CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2004 Ford Escape looks pretty good compared to other Ford Escape model years, but still has a trend of transmission problems, and engine problems from the NHTSA complaint data — so it's not a model year we can recommend.
I currently own 2 Ford Escapes , a 2002 model and a 2004 model. The 2002 is structurally intact while the 2004 model has major rust issues in the right rear quarter panel, shock area. Like other Escapes this one has also rusted completely through causing the rear suspension to fail. Currently I am trying to decide whether I have the time to repair it or paying a professional to fix it or just part out the vehicle. Upon closer inspection, it appears the rust proofing in the rusted area failed, allowing salt/moisture mixture to become trapped and speeding the decay process
Took car in because of noise heard in back, thought it was muffler or bad tire. Upon latest check, found that under the mat carpeted area in hub rear passenger wheel well, it is all rusted out and the shock is barely hanging on. Mechanic said it is a safety hazard and all Ford Escapes have this. His estimated to replace is $1200. Bought car a year ago and there should not be this problem. Dealer where I bought it said I can take it to their collision place but why should I, they should give me a loaner and fix the problem. Or they should of never had vehicle on lot.
So here I am paying full coverage, making car payments for a vehicle that is deemed unsafe to drive. Did take it to Ford dealership and they said it would run $851 + $77 for a new shock if it needs it. Oh, did I also mention that I bought the extended warranty for $1000 extra. This is a major defect with the vehicle and Ford should repair it.
Heard a banging noise coming from the right rear side of my car. Thought I needed new shocks so took it to Sears Automotive. The mechanic looked in the right rear wheel well of the car and would not even put it up on the lift. The entire shock had gone through the floor of my car. He advised me not to drive it anywhere.
Several months ago, my husband took it to a Ford dealer due to a recall because of corrosion!!!. I don't know if I have any recourse against Ford, but I'm sure going to find out. I did some research online and there is one story after another that is identical to mine.
Started hearing a load noise in he rear of the car. Was driving me nuts so I investigated it. Found that the right rear shock tower was completely rusted out. (Wtf). Research the problem and found out I'm not the only one w/ this problem. I think fords should fix this problem as I found out it cost over $ 1200 to repair and there's over 100 complaints on this. Come on ford. Recall this problem.
This rusted out so bad around the shock mount the mount itself came loose and started making a loud banging noise, it also rusted up so high that the seatbelt mount will soon come detached. I can't afford a new vehicle so I will just drive this until someone dies as a result of Fords horrible design.
- Rick S.,
Hopkins, MN, US
Search CarComplaints.com for these popular complaint phrases...
I had gone to the store and on my way back I heard this rattle, I stopped by my local mechanic
and he was the one that told me what it was and that the Escape is not safe to drive. I do not understand what is going on all my large repair bills have been due to rust.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I currently own 2 Ford Escapes , a 2002 model and a 2004 model. The 2002 is structurally intact while the 2004 model has major rust issues in the right rear quarter panel, shock area. Like other Escapes this one has also rusted completely through causing the rear suspension to fail. Currently I am trying to decide whether I have the time to repair it or paying a professional to fix it or just part out the vehicle. Upon closer inspection, it appears the rust proofing in the rusted area failed, allowing salt/moisture mixture to become trapped and speeding the decay process
- bruceblase, Blaine, UK