2001 Ford Escape
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine and engine cooling is the leading concern among 1,027 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 14th highest complaint count among 26 Escape model years with reports.
Of the 2001 reports, 77 involved a crash and 60 involved a fire. 75 people were injured and 3 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Power train, automatic transmission, lever and linkage, floor shiftSep 29, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured March 31, 2001, to September 1, 2009. The affected vehicles are equipped with either a 2.3L or 3.0L engine and have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmissions and either tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S28.
Campaign 15V606000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, front, wheel bearingJun 3, 2015
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
Campaign 15E045000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, frame and membersApr 2, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Escape vehicles manufactured October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm.
A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S02.
Campaign 14V165000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingJul 26, 2012
Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control manufactured from October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. The safety recall began August 3, 2012. Remedy parts are expected to be available in mid-August 2012. Until then dealers will disconnect the speed control cable as an interim remedy, if parts are not available at the time of an owner's service appointment. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 12V353000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/moduleJan 9, 2012
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 22, 1999, THROUGH JULY 19, 2002, EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP THAT COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF BRAKE FLUID LEAKS FROM THE CAP, IT COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
CORROSION CAN DEVELOP IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR LEADING TO MELTING, SMOKE OR A FIRE.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP AND THE ABS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WILL BE MODIFIED. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED ON JANUARY 20, 2012. DUE TO A PARTS DELAY, HOWEVER, THE REMEDY MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE CURRENTLY. IF PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, FORD WILL INSTRUCT OWNERS TO PARK THEIR VEHICLES OUTSIDE UNTIL SUCH TIME AS PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332. THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN IS RELATED TO 07V-156.
Campaign 12V005000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/moduleApr 10, 2007
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MIGHT CAUSE AN ABS MALFUNCTION THAT WOULD ILLUMINATE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT, AND IN SOME CASES, THE MODULE MAY OVERHEAT RESULTING IN BURNING ODOR, SMOKE, AND/OR FIRE. THIS CONDITION COULD OCCUR EITHER WHEN THE VEHICLE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION OR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE ABS MODULE FOR MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS, AND REPAIR OR REPLACE THE HARNESS CONNECTOR AS APPROPRIATE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE CONNECTOR ON THE ABS MODULE AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE CORRODED OR DAMAGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 07V156000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, master cylinderMar 29, 2007
CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
Campaign 07E023000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchDec 20, 2004
CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTIITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 04V602000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Apr 6, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 ENGINES, DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL.
SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) WITH THE APPROPRIATE CALIBRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 04V165000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, front, buckle assemblyDec 5, 2003
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A POST WITHIN THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE COVERS COULD FRACTURE, WHICH COULD AFFECT LATCH FUNCTION, RESULTING IN EITHER A "NO LATCH" OR "PARTIAL LATCH" CONDITION. IN THE "PARTIAL LATCH" CONDITION, THE BUCKLE TONGUE CAN BE INSERTED INTO THE BUCKLE AND APPEAR TO BE ENGAGED, BUT WILL RELEASE FROM THE BUCKLE WITHOUT THE PUSH BUTTON BEING DEPRESSED WHEN A RELATIVELY LOW LOAD IS APPLIED, SUCH AS WHEN AN OCCUPANT MOVES SLIGHTLY IN THE SEAT.
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
DEALERS WILL HAVE THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SAFETY BELT BUCKLE COVER REMOVED AND REPLACED WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED SERVICE BUCKLE COVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 2, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 03V507000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, windshield wiper/washer, linkagesNov 27, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE CAN DISENGAGE DUE TO A BROKEN BALL SOCKET.
THIS CONDITION WILL LIKELY RESULT IN SUDDEN AND COMPLETE LOSS OF THE WINDSHIELD WIPER FUNCTION, OR OF THE WIPER FUNCTION ON THE DRIVER SIDE ONLY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WIPER MODULE.
Campaign 00V387002 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, deliverySep 18, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE O-RING SEALS IN THE FUEL LINE CONNECTOR AT THE OUTLET END OF THE FUEL FILTER WERE DAMAGED WHEN THE LINE WAS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY. IN SOME CASES, THIS DAMAGE COULD RESULT IN A FUEL ODOR, OR POSSIBLY IN FUEL DRIPPING FROM THE CONNECTION.
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE FUEL LINE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 00V277001 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, hubcap/coverSep 12, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SOME 4X2 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN ANTILOCK BRAKING SYSTEM MAY HAVE INADVERTENTLY BEEN BUILT WITH 4X4 REAR HUBS INSTEAD OF 4X2 HUBS. IF THE INCORRECT HUBS ARE INSTALLED ON A 4X2 VEHICLE, THE REAR WHEELS CAN LOOSEN, OR IN SOME CASES, SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR HUBS AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THEM. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 25, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 00V260001 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed controlAug 9, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL. THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE CAN HAVE A CRACKED OR MISSING SPEED CONTROL CABLE SERVO CAP LOCATING TAB. THE LOCATING TAB COULD ENTER THE SERVO CLUTCH CAVITY AND INTERFERE WITH THE SPEED CONTROL SERVO CLUTCH. ALSO, WATER COULD ENTER THOSE UNITS THAT CONTAIN A CRACKED OR MISSING SERVO CAP LOCATING TAB, EVENTUALLY CAUSING CORROSION THAT COULD INTERFERE WITH THE FUNCTION OF THE SPEED CONTROL.
IF EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS OCCURS AND THE SPEED CONTROL IS USED, THE SPEED CONTROL COULD PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO IDLE, RESULTING IN A STUCK THROTTLE. A STUCK THROTTLE COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SPEED CONTROL CABLES. VEHICLES WITH SPEED CONTROL CABLES FROM CAVITIES 3 AND 4 WILL HAVE THE CABLE THE SPEED CONTROL SERVO REPLACED.
Campaign 00V210001 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, steering wheel/handle barAug 8, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A MIS-ASSEMBLED OR INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED NUT THAT ATTACHES THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY TO THE STEERING COLUMN. THE NUT COULD BE UPSIDE DOWN IN THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY, WHICH COULD OVERSTRESS THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT WHEN THE NUT IS TIGHTENED. IN ADDITION, SOME OF THE NUTS MAY HAVE BEEN CRACKED DURING MANUFACTURE RESULTING IN THE NUT FRACTURING WHEN IT IS TIGHTENED DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY.
EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS CAN LEAD TO THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMING LOOSE OR SEPARATING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN, RESULTING IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE STEERING WHEEL RETENTION ARMATURE AND, IF NECESSARY, THE STEERING COLUMN TO CORRECT THIS CONDITION.
Campaign 00V223001 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
140 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Jul 27, 2002
HAS STALLED WHILE DRIVING AT ABOUT 35MPH. THIS HAS HAPPENED FOUR TIMES IN THE LAST FOUR MONTHS . WHEN I QUESTIONED THE DEALER ABOUT THE PROBLEM I WAS TOLD THAT THIS WAS BECAUSE THE GAS IN THE CAR WAS STILL WINTER GRADE AND IT WOULD CLEAR UP. HOWEVER THIS HAPPENED FOR THE FOURTH TIME ABOUT THREE WEEKS AGO. THIS IS MY WIFES CAR, AND THIS IS VERY SCARY FOR HER. SHE NEVER KNOWS WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN, IT JUST STALLS OUT WHILE SHE IS IN MOTION. I. *AK
Steering, Electrical system, Jul 19, 2002
WHILE DRVING STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP AND THEN VEHICLE STALLED, ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. VEHICLE WAS CHECKED BY DEALER, WHO ADVISED CONSUMET THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY PROBLEM.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Electrical system, Jul 11, 2002
VEHICLE IS STALLING AT LOW SPEED. HAS BEEN TAKEN TO DEALER 4 TIMES. POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE/ WIRING ASSEMBLY AND PCM RELAY WERE REPLACED. DID NOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Jun 30, 2002
I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH DOWNHILL DURING RUSH HOUR WHEN I LOST POWER. I WAS ON A STRETCH OF INTERSTATE THAT HAD NO SHOULDER SO I COASTED 1/4 MILE TO THE SHOULDER. I WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO REPLACED MY ALTERNATOR. SIX WEEKS LATER, I GO TO START MY CAR AND IT WOULDN'T START.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Equipment, Jun 11, 2002
VEHICLE HAS STALLED 3 TIMES AT 35-40 MPH DOWN AN INCLINE. DEALER HAS RECALIBRATED COMPUTER.*AK DEALER PUT ON NEW EEC AND NEW IDLE AIR CONTROL. A/C FAILED AND WAS REPLACED. *YH
Electrical system, Jun 11, 2002
VEHICLE WOULD NOT START, WOULDN'T EVEN TURN OVER CTED LIKE THE BATTERY WAS DEAD, EXCEPT THE RADIO WORKED AND SEAT BELT CHIME WOULD RUN. PLAYED WITH STEERING WHEEL AND IT STARTED. THIS HAS HAPPENED 4 TIMES IN 1 YEAR. IT IS AT THE DEALERS RIGHT NOW, THEY SAY THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS BEFORE. LAST WEEK WHEN IT DID IT AND I WAS MOVING THE STEERING WHEEL , IT DIDN;T EVEN LOCK, I DON'T KNOW IF THAT HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH IT. I ALWAYS PARK WHERE I CAN MAKE SURE A WRECKER CAN GET IN TO HAUL IT TO THE DEALERS.*AK
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Structure, Other or unspecified, Apr 19, 2002
VEHICLE HAS STALLED TWICE AT 35-40 MPH WHILE COASTING DOWN HILL. DEALER REPLACED COMPUTER MODULE AND ECC RELAY. NLM CONSUMER STATES KEYLESS ENTRY WORKS INTERMITTENTLY. THE WEATHER STRIPS COMING OFF ON BOTH BACK DOORS. THE VACUUM LINE WAS LOOSE AND HISSING. THE COOLANT LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME ON DUE TO COOLANT BOTTLE FAILURE, ALSO THERE WAS A CRACKING NOISE UNDER THE DASH AND THE RADIO WENT OUT. *YH
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 9, 2002
INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS WILL CONTINUOUSLY COME ON, FOR EXAMPLE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT WILL COME ON, BUT THERE WAS NEVER ANYTHING WRONG WITH VEHICLE. CONTACTED DEALER.*AK
Electrical system, Apr 8, 2002
HORN SWITCH USUALLY DOES NOT ACTUATE HORN, WHEN PRESSED. DEALER REPORTS THAT THEY ARE ALL THAT WAY. IF SO, THEY SHOULD ALL BE REDESIGNED AND REPLACED.*AK
Electrical system, Apr 3, 2002
THE ENGINE STALLED WHILE TRAVELLING 35MPH. I WAS BRAKING LIGHTLY GOING AROUND A LEFT HANDED CURVE AND HIT A BUMP. THE RADIO AND AC WERE ON. THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND I LOST POWER ASSIST TO THE STEERING AND BRAKES WHICH MADE IT HARD TO COMPLETE THE CURVE SAFELY. I GOT THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, BUT NOT OUT OF THE ROAD, BEFORE IT CAME TO A STOP. I TURNED OFF THE RADIO AND AC, THEN THE IGNITION SWITCH. I WAITED ABOUT 90 SEC. AND IT RESTARTED ON THE SECOND TRY. IT HAS NOT HAPPENED AGAIN, BUT NOW THE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON ALL THE TIME AND THE VEHICLE HESITATES. I AM TAKING IT IN TOMORROW TO THE DEALER.*AK
Steering, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electrical system, Mar 14, 2002
CAR ELECTRICAL, STEERING AND BRAKES CUT OFF DRIVING AT 35-40 MPH ON CURVY ROAD. JUST BOUGHT THE CAR USED 2 DAYS AGO. FIRST TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED. NOW THAT IVE LOOKED AT THIS SITE, SEEMS MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS PROBLEM. GOING TO DEALER TOMMOROW. WE LIKE THE CAR, BUT WE'RE AFRAID WE HAVE OURSELVES A LEMON. I HOPE THE DEALER/FORD WILL FIX THIS PROBLEM AND STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT.
Electrical system, Feb 26, 2002
THIS CAR WILL START BY ITSELF. WITH THE KEY IN IGNITION IN THE ON POSITION, AND NO ONE IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT, STARTS ITSELF.*AK
Electrical system, Interior lighting, Feb 16, 2002
THE OVERHEAD MAP LIGHTS IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE DO NOT COME ON WHEN THE DRIVER DOOR IS OPENED. THE CENTER AND BACK DOME LIGHTS COME ON AND THEN FADE, HOWEVER, THERE ISN'T ENOUGH LIGHT IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE TO SEE TO PUT THE KEY IN WITHOUT MANUALLY TURNING ON THE MAP LIGHT. I HAVE 2 FRIENDS WHO HAVE THE SAME YEAR MODEL, AND THEIR MAP LIGHTS COME UP. WHEN I CONTACTED THE DEALER, HE SAID A CHANGE IN WIRING WAS MADE TO THEIR VEHICLES AND WOULD GLADLY CHARGE ME $300 TO FIX MINE. I LIVE IN ALASKA WHERE 6 MONTHS OUT OF THE YEAR IT'S DARK AND I BELIEVE THIS IS A SAFETY HARZARD IN GETTING INTO THE VEHICLE WITHOUT HAVING ADEQUATE LIGHTING TO SEE TO PUT THE KEY IN. WE'VE TALKED TO THE SEVICE MANAGER AND THEY ARE UNWILLING TO DO ANYTHING FOR US. THEY HAVE APOLOGIZED FOR WASTING MY TIME, AND LEAVING ME SIT IN THEIR WAITING AREA FOR 8 HOURS AND THEN ANNOUNCING THEY "FORGOT" ABOUT ME. WHEN TOLD IT WOULD TAKE AN ADDTIONAL 3 1/2 HOURS TO FIX, AND COST ME $300, THERE WASN'T ENOUGH TIME LEFT IN THE DAY TO COMPLETE THE JOB IF I CHOSE TO SPEND THE MONEY AND WOULD HAVE HAD TO COME BACK AT ANOTHER TIME. I FEEL THIS IS A TRUE SAFETY HAZARD WHEN I CAN'T SEE TO PUT THE KEY IN AND START THE VEHICLE UP.*AK
Electrical system, Feb 11, 2002
WHILE DRIVING 35MPH ACCELERATOR STARTED DECELERATING WITHOUT WARNING. LOST ALL POWER DUE TO MEMORY IN COMPUTER GOING OUT.DEALER REPROGRAMMED COMPUTER.*AK
Fuel system, Gasoline, Electrical system, Feb 1, 2002
AT HIGHWAY SPEED VEHICLES SUDDENLY DIED. DRIVER LOST BRAKES AND STEERING CONTROL. DRIVER COASTED TO SIDE OF ROAD. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THEY REPLACED RELAY SYSTEM. ONE MONTH LATER, PROBLEM REOCCURRED. DEALER STATED IT WAS THE PROCESSER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Electrical system, Jan 29, 2002
WHEN TRYING TO GO UP A HILL VEHICLE WILL AUTOMATICALLY SHUTOFF. PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER REPLACED EEC POWER RELAY.*AK
Electrical system, Dec 17, 2001
THE ENGINE DIED TWICE WHILE BEING DRIVEN RESULTING IN LOSS OF POWER TO THE STEERING AND BRAKES. IN BOTH CASES, THE VEHICLE WAS GOING DOWN A SLIGHT GRADE AT 30-35 MPH, MY FOOT WAS OFF THE ACCELERATOR. THERE WAS NO ADVANCED INDICATION THAT THERE WAS AN IGNITION PROBLEM. FOLLOWING THE FIRST INCIDENT (5,400 MILES) THE DEALER CHECKED IT OUR AND SAID THERE WERE NO CODES INDICATING ANY FAULTS. THE SECOND TIME (12,350 MILES) THE SAME DEALER CALLED THE FORD HOTLINE AND WAS ADVISED TO REPLACE THE IAC VALVE AND PCV HOSE. THUS FAR, THE VEHICLE HAS NOT FAILED BUT I DO NOT HAVE COMPLETE CONFIDENCE IN THE REPAIRS. IN BOTH CASES, I CALLED THE FORD CUSTOMER HOTLINE AND LODGED A COMPLAINT. THIS IS VERY SERIOUS AND COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR INJURIES. I HAVE HEARD OF OTHER ESCAPE DRIVERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.*AK
Electrical system, Dec 6, 2001
VEHICLE HAS STALLED 3 TIMES AT SPEEDS OF 30-40 MPH. VEHICLE TAKEN TO DEALER 3 TIMES, ONLY GROUND WIRE OF BATTERY WAS REPLACED, BUT IT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM.*AK
Electrical system, Dec 5, 2001
FORD ESCAPE 2001 STALLED ON MY WIFE AS SHE DROVE HOME. THE POWER WENT OUT IN THE CAR AND SHE BARELY HAD THE POWER TO STOP THE VEHICLE SINCE THE BRAKES WERE OUT. THIS HAS HISTORICALLY BEEN A PROBLEM WITH FORD (RECENTLY SETTLED CASE WITH OTHER FORD VEHICLES) WHERE STALLING CAUSE MANY (66%) FATALITIES. THIS PROBLEM HAS HAPPENED TO 3 OTHERS THAT WE KNOW OF. FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM (PER CUST. SERV. MGR-PATRICK DORRINGTON) BUT ARE NOT BUYING US OUT OF OUR DEAL SINCE THE PROBLEM ONLY HAPPENED ONCE. MY WIFE IS 4 MONTHS PREGNANT AND WITH 2/3RDS OF FORD STALLING EVENTS ENDING IN DEATH SHE IS NEVER DRIVING THIS CAR AGAIN. ANY HELP WITH THIS PROBLEM WOULD BE APPRECIATED.*AK
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Nov 29, 2001
ONGOING PROBLEM WITH ENGINE STALLING WHILE TRAVELING 30 OR MORE MPH. VEHICLE BEEN IN DEALER SHOP ON THREE OCCASIONS, DEALER TESTED FOR POSSIBLE FUEL CONCERN AND REPLACED POWER RELAY BUT DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *AK AUX POWER POINT INOPERABLE DUE TO BLOWN FUSE.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Fuel system, Other, Electrical system, Nov 16, 2001
VEHICLE STALLED WIHTOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING @~30MPH. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL OTHER TIMES ON THE ROAD. DEALER HAS PERFORMED REPAIRS 3 OTHER TIMES AS FOLLOWS: VISIT 1 - CHANGED FUEL PUMP RELAY, VISIT 2 - CHANGED ECM MODULE RELAY, VISIT 3 - REPLACED FUEL PUMP AND SENDER. DEALER SERVICE HAS INDICATED THAT THEY WERE UNABLE TO FIND EXACT CAUSE OF STALLING, SO THEY ARE REPLACING COMPONENTS IN HOPES OF CATCHING THE PROBLEM. AFTER VEHICLE STALLED, POWER STEERING AND BRAKES WERE NON-FUNCTIONAL AND I ONCE AGAIN NEEDED TO PULL OFF THE ROAD EVASIVELY TO AVOID REAR-ENDING THE CARS IN FRONT OF ME. CLARIFICATION: THIS MOST RECENT STALLING INCIDENT OCCURED TODAY, EVEN AFTER THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED.*AK
Electrical system, Nov 5, 2001
VEHICLE TENDS TO STALL WHILE CRUISING DOWNHILL WITH ENGINE IDLING. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICED FOR SAME PROBLEM THREE TIMES BUT THE PROBLEM CONTINUES TO OCCUR RESULTING IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION INVOLVING LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKING, CONSUMER FEELS THE PROBLEM IS WITH THE IGNITION. *YH
Electrical system, Oct 31, 2001
WHEN DRIVING AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING VEHICLE WILL STALL COMPLETELY, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER HAS REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH, BUT PROBLEM STILL OCCURS.*AK
Electrical system, Oct 23, 2001
WHILE DRIVING, VEHICLE STALLED, CONSUMER STATES ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS FAILED, VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART, CONSUMER LISTS STALL OCCURRED DUE TO ELECTRICAL WIRING PROBLEM UNDER THE HOOD. *SLC
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Oct 16, 2001
WHEN DRIVING OR IDLING, MY 2001 FORD ESCAPE HAS STALLED 7 TIMES IN THE PAST THREE WEEKS. THE AUTO HAS ONLY 8600 MILES. I FIRST TOOK IT TO THE FORD SERVICE SHOP, WHO REPLACED THE AIR FLOW VALVE AND THE IDLE REGULATOR, BUT THIS DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE CAR STALLED AGAIN TWO DAYS LATER. I RETURNED THE CAR TO THE SHOP WITHOUT ANY HELP FROM THE DEALER BECAUSE THE SHOP COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. I EXPLAINED TO THE SHOP MANAGER THAT I HAD READ ON THE INTERNET THAT A PCM RELAY COULD BE THE CULPRIT. THE FROD DELAER SHOP VERY HESITANTLY REPLACED THE PART TODAY. I FEEL THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM BECAUSE I HAVE ALMOST BEEN HIT TWICE WHEN THE ENGINE HAS STALLED. I LOSE POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES, THUS LOSING CONTROL OF THE CAR. *AK