Two problems related to horn assembly 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.
On several ocassions, vehicle security alarm sounded several times while trying to start engine. Alarm horn eventually deactivated after pushing key button during several starting attempts. Drove vehicle out of parking lot slowing for stop light and vehicle completely shut off. Major safety concern. Restarted engine and gauges swing minimum to maximum continually with air bag light on, check engine light on, theft light on. Gauges worked alternately during min-max swings, then stopped working completely. Day after occurence, new battery was completely drained and would not hold a charge. When trying to charge battery, vechicle had clicking sound in gauge console. Had vehicle towed to auto electrical mechanic who tells me it is a faulty dash console and not the vehicle computer and dash gauge console needs to be replaced at a new part cost of $700. Replacing dash gauge console with a new one to find if this fixes vehicle problems. Major consern if engine shutting down while driving.
Smart junction box failure. Part# 5l8z15604ga this part controls many of the electronic elements of the vehicle; directional signals, hazard lights instrument panel, horn, locks, windows, security system. Various electrical elements fail intermittently because of this defective part. The part is on back-order and continues to be pushed to a later date. As of 11/16, the part is on back-order until Jan 17, 2011. I have seen other complaints about this issue, and see that the part has been on back-order since (at least) August 2010. There is obviously a high demand for this part, or it is being redesigned and Ford is trying to avoid a recall.