Used Ford Escort Rear Tailgate

The Ford Escort ran through several distinct generations in the UK: the MkI (1968–1975), MkII (1975–1980), MkIII (1980–1986), MkIV (1986–1990), MkV (1990–1992), MkVI (1992–1995, the facelift of the MkV platform), and the final MkVII (1995–2000). Each generation used a different body shell, so tailgates are not shared between them. Always match your part to the correct generation for your registration.

This question spans a generation boundary: the MkVI ran from 1992 to 1995, while the MkVII was introduced in 1995. If your 1994 car is a MkVI and the donor is a MkVII (or vice versa), the tailgates are from different body shells and will not be a straightforward swap. Even within what looks like a continuous production run, confirm with the breaker using both registrations before purchasing.

Yes, body style is the critical factor for the rear of the car – the tailgate on a 3-door hatchback and a 5-door hatchback are different pressings with different glass apertures and hinge positions. Make sure the breaker knows whether your car is a 3-door or 5-door, and confirm this matches the donor vehicle exactly. Getting this wrong means the part simply will not fit.

Trim level – whether LX, GL, Ghia, or a performance variant – does not affect which tailgate pressing is fitted, so you do not need to source a tailgate from the same trim. However, be aware that factory-fitted spoilers, high-level brake lights, or badging may differ between trims, so the tailgate you receive could look slightly different cosmetically even though it will fit. Always confirm the generation and body style with the breaker rather than worrying about trim level.

No – the estate (Escort Touring) and the hatchback use completely different rear body structures, and their tailgates are not interchangeable at all. Body style is the first thing to establish when sourcing any rear panel, and estate versus hatchback is as fundamental a difference as it gets. Be clear with the breaker about which body style you have.

The MkV (1990–1992) and MkVI (1992–1995) share the same underlying platform, and in many cases the rear panels are the same pressing, which is why you'll see them grouped together in listings. However, whether a specific tailgate from a MkV donor crosses cleanly to a MkVI – or accounts for any mid-run pressing changes – is something you should confirm with the breaker against both registrations rather than assuming compatibility. This is a plausible match, but verify before you buy.