Hatchback/liftgate Support Device problems of the 2011 Ford Escape

Vehicle was parked. Owner opened the rear window. On latch release (and window upswing) the left side of the window shot out and fell from the car -- window was being held onto the car only by the glass lift supports. The window liftgate hinges had deteriorated/broken apart from the anchor bolt on the window. Approximately 3-5 months previously, owner noticed that a white substance had stained the rear window just below both liftgate hinges.

My 2011 Ford Escape rear liftgate latch won't open- caused by premature failure of an electrical actuator that unlatches (open) the lift-gate. The vehicle's liftgate only unlatches electrically (button switch operated). There is no way to open the liftgate manually if the actuator fails or in the event of vehicle's electric power failure. Defective design, quality control/reliability issue as well as safety concern. . Read more...

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the liftgate window was found to be shattered. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection where they stated that they could not diagnose the cause of failure. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 37,000. The VIN was unavailable.