2003 Ford Escape
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2003 Ford Escape. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
9 recalls name the 2003 Ford Escape. Newest first.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Remedy
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.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Loss of brake fluid can result in poor braking performance, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the liftgate IS left unlocked, there IS the potential that it may open during a crash.
Remedy
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.
On certain sport utility vehicles built with 3.0L V6 engines, the accelerator cable may prevent the throttle from returning to the idle position.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An unexpected increase in engine idle speed may increase stopping distance and may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the accelerator cable. the recall began on january 10, 2005. owners should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.
On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines, during deceleration, the engine can stall.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Should the engine stall, a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy
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.
Owner complaints
558 complaints43 involved a crash27 involved a fire31 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags · Engine
I was doordashing as it's my job and all of sudden my car starts not idling won't stay off od off switch that switch stayed consistently flickered either the engine or transmission is slipping or misfiring
- Electrical system
Never received a recall letter or notice
- Structure
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the front wheel would extend outward while turning the vehicle, braking, or during acceleration, causing the vehicle to slightly veer to the right. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side…
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the front wheel would extend outward while turning the vehicle, braking, or during acceleration, causing the vehicle to slightly veer to the right. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side control arm had slightly detached. The dealer informed the contact the failure was a result of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V165000 (Structure) and the vehicle was included; however, the fix needed exceeded the repair stated in the recall remedy. The dealer diagnosed that the front subframe was extremely rusted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened. The contact was also referred to NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The approximate failure mileage was 122,000.
- Electrical system · Service brakes, air › Antilock › Control unit/module
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, and while driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle was smoking. There were no warning lights illuminated. The owner disconnected the battery. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the owner…
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, and while driving at unknown speeds, the vehicle was smoking. There were no warning lights illuminated. The owner disconnected the battery. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the owner that the ABS module and wiring harness needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
- Suspension
Driver had uneasy feeling with stability of vehicle as if it was swaying. He got it looked at and was told he probably needed lower control arm and links to take care of the problem. After ordering parts, the vehicle, while driving to work, a loud popping sound was heard and then the vehicle…
Driver had uneasy feeling with stability of vehicle as if it was swaying. He got it looked at and was told he probably needed lower control arm and links to take care of the problem. After ordering parts, the vehicle, while driving to work, a loud popping sound was heard and then the vehicle dropped down and had to be towed home (thank God this didn't happen on the expressway). I then looked up any recalls on this vehicle and low and behold there was a recall on this year, make and model car BUT not on this VIN number (Ford's number for this recall is 14S02. Recall date 2014-04-02 Recall no.14V165000). This vehicle suddenly and dangerously broke down from this same problem, and has the same issue that was recalled by Ford on this make, model and year described in their recall (14S02) but the VIN number seems to say otherwise when I looked it up. This needs to be investgated before this happens to someone while driving in snow or rainy condtions or while driving on the expressway. Please investigate!
- Air bags
I had a rear end at fault collision that totaled my 2003 Ford Escape on Dec.19, 2021....not one air bag deflated (yes I was at fault) because I was the one whom ran into the back of a jeep.....I'm having neck pain and spasms from whiplash, just curious whu not 1 airbG in the whole car deflated?
- Unknown or other
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact's nephew stated while driving approximately 35 mph, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The contact pulled over and fire started coming from under the hood. The fire department was called out however, the fire was extinguished before they…
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. The contact's nephew stated while driving approximately 35 mph, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The contact pulled over and fire started coming from under the hood. The fire department was called out however, the fire was extinguished before they arrived. A fire report was filed. The vehicle was towed back to the contact's sister’s residence. The vehicle was diagnosed but was not repaired. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.
- Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
I was recently driving on the interstate and the gas pedal got stuck so the car started speeding up very fast and the brakes and emergency brake would not make it slow down. After this i found out there was a recall about this problem and it says the previous owner of the vehicle fixed it but it’s happened while i owned it so i don’t think it was fixed correctly.
- Power train · Steering · Vehicle speed control
Driving down the interstate coming from georgia, it would downshift suddenly without warning. I have not been able to drive it in about 4 months.i thought I had everything repaired, then my truck stopped pulling in drive at a red light. My safety neutral switch IS brand new and the position sensor. 10/12/2020 when problem arose after replacing sensors 02/09/2021 any ideas why it IS doing this?
- Power train
I have a 2003 ford escape and I have had to replace 2 of the shifter cables. The cables to allow the truck to go from prnd12.on the dashboard if the black bold square isn't around the p when I turn off the truck then I cannot take my key out of the ignition when parked.i do not want the vehicle to keep moving .
- Suspension
While replacing the control arms on my 2003 ford escape xlt 4X4 I noticed on the passenger side there was alot of corrosion so much so the control arm IS barely hanging on there IS a flat bar running from drivers side to passenger side which has been rendered useless because the bolt that IS used…
While replacing the control arms on my 2003 ford escape xlt 4X4 I noticed on the passenger side there was alot of corrosion so much so the control arm IS barely hanging on there IS a flat bar running from drivers side to passenger side which has been rendered useless because the bolt that IS used to hold it in place has nothing to bolt to this was supposed to fix the issue with corrosion well it hasn't its now gonna cost me god knows how much to fix I would like to know if this issue IS still covered under, the recall
- Suspension
Recall #14s02 (nhtsa campaign # 14v165000) covered replacement of lower control arm & ballpoint for every nearby state, but not virginia. Both lower control arms on my vehicle are corroded and in need of replacement, but there IS no open recall for my vin because 14s02 did not include virginia. Driving vehicle with corroded control arms IS deemed dangerous, but costs of replacing approach vehicle value.
- Power train
Vehicle moved forward when in reverse gear when I was trying to back up at work. I had to have people at work come help me pull the vehicle backwards to avoid crashing into the wall. It still only goes forward, even in reverse gear. It IS not safe to drive!!!
- Suspension
Ford escapes from the 2001 through 2004 model years for corrosion of the front subframe. The subframe carries the engine, transmission, steering gear and the front suspension, brakes and wheels ford says the corrosion can lead to separation of a control arm -- part of the suspension that holds…
Ford escapes from the 2001 through 2004 model years for corrosion of the front subframe. The subframe carries the engine, transmission, steering gear and the front suspension, brakes and wheels ford says the corrosion can lead to separation of a control arm -- part of the suspension that holds the wheel and tire in the right place I was told that this part needs to be replaced on my car. It's corroded by a mechanic. Than I read the USA today 2014 article. I was never notified. I just took video and pictures of the part. On my cell phone I can submitt. according to this article ford knew about this. What r my option to get the repair.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that while driving 25 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. Mark mclarty ford located at 4400 landers rd, north…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that while driving 25 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. Mark mclarty ford located at 4400 landers rd, north little rock, ar 72117, (501) 945-1200, was contacted and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with nhtsa campaign number: 15v606000 (power train) and 04v165000 (power train), however the vin was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 229,000.
- Power train
While my 2003 escape was in motion, the vehicle jerked and kicked ad I pressed accelerating on a heavy city highway. The vehicle couldn't drive or move forward. I believe it IS the transmission went out. The gears were slipping or not going in position. I was using more gas, having a recall on…
While my 2003 escape was in motion, the vehicle jerked and kicked ad I pressed accelerating on a heavy city highway. The vehicle couldn't drive or move forward. I believe it IS the transmission went out. The gears were slipping or not going in position. I was using more gas, having a recall on transmission was announced on 2003 ford escape. Recall ID 234608 on powertrain automatic transmission. And recall ID 234607 automatic transmission: gear position indication. Recall ID 234607 I called the ford service center. I was told no recalls under my vin number. I asked for assistance to fix my transmission. No was answer. I took my car back to place I purchased it carter's radiator, purchased 5-8-2020. Carter radiator did diagnose, found it was the transmission. I was told car will not go into gears. 4TH gear IS in-operative. Ony 1ST & 2ND gears operating. To repair faulty transmission will cost $3900, but because I purchased vehicle from them, repair cost IS $2400.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that while entering the driveway to park, there was smoke present. The contact exited the vehicle and opened the hood when a fire was discovered. The contact grabbed a water hose and extinguished the fire. The ABS module connector was…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that while entering the driveway to park, there was smoke present. The contact exited the vehicle and opened the hood when a fire was discovered. The contact grabbed a water hose and extinguished the fire. The ABS module connector was melted along with wires. At the time of the incident the contact was pregnant and had her 4-year-old daughter in the vehicle. No injuries were sustained. The fire department was not contacted. No police report was filed. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but there was a recording stating that no calls were being accepted at the moment. The local dealer (unknown dealer information) was then called where they mentioned that nhtsa action number: pe06048 (service brakes, hydraulic) was previously performed on the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
- Electrical system · Power train
Sense we bought this 2003 ford escape we have replaced 5 altenators transmission problems .3 neutral safety switches. And still having problems the transmission problems are the same reason for the recall but my car IS just a month newer go figure
- Service brakes · Wheels
I brought braces drums for back wheels still idonot have braces they donot work took to auto place was told to contact dealer
- Suspension
The mechanic told me that the sub frame was broken and would be about $1000 to replace. I was driving down a dirt road , it was a little bumpy and the steering wheel stopped working due to the frame breaking. The 2003 ford escape has 124,000 miles on it. Luckily nobody was hurt, but I can't believe the frame of n SUV could break so easily. *tr
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that upon taking his vehicle to an independent mechanic to be inspected, the mechanic discovered severe corrosion on the driver side rear wheel tubular frame. The mechanic informed him that the failure could cause the collapse of the…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact stated that upon taking his vehicle to an independent mechanic to be inspected, the mechanic discovered severe corrosion on the driver side rear wheel tubular frame. The mechanic informed him that the failure could cause the collapse of the driver side rear wheel. Prior to the discovery, the vehicle had been repaired under nhtsa campaign number: 14v165000(structure). The contact spoke with germain ford of columbus (7250 sawmill rd, columbus, oh 43235, (614) 356-9743) where he was informed that the dealer was not authorized to repair the vehicle. The contact was then referred to the manufacturer who then referred him to nhtsa for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 254,000.
- Unknown or other
My transmission has went out the previous owners had a transmission put in 2013 with a three year warranty and I bought the car 2019 and it went out 2 months later. it will back up but won't go forward.
- Suspension
My car had a recall #14s02 for a rusted subframe. Fords fix was to put a $20 piece of metal that they call a reinforcement brace. This reinforced brace has failed and the original problem has reoccurred. The original recall problem was that the car was almost impossible to steer and could cause…
My car had a recall #14s02 for a rusted subframe. Fords fix was to put a $20 piece of metal that they call a reinforcement brace. This reinforced brace has failed and the original problem has reoccurred. The original recall problem was that the car was almost impossible to steer and could cause serious accidents. Now ford IS telling my there IS nothing they can do since they put the cheap reinforcement brace! Now I have an undriveable vehicle that has the same problem as the original recall! I believe they should be responsible to fix the problem since what they did to fix the recall has literally failed again!
- Structure · Suspension
TL* the contact's mother owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact's mother received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v165000 (structure) the vehicle was repaired at hopkins ford of elgin inc. Located at (1045 e chicago st, elgin, il 60120) however, the failure was experienced. The contact…
TL* the contact's mother owns a 2003 ford escape. The contact's mother received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v165000 (structure) the vehicle was repaired at hopkins ford of elgin inc. Located at (1045 e chicago st, elgin, il 60120) however, the failure was experienced. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds the vehicle moved from left to right independently. The contact stated that it was difficult to control the vehicle. The contact stated that there were no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the driver and passenger's side control arms and the front subframe needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. While driving approximately 10 to 20 mph, the vehicle hesitated and the air bag indicator flashed on and off. The vehicle was taken to beach ford (888-869-6079, located at 2717 virginia beach blvd, virginia beach, va 23452) and the contact was informed that…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 ford escape. While driving approximately 10 to 20 mph, the vehicle hesitated and the air bag indicator flashed on and off. The vehicle was taken to beach ford (888-869-6079, located at 2717 virginia beach blvd, virginia beach, va 23452) and the contact was informed that there was no recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle failed inspection due to the air bag indicator. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 193,481.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Stuck Throttle
In a letter dated July 25, 2012 Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR), NHTSA Recall No. 12V-353 to NHTSA identifying a safety defect involving inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector, which could result in a stuck throttle condition.The…
In a letter dated July 25, 2012 Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR), NHTSA Recall No. 12V-353 to NHTSA identifying a safety defect involving inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector, which could result in a stuck throttle condition.The vehicles involved are model year (MY) 2001 through MY 2004 Ford Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed (cruise) control.A redesigned engine cover was implemented in production beginning in MY 2005, which provided additional clearance of the speed control cable to the engine cover.Similarly on July 26, 2012 Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) on behalf of Mazda Motor Corporation of Hiroshima, Japan submitted a DIR to NHTSA, NHTSA Recall No. 12V-357, identifying the safety defect described above in MY 2001 through MY 2006 and MY 2008 Mazda Tribute vehicles (no Tribute vehicles were produced in MY 2007) equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control.Unlike the Ford Escape recall scope, the Mazda Tribute scope is broader as Mazda Tribute vehicles incorporated a similar engine cover design as related to the clearance to the speed control cable in MYs 2001 through 2006 and MY 2008.The failure report summary above reflects reports identified by ODI in review of data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and reports submitted to Ford and to Mazda.ODI identified 44 reports likely related to the safety defect described in the DIRs; 39 involving Ford Escape vehicles and 5 involving Mazda Tribute vehicles. This Preliminary Evaluation is closed.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10116267, 10128545, 10128681, 10137520, 10153327, 10165007, 10199728, 10234846, 10335779, 10466261, and 10468307.
- Cruise Control Cable
On July 8, 2012, The Center for Auto Safety has petitioned NHTSA to open defect investigations on Model Year (MY) 2002 ? 2004 Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles with certain cruise control cables.The Center for Auto Safety has also petitioned for a hearing to address whether Ford Motor Company (Ford) and Mazda…
On July 8, 2012, The Center for Auto Safety has petitioned NHTSA to open defect investigations on Model Year (MY) 2002 ? 2004 Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles with certain cruise control cables.The Center for Auto Safety has also petitioned for a hearing to address whether Ford Motor Company (Ford) and Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) met their obligations to notify owners and correct a defect in certain Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles.The petitions to open investigations are denied as unnecessary and the petitions to conduct hearingsare denied.ODI IDs referenced above are: 10109921, 10116267, 10116574,10121108, 10125928, 10128545, 10130133,10137520, 10153327, 10155295, 10155817, 10159048, 10164205, 10165007, 10177337, 10184382, 10195378,10199728, 10201424, 10203178, 10204179, 10207677, 10214472, 10218668, 10222869, 10229600, 10255417,10256387, 10258046, 10259777, 10260591, 10266150, 10273613, 10291508, 10303282, 10303434, 10316154,10321828, 10323339, 10325817, 10331278, 10334038, 10335779, 10341773, 10342450, 10345004, 10363982,10370338, 10379444, 10432635, 10451652, 10466261, 891605, 10053779, 10125132, 10146998, 10149101,10160004, 10161052, 10170988, 10178811, 10204780, 10215610, 10222996, 10239609, 10252790, 10253666,10262773, 10264280, 10280669, 10289784, 10294932, 10312464, 10316440, 10343662, 10354530, 10413665,10461195
- Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion Audit
On November 18, 2010, NHTSA's Recall Management Division (RMD) opened an audit query (AQ10-001) to investigate recall remedy completion by rental car companies on safety recall campaigns.It was expected to provide the agency an indication of how completely and how quickly rental car fleets perform necessary…
On November 18, 2010, NHTSA's Recall Management Division (RMD) opened an audit query (AQ10-001) to investigate recall remedy completion by rental car companies on safety recall campaigns.It was expected to provide the agency an indication of how completely and how quickly rental car fleets perform necessary recall-related remedies on the vehicles owned and then rented/leased for use on the roadways.RMD queried three (3) major motor vehicle manufacturers (Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors) and requested data regarding completion figures for fifteen (15) discreet safety recalls.Analysis of this data demonstrated that rental car recalls completion was neither complete nor consistent.The rental car companies representing the largest market share in the industry were then queried as to their respective policies for the rental, lease, and sale of vehicles with open recalls.The data and responses from the manufacturers and the rental car companies can be found in the document repository by accessing the ?Associated Documents link above.In December 2015, Congress enacted the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act.One section of the Act prohibits rental car companies from renting, leasing, or selling motor vehicles subject to open safety recalls.With the passage of the FAST Act and its prohibition, there is no continuing need for the agency to investigate rental car recall completions.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The agency reserves the right to open any future investigations, including audits of individual recalls, or groups of recalls, or rental car companies, to examine more closely safety recalls performance and completion issues in this area.
- Engine Compartment Fire
Ford and Mazda recalled model year (MY) 2001 through 2004 Ford Escape (07V-156) and Mazda Tribute (07V-157) vehicles due to non-crash fires or non-fire thermal events originating in the engine compartment at or near the ABS control module.Approximately 545,700 vehicles were subject to the initial safety recalls and…
Ford and Mazda recalled model year (MY) 2001 through 2004 Ford Escape (07V-156) and Mazda Tribute (07V-157) vehicles due to non-crash fires or non-fire thermal events originating in the engine compartment at or near the ABS control module.Approximately 545,700 vehicles were subject to the initial safety recalls and approximately 424,700 vehicles were serviced under those campaigns. The campaigns addressed potentially damaged, missing or misplaced seals in the ABS control module wiring harness electrical connector that could allow brake fluid to enter the connector, possibly resulting in corrosion, short-circuit, melting, smoke and/or fire.Since the recall, the agency is aware of 260 subject vehicles that have reportedly experienced non-crash fires or non-fire thermal events originating at or near the ABS control module in vehicles some time after being serviced under the campaign. The post-recall repair incident rates for MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles are 90.9 and 126.7 (normalized per 100,000 vehicles serviced under the recall campaigns), respectively.These rates are much higher than the post-recall repair incident rate for MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles, which are 5.0 and 3.7 per 100K, respectively.Similarly, the post-recall repair key-off fire incident rates in the MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles is 54.3 per 100K, compared to 0.5 per 100K for the MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles.The agency is aware of 12 key-off fire incidents, all involving MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles, where the vehicle was parked inside a structure when the fire started.In five of those incidents, the fire spread from the vehicle to the structure itself.Ford has identified the brake master cylinder reservoir cap in certain MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles as a potential source for brake fluid leaks that could affect ABS module connector integrity.The reservoir caps used on the MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles are reportedly an improved design from those used on the earlier models.By letter dated January 4, 2012, Ford notified the agency that it would conduct another safety recall (identified by NTHSA Recall No. 12V-005 and Ford Recall No. 11S24) of certain MY 2001 and 2002 Ford Escape vehicles to perform a more thorough remedy to address the risk of fire originating at the ABS control module.In addition to double-checking the ABS control module wiring harness electrical connector weather seal (which should have been addressed under the previous recall campaign), Ford will replace brake master cylinder reservoir caps to address the leaking cap problem and reduce the risk of brake fluid entering the subject electrical connector.Ford will also modify the electrical system such that the ABS control module is de-energized when the ignition key is switched off to further reduce the risk of an unattended vehicle fire in units that may have sustained some small loss of connector integrity that may not be evident upon visual examination.Similarly, Mazda notified the agency by letter dated January 19, 2012, that it would also conduct a safety recall (identified by NTHSA Recall No. 12V-016 and Mazda Recall No. 6712A) of certain MY 2001 and 2002 Mazda Tribute vehicles.Ford estimates repair parts will be available beginning the second quarter of 2012. Until recall repairs are made both Ford and Mazda are advising owners of affected vehicles to reduce the safety concern by parking their vehicles outdoors away from structures to prevent a potential fire from spreading.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
- Engine compartment fire
In letters dated march 30, 2007, ford motor company (ford) and mazda north american operations (mazda) notified the agency that they will conduct recalls 07v-156 and 07v-157, respectively, to remedy a safety defect that may result in fire in a wiring connector used in certain model year (my) 2001-2004 ford escape and…
In letters dated march 30, 2007, ford motor company (ford) and mazda north american operations (mazda) notified the agency that they will conduct recalls 07v-156 and 07v-157, respectively, to remedy a safety defect that may result in fire in a wiring connector used in certain model year (my) 2001-2004 ford escape and mazda tribute vehicles equipped with abs.the recall campaign prescribes an inspection of the subject components, which shall be repaired or replaced only if necessary.if the subject vehicle passes the visual inspection then the recall instructs the technician to apply electrical grease (ford part number XG-12) to the ABS module connector and verify system operation.to date, approximately 388,500 subject vehicles (71.7% of the total recall population) have been serviced under the recall campaign, the vast majority of which (373,985) passed the visual inspection and received only the electrical grease applied to the ABS module connector. The agency IS aware of at least 86 unique subject vehicles that have reportedly experienced non-crash fire incidents originating in the engine compartment at or near the ABS control module some time after the vehicle was serviced under the subject recall.the manufacturer has provided some information that indicates certain vehicles were improperly serviced under the subject recall as evidenced by the factory wire tie-wrap not being removed from the wiring harness (which indicates a proper inspection could not have been performed) and by incorrect grease being applied, incorrect amounts of grease, and even instances where no grease was applied to the ABS module connector.also, there remain some questions regarding the severity of the reported fire incidents.the manufacturer contends that most reported fires were actually non-fire thermal events with damage limited to the subject components and that most vehicles are repaired and returned to service.however, the trend appears to be ongoing with 5 reported incidents having occurred in the past 6 months.accordingly, this recall query has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further assess the effectiveness of the recall remedy.
- Engine compartment fire
The office of defects investigation (odi) received a defect petition dated march 5, 2009 alleging that the petitioner never received the recall remedy for 07v-156 and that, as a result, the petitioner's my2003 ford escape caught fire at the ABS control module.in response to odi follow-up, the manufacturer verified…
The office of defects investigation (odi) received a defect petition dated march 5, 2009 alleging that the petitioner never received the recall remedy for 07v-156 and that, as a result, the petitioner's my2003 ford escape caught fire at the ABS control module.in response to odi follow-up, the manufacturer verified that the petitioner's vehicle had in fact received service related to safety recall 07v156 - a fact later corroborated by the petitioner.circumstances of the fire experienced in the petitioner's remedied vehicle indicate that the remedy was ineffective.additional review by odi identified an additional 6 similar (alleged to have originated in the engine compartment at or near the ABS control module ) non-crash fire incidents in subject vehicles known to have received the recall remedy.accordingly, a recall query (rq09-002) has been opened to assess the effectiveness of the recall remedy.
- Engine compartment fire
In letters dated march 30, 2007, ford and mazda notified nhtsa that they will conduct safety recalls to remedy a safety defect that may result in fire in a wiring connector used in certain model year (my) 2001-2004 ford escape and mazda tribute sport utility vehicles equipped with abs.recall 07v-156 involves…
In letters dated march 30, 2007, ford and mazda notified nhtsa that they will conduct safety recalls to remedy a safety defect that may result in fire in a wiring connector used in certain model year (my) 2001-2004 ford escape and mazda tribute sport utility vehicles equipped with abs.recall 07v-156 involves approximately 446,450 my 2001-2004 escape vehicles manufactured from october 22, 1999 through january 23, 2004.recall 07v-157 involves approximately 95,300 my 2001-2004 tribute vehicles manufactured from april 17, 2000 through december 19, 2003. According to the manufacturers, the electrical wiring connectors to the ABS electronic control module were manufactured with wire seals missing or improperly installed in some wiring harnesses used in the recall populations.this may allow environmental contaminants such as water or brake fluid to enter the ABS electrical connector interface and cause corrosion of the electrical terminals.such corrosion may result in an illuminated ABS telltale, an open circuit, and/or an engine compartment fire originating at the electrical connector.to remedy the defect, the manufacturers will inspect the connectors for seal integrity.if a seal integrity issue IS identified the vehicle will be repaired as necessary.all vehicles will have dielectric grease applied to the connectors to further reduce the possibility of contaminants entering the electrical connectors. To date, odi IS aware of 120 non-crash related fire incidents alleged to have originated in the engine compartment at or near the ABS electronic control module in the subject vehicles, which represent approximately 80 percent of the recall population.of the 120 alleged fires, 6 are alleged to have occurred when the vehicle was parked inside a garage structure.in 4 incidents, complainants alleged the structure or adjoining structure(s) suffered smoke damage, while in 2 incidents, the alleged fires caused more extensive damage totaling approximately $50,000 each.there are no known injuries or fatalities related to the alleged defect.based on the ford and mazda recalls, this investigation IS closed.
- Engine stalling
Summary:the petitioner alleges that after having the recall remedy performed on her model year (my) 2001 ford escape, it continued to exhibit an intermittent stall condition.consequently, she petitioned the agency to examine the adequacy of the recall remedy for safety recall 04v-165.on april 5, 2004, ford motor…
Summary:the petitioner alleges that after having the recall remedy performed on her model year (my) 2001 ford escape, it continued to exhibit an intermittent stall condition.consequently, she petitioned the agency to examine the adequacy of the recall remedy for safety recall 04v-165.on april 5, 2004, ford motor company (ford) notified the agency that it would conduct a recall of 321,903 my 2001 through 2002 and certain 2003 my escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L engines manufactured between january 21, 2000 and september 11, 2002 at the kansas city assembly plant.these vehicles exhibited an intermittent engine stall during decelerations at vehicle speeds below 40 mph due to an excessively rich fuel-air mixture in the engine.as a remedy, ford dealers are instructed to reprogram the powertrain control module (pcm) to a revised calibration to prevent the stalling condition. In its july 23, 2004 response to the office of defects investigation?s (odi) july 1, 2004 information request letter, ford states that as of june 30, 2004 the recall remedy has been completed on 174,014 vehicles.additionally, only a small number of vehicle owners (less than .1%) who have had the remedy performed on their vehicles have had additional deceleration stalling issues.ford also states that the pcm has to ?learn? The new program and that any subsequent stalling would be temporary.to verify ford?s claim, odi conducted a random survey of 20 complainants who had the remedy performed on their vehicles and who experienced a subsequent stalling event.odi found that most of them had isolated stalling problems, supporting ford?s allegation that the pcm must ?learn? The new program.in addition, in a phone conversation with odi, the petitioner stated that a ford engineer found a faulty ignition switch as the cause of the stalling in her vehicle.thus, there IS no evidence at this time to suggest the recall remedy IS inadequate.for the foregoing reasons, further expenditure of the agency?s investigative resources on the issue raised by the petitioner does not appear to be warranted and the petition IS denied.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10205036Safety recall 14S02 - Corrosion at forward attachment of lower control arm - requests for recall service action
- 101837722001-2004 Escape vehicles Safety Recall 14S02 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where a corrosion-related separation of the forward attachment of the lower control arm (LCA) from the subframe may occur. Separation of the LCA from the subframe may result in diminished vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- 10056443Ford: the lower control arm (lca) forward attachment will separate from subframe, causing diminishing directional control, due to operating in high corrosion areas for extended period of time. Model 2001-2004 escape.
- 10020067Pcm failure - electrical accessories intermittent - inoperative.
- 10019382Camshaft tick noise - 3.0L 4V engine only.
- 10019076Replace timing belt idler pulley during 2.0L zetec engine cylinder head replacement - service tip.
- 10018745Wds cop kit diagnostic tip - coil on plug (cop) ignition systems - engine misfire or rough running.
- 10018063Restraint system - safety belt buckle and pretensioner diagnostic trouble code (dtc) b1877 and/or b1881.
- 10014302Side air bag diagnostic trouble code (dtc) b1994 or b1998.
- 10014265Serviceability of instrument panel register vents.
- 10014138Safety belt retraction speed.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10014062Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10014052Safety belt buckle and pretensioner diagnostic trouble code (dtc) b1877, b1881, b1885 or b1886.
- 10013426High airflow from defroster vents when in floor or floor defrost modes.
- 10013423Condensation inside the foglamps.
- 10013422Air bag warning lamp on .
- 10013406Wheel speed sensor removal tip.
- 10013396Steering gear squeak - when turning the steering wheel during low speed parking maneuvers.
- 10013369General power train control module (pcm) programming procedures.
- 10013366Steering drift/pull - improved diagnostic and repair procedure - service tip.
- 10013116Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated - system lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) - service tips. Various models including 2004 f-series.
- 10013077Various 2003 vehicles equipped with premium CD-6 radios - CD-6 shuffle feature between discs not available.
- 10013067False alarm activation.
- 10013060Climate control a/c service tech tips.
- 10012954Safety belt web stop button service.
- 10011344A final drive whine at 25-45 mph (40-72 km/h).
- 10011162Engine misfire or running - coil on plug (cop) ignition systems - wds cop kit diagnostic tips. To include various 2005 models. * ar this article 04161 supersedes tsb 03-14-04.
- 10011159Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10010731Multiple vehicles - fuel level indication concerns - service tip. Various models including 2005 super duty f-series, excursion, expedition, explorer, mountaineer and aviator.
- 10009323Transmission control indicator lamp (tcil) on with diagnostic trouble code p1783 and/or p0733 cold climate shift/engagement concerns with a CD4E transaxle.
- 10009321Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns.
- 10008599Cimate control system odor.
- 10008598V-6 badge discontinued.
- 10008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock.
- 10008347Squeak, creak or rattle type noise from rear liftgate area.
- 10008343Park brake adjustment / contact request.
- 10008340Trailer tow harness installation / service tip.
- 10008339Click on turns.
- 10008336Brake squeal / engineering contract request.
Every Ford Escape model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.