thinking about buying first escape
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thinking about buying first escape
I'm thinking about buying an escape for my wife to drive. Are there any major issues to watch out for? What are the most common mechanical issues that they have? We are looking at 2002-2006 v6 4wd models.
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Joined: May 2013
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*** Opps. I thought this was a hybrid only thread! My bad!
***
Considering A used FEH myself. Looks like the pre 2006 could have extremely expensive brake repairs if a TSB regarding them has not been done.
I've seen a base 2007 with 67k miles going for $9700 that I am considering. Edmunds says it should sell at a dealer for about $9000. Only problem is it's a light green color. Haven't seen it in the flesh yet.
Happy hunting!
David
*** Opps. I thought this was a hybrid only thread! My bad!
***
Considering A used FEH myself. Looks like the pre 2006 could have extremely expensive brake repairs if a TSB regarding them has not been done.
I've seen a base 2007 with 67k miles going for $9700 that I am considering. Edmunds says it should sell at a dealer for about $9000. Only problem is it's a light green color. Haven't seen it in the flesh yet.
Happy hunting!
David
Last edited by rdskill; May 5, 2013 at 07:46 AM. Reason: newbie boo-boo
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2008
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From: Burleson, Tx
I've got a 2004 and have never heard about the brake tsb.
We have over 265k on it and have always done trans fluid between 30-40k and oil by 5k. Other than that just regular maintenance and have had to put in 2 replacement alternators (from Ford). The other alternators didn't last more than 3 weeks.
Other than the excessive road noise it has been a great vehicle.
We have over 265k on it and have always done trans fluid between 30-40k and oil by 5k. Other than that just regular maintenance and have had to put in 2 replacement alternators (from Ford). The other alternators didn't last more than 3 weeks.
Other than the excessive road noise it has been a great vehicle.
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Joined: Jan 2002
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From: suburban atlanta
Weakest link areas that come to mind are two. The Coil On Plug ignition system needs to be maintained, and the transmission also needs maintenance. If the spark plugs are allowed to wear out, the higher gap can cause arcing through the boots, or COP failure, leading to catalytic converter meltdown due to raw fuel mix burning there instead of in the cylinder. The transmission has been improved a whole lot from the first models used in the Contour/Mystique, but most people don't do any fluid changes, so the fluid breaks down, progressively leading to heat, which is the death knell for transmissions. Ask any transmission shop, and they'll state heat kills.
I think road noise can be related to the tread style chosen, with large chunky tread causing the most noise.
The later models had a problematic transmission, the 6F35, a six-speed, that had leak prone seals, and other problems. Electric steering and drive-by-wire throttle operation are also used later on. Personally, I'm glad I don't have a 2009 or later in that regard.
I think road noise can be related to the tread style chosen, with large chunky tread causing the most noise.
The later models had a problematic transmission, the 6F35, a six-speed, that had leak prone seals, and other problems. Electric steering and drive-by-wire throttle operation are also used later on. Personally, I'm glad I don't have a 2009 or later in that regard.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2008
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From: Burleson, Tx
Tom, you're correct - roads noise would be tires. I should have said wind noise. The few I have ridden in, and most reviews I have read, have had the complaint of wind noise around the front door area.
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2002 V6 Tribute - 208,000 miles and counting
2009 V6 Escape - 145,000 miles and counting
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Thanks for the replies. We found a good deal on a nice '07 XLT, with a 4 cylinder and 4wd, only 90,000 miles. I didn't really want a 4 cylinder, but the price was right and I won't have to drive it so we bought it. The wife really likes it. it is a lot easier for her to drive than my '05 supercrew.
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