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2001 Ford Escape electrical complaints

Page 3 of 6: complaints 41 to 70 of 136, newest first, as owners wrote them.

See the summary of 2001 Ford Escape electrical problems: which part fails, at what mileage and related recalls.

Filed Apr 16, 2008 · Electrical · 130,000 miles · MI · fire

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 ford escape. The contact's vehicle caught fire while parked. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. There were no injuries and a police report was filed. The insurance company stated that the vehicle was destroyed. The current and failure mileages were 130,000.

Filed Apr 7, 2008 · Electrical · 69,344 miles · PA

While driving at speeds between 30 an 40 MPH, the car suddenly stalled in traffic. All attempts to restart the vehicle ,by myself, were for naught. A nearby garage initially thought the problem was a timing belt issue, but further investigation showed that the problem was with an electrical harness with a possible short. A bit strange for a non-moving part.

Filed Mar 28, 2007 · Brakes, Electrical · 67,508 miles · TN · fire

Tl*- the contact stated that the 2001 ford escape xlt wires under the hood burned while sitting in the garage of her home. She drove the vehicle one hour prior to the fire. The alarms in her house warned her of the fire. She called the local fire department, and they found no fire in the house. They then checked the garage and they smelled something burning. The fireman opened and noticed the wires that were burning under the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to town and country, and they informed her that old brake fluid leaked on the ABS, which was the cause of the wires burning. The vehicle was serviced for the ABS light coming on, and off at the local firestone, they replaced the master cylinder . The wires burned within 24 hours of the repair. The town and country dealership gave the contact a loaner vehicle, and she felt this was odd. The contact stated that the dealership informed her that it would cost $2,416.12 to repair the wires and the ABS. The current and failure mileage were both 67,508. *ak the consumer states that she wants to be reimbursed for all repairs done to her vehicle and has provided all invoices for repair and the report from the fire dept. Update 4/25/07

Filed Feb 25, 2007 · Brakes, Electrical · TX · fire

The car was parked for about an hour when my sister in law saw the fire coming out of the engine area. I turned the fire off with water. The master cylinder was completely burned. All of the wires coming out of the fuse box as well as the ABS wires. The car will turn on but I cant shift it into drive. The brake fuse also burned out.

Filed Feb 11, 2007 · Electrical · TN

My coolant light keeps coming on even though I have enough coolant.

Filed Feb 7, 2007 · Electrical · CA · fire

Car had been parked for 30 minutes with engine off when a fire ignited in the engine, engulfing and destroying the entire car. Ford escape xlt 2001.

Filed Oct 20, 2006 · Electrical, Engine · 59,137 miles · NY

2001 escape has had three repairs in a 6 month time frame do to problems with the ignition coil assemblies. *ts the sparks plug shot out of the cylinder head suddenly three times.

Filed Sep 19, 2006 · Electrical · 33,000 miles · NY

Dt*: the contact stated while driving various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealership who determined the alternator was burnt and was replaced. Nine months later, the vehicle stalled and a burning smell was observed. It was taken back to the dealer who built a casing around the alternator to stop the burning. Two years later, the vehicle stalled again. When taken to the dealer, the battery was replaced. Two years later, the vehicle stalled again. When it was towed to the dealer, it was determined the electrical harness was corroded and rusted and the harness was replaced.

Filed Sep 13, 2006 · Electrical · 41,000 miles · OH

I noticed a 2001 ford escape with a brake hissing problem at 74k I have the same problem at 40k. I've had so many problems with this car that I am considering not to ever by a ford vehicle again. They should have recalls on these so the consumer does not have to pay for their mistakes.

Filed Mar 9, 2006 · Electrical, Transmission · 68,000 miles · GA

Dt*: the contact stated while driving in stop and go traffic, the vehicle had a rough idle and stalled intermittently. The vehicle was taken to dealer for inspection; however the problem could not be duplicated. After a short period of time the vehicle had the same problems again. The vehicle stalled and was towed to the dealer. The dealer replaced the PCM but this did not correct the problem. The dealer stated the wiring under the dash needed replaced. There is a the federal safety agency recall 04v165000, regarding the power train: automatic transmission: control module PCM and a the federal safety agency tsb item #617976, regarding the electrical system: wiring under dash. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall and technical service bulletin; however it is not included in the recall due to the VIN. The consumer was informed the vehicle had an electrical short. Updated 04/11/06.

Filed Jan 17, 2006 · Electrical, Engine · 92,000 miles · VA · fire

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle was parked for 9 hours and it caught on fire. The fire department responded and extinguished the fire. The fire marshal stated the damage was too extensive to determine where the fire started. Most of the fire damage was under the hood on the driver side. The insurance company deemed the vehicle totaled.

Filed Dec 13, 2005 · Electrical · CA

I was unable to turn the key in the ignition of my 2001 ford escape. The steering wheel was also locked. I had to have a locksmith come to start it. The locksmith said there have been many similar problems with all ford ignitions. I had the ignition cylinder replaced at the ford dealership. The dealer said he was unaware of any problems related to ignitions in the escape. I learned from a focus owner that the focus cars had been recalled in late 2000/early 2001 for this same problem. I later learned by calling another ford dealership that the same part is used for both the focus and the escape. Why haven't the escapes been recalled?

Filed Mar 29, 2005 · Electrical · 60,000 miles · VA

The SUV sat parked for a 3 day period. Heavy rain storms moved through area for 1 and 1/2 days of that time however the vehicle was not driven. After the 3rd day, the SUV was started at which time the check engine light started to blink and when accelerator was depressed for power, the engine sputtered. Problem was diagnosed as a 'bad coil pack". It was replaced and given back. After 3 days of driving, the same failure happened again, this time they replaced the "coil pack" and the wiring harness. Just over 6 months later, the same situation occured with the vehicle. It sat for 4 days in which time a severe rain storm came through however vehicle was not driven nor standing in water. Started the vehicle on the 4th day with the exact same result. Vehicle is in ford garage and was notified that the coil pack was damaged due to moisture. These failures are not covered under any warranty and should be happening.

Filed Mar 24, 2005 · Electrical · 38,500 miles · MD · fire

Car spontaneously caught fire 3 hours after being driven. I believe ford is trying to cover-up what really happened by feeding me lines of bs. Incidentally, ford covered 90% of the costs for repair even though my car was not covered by warranty.

Filed Feb 7, 2005 · Body, Brakes · MN

Ford escape 2001, windshield wipers haven't kept windows clear enough to see during rain or snow. *bf the consumer was only getting 10-12 miles per gallon on the highway. The vehicle was hard to drive when it was windy outside. When the consumer attempted to stop the vehicle, the brake went down to the floor and did not come back up for several seconds. The anti-lock brakes did not engage. The consumer spoke to the dealer and he said the brakes must have frozen up. The battery low light was on.

Filed Jan 21, 2005 · Electrical, Lights · 36,568 miles · KY

Vehicle had a recall to reprogram power train control module which was corrected (?) on 6/9/04. On 7/2/04 vehicle would not idle and subsequently would quit running. Taken to dealer and dealer replaced ignition control valve. Dealer states it was not related to the power train control module reprogram. Car was out of manufacturer warranty, with 36,568 miles at time of failure. Other items of concern on this vehicle include the left headlight as defective assembly and allows moisture buildup. Dealer again refuses to acknowledge a defect and refuses to repair at their cost (estimate cost appx. $200 to repair their defect). Other issues include the replacement of a coolant sensor, and replaced a dpfe (environment problem that was covered by warranty).

Filed Dec 27, 2004 · Electrical · 92,855 miles · FL

My 2001 ford escape had to be towed because the key would not turn in the ignition.the dealer explained it as a" anti- theft system" gone bad.so my ignition had to be re-keyed.(had to buy new keys). Of course that took 3 days. I called fords and they said even though there is a code in there computer for this.no recall has been ordered on this problem.

Filed Oct 1, 2004 · Electrical, Steering · PA

While making a right turn into the parking garage vehicle stalled. Consumer was unable to restart vehicle, and had it towed to the dealer for inspection. Mechanic determined that computer sensor crank, and idler arm needed to be replaced. Consumer informed the mechanic that this problem still occurred more than once, and had not been resolved.

Filed Jul 26, 2004 · Electrical · 38,944 miles · TX

Ignition lock cylinder would not turn. Ithad to be replaced by a mechanic. It was replaced under warranty, however, it is said to be a reoccuring problem per brady, tx ford dealership. This problem causes the occupant to become stranded; making them a hazard on the road. Please recall others to avoid this problem in the future.

Filed Jun 8, 2004 · Electrical · 68,000 miles · IL

I have a 2001 ford escape and it was recently recalled for faulty ignition switch. The day before I took it in for the recall, the check engine light came on and it was rough idling. The ford dealer replaced ignition coil and said that was problem for check engine light and rough idle and said they did the recall. Less than a month later my car would not restart after stopping for a few brief minutes. A tow truck was called by ford's roadside assistance and when the tow truck driver arrived an hour and a half later the car started. The tow truck driver said it may have just been a fluke. I drove the car home without it being towed. 2 weeks went by with nothing happening and then one day after another brief stop the car would not start again. This time the tow truck arrived and it was taken to a ford dealer and was kept by them for 2 days to no avail. They still could not find a problem. They returned the car to me and 2 days later the car would not restart again. My husband pushed on the car backwards a few feet while the car was in neutral and to much surprise, the car started again when put tried again. This was very good news as it was late evening on a sat and the ford dealer was not open. Today, 3 days later, my husband stopped for gas and after paying for the gas the car will not restart. The truck is once again being towed to the ford dealer this time for good until it is fixed properly. Luckily these all happened close to home, what if we would have been on a trip or something ? If they cannot fix this problem I would like to be given a new/comparable vehicle. I am almost scared to drive it from fear of it failing me again.

Filed Apr 19, 2004 · Electrical · CT

When inserted key into ignition it would not turn nor start the vehicle. Therefore, having to have SUV towed for service and having the part replaced. The tow truck driver mentioned that he has seen this happen alot in ford cars/trucks.

Filed Apr 14, 2004 · Electrical · TX

Oct 15, 2001- while driving down a steep hill in austin, tx, my escape suddenly died without warning. I was unable to stop, steer, or slow down! I coasted into a parking lot at the bottom of the hill and luckily avoided all parked cars or people (co-workers!) walking through the lot. I had the car towed to maxwell ford and was told that they couldn't find anything wrong with my car! I contacted the president/ ceo to express my concern over what could have happened. He didn't seem to be moved. I picked up my car and hoped it was just a fluke. Two and-a-half years later and not a single problem, until last week (april 9, 2004). I was driving about 40mph around a curve and suddenly lost all ability to steer or slow down! Once again, I was unbelievably lucky that I didn't hurt anyone or myself. I was able to start it again and safely pull over to the side of the road after coasting to a stop. I'm grateful that I wasn't rear-ended or hit head-on when I coasted over the middle line.... (nevermind the heart-attack I almost had from the suddenness of this!) I hate to imagine the outcome if this would have happened 10 minutes earlier while I was moving at 55mph in busy traffic on the highway or on the exit ramp! I have an appt to take the car in on friday. Coincidentally, I discovered (this morning) that a recall has been announced for this very problem.... (2 years after they were made aware that there might be an issue????) what a relief. So, I'll be back on hwy 410 in san antonio next week after I pick my car up from the service dept --- I'll be the one in the ford escape going about 60mph..... I sure hope I'll be able to steer or slow down if I need to!! At least, I'll be better prepared for this "surprise" from now on ( like everytime I have to drive anywhere)! .... Nothing like paying $24,000 for a little extra stress and worry. Thanks, ford. You are just super.

Filed Feb 23, 2004 · Electrical · KY

While driving vehicle stalled. Consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that a sensor needed to be replaced. Mechanic replaced the sensor, but problem recurred.

Filed Feb 10, 2004 · Electrical · OR

While driving vehicle stalled. Consumer tried to restart vehicle but was unable to do so. Consumer had vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic was not able to resolve the problem.

Filed Jan 27, 2004 · Electrical, Engine · 8,478 miles · KY

The vehicle stalled six times within the last 45,000 miles. The dealer replaced the pfe sensor, coolant, instrument cluster, the ignition switch, the front crank seal and the dpfe sensor. After all the repairs the vehicle continued to stall. Please provide further details.

Filed Jan 24, 2004 · Electrical, Engine · 44,000 miles · NE · crash

Auto stalled while going 30 MPH on a slight incline. Auto lost all power steering and electrical. It was lucky that no one was around (early morning). We had to coast to side, and because we didn't have power steering I hit the curb pretty hard. On the way home it did the same thing at about 40 MPH. Will take this to markel ford in omaha, ne for fix. We have 44,000 miles, and if ford cannot get this fixed it will be time to sell. This will be my first and last ford, if I have to pay for this fix. Now I know why my father told me to buy a toyota.

Filed Dec 18, 2003 · Acceleration, Electrical · OR

Engine stalling, intermittent, unpredictable. During various times, days and circumstances. Since 09/25/01 till last time was 12/01/03.

Filed Nov 8, 2003 · Electrical, Engine · CA

Engine unexpectedly stalled and engine lost all powerwhile puling into a driveway. This was the second incident in the last 6 months involving the ford escape that is my company car. I barely missed being hit by another car. The first time was on the freeway at 60 m.p.h. I consider myself luck I was not killed or injured.

Filed Nov 6, 2003 · Electrical · 45,000 miles · GA

Car completely shuts off while driving. There is no warning or symptom that an occurrence is going to happen. This shutdown occurs while vehicle is moving and at varying speeds. This problem seems to be electrical in nature and probrably associated with some ignition componet.

Filed Nov 4, 2003 · Electrical · CA

On two different ocassions, ford escape stalled while driving. Once while going about 25 MPH down hill. The other time, while pulling into a parking lot under 10 MPH. Consumer refused to drive the car any more until a resolution is found. The ford dealer hooked up a computer but could not find any problem.

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