Quiz: how well do you know your Ford Escort?

21 questions. After each answer you get a short explanation and a link to the manual page that covers it in detail.

On Escort models with a wing-mounted washer reservoir, which other pump draws fluid from the same reservoir?
Headlamp washer pump. The wing-mounted reservoir under the left front wing also feeds the headlamp washer pump. It is held by bolts at the top and two lower bolts reached from the wheel arch. Wash/wipe system components - removal and refitting

In humid weather, which heater mode should you select before driving to reduce windscreen fogging?
Defrost. Select Defrost before driving in humid weather, then switch to any mode once the screen is clear. Also, avoid driving with the system OFF, which lets humidity build up. Heater only system (if equipped)

Headlamps stay bright and there is no solenoid click when you turn the key to start. Where does the fault lie?
In the circuit or solenoid. Bright lamps with no click point to the circuit or solenoid. If the lamps dim when starting, current reaches the starter, so the starter is at fault. Corroded connections are a common culprit. Starter motor - testing in the car

On Escort CFI engines, what collects petrol vapours from the fuel tank while the car is parked?
A charcoal canister. A charcoal canister stores the vapours and releases them through the purge solenoid valve, controlled by the electronic control unit, into the inlet tract to be burned. General information

Before removing the Escort handbrake lever, what must you do with the front wheels and rear of the car?
Chock front wheels, raise rear on stands. Chock the front wheels, support the rear on stands, then release the handbrake. The primary cable comes off the equaliser by removing a clip and clevis pin. Handbrake lever - removal and refitting

If the brake warning light stays on after you release the parking brake, what does it indicate?
Low brake fluid level. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid and needs immediate inspection. Driving with it on can mean much longer stopping distances. Instrument Cluster

When testing the Escort's mechanical fuel pump, what should you see from the open inlet pipe while cranking?
Regular well-defined spurts of fuel. Disconnect the LT lead from the coil negative so the engine doesn't fire. No spurts with fuel in the tank means renewal, as the pump is sealed and can't be repaired. Fuel pump - testing, removal and refitting

How should you set up to check the automatic transmission fluid level on an Escort?
Warm, level ground, idling, selector in P. Check at operating temperature, on level ground with handbrake on, idling after cycling the selector through all positions three times and returning to P. The level must stay between MIN and MAX. Automatic transmission fluid level check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)

What is Ford Extended Service Plan (ESP)?
An optional service contract covering repairs after warranty. Ford ESP is an optional service contract protecting against covered repair costs after the Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty expires, with towing and rental benefits too. Customer Assistance

Why shouldn't you leave the audio system on for a long time with the engine off?
It can discharge the battery. Long use with the engine not running can discharge the battery. Also, if an FM signal weakens, reception switches from stereo to mono and the ST indicator goes out. AM/FM radio with compact disc player

What is the Escort's wheelbase for Saloon, Estate and Cabriolet?
2402 mm. Saloon, Estate and Cabriolet share a 2402 mm wheelbase, while the Van is longer at 2501 mm. Dimensions and Weights

How often should the wiper blades be replaced for optimum performance?
Every 6 months. Replace blades every 6 months. The new blade is pressed onto the arm until it clicks. Multi-function lever

A heater matrix in the Escort is blocked. What is the recommended way to try clearing it?
Reverse flush with a cold water hose. A blocked matrix can sometimes be cleared by reverse flushing with cold water; avoid searching chemical cleaners. A leaking matrix is best replaced, as home repairs seldom work. Heater matrix - removal and refitting

A headlamp aim bubble is off-centre. When should you actually adjust the aim?
Only when the beam direction looks incorrect. A off-centre bubble doesn't necessarily mean misaimed lamps, since a sloping surface affects it. Adjust only if the beam seems wrong, using a 4 mm wrench or socket. Headlamp control

Before removing the timing belt, where should the crankshaft pulley notch be aligned?
The TDC (0) mark on the belt cover scale. Turn the crankshaft until the notch meets TDC (0). With a distributor, the rotor arm should point at the No 1 cylinder segment; if at No 4, turn one more full turn. Timing belt - removal, refitting and adjustment

What share of the trailer's total weight should be on the tongue when towing with this Escort?
10-15%. Distribute the load so 10-15% of trailer weight sits on the tongue. Towing is limited to 454 kg, and safety chains must go to the hitch, never the bumper. Trailer towing

What is the maximum speed with a temporary spare tire fitted?
80 km/h. Do not exceed 80 km/h on a temporary spare, and avoid automatic car washes because of the reduced ground clearance. Replace it with a full-size tire soon. Changing the tires

Which product should you avoid when washing the Escort's paint?
Dish washing liquid. Strong household detergents like dish or laundry liquid can discolor and spot paint. Also never wash a vehicle that's hot to the touch or in strong direct sun. Cleaning

After refitting the fuel pressure regulator on the 1.6 EFI, what should you do to check for leaks?
Switch ignition on and off five times without cranking. Switch the ignition on and off five times without cranking, then check for fuel leaks. A new sealing ring is required on refitting. Fuel pressure regulator - removal and refitting

Where should the head restraint be positioned?
Directly or as close as possible behind your head. The restraint limits head motion in a rear collision, so adjust it directly behind the head. Also, reclining the seatback can let you slide under the belt in a crash. Seating

When depressurising the CFI fuel system, what must you do while loosening the inlet union?
Hold the union flats with an open-ended spanner. Hold the inlet union on the CFI unit with a second spanner so it can't turn, and let pressure dissipate before unscrewing. The system stays pressurised after engine off. Fuel system - depressurising

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