FORD ESCORT (2001)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 695 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
695
Avg Mileage
98,376 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2001 FORD ESCORT reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 23 years old, 71% of FORD ESCORTs from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 695 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 98,376 miles.
How does the 2001 FORD ESCORT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2001 FORD ESCORT has 98,376 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FORD ESCORT?
The most reliable year is the 1992 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 71%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2001 FORD ESCORT cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FORD ESCORT by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 100% | 32 | 32,761 mi |
| 2016 | 100% | 33 | 49,005 mi |
| 2015 | 91% | 34 | 45,109 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 525 | 107,053 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 695 | 98,376 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 801 | 83,996 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 706 | 55,466 mi |
| 1998 | 74% | 1,292 | 59,153 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 1,797 | 56,799 mi |
| 1996 | 77% | 1,820 | 56,809 mi |
| 1995 | 81% | 1,377 | 52,782 mi |
| 1994 | 83% | 1,008 | 57,612 mi |
| 1993 | 83% | 1,097 | 51,371 mi |
| 1992 | 88% | 733 | 50,276 mi |
| 1991 | 85% | 782 | 53,590 mi |
| 1990 | 85% | 2,672 | 52,314 mi |
Checking a specific FORD ESCORT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2001 FORD ESCORT
The 2001 FORD ESCORT is a small family car with a 1597cc petrol engine. 695 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2001, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 98,376 miles at 23 years old, FORD ESCORT owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2001 FORD ESCORT Fuel Costs
The 1597cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2001 FORD ESCORT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD ESCORT Reliability Trend
Older FORD ESCORTs tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 11 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 2001 FORD ESCORT
At 23 years old, the FORD ESCORT is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2001 FORD ESCORT
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (same) from 29,898 tests
- MINI MINI (2003) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 25,713 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2003) 68% pass rate (-3%) from 22,313 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2003) 67% pass rate (-4%) from 21,166 tests