2002 Ford Escort 1.8L Diesel · BN02 BGO

Running costs for a 24-year-old 1.8 TD diesel will be heavily influenced by its condition rather than headline figures. Real-world fuel economy on the 1.8 TD, when healthy, tends to sit in the 40-50 mpg bracket, but worn injectors, a tired turbo or a sticking EGR valve can easily knock 10 mpg off that. Diesel tax bands for vehicles of this era are low in cash terms but the car will sit in a higher bracket than modern equivalents, and London ULEZ or other Clean Air Zone charges will apply unless the vehicle is exempt — older diesels like this typically are not ULEZ-exempt, so check before committing if you travel into such zones.

Insurance should be cheap in absolute terms given the car's low value and modest performance, but insurance group ratings from this period are difficult to verify and some insurers may struggle to quote. Sourcing parts is the bigger long-term concern: main dealer availability has dwindled for the late Escort, so expect to use independent specialists and the second-hand parts market, which can mean longer waits and older stock.

Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,800, dominated by maintenance and repair rather than fuel or tax, with the upper end more likely on a car of this age and mileage.

Although the recorded MOT entries do not list specific defects, the very limited test history means you cannot rely on those records to confirm the car's mechanical state. On the 1.8 TD engine specifically, check for blue or grey smoke on startup indicating piston ring or turbo wear, listen for turbo whistle or bearing noise, and inspect the intercooler pipes and EGR valve for carbon build-up — all common on high-mileage Escort diesels. Examine the coolant for mayonnaise around the oil cap, which would suggest head gasket issues, and check the injector pipes for diesel dampness or weeping unions.

On the bodywork, look closely at the front wings, sills and wheel arches for the rust that the late Escort is known for; a paint depth gauge is a worthwhile investment. Inspect the underside for corrosion and check that all brake pipes and fuel lines are free from rust-through. Confirm the condition of the tyres including spare, as a fresh set on a car of this value can be a useful negotiating point.

Finally, check that all electrical items work — the Escort of this era can suffer from dash cluster faults and intermittent central locking issues. Ensure the VIN plate, chassis stamp and engine number all match the documentation, as Escorts of this age are sometimes cloned from written-off donors, particularly at the budget end of the market.