FORD ESCORT MOT Statistics by Year
Select a model year to see detailed MOT results; including pass rates, mileage trends, and the most common defects found for that specific FORD ESCORT.
Defect rate by model year
The Ford Escort, a staple in the automotive landscape since its launch in the early 1970s, has garnered a reputation for being a reliable and practical compact car. Initially introduced to cater to the growing demand for affordable family vehicles, the Escort quickly became popular due to its blend of affordability, functionality, and relatively straightforward maintenance. Over the years, it has undergone various redesigns, maintaining its status as a go-to choice for many drivers.
Examining the reliability of the Ford Escort through MOT inspection data reveals a generally favorable performance compared to the average for cars of the same era. For instance, in its debut year of 1972, the Escort had a defect rate of 59 defects per 100 tests, significantly lower than the average defect rate of 135 for its contemporaries, marking it as an impressive -56% relative to the average. This trend continues in subsequent years, with the 1973 model showing a defect rate of 49, again outperforming the average of 134. Notably, the 1974 Escort had an even more remarkable defect rate of 30, reflecting a -74% difference from the average, indicating a peak in reliability during these early years.
However, the reliability narrative shifts in the later years of the 1980s and 1990s. By 1983, the Escort's defect rate climbed to 69, still below the average of 180, but the performance began to show signs of wear. The mid-1990s saw a rise in defect rates, peaking in 1996 with a rate of 269 against an average of 330, indicating a decline in reliability. Notably, recurring issues such as brake pipe corrosion and tyre wear were prevalent across many years, suggesting that while the Escort generally performed well, certain maintenance challenges were common among vehicles of this age.
Did you know?
Despite the fluctuations in reliability, the Ford Escort remains a significant model in automotive history, known for its durability and ease of repair. Its long-standing reputation was bolstered by a strong presence in motorsport, particularly in rallying, where it showcased its performance capabilities. Today, the Escort is often celebrated among classic car enthusiasts, adding a layer of nostalgia to its legacy as a reliable compact car.