Four problems related to engine have been reported for the 2003 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2003 Escape.
My 2003 Ford Escape 6 cyl 2 wheel drive was stopped at a stoplight when the engine suddenly revved to over 4000 rpm for approximately 7 seconds. Fortunately, I had my foot on the brake at the time. Changing from drive to neutral had no effect on the rpms and the engine went back to about 1500 rpms through no action on my part. Afterwards, the vehicle drove normally. I recall that similar occurrences have happened in the past so I wanted to get this information to you ASAP. I do not recall what vehicles were involved at that time. What worries me is if that happens while I am in a parking lot backing out or some other situation where my reaction would be too slow to stop an accident or damage to my vehicle. The vehicle has about 32,000 miles on it and I am the original owner.
The contact owns a 2003 Ford Escape. While driving 20 mph, the brake pedal was applied. The engine began to rev and the rpm raced to its maximum potential. The contact turned off the engine in order to stop the vehicle. There were no warning indicators present. The vehicle was not inspected by a dealer. The current and failure mileages were 62,900. Updated 01/09/08. The consumer stated noise in front end when hitting a bump and performed inspection per recall. Updated 12/12/07.
I was exiting off the interstate and around 35 mph my engine completely died and I lost power steering. I was able to make it to the shoulder and restart the vehicle, but the rpms kept bouncing around. I took the vehicle into my local Ford dealer, but they said nothing was wrong with it. I researched online myself and found that Ford had a recall that matched my exact situation/problem. The NHTSA id is 04v165000. Ford said my VIN number was not included in the recall. However, I find it hard to believe that mine should be excluded considering that my vehicle is the same make/model/year/engine type of the recalled ones and my problem matched exactly with what was referenced in the recall. Also my warranty runs out in 2 weeks and I don't want the same problem to happen again and then let the dealer find the problem. It also concerns me because my wife drives my car and I'm concerned about my family.
While driving at 50/55 mph vehicle died out without warning. This resulted in loss of power steering and brakes. The cost for repairs were $114. 21.