Faults:

Both lower ball joints needed instant replacement.

Exhaust from cat to muffler had to be replaced at 85k miles.

Brakes wear quickly.

Makes the most terrible noise driving over bumps. Not sure what it is, but it sounds like something's very loose. Please help me there, if you can.

Tires wear quick up front.

Back windshield wiper stopped working 2 days ago for some unknown reason.

Paint peels, even though I've had it professionally re-painted.

Had to replace all four struts with new quick struts.

General Comments:

I don't mind the car, even with the aforementioned problems listed. I've had 3 Ford Escorts in my short driving career, and the others were just terrible (95 wagon, and 99 sedan). This one seems to be somewhat reliable, but the problem is when I go over bumps at speed (50-65 mph), it makes a terrible clunking sound. Also when I'm going around 40 mph, the sound is VERY noticeable and doesn't go away until I increase my speed, which doesn't feel comforting.

Other than that, got it at a good price and have put in the necessary parts for replacement. Has anyone encountered this noise before?

Please help me!

Faults:

The fuel pump had a problem when we got the car. It would take a few tries to get the car running. Starts right up since it is fixed.

Flex pipe clamp broke recently, and seems like an easy and cheap fix.

There are 2 rust spots (one under the driver's door, and another under where you put the gas in). They started after the car was 11-12 years old.

General Comments:

It is not the most comfortable car, but thinking of its size, it is just fine for me.

She handles very good and is very responsive. Overall, I am pretty happy. I have 205/50/15 performance tires on it, but it's still very good on snow or in the rain.

Very good on gas and very cheap maintenance.

Faults:

It's like a smokescreen everytime we drive somewhere, considering this car has a smoking habit.

Leaks oil 24/7.

Car just hours ago got towed to the shop for having a destroyed timing belt.

General Comments:

Honestly, this car is like an army tank with an engine. Heck, a machine gun couldn't even leave a dent in this car. Though it does seem to have a cigarette addiction (it smokes like crazy), it has not once left me stranded. This was formerly my dad's car, and once it escapes the shop, it's all mine. I remember driving through a forest fire on my way to Olympia, and not a singe. Talk about bulletproof.

Amongst other things, the car has an awesome stock stereo system. I was at first considering replacing it with a Monsoon, but I would just be chasing gremlins having to hook it up to the car.

Escorts, typically this generation, are known for their weak engines. Just a few hours ago, the car got towed to the shop for having a busted belt.

Other than that, it is surprisingly roomy. I can fit my entire drum set in the back seat. Seriously though, this car is like Kenny from South Park. IT NEVER DIES.