1998 Ford Escort SE 4dr Wagon
98 SE Wagon. This has been a good economical vehicle. Simple interior design. 24 to 34 mpg. Scheduled maintenance routines were followed for normal usage. Fair to good handling in moderate snow conditions. Final assembly, U.S.A. (I purposely avoided the non-U.S.A. assemblies). Original tires, Uniroyal Tiger Paw, lasted 70K. OEM battery, 8 yrs. Uncomfortable seating on long drives.
Reliable & economical. Good exterior & interior apearance. No warranty issues. Competitive & reasonable cost.
Improve finish at weld points on roof area above rear doors. Rear suspension springs failed (broken at top ends) at about 25K (3+yrs.). Engine noise at hwy. speeds. Engine oil & filter change is more inconvenient if done by owner. Constant contol relay assy.& fuel pump assembly failed at 88k/10 yrs.