🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Escape

Year:

2003

Generation:

First Generation (2001-2007)

Platform:

CD2 Platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Ford Escape 2003 served as a compact SUV, popular for its versatility, fuel efficiency (relative to larger SUVs), and practicality. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops servicing this segment.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and Nissan Xterra in the growing compact SUV market of the early 2000s.

Key Features:

This manual is presented as a direct alternative to factory service manuals, offering detailed, step-by-step instructions, critical specifications, and diagnostic information crucial for accurate repairs and maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance for the 2003 Ford Escape. Includes diagnostics, troubleshooting, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, and reinstallation procedures.

Page Count:

Extensive (specific number not provided in product info, typical for factory-level manuals)

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual (akin to a Factory Service Manual/Workshop Manual)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (2.0L Duratec, 3.0L Vulcan V6), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (4-speed Automatic AX4N, 5-speed Manual M50D-R1), Drivetrain (Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive), Suspension (Front Independent MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent Multi-link), Steering System, Braking System (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), ABS, HVAC System, Body Electrical (Lighting, Power Accessories, Instrumentation), Restraints System (Airbags), Body and Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Wheels and Tires.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, troubleshooting diagnostic charts, component removal and installation, detailed repair procedures for all major systems, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, component testing, fluid capacities and types, specifications for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and steering.

Technical Depth:

Designed for professional technicians but provides adequate data for DIY mechanics. Covers fundamentals to advanced repair procedures, including engine internal repairs, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including powertrain control, ABS, HVAC, and body electronics. Includes diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and troubleshooting flowcharts.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams are included for all circuits, facilitating diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.

Specifications:

Critical specifications are provided for all components and systems, including torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and engine timing specifications.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides are presented in a clear, logical format to help diagnose common and complex problems efficiently.

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed instructions for the removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation of virtually every component on the vehicle.

Body And Frame:

Procedures for body panel alignment, rust repair, structural component repair, and interior/exterior trim removal and installation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Full Printable. High resolution for clear visibility of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Zoom Capability:

YES (Zoom IN/OUT supported)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for unzipping downloaded file)

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Searchability:

PDF format allows for text searching of keywords, procedures, and specifications, enhancing ease of use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L DOHC Duratec I4 (127 hp @ 5400 rpm, 135 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm)

Optional Engine:

3.0L OHV Vulcan V6 (201 hp @ 6000 rpm, 207 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm)

Performance I4:

Horsepower: 127 hp, Torque: 135 lb-ft

Performance V6:

Horsepower: 201 hp, Torque: 207 lb-ft

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-port fuel injection.

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug (COP) technology for Duratec engines; traditional distributor for Vulcan V6.

Engine Code I4:

ES (2.0L)

Engine Code V6:

3.0L V6

Cooling System:

Pressurized system with a radiator, coolant reservoir, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan(s). Capacity: approx. 7.6 quarts (7.2L) for 2.0L, 8.5 quarts (8.0L) for 3.0L.

Lubrication System:

Wet sump system with an oil pan, oil pump, oil filter, and oil galleries. Oil capacity: approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3L) for 2.0L, 5.0 quarts (4.7L) for 3.0L.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (M50D-R1)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AX4N)

Transmission Features:

Available in FWD and AWD configurations. The AX4N is a electronically controlled transmission with overdrive. Manual includes clutch system servicing.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Ford specifies SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil for the M50D-R1 manual transmission.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mercon V Automatic Transmission Fluid is specified for the AX4N automatic transmission. Fluid capacity: approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8L) for initial fill.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

173.8 inches

Exterior Width:

70.2 inches

Exterior Height:

66.2 inches

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.5 inches

Curb Weight I4 FWD:

3,413 lbs

Curb Weight V6 AWD:

3,653 lbs

Cargo Volume:

66.3 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)

Tire Size Example:

Commonly equipped with P215/70R16 or P235/70R16 tires.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

NHTSA front-impact ratings: 5 stars (driver and passenger). IIHS: Good rating in frontal offset crash test.

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), available Traction Control System (TCS) on AWD models.

Passive Features:

Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.

Brake System:

Front: Ventilated discs. Rear: Drums (standard) or discs (optional on some AWD models). Fluid: DOT 3.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Base models featured a basic AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims offered an optional premium audio system with a subwoofer and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS and optional traction control. Cruise control was commonly equipped.

Connectivity:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Auxiliary input for audio devices may have been available on some premium sound systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Engine oil and filter change: every 5,000 miles or 6 months. Tire rotation: every 7,500 miles. Air filter replacement: every 30,000 miles. Spark plug replacement: every 100,000 miles (on Duratec engines, check manual for specific type and interval).

Fluid Specifications:

Engine Oil: SAE 5W-20 (API service classification SG or higher). Coolant: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green). Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Power Steering Fluid: Mercon V ATF. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mercon V ATF. Manual Transmission Fluid: SAE 75W-90 GL-4 Gear Oil.

Known Issues:

Common issues include: Clogged PCV valve leading to oil leaks or rough idle, rear shock absorber failure, AC compressor failure, occasional transmission shifting problems, and front suspension component wear (e.g., tie rod ends).

Torque Specs Example:

Wheel Lug Nuts: 100 lb-ft (135 Nm). Spark Plugs (2.0L Duratec): 15-20 lb-ft (20-27 Nm).

Filter Part Numbers Example:

Oil Filter: Motorcraft FL820S (or equivalent). Air Filter: Motorcraft FA1737 (or equivalent).

Spark Plug Type I4:

Iridium spark plugs (e.g., Motorcraft AWSF32Y or equivalent) recommended for 100,000-mile service life on Duratec.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Ford, an American automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles. The Escape marked Ford's entry into the burgeoning compact SUV segment.

Model Evolution:

The 2003 model year represents a continuation of the first generation of the Ford Escape, which debuted for the 2001 model year. It was developed in partnership with Mazda and shares its platform with the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner.

Production:

Ford Escape production began in 2000. The 2003 model was manufactured at the Ford Motor Company's Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Ford Escape was recognized for its value and practicality. It was a consistent top seller in the compact SUV segment, indicating positive consumer reception.

Ratings:

Consumers Digest named the Ford Escape an 'All-time Best Buy' in the SUV category for 2003.