I Think I Don't Want These Computers in Cars Anymore

That generation of escort is a good car. I bet someone didn't put the clip on correctly.
The early generation of FI escorts were really reliable cars, had a couple.

My buddy also had one, but he was hard on clutches.
He would call me up, say the clutch is out, he knew the routine, have it jacked up, front end off the ground, sitting in the driveway.
I got off work about an hr earlier than he did, when he came home I would have the trans out.
He knew the drill, have NAPA turn the flywheel, new clutch kit.
I must have done this at least 4 times. The car never did die, he just traded up for a newer truck.