Two problems related to engine knocking noise have been reported for the 1997 Ford Escort. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine check light appears on dashboard when consumer took vehicle to dealership. When dealership dropped vehicle off there was a knocking noise coming from underneath vehicle. Engine locked up.
Pulled into a parking lot and while waiting for a space heard loud banging noise. Dealer replaced crankshaft pully system. Electrical system short circuited behind fuse box and melted wiring. Additional damage still unknown. Caused dashlighting, tail lights, & reverse lights to fail.