2007 Ford Escape

The 2007 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that was offered with three engine options: a 2.3L inline-4 producing 153 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L V6 producing 200 horsepower and 193 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid 2.3L inline-4. The non-hybrid engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid engine was paired with a CVT. Owners generally appreciate the Escape’s fuel efficiency (particularly the hybrid model) and maneuverability. Common complaints include reports of rust, especially in areas with road salt, and a somewhat dated interior compared to newer SUVs.

Engine

2.3L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires/Rough Idle
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine runs rough, idles poorly, check engine light illuminates. Can be due to faulty ignition coils or worn spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminates, difficulty filling the gas tank, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3L Inline-4 Hybrid

• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, and a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Non-Hybrid)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts roughly or slips between gears. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Check and top off/replace transmission fluid. If problem persists, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $2000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (Hybrid)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips, erratic shifting, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the struts, especially when turning, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty component.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on rocker panels and around wheel wells. Common in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel (depending on severity).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down.
  • Solution: Replace power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air.
  • Solution: Replace A/C compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Ford Escape, while generally reliable, has some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues vary based on the engine type, with the 2.3L I4 experiencing coil and purge valve problems, the 3.0L V6 having intake manifold gasket leaks, and the hybrid experiencing catalytic converter failures. Transmission problems are most significant, especially with the CVT in the hybrid model. Suspension and electrical issues are also present, adding to the overall maintenance costs. Rust is a common concern in certain climates. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering this vehicle. Severity ranges from minor inconveniences to major component failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.