Two problems related to gas recirculation valve (egr valve) 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 for Escape refuses to start after being driven until several hours if not days later. I have replaced the starter twice the first time it worked for 2 months and it did it again on 9-2-14 replaced the starter again and it will not start still there is no power going to any of the electrical parts in the engine compartment and there is a strong smell of fuel. I have replaced all relays and fuses and still nothing. I was stranded with my 5 month old and 16 month old in 100 degree weather.
While driving my Ford Escape the egr valve blew apart. This has happened 3 times. It was replaced all 3 times and it continues to happen. When it happens the entire vehicle shakes violently and is very hard to steer. It is very dangerous. I have joined a few message boards online and found that this is a common problem with this make and model. I feel this is some type of internal problem and needs to be addressed before someone gets hurt or worse.