One problem related to clutch pedal/linkage has been reported for the 2009 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2009 Escape.
Was driving at a consistent speed down a fairly busy road. Vehicle suddenly lunged forward and accelerated without any pressure on gas pedal and I almost hit car in front of me and braking had no effect. After a few seconds of acceleration the car seemed to lose power to the drivetrain and was unresponsive to me pressing the gas pedal, and the wrench warning light game on. I could only coast over to the side of the road, but the shoulder was not wide enough so part of my car was still in the lane and the car behind me had to swerve out of my way. The car was stuttering and did nothing when I pressed the gas pedal, clutch, or changed gears. Turned off and restarted and the car was working fine as it had been before the incident. The wrench light had disappeared so my mechanic could not pull any codes, but believes it is a defective sensor in the throttle body. For the car to suddenly lunge forward uncontrollably without any warning is extremely dangerous, no matter how short of time. I won't drive until the new part arrives, which could be a week as I live in hawaii. Also, Ford is refusing to pay for it as the warranty has expired. Upon investigating this weekend I have found that this is a common problem with the Escapes, but as an owner I was never once warned of it. Had I been I would have it checked out much earlier and replaced if necessary.