Overview & Reviews

For more than 100 years now, Ford Motor Company has been selling mass-produced automobiles in the United States and around the globe. Known as one of the Big Three American manufacturers, Ford has attracted millions of loyal customers with a wide range of vehicles that offer considerable value. The automaker's trucks and SUVs have been especially popular. For decades, Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America.

The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford dreamed of building a car for the masses, and that's precisely what he did, most notably with the immortal Model T of 1908-'27. The latter was bought by 16.5 million Americans during its 20-year lifespan and was affordable enough for Ford's own factory workers to purchase. Ford's early years were also distinguished by its introduction of the moving assembly line. It was the first to utilize this more cost-effective method of production, and its innovation became a mainstay of the manufacturing process.

Ford expanded into the luxury-car market with its purchase of Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Over the next few years, the company broadened its focus even further by creating the Mercury division to produce mid-priced cars. By the late '30s, Ford had unveiled the stylish Lincoln Zephyr, introduced a low-priced V8 engine and built more than 25 million vehicles.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the legendary Thunderbird. Offering sleek styling and spirited performance wedded to available luxury features like power windows and a signal-seeking radio, the car was a huge hit. Another model of that decade, the Edsel, met with a somewhat less enthusiastic reception. In the wake of abysmal sales, the Edsel was discontinued just a few months into its third model year.

Ford regained its footing in the early 1960s with the introduction of the compact Falcon, a model that was warmly received by the public. By the middle of the decade the automaker had given enthusiasts something to cheer about with the launch of the sporty Mustang, a car that went on to become one of the biggest sellers of its day. Buyers adored the Mustang's low price, available powerful V8 engines and sporty styling. The Mustang even created a brand-new vehicle category: the pony car.

By the 1970s, Ford, like other domestic automakers, was starting to suffer the effects of changing consumer tastes and new government regulations. Many of its cars became shadows of their former selves. But the seeds of rebirth were planted in this decade. In 1979, the company acquired a stake in Mazda; this move would later aid Ford significantly in co-development projects. The company also emerged with a new mindset of global competitiveness.

By the mid-to-late '80s, Ford was showing new strength with its popular Escort and Taurus models while further expanding its empire with the purchase of the Aston Martin and Jaguar brands. Meanwhile, its full-size LTD sedan (later renamed the Crown Victoria) remained a staple of taxi companies and police forces throughout America.

Ford rode a wave of popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to the huge success of its Explorer midsize SUV. The truck played a huge role in ushering in the era of the SUV. In 1999, Ford expanded its family yet again with the purchase of Volvo's car division, and, in 2000, it acquired Land Rover. For awhile, there was talk of Ford even taking General Motors' spot as the No. 1 automaker in the world.

But the new millennium initially saw a downturn for Ford. Increased competition, a continuing operating loss for Jaguar, legacy costs and a reliance on SUVs for profit took their toll. To compensate, the company sold Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo and introduced a wave of successful new products. Models like the F-150, Fusion, Fiesta, Focus, Flex and Mustang have allowed Ford to regain its health and standing as a very competitive manufacturer.

User Reviews:

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  NO PROBLEM HERE 186 K LATER - 2001 Ford Windstar
  By Steve - August 27 - 10:58 pm

  Thats right I got almost 186,000 miles on my van.I wont bore you with details but I got maybe about $600 in mechanical maintenance in it.Also Needed the usual stuff (brakes ,oil changes,tires).I can tell you this much, the biggest secret that I learned from my brotherinlaw is change the transmission fluids early .These ford transmissions are delicate, needless to say I have changed the transmission fluid twice and thinking about doing it again(Yup Original Trans).It did need a small map sensor ($60) and a coil pack I think they are about $80.It has yet to get a wheel alignment still drives straight .I drive this car all over united states and I haul heavy car parts with it !

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  Great small truck - 2009 Ford Ranger
  By gen contractor - August 27 - 6:47 pm

  Bought a used xl longbed,2.3with 5spd. manual. As a 60 yr.old man, 6tall, 250 lbs., I find this vehicle a solid buy and a solid performer. Its no frills, but peppy, frugal, and very tight. The design may be old but its sure as hell not dated. A great value.

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  1 Year - 2008 Ford Escape
  By Mz.Marina - August 27 - 10:42 am

  I bought my escape a year ago. Have put extensive miles on it without any problems whatsoever. Only regular maintenance which is key to maintaining a vehicle. Will keep an eye on the tranny after reading these reviews...but other than that cute fun suv.

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  Cash for Clunkers purchase - 2010 Ford Edge
  By Suzanne - August 27 - 9:29 am

  I just bought a Ltd AWD. Im very happy with the car. Ive not noticed any of the poor braking distances that consumer reports mentions, but Im not a tailgater either. I am getting about 20mpg on average. I think this is a lot of car for the money. The features, design and comfort are all very high for the money. The next tier choice up in pricing for a crossover just doesnt offer that much more to justify the pricing. This is a lot of car for the money and is solidly built and well designed. You can feel the shifting though when you step on the gas on the highway to pass. Pickup is fine for me, but if you are really into power, the weight is pushing the need for a V8 - but still good.

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  I Love My Blue Baby - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Adgurl - August 27 - 8:27 am

  I bought my Explorer new in 2001 -- started as a lease and I decided to keep. After 208000 miles Ive never had any major problems, until now. Have to get the crankshaft pulley replaced. I plan to keep this car FOREVER. I love my Explorer.

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  Glad to go green - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By thor59 - August 27 - 8:20 am

  Traded in a 2005 Turbo Diesel for the Hybrid. Best decision Ive made in a long time. Actually got 41 miles to the gallon in the city yesterday. Quite a difference from fifteen. Ill never buy anything but a hybrid again. Love the Ford, totally impressed, get one.

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  Living in the Edge - 2011 Ford Edge
  By Sam Gallucci - August 26 - 7:45 pm

  Excellent vehicle that drives well accelerates well with great comfort.

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  I love this Ford! - 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
  By James G. King - August 26 - 2:00 am

  jUST AN AWESOME VEHICLE! a LOT OF THOUGHT WENT INTO DESIGNING THIS VEHICLE!

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  Great Vehicle - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By DK - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had it 3 1/2 years and have 51,000 miles on it and have had ZERO problems.The vehicle averages about 16mpg in the city and 20mpg on the highway.It is the best vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  evons ride - 1999 Ford Ranger
  By evon - August 26 - 2:00 am

  overall the truck is great. i have had only one problem with the truck. it rides real smooth. the seats are comfortable (even on long rides). i would buy a ranger again....:)