Engine Failure problems of the 2001 Ford Escape

We own a 2001 Ford Escape with less than 42000 miles on it. We have gotten all of the required oil changes and scheduled maintenance done on it. We went through the dealer for all service work and all but one oil change. Recently it began shaking even when the car was not in motion. We took it back to the dealer again and they informed us that the engine was bad and needed replaced (costing $4000). The service technician had originally told us that the engine had gone bad because we had not changed the oil or had put the wrong oil in it. This is untrue, we have met the requirements set out by Ford and had proof. Then, he said that we must have gone through high water in the car because the air filter was yellowed. We have never taken the car through high water. We were told by a different Ford mechanic that dust and pollen in the air can cause the yellowing. Then they told us that the engine could have become ruined because of heavy rain. The dealer that we have been working with is: rusty eck Ford 7310 east kellogg wichita KS 67207 phone: 316. 685. 9211 fax: 316. 685. 2890 this is obviously a defect in the manufacturing of the engine and we feel that Ford should replace the engine. We have owned more than a dozen cars (one having over 180,000 on it) and have never had an engine go bad on us. We have owned 7 different Ford vehicles. We have done our part in taking care of the Ford Escape, and we feel that it is ridiculous to have to pay for this kind of repair so early in its life. The excuses that we have been given for the engine failure are ludicrous. Certainly, vehicles must be able to withstand rain showers.

Since the first weeks of purchase of vehicle it has had numerous sensor problems, all of which the national city Ford has addressed. They have changed multiple parts in the vehicle, including a failed system. The original purchase was made from bob baker Ford in mission valley, (san diego) but the vehicle it's self has been serviced at the national city dealer. Since the beginning of the vehicle problems we have been in contact with the manufacturer, advising them of all the different defects we have. The defect that most worries us is the engine failure, the engine tends to lose all power without notice and shuts off loosing power steering and braking ability. This has happend to us at night, and not even the dash board lights flicker, or the head lights. We have addressed the issue, they have installed equipment to try and figure the problem with no success. They say we can hope it does not happen again. Fortunatly it has not happened on the freeway, as those Ford focus problems. The latest problem with the vehicle has been transmission related, it is as of 10/29/02 being looked at the fuller Ford dealership for this problem. We have also asked that they look at the engine problem, and they will advise. Dt.

Engine stalled on july3, 2001 while driving 45 mph without warning and vehicle lost all power. Vehicle has stalled at least 10 times under the same conditions. Returned vehicle 6 times for service but no fix is currently available. Most recent engine failure on 2/27/02. Contacted Ford moter company and filed a grievance. Trying to get money back but the process is long and dificult. Ford not being very cooperative.