2005 Ford Escape
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Suspension is the leading concern among 1,584 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 26 Escape model years with reports.
Of the 2005 reports, 44 involved a crash and 20 involved a fire. 29 people were injured and 2 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
Hybrid propulsion systemSep 3, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicles manufactured October 13, 2003, to June 20, 2008, and 2006-2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid electric vehicles manufactured June 10, 2005, to June 20, 2008. The coolant pump for the hybrid system may fail resulting in the hybrid electronics overheating.
If the hybrid electronics system overheats, it may shut down the powertrain, resulting in a stall-like condition, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the original Motor Electronics Coolant (MEC) Pump with an improved brushless pump, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S19.
Campaign 14V526000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, head restraintApr 7, 2006
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITHOUT SIDE AIR CURTAINS OR MOONROOFS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." DURING TESTING, THE FREE MOTION HEAD FORM REGISTERED A MEASUREMENT ABOVE THE PERMITTED LIMIT AT THE LEFT HAND A-PILLAR TRIM AREA.
IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY TO OCCUPANTS MAY OCCUR.
DEALERS WILL MAKE MODIFICATIONS TO THE ENERGY ABSORBING MATERIAL LOCATED ABOVE THE HEADLINER IN THE AFFECTED AREA FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 19, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 06V111000 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
Representative owner complaints: structure
459 reports, newest first. Show all
Structure, Jun 18, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS PERFORATED DUE TO RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE SHEET METAL HAD ALSO BECOME COMPLETELY CORRODED DUE TO RUST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Suspension, Structure, Jun 10, 2013
THE REAR WHEEL WELL WHERE THE SHOCK IS LOCATED THE WHOLE FRAME PANEL IS CRACKED, IT WAS COVERED UP FROM A PREVIOUS OWNER OR COMPANY. THE CAR DEALERSHIP I'M PURCHASING FROM WOULD NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR IT AND I EXPLAINED THE HAZARD IN ME DRIVING OR KEEPING THE VEHICLE AND I TOOK IT TO SEVERAL BODY SHOPS AND WAS TOLD IT HAPPENS WITH THESE VEHICLES FREQUENTLY AND ONE SHOP HAD ALREADY DONE 3 OF THE SAME AREAS. THERE IS NO RECALL OR INFORMATION ABOUT THE VEHICLES ISSUES BUT THIS IS A DANGER TO DRIVE. *TR
Structure, May 29, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING AND CLICKING SOUND. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL WAS SEVERELY CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED HER NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
Structure, May 13, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED SHE NOTICED THE REAR FRAME WAS CORRODED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Apr 14, 2013
WHILE DRIVING A LOUD CRACK/POP WAS HEARD FROM THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL AND THEN THERE WAS ROAD NOISE. WHEN WE STOPPED THERE WAS A LARGE HOLE IN THE WHEEL WELL AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT. ALL THE METAL HAS RUSTED THROUGH. THE SHOCK HAS NO ATTACHMENT LEFT TO THE UPPER BODY, ONLY ALONG THE BOTTOM EDGE. WHEN THE VEHICLE BOUNCES IT MOVES INDEPENDENTLY OF THE SHOCK IN THAT CORNER. I OPENED UP THE INTERIOR COMPARTMENT, REMOVED THE CARPET AND TRIM PIECES TO GET A LOOK AND FOUND A HOLE THAT IS LARGE ENOUGH TO PUT MY HAND THROUGH. THIS CAR HAS LESS THAN 78,000 MILES. THE TIRES AND BRAKES WERE REPLACED IN THE FALL AND NO SIGNS OF DAMAGE WERE PRESENT AT THAT TIME DUE TO THE UNDERCOATING BEING IN PLACE. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Apr 6, 2013
I HEARD UNUSUAL ROAD NOISE AND EXPERIENCED LOOSENESS NEAR THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. UPON INSPECTION, I DETERMINED THAT THE REAR WHEEL WELL HAD CORRODED THROUGH, COMPROMISING THE REAR STRUT. THE HOLE EXTENDS NEARLY 12 INCHES, EXPOSING THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE EXTENT OF THE CORROSION WAS NOT APPARENT PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT BECAUSE THE WHEEL WELL COATING COVERED THE DEFECT. AFTER LOCATING THIS CORROSION, A FURTHER INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETED, BUT NONE OF THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS EXHIBIT SIMILAR CORROSION. DUE TO THE SEVERE CORROSION OF THIS BODY PANEL, THE CAR CANNOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN BECAUSE THE REAR STRUT IS BEING HELD IN PLACE BY ONLY A TINY PORTION OF THE STRUCTURAL PANEL. IF I HAD NOT LOCATED THIS DEFECT IN TIME, IT IS LIKELY THAT THE STRUT WOULD HAVE BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE FRAME WHILE DRIVING AND WOULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Structure, Apr 5, 2013
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THERE WAS A RATTLING NOISE. THE CONTACT STOPPED AND SAW THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL CAVED IN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 133,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 133,250. UPDATED 05/16/13 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS STRUCTURAL DAMAGE AT THE SHOCK MOUNT AND THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THIS CAUSED BANGING NOISE AND ALMOST CUT A HOLE IN THE STORAGE AREA. UPDATED 05/28/2013 *JS
Suspension, Structure, Mar 29, 2013
THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED TO THE POINT OF NON-DRIVABILITY. THIS IS A SINCERE SAFETY ISSUE. NO NOTICE OF THE PROBLEM UNTIL THE "RUBBERIZED" COATING PEALED AWAY TO SHOWCASE THE MASSIVE RUST HOLES. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Mar 28, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE WHEEL WELL. IN ADDITION, WHENEVER THE CONTACT TRAVELED OVER A ROAD BUMP, THERE WAS A LOUD BANG FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THE VEHICLE WAS DETERMINED TO BE UNFIT TO DRIVE. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE DEALER DEEMED THE VEHICLE UNFIT TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE STRUT AND WHEEL WELL WERE DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT IT WAS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WOULD DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 97,000. KMJ *TR THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING, HE HIT A LARGE POT HOLE, AND THEN HE HEARD A HUGE BANG FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. HE THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT, SO AS HE CONTINUED TO DRIVE, THE NOISE BECAME WORSE. WHEN HE ARRIVED HOME, HE OPENED THE COMPARTMENT AND FOUND THE INSIDE WAS DAMP WITH WATER. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, HE NOTICED HE COULD SEE THROUGH THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE INTO THE STREET THROUGH A NEWLY FORMED HOLE IN THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL. THE CRACK STARTED AT THE REAR OF THE TIRE WELL TO ABOUT THE MIDDLE OF THE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT FORD DIDN'T WANT TO CLAIM ANY RESPONSIBILITY. THE RUST WAS IN AN AREA THAT NOBODY NOTICED, AS IT WAS BEHIND THE SEALER THAT WAS OUT IN THE TIRE WELLS OF VEHICLES IN THE NORTHCAST. FORD INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, AND INFORMED THE CONSUMER, IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE, AS THE SUSPENSION WAS COMPROMISED. THE STRUT WAS VERY LOOSE AND HE WITNESSED THE CRACK GET EVEN BIGGER, AS HE TRIED TO DRIVE IT BACK FROM THE DEALER. ALSO, THE CONSUMER HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE REVERSE LIGHTS FLICKERING ON AND OFF. WHEN HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, HE WAS INFORMED A NEW SWITCH WAS NEEDED. HE DECLINED THE REPLACEMENT. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT MAY HAVE BEEN A SYMPTOM OF THE RUST AND THE WIRES GETTING WET. UPDATED 12/04/13
Suspension, Structure, Wheels, Mar 27, 2013
FORD ESCAPE 2005 REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT. I NOTICED SLIGHT STRUT SOUNDING NOISE IN THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL FOR A WEEK. I CHECKED TO MAKE SURE NOTHING WAS RATTLING IN THE TRUNK OR WHERE THE JACK MOUNTS. AFTER OPENING THE PLASTIC ACCESS COMPARTMENT TO THE JACK, THERE WAS A HOLE STRAIGHT THROUGH TO THE GROUND. I INSPECTED THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL AND SAW THE ENTIRE THING RUSTED OUT CLEAR ABOVE THE SHOCK/STRUT MOUNT. I CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND THERE WAS NO RECALL YET THE VEHICLE CAN ESSENTIALLY BE DEEMED UN-DRIVABLE AND A SAFETY HAZARD FOR THE ROAD. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Mar 26, 2013
THERE WAS BANGING IN THE RIGHT REAR. THE SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OFF THE INNER FENDER . THE INNER FENDER HAS SEVERE RUST AND PART OF THE FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH. THE INNER FENDER HAD TO BE REPLACED. A PORTION OF THE FRAME HAD TO BE REPLACED. A NEW SHOCK WAS NEEDED. THE FLOOR IN THE REAR OF THE CAR HAD TO BE REPAIRED FROM THE SHOCK HITTING INTO IT. ALL IN ALL $1,373.55 IN REPAIR. I HAVE PICTURES. I CONTACTED A LOCAL FORD DEALER WHO EXPLAINED THAT THE CAR IS 8 YEARS OLD AND WE HAVE SALT ON THE ROAD IN WINTER. I ALSO CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE WHO EXPLAINED THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR SUCH AN INCEDENT. AFTER LOOKING ON LINE I FOUND NUMEROUS SIMILAR EXPERIENCES WHICH LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THIS IS NOT CAUSED BY NORMAL USE. THE AFFECTED PARTS MUST NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY TREATED OR COATED OR SEALED OR SOMETHING. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Feb 10, 2013
THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL CORRODED COMPLETELY THROUGH THE METAL AND ENCOMPASSES THE ENTIRE UPPER SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTING POINT. NOTHING IS HOLDING THE UPPER SHOCK ABSORBER ATTACHMENT IN PLACE. *TR
Structure, Jan 16, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS DRIVING 40 MPH OVER A ROAD BUMP WHEN THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE COLLAPSED AND THE TIRE PENETRATED THROUGH THE FRAME AND INTO THE INTERIOR CABIN OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 169,447.
Structure, Jan 9, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE DOOR OPENED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER TO DETERMINE IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS FOR THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 165,319.
Suspension, Structure, Dec 19, 2012
MY DAUGHTERS 2005 ESCAPE STARTED MAKING A POUNDING NOISE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS. NOT BEING A MECHANIC I THOUGHT IT WAS A SHOCK ABSORBER. AFTER A CLOSER INSPECTION I SAW THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT WAS RUSTING AWAY FROM THE FRAME. I COULD ACTUALLY MOVE IT SLIGHTLY BY HAND. THE STRUCTURAL DAMAGE IS A HOLE ON THE INSIDE OF THE STORAGE AREA INSIDE THE VEHICLE. AFTER CHECKING THE DRIVER SIDE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT THERE IS ALSO A HOLE IN THE BODY IN THE REAR STORAGE COMPARTMENT RIGHT NEXT TO THE GASOLINE FILLER NECK TUBE. THIS IS A POTENTIAL TRAGEDY WAITING TO HAPPEN.PLEASE DO SOMETHING TO REMEDY THIS UNHEARD OF PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT.THIS TYPE OF DAMAGE SURELY TOOK A FEW YEARS TO PROGRESS THIS BAD.SAW A LOT OF OWNERS OF SAME VEHICLE WITH SIMILAR COMPLAINTS. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Wheels, Dec 11, 2012
TOOK ESCAPE TO MECHANIC AFTER LOUD BANGING HEARD. RIGHT WHEEL WELL HAS LARGE HOLE IN IT AND THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED THROUGH, SOURCE OF THE BANGING. MECHANIC STATED THAT THIS PROBLEM MOST LIKELY BEGAN PRIOR TO PURCHASE OF CAR. FORD FAILED TO INFORM US OF THIS PROBLEM AFTER MULTI-POINT INSPECTION 5 MONTHS AGO. CAR HAS HAD TWO OWNERS WITHIN SAME FAMILY. FORD QUOTED $2500 REPAIR WILL NOT REIMBURSE AND STATED THAT THE REPAIRS WOULD NOT EVEN BE COVERED BY FACTORY WARRANTY, BECAUSE IT IS NOT THE "BODY" OF THE CAR. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Wheels, Dec 11, 2012
MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS HAD A LOUD BANGING IN REAR PASSENGER SIDE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. I HAS ASSUMED THAT THE STRUT NEEDED REPLACED. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION MY MECHANIC AND I NOTICED A TERRIBLE AMOUNT OF RUST AND CORROSION TO REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL THAT HAS BOLTS ATTACHED TO STRUT. YOU CAN SEE INTO INTERIOR OF VEHICLE FROM OUTSIDE. I RESEARCHED RECALLS OF THESE PROBLEM AND FOUND NONE, ALTHOUGH THERE WERE SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. THIS SEEMS TO HAPPEN ONLY ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE ALTHOUGH HAS ME WORRIED ABOUT OTHER COMPLICATIONS THAT COULD ARISE. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE THAT THE FORD MOTOR CO. SHOULD ADDRESS POST HASTE. I FEAR THAT MY FAMILIES AND OTHERS LIVES ARE AT STAKE IF THIS PROBLEM IS NOT TAKEN CARE OF SOON. *TR
Structure, Dec 7, 2012
WAS DRIVING AND HEARD INCREASING NOISE AND CLUNKING FROM BACK OF VEHICLE. WHEN HOME, PULLED THE RIGHT REAR INSIDE PANEL IN THE HATCH AREA. FOUND RUST PERFORMATION SURROUNDING THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT. THIS RUST WAS EXTENSIVE ON THIS ONE ENTIRE PANEL BUT PERFORATED SURROUNDING THE SHOCK MOUNT AREA. I COULD SEE TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE SURROUNDING PANELS APPEARED UNAFFECTED. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO AL PIEMONTE FORD IN ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL. THE RIGHT REAR WHEELHOUSE PANEL HAD TO BE REPLACED AT A TOTAL COST OF $927.97. THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURAL FAILURE FOR A VEHICLE OF THIS AGE. I WAS GLAD I WAS NOT ON HIGHWAY WHEN IT FAILED. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Wheels, Nov 12, 2012
THE PASSENGER-SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH TO THE POINT WHERE YOU CAN SEE INTO THE CABIN, AND THE SHOCK/STRUT IS MOUNTED TO NOTHING AND IS POKING INTO MY TRUNK. THE METAL ALL AROUND THE MOUNT (OR WHERE IT SHOULD BE MOUNTED) IS COMPLETELY CORRODED AND RUSTED TO THE POINT OF BEING COMPLETELY DETACHED, AND THE SURROUNDING METAL IS STAMPED SO THIN TO BEGIN WITH THAT IT IS PLIABLE. THE SHOCK IS COMPLETELY INEFFECTIVE, AND MY CAR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB OF SAFETY ISSUES. I HAVE CONTACTEDFORD SEVERAL TIMES, AND FORD CANADA IS DENYING THAT THIS IS A SAFETY OR QUALITY ISSUE AND HAVE TAKEN NO RESPONSIBILITY; THEY REFUSE TO FIX MY CAR. I CANNOT FIND A RECALL AT PRESENT, HOWEVER THERE ARE NUMEROUS PEOPLE REPORTING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THEIR ESCAPES, 6 ALONE ON [XXX] AND 5 ON [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Suspension, Structure, Oct 14, 2012
HI- I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I BOUGHT IT USED. JUST RECENTLY I STARTED TO HEAR A BANGING IN THE BACK REAR OF THE CAB PART OF THE CAR. I FOUND OUT THE SHOCK MOUNTS ARE RUSTED OUT, AND I FEEL LIKE THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE CAR COULD FALL APART WHILE DRIVING OR CATCH FIRE. I RESEARCHED THIS AND FOUND IT A COMMON PROBLEM. *TR
Structure, Aug 17, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE WHEEL WELL BEGAN TO SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THERE WAS MASSIVE RUST IN THE AREA. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PERSONAL MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 130,000.
Suspension, Structure, Aug 15, 2012
THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL BODY AND FRAME HAS TOTALLY RUSTED AWAY LEAVING NO ANCHOR FOR THE SHOCK ABSORBER AND RENDERING THE CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE (SEE ATTACHED PICTURES). THIS DEFECT OCCURRED DESPITE THE VEHICLE BEING GARAGE KEPT, WELL MAINTAINED AND MAINTAINED ONLY BY A LICENSED FORD DEALERSHIP. HIGHLAND PARK FORD AND FORD MOTOR COMPANY KNOWINGLY AND/OR NEGLIGENTLY CONCEALED A KNOWN, MAJOR DEFECT FROM THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY SO AS TO AVOID HAVING TO REPAIR THE PRODUCT PER FORD'S EXPRESS WARRANTY. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Jun 14, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD NOISE WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHERE THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED AT THE PASSENGER REAR WELL AREA, WHICH WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND CAUSED THE BOLTS AND STRUTS TO CORRODED AND SEPARATE FROM THE WELL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED BUT WAS UNAWARE IF THE REPLACEMENT WAS DUE TO CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WELL WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 161,000. UPDATED 07/27/12 *BF UPDATED 08/02/12
Suspension, Structure, Wheels, Apr 28, 2012
2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH A RUSTED OUT RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AROUND THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT. I CHECKED WITH A FORD DEALER ABOUT ANY RECALLS, NONE. FORD MANAGER SAID THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN SUCH AN ISSUE AT LASCO FORD FENTON MI. (FORD EST. TO REPAIR WAS 3400.00) I STOPPED AT A COUPLE BODYSHOPS IN THE AREA AND THEY (KNEW) OF THIS PROBLEM AND COULD QUOTE ME THE PARTS NEEDED, ALONG WITH THE 25 HOURS TO REPLACE/REPAIR IT. MY ESCAPE IS 7 YEARS OLD AND HAS 115,000 MILES, HOWEVER I DON'T THINK THAT THE BODY STRUCTURE (IN WHEEL WELL) SHOULD HAVE RUSTED COMPLETELY AWAY (RIGHT SIDE ONLY?), LEAVING THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT FLAPPING BACK AND FORTH, MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE AND (NOT) DRIVABLE. THIS PROBLEM ENDED UP COSTING 2005.00 TO REPAIR. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. I CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THIS WAS THERE RESPONSE: I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING RUST ISSUES ON THE RIGHT REAR FENDER AND SHOCK MOUNTS OF YOUR VEHICLE. I APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED. I CAN ALSO SEE WHY YOU FEEL THIS IS A MIGHT BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE RESEARCH YOU MADE. PLEASE UNDERSTAND, WE SHARE ALL OF OUR VEHICLE CONCERN DOCUMENTATION WITH NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC AND SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) AND FORD ENGINEERING. TOGETHER, WE WORK TO FURTHER DETERMINE IF A RECALL OR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAMS (CSP) IS NEEDED FOR COMPONENT FAILURES. IF A RECALL OR CSP BECOMES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VEHICLE, YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED BY U.S. MAIL TO THE CURRENT ADDRESS WE HAVE ON FILE. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT NHTSA, WHICH IS THE FEDERAL AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS THE ONLY ORGANIZATION WITH THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER A RECALL OR CSP. IN ADDITION, I FOUND THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, FIELD SERVICE ACTIONS (RECALLS) / CSPS ON YOUR VEHICLE THAT WOULD PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR CURRENT CONCERN. FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Feb 5, 2012
2005 ESCAPE WITH A RUSTED OUT RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL AND SHOCK MOUNT. I CHECKED WITH ATCHINSON FORD ABOUT ANY RECALLS, NONE. I CALLED A COUPLE BODYSHOPS IN THE AREA. THEY KNOW OF THIS PROBLEM AND COULD QUOTE ME THE TWO PARTS NEEDED, ALONG WITH THE 15 HOURS TO REPLACE/REPAIR IT. THEY SAID THAT THEY FIXED 2004, 2005, & 2006 MODELS WITH THIS PROBLEM. TODAY I WENT OUT INTO OUR WORK PARKING LOT AND LOOKED AT OUR Q.C. MANAGER'S 2005 ESCAPE. AND WE FOUND THE SAME THING HAPPENING TO HIS. IF I COULD ATTACH PICTURES I WOULD. MY ESCAPE IS 7 YEARS OLD AND HAS 115,000 MILES, HOWEVER I DON'T THINK THAT THE BODY STRUCTURE SHOULD CORRODE AWAY, LEAVING THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT READY TO BREAK FREE MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESS. I EMAIL FORD AND THIS WAS THERE RESPONSE: I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING RUST ISSUES ON THE RIGHT REAR FENDER AND SHOCK MOUNTS OF YOUR VEHICLE. I APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED. I CAN ALSO SEE WHY YOU FEEL THIS IS A MIGHT BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE RESEARCH YOU MADE. PLEASE UNDERSTAND, WE SHARE ALL OF OUR VEHICLE CONCERN DOCUMENTATION WITH NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC AND SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) AND FORD ENGINEERING. TOGETHER, WE WORK TO FURTHER DETERMINE IF A RECALL OR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAMS (CSP) IS NEEDED FOR COMPONENT FAILURES. IF A RECALL OR CSP BECOMES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VEHICLE, YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED BY U.S. MAIL TO THE CURRENT ADDRESS WE HAVE ON FILE. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT NHTSA, WHICH IS THE FEDERAL AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS THE ONLY ORGANIZATION WITH THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER A RECALL OR CSP. IN ADDITION, I FOUND THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, FIELD SERVICE ACTIONS (RECALLS) / CSPS ON YOUR VEHICLE THAT WOULD PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR CURRENT CONCERN. FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR