Seems like this is a common problem, and this forum helped me figure it out. But I didn't see any photos, so I shot a couple. This is an '02 Escape with the V-6.

The CC controls worked, and the dash indicator illuminated, but it would not control the throttle. The control cable had become disconnected. Fixed it by snapping it back in place, and added a zip tye to keep it there.

 

while trying to diagnose a problem I cracked the little blueish-green cover tube of the cruise control cable in half. How do I fix or replace that dumb little plastic part? I cracked it about a half inch from the throttle lever where the round section changes into the box section.

 

I had the same problem with my 2002 V6. Also fixed with a zip tie. So far, so good!