Faults:

The transmission went out with only 46,777 miles on it.

We have also had problem with the anti lock break sensor.

General Comments:

I think the make and model of this car has serious transmission problems. I can't see how a transmission can go out with such low miles. We were told by the dealer that it has internal problems. They want to charge us $3000.00 dollars to install a rebuild one that is only guaranteed for 3 years or 36,000 miles. That's more than the car is worth not to mention I still owe quite a bit on it. I've read on your site that we are not the only ones that have had problems like these. From what I have read, the transmissions go out in between 30,000 and 50,000 miles. That doesn't sound much better then what I'm dealing with now. Does that sound like a dependable car to you? Who knows what will go wrong next.

This is my only transportation that I have back and forth to work. I drive 40 miles round trip a day and I need a dependable car.

We have spoken to Ford and they tell us that it is not there problem. Someone from Ford needs to step up to the plate and take a good look at these transmissions and take some sort of responsibility. Times are hard and people can't afford to dish out $3000.00.

Faults:

- replaced left outer tie rod @ 58000km under warranty

- repaired broken wires for rear defrost @ ~50000km

- rust on door pillars removed by body shop under warranty

- brakes (pad, rotors, etc) @ ~75000km

- replaced right front and left rear door actuators (for remote-controlled locks) @ 75000km

- replaced rear wiring and connects on back hatch.

General Comments:

Overall this is a reliable little car. It's handling is predictable in snow and the specially ordered ABS works flawlessly. I agree that on long rides it's not the most comfortable car, but I find that the discomfort can be mitigated by using an after-market obus form.

The car uses between between 7L and 8.5L/100km, depending on the mix of highway to city driving.

The paint is not great -- we have many stone chips in different places. An aftermarket hood deflector has helped in this area. Also watch out for rust forming on door pillars, even if you rust-proof your vehicle.