Hello not too long ago passed my driving test and bought me a ford escort 1.6 LX its ok but me being me want to iron out a few of the problems.. Its only done 34k on the clock and was bought off my mum's sister. but her sister isn't the best driver so i've a few problems i need to iron out.
1. the Reverse lights don't work, its not the fuse or the bulbs so i'm guessing the switch.. i've enclosed a pic wondering if i'm hot or cold. if so do i just need to replace?
that is the reversing light switch, not heard of one just stop working before tho...
2. The powersteering resevoir seems to have a leak is this common in fords?? just its a two piece heat sealed resevoir and seems to leak ever so slightly at the seem.
again, not heard of one just start leaking, but get another from a scrappie, will cost about £5
3. Brake pads are they easy to change?
yes, remove wheel, then on caliper at the bottom there is a small retaining clip, remove that with pilers, then punch out the pin, then pull the caliper towards you to enable it to swing up, remove pads, copper grease the new ones and replace
4. I know its a ford and its only 1.6 but can i make it more punchy i'm not bothered about speed overall just want it to be quicker of the mark.
the 1.6 is a waste of time and money to try and tune, lots of money for very little gains. best bet is to put a 2.0l zetec in, like mine 
5. Cracked Bumper( my brother did this
) how do i fix it? or whats the best advice?
that looks pretty terminal, again, another one wont cost much to replace
6. i've an oil leak any ideas what it could be and how to fix
that is the thermostat housing, so its leacking coolent from their, not oil. try slightly loosening the bolts of the housing, only 1/4 turn, as if they are overtightened its possible that they leak. if that dont work get a new seal
and last but not least a pic of my Engine any advice or help is more than appreciated as i've never dabbled in car mechanics but i can build a mountain bike so reckon i'll be ok with a car.
Thankyou..
