10 Used Fords We Wouldn't Touch With A 10-Foot Pole

2023-01-05 17:23:53 By : Mr. Jack Yang

Used Fords allow you to save a penny while getting most of the features that you'd want in a car.

Over the years, Ford has produced some of the best vehicles in the industry. From everyday cars to muscle cars to SUVs to reliable trucks, Ford has an option for everyone. If you don't plan to splurge on a new Ford, the used market has plenty of models and options to consider.

The used market saves you a penny while getting most of the features you want in a car. However, even with its extensive lineup, there are a few Ford models to stay away from. Here's a list of 10 used models we wouldn't touch with a 10-foot pole.

For the 2019 model, the Ford Ranger appeared to have crossed all the Ts and dotted all the Is. The 2019 model year came equipped with a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 4-cylinder produced a respectable 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

However, some models had niggling build quality issues and teething problems like excessive wind noise in the cabin, misaligned rear passenger door, and door panel noises. As for the suspension, some owners complained about the Ranger leaning more to the driver's side.

The Fiesta was one of the best small cars from Ford. It was available as a hatchback and sedan. Even though Ford ended its production in 2019, it warmed the hearts of many. That's due to its economical and fun-to-drive nature.

However, while it might sound like a good buy within the used market, the 2014 model year is one to avoid. It had many issues with the transmission, door latch, and rear axle. As for the transmission, owners experienced slipping, delayed engagement, and the car stalling.

Related: End Of An Era: Ford Fiesta's Production Comes To An End

Upon announcing the F-150, Ford made a huge splash in the pickup truck market. Even though the 2018 F-150 was the best-selling truck, it had a few problems that made it unusable for most owners. It had 15 recalls, making it a model to avoid within the used market.

The most recent of these recalls included a loss of brake fluid. This resulted in a change in brake pedal travel, reduced front brake function, and increased pedal effort. While it might seem like an issue to get around, the brake changes could easily lead to a crash. Additional faults included unexpected tailgate openings, exterior lighting problems, and faulty seatbelts.

The Explorer has been a great midsized SUV within the Ford lineup. It shared its underpinnings with the Ford Flex, a car-based vehicle that some praised for its space, comfort, ride, and quietness. The Explorer has had great points, including a usable third row and a roomy, practical interior.

The 2017 version had ten recalls, making it a car to avoid within the used market. It had minor issues like a loose roof rail and major problems like a rear-toe link fracture that could lead to a loss of steering control. Additional issues included wheel separation because of the lack of a self-retention feature and heat shield problems that could cause the steering gear to overheat.

Related: 2023 Ford Explorer: Costs, Facts, And Figures

The 2018 Expedition was a giant leap forward for Ford since it had a new redesign, lost some weight, and added convenience, comfort, and optional safety features. Ford offered the Expedition in two lengths, with the longer version, the MAX, being about a foot longer than the standard model.

During this time, the Expedition had six recalls, with most revolving around the seats and powertrain. The second-row seats were missing reinforcement brackets that could allow the seat to move in the event of a crash. In addition, the 10-speed automatic transmission would experience a loss of the "Park" function because of the failure of the brand to install a rolling pin.

Within the used market, the Edge has a reasonable price, with some models selling for around $7,000. Among the reasons, most people consider the Edge is its remarkable interior space, energetic engines, and easy access.

However, the overall package falls short because of mediocre driving dynamics and refinement. The 2012 Ford Edge had MyFord Touch controls that forced drivers to take their eyes off the road. Even though it only had three recalls, all of them were dire. They included fuel leaks that could cause fires and the link shaft and half shaft disengaging while driving.

Related: The Real Reason Ford Cancelled The Next-Gen 2023 Edge SUV

Ford redesigned the Escape for the 2020 model year. It morphed into a curvier vehicle, looking more like a raised hatchback than most crossovers. Ford also added new powertrains, advanced safety features, and elaborate interior technology.

However, even with all its niceties, the 2020 Ford Escape had ten recalls. While a recall about rearward visibility isn't a big deal for most people, the Escape had larger issues. Among these were electrical system misfunctions where there would be a loss of drive power.

While the EcoSport has tiny-looking wheels and goofy styling, it boasts nimble handling. It drives more like a sporty vehicle than most dull SUVs. Drivers can enjoy taking corners quickly, thanks to its ample steering feedback.

However, even with its excellent handling, the EcoSport doesn't have enough power to match. Most owners experience engine problems where the EcoSport takes long to speed up, even with their foot pinned on the pedal. Others complain about a loss of engine oil pressure thanks to a broken engine oil pump belt tensioner.

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Buying The 2022 Ford EcoSport

The Ford Focus has been a great vehicle for most people thanks to its sporty handling, well-done interior, and relatively low noise. Even though the 2012 variant wasn't the fastest model, it had excellent fuel economy.

However, the Focus also had a few flaws that prevented it from being one of the best compact vehicles. The most problematic flaw was the PowerShift automatic transmission that would stumble at low speeds. Additional problems included breaking door latches, faulty clutches, and fuel system issues that could cause the engine to stall when driving.

For the 2018 model year, Ford made significant improvements to the Mustang styling. The Mustang got revised front and rear styling, new high-tech options, revised powertrains, and an updated interior. Ford also got rid of the V6 engine in favor of a turbocharged 4-cylinder.

However, despite its impressive improvements, the 2018 Ford Mustang was one of the brand's problem children. Like some of the brand's 2018 models, the Mustang also had an issue where it would roll when in "Park." In addition, the Mustang had fuel leak problems that increased the fire risk.

Brian is a husband, father and freelance writer. He's also a tech and automotive junkie passionate about cars and motorcycles. Brian is also an F1 fan - team Mercedes (LH). When he's not writing, Brian goes for impromptu drives and walks.