I have a 1996 ford escort? I drive 30 minutes to work? Should I be afraid it breaking down soon?

I'm pretty much afraid of it breaking down eventually. I have work 5 days a week and get there in 30 minutes(due to the fact that i moved recently). Should I be afraid of it breaking down? I feel like sometimes its hard to turn the engine on because it takes two tries… Also, should I go to a mechanics place to see if there are any problems with it? Last time I took it to a mechanic, they had it for a month!

Take it to a trusted mechanic, not the last one that had it for a month. And have them give it a good inspection. If it is running good there's no reason to believe it will not be dependable. But for peace of mind have it inspected as I'm sure it does need some repairs if it is not starting like it should. May only need a new set of plugs. Have the transmission fluid changed if you have not done so in the last 50,000 miles. That is money well spent and can safe you plenty to prevent transmission problems. Also have there brake fluid changed which is an overlooked but important maintenance item.

Of course you should take a car that is almost 20 years old to a mechanic from time to time. This is preventative maintenance. But do not leave it for a month. An hour or 2 and they can tell you if there are warning signs of trouble. Some problems hit at anytime with no warning, but routine inspection and maintenance reduces the odds considerably. Ask for estimates for repairs, but do not tell them to just fix everything they find.

As long as it runs and drives with no issues, don't worry about it. Have a ford mechanic look it over and drive it, explain that its your primary means of transportation and want it to be as reliable as a 20 year old car can be.