FORD ESCORT (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 525 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
525
Avg Mileage
107,053 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2002 FORD ESCORT reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 22 years old, 74% of FORD ESCORTs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 525 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 107,053 miles.
How does the 2002 FORD ESCORT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 FORD ESCORT has 107,053 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-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%. The 2002 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2002 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 2002 FORD ESCORT
The 2002 FORD ESCORT is a family car with a 1753cc diesel engine. 525 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 107,053 miles at 22 years old, FORD ESCORT owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 FORD ESCORT Fuel Costs
The 1753cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2002 FORD ESCORT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% 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 2002 FORD ESCORT
At 22 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. If you're flexible on year, the 1992 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2002 FORD ESCORT
The FORD ESCORT is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2004) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 39,183 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2003) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 31,803 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 20,938 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2004) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 15,813 tests