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:

• 

  Too early to tell - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Patrick - January 31 - 11:43 pm

  Living in CA with the high gas prices, I traded my import SUV in for my first domestic vehicle. I did much research prior to deciding to buy this 500 but so far its still too early to tell. I bought mine used with 8k miles for almost $10k less than a new one. Its already been in the shop once for a power steering pump replacement. I went out of the country for two weeks, came back, started it up and heard a big loud boom sound (happened only once) when the engine cranked. The engine in adequate but not great. Interior noise is low and driving it is a breeze. Hopefully nothing else will turn up. Thank goodness for the 3 year/ 36k warranty. I wouldnt have bought it without that!

• 

  Ford Escape - 2006 Ford Escape
  By Doretta Clevenger - January 31 - 9:05 pm

  Ashtrays should remain an option. There is a perfect spot for one but now is just a hole in console. Not much room between the door and the seat adjuster. Good thing we dont have large arms. Geared just a little high for driving in hill country.

• 

  Explorer, not too shabby! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By packer kp - January 31 - 1:37 pm

  I love the comfort of the XLT, I think they look sharp also. I am not impressed with the city mileage 13.5 to 14 mpg. I have had it in twice for warranty tranny work so that scares me sometimes it takes a second to engage when putting it in gear. Overall I would say I am pleased as long as the tranny holds up.

• 

  Ford Ranger Centennial Model - 2000 Ford Ranger
  By Woody - January 31 - 10:25 am

  This truck has been excellent, in all conditions. It has been in the deserts of Arizona, the mountains of Utah, and winters in western New York. It has never had a maintenance problem, is fun to drive, and delivered on the promises by Ford. Its gas mileage is not a plus, but it has a 4 liter V6. The engine is German-made and rock solid. The truck now has over 100,000 miles and still looks and runs like new.

• 

  Sleeper Sports Car - 1995 Ford Probe
  By runninwiththedevil - January 31 - 12:17 am

  Gorgeous curves, power to spare, reliable as an anvil, the 5 speed Probe GT has been a sheer delight to own and drive. 135,000 trouble free miles thus far. A true enthusiasts car, will be sad to let this one go for family considerations.

• 

  Ford Ranger High Mileage - 2001 Ford Ranger
  By John - January 30 - 11:07 am

  This is my third Ranger in 20 years. All of them have been very durable and low maintenance. My last truck had 386,000 on the original engine and was driven over 100 miles a day up to the day I bought the 2001. The only issues with the new truck have been: 1) Replacing a sensor at 30,000 no charge. 2) Replacing original tires at 68,000. 3) Replacing the transmission valve body at 90,000 - $600. Front brakes $155 4) Replacing a seat belt sensor at 120,000 - $200.

• 

  outdated - 2006 Ford Ranger
  By cheap deal - January 29 - 10:39 pm

  Price was the main reason for purchasing. Good deals on outdated size and style. Back seats only good for small children or putting cargo in. Ride isnt bad for small truck, but when empty very choppy on rough roads.

• 

  keeps on truckin - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By jaykva - January 29 - 1:43 pm

  Just spent the day looking at newer, used SUVs and this 93 XLT remains with us. At 175K miles moved from DC to New Mexico, loaded down with stuff, dogs and clamshell on roof and got 21 MPG (cruise set on 70). Tranny died a week later, but thats to be expected (hey, it got us here!). $1800 rebuild was worth it. Still leaks no oil at 186K miles. Sure, the gas gauge has never worked, but thats about my only complaint, use the trip meter. Put new tires on it and rides much better. Original A/C compressor still works. Should go 250K for me or someone else, easily. Compared with newer Acura and Trooper SUVs and it wasnt much of an upgrade to spend between $6K-$10K more on a newer, used SUV.

• 

  Black HB Mustang - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Tim Hund - January 29 - 2:00 am

  Smooth power, agile handling, smart styling and low price makes me feel good about the purchase of my Black Mustang

• 

  My Troublesome Taurus - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By Davarna Rainbolt - January 28 - 3:26 am

  I bought this SES with a DOHC engine used in 03. It currently has 104,000 miles on it as I drive a lot. Ive had problems like other reviews. Replaced two oxygen sensors at 70,000 miles. Torque converter on the transmission went bad and then a sensor went bad causing a problem that appeared to be the transmission again at 100,000 miles. One window has never worked -- wont pay $200 to fix it. Has new tires and alignment -- still seems to vibrate, lots of wind noise. Looks very sporty and has a powerful engine when running right but I have little faith in this car since it has been undependable compared to other cars Ive owned. Depreciated so fast Im stuck with it for awhile -- hope the troubles are over!