Ford Escape

baggs32 · October 2002

"stop spreading falso info. CRVs are selling $500 over invoice in most part of the country."

Most of what I've read over in the CR-V board tells me that everyone is buying them for more than $1000 less than sticker.

scape2 · October 2002

spreading rumors?? I'm looking at the paper my friend, right there in black and white, no rumors here. Where are you getting your information on $500 over invoice?
Never had the stalling problem with my very reliable Escape. 16,000 trouble free wonderful miles. Used it to tow my watercraft, find my fishing spots, skii.. and the Escape purrs right along. Upgrade?? I would not call a RAV4 an upgrade.. nor a CRV...

bess · October 2002

You ask: "How do you solve the Escape/Tribute stalling problem"

We don't have to, Ford has a TSB to address that issue.

tidester · October 2002

I'm looking at the paper my friend...

Perhaps you could provide baggs with the name of the newspaper and the page number to convince him.

tidester
Host
SUVs; Aftermarket & Accessories

odie6l · October 2002

Make sure the little wind deflector that is on the inside of the front of the moonroof is in the up position (it will look like your escape has a crown from the outside), Also make sure your luggage rails are on in the correct direction (longer slant towards the front). If that doesn't help. I don't know what would.

Odie

scape2 · October 2002

went with no problems. Had them got through the vehicle with a fine tooth comb. I had no complaints to begin with but I take preventative maint seriously.
Are they still putting roof racks on backwards at dealerships??? Mine was on backwards also and made a terrible howling noise when I reached about 50MPH. turned them around and walla! noise gone.... This is an old problem from when the Escape was first released in 01....

mckee4 · October 2002

I've had my 2001 2WD XLT for 16 months and 22.5K miles; no stalls, or otherwise major
mechanical problems. I also have leather interior, sunroof and MACH-6 and
frankly enjoy the extra cost items immensely.
Roughly 65% urban and 35% rural miles, tough Texas summers,
and the like. I must admit that the Escape for me has been just a solid though not as
well put together as some foreign makes I've owned.
I'm going to get the 30K service done at about 25K. I will probably foot the extra cost
and have a complete transmission flush, complete coolant flush, fuel induction service,
and brake fluid flush. The 30K total services including the extra stuff is going to run about
$400.00. Most all of the good private mechanics are recommending these services
anyway, at least in this region of the country. The brakes are wearing o.k. so far, but I
do anticipate a complete brake job at 30K or so. The ContiTrac SUV tires have a rough
ride, but seem to wear well, though I expect to have them changed out in about another
10K miles.
I would rate the Escape at least an 8.0/10 in most vehicular categories. It's been that good.
I had a Ford Escort that I kept for 95K miles with little to no trouble. With maintenance
and some TLC I expect the Escape to go longer and farther, particularly with the V-6.

audia8q · October 2002

Remember...Honda and Toyota dealerships have service departments too.....I will believe they are perfect when they no longer have them. haha

tincup47 · October 2002

There are those that will say that they mostly do scheduled maintenance, but since almost every dealer I've been at has a warranty person they must do enough warranty work to justify the expense

millsde · October 2002

If I read everything that was to be read on here concerning wind noise, am I correct in assuming the mirrors were redesigned on Jan. 02' Escape models and later, and if you have an '02 model pre-January, you are stuck with the old style and excessive wind noise? Mind seems to start whistling around 40 mph, and by 80 mph, is quite substantial. It makes the tire roar seem minor. Is this common with all '01 and early '02 models?

audia8q · October 2002

I agree that some people really think they don't break....but I love to whip out the work orders from our Acura store. The service department does almost as much mechanical work as our ford store...its just 30-40% more expensive. haha...laughing all the way to the bank fixing cars that don't break.

scape2 · October 2002

Finally!! a Acura/Honda repair person that knows the real truth!....

bayeclark · October 2002

We currently have 2 mini-vans (2001 Odyssey and 1995 Windstar). We are looking to replace the Windstar and are looking possibly for 4WD. We in general are interested in a 4WD Escape. However, we have concerns on the size (for safety and roominess) and driving in snow. Can anyone give us an idea of their opinions on an Escape from a safety/size/ and winter driving point of view compared to 4wd Explorer and a Windstar (or mini-vans in general).

Thanks

bess · October 2002

I've owned a 95 Windstar and a 99 Windstar and currently own a 2001 Escape.

General driving:
The Escape wins hands down. Its quicker, more maneuverable, more fun to drive, easier to drive, and gets better MPGs then the Windstar.

Safety: The Escape has all 5 or 4star ratings. No problem with safety there.

Roominess: With the Windstars we never had to use the roof rack. With the Escape when our family of 4 goes on the long vacations we sometimes have to use the roof rack for just 2 or 3 small suitcases at most. (have a roof bag). The main occasions we use the roof rack was over the x-mas holidays where alot of room was taken up with packages for all the in-laws and out-laws.

Winter Driving: The 4x2 Escape does even better than the Windstar. The slighly higher ground clearance and more aggressive tires help here. So you probably don't even need the 4x4 Escape unless thats what you really want. Remember the Escape 4x2 is front wheel drive, compared to the rear wheel drive 4x2 Explorer.

The kids (ages 3 and 6) have no problem with the Escape, and things are even better because I installed a drop-down LCD and wireless headphones entertainment system for videos (and soon dvd's).

scape2 · October 2002

for handling in the snow. My Escape has handled 2 winters without one problem, getting stuck or slipping. Being able to switch into 4x4 when you want to is a nice feature. On other SUV's you have to hope and wait it will slip and grip...
As far as safety.. the Escape gets 5 stars in all categories but 1... Some crash test sites rate it worse however, some better.... who do you believe??

hollier1 · October 2002

I have read numerous posts on the Escape and CRV. Each have problems, some bigger than others, and each have their strengths. For about the price of a CRV with 15" wheels, cloth seats, and a 4 banger I can buy a Escape with 16" wheels, leather seats, and a V6. I have owned 6 Honda products and each have been very reliable giving me excellent bang for the buck. I have also owned 3 Ford SUV's 1 Expedition and 2 Explorers. There is no comparison at 60K+ miles, the Hondas are still tight and the Fords are getting loose. I need feed back on the Escape as to drive feel after 60K miles. Is stall still a concern?

bess · October 2002

Hopefully you'll get some feedback on 60k+ Escapes. But given the Escape has only been out for about 3 years, I wouldn't expect there to be that many out there those miles.

Our Escape stalled once, we took it in and they did the TSB. So I don't think the stalling should be a concern.

Driving wise, I very much prefer the handling of the Escape vs its larger SUV brothers. Much tighter and precise. After 60k miles, I would bet the Escape is still better, unless the shocks/struts are starting to wear a bit.. (Which may be what your feeling on the Explorer/Expy).

I've noticed that the larger vehicles seem to be more sensitive to shocks wearing that smaller ones. (Either more sensitive, or just wear them out faster).

scape2 · October 2002

Finding an Escape with 60K miles is going to be pretty tough. I now have just over 16,000 miles on my Escape and its been reliable, no stalls, no problems whatsoever. I did have a back door/glass that was squeaky but I adjusted/fixed that myself.
This stalling thing has gotten blown way out of proportion. Get out on the net visit other chat rooms/groups and you will see there are many more satisfied Escape/Tribute owners out here than unsatisfied.
As you said the CRV has its strong points as does the Escape. The V6 is wonderful, powerful, and pulls the vehicle/passengers/gear around with confidence.. Good luck..

stever · October 2002

Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2003

Steve, Host

ahrc11 · November 2002

any used escapes in my area, guess that shows that folks are hanging on to them. I prefer to buy used cars, just about 2 years, because financially that's best for me...Been choosing between Liberty, Escape, and CRV...Husband pointed out how he didn't like the tail light position on the CRV and it's ruined it for me, now that's all I can focus on. Drove both the Liberty and the Escape yesterday, chose the Escape. So now, the point of this post is to ask if folks know about the market for used Escapes, the Edmunds used car search isn't helpful in my area (WV near Pittsbugh) but I'd be willing to travel for what I want. Any thoughts?

stever · November 2002

Some people have good luck with eBay.

Steve, Host

baggs32 · November 2002

I live in Pittsburgh, and I can't say that I've ever seen a used Escape on a lot. I do remember that a Mazda dealer had one used Tribute when we were shopping back in January though.

Have you looked at the Tribute too?

ahrc11 · November 2002

I haven't, but was planning to go to the I-79 dealer today. To be honest, I havent looked at it yet, beacause continued comparison of all the different mini-utes is giving me a headache. What's the difference between the 2? We really love our Explorer we have now, so I was sticking to Ford.

baggs32 · November 2002

Not much difference between the two ahrc11. The Tribute's suspension is a bit tighter for sportier handling, and the interior seems a bit more upscale. Those, and the obvious styling differences, are about it though.

I actually found the Tribute's suspension to be a little too tight if that means anything to you.

ahrc11 · November 2002

Thanks for the help...I really liked the Escape I drove yesterday, though it had a little more than I needed, leather and the moonroof specifically...I'll probably not do too much more hunting and then go back and get that one, if it's still there. I just need to have my numbers straight before I go; I suck at negotiation.

baggs32 · November 2002

We have the leather and moon roof in our Escape. The moon roof was a must, but I did not want the leather at all. It grows on you over time.

scape2 · November 2002

Do you have a dealership in your area that does internet negotiations? If you do this is the way to go. It cuts out hassle along with some salespeople. They are selling Escapes with leather and sunroof in my area for about 23K. I went straight to the dealerships internet sales office. I didn't use any other internet auto selling sites because they all get a commission. The internet salesperson gave me a price over the internet. You simply give 1st, 2nd, and 3rd color choices along with trim level you are looking for. I have an 01 Escape XLT V6 4wd and its been a wonderful vehicle.. Good luck..

stever · November 2002

A nice alternative to the larger SUVs.

Steve, Host

audia8q · November 2002

Why would somebody buy an Escape over a Tribute? Especially when you consider the big warranty difference.

Ford 3yr/36K
mazda 4yr/50K

Rich

baggs32 · November 2002

I felt the suspension was a little too tight in the Tribute.

Mazda's options come in packages. Something like, if you want the moon roof, you have to get the tow package...

Fewer dealers around (and I live in a large metro area). If you have a bad service experience, you may have to travel afar to find a good one. With Ford, you'll probably only have to go an extra couple of miles to the next service depot..

The Mazda does have it's benefits too, but they weren't enough to sway us. Appearance and material quality, to name a couple.

scape2 · November 2002

for a man, the Escape styling was more masculine than the Tribute. I also like the ride of the Escape better.

odie6l · November 2002

I got the 5yr/75k mile on my 2001 escape at no charge.

Odie

sgwilson33763 · November 2002

It's no secret Ford is in serious financial trouble. Now, apparently to cut costs and avoid further layoffs, it appears "Job 2" is to stip the Escape (and other Ford vehicles?) so cars can be made more cheaply while holding the line on the retail price.

For the Escape XLT--all cars to be produced starting early next month--it means:

* raised white letter tires are no available even as an option

* the rear security/privacy shade will no longer be available

* the overhead console is being removed as standard equipment and not available as an option

* lumbar support on the driver's seat being eliminated

* even the cheap, plastic coathooks where you hang your jacket in the rear seat area are being removed

There may be other deletions...I have not received a complete list and would appreciate a more-detailed post on "Job 2" from any insider who knows.

Bottom line: if you're thinking about an Escape XLT, find what you want on a lot near you NOW...the ones that are coming are going to be much, much "cheaper"...cheaper MADE, not cheaper priced!

scape2 · November 2002

vehicles in this class. Some features were not even offered on others in this class yet are on the Escape. Also, the Escape comes in many trim levels. Some of the competition doesn't even offer some of the options the Escape has.
Turned just over 17,000 miles on the Escape. First snow fall! yah hoo! Skiing here I come!...

odie6l · November 2002

how are you doing with your tornado now with the winter mix fuel. I'm down to about 22 city / 26-27 highway with mine.

Odie

lovethosesuvs · November 2002

Have now 22,000 miles on my 2001 XLT. It's been GREAT so far. Went to Best Buy and picked up a new TV and vacuum cleaner--what a pleasure to have an SUV to haul those home. Would have been a headache trying to fit them in a car.

When the car sits outside at work all day, or in the garage all night, and I start it up, I notice that the battery light goes on for about the first 3-5 minutes. It always goes off after 3-5 minutes or the first 2-3 blocks of driving. The vehicle starts right up; no problem there. Why does the light go on, and what does it mean?

nippononly · November 2002

the time when there is the most load on the charging system, and it sounds like you have a slipping belt on the alternator. Otherwise, you may have an alternator whose time for replacement has come.

scape2 · November 2002

I am running 89 octane in my Escape. My MPG is roughly 22 on average. On the highway however it jumps to a strong 26. I still want to believe this device gave me more low end torque feel. I have read that these devices are a bunch of garbage... I swear I could feel a difference in throttle response..
Love.. get it in to the shop and have it checked out before your warranty expires....

bess · November 2002

Any particular reason your running 89 octane?

odie6l · November 2002

i was thinking the same thing?

Odie

odie6l · November 2002

here's some pics of the stuff I wants to get for the Escape. Granted these are pics of the stuff on the Tribute... but you get the idea. It's the front rear and light guards.

Http://www.autoanything.com/images/waag_pg/enlarged/Mazda_Tribute-Front01_enlarged.jpg

Http://www.autoanything.com/images/waag_pg/enlarged/Mazda_Tribute-Rear01_enlarged.jpg

Odie

lovethosesuvs · November 2002

Nippononly and scape2, thanks for the advice on the battery light. I'll get it checked next week.

Odie, this looks a little like a deer guard, except it doesn't go all the way across. Sharp looking.

scape2 · November 2002

Just my preference I guess. The engine seems to run a bit smoother. It cost me another 8cents a gallon...

navigator3740 · November 2002

I read a test, I think it was Popular Mechanics, or C & D, where 4 different cars were tested on regular 87 octane, and then on premium 91 octane, in as controlled a test as possible, to compare mileage and performance statistics. The results were not conclusive, as some cars tended to give better performance with premium, and some cars gave worse. Same with mileage. So, I guess if 8 cents per gallon makes you feel better, hey, maybe your Escape feels better too. Who knows?

tugboat1 · December 2002

How much green is the Escape selling for in the Northeast? I have a Ford X-Plan discount number, and I believe this gets the car for 1% over invoice. However, if they are already discounting the snout out of this car, I am not sure of the worth of the X-plan.

I am also considering a CRV EX AWD. A similarly equiped Escape would have to be significantly cheaper given lower residuals/resale. Thanks!

baggs32 · December 2002

Escape XLT's around here (Pittsburgh) are only being discounted by about $1000. XLS' are being heavily discounted. I think the financing is still 3.9/4.9/5.9% for 36/48/60 month terms though.

We bought ours with the X-Plan too. I believe the deal is actually 3% above dealer invoice. The A-Plan, for the actual Ford employees, is something like 1% below dealer invoice.

Deals on SUV's in this region are going to be few and far between for the next month or two. We're just entering the big SUV selling season.

gheimur · December 2002

Check to make sure if it is battery light. I thought it was a battery light but it was actually the coolant sensor light. The sensor was defective. Ford replaced it the problem went away.

lovethosesuvs · December 2002

Yup, it was the coolant light. All is fixed now and no problems. Thanks for the tip.

Also, one of my speakers was fading in and out and they replaced that too. Had one in stock and they seemed surprised that they did.

odie6l · December 2002

why surprised.... The escape uses the same speakers as alot of the other Ford Vehicle's. I was actually thinking of heading to Circuit City and maybe upgradeing to Titanium JBL's or something. But I'm not going to do anything until after my 5yr/75k warrenty expires

Odie

beachbumm · December 2002

Hello folks, I am thinking of getting an Escape XLT 2-wheel drive in the next 6 months or so. I have two questions for anyone who cares to respond. First, is there any difference in gas mileage between the 15 and 16 inch rims? Anyone have any preferences? The 16 inch rims almost look a little too big for the wheel wells -- kind of like the paws on a kitten. Also, what are you Escape owners actually getting in gas mileage with the V6 2-wheel drive? I've read so many conflicting reports of fuel economy -- some say it sucks, others get low 20s. Any real numbers out there? Thanks!

Ford Escape

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