Two problems related to tailgate have been reported for the 2004 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2004 Escape.
The two hinges holding the rear window to the tailgate are badly corroded to the point that the metal bolts have failed and the rear window is now a safety hazard and could fall off during normal driving.
A rattling from rear passenger wheel area. Upon investigation to see what it was I found that the upper connection point of the shock tower was completely rusted through and was barely connected to the rest of the body. Within a day or two afterwards the upper part had completely seperated and the shock was bouncing around freely. I removed the shock yesterday (5/1/2014) as it had pushed up (since it has no resistance or means to hold it compressed) and punched a hole through the plastic interior side wall liner in the tailgate area. There is now an aproximatly 10" square hole in the side of my vehicle where I can see the tire and road. I will need to seal the opening to keep road water from entering. Photos can be provided.