Whether you’re buying a new or used car, potential maintenance costs should always factor into your final decision. If you’re a Ford fan, you’ll be pleased to know that many of their used models require small repair bills compared to their rivals. Here are nine reliable Ford models with annual maintenance costs under $400.
1. Ford Aerostar
RepairPal lists the average Ford model repair cost at $775 per year, but the Aerostar averages just $387. The most common problem with this minivan is an engine oil leak before the 100,000 mile mark. The problem is usually fixed with a new oil seal for $428, according to RepairPal’s estimate. Some drivers also reported crossed oxygen sensors after 121,000 miles, although this problem can be fixed for less than $100.
2. Ford Aspire
You’re likely to pay just $369 to service the Ford Aspire compact car each year. Besides a transmission ventilation issue, a lower engine bearing failure is the most prominent issue. RepairPal says you can probably avoid this by scheduling regular service appointments and keeping your engine RPMs low.
3. Ford Contour
RepairPal says annual repairs on the Ford Contour are around $397. However, be aware that you may encounter transmission problems before 90,000 miles. Fortunately, these can be fixed by replacing the front pump. The Ford Contour is also prone to clogged EGR valves, but these can be cleaned or replaced relatively inexpensively.
4. Ford E-250 Econoline Club Wagon
RepairPal says this model has an annual repair cost of just $316 and there are no recurring problems reported by owners. Most of your routine inspections and replacements cost less than $100 each. An oil pump replacement, which usually costs around $600, may be the most expensive repair you’ll need to make on your Ford E-250 Econoline Club Wagon.
5. Ford Escort
RepairPal shows that the Ford Escort has many owner-reported problems, but its annual repair bill is still just $390. Hundreds of drivers had to replace the Escort’s constant control relay module at nearly 129,000 miles. Valve seals usually fall out of the engine head at 140,000 miles. A handful of other drivers encountered worn tire rod ends and cracked cylinder heads at higher mileage.
6. Ford Fiesta
RepairPal has no information about common Ford Festiva problems. However, it shows that this model maintains a lower than average annual repair cost of $393. At some point, you may need to replace some major A/C components and the engine coolant temperature sensor. Wheel bearing and control arm replacements can also be expensive.
7. Ford Five Hundred
The Ford Five Hundred sedan requires a budget of about $383 for annual repairs, although you may have to spend more on the transmission. Many RepairPal reviews detail lagging or jerky shifts approaching 118,000 miles, which often warrants a complete rebuild. Around the same time, you’ll probably need to get a new electronic throttle body as well.
8. Ford LTD Crown Victoria
RepairPal indicates that the Ford LTD Crown Victoria typically does not receive many complaints. However, the average repair quote for replacing a head gasket and heater core is over $1,000. If you can avoid these fixes, this once-popular Ford car has an annual repair bill of just $382.
9. Ford Tempo
Despite several reported problems, the Ford Tempo has an annual repair cost of just $341. The engine may experience performance problems after 100,000 miles, although a mechanic can usually fix this by thoroughly cleaning certain components. RepairPal recommends fixing transmission hiccups by adjusting the throttle stick, pins, or speed sensor.
