Questions and Answers

Ford Escort ZX2 Has The Warm Shakes Q. Mr. Vincent Ciulla, I have a 2001 Ford Escort ZX2 with DOHC motor, automatic transmission, A/C, and P/S. I presently have 22,000 miles on this car. There are no aftermarket mods and I follow the maintenance schedule. When I start the car, it idles smoothly with or without the A/C running, approximately 1,100 rpm.

Once it is warmed up, 800 rpm, it idles very poorly with or without the A/C running. It does this while the car is idling in Drive, and is even worse when the A/C is switched "On". This is not as pronounced while the car is warm and idling in Park. While in Drive, while idling, it shakes the headlights and steering wheel.

My previous 1998 ZX-2 with 110,000 miles wasn`t nearly as annoying or embarrassing. The dealer only states "unable to duplicate customer concern" as nothing shows up on their computer diagnostics. Any suggestion will be most helpful. Thank you in advance!!!

Sincerely,
Greg
Tampa, FL

A. The best diagnostic tool a technician has is his brain. I think too many technicians rely solely on the on-board diagnostics. If they don't see a code, they're lost. If this problem is consistent, then I don't need a computer to see something is wrong. It's probably just a vacuum leak.

This car is still under warranty so I would call Ford Customer Service and file a complaint. The Factory Representative will meet with you and get the problem resolved. Even if it is just out of warranty, I would call.

Maybe they can find a real technician to diagnose your problem.