Two problems related to brakes failed have been reported for the 2005 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2005 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2005 Escape.
Iwas driving 30 mph went to apply brakes had none,pulled emergency brake handle it worked got me stopped,got home looked under SUV brake fluid everywhere arounddriver side front wheel ,took wheel off found the rubber hose deteriorated blew out,my question is why did the braking system allow all fluid to drain,if you front brakes fail from blown line,should not the rear brakes retain fluid in the resorvoir and rear brakes still work,is this a 2005 Ford Escape flaw.
Had light warning of brake failure. Investigation discovered broken ring with teeth on front axle that senses wheel rotation. Part is called "tone ring" Ford part #7l8z-2c182-b. This causes a failure of the abs and traction control system. Internet search showed this as a very common problem with all year Ford Escapes and is a very bad design. This $32 part causes a $300 parts and labor cost since recommended fix is to replace a perfectly good axle. It appears to be caused by expansion and contraction of the ring and rust between the axle and the pressed on ring.