One problem related to differential unit has been reported for the 1999 Ford Escort. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1999 Escort automatic transmission was completely replaced at 30,906 miles (6/8/2001). 35,386 miles later (3/30/2004), the differential assembly blew up and destroyed the automatic transmission. Ford's customer support cntr on 4/6/04 said I would be responded to within 3 business days. I tried e-mailing them again, and I still have no response. A total of 66,292 miles and two new transmissions broken. Today is six business days later. I feel I am now being ignored by Ford. They know I have bought 8 Ford cars/trucks since 1977. I have dmv records for 6 of them.