One problem related to cruise control has 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.
Defective cruise control cable will lock throttle in full open position when the gas pedal is fully depressed. Polymer sleeve on cruise actuator cable has broken at the throttle connector. This allows the connector to rotate to a vertical position and catch on the engine cover when the foot pedal is pressed to the floor.