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CarComplaints.com Notes: With questionable safety ratings, a faulty power control module (PCM) and a rear subframe that can rust out, the first model year Escape is known for problems. But the worst one of all? A design flaw that carried through multiple model years and caused dangerous unintended acceleration.

A lack of clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector meant the throttle could get stick open when the accelerator was fully depressed. Following a petition from the Center for Auto Safety, NHTSA opened an investigation and eventually issued a recall to fix the sticky throttles in the 2001–2004 model years.

Even with the throttles fixed, the 2001 model year could still have trouble stopping due to multiple problems with leaking brakes.

5.0

fairly significant
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
20,000 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2001 Ford Escape brakes problems

brakes problem

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2001 Ford Escape Owner Comments

problem #2

Jan 022008

Escape 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 40,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Escape. The contact stated that brake fluid leaked around the master cylinder, which caused the brake lights to illuminate. The manufacturer sent a memo to vehicle owners stating to purchase a replacement cap. The current mileage was 78,190 and failure mileage was 40,000. The vehicle purchase date was unavailable. Updated 01-29-08. The consumer stated bought a new cap at the cost of $17.61. Updated 01/29/08

- Jackson, TN, USA

problem #1

Sep 042003

Escape

  • miles
Dangerous situation regarding 2001 Ford Escape. The consumers brake fluid system was contaminated. The dealer was notified to have repairs made. The consumer noticed the brake pedal was continuously getting lower to the floor and stopping became increasingly difficult. The vehicle also had a power steering leak.

- Las Vegas, NV, USA

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