2004 Ford Escape

The 2004 Ford Escape was a popular compact SUV offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and decent fuel economy for its time. Engine options included a 2.0L Zetec inline-4 producing 127 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, a 2.3L Duratec inline-4 with 153 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Duratec V6 generating 200 horsepower and 193 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consisted of a 5-speed manual (primarily with the 4-cylinder engines) and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praised the Escape for its car-like handling, comfortable ride, and spacious interior for its class. However, common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly concerning the automatic transmission, and some found the fuel economy of the V6 engine underwhelming.

Engine

2.0L Zetec Inline-4

• No Issues Found

2.3L Duratec Inline-4

• No Issues Found

3.0L Duratec V6

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting/Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software reflash may resolve minor issues. However, more often, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for all four
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rear Wheel Arches/Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the rear wheel arches and/or rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Door Handles
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks easily when pulled.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Escape, while generally a practical vehicle, is known to have some common issues, particularly regarding the automatic transmission. These can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing valve cover gaskets or blend door actuators to more costly repairs such as transmission rebuilds/replacements and rust repair. Suspension components like ball joints and struts also tend to wear out with age. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.