Print this page

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.

10.0

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
85,500 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. new k frame (1 reports)
2001 Ford Escape suspension problems

suspension problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2001 Ford Escape:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2001 Ford Escape Owner Comments

problem #1

Oct 302014

Escape XLT 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 85,500 miles

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

click to see larger images

broken control arm broken control arm broken control arm

June 26th 2014 , at 83,503 miles I had the front frame recall service performed of my 2001 Ford Escape.

Park Ford performed this service they said that they inspected the front K frame and install a frame brace, they claimed everything was fine and sent me on my way.

On Oct. 30 2014 at 85,550 miles I was making a left hand turn and the left front control arm completely broke away from the front on the frame nearly causing me to hit a utility pole. As you can see in the Photos the fracture is within a 1/2" of the new Frame brace installed by Park Ford the dealership that gave me the green light to continue to drive this vehicle and put my family and my life at risk. Park Ford claims that there was no way the frame was in this condition when the performed the recall service, but is willing to Discount the repair because they might have missed this during the inspection.

They also let me know that the recall part did what Ford designed it to do prevent a fatality that would have potently cost them money if my family sued, That's Ford for covering your own ASS, while putting mine at risk! A word of advice to all Escape owners take the time to inspect your own frame and decide for yourself that you vehicle is safe to drive you and yours in, clearly Ford is turning a blind eye to this issue.

- 2001 ford, Akron, OH, US

Not what you are looking for?