Ford Escape

currey

I've got a Tribute, same engine tweaked a little differently, and my last tank which was mainly city driving was 18.7mpg. The best I've done on hwy driving was 22 mpg, however, I was going around 85-90 mph on the turnpike. I don't think these numbers are bad as the Tribute is rated 18/24. On the other hand I've heard some really dreadful reports from other owners of the Escape/Tribute who have been getting around 13-15 mpg for city driving. Hope this helps.

scottf2

Thanks currey. I am also considering the Tribute. No, those figures aren't too bad. I think that on average one will get a bit below EPA mpg anyway.

currey

The lowest mpg I have received is 17.049 mpg. (Yes, I do demonstrate certain OCD qualities, however, I was concerned about the mpg on the Tribute so I have been keeping a log regarding every tank of gas). BUT, I really, really like the v6 and sometimes, leaving the toll booth, I like to let her a little loose. It is always nice to pull away for the other cars. The down side is I can feel the engine sucking down the petrol and there goes my mpg.

As I am always curious as to others mpg statistics I hope others will follow up your request. Additionally, for the 3000+ miles I have driven (about 1/3 hwy), I have averaged 19.564 mpg.

steve234

My wife works for SSA. It is not illegal to ask for a SSN. It is illegal to demand a SSN for any purpose other than employemt or financial transaction. Employers and financial institutions require it for tax purposes, but cannot divulge it under penalty. Many states ask for the SSN to use as a driver's license number. You do not have to give them it and they will issue you another number. Most experts and SSA will tell you to do that. Some businesses will demand a driver's license for identification and may get the SSN from the driver's license. This is not illegal and is how many SSNs get ripped off. It is up to the individual to protect theirself

kayakr

First - may thanks for the excellent information from those of you on the board regarding the X-plan...it worked perfectly! As you've said, the price was about $100- under invoice - without a dealer fee. It was the easiest, most pleasant car purchase I've ever made. A Wedgewood Blue / Parchmet XLT V-6 will call my house it's home as soon as we pick it up tomorrow. Ford is surely working to improve it's image in customer service.
Now, on to the accessories... RR

kayakr

With the Towing package, is an oil cooler included, or is it just the wiring harness & hitch? My fleet sales rep said he thinks that the V-6 comes with an oil cooler, but I'm almost sure that the second cooler near the radiator is a transmission cooler. Also, does anyone know where to find the hard plastic/plexy hood wind deflectors & window vent covers? RR

scottf2

Although the x-plan is an outstanding deal...I can't quit thinking about the message you posted on April 27th #548. You said the dealers in your area were selling the XLT V6 for 19,988. I would love to hear more about this please. Where are you at--or where are the dealers located? thanks

scottf2

When you said XLT V6--surely you meant 4X2?? thanks

kayakr

Go to the dealer and try to get that Escape advertised for $19,998 with no other costs - won't happen in a V-6/auto. You will add approx. $400 for dealer fees and $540 for delivery - not negotiable. The car through the X-plan will be at $20,245 - V-6/auto with 16" wheels. That is exactly what my Escape came to...plus tax, tags, title - nothing else. I figure that is approx. $1920- under MSRP (about $100- under invoice). No dealer fees. Delivery fees included in that - this cost is not negotiable. Good luck - RR

cugolfn

My leather seats are very soft and comfortable. They were a little stiff when I picked it up a month ago but they loosened up quickly.

Tony
Love my Escape!

cugolfn

Thank you for backing me up on this. I really apeciate it.

Tony

cugolfn

Mary,
Thanks for the info! Sounds like mine. How was the mileage on your first tank? Mine is slowly improving. I started at about 16 mpg and the last tank was 22 mpg. I hope it keeps getting better!

Tony
V6, 4x4, leather, tinted windows, side step bars, moon roof, bug deflector and spoiler

scape2

Thomason Ford and Courtesy Ford were selling XLT V6 4x4 Escapes for 19,988 in last Saturdays Oregonian paper.

kayakr

If this price is truely correct, please set the deal up for me and I'll fly out there from Florida to buy one...sight unseen! This price is lower than I got my 2wd XLT V-6 for by about $200-. That's also about $3,000- less than the same 4wd one can possibly be found here in central Florida for. Calculations... invoice for that is $21,682 according to Edmonds (which proved to be dead accurate according to the Fleet Rep that I dealt with). Take off 3% for holdback. That leaves $21,032- for the true cost of the vehicle. Looks like your dealer's ad there is a bait & switch. Honestly, I do wish you are able to get that car at the advertised price. I've researched for approx. 6 mos before buying and have seen that game many times before. Personally, I'd love to see someone get a much better deal than I did through the x-plan, but I saw where the dealer made only approx. $700 on the sale of my Escape - and I'm extremely satisfied with that. Even car dealers have to make a living. If everyone bought cars at or under cost, car dealers would simply not exist. RR

jacksontbd

Mostly I need a vehicle to get me to and from work (approx. 50 kilometres 1 way, 70% at highway speed). I'm looking for good gas mileage, reliability, comfort, safety, etc. Any hauling will be done with my 3/4 ton truck. Is the 4 cylinder/5 speed going to do the trick or is it just too small? Thanks for your help.

kimdubore

I recently saw a Silver Ford Escape in Orlando, Florida; however, no website I've seen shows Silver as a color option. Does anyone know if the Escape can be ordered in Silver?

sasquatch_2000

I'd say buy a Civic or Corolla.

chytraeus

What you saw was a "parchment gold" escape. Depending on the angle of the lighting, the "gold" can look exactly like silver. In my opinion, it is the ugliest color of all the Escapes.

yamaha13

Have read that the 2002 Escape will be offered in Silver.

1jimv1

(jacksontbd) There will be a 2002 Escape 4 available about Sept 1st. It will have a more modern 2.3 liter engine that you can test drive in the 2001 2.3 Ranger Truck available now at some dealers. Owners of the 2001 4 say it is slow starting from a stop but it passes well at highway speeds. Gas KM/L is rated about the same for both the 2.0 and 2.3 liter engines. Some predict a good clearance sale for the 2001 4 this summer due to the change. I believe you will be more satisfied with the 2.3.

pfeffepe

Love my new Escape. I do have a question. When you put the car into Drive (automatic) the shifter does not seem like it is totally in the grove. If you move it back a hair it then recesses and moves back toward the radio a little more. Has anyone else seen this?

scape2

Nice to hear some news about this new engine. They were supposed to be available in the Feb/Mar time frame. Where did you hear September?
I have read quite a bit about the 2.3 and this engine is built to be a truck engine. I is supposed to have about 140HP more torque and give you better MPG than the present 2.0. I have been patiently waiting and searching for news on the 2.3 Escapes....

bosun

The theft light on the dash keeps flashing when the tors are locked and closed. It pretty much stays flashing. The only time it does not flash is while the car is running. According to the owners manual, it should not be flaking continuously. Is anyone experiencing the same thing?

Bosun

currey

that the little suv with a key in it keeps flashing on your dash? This is the light to let you (and everybody else) that the secure-lock and alarm (if so equipped) is armed and active.

betsyj1

Just got my Escape V6 4WD back from the dealership. Apparently the "tensioner" broke. I was disappointed to learn that others have had this problem. Luckily, mine broke in the driveway. Also, my gearshift seems a little "goosie." It's almost hard to find D without overshooting it a few times. I think that it's gotten better over time (2600 miles), or maybe I've just gotten used to it.

Is anyone experiencing a delay/hesitation when accelerating from a stop, particularly when cold. I haven't had a gas smell problem. . . yet.

kayakr

Does anyone know where to find an aftermarket roof console to fit the Escape? I liked the concept, but did not want the leather package. Also, after checking the manufacturer's web site & getting part numbers, I was able to order from Discount Autoparts the 4-pc ventvisor set and bug shield. The parts were only three days out and were less expensive than what I've seen online. Still extremely satisfied with my Escape! Thx...RR

erandolph

could you tell me the auto parts numbers for the 4 piece vent visor set for your Escape. I too would like to order these. Was unable to locate them on the inter net. Also, the bug shield. Thank you.
Escape owner, Eric

kayakr

Go to www.autoventshade.com & you can find the information on the 4-piece ventvisor set & the bugflectors. Note that there are two models of bugflector available (original & bugflector II). I had this manufacturer's products on my Blazer for three years without any problems - went through dozens of carwashes unscathed. If you go through your local autoparts store, their books are out of date - you will have to find someone who isn't lazy & is willing to call the manufacturer directly. If you supply the part numers, they should be willing to assist you. The shipping for me was only $5- for all of the parts. My next hunt is for someone to install an oil cooler & towing package (like factory); and an aftermarket overhead console. RR

basch2000

Take a look at the fine print in those ads. They usually require that you finance 80% of the value of the car at some exorbitant dealer-financed rate, with prepayment penalties. The dealer is making its profits in interest payments instead of upfront.

k9cop1

I went to the site & found the bugflector II but no prices!
Thanks,
Dave

mad4sax

Check out the link:

http://www.waag.com/showcar/

Now that is a fine Escape.

scottf2

I'm looking into buying a used escape. It's and XLT V6 4x4 with moonroof. I am unable to find out the value of it through Edmunds, Kelly, or NADA because it is so new. Could anyone tell me a way to find out what it's worth or what to take off the original sticker for mileage? thanks

bj16

Love my new ESCAPE only problem, no arm rests. Tried JC Whittney but wouldn't go over console. Has anyone else tried looking for them?

odie6l

I found out from both calling Ford and Going through the Dealer I am going to buy at. There is a Silver (shown in the Accessory Book), but the only way you can get a Silver Escape is to buy as part of a Fleet (5 or more). Also has anyone had any problems with the Freestone 16in tires yet?

Odie6L

odie6l

I found out from both calling Ford and Going through the Dealer I am going to buy at. There is a Silver (shown in the Accessory Book), but the only way you can get a Silver Escape is to buy as part of a Fleet (5 or more). Also has anyone had any problems with the Firestone 16in tires yet?

Odie6L

briany3

I (finally) found a place with prices on "used" Escapes, at www.usedcars.com. However, without any further research, it appears that there are some dealers just selling low mileage Escapes. Also, either the resals price on Escapes is terrific, or these folks are WAY overpricing their used Escapes.

For those who asked, my latest gas mileage:
# of times I have filled my Escape XLT 2 WD 3.0 liter engine: 10 times.
Total Miles Driven: 2576
Lowest MPG on a tank: 22.4 MPG
Best MPG on a tank: 25.9 MPG
Average MPG on a tank: 23.83

Yes, I drive mostly highway, but even counting the city and suburban mileage, I'm still getting almost the EPA estimate for the highway.

-- Brian@sportsbusiness.com

lovethosesuvs

I live in a smaller town and just had my first test drive of an Escape yesterday--loved it! They are hard to even see around here, since I'm sure the allocation does not go first to this town. (Better than the VERY RUDE people at the Mazda dealership who refused me the test drive on a Tribute. Big mistake. Now I find, since I have been relating my experience to others, that some have had the same experience, or been rudely treated in regards to repairs).

Here's the real question: I am trying to decide whether I want to buy an Escape now, or wait till the 2002 model year, when I hope more of the bugs will be worked out. The dealer airily speculated that with the Escapes being delivered now, all the bugs HAVE been worked out. I don't believe him.

And can't they get rid of those Firestone tires?? The dealer said they thought they had a program to aid in changing out those tires.

I signed up for the X-plan so I'm on my way...

lovethosesuvs

kayakr

I'm at approx. 400 miles on my new Escape (XLE v-6 Wedge wood Blue/Parchment 16" wheels), and am interested in changing the oil early just to be safe. With the light viscosity oil in this engine (5w-20), when do you all do the first oil change? BTW...I'm extremely satisfied with the 16" wheels & Freestone tires on my Escape - completely different tire model from those Explorer 'maypop' Freestones. AR

sasquatch_2000

If they are rude BEFORE the sale, just think how they will be AFTER the sale!!!

RE: Firestone tires: I wouldn't worry too much about it. Keep your pressure correct and keep an eye on them. I am surprised they just didn't ship them all to some 3rd world country!

brad256

Has anyone used their Escape to haul building materials (sheets 4'x8') and were satisfied in this regard. I have very few NEEDS that require a 'ute, but the occasional sheet is one at the top! Mazda says the Tribute can with the rear glass left open, but I don't want to assume the same for the Escape.

odie6l

I'm going tomorrow 05/10/01 and ordering an Escape. I've already talked to the dealer and they are going to knock $1000.00 off the vehicle because I wouldn't buy with the Firestone's on. Instead I'm going to a local Goodyear and having Wrangler RS-A put on with lifetime protection plan. I am also trying to get the Gray leather in the Green Escape... if anyone else had any luck getting the gray let me know.

Odie6L@aol.com

cugolfn

The manual does not recommend an oil change until 5000 miles. I had mine changed at 1000 miles just because that is what I have always done. I went to Wal-Mart and got some Motorcraft 5W-20 and brought it to my Mobil Service Station. They changed the oil for me, charged me labor only. For some reason they could not get 5W-20. If you take your Escape to the dealer be sure to specify 5W-20! People have written that the dealers put 5W-30 in because they don't know any better.

Good luck!

Tony

hptek

I'm in the market for an Escape XLT. Just wondering what the general feeling is on the truck, thanks.

kayakr

This us just my 2c worth, but I am more than satisfied with my Escape (2wd XLT v-6/cloth). I consider this to be a nearly perfect little SUV. It has more power & pick-up than an Xterra & a Chevy Blazer (with a 4.3 v-6), and has far more creature comforts as standard equipment. Now... I've only had it for a week, so reliability remains to be seen. So far, so good - hopefully Ford has a winner here. A couple words of advice - use the X-plan to buy, and be sure to get exactly the options you want, since Ford service is unable to install some equipment after the sale (such as my long sought after towing package). RR

kayakr

I finally installed the bugshield & vent visors that I purchased from Discount Auto - all went smoothly. The fit is pretty good for a new product (new for the Escape). One thing is different from my previous experience with the vent visors..these mount on the metal painted door frame rather than on the rubber around the window as before. After a little hesitation, I slapped them on - carefully. The Escape looks pretty sharp with those bad boys on! Here's a tip to speed up the process & help accuracy,too...strip off about an inch of each of the three backers off of the mounting tape just before you go to fit & then mount. Fold the backing tag over so you can pull it when the visor is in place. This will allow you to make adjustments while you are affixing it to the door frame. RR

stever

It's been quite a while since anyone has expressed concern about the initial recalls of the Escape, but the next time someone bugs you about them, show them this link :-)

Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

virtualhiker

My preferred local Ford dealer sells everything for a no haggle 1.5 over invoice including Escapes. They tell me I won't find that deal hardly anywhere and it seems true. Another local Ford delaer has 1k over MSRP! on Escapes and will not budge. Is 1.5 over invoice really good? I may buy a loaded red xlt 4x4 tomorrow. Side air bags, mach stereo, moonroof, step rails, rack and tow for 24239.22 deliverd. No leather. Is this a good deal???

chytraeus

If you buy off the lot, the chances you will pay more are high. If you can wait, try a retail order and price shop around to all the dealers in your area. I got my Escape (XLT, 4x4, moonroof, Mach dual media, privacy glass, automatic, V6 for $22,200, about $300 under invoice, without the X-Plan. Good luck.

kayakr

Remember when you are purchasing from a retail sales rep, the deal you cut does not have the dealer fee included. Those prices at invoice, or 1.5% over invoice, or $300 under invoice will also have a dealer fee added at the closing stage. This fee is about $395 to $485. Add this (plus tax on this amout) to your price and the X-plan will ALWAYS come out to the good, since there is no dealer fee involved in the X-plan. Ford designed the X-plan to give a price that is below discounted retail at all times. A dealer may move a selected individual car at or near this price, but they cannot possibly stay in business selling most of their inventory at such a low margin. Under the X-plan, you go straight to the Fleet sales manger - not through the sales floor. Much tidier and quicker - they can also give you a price right over the phone. Te paperwork on my Escape purchase was completed in under 45 mminutes. Most enjoyable experience I've ever had in buying a car. RR

currey

Just goes to show any manufacturer could have some recall problems. Then again, I'll take the Tributes "smell" problem over that RR problem any day of the week.