It is my understanding that the 2.0 Liter, SOHC engine is notorious for having problems that result in engine failure.
What is the most likely thing to go bad on them?
I had a 1993 Escort with the 1.9 in it and it was still running strong after over 222K and then I had a 1997 Escort with a 2.0 SOHC and the worst thing that happened to it was I had a valve lifter go bad on it. I had about 170K on that car before I got rid of it.
Thank you.
Marky B
A trusty reliability ratings website indicates that the differential pressure feedback EGR sensor is prone to failure. Also the fuel pump is known to fail, but is covered by a recall, 03N01. No mention of widespread engine failures. I also had a reliable Escort, it was an '89 that I drove for 300k miles before I sold it. Only problem was a little oil leak, but hey, all Ford products start leaking oil at some point!
All cars will develop leaks of one kind or another at some point. I know of a 1991 Chevy van that went over 500K before it blew a head gasket (and, I think its tranny was starting to go). This happened when it was 10 years old. This vehicle had regular maintenance on it.
I have a 2000 Ford Focus, and it started making a terrible noise in the engine. When I went to a garage and told them about the noise they immediately said, “Probably dropped a valve seat.” That is exactly what did happen. It must be a common problem if the dealer knows what is broke without even looking at it.
It is my understanding that the late 90s / early '00 2 liters apparently do have a nasty habit of dropping valve seats, as noted in a previous post.
My '97 Escort is going great at 220K - BUT at about 140K the engine failed (I put a used one in it) - I never got a true diagnosis, but having learned more by now, I’m guessing it was a valve seat.
But, there are other problems that might seem bad but aren’t. I recently thought my used engine was about to go (it was behaving oddly), but it turned out to be a chunk of loose carbon that was occasionally hanging up a valve.
If you have the '00 prepare for the worst, but assume the best and look for simpler things first.