Generation:
First Generation (2001-2007)
Model Years Covered:
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV
Primary Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra, Hyundai Santa Fe.
Vehicle Attributes:
Practicality, available AWD, comfortable ride, relatively spacious interior for its class, versatile for light off-roading and family use.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, professional-grade information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Ford Escape, enabling cost savings and empowering owners.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, lubrication system, powertrain control module (PCM).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, differentials, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake).
Electrical And Electronics:
Body control module (BCM), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, instrument cluster, anti-theft system, SRS (airbag) system.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, upholstery, chassis structure.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension repair, steering system diagnosis and repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repair, HVAC system repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) code interpretation, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) troubleshooting, component testing, circuit diagnosis, electrical system fault finding.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Extensive, covering from routine maintenance to complex component rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Options:
2.0L Zetec I4, 3.0L Duratec V6
2.0L Zetec I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 127 hp
2.0L Zetec I4 Torque:
Approx. 135 lb-ft
3.0L Duratec V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 201 hp
3.0L Duratec V6 Torque:
Approx. 200 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
2.0L Zetec:
Commonly identified by its Zetec designation.
3.0L Duratec:
Commonly identified by its Duratec designation.
Standard Transmission 2001-2004:
5-speed Manual (available on 2.0L models)
Standard Transmission 2005-2007:
No manual transmission offered for these later years in most markets.
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (4F50N)
AWD System:
Intelligent Variable Continuous All-Wheel Drive (i-4WD) system available on most models.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.1 inches
Length:
Approx. 171.7 - 174.7 inches (depending on model year and features)
Width:
Approx. 71.2 inches
Height:
Approx. 65.5 - 66.5 inches (depending on model)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 25.7 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 66.7 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2001-2004 models, tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2001-2004 models, tested)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (for models tested in this range)
ABS:
Standard on all models (typically 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS).
Traction Control:
Available, often linked with AWD systems.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger) standard. Side-impact airbags available as an option on some trims/years.
Rollover Sensor:
Feature integrated into ABS/stability control systems on later models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months, or based on oil life monitoring system if equipped.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 3-5 years, depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions.
Engine Oil Spec:
API Certified SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine and climate recommendations). Check manual for specific oil capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V (for automatic transmissions).
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Orange) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B44-D.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, especially on V6 models.
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of transmission shudder or slipping, particularly in earlier models.
Rear Suspension Components:
Wear in rear control arms and bushings leading to alignment issues or noise.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Problems with the EVAP system, such as a faulty purge valve or vent solenoid, leading to a Check Engine Light.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional leaks or noise from the power steering pump.
Ford SUV History:
Ford has a long history of producing SUVs, from the Bronco to the Explorer, establishing a strong presence in the segment.
Escape Platform:
Built on the Mazda GF-L platform, shared with the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2005 model year, with updated exterior styling, interior improvements, and powertrain enhancements (including the introduction of the 3.0L Duratec V6 as the primary engine option).
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City Assembly Plant, Claycomo, Missouri, USA.
Consumer Reports:
Mixed reviews over its lifespan, with some model years receiving better ratings than others, particularly regarding reliability.
Jd Power Dependability:
Varies by model year, with some years showing average to below-average dependability ratings, often related to electronic issues or powertrain components.
