Generation Hub

Ford Escort 1997-2003

1997–2003
Overview

The Ford Escort, produced from 1997 to 2003, marked a significant shift in design and technology from its predecessor. It was available in various body styles, including sedan, wagon, and hatchback, catering to various customer preferences. The exterior design showcased a more modern and aerodynamic profile, with rounded edges and contemporary styling cues. Inside, the cabin offered improved comfort and interior space, enhancing the driving experience. Safety features, such as dual airbags and antilock brakes, were standard or available, contributing to higher occupant protection.

In terms of technology, the 1997-2003 Ford Escort offered optional features like power windows, remote keyless entry, and a premium sound system, adding convenience and entertainment to the driving experience. The lineup featured efficient four-cylinder engines, delivering respectable fuel economy for its time. The Escort maintained a reputation for being a reliable and economical choice in the compact car segment. While it may not have been the most technologically advanced vehicle of its era, it provided a comfortable and practical option for drivers seeking a dependable daily driver or family car.

Specifications

Ford Escort specification, engine oil capacity, spark plug gap, safety rating, fuel consumption, transmission, and light bulb sizes.

Engine 2.0L 4-Cylinder DOHC

  • Recommended oil viscosity: 5W-20
  • Oil certification: API
  • Drain Plug Torque: 29.4-FT-LBS
  • Oil capacity: 4.5 quarts

Spark Plug Gap

  • 2.0L 4-Cylinder: 0.050”

Brake fluid

  • Type: High-Performance DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid/ ESA-M6C25-A and DOT 3
  • Capacity: Fill to the line in the reservoir

Coolant

  • Type: Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant (green-colored) or Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant (yellow-colored)
  • Capacity:
    • Automatic Transaxles: 6.0L (6.3 quarts)
    • Manual Transaxles: 5.0L (5.3 quarts)

Fuel

  • Capacity: 48.5L (12.8 gallons)

Power Steering Fluid

  • Type: Motorcraft MERCON ATF XT-2-QDX MERCON
  • Capacity: Fill to the line on the reservoir

Transmission Fluid

  • Type: Motorcraft MERCON ATF
  • Capacity
    • Automatic Transaxle: 3.9L (4.1 quarts)
    • Manual Transaxle: 3.35L (3.55 quarts)

Windshield Washer Fluid

  • Type: Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate ZC-32-A WSB-M8B16–A2
  • Capacity: 2.2L (2.32 quarts)

Door latch, hood latch, auxiliary hood latch, trunk latch, seat tracks

  • Type: Multi-Purpose Grease XG-4 or XL-5/ ESB-M1C93-B or  ESR-M1C159-A

Automatic Transaxle

  • Type: Motorcraft MERCON ATF XT-2-QDX/ MERCON

Manual Transaxle

  • Type: Motorcraft MERCON ATF XT-2-QDX MERCON

Constant Velocity Joint

  • Type: CV Joint Grease XG-5 WSS-M1C258–A1

Lock Cylinder

  • Type: Penetrating and Lock Lubricant/ XL-1

Powertrain

Engine

  • 1.3 L Endura-E I4
  • 1.4 L CVH-PTE I4
  • 1.6 L Zetec I4
  • 1.8 L Zetec I4
  • 2.0 L I4 DOHC
  • 1.8 L Endura D diesel I4
  • 1.8 L Endura D turbodiesel I4
  • 1.8 L Endura D TDDi I4.

Transmission

  • 5-speed manual
  • 3-speed automatic

Fuel Consumption

FORD ESCORT FUEL CONSUMPTION

Safety Ratings

Ford Escort Safety Ratings

Warning Lights & Bulb Sizes

Front Lights

  •  Front Fog Light Bulb: 881
  • Front Sidemarker Light Bulb: 194
  • Front Turn Signal Light Bulb:
    • 3157-SCK
    •  3457AK
  • High Beam and Low Beam Headlight Bulb: 9007LL

Rear Lights

  • ​​​​​​Back Up Light Bulb: 3156K
  • Brake Light Bulb
    • 3157-SCK
    • 3157K
  • Center High Mount Stop Light Bulb: 921
  • License Plate Light Bulb: 168
  • Parking Light Bulb:
    • 3157-SCK
    •  3457AK
  • Rear Sidemarker Light Bulb:
    • 3157-SCK
    •  3157K
  • Rear Turn Signal Light Bulb:
    • 3157-SCK
    •  3157K
  • Tail Light Bulb:
    • 3157-SCK
    •  3157K

Interior Lights

  • Dome Light Bulb:
    • 578
    • DE3175
  • Engine Compartment Light Bulb: 906
  • Glove Box Light Bulb: 194
  • Instrument Panel Light Bulb:
    • 161
    • 194
  • Map Light Bulb: 168
  • Trunk Light Bulb: 13050

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Recalls NHTSA
Make
Ford
Model
Escort

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