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
1,027 reports, newest first.
Power train, Apr 23, 2004
WHILE DRIVING THE ODOMETER LIGHT BLINKED ON AND OFF. DRIVER STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND SHUT OFF ENGINE. THEN, ATTEMPTED TO START VEHICLE, BUT IT WOULD NOT MOVE FORWARD. TRANSMISSION WOULD WORK ONLY WHEN COLD, ONCE THE SYSTEM WARMED UP ALL GEAR SELECTIONS WERE LOST. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER, WHO EXPLAINED THE TRANSMISSION WOULD HAVE TO BE REBUILT. CONSUMER STATED THAT TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS NOT BURNING, CLUTCHES WERE OKAY, BUT A COUPLE OF THE BUSHINGS WERE SEIZED TO THE DRUMS. THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED WITH TWO DAYS OF SLOW CITY DRIVING. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 22, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH VEHICLE STALLED. CONSUMER RESTARTED VEHICLE, AND DROVE IT TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Fuel system, Gasoline, Apr 22, 2004
I HAVE A 2001 FORD ESCAPE THAT THE FUEL NIDDLE DROPS VERRY FAST. THEY HAVE DONE THE REPAIR ON IT AND I STILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM BUT THEY REFUSED TO FIX IT AGAIN I HAVE CONTACTED AN ATTORNEY FOR THE MATTER. *AK
Air bags, Apr 20, 2004
WHILE STARTING THE VEHICLE AIR BAG LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD AND REMAINED ON. CONSUMER NOTIFIED DEALER. *AK
Electrical system, Apr 19, 2004
WHEN INSERTED KEY INTO IGNITION IT WOULD NOT TURN NOR START THE VEHICLE. THEREFORE, HAVING TO HAVE SUV TOWED FOR SERVICE AND HAVING THE PART REPLACED. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER MENTIONED THAT HE HAS SEEN THIS HAPPEN ALOT IN FORD CARS/TRUCKS. *AK
Service brakes, Air, Apr 15, 2004
I HAVE A 2001 FORD ESCAPE. ABS SENSORES GOT MUD IN THEM FAILED AND BURNT OUT. I HAVE REPLACED 4 ABS SENSORSE IN 5 MONTH PERIOD. I WAS TOLD BECAUSE OF MUD GETTING IN THEM. DEALER SHIP AND FORD CUSTOMOER SERVICE TELL ME TO WASH SENSORS OFF WHEN EVER I DRIVE THROUGH THE MUD. I LIVE ON A DIRT ROAD. SO I WOULD HALF TO CRAWL UNDER THE CAR AND WASH ALL SENSORSE EVERY DAY. I GET IN MY CAR IN THE MORNING TO TAKE THE KIDS TO THE SCHOOL BUS HALF WAY THERE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT GOES ON. WHEN I GET HOME IF I CRAWL UNDER THE CAR AND WASH OUT SENSORES THE LIGHT WILL GO OFF. THEN LATER IN THE DAY WHEN I GO TO PICK UP THE KIDS THE SAME THING HAPPENS. IF I WASH THE SENSORES EVERYTIME I GO THROUGH THE MUD ABS BREAKS WILL WORK UNTILL I GET MUD IN THEM. IF I DONT WASH MUD OUT OF SENSORES EVENTUALLY THEY WILL BURN OUT. THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID THIS IS NORMAL MAINTANACE. I CANT BELIEVE THEY WOULD CONSIDER THAT NORMAL. I HAVE SPENT MOST OF THE TIME I HAVE OWNED THIS SUV DRIVING IT WITH OUT ABS BREAKS. I THINK THEY SHOULD FIX THIS DESIGN PROBLEM, BEFORE I GET INTO AN ACIDENT WITH OUT THE USE OF MY ABS BRAKES. I WANT PROBLEM FIXED BEFORE I HAVE AN ACCIDENT WITH NO ABS BRAKES. THEY BLAME THE PROBLEM ON ME FOR NOT KEEPING IT CLEAN. I CANT WASH IT EVERYTIME I USE IT AND I SHOULDN'T HALF TO IF THEY WOULD REDESIGN IT.*AK
Electrical system, Apr 14, 2004
OCT 15, 2001- WHILE DRIVING DOWN A STEEP HILL IN AUSTIN, TX, MY ESCAPE SUDDENLY DIED WITHOUT WARNING. I WAS UNABLE TO STOP, STEER, OR SLOW DOWN! I COASTED INTO A PARKING LOT AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL AND LUCKILY AVOIDED ALL PARKED CARS OR PEOPLE (CO-WORKERS!) WALKING THROUGH THE LOT. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO MAXWELL FORD AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH MY CAR! I CONTACTED THE PRESIDENT/ CEO TO EXPRESS MY CONCERN OVER WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED. HE DIDN'T SEEM TO BE MOVED. I PICKED UP MY CAR AND HOPED IT WAS JUST A FLUKE. TWO AND-A-HALF YEARS LATER AND NOT A SINGLE PROBLEM, UNTIL LAST WEEK (APRIL 9, 2004). I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 40MPH AROUND A CURVE AND SUDDENLY LOST ALL ABILITY TO STEER OR SLOW DOWN! ONCE AGAIN, I WAS UNBELIEVABLY LUCKY THAT I DIDN'T HURT ANYONE OR MYSELF. I WAS ABLE TO START IT AGAIN AND SAFELY PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AFTER COASTING TO A STOP. I'M GRATEFUL THAT I WASN'T REAR-ENDED OR HIT HEAD-ON WHEN I COASTED OVER THE MIDDLE LINE.... (NEVERMIND THE HEART-ATTACK I ALMOST HAD FROM THE SUDDENNESS OF THIS!) I HATE TO IMAGINE THE OUTCOME IF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED 10 MINUTES EARLIER WHILE I WAS MOVING AT 55MPH IN BUSY TRAFFIC ON THE HIGHWAY OR ON THE EXIT RAMP! I HAVE AN APPT TO TAKE THE CAR IN ON FRIDAY. COINCIDENTALLY, I DISCOVERED (THIS MORNING) THAT A RECALL HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED FOR THIS VERY PROBLEM.... (2 YEARS AFTER THEY WERE MADE AWARE THAT THERE MIGHT BE AN ISSUE????) WHAT A RELIEF. SO, I'LL BE BACK ON HWY 410 IN SAN ANTONIO NEXT WEEK AFTER I PICK MY CAR UP FROM THE SERVICE DEPT --- I'LL BE THE ONE IN THE FORD ESCAPE GOING ABOUT 60MPH..... I SURE HOPE I'LL BE ABLE TO STEER OR SLOW DOWN IF I NEED TO!! AT LEAST, I'LL BE BETTER PREPARED FOR THIS "SURPRISE" FROM NOW ON ( LIKE EVERYTIME I HAVE TO DRIVE ANYWHERE)! .... NOTHING LIKE PAYING $24,000 FOR A LITTLE EXTRA STRESS AND WORRY. THANKS, FORD. YOU ARE JUST SUPER.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Apr 14, 2004
SMELL OF GAOLINE COMING THROUGH HEATER VENTS. ENGINE STALLS OR HESTTATES AT AROUND 35-40 MPH. DEALER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO FIX EITHER PROBLEM.
Power train, Apr 14, 2004
2001 FORD ESCAPE PROPERLY MAINTAINED, SECOND TIME REPORTING DRIVE TRAIN NOISE. FIRST TIME DEALER REPLACED STABALIZER BAR, NOW @ 41000 MILES BOTH TIE ROD ENDS NEED TO BE REPLACED. I BOUGHT A RELIABLE CAR TO SAVE MONEY, AND NOW PUTTING MONEY INTO A 3 YEAR OLD CAR. PART ON BACK ORDER, WONDER IF ANYONE ELSE IS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE.
Vehicle speed control, Apr 13, 2004, crash
CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT A SUDDEN ACCELERATION PROBLEM. CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ABOUT 40 MPH WHEN SUDDENLY THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED UP TO 70 MPH. DRIVER TRIED TO BRAKE BUT VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. VEHICLE EVENTUALLY CRASHED. *AK
Other or unspecified, Apr 8, 2004
CONSUMER'S COUSIN IS THE OWNER OF 2001 FORD ESCAPE WHICH HAS A RECALL. SINCE THE COUSIN IS IN IRAQ, CONSUMER REQUESTED AN EXTENSION TO HAVE RECALL PERFORMED. *PH (DENEEN LEBAN ON BALF OF COUSIN BRIAN LEBAN). *JB
Suspension, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Apr 5, 2004
PREMATURE BRAKE ROTOR WEAR. ROTORS AND PADS REPLACED TWICE; ONCE AT 30K MILES AND AGAIN AT 60K MILES. BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER REQUIRED REPLACEMENT AT 60K MILES. NUMEROUS FRONT-END PROBLEMS AFTER LIGHT CONVENTIONAL "ON-ROAD" DRIVING (I.E. LOOSE END LINKS, BALL JOINTS, MISALIGNMENT), WHICH IN TURN RESULTED IN PREMATURE DESTRUCTION OF TWO SETS OF TIRES. BURNING OIL SMELL IN CABIN SUPPOSEDLY UNIDENTIFIABLE AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS BY DEALER. NONE OF THE ABOVE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. OVER $2500 IN REPAIRS AND VEHICLE IS ONLY AT 63K MILES! *JB
Other or unspecified, Apr 5, 2004
ON MY 2001 FORD ESCAPE THE PAINT IS COMING OFF THE ROOF RACKS IN SEVERAL PLACES. ALSO THE PAINT IS BUBBLING ON THE HOOD IN SEVERAL PLACES. THE WIPER ARMS DON'T SEEM TO BE HOLDING THE PAINT AND IT'S STARTING TO LOOK FADED AND RUSTY. THE CAR IS KEPT IN A GARAGE EXCEPT AT WORK. *JB
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 1, 2004
I HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCEING ALOT OF STALLING WITH MY 2001 FORD ESCAPE. IT USUALLY HAPPENS WHEN ON A DOWNGRADE OR SLOWING TO STOP. THE IDLE DROPS VERY LOW AND THE CAR STALLS. IT OFTEN STALLS WHEN SITTING AT AN IDLE ALSO. I HAVE HAD IT STALL MANY TIMES WHEN SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A TURN. WHEN THE ESCAPE STALLS, YOU LOSE STEERING. I AM AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. I FIRST STARTING STALLING IN MARCH OF 2003 AND HAVE HAD HUNDREDS OF STALLS. YESTERDAY(3/31/04) THE ESCAPE STALLED 5 TIMES IN A 2 MILE STRETCH. I AM VERY WORRIED THAT ONE DAY IT WILL STALL TURNING AT A BUSY INTERSECTION AND I WON'T BE ABLE TO RESTART FAST ENOUGH TO STOP FROM GETTING HIT OR HITTING SOMEONE OR SOMETHING ELSE. BECAUSE I AM OUT OF WARRENTY FORD WILL DO NOTHING. I KNOW THERE IS A TSB ON THIS PROBLEM, BUT I CAN'T AFFORD TO HAVE IT DONE, AND I FEEL THIS IS SOMETHING FORD SHOULD DO WHETHER YOU'RE UNDER WARRENTY OR NOT.*AK
Seat belts, Mar 30, 2004
THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY. *AK *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 29, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OIL LIGHT AND THE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD, THEN, VEHICLE STALLED. CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 29, 2004
ENGINE STALLS AT 40 MPH.*AK
Power train, Mar 27, 2004
PREMATURE TRANSMISSION FLUID FAILURE CAUSING A SHUDDDER IN THE TRANSMISSION AS THE GEARS SHIFT FROM 3RD TO OVERDRIVE.*AK
Seat belts, Mar 25, 2004
NHTSA RECALL# 03V507000 SUBJECT:SEAT BELT BUCKLE COVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR THE FREE REMEDY. THE CONSUMER ALSO ASKED THE MECHANIC TO DO AN OIL CHANGE. THE DEALER KEPT THE VEHICLE FOR A WHILE AND RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE CONSUMER. AFTER ABOUT THIRTY MINUTES, THE DEALER'S MECHANIC CALLED AND INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT THE RECALL REPAIR AND THE OIL CHANGE WAS NOT DONE BECAUSE THE MECHANIC FORGOT TO DO IT. THE MECHANIC ONLY DID A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. *NM
Tires, Mar 24, 2004
REPLACEMENT OF ORIGINAL TIRES AT 23000 MILES. *NM
Seat belts, Mar 23, 2004
THE REPLACEMENT PART TO PERFORM SEAT BELT BUCKLE RECALL 03V507000 REPAIRS HAD NOT BEEN AVAILABLE FOR OVER A MONTH. *AK
Steering, Mar 18, 2004
2001 FORD ESCAPE XLT, MILEAGE OF < 42,000, IN OTHERWISE EXCELLENT CONDITION, PURCHASED USED, IN NOV 2003 WITH JUST OVER 36,000 MILES, NOW REQUIRES REPLACEMENT OF WORN TIE ROD ENDS. THIS IS PREMATURE FOR THE USAGE. FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD BE AWARE OF THIS. *AK
Vehicle speed control, Mar 18, 2004
I EXPERIENCED UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION OF THE VEHICLE AS I WAS ABOUT TO TURN INTO A PARKING SPACE AT THE LOCAL LIBRARY.*AK
Seat belts, Mar 17, 2004
THE REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY DID NOT LOCK INTO PLACE DUE TO THE BUCKLE NOT ENGAGING. *AK *JB
Tires, Mar 11, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED DRIVER HEARD A THUMPING NOISE. DRIVER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. TWO WEEKS LATER, FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. CONSUMER FELT TIRES SHOULD HAVE LASTED LONGER THAN 20, 000 MILES. GENERAL, GRABBERS AW, 225/70R15. *AK CONSUMER ALSO FELT SEVERE VIBRATION ON STEERING WHEEL WHEN TREAD SEPARATED FROM STEEL CORD. ALSO, IT WAS MEASURE BY A TIRE DEALER THAT OTHER TIRES WERE WORN AS WELL AND HAS A 400 TREAD WEAR RATING STAMPED ON THEM. *LA