Three problems related to transfer case have been reported for the 2008 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2008 Escape.
Pulled into driveway, stopped, put the car in reverse - car would not move, engine just revved without moving; put it in d and nothing again. Turned off engine, restarted it, put it in gear and it kinda jerked backward. Sometimes the gears would engage, sometimes not. Noise coming from transmission area sounds like a blender on low speed. Mileage is 87,000. It is a 4wd. Have not yet determined whether it is the transmission or the transfer case - I'm nine miles from a dealer/garage and don't think I can make it there. Would probably have to tow it. I've parked it in a garage until a mechanic can respond to my residence. Had no problems with drive train until this happened. I've read that 2008 Escapes have had some problems, but this one is not under recall at this time.
When I start my car the power steering wont work. I have to shut the car off and restart it and it will work. I noticed my Escape was leaking fluid took it to the Ford dealer it was the transfer case. After 2500. Its fixed and it should be a recall on both as there are numerous complaints on both of these.
My 2008 Ford Escape limited 4wd with approx. 29,000 miles started running a little louder than normal. Then it began shaking while in motion, usually between 35 to 40mph. When it was taken to the dealership they told me it has a bad transfer case. When the part never came in I was informed that there was a stop shipment on the part because of a defect they found in the manufacturing. Almost a month later they have received the part. Had I not still be covered under warranty this would have been a very expensive and upsetting repair.