Two problems related to automatic transmission torque converter have been reported for the 2002 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2002 Escape.
O/d off light began flashing. Apparently, the torque converter failed and the entire transmission had to be replaced. Car was only 4 years old with 53000 miles. If I didn't have an extended warranty, the repairs would have cost over $3000. Apparently, this same problem exists on the 2002 Ford explorer as well.
(oct. 2003)torque converter failed and had to be replaced around 21,850 mi. Under warranty and replaced by dealer. (Mar 2005) torque converter failed and had to be replaced again around 38,000 mi. Replaced by dealer at a discount to me. Ford only guarantees torque converter for 12 mo. Or 12,000 mi. Should it fail again, estimated cost of repair will be around $1,000.