The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon, part of the fourth generation of the Escort line (1991-2003), was a popular compact station wagon known for its practicality and affordability.
Offered in various trims like the LX and SE, its production spanned from 1981 to 2003 globally, with the wagon body style being a consistent favorite. It stood out for its straightforward design, fuel efficiency, and ample cargo space for its class, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Offered in various trims like the LX and SE, its production spanned from 1981 to 2003 globally, with the wagon body style being a consistent favorite. It stood out for its straightforward design, fuel efficiency, and ample cargo space for its class, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious families and individuals.
The Good
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon offered a strong value proposition with its reliable powertrain, good fuel economy, and practical cargo capacity. Its comfortable ride and straightforward design appealed to those seeking dependable, no-frills transportation, while its affordable price point resonated with budget-minded buyers.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon include potential transmission issues, particularly with automatic transmissions, and a tendency for rust in certain climate conditions. Interior materials might show wear and tear over time, and some owners report less refined road manners compared to some rivals.
1998 Ford Escort Wagon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon typically came with a choice of two main engines:
- 1.8L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder Zetec engine: This was the more performance-oriented option.
- 2.0L SOHC 8-valve 4-cylinder SPI engine: This was the base engine, prioritizing fuel economy.
- 1.8L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder Zetec engine: This was the more performance-oriented option.
- Horsepower:
- The 1.8L Zetec engine generally produced around 118-127 horsepower.
- The 2.0L SPI engine typically offered around 110-114 horsepower.
- The 1.8L Zetec engine generally produced around 118-127 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA estimates for the 1998 Escort Wagon varied depending on the engine and transmission, but generally ranged from approximately 22-25 MPG in the city and 28-32 MPG on the highway. Manual transmissions usually offered slightly better mileage.
- EPA estimates for the 1998 Escort Wagon varied depending on the engine and transmission, but generally ranged from approximately 22-25 MPG in the city and 28-32 MPG on the highway. Manual transmissions usually offered slightly better mileage.
- 0-60 Times:
- Estimates for 0-60 mph acceleration typically ranged from 10 to 12 seconds, depending on the engine and load.
- Estimates for 0-60 mph acceleration typically ranged from 10 to 12 seconds, depending on the engine and load.
- Towing Capacity:
- The Ford Escort Wagon was not designed for significant towing. Its towing capacity was minimal, generally suited for very light loads like small trailers, if at all.
- The Ford Escort Wagon was not designed for significant towing. Its towing capacity was minimal, generally suited for very light loads like small trailers, if at all.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX Trim: Typically included power windows and door locks, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo.
- SE Trim: Often added premium cloth seats, upgraded interior trim, and possibly a CD player.
- Optional features could include a sunroof, alloy wheels, and cruise control.
- LX Trim: Typically included power windows and door locks, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo.
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Escort Wagon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Speed Manual |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Small Station Wagon |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | HERMOSILLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2571 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 53.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 172.70 inches |
| Overall Width | 67.00 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 98.40 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L L-4 SOHC 8V |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $13,930 |
| Invoice Price | $12,996 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon Have?
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon, like many vehicles of its era, had its share of common issues reported by owners. One of the most frequently cited problems revolves around the automatic transmission. Some owners experienced premature failure, rough shifting, or slipping gears, especially with higher mileage vehicles. This could be a significant and costly repair.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump issues have been reported, which can lead to overheating if not addressed promptly. The ignition system could also be problematic, with issues like spark plug misfires or coil pack failures contributing to rough running engines.
Rust is a perennial concern for vehicles from this period, and the Escort Wagon is no exception, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Areas to inspect carefully include the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage. The suspension components, such as ball joints and tie rod ends, can also wear out over time, leading to clunks, rattles, and vague steering.
While there were no widespread, model-year-specific recalls that drastically impacted the 1998 Escort Wagon's overall reputation, individual vehicles may have had minor recalls for components like airbags or seatbelts. Long-term reliability can be significantly influenced by maintenance. Vehicles that were regularly serviced, especially with fluid changes for the transmission and coolant, tended to fare better. However, the inherent design of some components, particularly the automatic transmission, meant that a higher propensity for issues existed compared to some more robust competitors.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump issues have been reported, which can lead to overheating if not addressed promptly. The ignition system could also be problematic, with issues like spark plug misfires or coil pack failures contributing to rough running engines.
Rust is a perennial concern for vehicles from this period, and the Escort Wagon is no exception, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Areas to inspect carefully include the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage. The suspension components, such as ball joints and tie rod ends, can also wear out over time, leading to clunks, rattles, and vague steering.
While there were no widespread, model-year-specific recalls that drastically impacted the 1998 Escort Wagon's overall reputation, individual vehicles may have had minor recalls for components like airbags or seatbelts. Long-term reliability can be significantly influenced by maintenance. Vehicles that were regularly serviced, especially with fluid changes for the transmission and coolant, tended to fare better. However, the inherent design of some components, particularly the automatic transmission, meant that a higher propensity for issues existed compared to some more robust competitors.
How long will the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a well-maintained 1998 Ford Escort Wagon can reasonably achieve between 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and sometimes even more, serving its owners for 10 to 15 years.
Long-term durability is highly dependent on consistent maintenance, particularly for the automatic transmission and cooling system, which are known weak points. Vehicles that received regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and coolant checks are more likely to last longer and avoid costly repairs. However, even with diligent care, components like the suspension and exhaust system will eventually require attention due to age and wear. Early attention to rust can also significantly extend its usable lifespan.
Long-term durability is highly dependent on consistent maintenance, particularly for the automatic transmission and cooling system, which are known weak points. Vehicles that received regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and coolant checks are more likely to last longer and avoid costly repairs. However, even with diligent care, components like the suspension and exhaust system will eventually require attention due to age and wear. Early attention to rust can also significantly extend its usable lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon offered a basic suite of technology and safety features typical for its class and era, focusing on practicality over advanced amenities.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio. Higher trims or optional packages might have added a cassette player or a single-disc CD player, providing rudimentary audio playback. Speaker systems were generally modest, suitable for everyday listening.
Driver-Assistance Features: Advanced driver-assistance systems were virtually non-existent in the 1998 Escort Wagon. Features like cruise control were available as an option on some trims, but modern aids such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were often optional and not standard across all models. Power steering was standard, providing a lighter feel for maneuverability.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included front airbags and three-point seatbelts for all occupants. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included to tighten the belts during a collision. As mentioned, ABS was an optional feature on some models, enhancing braking control during emergency stops.
Optional Features: Beyond cruise control and upgraded audio, optional features could include power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims, adding a touch of convenience.
Crash-Test Ratings: Information on specific crash-test ratings for the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon can be difficult to find in comprehensive detail today, as testing methodologies and reporting have evolved significantly. However, vehicles from this era generally performed adequately in frontal and side impacts for their time. It's advisable to check resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) archives or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for any available data, though detailed ratings for this specific model year may be limited.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio. Higher trims or optional packages might have added a cassette player or a single-disc CD player, providing rudimentary audio playback. Speaker systems were generally modest, suitable for everyday listening.
Driver-Assistance Features: Advanced driver-assistance systems were virtually non-existent in the 1998 Escort Wagon. Features like cruise control were available as an option on some trims, but modern aids such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were often optional and not standard across all models. Power steering was standard, providing a lighter feel for maneuverability.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included front airbags and three-point seatbelts for all occupants. Seatbelt pretensioners were also included to tighten the belts during a collision. As mentioned, ABS was an optional feature on some models, enhancing braking control during emergency stops.
Optional Features: Beyond cruise control and upgraded audio, optional features could include power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims, adding a touch of convenience.
Crash-Test Ratings: Information on specific crash-test ratings for the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon can be difficult to find in comprehensive detail today, as testing methodologies and reporting have evolved significantly. However, vehicles from this era generally performed adequately in frontal and side impacts for their time. It's advisable to check resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) archives or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for any available data, though detailed ratings for this specific model year may be limited.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon had a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) that typically ranged from approximately $14,000 to $18,000, depending on the trim level and optional equipment. This positioned it as a very affordable option in the compact wagon segment.
Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Ford Escort Wagon are considerably lower, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, with the condition, mileage, and specific trim being the primary determinants. Depreciation on the Escort Wagon was significant, as is typical for most non-luxury vehicles of its age. Factors affecting its current resale value include the presence of rust, the mechanical condition of the engine and transmission, and overall cosmetic wear. A well-preserved, low-mileage example might command a slightly higher price, but it remains a budget-oriented used vehicle.
Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Ford Escort Wagon are considerably lower, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, with the condition, mileage, and specific trim being the primary determinants. Depreciation on the Escort Wagon was significant, as is typical for most non-luxury vehicles of its age. Factors affecting its current resale value include the presence of rust, the mechanical condition of the engine and transmission, and overall cosmetic wear. A well-preserved, low-mileage example might command a slightly higher price, but it remains a budget-oriented used vehicle.
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon is generally considered an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age, lower replacement value, and common safety features. Fuel costs are also manageable, given its respectable fuel efficiency.
Maintenance costs are moderate; routine upkeep like oil changes and tire rotations are inexpensive. However, potential repairs, particularly to the automatic transmission or cooling system, can add to ownership expenses. Despite these occasional repair concerns, the overall long-term cost of ownership remains relatively low, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals seeking practical transportation.
Maintenance costs are moderate; routine upkeep like oil changes and tire rotations are inexpensive. However, potential repairs, particularly to the automatic transmission or cooling system, can add to ownership expenses. Despite these occasional repair concerns, the overall long-term cost of ownership remains relatively low, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals seeking practical transportation.
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
12.70 gallons
City Mileage
25 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
34 miles/gallon
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
1998 Ford Escort Wagon Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Ford Escort Wagon is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon Compare to Other Wagon?
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon competed in a crowded compact wagon segment against vehicles like the Honda Civic Wagon, Toyota Corolla Wagon, and Chevrolet Cavalier Wagon. In terms of performance, the Escort Wagon's optional 1.8L Zetec engine offered decent power for its class, but it generally lagged behind more engaging competitors. The base 2.0L engine was adequate for basic transportation.
Regarding features, the Escort Wagon offered a practical, no-frills interior. While it had standard amenities like power windows on some trims, it lacked the more refined interior materials and advanced available features found in rivals like the Honda Civic Wagon, which often boasted a more modern and slightly upscale feel. Safety features were comparable, with airbags being standard, and ABS often optional across the board.
In terms of reliability, the Escort Wagon had a mixed reputation. While many owners found them dependable with proper maintenance, it was generally not considered as bulletproof as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, which are renowned for their exceptional long-term reliability and fewer major mechanical issues. The Escort Wagon's automatic transmissions and cooling systems were more prone to problems than those in its Japanese counterparts.
Price was arguably the Escort Wagon's strongest suit. It was typically one of the most affordable options when new and continues to be a budget-friendly choice on the used market. This made it appealing to buyers prioritizing cost savings.
Alternatives:
* Similar Alternatives: The Chevrolet Cavalier Wagon offered comparable affordability and practicality, though reliability could also be a concern. The Dodge Neon (though less common as a wagon) was another domestic option with a focus on value.
* Better Alternatives (if budget allows): For buyers seeking superior reliability and a more refined experience, the Toyota Corolla Wagon or Honda Civic Wagon are excellent choices, albeit usually commanding higher used prices. They offer better build quality and a reputation for enduring performance with less frequent major repairs.
Regarding features, the Escort Wagon offered a practical, no-frills interior. While it had standard amenities like power windows on some trims, it lacked the more refined interior materials and advanced available features found in rivals like the Honda Civic Wagon, which often boasted a more modern and slightly upscale feel. Safety features were comparable, with airbags being standard, and ABS often optional across the board.
In terms of reliability, the Escort Wagon had a mixed reputation. While many owners found them dependable with proper maintenance, it was generally not considered as bulletproof as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, which are renowned for their exceptional long-term reliability and fewer major mechanical issues. The Escort Wagon's automatic transmissions and cooling systems were more prone to problems than those in its Japanese counterparts.
Price was arguably the Escort Wagon's strongest suit. It was typically one of the most affordable options when new and continues to be a budget-friendly choice on the used market. This made it appealing to buyers prioritizing cost savings.
Alternatives:
* Similar Alternatives: The Chevrolet Cavalier Wagon offered comparable affordability and practicality, though reliability could also be a concern. The Dodge Neon (though less common as a wagon) was another domestic option with a focus on value.
* Better Alternatives (if budget allows): For buyers seeking superior reliability and a more refined experience, the Toyota Corolla Wagon or Honda Civic Wagon are excellent choices, albeit usually commanding higher used prices. They offer better build quality and a reputation for enduring performance with less frequent major repairs.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Ford Escort Wagon a Good Wagon?
The 1998 Ford Escort Wagon is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or small families seeking economical and practical transportation for everyday errands and light hauling. It's a sensible choice for first-time car buyers or those needing a secondary vehicle where low purchase price and decent cargo space are priorities.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle's condition. As a used car, it offers exceptional value if found in good mechanical shape with minimal rust. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the transmission, cooling system, and look for corrosion. It's not recommended for those seeking high performance or cutting-edge features. For its intended purpose as a basic, affordable hauler, a well-maintained example remains a viable option, especially if purchased at a very low price point. New was never an option for this model year, so focus is exclusively on the used market.
Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the specific vehicle's condition. As a used car, it offers exceptional value if found in good mechanical shape with minimal rust. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the transmission, cooling system, and look for corrosion. It's not recommended for those seeking high performance or cutting-edge features. For its intended purpose as a basic, affordable hauler, a well-maintained example remains a viable option, especially if purchased at a very low price point. New was never an option for this model year, so focus is exclusively on the used market.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.