2002 Ford Escape

The 2002 Ford Escape was a popular compact SUV, marking Ford’s entry into this growing market. It offered a blend of car-like handling with SUV practicality. Engine options included a 2.0L Zetec inline-4 producing 130 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L Duratec V6 producing 200 hp and 193 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission (though the manual was less common, especially with the V6). The Escape was liked for its maneuverability and relatively affordable price. Common dislikes included lower fuel economy than some competitors and some reliability concerns, especially with older models.

Engine

2.0L Zetec I4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light illuminated with misfire codes (P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304). Often caused by worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs, replace faulty ignition coils, repair vacuum leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, failure to start, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Duratec V6

• Intake Manifold Gaskets Leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant loss, overheating. The coolant leak can be external (visible) or internal (mixing with oil).
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gaskets Leaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine, burning oil smell, potential for oil dripping onto exhaust components.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (CD4E)

• Harsh Shifting / Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, loss of power. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or solenoid issues.
  • Solution: Perform transmission fluid flush (if fluid is not severely burnt), replace faulty solenoids, or rebuild/replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly when accelerating. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, worsening with speed. Can also cause looseness in the rear wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the rear wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window operates slowly or not at all, unusual noises when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock fails to lock or unlock with the remote or power lock switch.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches and Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, particularly around the rear wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting. This can range from a temporary fix to full panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel (depending on severity and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air blowing from the vents (e.g., only hot air blowing). Clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Escape has several common issues, primarily related to the engine (intake manifold leaks, misfires), transmission (harsh shifting, torque converter problems), and electrical components (power windows, door locks). Rust is also a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the severity of the issue, but some problems like transmission rebuilds or rust repair can be quite expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.