Three problems related to steering tie rod assembly have been reported for the 1996 Ford Escort. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Tie rod failure on the left side. The tie rods on both sides were replaced about 3 years ago. When taken in to the shop they found the right side was very bad also. This car has 59,000 miles. The failure happened while driving. Pretty scarry stuff. . .
The left, outer tie rod broke, traveling on a staight, smooth road at about 35 mph. A police report is available. Unable to steer the vehicle, it went out of control and left the road. It came to a stop against a tree, causing slight body damage.
Tie rod failed.