1989 Ford Escort 1.6L Petrol · G373 ARF
1989 Ford Escort (1.6L, petrol). First registered 06 Oct 1989. Recorded mileage 75,777 miles. MOT valid until 19 May 2027. Taxed until 01 Apr 2027.
- Make & Model
- FORD ESCORT
- Year / Origin
- 1989 · Maidstone
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 19 May 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Apr 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 75,777 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
G373 ARF Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 21/05/2026
- 75,777 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
G373 ARF MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1989 Ford Escort (G373 ARF) between August 2023 and May 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 21 May 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue), Windscreen (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
G373 ARF Mileage History
- 25/08/202375,584 mi
- 28/04/202575,599 mi+15 mi
- 28/04/202575,599 mi
- 21/05/202675,777 mi+178 mi
- 21/05/202675,777 mi
Average of roughly 70 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
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Known faults for Ford Ford Escort Mk5 / Mk6
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution when considering th
When inspecting this vehicle, prioritise a thorough check for structural corrosion, as the Ford Escort of this era is prone to rust in the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Since the MOT history only provides a snapshot of safety-related components, you should request any available paper service records to verify if the engine and transmission have received regular oil changes and belt replacements.
Negotiate the price based on the fact that the car has required remedial work for braking and lighting in recent years. Ensure that you have a budget set aside for potential age-related repairs, as parts for a 1989 model may require sourcing from specialist classic car suppliers rather than standard high-street motor factors.
As a classic car, this Escort may be eligible for historic vehicle tax exemption, though you should verify this status via the DVLA. Insurance costs can be lower if you register the vehicle under a classic car policy, provided you limit your annual mileage.
Fuel economy will be significantly lower than modern equivalents, and you should factor in the cost of leaded fuel additives if the engine has not been converted for unleaded petrol. Annual maintenance costs are difficult to predict for a vehicle of this age and will depend heavily on your ability to perform DIY repairs versus paying a specialist garage.
Pay close attention to the braking system, specifically the rear service brakes, as a fluctuation issue was noted in the 2025 MOT. Ensure the handbrake holds firmly on an incline and that the pedal feel is consistent, as braking components on older Fords can seize if the car has been sitting for long periods.
Check all electrical systems, including the windscreen washer jets and headlamp alignment, which were recorded as failure points in 2026 and 2025 respectively. Inspect the rubber seals around the windows and doors, as these are common failure points for water ingress, which can lead to hidden corrosion in the footwells.
This red 1989 Ford Escort has covered 75,777 miles, which is relatively low for a vehicle of this vintage. The MOT history from 2023 to 2026 indicates a pattern of minor failures, including lighting and braking fluctuations. Potential buyers should view this as a vehicle that will require consistent maintenance due to its 37-year age.
There is no aggregate MOT data available for the Ford Escort, reflecting its status as a legacy model where long-term reliability is dependent on individual preservation.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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