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:

• 

  Anything But Reliable - 1994 Ford Probe
  By sjj - June 9 - 2:00 am

  This car was great for the first few months. Everything worked fine. Once it got to about 100,000 miles everything just started falling apart. It needed new bearings, cv joints, mass air flow sensor, oxygen sensors, water pump, and belts. The complete brake system had to be replaced. The calipers, the lines, the pads and everything. It still needs a new clutch, and the transmission is really, really jerky in reverse. I know all of these repairs are common for higher milage cars, but $3,000+ in repairs in only 6 months is just outrageous. That is probably more then it is actually worth.

• 

  Bittersweet - 1995 Ford Mustang
  By NotSure - June 8 - 2:00 am

  While the stang is fun to drive the reliability of it is another thing. I have had to replace a head gasket and a sensor went out and at times it wouldnt start?! Transmission trouble as well. It has a great engine and the ride is good for a sports coupe.

• 

  2002 EXCURSION LIMITED - 2002 Ford Excursion
  By nbrooks1 - June 7 - 2:00 am

  I pull a 25 foot Airstream with my Ex. Acceleration and braking are excellent while towing. I like the idea of sitting up high and over-looking the traffic ahead. The overall ride is very good and the extra room inside my rig is great. This SUV is not for everyone, but it is perfect for my family.

• 

  Very Dependable - 1994 Ford Aerostar
  By valmomof2 - June 6 - 2:00 am

  This is a very dependable van. I have had this van for 8 years, 173,000 miles, and never broke down. Most dependable vehicle I have ever owned.

• 

  Great vehicle - 1994 Ford Ranger
  By DSNIDER - June 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive got to say that i have been very impressed in this vehicle. Ive never been big on fords but i will say that i wouldnt mind buying another one of their products. The only complaints ive had about the truck was when the transmission(5 speed) went out around 127,000 miles. I had it replaced for under $1000. Overall it gets good gas milage for a truck, its comfortable for what its made for, and it never left me stranded. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

• 

  The Truck that Drives like a car - 2001 Ford Escape
  By bdale - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Peppy V6. Drives like a car and not a truck, you feel the bumps a little more. Comfortable for long drives. Havent had a recall or need for repair. Back seat roomy. Dont care for the steps on the side, only serve to dirty your pants.

• 

  Surprisingly Peppy SUV - 2003 Ford Escape
  By drive2bfree - June 5 - 10:00 am

  In the "break-in" mode and so far the vehicle is surprisingly peppy and fun to drive. Enjoy the space and the 4x4 capability. The vehicle started to shimmyvibrate when over 65-70mph, but it seems it may have been the windy weather that day since it has not happened since. Will keep an eye on it, though.

• 

  It has been a dream Mini-SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By TinKan - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I have loved my Ford. Only problem has been the rear wiper motor. Clean comfortable and runs great. Still do not need brakes after 50k. Problem with a few lights out on left part of dash on select controls but no biggie. Ford replaced my tires for free and it was not even in the recall. They even replaced the spare.

• 

  Solid Truck - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Vinguy - June 5 - 10:00 am

  We bought this vehicle used and it has performed well. We wanted a heavy (this one weighs in at 5,000 lb) vehicle that would be crash worthy and weight is king of physics you know. Drives expectedly. Opted for the V8 and AWD because you never know and who can pass up the rumble of Fords 302 ci engine? It has been reliable with no mechanical aggravation. Its clear why there are so many on the road. Affordable to purchase and own.

• 

  2003 Screw 4wd XLT 5.4L - 2003 Ford F-150
  By firstford - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I usually buy imorts, as I drive vehicles until they die. But with two kids we just needed the extra room. Our maiden weekend voyage allowed us to pack everything from food to strollers. Got 17.5 mpg on our first tank(5.4L) which is close to what I get with my 93 Pathfinder - but this has way more power. Rides great on the highway.