Ignition problems of the 2002 Ford Escape

12 problems related to ignition 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.

1 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 07/14/2025

The contact owns a 2002 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while shifted in park(p), the key failed to release while the engine was running. The contact drove to a local o'reilly's where one of the employees was able to remove the key from the ignition. The failure had gotten progressively worse. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the ignition lock cylinder had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 227,000.

2 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 09/09/2003

When driving at any speed the vehicle stalls. There are times when trying to start the vehicle takes at least seven minutes. This vehicle has been to the dealer three times, and is at the dealers at this time.

3 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 07/23/2003

While driving down a hill, I was braking to make a left hand turn when my 2002 Ford Escape XLT 4x4 stalled for no reason.

4 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 07/15/2002

The vehicle has a tendency to stall while it is being driven, creating an unsafe situation. On three occasions I have taken my Escape back to the dealership to have this problem addressed, as per the manufacturers warranty. Each time I am told that there is no guarantee that the problem has been fixed and that it may happen again. To date, over the span of my ownership, the vehicle has demonstrated this problem six times. Each time it has created an unsafe condition for my family and me. This a very serious issue which the service staff cannot seem to fix. The stalling does not occur with any particular frequency. It has occurred while driving home, while driving to work, while approaching a stop sign, and while driving down a hill approaching a bend in the road. Since I am not able to use this vehicle safely as intended when I purchased it, due to a manufacturers defect, I am seeking a remedy other than service dept appointments. Ford has left me with no choice but to request a remedy, as per section 59. 1-207. 13 of the virginia lemon law.

5 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 06/29/2002

At 30mph vehicle shuts off. This could cause an accident. Cause unknown. Dealer notified.

6 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 06/03/2002

Car stalled during heavy traffic. Many irate drivers. No warning prior to stall. This has been the 4th time.

7 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 05/24/2002

Vechicle stalls for unknown reason while driving.

8 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 03/27/2002

Vehicle stalled on 4 occasions. . . . . .

9 Ignition problem

Failure Date: 01/09/2002

The vehicle lost all power; steering, brakes, and electrical while driving at approximatly 35 mph. My employee's Ford Escape had the same problem at about the same milage. Please note that my VIN number is 18 degits and could not be completely entered. (1fmcu04192ka61404).

10 Ignition problem

No summary listed for above vehicle.

11 Ignition problem

My Escape has stalled while going down the street at 40 mph. This is my second Escape to do this (my replacement for my first Escape) I need help before we get into an accident.

12 Ignition problem

Vehicle lost power without warning. Also, it effected the ability to steer the vehicle. Dealer would honor the warranty. In the TSB that was issued, the diagnostics items were fine. Ford think they need to change the items on the TSB.



Escape Service Bulletins
Escape Safety Recalls
Escape Defect Investigations