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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  Full of problems - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By not happy - November 2 - 1:45 pm

  I bought my truck 2 years ago and have had nothing but problems with it. Third day I had it all of the gauges stopped working then countless electrical issues. Many problems with the suspension. This truck only has 78,000 miles on it but feels and drives like one with over 200,000 miles on it. Very unhappy with his purchase will never buy another one again.

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  Ford wins - 2014 Ford F-150
  By Jerremy Guthrie - November 1 - 11:13 pm

  I bought this 2014 5.0 Ford truck new. This truck will not disappoint! Its hardest than the 2015 new body, no beer can aluminum body, this body looks and feels solid. Its the last year model of this body style. If you want a truck that doesnt look like a Lego toy, and will hold up to everything then this truck is def the year model.

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  Mixed feelings - 2005 Ford Escape
  By Dwayne C - November 1 - 2:03 pm

  We started having transmission problems at 20,000 miles. It would shift hard at around 40 MPH.We took it in (not at purchasing dealership)about ten times before they finally changed the transmission. I argued with the transmission mechanic that it was not right.They tried something different each time it was brought in. They adjusted the linkage, changed the spark plugs, changed the radiator, new torque converter, etc before changing the transmission. By this time the warranty was off and they wanted me to pay for it. After lots of arguing the dealer helped cover the cost above what Ford payed.There was 30,000 miles on the vehicle by the time this was done. Been running good ever since.

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  City Boy Truck - 2006 Ford F-150
  By howard - November 1 - 1:51 pm

  I use this truck for towing jet and ski boats, four wheelers, snow mobiles and often have a four wheeler in the bed. About 20,000 miles into this truck the brakes went bad and Ford told me, "I drive the truck wrong," and did not stand by their product. I have 2 other friends one has a 07 Ford F-150 and his brakes are going out as well and the other friend has a 2005 and has replaced the brakes 3 times. Brakes on these trucks are terrible. My rotors are shot and it about jumps off the road everytime I stop. I would not recommend this truck to anyone that actually uses a truck for pulling and hauling. I cant wait for my lease to be up so I can get out. The truck looks good and thats it.

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  Awesome Van - 2000 Ford Econoline Wagon
  By Excellent Van - November 1 - 4:26 am

  We bought this van six years ago and have thoroughly enjoyed it. It not only carries a large number of people, but it has been extremely reliable.

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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Danny - November 1 - 3:53 am

  I never thought I would buy a new car, but with zero percent financing and Ford incentives, I had no choice. The car is fantastic. I recently went on a 700 mile (11.5 hour) trip to North Carolina and I couldnt be more pleased. The versatility was incredible. I traveled with my wife and dog (full lab); (2 suit cases, 3 carry-on size bags, a back pack, dog kennel, cooler, etc.) and the dog had the entire back set to herself. We met two other couples there and went on a day journey and the three rows of seating couldnt have been better. The guy who sat in the back was 6 and said he was plenty comfortable. We drove with two stops each way and I was not the least bet cramped. 22+mpg and excellent ride.

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  One year later, still love it - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Brendan - November 1 - 1:16 am

  Previous review 21/1/07 - "Great car, so-so mileage on AWD". Almost one year later, still love this car at 29000 miles. Hugely comfortable. Noticing the climate control buttons take a little too much attention to operate (small buttons, big fingers). Would prefer some dials for mode selection. Had rear brakes replaced at 24K - common problem. Thats the only problem though. Mileage has improved as Ive learned how to drive it (i.e. - relax!). Getting 18 city and 24-27 on freeway, depending on speed (27 at 60, 24 at 70). Carry 6 people to lunch on regular basis. Trip from WA to CO was a huge success with lots of room and no driver fatigue. Still feels/smells new to me.

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  Ford forever - 2008 Ford F-150
  By chuck - November 1 - 1:04 am

  The King Ranch surpassed my expectations with its option packages, more than my 04 Lariat. Ride is comfortable and fun to drive, power is responsive even with a half ton in the bed. Quiet interior when traveling on a variety of road surfaces

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  Excellent Truck - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Pete - October 31 - 10:10 pm

  I have been pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy this truck. It feels very solid, and is very quiet in all driving conditions. I was surprised when I got 18+ mpg on a trip I recently took. It is a comfortable and fun truck to drive. The supercrew has plenty of interior room when driving the family around, and can haul or carry construction related material with ease. I find the truck to have more than enough power. The power sunroof is huge ,and it feels like Im in a convertible with all of the windows, the sunroof and rear slider open on a warm sunny day.

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  Fun Days Are Here Again!!!!! - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Mike 777 In RI 02920 - October 31 - 9:10 pm

  Just bought it today! WOW!!! Torch Red and the new "PONY" edition! What a head turner!! The exhuast sounds like a V-8! Having the dual white racing strips put on! Super ride for a convertible. This will be a Classic for sure.