2005 FORD ESCAPE Suspension Problems

The right lower control arm separated from the subframe due to subframe rust. It caused loss of handling and rendered the car immobile. It was caused by a panic stop at a low speed. The car was towed to an independent garage where it is awaiting repair. Parts affected were the subframe, CV axle joint and the front fender (From the wheel hitting it when it broke).

Hello, The engine cradle subframe on my 2005 Ford Escape has completely rusted through on the right hand side where it attaches to the steering control arm. As I was driving the subframe broke which made it impossible to steer the car. This pulled my car off the road to the passenger side. Fortunately I was not injured. Having now researched this issue, it is a common problem with 2005 Ford Escapes. This is very dangerous, and it should be addressed as it creates a life threatening situation.

My rear passenger side rusted right out completely and the strut mount is not attached to any part of the body. It caused my vehicle to swirve off the road almost hitting another vehicle when it was raining out also in the snow this occurred several times where my rear end jerked sideways pulling my truck into a complete circle.

Control arm snapped and frame broke

Front left tower rod is going thru the wheel well from rust. This can cause major damage to myself, occupants, and the lives of others outside of the vehicle. The front left seatbelt light continuously alarms as if it is not connected. Is it? The back lights are always out not sure to replacement repeatedly. I'd the seatbelt good enough in an accident, I am not trying to find that it either. The lights are a ticket every time and are another hazard to other motorist. The main wheel rust was told to me upon a failed inspection. It is not fixed at this point just found out and looking for recalls but found many with the same exact hazard. The warning lights go off every minute and a half while driving in the dashboard. This has been since I purchased the vehicle last year. The same goes for replacing the back running light. I don't know if the auto place was aware of these problems, but I'm positive the were just trying to move the vehicle if the lot at this point. The repairs are more than half of the cost just for the wheel rust hazard

I was driving at ~35MPH and suddenly hear a loud clanking sound from the rear right tire. The car has minimal rust however the rear right tire well has extensive internal weakness that caused the shock to disconnect from the frame. This happened completely unexpectedly and could lead to accidents and death. It seems this problem has been reported by hundreds of other drivers of similar makes and models.

RUST THROUGH ON RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER. CAR ONLY HAS 100,089 MILES. HAS BEEN KEPT CLEAN AND WAS BOUGHT FROM CARMAX IN2013 IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. ALL REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE PERFORMED BY PROFESSIONALS SINCE BOUGHT. RESEARCH SHOWS THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL. (IN ADDITION TO THE DOOR OPEN/ALARM PROBLEM OTHERS AND I EXPERIENCE) THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH AS IT INVOLVES THE REAR SHOCK POSSIBLY DISLODGING AND REAR END COLLAPSING. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS AND MAKE FORD FIX THIS PROBLEM! MANY OWNERS BOUGHT THESE VEHICLES USED AND WE CANNOT AFFORD TO FIX THESE( IF THEY CAN BE FIXED AT ALL) MUCH LESS BUY A NEW VEHICLE.

Mileage: 100,082

WHEEL WELL ON REAR PASSENGER SIDE AS REPORTED MANY TIME COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT UNDRIVABLE ONLY 100000 MILES

Mileage: 100,000

WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 65MPH, I HIT A POTHOLE AND IMMEDIATELY HEARD A LOUD BANGING SOUND FROM THE DRIVER SIDE REAR OF MY VEHICLE. AFTER PULLING OFF THE FREEWAY AND INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, I DISCOVERED THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WELL TO BE COMPLETELY RUSTED AND THE SHOCK TOWER WAS SEPARATED FROM THE FRAME.

Mileage: 158,126

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HOUSING OF WHICH THE TOP PORTION OF THE SHOCK CONNECT TO IS RUSTED OUT WHICH MEANS THE TOP PART OF THE SHOCK IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE BODY.

Mileage: 158,000

MY CAR HAS ABOUT 140 000 MILES ON IT. I PUT A LOT OF MONEY INTO IT TO KEEP IT RUNNING SMOOTHLY. I JUST FOUND OUT THAT REAR RIGHT SHOCK COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY FROM VEHICLES BODY AND IT WILL COST THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS TO FIX. I WOULD NEVER EXPECT FORD VEHICLE TO FALL APART LIKE THIS. NOW MY CAR IS JUNK WORTH 200 DOLLARS TO TOW AWAY. I AM VERY DISSAPOINTED.I WILL NEVER BUY FORD AND I AM TELLING EVERYBODY WHAT HAPENNED. CAR STARTED MAKING LOUD BANGING NOISE IN REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL UPON WHICH I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC RIGHT AWAY.HE TELLS ME CAR IS NOT WORTH FIXING.

Mileage: 143,000

RUST AND CORROSION ON THE WHEEL WELL CAUSED THE SHOCK MOUNT TO COME APART. NOW IT IS LOOSE AND VERY DANGEROUS. FORD MUST BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR TERRIBLE DESIGN.

Mileage: 105,000

WAS DRIVING LESS THAN 15MPH WHEN SUDDENLY I LOST ALL CONTROL OF STEERING ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE. WHEN I WAS ABLE TO GET HELP AFTER SITTING ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD FOR 16 HOURS, I WAS INFORMED THAT ONE OF THE THREE WHEEL BEARINGS HAD SNAPPED. I DID A LITTLE RESEARCH AND FOUND THE RECALL FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL ASSEMBLY AND BEARINGS. I ENTERED MY VIN NUMBER AND IT DIDN'T SAY WHETHER OR NOT IT WOULD BE FIXED. I TAKE PRIDE IN MY VEHICLES AND KEEP THE MAINTENANCE UP TO DATE, THEREFORE I CAN SAY THEY THIS HAPPENED DUE TO FAULTY PARTS AND FEEL LIKE I SHOULD BE ABLE TO HAVE IT FIXED.

Mileage: 247,540

PASSENGER SIDE FRAME FENDER WELL GAS TANK STRAP SHOCK MOUNT HAVE ALL RUSTED OUT . THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS ALMOST COME INSIDE THE CAR INSULATION IS HANGING OUT AND THE WIRE HARNESS IS STARTING TO HANG OUT NOT NORMAL FOR A CAR WITH ONLY 114023 MILES

Mileage: 112,050

THE PASSENGER SIDE SUBFRAME RUSTED OUT AND CORRODED CAUSING THE SUBFRAME TO BREAK, RESULTING IN A VERY UNSAFE AND HAZARDOUS VEHICLE.

Mileage: 160,000

I PURCHASED A 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND AFTER PURCHASING IT AND HAVING IT REGISTERED ON MY WAY HOME I GOT TO SOME ROADWAY WITH A LOT OF POT HOLES AND WHEN I HIT ONE I HEARD THIS GOD AWFUL NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR ONLY TO DISCOVER THAT THE REAR SHOCK TOWER WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK JUST SWAYING AROUND UNATTACHED AT THE TOP. AFTER GETTING HOME AND RESEARCHING IT I FIND OUT THAT THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE ESCAPE.

Mileage: 178,998

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK TOWER HOUSING WAS FRACTURED AND PUNCTURED THROUGH THE SUBFRAME. DURING THE FAILURE, THE BRAKE LINE AND REAR BRAKE LIGHT WIRE WERE SEVERED, WHICH CAUSED BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK AND THE REAR BRAKE LIGHT TO MALFUNCTION. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000. *JS

Mileage: 140,000

AS I WAS DRIVING THERE WAS A REALLY LOUD CLUNKING ON THE REAR. I FIGURED IT WAS POTENTIALLY A BROKEN SHOCK. IN THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL WHERE THE SHOCK BOLTS TO THE FRAME WAS COPLETELY RUSTED OUT. WHEN I WAS HITTING BUMPS IT WASNT EVEN ATTACHED TO THE FRAME. THERE WAS NO WAY OF REPAIR. I AM SO GREATFUL I WAS SAFE. AND DIDNT GET INTO AN ACCIDENT. ONE WRONG BUMP. AND THE WHOLE SHOCK WOULDVE WENT THROUGH THE TRUNK AND COULD HAVE CAUSED A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT.

THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL HAS COMPLETELY ROTTED AWAY, SO THE BODY OF THE CAR IS SLAMMED AGAINST THE SUSPENSION BARS, OBVIOUSLY CAUSING DAMAGE AS WELL AS AN UNBEARABLE CRASHING BANG ANY AND EVERY TIME YOU HIT A BUMP. I AM UNSURE IF MY WHEEL IS GOING TO COME OFF OR HOW LONG BEFORE MY FRAME WILL BE BENT. I HAVE SEEN SIMILAR COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SAME MAKE MODEL AND YEAR AND IT IS ALWAYS THE BACK WHEEL WELL.

Mileage: 60,000

WHILE DRIVING HER 2005 FORD ECAPE AFTER COMING TO AN ABRUPT STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. MY DAUGHTER FOUND STEERING EXTREMELY DIFFICULT, WITH VEHICLE PULLING EXTREMELY TO THE RIGHT THEN SWERVING INTO THE OTHER LANE TO THE LEFT UPON TRYING TO CORRECT FOR THE PULL. SHE PULLED THE CAR OVER AND FOUND THAT WITH THE STEERING WHEEL STRAIGHT AHEAD THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL WAS POINTING OUTWARD TOWARD THE CURB WITH THE TOP OF THE WHEEL TILTED INWARD TOWARDS THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS UNDRIVABLE AND WAS TOWED HOME. VISUAL INSPECTION BY AN EXPERIENCED MECHANIC FOUND THAT EXTREME CORROSION OF THE SUBFRAME AT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM FRONT MOUNTING POINT HAD CAUSED THE SUBFRAME TO SEPERATE AND ALLOW THE LOWER CONTROL ARM TO BEND OUTWARDS AND CAUSE EXTREME MISALIGNMENT.

Mileage: 120,000

CRACK SUB FRAME ON RIGHT FRONT! EXTREME DETERIORATION ALMOST CAUSING ACCIDENT AND BECAME UNSAFE TO DRIVE! RECALLS ON 2001-2004 FOR SAME PROBLEM WHY NOT 2005? EXTREMELY DANGEROUS MALFUNCTION! DEFINITELY GO IMPORT IF THIS IS WHAT FORDS QUALITY AND SUPPORT HAS BECOME!

Mileage: 206,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED AND THE SHOCK MOUNT HAD SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THE SHOCK MOUNT FAILURE. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.

Mileage: 115,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, SHE HEARD A STRANGE SOUND AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWERVE. THE DRIVER PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO CHECK FOR A FLAT TIRE, BUT THE TIRES WERE FINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME AND THEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTS ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WERE DAMAGED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 189,319.

Mileage: 189,319

07/13/2019. I OWN A 2005 FORD ESCAPE , MANUFACTURING DATE 04/04 . TODAY I WAS DRIVING HOME I NOTICED A VERY LOUD WHISTLING NOISE , DIFFICULTY STEERING AND ESPECIALLY WHEN ATTEMPTING TO TURN. LUCKILY MADE IT TO MY DRIVEWAY AND MY HUSBAND LOOKED AT THE VEHICLE AND SAID BOTH FRONT TIRES WERE LEANING INWARD SO HE LOOKED UNDERNEATH TO FIND MY SUBFRAME IS ALL BUT RUSTED INTO ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. I KNOW THIS WAS A PROBLEM FOR ESCAPES 2001-2004 OBVIOUSLY FORD DID NOT GET THIS SITUATION FIXED FOR THEIR 2005 MODELS. FORD I WANT MY SUV FIXED!!. YOU KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH PREVIOUS YEARS NOW DO THE RESPONSIBLE THING AND FIX IT.

Mileage: 187,000

DRIVING TO A STOP LIGHT, I APPLIED THE BRAKE AND MY FRONT K-FRAME FAILED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, AT THE LOWER A-FRAME.

Mileage: 137,434

RUSTED REAR SHOCK MOUNT, BAD SUSPENSION CAUSING UNSAFE DRIVING.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME FRACTURED WHILE TURNING THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING LOT. THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY STOPPED AND ONE OF THE TIRES BECAME DETACHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. MIKE CASTRUCCI FORD LINCOLN OF ALEXANDRIA (7400 ALEXANDRIA PIKE, ALEXANDRIA, KY 41001, (859) 448-9400) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 163,000.

Mileage: 163,000

TAKATA RECALL THE 01 THRU 04 WERE RECALLED FOR SAME PROBLEM THE FRONT SUBFRAME RUSTED IN TO CAUSING THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL TO WONDER ALL OVER IF DROVE ANY MORE WOULD HAVE CAUSE A SERIOUS WRECK I WAS DRIVING VEHICLE WHEN I NOTICED THAT IT FELT LIKE THE FRONT WHEEL WAS COMING OFF LUCKILY I WAS ONLY A COUPLE MILES FROM HOME THE DAY BEFORE I TOOK MY GRANDSON TO CHARLESTON WV TO MEET HIS MOM IF IT WOULD HAVE BROKEN ON I 77 AT 70 PLUS MILES AN HR COULD HAVE BEEN TRAGIC IT BEING THE SAME ISSUE WITH EARLY MODELS AND FORD SENT A BAR TO TRY N FIX IT A JOKE JUST LEARN THIS ON INTERNET

Mileage: 179,015

BEGAN HEARING TERRIBLE NOISE FROM REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL. INVESTIGATION REVEALED THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL AND FRAME WERE RUSTED OUT. AFTER REPLACING THE WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK MOUNT TOWER, STILL EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS DUE TO FRAME BEING RUSTED OUT. NO LONGER ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE FOR SAFETY REASONS AND IT IS HEADED TO THE SCRAP YARD.

Mileage: 130,000

I WAS CHECKING TO SEE IF MY FORD POSSIBLY HAD A RECALL WITH THE ISSUE I AM HAVING AND IT APPEARS THAT THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME ISSUE I AM HAVING. MY REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL ALSO HAS RUSTED OUT CAUSING THE SHOCK TO COME LOOSE AND IT IS NO LONGER ATTACHED AND WHILE DRIVING IS MOVING AROUND IN WHAT SOUNDS LIKE MY TRUNK. I HONESTLY CANNOT BELIEVE THAT WITH ALL THESE SAME ISSUES I AM READING THIS IS NOT A RECALL THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE.

Mileage: 178,000

THE RIGHT REAR "WHEELHOUSE PANEL" RUSTED OUT AROUND THE SHOCK ABSORBER UPPER MOUNTING BRACKET CAUSING THE SHOCK ABSORBER TO BECOME DETACHED AND NON-FUNCTIONAL WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, MAKING A TURN. THIS CAUSED RIDE AND HANDLING CONCERNS WHICH AFFECTED VEHICLE SAFETY. I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE AND EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR, ~ $1,500.00.

Mileage: 130,000

THE ESCAPE STARTED MAKING A SQUEAKING NOISE FOR ABOUT 3 DAYS WHILE DRIVING IT ON CITY STREETS AND ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEN IT STARTED MAKING A LOUD CLUNKING NOISE AND WAS BANGING LIKE SOMETHING BROKE LOOSE. WE THOUGHT THE SHOCKS BROKE. UPON CLOSER INSPECTION WE NOTICED THAT THE FRAME AT THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK HAD CAME OFF BECAUSE THERE WAS NOTHING FOR IT TO ATTACH TO. WE HAVE THE CAR PARKED BECAUSE IT IS TOO DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. IT ONLY HAS APPROXIMATELY 80,000 MILES. OUR DAUGHTER HAD JUST PURCHASED IT IN MAY 2017 FROM A LOCAL CAR DEALER. I HAVE RESEARCHED BUT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THIS AND THERE VERY MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME ISSUES WITH DIFFERENT YEAR ESCAPES.

Mileage: 80,000

RIGHT REAR STRUT MOUNT SEVERELY RUSTED AND UNSAFE TO DRIVE. SHOCK ABSORBER COULD COME THRU RUSTED MOUNT ON REAR PASSENGER SIDE. MAKING ALL KINDS OF NOICE WHEN DRIVING. I TALKED TO BODY SHOP SAID FORD ESCAPES ARE RENOWN FOR WALKER SITTING AND RUSTING OUT THESE REAR RIGHT MOUNTS. THE BODY SHOP SAID TFSTVFORD HAS KNOWN ABOUT THIS SERIOUS UNSAFE DEFECT.

Mileage: 148,000

THE AREA AROUND THE SHOCK SUPPORT HAS SLMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THIS IS SUPER UNSAFE.

Mileage: 201,000

THE DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT, LARGE HOLE IN BODY, SHOCK WENT RIGHT THREW THE BODY OF THE CAR. THIS HAPPENED EXTREMELY FAST, I JUST PUT NEW TIRES AND BRAKES ON THE CAR. THIS DEFECT IS EXTREMELY UNSAFE AND POISED A SAFETY CONCERN FOR ME AND MY CHILDREN. THE CAR CAN'T BE SOLD OR TRADED IN AND NOW HEADED TO THE JUNKYARD

Mileage: 157,000

REAR FRAME RUSTED THROUGH AS WELL AS PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK TOWER,RUSTED SO BAD CAN SEE THROUGH TO OUTSIDE IN 2 SPOTS WHICH ALLOWS EXHAUST FUMES INTO INTERIOR OF VEHICLE ,COULD CAUSE EXPHIXIATION TO OCCUPANTS AS WELL AS LOSS OF CONTROL DUE TO REAR OF VEHICLE GIVING WAY AND BREAKING IN TWO ON A ROADWAY,DAMAGE WASN'T VISIBLE UNTIL IT TOTALLY BUSTED THROUGH WHILE DRIVING! FORD SHOULD RECALL DUE TO SAFETY AS THE 2004 WAS.

Mileage: 162,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE HEARD NEAR THE AREA OF THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS RUST IN THAT AREA, WHICH WAS AFFECTING THE SHOCKS. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE LOWER BALL JOINT FRACTURED DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,000.

Mileage: 109,000

HIT A POTHOLE AND MY SHOCK/STRUT PUNCHED THRU THE RUSTED WHEEL WELL AND DETACHED OTAELF...IT IS NP LONGER SAFE TO DRIVE AND IVE ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR 2 MONTHS. AND HERE THE 2001-2004 ESCAPES HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR JUST THIS REASON? WHY NOT THE 2005 WHEN THE WHOLE BODY DESIGN IS THE SAME... I HAD A 2001 ESCAPE BEFORE THIS THAT WAS RUSTING ON THE OUTSIDE WHEEL WELLS AND BEGINNING TO RUST INSIDE AS WELL... DUE TO THIS I DONT BELIEVE I WILL BE BUYING FORDS ANYMORE... I WAS IN THE CAR WITH MY KIDS WHEN THIS HAPPENED! AND NOW IM STUCK WITH A GIANT PIECE OF METAL SITTING IN MY PARKING SPOT AS NO ONE WILL TAKE ON THE JOB AND IF THEY DO IT WOULD BE A MIN OF $2000 OR MORE!

Mileage: 144,000

OF COURSE I HAVE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM AS MOST FORD ESCAPE OWNERS HAVE WITH THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTING COMPLETELY OUT. THIS IS A KNOWN MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT ONLY EFFECTS THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL OF THESE VEHICLES AND THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF UNADDRESSED OWNER COMPLAINTS. FORD STILL WILL NOT DO A RECALL NOR WILL THEY DO ANYTHING FOR THEIR THOUSANDS OF AFFECTED CUSTOMERS. I DO HOPE THERE IS A CLASS ACTION SUIT I CAN JOIN BECAUSE FORD JUST WILL NOT DO THE RIGHT THING FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS. I JUST HAD MY CAR IN FOR REGULAR MAINTENANCE AND I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE GOING OUT-OF-STATE TO VISIT MY DYING FATHER WITH MY KIDS BUT NOW I CAN'T EVEN GO DUE TO THIS UNEXPECTED DEFECT WHICH FORD WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHICH HAS LEFT ME WITH A VEHICLE I CANT DRIVE THAT I'M STILL PAYING FOR. I CAN'T EVEN TRADE IT IN BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE! THANKS FORD! I WILL MAKE SURE TO TELL EVERYONE I CAN ABOUT FORD'S INDIFFERENCE TOWARDS ITS CUSTOMERS AND I WILL NEVER BUY FORD ANYTHING EVER AGAIN!

Mileage: 124,000

PASSENGER-SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTED THROUGH, SHOCK TOWER IS BANGING AGAINST INNER FRAME, CHUNKS OF RUST DISLODGING AND SCRAPING AGAINST TIRE. THIS IS OCCURRING WHILE DRIVING. I PUSHED THE CHUNK BACK AND IT SEEMS TO BE STAYING OFF THE TIRE FOR NOW. FORD AUTO REPAIR SHOP QUOTED $5000 TO REPAIR. MY DAILY COMMUTE TO WORK IS ACROSS TWO MAJOR CITIES VIA A HIGH-TRAFFIC MAJOR HIGHWAY. POTENTIAL TO BE A SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS CONDITION SINCE IT AFFECTS NOT ONLY SUSPENSION BUT COULD CAUSE TIRE TO BLOW OUT WHILE DRIVING, AS WELL AS PUNCTURING THROUGH TO THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE AND EXPOSING PEOPLE IN THE CAR TO EXHAUST AND FRIGID WEATHER (MINNESOTA) IN THE WINTER. THIS RUSTING THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM WITH FORD - THEY RECALLED THIS MAKE AND MODEL UP THROUGH 2004 FOR THIS SAME ISSUE.

Mileage: 150,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL ROTTING FROM THE INSIDE OUT DUE TO IMPROPER POWDER COATING. STRUT MOUNT RUSTING AND SEPARATING FROM VEHICLE FRAME.

Mileage: 114,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WAS RIDING ROUGHLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK FRACTURED, AND THE ENTIRE SHOCK TOWER WAS RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL CAMPAIGN REGARDING THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.

Mileage: 114,000

(RECOMMENDING THIS COMPLAINT BE DELETED; SAME VEHICLE AS 11110799) TL- THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN RIDING ROUGH IN THE REAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AT A REPAIR FACILITY DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHOCK TOWER HAD EXTENSIVE RUST, CORROSION AND THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK FRACTURED SO THE SHOCK TOWER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER INDICATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL CAMPAIGN TO PROVIDE A REMEDY, DID NOT SUGGEST THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF THE VEHICLE MAY BE REPAIRED BY THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC OR A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000. DYD

Mileage: 114,000

RUSTED OUT PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL. I DO *NOT* LIVE IN THE RUST BELT. WAS DRIVING ON RESIDENTIAL STREET AND HEARD A LOUD NOISE FROM THE AFFECTED AREA WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP. THE NOISES INCREASED DURING DRIVING FOR THE NEXT 2 DAYS. I FINALLY GOT UNDER THERE TO LOOK AT IT AND FOUND THE SHOCK TOWER MOUNT HAD NEARLY SEPARATED FROM THE REST OF THE WHEEL WELL, AND THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETED ROTTED AND DETERIORATING. THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE IN THIS CONDITION.

Mileage: 204,000

AFTER HITTING A BUMP IN THE ROAD LOUD NOISES STARTED COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL AREA. AFTER GETTING HOME I DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE BODY. I HAVE FOUND MULTIPLE ISSUES IDENTICAL TO THIS IN AN ONLINE SEARCH. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THE 2005 ESCAPE AND SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER A SAFETY RECALL. THERE ARE EXISTING RECALLS ON 2001-2005 FORD ESCAPES FOR RUST ISSUES.

Mileage: 85,725

THE REAR SHOCK TOWER BLEW COMPLETELY THREW INSIDE OF SUV BLOWING DEBRIS EVERYWHERE MY DAUGHTER'S CAR SEAT WAS LOCATED ON THAT SIDE SHE COULD HAVE BEEN HURT OR KILLED AN SUV BEGAN HOPPING TO THAT SIDE WHEN IT HAPPENED AN ALMOST LOST CONTROL THE METAL IT WAS MOUNTED TO IS PAPER THIN THE TITLE IS THICKER. THIS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE ITS STRUCTURAL AN A RECALL SHOULD BE MADE IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM FROM WHAT I'VE READ WHY HAS NOTHING BEEN DONE AN WHEN I WENT TO LOCAL DEALER I WAS TOLD 6 GRAND TO FIX IT IT ONLY BOOKS AT HIGHEST 4500 FOR THE VALUE OF SUV I FEEL VERY DISRESPECTED AN BRUSHED OFF AN THEY DIDN'T EVEN LOOK AT SUV FORD OR SOMEONE NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO EXPERIENCE THIS OR PAY MINE IS IN MINT CONDITION OTHER THAN THIS AN GREAT SUV THE DRIVE SIDE IS STARTING TO CRACK AS WELL THIS SIDE CONTAINS FUEL HOSE AN I DON'T BELIEVE THEY EVEN SELL REPLACEMENT PANEL FOR DRIVER SIDE I MAY BE WRONG. AN I WAS DRIVING ON MAIN ROAD WITH MY FAMILY TAKING A NORMAL LEFT HAND TURN NO BUMPS OR SHARP TURN AT SPEED OF 35 TO 40 POSTED HIGHWAY SPEED

Mileage: 150,000

MY REAR RIGHT SHOCK MOUNT IS ALL RUSTED OUT AND I CAN'T DRIVE IT NOW.

Mileage: 1

DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND TRUCK STARTING MAKING A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE IN THE BACK. WHEN WE GOT HOME, WE LOOKED UNDERNEATH AND FOUND MAJOR RUSTING IN PASSENGER WHEEL WELL. SHOCK COMPLETELY RUSTED FREE AND BOUNCING UP TO HIT THE PLASTIC INSIDE THE VEHICLE. TOOK IT TO BODY SHOP MECHANIC AND UPON INSPECTION, HE SHOWED US THAT THE FRAME ITSELF IS RUSTED THROUGH AND VEHICLE CANNOT LEGALLY BE FIXED AND IS TECHNICALLY NOT EVEN SAFE TO DRIVE. LESS THAN 133,000 MILES AND BOUGHT USED 2 YEARS AGO, WE ARE VERY FRUSTRATED WITH THE QUALITY OF THIS VEHICLE. SEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS TRUCK AND SHOULD HAVE BE RECALLED. THEY RECALLED YEARS 2001-2004 FOR THE SAME ISSUES, BUT DID NOT INCLUDE THE 2005. SHAME ON FORD MOTOR COMPANY FOR SUCH POOR WORKMANSHIP! PLEASE HELP!!!

Mileage: 132,790

2005 FORD ESCAPE. CONSUMER WRITES SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR VEHICLE REPAIRS. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE COMPUTER CONTROL MODULE CAUSED THE COILS TO FAIL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE THERE WAS A TSB FOR THE FAILURE AND BELIEVED THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE PUSHED OUT OF THE HIGHWAY AND INTO A PARKING LOT. *JS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, A WHISTLING NOISE AND A BURNING ODOR EMITTED THROUGH THE VENTS OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT THE INNER WHEEL WELL ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WAS CORRODED. THE CONTACT IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL, AND DID NOT OFFER FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,250.

Mileage: 177,250

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER HAS EXCESSIVELY RUSTED OUT CAUSING THE CAR TO BE UNSAFE.

Mileage: 234,000

PURCHASED VEHICLE IN APRIL 2017 2 MONTHS LATER HEARD A BANGING NOISE FROM REAR PASSENGER SIDE UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION DISCOVERED THE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK HAD CAME THROUGH. I CONTINUED DRIVING IT BECAUSE I COULDN'T AFFORD TO FIX IT AND IT WAS MY ONLY CAR NOW THERE IS NO WHEEL WELL LEFT AND HAD TO REMOVE THE SHOCK.

Mileage: 100,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LASCO FORD (2525 OWEN RD, FENTON, MI) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHOCK ABSORBER WENT THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 135,000.

Mileage: 135,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE. HEARD BUMP FOLLOWED BY NOISE WHILE DRIVING. CHECKED CAR, FOUND PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL BROKEN, UPPER ATTACHMENT PLATE FOR SHOCK ABSORBER NOW IN VEHICLE INTERIOR. APPEARS THAT WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT FROM THE INSIDE: HIDDEN FROM OUTSIDE BY UNDERCOATING IN WHEEL WELL AND HIDDEN FROM INSIDE BY VEHICLE INTERIOR PANELS. 04 AND EARLIER MODELS RECALLED FOR SAME PROBLEM. WHY NO RECALL ON 05 AND NEWER? MANY HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE FOR THIS PROBLEM.

Mileage: 180,000

WAS DRIVING AT 40 MILES AN HOUR HIT SLIGHT BUMP IN ROAD.SOUNDED LIKE WHOLE BACK END FALLING OFF WITH LOUD BANG. STOPPED GOT OUT CHECKED BACK END ON RIGHT REAR SUBFRAME HOLDING STRUTT TOWER HAD SEPERATED FROM FRAME CAUSING SHOCK AND HOUSING TO COME UP INSIDE OF CAR. THIS COMPLAINT HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO FORDS ATTENTION. AN THEY REFUSE TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. THEY SHOULD BE MADE TO FIX THIS AS MANY PEOPLE ARE BEING FORCED TO GET RID OF A GOOD VEHICLE THAT WOULD STILL BE DRIVABLE IF THIS WAS REPAIRED. WE SHOULDN;T BE FORCED TO GET RID OF A GOOD CAR BECAUSE THEY DON;T WANT TO MAKE IT RIGHT. I AM FILING THIS COMPLAINT LIKE MANY OTHERS HAVE I HOPE YOU JUST DON'T FILE IT AWAY. THEY HONORED THIS PROBLEM IN 2001-2004 BUT THEN AFTER THAT ENDED RECALLS FOR IT THIS IS NOT RIGHT.

Mileage: 134,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL PROTRUDED OUTWARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO SAFELY PULL THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT REACHED OUT TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WENT TO THE SCENE AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM FAILED DUE TO CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, WHICH CAUSED THE WHEEL TO WOBBLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V165000 (STRUCTURE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 163,000.

Mileage: 163,000

WHEN I WAS DRIVING I HEARD SOME LOUD NOISE AND WHEN I STOPPED I FOUND THAT THE REAR PASSENGER STRUT SHOT UP THRU THE BACK INTERIOR OF THE CAR.THIS WAS DUE TO THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL RUSTING OUT.I ALSO WAS DRIVING ANOTHER TIME WHEN THE FRONT END STARTED TO SHAKE.I STOPPED AND GOT OUT AND SEEN THAT THE FRONT TIRES WERE FACING SIDEWAYS.THE TIE ROD BROKE.I COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY HURT OR KILLED.

Mileage: 138,000

FRONT SUBFRAME (CRADLE) RUSTED THROUGH DIRECTLY ADJACENT TO THE FRONT MOUNTING LOCATION FOR THE LOWER CONTROL ARM. HAVE ONLY OWNED THE VEHICLE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. PURCHASED FROM PALLOTTA FORD IN WOOSTER, OHIO. VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. FORTUNATELY, IT WAS AT LOW SPEED AS THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL JAMMED INTO THE REAR OF THE WHEEL WELL AND BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO AN ABRUPT HALT. HAD IT TOWED TO MY HOUSE WHERE I INSPECTED THE FRONT SUSPENSION AND THEREBY OBSERVED THE WASTAGE OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME.

Mileage: 122,500

RUST CAUSED THE SEPARATION OF THE LOWER CONTROL ARM FROM THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PRIMARILY USED IN A SALT-BELT STATE. THE ISSUE BECAME EVIDENT AFTER A SMALL POTHOLE CAUSED THE REAR FRAME TO PUNCTURE THROUGH THE PASSENGER REAR WHEELHOUSE INTO THE CAB OF THE VEHICLE CAUSING A HIGH-PITCHED SQUEAL AND STEERING DIFFICULTIES..

BOUGHT CAR USED. SHOCKTOWER RUSTED OUT.NOT REPLACED

Mileage: 131,000

THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAS ROTTED OUT, LEAVING THE SHOCK HANGING FREELY ABOVE THE WHEEL, UNATTACHED. I FIRST BECAME AWARE OF THE ISSUE AS THE CAR WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET, WHERE I HEARD A LOUD BANG IN THE BACK RIGHT OF THE CAR, AND THE NOISE CONTINUED AS THE CAR WENT OVER BUMPS. IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE THE DAMAGE THE RUST WAS CAUSING TO THE AREA UNTIL THE SHOCK MOUNT CAME FREE, AS THE SEALANT USED IN THE WHEEL WELL HID THE DAMAGE-- APPROXIMATELY EVERY 3-6 MONTHS I EXAMINE THE CAR FOR RUST AND NOTICED NO EXTREME DAMAGE TO THIS AREA PREVIOUSLY.

Mileage: 105,050

THE REAR PASSENGER STRUT WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT OF THE WHEEL WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS SENT TO A FORD DEALER TO INSTALL A "KIT" AND WELD THE STRUT BRACKET TO THE WHEEL WELL. I FOUND THE PROBLEM AFTER HEARING SIGNIFICANT CLUNKING NOISE IN THE BACK AS I DROVE.

Mileage: 125,658

HEARD A BANGING IN THE TRUNK AREA ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, CHECKED IT OUT AND THE WHOLE WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED OUT, THE SHOCK WAS BARLEY ON. I WAS ON A CITY STREET. TOOK IT TO WHERE I BOUGHT IT AND THEY GAVE ME AN ESTAMET OF $1,145.99. I AM WONDERING WHY THIS VIN IS NOT COVERED IN A RECALL.

Mileage: 71,000

I WAS PULLING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY, TURNED AT THE CORNER, HIT A SMALL BUMP AND HEARD A LOUD BANGING SOUND LIKE THE REAR GATE DOOR WAS NOT CLOSED, STOPPED AT THE CORNER PUT IT IN PARK, GOT OUT AND OPENED THE REAR GATE AND RECLOSED IT, GOT BACK INTO MY VEHICLE, TURNED LEFT HIT ANOTHER SMALL BUMP, AND HEARD THE LOUD BANGING NOISE AGAIN, STOPPED AT THE 4 WAY CORNER STORE, PARKED AND GOT OUT AND WALKED AROUND MY VEHICLE TO INSPECT IT, AND NOTICED THE RUST ON THE PASSENGER REAR SIDE, SOME OF IT HAD FALLEN OFF AND I COULD SEE THE STYROFOAM ON THE INSIDE OF THE PASSENGER REAR TIRE WELD.I CALLED THE DEALER WHERE I AM PURCHASING THE VEHICLE AND THEY SAID I COULD TAKE IT TO THEIR GUY TO LOOK AT IT, TOOK IT TO HIM AND HE SAID THAT I HAD A REAL PROBLEM AND THAT IT NEEDED TO BE WELDED, WENT BACK TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID I COULD TAKE IT TO THEIR GUY TO FIX, BUT THEY DID NOT KNOW WHEN THEY COULD GET ME IN FOR AN APPOINTMENT. I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER MECHANIC, AND HE STILL HAS IT, TRYING TO LOCATE THE REAR END OF ANOTHER FORD ESCAPE TO FIX IT.

Mileage: 186,000

PASSENGER REAR TOP STRUT/SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OUT. MAKES VEHICLE KIND OF USELESS. BEEN TOLD THIS SEEMS TO B A COMMON PROBLEM.

Mileage: 200,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH OVER A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD BANGING NOISE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS SEVERELY RUSTED. IN ADDITION, THE SHOCK ABSORBER BECAME DISCONNECTED FROM THE FRAME OF THE WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Mileage: 120,000

MARCH 20, 2017. FRONT END PASSENGER SIDE SUBFRAME RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE CAUSING SEVERE STEERING ISSUES. THIS FAILURE IS SIMILAR TO THE FAILURES THAT RESULTED IN THE 2004 AND BEFORE MODEL YEARS TO BE RECALLED BY FORD. THIS ISSUE STILL PERSISTS IN NEWER MODEL YEARS.

Mileage: 103,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 42 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLANKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND NOTED THAT THE SHOCK ABSORBER HAD DETACHED FROM THE WHEEL WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WHEEL BEARINGS FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE EVEN AFTER BEING REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,000.*DT *TR

Mileage: 172,000

ROTTED OUT SUBFRAME ASSEMBLY, MECHANIC DECLARED CAR UNSAFE AT ANY SPEED. FORD RECALLED THIS PROBLEM 2001-2004 BUT DID NOT EXTEND TO 2005. FORD DEALER REFUSED TO WORK ON VEHICLE.

Mileage: 150,000

PASSENGER REAR IS RESTED SHOCKS STRUTS DETACHED

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WHEEL WELL WAS CORRODED ALL THE WAY THROUGH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BECAUSE THE LOWER CONTROL ARM WAS CORRODED THROUGH THE ENTIRE FRAME UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V165000 (STRUCTURE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. ...UPDATED 05/17/17 *BF *CN

Mileage: 100,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SHOCK WAS NOT CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH RUST BETWEEN THE SHOCK AND THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE FRAME. THE SHOCK ABSORBER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 188,000.

Mileage: 188,000

I OWN A 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND RECENTLY BEGAN HEARING A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE. UPON INSPECTION, I FOUND THE ENTIRE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WELL HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK WAS NOW COMING THROUGH THE REAR WELL INTO MY CAR. THIS HAS MADE MY CAR COMPLETELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I HAVE MADE A COMPLAINT WITH FORD AS WELL AS ON HERE IN HOPES THAT FORD WOULD DO THE RESPONSIBLE THING AND TAKE CARE OF IT. IT IS QUITE OBVIOUSLY FORD KNOWS ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND IS REFUSING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR IT. IT IS HARD TO MISS THE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS WEBSITE FOR THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. NOT TO MENTION FORD HAS ALREADY RECALLED THE 2001-04 FOR THIS EXACT SAME ISSUE. FOR THE ABSOLUTE RIDICULOUS AMOUNT THAT IT COSTS TO FIX THIS ISSUE, I PERSONALLY WOULD FEEL MUCH SAFER PUTTING MY TIME AND MONEY INTO A NEW VEHICLE. OBVIOUSLY, THAT VEHICLE WILL NOT BE A FORD.

Mileage: 150,000

PASSENGER REAR INNER WHEELHOUSE THAT HOLDS SHOCK ABSORBER ROTTED AND SHOCK FELL OUT FORD KNOWS THERE IS A PROBLEM BECAUSE THEY HAVE UPDATED THE PART WITH A LATER MODEL ESCAPE PART SO TO DENY THERE IS PROBLEM WHY DID THEY UPDATE THE PART AND DISCONTINUE MAKING THE PART THAT CAME ON 2005 ESCAPE

Mileage: 125,000

NOTICED UNDERCOATING PEELING OFF IN WHEEL WELL(REAR PASSENGER SIDE). PULLED OFF AND ALSO FOUND A 3IN. CIRCLE OF METAL LOOSE. HAVE SEEN OTHER(300+) REPORTS OF THIS RUST PROBLEM ON THIS WEB PAGE. I AM ORIGINAL OWNER AND VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS BEEN GARAGED WHEN NOT IN USE AND HAS LESS THAN 70K MILES. THERE ARE NO HANDLING OR NOISE ISSUES YET.

Mileage: 65,000

WE STARTED TO HEAR A VERY LOUD BANGING COMING FROM THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE WHEN WE DROVE OVER EVEN THE SMALLEST BUMP. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETELY RUSTED THOUGH (YOU CAN SEE THE INTERIOR) AND THE WHEEL COULD FALL OFF AT ANYTIME. THE CAR IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH OUT A VERY EXPENSIVE REPAIR. AFTER LOOKING ONLINE I FOUND THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON OCCURRENCE AND THAT 2001-2004 ESCAPES WERE RECALLED FOR THE SAME ISSUE.

Mileage: 125,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE. REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK MOUNT COMPLETELY RUSTED/BROKEN. WHEEL WELL AND FENDER COMPLETELY ROTTED OUT WHILE THE REST OF THE VEHICLE HAS NO RUST AT ALL. WHY HAS FORD NOT RECALLED THE 2005 ESCAPE, AFTER SEEING THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME ISSUE

ALMOST SUDDENLY, A LOUD RATTLING SOUND FROM THE REAR STARTED LAST WEEK. WHEN INSPECTED, TO MY SHOCK, THE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS TOTALLY, TOTALLY ROTTED OUT . THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN BEEN GARAGED AND CAREFULLY MAINTAINED SINCE WE BOUGHT IT. IN FACT, FOR THE PAST 8 YEARS--IT HAS BEEN BASICALLY DRIVEN ABOUT 16 -20 MILES PER DAY. AND AGAIN--GARAGED DAY AND NIGHT. AND NOW, ALMOST IMMEDIATELY, IT APPEARS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. AS A RESULT, I'M NOW SEARCHING FOR ANOTHER CAR TO BUY--NOT WANTING TO SPEND +$1,200 ON THIS REPAIR.

Mileage: 102,000

BACK PASSENGER SHOCK MOUNT COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND FOUND OVER 500 COMPAINTS FOR SAME EXACT PROBLEM.

UNDERBODY IS ALL RUSTED, ONLY 57,000 MILES AND STORED INSIDE, EXCEPT WHEN DRIVING. *TR

Mileage: 57,000

VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A NOISE IN PASSENGER REAR WHEEL. UPON INSPECTION I OBSERVED THAT THE WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH WHERE THE SHOCK IS MOUNTED. LEARNED THAT THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT FROM THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS

Mileage: 105,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR SHOCK TOWER IS RUSTED TO THE POINT WHERE THE TOP OF THE SHOCK IS NOT SECURED TO THE UNI-BODY FRAME. WHEN GOING OVER A BUMP THERE IS METAL TO METAL CONTACT. WHILE NOT RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH, A SCREWDRIVER CAN BE EASILY POKED THROUGH THE RUSTY METAL ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE SHOCK TOWER AS WELL. THIS HAS OBVIOUSLY BEEN SLOWLY RUSTING THE LAST FEW YEARS BUT WAS NOT VISIBLE UNTIL THE INNER PANELS WERE REMOVED ALLOWING ACCESS TO THE INNER WHEEL WELLS. MY GRANDCHILDREN HAD BEEN RIDING IN THEIR CAR SEATS IN THIS VEHICLE. A REAR OR REAR SIDE ACCIDENT WOULD HAVE BEEN CATASTROPHIC.

Mileage: 155,000

STARTED HEARING A CLUNKING SOUND ON THE REAR SHOCK. BACK REAR SHOCK TOWER ROTTED OUT. NOT EVEN ANYTHING TO WELD IT TOO. HAD TO HAVE IT REBUILT.

Mileage: 150,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING OVER A HUMP IN THE ROAD, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD BANGING NOISE. THE CONTACT PERFORMED A TEST DRIVE AND DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAD A RUSTED HOLE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS DETACHED FROM THE ORIGINAL MOUNT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.

Mileage: 70,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL ROTTED OUT CAUSING SHOCK TO BREAK THROUGH TRUNK AND CAUSE LOUD BANGING. FORD CHARGES $1,548.40 TO FIX. NOW AS IN OTHER ESCAPES, YEARS 2001-2004, THE 2005 SUB FRAME OR SUSPENSION CONTROL ARM IS RUSTED THAT HOLDS UP THE ENGINE AND THE FRONT OF THE CAR! THERE IS A VIDEO ON YOUTUBE THAT SHOWS THE CORROSION ON THE PARTICULAR SPOT. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. HIT ONE POTHOLE OR BUMP AND ENTIRE ENGINE AND FRONT OF CAR CAN COLLAPSE! FACEBOOK HAS ENTIRE PAGE FOR 2005 FORD ESCAPE SUB FRAME RUSTING!!! SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET HURT!

Mileage: 86,806

I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE THAT STARTED MAKING SOUNDS IN THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING IN THE TOWN STREETS COMING HOME WHEN I HIT BUMPS. WE LOOKED AT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WELL AND THE SHOCK MOUNT IS RUSTED THROUGH. THE BODY IS RESTING ON THE COIL. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT DUE TO THE DANGER OF THE BODY COMING DOWN ON THE WHEEL.

Mileage: 220,100

WENT TO REPLACE REAR SHOCKS. REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED AND I COULD MOVE SHOCK MOUNT TOWER WHEN TRUCK IS BOUNCED. ALSO HAVE BANGING AND BOUNCING GOING ON. RIDES ROUGH AND HAVE A RUST HOLE AND CAN SEE TIRE BELOW. BAD ENGINEERING DESIGN. THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD FESS UP AND CORRECT THIS, BUT THEY WON'T THEY GOT THEIR MONEY!!!

Mileage: 84,000

WHEN I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE FROM CALL LOT TOLLED THEM BRAKES WERE GOING OUT HE TEST DRIVE AND HE SAID THEY WERE FINE SO I TOOK HIS WORD THEN A FEW DAYS LATER MY WATER RATETERAVOTER HOSE BUSTED I HAD TO GET THAT THEM FIXED AND THEN THEY CHARGED ME TO FIX IT THEN A FEW DAYS LATER I HERE A THUMP ON THE BACK OF MY VEHICLE THE WHOLE BACK OF MY WHEEL AREA BY THE WHEEL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT THERE NO PROTECTION ON THE WHEEL AND THE STRUSTS WHERE BUSTED THEY HAD STUFF STUFFED IN IT SO YOU COULDN'T TELL WENT TO TALK TO THEM ABOUT IT THEY SAY THIS HAPPENS THERE NOTHING THEY COULD FOR ME BUT TO CHARGE ME FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS TO FIX IT I DONE NOTHING BUT HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE AND THIS ISN'T THE FIRST ONE I'VE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE ARE SELLING VEHICLE WITH SAFE HAZARDS I PAID OUT 1000.00 OUT ON A CAR TEST DROVE IT AND GUESS I SHOULD OF TEST DRIVE IT LONGER BUT I DIDN'T I BOUGHT IT AND WAS ON MY WAY TO PUT GAS IN IT AND THE MOTOR BLOW UP. I HAD STATE POLICE WAIT WITH ME ME AND MY 16 YEAR OLD WAS STUCK IN HIGH TRAFFIC BECAUSE THE MOTOR BLOW STATE POLICE SAID HE HAD TO GET THERE AND TOLL THE CAR AND HE BOUGHT A TRAILER WITH A FLAT TIRED TO TRY AND TOLL IT OFF THE STATE POLICE MADE HIM LEAVE AND CALLED FOR A TOLL TRUCK THE CAR LOT REFUSED TO GIVE ME MY MONEY BACK SO I COULD GO SOME WHERE ELSE SO I BOUGHT A ANOTHER CAR IT WAS IN FAIR CONDTION BUT WHEN WATER STATED HITTING MOTOR IT ENDED UP GETTING TOTAL BY INSURANCE COMPANY SO STILL COULDN'T GET MONEY BACK MADE ME PAY OUT ANOTHER 600.00 OUT FOR THE VEHICLE AND AFTER I GAVE HIM THE MONEY HE WROTE OUT SOLD AS IS AND COULD NOT TRADE VEHICLE OR GET MY MONEY BACK SO I FEEL LIKE HE KNEW SOMETHING WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE BECAUSE HE DIDN'T WRITE THIS ON THE LAST TWO VEHICLES.

TAKATA RECALL: PASSENGER REAR PANEL RUSTED OUT INSIDE WHEEL WELL

LAST MONDAY MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE CARGO AREA ITEMS STARTED BUMPING SEVERELY WHEN GOING OVER ROAD IMPERFECTIONS. BY FRIDAY THE SUSPENSION WAS SHIFTING WHEN DRIVING OVER SAME IMPERFECTIONS. I GOT OUT AND LOOKED AT THE BACK END AND FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED COMPLETED THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL. I ONLY HAVE 114,000 MILES ON THE CAR AND LIKE SO MANY OF THE OTHER COMPLAINTS THE MECHANIC I HAD LOOK AT IT SAID THAT SHOULDN'T HAVE HAPPENED AND SURELY THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON IT. WHEN I CHECKED THE INTERNET, NO RECALL. I'M VERY NERVOUS DRIVING, BUT HAVE NO OTHER OPTIONS AT THIS POINT.

Mileage: 114,000

THE SHOCK MODULE ON THE RIGHT REAR PASSANGER SIDE HAS DETERIORATED AND HAS BECOME DISLODGED FROM THE WHEEL WELL. THIS HAS MADE THE SUV UNDRIVABLE. THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON A NEWLY PAVED ROAD, GOING OVER A GENTLE HILL. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE OVER THE HILL, THERE WAS A LOUD CLANK AND THE VEHICLE SERVED SLIGHTLY (THANKFULLY NO ONCOMING TRAFFIC WAS PRESENT). UPON DRIVING HOME THERE IS AN EVIDENT CLANKING HEARD IN THE REAR AND THE SUV CAN BE FELT TO SWERVE SLIGHTLY FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. THIS OCCURRENCE HAS ONLY HAPPENED TO THE RIGHT WHEEL WELL AND IS NOT EVIDENT IN ANY OTHER WHEEL WELL. IF ROAD SALT OR WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE TO BLAME, EQUAL DISTRIBUTION AT ALL 4 WHEEL WELLS WOULD BE EVIDENT, BUT THE OTHER 3 ARE FINE WITH NO RUST OR DETERIORATION PRESENT. SEARCHES ON THE INTERNET HAVE SEEN THOUSANDS OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS, ALONG WITH PICTURES AND THE DAMAGE ALL APPEARS TO BE THE SAME - AND ALSO APPLIES TO MODEL YEARS 2004, 2005, AND 2006.

Mileage: 150,000

VEHICLE SUDDENLY STARTED MAKING A BANGING SOUND SO I TOOK VEHICLE INTO OUR MECHANIC. APPARENTLY THE PASSENGER SIDE SUSPENSION WAS NOT PROPERLY SEALED AND THE SHEET METAL IN THE WHEEL WELL HAS DETERIORATED TO THE POINT IN WHICH THE SHOCK TOWER HAS DISCONNECTED FROM THE VEHICLE FRAME. I WAS REFEREED TO A AUTO WELDING SHOP BY MY MECHANIC AND WAS SURPRISED TO SEE THAT THERE WERE TWO OF THE SAME VEHICLES AT THE FACILITY HAVING THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM RESOLVED. THE MECHANIC AT THIS WELDING SHOP SAYS THAT HE IS REPAIRING PERSONALLY 3 FORD ESCAPES PER WEEK FOR THE EXACT ISSUE AND HE WAS ABLE TO SHOW ME THE TWO THAT HE HAD JUST REPAIRED OVER THE PAST TWO DAYS. I AM NOW MORE SHOCKED TO SEE THAT THERE ARE OVER 500 COMPLAINTS WITH THIS EXACT SAME COMPLAINT JUST AT THIS NHTSA.GOV SIGHT AND THAT THERE ARE LITERALLY THOUSANDS OF OTHER IDENTICAL COMPLAINTS POSTED ON THE INTERNET. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY UNSAFE SAFETY ISSUE. THE FACT IS THAT THE LOUD BANGING NOISE IS ENOUGH TO CAUSE MOST OWNERS TO PAUSE AND TO LOOK INTO THE MATTER AND THUS TYPICALLY THIS ISSUE DOES NOT RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. HOWEVER, SAFETY ISSUES AND RECALLS SHOULD NOT ONLY INVOLVE ACCIDENTS OR CASUALTIES. THIS IS A VERY REAL PROBLEM IMPACTING EVERY SINGLE 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND COSTING CONSUMERS HUNDREDS AND THOUSANDS IN REPAIRS THAT FORD REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE.

Mileage: 140,000

THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT DISCONNECTED FROM THE BODY BECAUSE OF RUST...EARLY YEARS WERE RECALLED FOR THIS PROBLEM

WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY STARTED HEARING A LOUD SOUND AND THE CAR BECAME BUMPY AND BOUNCY. PULLED OFF THE FREEWAY, BUT COULD NOT IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. TOOK TO A GARAGE AND TOLD RIGHT REAR INNER SHOCK MOUNT AND FENDER PANEL HAD ROTTED. FORD HAD A REPLACEMENT PART FOR THIS CONDITION, BUT DID NOT HAVE A RECALL. LABOR COST DUE TO WELDING WAS $1300.00, TOTAL COST 1,966.00. HOW COULD FORD HAVE A REPLACEMENT PART, BUT NOT A RECALL? TRIED 3 GARAGES ONLY 1 (WHO HAD A WELDER) WOULD CONSIDER THE JOB. CAR COULD NOT BE DRIVEN...CONDITION WORSENED QUICKLY AND HAD TO DRIVE 10 MPH TO GET ESTIMATES WITH BLINKERS ON...HOPING NO ONE WOULD HIT US. SCARY! HAD TO REPLACE INNER SHOCK MOUNT AND FENDER PANEL, INSTALL , WELD, AND SEAL. ALSO NEEDED NEW REAR SHOCKS.

Mileage: 80,000

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH; LEAVING THE STRUT BOUNCING FREELY. THE CAR CAN NOT BE DRIVEN AT THIS TIME. AT THE TIME IT BROKE, IT ALMOST BOUNCED ME INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AS IT HAPPENS TO ALL 2004-2006 ESCAPES. ....UPDATED 07/11/16 *BF

Mileage: 15,000

ENTIRE RIGHT WHEEL WELL OF THE VEHICLE IS RUSTING AWAY. THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS MOUNTED TO THIS SHEET METAL, SO IT IS NO LONGER EFFECTIVE, MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE VEHICLES AND FORD WILL DO NOTHING TO COMPENSATE ME. CURRENTLY HEARING A LOUD THUMPING AT EVERY BUMP, DUE TO THE SHOCK BECOMING DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE.

Mileage: 130,000

THE ENTIRE RIGHT SIDE SHOCK MOUNT AND WHEEL WELL TOTALLY RUSTED AND HANGING ON BY A THREAD. MY 18 YEAR OLD SON COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED HAD WE NOT DISCOVERED IT. I HAVE READ HUNDREDS OF THESE COMPLAINTS WHICH IS HOW WE DISCOVERED THAT THIS WAS THE SAME NOISE WE WERE HEARING AND DECIDED TO LOOK AT RIGHT SIDE BACK DOOR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL. WE CAN LITERALLY MOVE IT UP AND DOWN. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET KILLED FROM THIS BECAUSE THE WHEEL CAN FALL OFF!!!! THANK GOODNESS WE HEARD THE NOISE WHILE DRIVING AND INVESTIGATED IT.

Mileage: 120,000

RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER MOUNT IS COMPLETED RUSTED AWAY CAUSING THE SHOCK TO TRAVEL UP INTO THE WHEEL WELL

Mileage: 120,000

RUST AROUND QUARTER PANEL BACK END, RUST THROUGH PASSENGER WHEEL WELL AREA. TO THE PUT THE IT IS RUSTING AND EVENTUALLY THE WHEEL WELL WILL NO LONGER WHOLE THE STRUT IN. WHICH PUTS ME AT RISK OF GETTING SERIOUSLY HURT. THIS SUV IS LOCATED IN A SOUTHERN STATE NO REASON FOR IT TO RUST LIKE THAT. I'VE SEEN AND OWNED OLDER VEHICLES THAT DIDN'T RUST .BAD METAL OR RUST PROTECTION. TO GET FIXED I'M LOOKING AT 1000.00 TO 4000.00 WHO HAS THAT TO PAY FOR SOMETHING LIKE THAT WHEN FORD KNOWS THERE IS A ISSUE AND HASN'T FIXED IT YET.

Mileage: 7,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK MOUNT BRACKET RUSTED AND DISLODGED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.

Mileage: 125,000

THE REAR PASSENGER-SIDE SHOCK MOUNT (WHERE IT MOUNTS TO THE UNIBODY) HAS RUSTED COMPLETELY AWAY. THE TOP OF THE SHOCK IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE.

Mileage: 113,750

REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED THRU TO THE INTERIOR. SHOCK ABSORBER IS ABOUT TO SEPARATE FROM THE BODY. UNSAFE TO DRIVE. QUOTED $2,200 TO REPAIR.

Mileage: 130,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT CAUSING THE STRUT TO BREAK THROUGH THE TRUNK OF THE CAR . IT ALSO HAVE BAD RUST ON THE OTHER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HWY. UPON TAKING IT TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP WAS TOLD THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE.

Mileage: 107,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE 4X4 V6 PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL HOUSE RUSTED SIGNIFICANTLY ENOUGH TO CAUSE REAR WHEEL SHOCK CONNECTED TO WHEEL HOUSE TO FORCEFULLY SEPARATE AND BEGIN COLLIDING WITH THE INSIDE PLASTIC MOULDING IN THE TRUNK OF THE CAR. DAMAGE WAS INITIALLY FOUND WHILE IN MOTION, NOTICED BY A RATTLING NOISE IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION AND REMOVAL OF THE PLASTIC TRUNK HOUSING, THE ENTIRE TOP OF THE WHEEL WELL WAS VERY CLEARLY RUSTED. THE SHOCK WAS STILL CONNECTED TO A PIECE OF THE WHEEL HOUSE. THE REAR PASSENGER SHOCK HAD FORCEFULLY DISCONNECTED THE PIECE OF THE WHEEL HOUSE IT WAS ATTACHED TO BECAUSE OF THE OVERWHELMING AROUND OF RUST. AUTO-BODY SHOP QUOTED A $2,000 REPAIR (FOR A CAR BOUGHT FOR #3,600) TO ORDER A NEW WHEELHOUSE AND INSTALL IT. PROFESSIONAL AUTO BODY SHOP TEAMS QUOTED THAT THE ISSUE WASN'T SOMETHING YOU COULD PATCH OR LIGHTLY REPAIR, AND THE SHOCK WOULD NEED TO BE REATTACHED TO THE BODY OF THE CAR TO BE DRIVEN SAFELY. FORD WAS CONTACTED TWICE AND REPLIED WITH THEIR APOLOGIES THAT THE CUSTOMER WAS EXPERIENCING THIS ISSUE, KNOWINGLY AWARE THAT THE 2001-2004 MODELS OF THIS VEHICLE WERE RECALLED FOR THE EXACT SAME ISSUE AND THAT HUNDREDS OF OTHER CUSTOMERS HAVE SEEN THIS ISSUE AROUND 120,000 MILES. THE ISSUE SEEMS TO ALWAYS BE ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WITH NO SIGNIFICANT RUST OR DAMAGE ON THE DRIVERS SIDE.

Mileage: 123,000

THE SHOCK MOUNT ON THE RIGHT REAR RUSTED OUT DETACHING THE SHOCK FROM THE BODY AND PIERCING THROUGH THE UPPER PLASTIC COVER IN THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING AT SLOW SPEEDS WHEN THIS HAPPENED. FORD SHOULD HAVE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS BECAUSE HAD IT BROKE AND SEPARATED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE VEHICLE COULD HAVE LOST CONTROL! SECOND, FORD DOES NOT HAVE THE REPLACEMENT PARTS AVAILABLE EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE A LOT OF 2005 ESCAPES ON THE ROAD. ALSO AUTO BODYSHOPS ARE UNWILLING TO DO ANY MODIFICATIONS OR WIELDING DUE TO THE LIABILITY OF THE LOCATION AND IMPORTANCE OF THAT PIECE. SO THE VEHICLE IS UN REPAIRABLE AT THIS TIME!

Mileage: 137,000

THIS CAR HAS 80000MILES ON IT AND IS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT IN THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER. I HAVE BEEN QUOTED 5000 TO FIX THE CAR TO MEET SAFETY STANDARDS. I CAN SEE THE TIRE ALL THE WAY THRU THE METAL.

RUSTED OUT WHEEL WELL EFFECTING THE SHOCK ABSORBER TOP MOUNT COULD BREAK FREE WHILE DRIVING. I HEARD A NEW RATTLE INVESTIGATED AND FOUND MY WHOLE WHEEL WELL ABOVE THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT IS RUSTED OUT. GOT PRICES FROM FOUR FORD DEALERS RANGING FROM 900.00 TO 4000.00 TO REPAIR IT ALL OF THE DEALERS WERE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND HERD OF MANY OTHER EXAMPLES. I AM WONDERING WAY THERE HASN'T BEEN A RECALL?

Mileage: 114,346

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR SHOCK TOWER HAD SEVERE CORROSION, WHICH CAUSED THE REAR SHOCKS TO FRACTURE AND SEPARATE FROM THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE REAR HATCH WINDOW SUPPORT WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Mileage: 100,000

WHILE I WAS DRIVING I NOTICED A BANGING NOISE IN THE REAR OF MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE THAT WAS GETTING LOUDER, WHEN I LOOKED AT BOTH SIDES I NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER REAR WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. I TOOK MY ESCAPE TO THE CAR REPAIR SHOP AND WAS QUOTED $1000 FOR THE REPAIR AND WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. I STARTED DOING SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH 2004 AND 2005 FORD ESCAPE THAT THEY DIDN'T PROPERLY SEAL ONE SIDE OF THE CAR, AND THAT THEY HAD ONLY RECALLED THE 2004. I HAD CONTRACTED THE FORD MOTOR CO. AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY HAVE NO RECORD OF ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAVING THIS PROBLEM, I THEN INFORMED THEM THAT THERE ARE A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBLEM AND SHE SAID THAT THEY HAVE NO RECORDS. I FEEL THEY SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS REPAIR SINCE IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM THEY HAD WITH THE 2004 FORD ESCAPE. MY CAR ONLY HAS ONLY 93,000 MILES WHEN THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED. THIS SUV IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AND YOU ARE UNABLE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE WHEN THIS PROBLEM OCCURS.

Mileage: 93,000

I HAD FINANCE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE XLT AFTER HAD THE VEHICLE FOR TWO MONTH I NOTICE A STRANGE SOUNDS FOR THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE I TRACK AND FOUND OUT THAT THE REAR. UNDERNEATH THE CAR PANEL WHERE THE SHOCKWAS AT IS RUSTED ALL THROUGH. THE THE FRONT TIRE IS WEAR AND THE VEHICLE IS DRIVING BAD SHOCKS STRUCT AND WHEEL ELIGNMENT WAS ALL EFFECT WITH THE RUST PANAL FROM SHOCKS...

IN JULY OF 2015 I BROUGHT MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE TO THE DEALER BECAUSE OF VERY LOUD NOISE IN THE REAR WHILE DRIVING. NOISE WAS THE SAME WHETHER ON A STREET OR THE HIGHWAY. THE MECHANIC FOUND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. I HAVE A FRIEND WITH THE VERY SAME MAKE, MODEL, YEAR AND IS NOW GOING THROUGH THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. THERE ARE OTHER AREAS OF RUST ON THE BODY THAT SEEMS TO ME TO BE COMING ON PREMATURELY. I SEE THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE, BUT ONLY UP TO MODEL YEAR 2004. PLEASE....THE 2005'S HAVE THE VERY SAME ISSUE!

Mileage: 118,000

REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL RUSTING OUT AROUND SHOCK ATTACHMENT. JUST DISCOVERED THIS TODAY BUT THROUGH ONLINE RESEARCH IT APPEARS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AND SHOULD BE A KNOW ISSUE TO THE MANUFACTURER - THEY HAD A RUST RECALL FOR 2001 - 2004 MODELS

Mileage: 64,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE EMITTED A LOUD SNAPPING NOISE, WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER STRUTS CORRODED CAUSING THE REAR PASSENGER SHOCKS TO FRACTURE, SEPARATING FROM THE WHEEL WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

Mileage: 180,000

LOUD BANGING COMING FROM RIGHT REAR OF VEHICLE DRIVING DOWN CITY STREET. BROUGHT VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIR AND WAS TOLD THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER SHOCK TOWER WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH THE VEHICLE BODY TO THE POINT OF ENTERING THE VEHICLE INTERIOR. I AM TOLD THAT THE REAR AXLE CAN TEAR AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE RESULTING IN ACCIDENT AND POSSIBLE INJURY OR DEATH.

Mileage: 188,120

RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT, BOUGHT CAR BRAND NEW, ONLY 60,000 MILES ON IT . COME TO FIND OUT ALL FORD ESCAPES THIS YEAR ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM BECAUSE THIS IS A SUSPENSION AND HANDLING ISSUE, CAR WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND KEEP IN LANE. THE PROBLEM HAS IT'S OWN FACEBOOK PAGE, 2004-2006 FORD ESCAPE. VERY POOR ENGINEERING DESIGN MOUNTING SHOCK TO SHEETMETAL.

Mileage: 59,000

THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY AND THE BODY IS COMING AWAY FROM THE FRAME AND THE SHOCK TOWER IS LOOSE FROM THE FRAME. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE ESCAPE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY FORD BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED OR INJURIED.

Mileage: 169,000

MY SON WAS COMPLAINING THAT THE BACK END OF THE CAR BEGAN RATTLING AND "JUMPING" WHILE DRIVING IN THE CITY IN NOV OF 2015. WE HAD IT CHECKED OUT IN DEC AND WAS TOLD AND SHOWN HOW UNSAFE THE CAR WAS TO DRIVE,DUE TO THE ENTIRE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AND STRUT WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. THE ONLY THING THAT WAS HOLDING THE WHEEL TO THE CAR WAS THE PLASTIC MOLDING OF THE TRUNK AREA WHICH WAS ALSO MELTING AWAY FROM THE HEAT.I COULD NOT BELIEVE A CAR COULD DISINTEGRATE AND DETERIORATE SO BADLY. IN GOOD CONSCIOUS THE AUTO REPAIR OWNER WOULD NOT ALLOW US TO DRIVE THE CAR ANYMORE. NOR WOULD I WANT TO. PLUS, THE COST TO FIX IT WAS NOT WORTH THE PRICE OF THE CAR,AND HE COULDNT FIX IT. HE TOLD ME TO LIST IT ON CRAIGS LIST TO SELL THE CAR IN PARTS. THE REST OF THE CAR IS IN GREAT CONDITION , AFTER I SPENT $6000, TO BUY THE CAR IN AUG OF 2014, THEN ANOTHER $2000 FOR 4 NEW TIRES, BRAKE LINES, AND OIL LEAKS!! WHO KNOWS WHAT ELSE WOULD HAVE COME UP. I JUST GLAD MY SON DID NOT GET HURT DRIVING HOME FROM COLLEGE 21/2 HRS ON THE HIGHWAY. I WISH I KNEW ABOUT THIS EXACT COMMON PROBLEM OF 1000 OTHER PEOPLES COMPLAINTS. FORD NEEDS TO BE ACCOUNTABLE OF THE PARTICULAR PROBLEM OF FAULTY MATERIAL. I DO NOT KNOW HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE GOTTEN HURT, AND HOW MANY MORE NEED TO GET HURT BEFORE SOMETHING IS DONE,

Mileage: 117,000

I'VE BEEN TOLD THE REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED OUT ON THIS UNIBODY CONSTRUCTED VECHICLE. WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR, AND IF I HIT ANY SORT OF A BUMP IN THE ROAD, HUGE SOUND FROM THE BACK AS IF THE REAR END OF THE CAR IS GOING TO FALL OFF. I UNDERSTAND MANY OTHERS HAVE HAD SIMILAR PROBLEM. COST TO FIX, IF POSSIBLE IS ABOUT $4000. CAR IS WORTH ABOUT THE SAME AMOUNT. I WAS TOLD BY AUTO BODY GUY THAT A RECALL ON THIS MAY EXIST OR THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND MAY BE OFFERING UP A FIX.

Mileage: 141,000

HEARD A NOISE NEAR REAR WHEEL HOUSE. UPON INSPECTION IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE WHEEL HOUSE ON THE PASSENGER REAR WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED TO THE POINT THAT THE SHOCK WAS JUST BARELY HANGING ON. THE REPAIR WOULD COST MORE THAN THE VEHICLE IS WORTH. LOTS OF COMPLAINTS ON SAME ISSUE THAT FORD REFUSES TO ADDRESS OR CORRECT. SHOULD BE COMPENSATION AND/OR A RECALL. ALSO LOOKS LIKE THE SAME THING IS HAPPENING TO THE OTHER SIDE. NICE JOB FORD!

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, AN ABNORMAL NOISE EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAD SEPARATED FROM THE BODY OF VEHICLE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,000.

Mileage: 99,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THE STRUT IS NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE BODY OF THE CAR.

Mileage: 170,000

WAS DRIVING ALONG CITY STREET WHEN I WENT OVER A SMALL BUMP, HEARD A LOUD THUD! THE WHEEL WELL ON BACK PASSENGER SIDE WAS RUSTED AWAY WHERE THE STRUT CONNECTS. OR WHERE IT WAS ONCE CONNECTED... 155,673 MILES, THIS IS MY ONLY VEHICLE AND UNSAFE TO DRIVE MY FAMILY IN.

SON CAME HOME ONE DAY SAID THERE IS A LOT OF NOISE IN THE BACK OF THE ESCAPE. ONCE LOOKING INSIDE THE BACK OF THE TRUCK, I NOTICED I COULD SEE THE DRIVEWAY AND TIRE. ONCE I WENT TO LOOK IN THE WHEEL WELL, I COULD SEE A VERY LARGE HOLE IN THE WHEEL. TOTAL RUST OUT OF PASSENGER SIDE INNER WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER. THE HOLE HAS TO TO BE AT LEAST 16" WIDE AND 13" HEIGHT. THE REAR SHOCK IS COMPLETELY DISCONNECTED FROM THE BODY SHEET METAL. IT IS ONLY BEING HELD IN PLACE BY THE LOWER SHOCK ABSORBER BOLT AND NUT. VEHICLE ONLY HAS ABOUT 100,000 MILES. TOTALLY AFRAID TO LET MY SON DRIVE THIS TO COLLEGE. SITTING IN DRIVEWAY UNTIL I CAN FIND SOMEONE TO FIX IT. CALLED TWO FORD DEALERSHIPS AND SAID THERE IS NOT RECALL AND IT IS UP TO ME TO FIND SOMEONE TO FIX IT. THEY TOLD ME OVER THE PHONE IT WOULD BE $5,000 TO REPAIR THIS. THIS WILL BE THE LAST FORD WE EVER BUY IF WE HAVE TO SCRAPE THIS BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *JB

Mileage: 100,000

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS A NOISE IN THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS ONLY. WE COULD NOT LOCATE THE NOISE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. (IT SOUNDS LIKE THE GLASS OR THE TIRE JACK, WERE NOT SECURE.) THE AUTO SHOP EXPLAINED, THAT THE VEHICLE IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE SHOCK, AND IT ALONG WITH EXHAUST IS COMING IN THROUGH THE TRUCK AREA. EXPLAINED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS A 'DEATH TRAP' IF HIT FROM BEHIND, THE VEHICLE THAT HIT THIS ONE WOULD GO RIGHT THOUGH THIS VEHICLE. ACCORDED TO THE AUTO SHOP, THE ISSUE IS NOT FIXABLE.

Mileage: 136,547

2005 FORD ESCAPE REAR LEFT INNER WHEEL WELL RUSTED THROUGH AND SHOCK SUPPORT BROKEN LOOSE IT HAS 150,000 MILES ON IT.

Mileage: 150,000

MY PASSENGER REAR END IS ALL RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK HAS COME THRU MY VEHICLE. IT SOUNDS HORRIBLE, AND WAS TOLD IT WAS VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE, AS THE SHOCK ISN'T CONNECTED TO THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE NOW. IT WILL COST MORE THEN IT'S WORTH, AND THIS IS THE ONLY VEHICLE THAT I HAVE TO DRIVE ME AND MY FAMILY AROUND IN.

Mileage: 200,000

AFTER HITTING POTHOLE A LOUD BANGING SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM REAR STORAGE AREA ON PASSENGER SIDE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SERVICE SHOP AND WAS SHOWN THAT REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT LEADING TO SHOCK TOWER BREAKING LOOSE FROM BODY AND PROTRUDING INTO THE REAR CABIN AREA. SERVICE MANAGER SAID THIS WAS LIKELY DUE TO CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF BODY INTEGRITY IN THAT AREA AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. HE ALSO STATED THAT HE HAD SEEN THIS ON OTHER 2005 FORD VEHICLES (WINDSTAR VAN). GIVEN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BODY THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THE AFFECTED PORTION WOULD NEED TO BE CUT OUT AND CUSTOM FABRICATED TO REPLACE THE CUT OUT AREA, LIKELY COSTING NEARLY AS MUCH AS THE VEHICLE IS WORTH.

Mileage: 182,000

WHEN I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70 MPH, I BEGAN TO HEAR A CLUNKING SOUND FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. IT HAPPENED EVERY TIME I HIT EVEN A SMALL BUMP OR CRACK. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE BODY SHOP, THEY DISCOVERED THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS CORRODED; RUST/ROT HAS CAUSED THE SHOCK MOUNT TO BECOME NEARLY COMPLETELY DETACHED FROM THE FRAME. IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, AND BODY SHOPS WON'T EVEN PROVIDE AN ESTIMATE FOR REPAIRS AS THE DETERIORATION IS TOO EXTENSIVE, AND THEY CAN'T FIX IT. A QUICK ONLINE SEARCH SHOWS THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH 2005 ESCAPES, AND MUST BE ADDRESSED FOR SAFETY. THE BODY SHOP OWNER TOLD ME NOT TO TAKE THE CAR ON THE INTERSTATE BECAUSE IF I WERE TO HIT A BUMP AT 65 MPH, I WOULD BE "ASKING A LOT OF THIS CAR TO HOLD TOGETHER." THE CLUNKING SOUND IS NOW CONSISTENT NO MATTER WHAT SPEED OR SURFACE I AM DRIVING ON.

Mileage: 139,000

WHEEL WELL ROTTED OUT CAUSING SHOCK TO BREAK LOOSE AND CREATE UNSAFE VEHICLE. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE STREET WHEN IT FINALLY LET GO AND SAW DEBRIS FALL ALL OVER ROAD AND HEARD A LOUD BANG FROM PASSENGER SIDE REAR OF CAR.

Mileage: 127,654

OUR 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS RUSTED THROUGH BEHIND THE RIGHT REAR TIRE. WE HEARD LIKE A LOUD BANG WHEN DRIVING IT AND FOUND THE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED AND BROKEN AS IS THE SHOCK TOWER AND THE RIGHT REAR TAIL LIGHT HAS ITS WIRES CUT DUE TO THE BROKEN FRAME. WE OWE MONEY ON THIS VEHICLE AND WE CANNOT DRIVE IT RIGHT NOW. THIS IS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE AND WE HAVE CONTACTED FORD WITH ALL THE PERTINENT INFORMATION.

Mileage: 145,648

2005 FORD ESCAPE, HAVE HAD A LOT OF CLUNKING IN BACK OF CAR, AND THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL IS FALLING/RUSTING APART (OTHER WHEEL WELLS ARE NOT, JUST REAR PASSENGER SIDE) RIGHT WHERE SHOCK ABSORBER IS MOUNTED. LARGE RUSTED OUT HOLE IN WHEEL WELL, AND IF I PRESS AROUND THE WHEEL WELL, THE BLACK COATING CRUMBLES REVEALING CRUMBLING RUST BEHIND IT. MANY OTHER 2005 ESCAPE OWNERS WITH SAME ISSUE. I HAVE NO MONEY TO FIX THIS; THIS IS A DANGEROUS FLAW SHOULD IT BREAK THROUGH WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS. SHOULD BE RECALLED AND FIXED BY FORD. IT CAN'T BE SAID THIS IS JUST "NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR" WHEN ONLY THE ONE WHEEL WELL IS CONSISTENTLY THE ONE THAT IS RUSTING WHILE THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS DO NOT. I HAVE 125K ON MY ESCAPE, BUT WHO KNOWS HOW LONG THE HOLE HAS BEEN THERE.

Mileage: 125,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETETLY ROTTED/RUSTED AND INVOLVES SHOCK MOUNT. IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND RESEARCH SHOWS THAT THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL. I HEARD RATTLING WHEN I WENT OVER A BUMP AND WHEN I LOOKED AT THE REAR CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE I SAW THAT THE WHEEL WELL WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED BY RUST.

Mileage: 90,000

REAR RIGHT SHOCK MOUNT RUSTING THROUGH . K-FRAME ROTTED THROUGH RIGHT FRONT SIDE

Mileage: 96,393

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT SO BAD THE LOWER CONTROL ARM TO THE REAR TIRE IS CLOSE TO SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE SUBFRAME. CAR UNSAFE TO DRIVE

Mileage: 123,000

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, HEARD A LOAD BANG IN THE BACK OF THE CAR ON THE RIGHT SIDE. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE I NOTICED THAT THE INNER WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK WAS NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE. LOOKS LIKE THE FRAME MAY BE CRACKED UNDER THE ATTACH POINT OF THE UPPER STRUT MOUNT.

Mileage: 76,564

WHEN TRAVELING AT 40MPH, A THUMPING NOISE COULD BE HEARD IN THE REAR OF 2005 FORD ESCAPE. UPON VISUAL INSPECTION, THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY CORRODED, EXPOSING THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. THE MOUNT OF THE SHOCK SUSPENSION IS CORRODED SO BADLY THAT THE SHOCK IS NOWHERE ATTACHED TO THE BODY AND IS WHAT CAUSES THE THUMPING SOUND AS IT PUSHES UP INTO THE CAR INTERIOR. NO OTHER WHEEL WELLS ON THE CAR HAVE ANYWHERE NEAR THAT LEVEL OF CORROSION.

Mileage: 128,090

RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER PUNCHED THROUGH HORRIBLY RUSTED WHEEL WELL INTO PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. I DIDN'T HIT ANYTHING. IT JUST RUSTED THROUGH AND TOTALLY FAILED. VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

Mileage: 165,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE STRUT WAS ON THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND THE SHOCKS ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 85,000.

Mileage: 85,000

THE SUB-FRAME RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING BOTH FRONT WHEELS TO TOE OUT AND ALSO TO CAMBER IN AT THE TOP. THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ALSO TRIGGERED. THE STEERING NOW PULLS TO THE LEFT AND THERE IS TIRE SQUEEL EVEN ON GRADUAL RIGHT HAND TURNS. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT PROBLEM FOR THE FORD ESCAPE MODEL YEARS 2001-2004. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THIS SAME PROBLEM EXISTS FOR THIS MODEL YEAR 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I VERIFIED THAT MY VIN WAS NOT COVERED IN THE RECALL. I THEN CALLED FORD TO SEE IF THEY WOULD REMEDY THE PROBLEM AS IT WAS OBVIOUS THAT THIS WAS THE SAME PROBLEM AS IN THEIR OTHER RECALL - THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T HELP. THIS IS A LOW MILEAGE, WELL MAINTAINED VEHICLE SO IT SHOULD BE OBVIOUS THAT THE SUB-FRAME IS FAULTY.

Mileage: 83,000

FORD ESCAPE 2005 PASSENGER REAR TIRE WHEEL WELL RUSTED AWAY WHERE THE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT BOLTS ONTO FRAME AND NOW THE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT HAS NOTHING TO BOLT ONTO ANYMORE. SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT IS NOT ATTACHED TO FRAME ANYMORE AND NOW HITS THE FRAME OF THE SUV MAKE VERY LOUD KNOCKING SOUNDS.

Mileage: 108,000

DRIVING TO WORK ON AUG 3, 2015, I HEARD LOUD RATTLING AND CLANKING FROM THE REAR OF MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THINKING THAT IT WAS MY TOOLS ON THE BACK, I REMOVE THEM THE TOOLS, BUT THE RATTLING PERSISTED. I WALKED AROUND AND DID A VISUAL INSPECTION, AND SAW NOTHING WRONG WITH THE DRIVER SIDE SUSPENSION OR WHEEL WELL AREA. THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL, HOWEVER, HAD A LARGE HOLE WHERE THE SHOCK MOUNT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ATTACHED TO THE BODY. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEMATIC AREA FOR MANY OWNERS OF MY YEAR MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE AND I FIND IT INTERESTING THAT FORD WILL VERBALLY ADMIT THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE, THOUGH WILL NOT EXPLAIN IN WRITING WHY NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM AND MAKE THEIR VEHICLES SAFE TO BE DRIVEN. FORD WILL BE NOTIFIED BY WAY OF THEIR INTERNAL COMPLAINT FORMS OF THIS ISSUE.

Mileage: 168,250

RIGHT REAR SHOCK/STRUT RUSTED OFF THE VEHICLE AND IS NOT ATTACHED ANYMORE

Mileage: 186,000

WHY IS IT THAT NHTSA IS IGNORING ALL THE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE FORD ESCAPE VEHICLES FROM 2003 TO 2007 IN REGARDS TO THE RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL AND SHOCK MOUNTS THAT ARE RUSTING OUT IN WHICH THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE WHERE AS THE SHOCK COULD HIT THE INNER WHEEL OF THE RIGHT REAR TIRE? NO RECALLS FROM FORD OR NHTSA ON THIS ISSUE, BUT YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE FROM THE ATTACHED VIDEO THAT THERE IS A MAJOR CONCERN FOR SAFETY OF THESE VEHICLES ON THE RIGHT REAR SIDE. HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=9_OZK8IGK5S REPAIRS ARE COSTING THE CONSUMERS ON THESE VEHICLES NEARLY $2000.00 DOLLARS OR MORE AT THE AUTO BODY REPAIR SHOP. HOW CAN FORD DO THIS ON THESE VEHICLES AND CURRENT MODELS. I HAVE A 2011 FORD ESCAPE AND IT IS STARTING TO RUST OUT IN THE SAME PLACE. WHY?????????????????? MAKE FORD RECALL THESE VEHICLE AND PAY FOR THESE REPAIRS. INSTEAD OF THE CONSUMER HAVING TO GET RAKED OVER THE COALS FROM THE AUTO BODY SHOPS OR YOUR LOCAL FORD DEALER.

Mileage: 85,000

I WAS DRIVING ALONG THE HIGHWAY ON MY WAY TO WORK AND HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THAT I HEARD A RATTLING NOISE IN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE QUARTER PANE ON EVERY SUBSEQUENT BUMP. WHEN I WAS ABLE TO PROPERLY EXAMINE IT I REALIZED THAT THE METAL THAT CONNECTS THE SHOCK TOWER TO THE WHEEL WELL HAD ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. IN AUGUST OF 2012, WITH 154,523 MILES ON THE CAR, I REPLACED THE REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS. THERE WAS NO INDICATION AT THAT TIME OF THIS PROBLEM DEVELOPING. THE METAL ON THE VEHICLE SEEMS TO HAVE AN ISSUE BECAUSE IT IS RUSTING IN OTHER AREAS AS WELL, SUCH AS THE FUEL FILLER NECK, THE BOTTOMS OF THE REAR DOORS, THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR LIFT GATE, THE OUTER EDGES OF THE REAR WHEEL OPENINGS, AND AT THE BASE OF THE SIDE VIEW MIRROR.

Mileage: 216,131

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE WOULD SWAY SLIGHTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHOCK TOWER ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH TO THE FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.

Mileage: 108,000

WHEN DRIVING ON BUMPY ROADS I STARTED HEARING A LOUD RATTLE FROM PASSENGER REAR AREA. I COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING LOOSE IN THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE THAT WOULD MAKE THAT SOUND. I LOOKED UP INSIDE THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL AND SAW THAT THE UPPER PORTION OF WHERE THE SHOCK BOLTS TO THE BODY IS RUSTED OUT ALL THE WAY AROUND THE SHOCK CONNECTION AREA. I SEE THERE ARE MANY OTHER FORD OWNERS THAT HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. COME ON FORD, WE CAN'T ALL AFFORD TO SCRAP A VEHICLE EVERY TEN YEARS. THERE IS A DESIGN PROBLEM HERE AND FORD SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING THEIR SHORTCOMINGS.

Mileage: 114,000

OUR 2005 FORD ESCAPE IN JUST A MATTER OF WEEKS DEVELOPED A BASKETBALL-SIZED HOLE OVER THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. IT COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL, AND THE YOU CAN SEE THROUGH THE OPENING TO THE SHOCK AND THE TIRE FROM INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE SHOCK IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE FRAME, WHICH MAKES THIS VEHICLE UNSAFE FOR THE ROAD. WE WILL NOT ALLOW OUR SON TO DRIVE THIS TRUCK ANY LONGER, AND ARE NOW UNABLE TO PROVIDE HIM WITH A SAFE CAR SINCE THE REPAIRS TO THIS TRUCK ARE VERY HIGH. THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE THAT AFFECTS A LARGE NUMBER OF OTHER DRIVERS. WE ALL HAVE THE EXACT SAME COMPLAINT ON WHERE THE DAMAGE OCCURS (RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL) AND THE EXTENT OF THIS DAMAGE (THE TRUCK IS NO LONGER SAFE TO DRIVE). FORD NEEDS TO RECALL THESE VEHICLES AND FIX THIS PROBLEM. THANK YOU. *TR

Mileage: 68,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED THROUGH SO BADLY THAT THE SHOCK MOUNT IS BANGING IN THE INTERIOR PANEL AND IS ABOUT TO BREAK LOSE FROM THE FRAME. WHEN I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE A MONTH AGO IT STILL HAD THE ORIGINAL UNDERCOATING ON IT, IT WAS RUSTING FROM BEHIND THE UNDERCOAT. I NOW HAVE TO PAY MY MECHANIC TO FIX THIS SAFETY HAZARD BECAUSE FORD, KNOWING THAT THIS PROBLEM EXISTS AND IS EXTENSIVE, WILL NOT RECALL THE VEHICLE TO FIX THERE POOR DESIGN.

Mileage: 169,654

SUB-FRAME RUST PROBLEM. THERE WAS A RECALL ON 2001 TO 2004 FORD ESCAPE FOR THIS PROBLEM. FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RECALLED ESCAPE CROSSOVERS FROM MODEL YEARS 2001-2004 IN STATES THAT USE A LOT OF ROAD SALT. IN AFFECTED VEHICLES, PART OF THE CAR COULD SUFFER DAMAGE FROM RUST AND EVEN LOSE STEERING CONTROL.

Mileage: 120,000

REAR WHEEL WELLS RUSTED AWAY ALLOWING STRUTS TO MOVE. VERY UNSTABLE! AFRAID OF AN ACCIDENT

Mileage: 142,000

I HEARD A LOAD BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF MY TRUCK. AFTER STOPPING TO LOOK AT IT MY PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL AND STRUT WERE COMPLETELY CRUMBLED AND MY STRUT WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED. I KNOW MY VEHICLE IS 10 YEARS OLD, BUT THE MECHANIC I TOOK IT TO SAID HE HAS NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THAT EVER ON A CAR THAT OLD. HE HAS BEEN A MECHANIC FOR 40 YEARS. AFTER RESEARCHING A LITTLE IT SEEMS THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS WITH THE SAME ISSUE. ALL ON THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL. THESE COMPLAINTS RANGE FROM DIFFERENT STATES AND EVEN OTHER COUNTRIES. TO ME IF MANY MANY OF THE SAME VEHICLE IS HAVING THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM THEN IT SOUNDS LIKE A DEFECT IN THE PARTS. I JUST THANK GOD I WASN'T GOING AT A HIGH SPEED AND HIT A POT HOLE OR SOMETHING. SOMETHING SHOULD REALLY BE DONE ABOUT THIS.

Mileage: 152,000

I HAD MY DAUGHTER'S CAR IN THE SHOP AND NOTICED THAT THE INTERIOR OF THE WHEEL WELL ON PASSENGER SIDE REAR WAS ROTTING AWAY. THIS AFFECTS THE SUSPENSION DRAMATICALLY. IT APPEARS THAT IT WILL EVENTUALLY DETERIORATE TO THE POINT THAT WHERE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTS WILL EVENTUALLY FAIL AND COULD HAVE DISASTROUS RESULTS. THIS DEGRADATION IS VERY SIMILAR TO FORD'S RECALL #13-S-01 ON SELECT MINI VANS AND WHERE THE REAR WHEEL WELLS ARE ROTTING AWAY. IN MY MIND THIS ISSUE POSES JUST AS SERIOUS A THREAT. UPON SEEING MY DAUGHTER'S CAR I'VE HAD OCCASION TO LOOK AT SIMILAR AGE ESCAPES AND MANY HAVE THIS CONDITION ON THEM AS WELL.

Mileage: 142,017

WHILE DRIVING LAST WEEK I HEARD A "RATTLING" I HAD NOT HEARD PREVIOUSLY.I PULLED OVER AND INSPECTED MY WHEELS AND DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL ABOVE THE TOP OF THE TIRE HAD RUSTED OUT.CLOSER INSPECTION REVEALED THAT THE STRUT MOUNT HAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE STRUT HAD "SPEARED" THRU THE INTERIOR PLASTIC SIDEWALL, THUS RENDERING THE VEHICLE INOPERABLE.I SHUDDER TO THINK WHAT MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED HAD I HAD MY CHILD IN THE CAR AND WE WERE TRAVELLING ON THE HIGHWAY.UPON RESEARCHING ON YOU TUBE HOW TO REPAIR THIS PROBLEM,I WAS ASTOUNDED TO FIND OUT THAT THE MOST COMMON PROBLEM RELATED TO 2005-06 FORD ESCAPES,WAS VERY SPECIFIC IN STATING THAT THE REAR-PASSENGER WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTING AND CORRODING ON THESE PARTICULAR VEHICLES,SOMETIMES RESULTING IN THE STRUT TO BECOME DISENGAGED.THIS SOUNDS LIKE A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE,BUT FORD CUSTOMER RELATIONS TOLD ME "SORRY,BUT THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THIS AND THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY CAN DO FOR ME.AS A SINGLE DAD,MILITARY VETERAN,AND LOW-INCOME EARNER,I AM LOOKING FOR HELP FOR MYSELF AND FELLOW FORD ESCAPE OWNERS BECAUSE THIS SOUNDS LIKE SHODDY CAR CONSTRUCTION FROM THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY.PLEASE HELP ME BECAUSE I CAN'T WORK AT THE MOMENT UNTIL THIS VEHICLE IS REPAIRED,AND I CAN'T AFFORD THE REPAIR BILL UNTIL I GET BACK TO WORK,I AM DISHEARTENED AND UPSET ABOUT THIS WHOLE ORDEAL.PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS.

Mileage: 120,200

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED AND COMPLETELY ROTTED AWAY. THE SHOCK SPRING IS COMING UP THROUGH THE BACK OF THE CAR. I JUST PURCHASED THE CAR "AS IS" LAST YEAR, AND HAD IT LOOKED AT BY MY MECHANIC. NO ONE CAUGHT THE CONDITION OF THE CAR, AND THEN THIS YEAR IN APRIL I HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE IN THE BACK OF MY CAR. I WENT AND HAD IT LOOKED AT AND THE MECHANIC SAID THE WHOLE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED AND ROTTED OUT. THE CONDITION IS SO BAD THAT MY MECHANIC COULDN'T EVEN FIND A WAY TO WELD A PLATE IN THERE. I STILL OWE ON THIS VEHICLE, AND IT WILL COST UPWARDS OF $2000.00 TO FIX!

WHILE DRIVING MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HYBRID I HEARD A DRAGGING SOUND IN THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE. I STOPPED THE VEHICLE TO DISCOVER A PIECE OF THE INNER WHEELHOUSE SUSPENSION MOUNT HAD SEPARATED AND WAS RUBBING ON THE RIGHT REAR TIRE. THIS IS A CORROSION PROBLEM THAT HAS BEEN REPORTED MANY TIMES TO NHTSA AND NO ENFORCEMENT ACTION TO DATE HAS BEEN MADE TO HAVE FORD RECALL THESE UNSAFE VEHICLES FOR CORRECTIVE ACTION. I GUESS SOMEONE WILL HAVE TO DIE WHEN THE RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION SEPARATES FROM THE VEHICLE BEFORE NHTSA DECIDES TO ACT.

Mileage: 111,760

RUSTED OUT SHOCK TOWER. PASSENGER REAR PANEL ALL RUSTED OUT AND LARGE HOLE. TOOK IT TO DEALER WHO SAID IT IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND WOULD HAVE TO GO TO A BODY SHOP. AS I LOOKED ONLINE, I HAVE FOUND THAT THIS HAS BEEN A HUGE PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR AND AM SURPRISED THAT THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL. CONTACTED FORD WHO SAID THEY CAN DO NOTHING FOR ME.

Mileage: 58,850

NOTED AT A LOCAL CAR REPAIR SHOP THAT MY PASSENGER REAR INNER FENDER IS RUSTED SO BAD THAT THE METAL WHERE THE SHOCK IS ATTACHED TO IS COMING AWAY. WHILE DRIVING ON BUMPS, AM NOW HEARING LOUD CLUNKING SOUND AND NO LONGER DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR FEAR OF THE SHOCK FALLING OFF. CAR SHOP STATED THAT THEY'VE SEEN 12 ESCAPES COME THROUGH THEIR PLACE WITH THE SAME ISSUE ON THE SAME SIDE THAT WERE 8-10 YEARS OLD.

Mileage: 170,000

I STARTED HEARING A RATTLING NOISE IN THE REAR PASSENGER AREA A FEW DAYS AGO. INITIALLY I THOUGHT THAT THE JACK HAD COME LOOSE IN ITS COMPARTMENT. UPON INSPECTION I FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH AND THE SHOCK DETACHED FROM THE FRAME. THE SHOCK WAS COMING THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL AND HITTING THE INTERIOR OF MY VEHICLE. I AM HEADED TO THE DEALER TODAY TO SEE WHAT REPAIRS WILL COST. AFTER GETTING ON THIS SITE AND SEEING ALL OF THE COMPLAINTS FOR THE EXACT SAME ISSUE IT IS APPARENT THAT FORD SHOULD BE FORCED TO RECALL THIS DEFECT. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD IF THIS IS NOT RECALLED.

Mileage: 135,000

INSIDE THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WHERE THE STRUT/SHOCK MOUNTS HAS TOTALLY RUSTED AWAY

Mileage: 137,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. AFTER DRIVING OVER A BUMP, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR SHOCK TOWERS WERE RUSTED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FUEL ODOR EMITTED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000.

Mileage: 74,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL (HIDDEN AREA ONLY) RUSTED OUT AT THE SHOCK MOUNT CAUSING THE SHOCK TO PUNCH INTO THE INTERIOR. EXPENSIVE REPAIR. SAD PART IS THAT THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS IN VERY GOOD SHAPE, NEVER SUSPECTED SUCH A RUSTING ISSUE LIKE THAT. I SEE IT IS A COMMON FLAW OF THIS VEHICLE. POOR ENGINEERING OF A CRITICAL MOUNTING POINT. FORTUNATELY NO INJURIES IN THIS CASE, BUT COULD EASILY HAVE CAUSED PANIC RESULTING IN AN SERIOUS ACCIDENT. VERY SURPRISED THIS IS NOT A FORD RECALL ITEM WITH AN AVAILABLE MANUFACTURED REINFORCING PART.

Mileage: 125,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL IS SO RUSTED OUT THAT THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS COMPLETELY DETACHED FROM THE BODY. DEFINITE SAFETY ISSUE. 2005 FORD ESCAPE XLT.

Mileage: 150,000

THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE RUSTED RIGHT THROUGH AND FELL OFF WHICH CUT MY BREAKLINE WHICH COULD'VE LED TO A FATAL ACCIDENT. I ALSO HAVE A CHILD, THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE RECALLED. THE SYSTEM CHECK AND ABS LIGHT NEVER CAME ON EITHER.

Mileage: 143,636

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE SUSPENSION FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION RUSTED AND THAT THERE WAS A POSSIBILITY OF THE SUSPENSION SEPARATING FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,000.

Mileage: 137,000

WHILE DRIVING HEARD A LOUD KNOTTING IN THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE, GOING OVER MINOR BUMPS. LOOKED UNDER THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL FOUND TOP OF SHOCK RUSTING LOOSE FROM WHERE IT WAS ATTACHED. IF THIS BREAKS LOOSE COMPLETELY IT COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO BOUNCE AND SWEVE RADICALLY CAUSING DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL.

Mileage: 81,297

PASSENGER SIDE REAR FENDER COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING TOTAL DETACHMENT OF SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT TOWER ORIGINALLY PART OF BODY/FRAME.

Mileage: 89,000

MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL CRACKED. THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS HARDLY ATTACHED AND IS A SAFETY ISSUE. IF IT FALLS OFF IT COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.

Mileage: 117,000

HAVE HEARD THIS NOISE LIKE A WINDOW OR DOOR RATTLING FOR AWHILE AND COULDN'T FIND THE PROBLEM. FINALLY LOOKED AT IT REALLY GOOD ONE DAY AND FOUND THE RIGHT WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND JUST SITTING THERE. UNSAFE TO DRIVE SO WE TOOK IT HOME AND PARKED IT. THIS CAR WAS BOUGHT FOR MY GRANDAUGHTER AND HER BABY TO BE A SAFE CAR FOR HER AND NOW WE HAVE TO PARK IT AND FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO BECAUSE WE STILL OWE ON THIS VEHICLE AND CAN'T AFFORD TO PAY IT OFF OR GET ANOTHER ONE RIGHT NOW

HEARD A THUDDING FROM REAR END. LOOKED UNDERNEATH AS NOTHING LOOSE IN THE VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS VERY RUSTED. NO SUPPORT FOR SHOCKS. THERE WAS AN UNDERCOATING WITH DEBRIS UNDER IT. TOOK OUT A LOT OF SLUDGE/RUST/DEBRIS FROM UNDER THAT COATING. BODY SHOP SAYS $5000 TO FIX IT PROPERLY, AND THE OTHER SIDE IS STARTING TO RUST AS WELL (DRIVER REAR WHEEL WELL).

Mileage: 130,000

HEARD LOUD NOISE FROM REAR OF VEHICLE ESPECIALLY AT LOW SPEEDS. REMOVED INSIDE PANEL TO FIND THAT REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING SHOCK MOUNT TO TEAR THROUGH FRAME AND WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO FRAME. CONSULTED WITH FORD, NO RECALL FOR THIS MODEL YEAR,,,BUT FOR PREVIOUS YEAR AND FOLLOWING YEAR?!! TOOK VEHICLE TO BODY SHOP FOR REPAIRS. VEHICLE FOR KIDS AND DEEMED UNSAFE OR DANGEROUS FOR THEM. FORD...I BUY A LOT OF VEHICLES FROM YOU...YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RIGHT FOR US!

Mileage: 62,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT MANEUVERED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND OBSERVED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE UNDERCARRIAGE WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 211,000.

Mileage: 211,000

RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER IS RUSTED ALL THE WAY THROUGH,WHILE THE LEFT SIDE LOOKS BRAND NEW.A MECHANIC SAID HE HAS FIXED AT LEAST 20 OF THESE.THE PRICE FOR THE FIX QUOTED TO ME WAS BETWEEN $800.00 AND $1000.00.THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL.WE THE ESCAPE BUT THIS JUST IS NOT FAIR. *TR

Mileage: 190,000

PURCHASED JUNE 2005 AS A USED VEHICLE W/ 18,000 MILES. ALWAYS GARAGE KEPT. NOTICED A POPPING NOISE FROM THE PASSAGE REAR. INVESTIGATED AND FOUND THE INNER WHEEL WELL. AREA WERE THE SHOCK BOLT'S TO HAS ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. READ OF OTHER PEOPLE HAVING SAME ISSUES ON THE INTERNET. CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE UNTIL REPAIRED. WILL CONSULT A BODY SHOP ON REPAIRS. FORD NEEDS TO MAN UP AND OFFER A FIX FOR THIS ISSUE! *TR

Mileage: 118,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE A RATTLING NOISE FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WHEEL WELL RUSTED AND CAUSED THE SHOCKS TO BECOME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Mileage: 110,000

I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED OUT TO THE POINT THAT WHERE THE SHOCK IS MOUNTED HAS BROKEN FREE OF THE INNER FENDER WELL CAUSING HANDLING PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I REALLY THINK AN AREA OF THIS GREAT IMPORTANCE SHOULD NOT EVER RUST OUT LET ALONE IN JUST 10 YEARS. I FEEL THIS IS AN ENGINEERING PROBLEM ON FORD MOTOR COMPANIES PART. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM ON THIS MODEL. WERE DO I GO NEXT AND I CAN SEE THIS BEING A COSTLY REPAIR AS WELL. HELP!!! *TR

Mileage: 127,000

WHILE DRIVING INTO WORK MY WIFE HEARD A LOUD BANG FROM THE REAR END. ONCE I INSPECTED IT, THE WHOLE PASSENGER REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED COMPLETELY OFF, SENDING THE TOP OF THE SHOCK THROUGH THE FENDER INSIDE COVER. INSPECTING THE DRIVERS SIDE, IT'S RUSTED ALL THE WAY AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT, ONLY BEING HELD ON BY THE BOTTOM WELD. IT SEEMS LIKE THERE'S A REAL THICK MEMBRANE SMEARED UNDER FENDER WELL. OTHERWISE, THE VEHICLE IS IN REAL GOOD SHAPE. I CAN'T BELIEVE THE POOR ENGINEERING THAT WENT INTO THIS VEHICLE. OH YEAH, WE JUST PAID IT OFF IN MARCH THROUGH FORD MOTOR CREDIT. IT'LL COST MORE TO FIX THE PROBLEM THEN WHAT I COULD GET OUT OF IT. I CAN'T BELIEVE HOW A FORD DEALER COULD POSSIBLY NOT SEE THIS BEFORE IT WAS SOLD TO US. *TR

Mileage: 132,000

ONE DAY I NOTICED THAT SOME OF THE UNDERCOATING IN THE REAR RIGHT WHEN WAS GONE, UPON FURTHER INSPECTION I NOTICED THAT THERE WAS HOLE IN THE WHEEL WELL. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE, I LEARNED THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH MY PROBLEM IS NOT AS SERIOUS AS SOME OF THE STORIES I READ, I STILL FEEL THAT IT IS SAFETY ISSUE AND AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. AS TIME GOES BY THE RUST WILL CONTINUE TO GROW AND I'M AFRAID OF THE CONSEQUENCES. I CALLED FORD TO VOICE MY CONCERN, BUT THEY SAID THAT THEY ARE NOT DOING ANYTHING TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM. JUST LIKE EVERYONE, I WANT PEOPLE TO BE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND HOPEFULLY FORD WILL REALIZED THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Mileage: 130,000

WE STARTED TO NOTICE A "CLUNKY" NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL HUB. UPON INSPECTION, THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL HUB IS OVER 50% RUSTED OUT. THE LEFT REAR WHEEL HUB IS INTACT. WE CAN NOT DRIVE VEHICLE FEARING A STRUCTURAL FAILURE WILL RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT OR INJURY. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE ON THE INTERNET, IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THIS MODEL, AND OTHER FORD MODELS. *TR

Mileage: 135,000

I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE TOOK IT TO A SHOP TODAY BECAUSE OF THE BANGING FROM THE SUSPENSION. WHEN THE MECHANIC PUT THE CAR ON THE LIFT HE SAW THAT THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL AROUND THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS RUSTED COMPLETELY OUT. THE EXTRA STRESS ON THE SHOCK ABSORBER CAUSED THE BOLT ON THE TOP TO BREAK OFF. THE STRESS ALSO CAUSED THE REAR BREAK LINE TO FRAY ALMOST TO THE POINT OF BREAKING COMPLETELY. THIS CAR IS NO LONGER SAFE TO DRIVE. I AM JUST HAPPY THAT MY BREAK LINE DIDN'T BREAK WHILE I WAS ON THE ROAD. I DO NOT REALLY KNOW WHAT OPTIONS I HAVE WITH THE CAR SINCE IT IS THE ONLY CAR I OWN AND I HAVE NO OTHER WAY TO GET TO AND FROM WORK. *TR

Mileage: 116,543

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE TRAVELING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, A LOUD NOISE EMITTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE INNER REAR FENDER AND THE REAR SHOCKS DETERIORATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE RUSTED AND COULD FRACTURE AT ANY MOMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.

Mileage: 135,000

I HAD BEEN HEARING A LARGE CLUNK ON MY PASSENGER SIDE IN THE BACK. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT WAS MY SHOVEL HITTING. HOWEVER, I FINALLY REALLY TOOK A LOOK AT THE ENTIRE BACK AND WHEEL AND NOTICE IT COMPLETELY ROTTED UNDER AND EVEN BROKE THROUGH MY TRUNK. I TOOK IT TO 3 DIFFERENT SHOPS AND WAS TOLD IT WAS THE SUSPENSION/SHOCK THAT HAS RUSTED AND ROTTED AWAY. IT WASN'T SUPPOSE TO DO THAT. I HAVE A WELDER PRICING IT OUT BECAUSE BOTH OTHER GARAGES SAID THEY COULDN'T FIX. I FEEL COMPLETELY UNSAFE DRIVING THINKING THE CAR COULD GO FLAT OUT ANYTIME. THE CAR IS IN REALLY GOOD CONDITION OTHERWISE, AND FROM THE SOUND OF IT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM AMONG 2004 AND 2005 ESCAPES. IF THIS KEEPS HAPPENING SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET HURT. AND IT SHOULD BE FORDS RESPONSIBILITY TO FIX. *TR

Mileage: 148,100

I WAS DRIVING AND BEGAN TO HEAR A LOUD NOISE I STOPPED AND LOOKED, THE FENDER WELL HAD FALLEN HALF WAY OFF. IT WAS RUSTED ALL THE WAY THROUGH. I HAD TO CALL A TOW TRUCK AND STILL CANNOT USE MY CAR BECAUSE I CANT AFFORD TO REPLACE THIS PART. SHOULDN'T FORD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS IT IS A FLAW IN THE BODY. *TR

Mileage: 78,000

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD GOING APPROX. 40 MPH, I HEARD A LOUD NOISE FROM BY BACK PASSENGER SIDE TIRED. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER TO SEE WHAT CAUSED THE NOISE. UPON INSPECTION, I NOTICED THE WHEEL WELL THAT SUPPORTS THE BACK SHOCK WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE SHOCK HAD BROKE THROUGH THE RUSTED WHEEL WELL AND WAS PRESSED UP AGAINST THE INSIDE INTERIOR OF MY CAR. THE REST OF MY WHEEL WELLS ARE IN FINE CONDITION. WHEN I RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM ONLINE, THERE ARE MANY, MANY CUSTOMERS THAT HAVE HAD THIS EXACT PROBLEM WITH 2005 FORD ESCAPES. IT IS ONLY THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THIS NEEDS TO BE RESEARCHED AND CORRECTED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT. *TR

Mileage: 180,000

I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM SCHOOL WHEN I STARTED TO HEAR A LOUD CLUNCKING NOISE FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. I CAME TO FIND OUT THAT IT WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THAT'S WHAT WAS MAKING ALL OF THAT NOISE. I HAVE ONLY HAD THIS CAR FOR 6 MONTHS AND I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I AM GOING TO DO IF THIS IS A PROBLEM NO ONE CAN FIX! I'VE BEEN READING AND A LOT OF PEOPLE WITH THE 2003-2007 ESCAPES ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE! THIS NEEDS TO BE FIXED!! *TR

Mileage: 100,400

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH OVER A POTHOLE, AN ABNORMAL NOISE EMITTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK WAS FRACTURED AND RUSTED. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,400.

Mileage: 100,400

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK MOUNT IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. WHEN I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE USED, I DROVE IT AND HEARD A SLIGHT CLUNKING SOMEWHERE IN THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. I THOUGHT MAYBE THE SHOCKS WERE BAD. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE IT, HOPING TO REPLACE THE SHOCKS. RECENTLY THE NOISE BECAME VERY LOUD AND DISTURBING. I LOOKED AT THE SHOCK AREA AND DISCOVERED THE WHOLE AREA ON THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK MOUNT ARE RUSTED THROUGH AND BREAKING APART. THE LEFT SIDE IS FINE. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT THIS WAY AND BELIEVE IT IS AN UNSAFE CONDITION. I LOOKED UP THE PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND A MULTITUDE OF THE SAME PROBLEM WITH OTHER OWNERS OF 2005 FORD ESCAPES. TO MY KNOWLEDGE, FORD WILL ONLY FIX 2001-2004 ESCAPES, BUT NOT 2005. WHY NOT? IT CLEARLY IS A DEFECT IN MATERIAL AND WORKMANSHIP. IT HAS RUSTED PREMATURELY AND CAUSES A HAZARDOUS SAFETY SITUATION. IF THIS WAS AN ISOLATED INCIDENT, I WOULD UNDERSTAND. BUT FROM WHAT I HAVE LEARNED, IT HAS HAPPENED TO ALL 2005 FORD ESCAPES. *TR

Mileage: 136,585

HAVE FOUND THE RIGHT REAR STRUT MOUNT ALMOST RUSTED AWAY AND THE LEFT SIDE IS ON ITS WAY. I HEAR THERE IS A RECALL FOR 2001-2004 FOR THIS AND FROM ALL THE COMPLAINTS I SEE ON-LINE THIS SHOULD INCLUDE 2005-2006 AND UNLESS THEY DID SOMETHING TO ACTUALLY STOP THIS, EVEN LATER YEARS SHOULD BE INCLUDED. IF A PERSON HITS A CHUCK HOLE THIS COULD CAUSE A BAD ACCIDENT., I SEE A LOT OF PEOPLE CAN'T EVEN DRIVE THEIR VEHICLES. I HAVE OWNED MANY OLDER,VEHICLES INCLUDING A 1995 FORD TAURUS I TRADED IN ON THIS ESCAPE THAT DIDN'T HAVE THIS PROBLEM. *TR

Mileage: 148,933

THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT WHERE THE SHOCK ATTACHES. THE SHOCK ASSEMBLY IS NOW JUST LOOSE AND RATTLING. LOOKING ONLINE, MANY MANY PEOPLE ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME FAILURE ON 2004, 2005, AND 2006 ESCAPES. THIS MAKES THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 150,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, A LOUD NOISE EMITTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SHOCKS WERE CORRODED THROUGH TO THE WHEEL WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.

Mileage: 135,000

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, WE HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD AND ALMOST IMMEDIATELY THERE WAS A LOUD BANGING NOISE. UPON INSPECTION, I FOUND THAT THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THE SHOCK STRUT IS NOW LOOSE AND BANGING AGAINST THE CAR'S FRAME, THE TIRE AND THE INTERIOR OF THE REAR CARGO AREA. I'VE BEEN RESEARCHING THIS ONLINE AND NOTICE THAT THIS IS A RATHER COMMON PROBLEM WITH OTHER FORD ESCAPES IN THE MIDWEST. IT IS ALWAYS THE SAME COMPLAINT, RUSTED OUT WHEEL WELL ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. SOMEONE NEED TO INVESTIGATE FORD BECAUSE THIS IS TOO COMMON AN ISSUE AND IS CLEARLY A DESIGN FLAW. REPAIR FOR THIS ISSUE CAN RUN UP TO $2,000. *TR

Mileage: 75,000

DRIVING DOWN STREET AND RAN OVER ROUGH SPOT IN PAVEMENT AND HEARD A THUMP FROM THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. NEXT DAY DROVE OVER RAILROAD TRACKS AND THERE WAS A LOUD BANGING NOISE. I CHECKED UNDER VEHICLE AT RIGHT REAR WHEEL OPENING (PASSENGER SIDE) TO FIND MOST OF THE WHEEL WELL RUSTED AND GONE FROM THE SHOCK MOUNT LOCATION TO THE REAR MOST PART OF THE WHEEL WELL. THE BUCKET OR BRACKET THAT MOUNTS THE TOP OF THE SHOCK ABSORBER TO THE WHEEL WELL AND CHASSIS IS JUST FLOATING IN MID AIR. WHEN I LOOK THROUGH THE SIDE COMPARTMENT IN THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE I CAN SEE THE TOP OF THE TIRE AND THE PAVEMENT AND SHOCK ABSORBER. *TR

Mileage: 167,344

WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, WHENEVER WE WOULD HIT A BUMP OF ANY KIND THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR OF THE CAR MADE A HORRIBLE RATTLING/BANGING NOISE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY TOLD AND SHOWED ME WHERE THE PART THAT CONNECTED THE SHOCK TO THE WHEEL WELL HAD PRETTY MUCH RUSTED AWAY AND WAS NO LONGER SAFE TO DRIVE. THE SERVICE WRITERS AND THE BODY MAN ALL SAID THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS YEAR AND MODEL. THEY CONJECTURED THAT SINCE WE GET SNOW IN PITTSBURGH THE ROADS ARE SALTED. SINCE THE ROADS ARE SLANTED TO THE RIGHT TO HELP DRAINAGE, THAT SIDE IS BATHED IN SALT WATER. HOWEVER I AM ALSO DEVELOPING RUST ON THE OUTSIDE EDGE OF THE BODY PANEL ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE. WHY THEN IS THIS NOT HAPPENING TO OTHER MODEL YEARS? SINCE IT IS NOT DRIVABLE I HAVE HAD TO SCHEDULE THE REPAIRS. AT THE TIME OF THE REPAIRS I AM GOING TO HAVE THE CAR COMPLETELY GONE OVER BY THE DEALERS MECHANICS AND BODY MAN TO VALIDATE THE CONDITION AND DOCUMENT ANY FURTHER REQUIRED REPAIRS. THIS IS A TOTAL ENGINEERING SCREWUP BY FORD AND THEY SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO RECALL ALL OF THIS MODEL AND YEAR AND EITHER REPAIR THEM AT NO COST TO THE OWNER OR REIMBURSE THE OWNERS WHO ALREADY HAD TO HAVE THE REPAIRS DONE. DO PEOPLE HAVE TO DIE BEFORE ACTION IS TAKEN? IS NO ONE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS IN TODAY'S SOCIETY? *TR

Mileage: 135,000

THE REAR RIGHT UPPER SHOCK MOUNT FELT OFF SO THERE IS NO WHERE WE CAN PUT THE SHOCK. THEREFORE, IT HAS A BIG HOLE ON THE FENDER WELL THAT YOU CAN SEE THE INSIDE THIS IS SOMETHING THAT SHOULD NOT HAD HAPPEN PLUS ON THE LEFT SIDE YOU CAN SEE RUST CRACKS IN THE FENDER WELL AND CONTINUES TO THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT. I THINK THIS IS SOMETHING THAT THE COMPANY HAS TO ADDRESS AND FIXED IT BECAUSE IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Mileage: 127,000

THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK PLUNGED THROUGH THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL (RUSTED AWAY) AND RATTLES AT LOW SPEEDS. STEERING PULLS TO LEFT AND SHAKES.

Mileage: 112,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS CORRODED AND DETERIORATED. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE SHOCK MOUNT FRACTURED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE CAUSED THE SHOCK MOUNT TO PUNCTURE THE TRUNK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE EACH TIME THE VEHICLE DROVE OVER A BUMP DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN PERFORMED AN ALIGNMENT AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.

Mileage: 113,000

HAD REAR SHOCKS REPLACED ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND WAS TOLD THAT MOUNTS FOR THE SHOCKS ARE RUSTED OUT. THE SHOCKS ARE DETACHED FROM THE FRAME DUE TO POOR DESIGN BY FORD. THE CAR IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AS THE SHOCK BOUNCES INTO THE REAR INTERIOR WHEN MOVING. THERE IS A RECALL FROM 2001 - 2004 ESCAPES BUT NOT 2005! FOR THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM! *TR

Mileage: 75,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED THROUGH COMPROMISING THE CONNECTION TO THE STRUT. *TR

Mileage: 105,000

DRIVING LESS THAN 30MPH-HIT A MANHOLE COVER AND HEARD VERY LOUD BANG IN BACK OF CAR. DISCOVERED INSIDE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY DISINTEGRATED. SHOCK BARELY HOLDING ON. STILL WAITING ON ESTIMATE TO FIX. BASED ON THE OTHER OVER 100 COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME NATURE, NOT GOING TO BOTHER CALLING FORD. *TR

Mileage: 111,120

I WAS TRAVELING AT 60 MPH ON A HIGHWAY INTERCHANGE. I HYDROPLANED, LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE, AND HIT A GUARD RAIL WITH THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE HEAD ON. MY VEHICLE BOUNCED OFF THE GUARD RAIL, TRAVELED BACKWARDS, AND HIT THE GUARDRAIL ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR. THE CAR SPUN 90 DEGREES AND CAME TO A REST WITH THE PASSENGER SIDE AGAINST THE GUARD RAIL, OPPOSING HIGHWAY TRAFFIC FLOW. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, DESPITE A 60-MPH COLLISION. THE SUSPENSION, WHEEL, AND SHOCK FELL OFF IN THE COLLISION. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK PUNCTURED THROUGH A COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT REAR WHEEL WELL ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CAR IS UNDRIVABLE AND THE AUTO REPAIR/BODY SHOP QUOTED ME $3,000.00 TO REPAIR THIS. I CONTACTED FORD AND THEY STATED THAT ONLY THE 2001-2004 MODELS ARE COVERED UNDER A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND HAVE READ HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. . *TR

Mileage: 114,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SHOCK FRACTURED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT RUST RELATED BUT RATHER THAT THERE WAS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT WITH THE DRIVE TRAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 14V165000 (STRUCTURE). THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

RIGHT REAR WHEEL RUSTED APART AND SHOCK ABSORBER IS NOT ATTACHED ANY LONGER. THE CAR IS NOT DRIVABLE TO SAFETY CONCERN. *TR

Mileage: 156,000

WE NOTICED A NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK RIGHT REAR SIDE OF OUR FORD ESCAPE ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU WOULD GO OVER SMALL BUMPS IN THE ROAD. A QUICK LOOK UNDERNEATH, WE NOTICED A LOT OF RUST. WE CALLED THE FORD DEALERSHIP TO GET IT IN TO BE CHECKED OUT AND UPON US DESCRIBING THE PROBLEM, THEY SAID IT IS MOST LIKELY THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT. A COUPLE OF DAYS LATER, WE RECEIVED A CALL AND FOUND OUT THAT IS THE PROBLEM ALONG WITH AN ESTIMATE TO REPAIR IT (15 HOURS AND $1,200.00 APPROX.). THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM THAT THEY SEE IN ESCAPES FROM YEARS 2005-07. WE REACHED OUT TO FORD BECAUSE THIS IS NOT ONLY A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE BUT THE VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS OUR STATE INSPECTION. WE WERE TOLD THAT THERE IS NO RECALL AT THIS TIME NOR WOULD THEY HELP ASSIST WITH ANY OF THE REPAIRS, AT THIS TIME. THEY TOLD US TO HOLD ON TO OUR RECEIPT AND IF THERE IS A RECALL, THAT THEY WOULD REIMBURSE US. VERY DISAPPOINTED. *TR

Mileage: 107,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, THE SHOCK ABSORBER DETACHED AND FRACTURED THROUGH THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE TRUNK. THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT CAUSING THE CONTACT TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.

Mileage: 160,000

THE VEHICLE'S REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT COMPLETELY. THIS ALLOWED THE REAR SHOCK TO BECOME DANGEROUSLY LOOSE AND PRODUCED A LOUD BANGING NOISE. HAD THE SHOCK COME LOOSE THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A SUBSTANTIAL LOSS OF STEERING. CAR IS NOW UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 174,033

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED OUT. THE STRUT IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE VEHICLE. WHEN DRIVING THERE IS A KNOCKING SOUND. WHEN INVESTIGATED AT THE REPAIR SHOP, THIS WAS THE DIAGNOSIS. *TR

Mileage: 160,500

BACK RIGHT PASSENGER WHEEL WELL RUSTED THROUGH. SHOCK IS HOLDING ON BY A THREAD. MAKES LOUD BANGING NOISE WHEN ANY BUMP IS HIT. I WAS TOLD VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE BY LOCAL MECHANIC. *TR

Mileage: 120,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR SHOCK TOWER COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE.THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS SPOTLESS AND WE KEEP IT VERY CLEAN.THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. *TR

Mileage: 75,000

RATTLING, BANGING, RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT IS RUSTED LOOSE, COMPLETELY CORRODED AWAY FROM WHEEL HOUSE. *JS

Mileage: 93,000

WE NOTICED A RATTLING/BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR OF VEHICLE, MY WIFE RODE IN THE REAR SEAT AND COULD FEEL THE SHOCK MOUNT HITTING AGAINST THE BACK OF THE INTERIOR TRIM PANEL. LOOKING INTO THE WHEEL WELL, WE COULD SEE WHERE THE WHEEL HOUSING HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT, REVEALING THE INTERIOR. THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT CAN BE WIGGLED BY HAND. TODAY 12/31/2014, I WENT TO SEE MY "FRIENDS" AT OUR LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP, THE SERVICE WRITER SAID I WAS IN "LUCK" AS HE REMEMBERED RESEARCHING THE SAME ISSUE FOR ANOTHER CUSTOMER. HE FOUND A DIAGRAM WITH THE REPLACEMENT PANEL & WHEEL HOUSE, PART# 7L82-7827886-A, WITH A LIST PRICE OF $150, THEN WE WENT TO TALK TO ANOTHER "FRIEND" IN PARTS, HE SAID THAT THE PRICE HAD RECENTLY INCREASED AND NOW LISTED AT $700. THEY OFFERED TO HAVE ME TALK TO ANOTHER "FRIEND" IN SALES, BUT I INFORMED THEM MY WIFE REFUSED TO BUY ANOTHER FORD, AND IF WE WERE TO BUY A NEW VEHICLE IT WOULD BE A TOYOTA. WITH THAT SAID, MY "FRIENDS" SUGGESTED TO UNLOAD (TRADE) IT AT A TOYOTA DEALER. THEY ALSO INFORMED ME OUR 2005 FORD ESCAPE WAS "UNSAFE" TO DRIVE. I WENT TO OUR LOCAL BODY SHOP TO GET HIS RECOMMENDATION. HE SAID, THEY HAD JUST DONE ONE, IN 10/2014 FOR JUST UNDER $900 AND HE GOT THE PART FROM MY "FRIENDS" AT THE DEALERSHIP FOR $120. IN APPARENT DISBELIEF HE CALLED OUR "FRIENDS" AND THEY CONFIRMED THE PRICE INCREASE. WE SEARCHED ONLINE AND FOUND MANY 7L82-7827886-A FOR $20-$180, AFTER ORDERING FROM SEVERAL DIFFERENT VENDORS, EACH VENDOR CANCELLED THE ORDERS FOR VARIOUS REASONS; UNAVAILABLE, PART NUMBER CHANGE AND IS MORE EXPENSIVE, DUE TO THE SIZE AND FRAGILE NATURE WE ARE UNABLE TO SHIP, NOT AVAILABLE,ETC. WHAT IS FORD'S OBJECTIVE WITH THIS PRICE INCREASE ? ? ? THERE WAS CLEARLY A DEFECT IN MANUFACTURING, CRAFTSMANSHIP, AND/OR MATERIALS, THAT CREATED THIS SEVERE DEFECT IN SAFETY OF THE 2005 FORD ESCAPE ! ! ! *JS

Mileage: 94,000

I HAD MY CAR INSPECTED TODAY AND HAD THEM LOOK AT AN ISSUE OF A BANGING SOUND I WAS HEARING IN THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE AREA. THE MECHANIC FOUND EXTENSIVE RUST AND ROT IN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL AND THE STRUT WAS ALMOST READY TO COME OFF. THE MECHANIC COMMENTED HE HAS SEEN THIS ISSUE SEVERAL TIMES WITH THIS MODEL. I SEE THAT FORD RECALLED 2001 TO 2005 MODEL YEARS, BUT NOT THE 2005. FROM DOING RESEARCH THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS FROM 2005 OWNERS. I KEEP MY CAR WASHED AND ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO WASH SALT OFF IN THE WINTER. MY MECHANIC RECOMMENDED THAT I NOT DRIVE THE CAR BECAUSE IT WAS UNSAFE BECAUSE THE STRUT WAS READY TO COME OFF AND COULD CAUSE THE TIRE TO BEND OUTWARD. HOW CAN FORD NOT RECALL THIS YEAR WITH ALL THE OBVIOUS COMPLAINTS CONCERNING THIS ISSUE? MY DAUGHTER DRIVES THIS CAR AND IMAGINE HER GOING 65 ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE TIRE BENDS! AN INVESTIGATION NEEDS TO BE CONDUCTED FOR THIS MODEL YEAR SINCE THIS HAS BEEN ONGOING ISSUES WITH RUST AND ROT IN THE WHEEL WELLS WITH PREVIOUS MODEL YEARS. THE ISSUE WAS NEVER CORRECTED A,NO CONTINUED PAST MODEL YEAR 2004. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

BEAUTIFUL, WELL-MAINTAINED 05 FORD ESCAPE - RARE 5 SPEED MANUAL, 4 CYL, AWD. ALWAYS GARAGED AND CLEANED. OPENED PLASTIC BIN IN REAR COMPARTMENT, PASSENGER SIDE, TO STORE TOOLS. NOTICED SMALL CRACKS AND DAYLIGHT IN WHEEL WELL. JUST BELOW AND BEHIND SHOCK MOUNT. APPLIED LIGHT PRESSURE. ENTIRE SECTION PUSHED THROUGH. COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. HELD IN PLACE ONLY BY RUBBERIZED UNDERCOATING. 119K. BASED ON ALL THESE COMPLAINTS, SAME LOCATION, SAME EVENT, I CONSIDER MYSELF LUCKY IT DIDN'T FAIL WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I'M GOING TO SHOW THE DEALER TOMORROW. CURIOUS WHAT HIS REACTION WILL BE. MY GUESS IS SYMPATHY BUT NOTHING TO DO ABOUT IT WITHOUT FORD SUPPORTING THE DEALER. *TR

Mileage: 119,000

MY PROBLEM IS THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK MOUNT BROKEN OFF AND HAS BEEN PUSHED UP INTO THE REAR HATCH WHEEL WELL INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 102,000

I'VE RECENTLY STARTED NOTICING A LOT OF CREAKING AND POPPING IN THE STRUCTURE / SUSPENSION OF MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I TOOK A FLASHLIGHT AND CRAWLED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE TO INSPECT, AND IMMEDIATELY NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF RUST/ROT IN MY FRONT SUBFRAME OF MY VEHICLE. I SEE FORD HAS A RECALL FOR 2001 TO 2004 MODELS, BUT THIS NEEDS TO BE EXPANDED TO COVER ALL YEARS OF THIS CHASSIS DESIGN, AS MY 2005 SHOWS SIGNIFICANT ROT. THE RECALL SHOULD ALSO COVER REAR WHEEL WELL RUST/ROT (INCLUDING SHOCK MOUNTS), AS THIS AREA IS ALSO HEAVILY RUSTED. DEFINITE DESIGN FLAWS AND POOR QUALITY OF MATERIALS USED ON THE FRAME/SUBFRAME. A 2005 SHOULD NOT BE RUSTING OUT THIS BAD, EVEN IN THE "SALT BELT". NOTHING HAS BROKEN FROM RUST YET, HOWEVER JUDGING BY THE RATE OF DECAY, IT'S NOT GOING TO LAST MUCH LONGER. FORD SHOULD EXPAND THIS RECALL IMMEDIATELY. *TR

Mileage: 139,000

WHILE DRIVING A LOUD THUD WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, WHILE DRIVING A CONTINUED BANGING WAS HEARD, UPON INSPECTION WE NOTICED THE INNER WHEELHOUSING OR INNER FENDER HAD A LARGE DIAMETER HOLE WHERE THE SHOCK MOUNTED TO IT, THE HOLE IS LARGE ROUGHLY 10 INCHES ACROSS AND UPON SEARCHING I HAVE NOTICED THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AND ROAD SALT COMBINED TO CAUSE THIS, NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ONLINE BUT NO ACTION FROM ANYONE ON THIS ISSUE, IT SEEMS A POSSIBLE LOSS OF CONTROL WHILE LOADED COULD RESULT IN A CRASH. *TR

Mileage: 87,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE REAR SHOCK MOUNTS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE FRAME WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED ON BOTH SIDES. THE CONTACT WAS A CERTIFIED MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR FRAME RAIL AND THE FUEL FILLER NECK WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.

Mileage: 160,000

MY VEHICLE HAS SEVERE CORROSION IN THE DRIVER SIDE REAR WHEEL HOUSE. THE CORROSION HAS ALLOWED THE LEFT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER TO FAIL TO EFFECTIVELY DAMPEN THE SUSPENSION MOVEMENT (ITS PURPOSE). THE PROBLEM IS VERY PREVALENT ON FORD ESCAPES, MERCURY MARINERS, AND MAZDA TRIBUTES. FOR NHTSA TO DETERMINE IF THIS IS TRULY A SAFETY ISSUE, YOUR WILL NEED TO SECURE A 01 - 06 ESCAPE, REMOVE ONE REAR SHOCK ABSORBER (WORSE CASE FOR THE FAILURE OF MY VEHICLE) AND DRIVE THE VEHICLE ON A ROUGH ROAD. PLEASE HANG ON TIGHT WHEN DOING SO. THE FAILURE OF THE BODY AROUND THE MOUNTING POINT OF A CRITICAL COMPONENT OF A SUSPENSION SYSTEM PUTS THE GENERAL POPULATION AT RISK AS THEY SHARE THE ROADS WITH THE ESCAPE/MARINER/TRIBUTE DRIVERS. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT RESULTS IN FAILURE OF STATE SAFETY INSPECTIONS AND CANNOT BE IGNORED BY THE GOVERNMENT AGENCY WHICH IS CHARGED WITH PREVENTING MANUFACTURER SAFETY DEFECTS FROM ENDANGERING PEOPLE ON PUBLIC ROADS. THIS DEFECT IS VERY WELL DOCUMENT ON THE INTERNET .REMEMBER...TO PROTECT AND SERVE! ME AND OTHERS ON THE ROAD....NOT FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR

Mileage: 157,000

LIKE I SEE MANY OTHER TIMES. 2005 FORD ESCAPE, REAR PASSENGER SUSPENSION IS RUSTED AND ALMOST DETACHED. THIS VEHICLE WAS GARAGE KEPT AND WELL MAINTAINED. *TR

Mileage: 130,000

HEARD THUMPING NOISE ON PASSENGER SIDE REAR. TOOK IT TO CHECK IT OUT AND WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 122,000

I WAS DRIVING MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE WHEN I STARTED HEARING A BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR OF MY VEHICLE. AFTER A FEW DAYS THE BANGING GOT LOUDER AND MY ESCAPE SEEMED TO BE HITTING HARD IN THE BACK LIKE MY SHOCK WASN'T WORKING. WHICH MY HUSBAND HAD CHANGED THEM ABOUT 3 OR 4 MONTHS PRIOR SO I THOUGHT THAT WAS ODD. AFTER DRIVING HER TODAY AND THE BANGING GETTING WORSE I HAD MY HUSBAND LOOK AT MY BACK FENDER WALL. WHEN WE DID WE SEEN IT COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. I CAN TOUCH THE INSIDE OF MY CAR. BUT THE WORST PART OF THIS IS THAT IS WHAT HOLDS MY SHOCK IN PLACE AND IT IS ALL GONE. I CAME INSIDE FRUSTRATED AND DECIDED I WOULD SEE IF THERE ARE PARTS TO FIX IT BEFORE MY SHOCK DECIDES IT IS GOING TO GO FOR A FREE RIDE AND DESTROY EVERYTHING UNDER THERE. TO MY SURPRISE I HAVE NOT FOUND A FIX NOR A RECALL BUT I DID FIND NUMEROUS PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND NO ONE SEEMS TO CARE. I AM VERY SURPRISED THAT NO ONE HAS MADE FORD RECALL THE ESCAPES AND FIX THIS ISSUE. CAN YOU IMAGINE IF I WAS ON THE FREEWAY GOING 70 MPH WHEN THIS BROKE AND THE DAMAGE IT COULD DO TO NOT ONLY MY ESCAPE BUT MY FAMILY, MYSELF, AND OTHER DRIVERS IF I LOST CONTROL OF IT BECAUSE MY SHOCK IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO MY SUV? I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD AND EVERYONE ELSE THAT IS IN CHARGE OF RECALLING VEHICLES. THEY HAVE PUT MY FAMILY, ME, AND ALL THE OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROAD IN DANGER AND NO ONE SEEMS TO CARE. MAYBE I SHOULD BUY A TOYOTA BECAUSE AT LEAST THEY RECALL THEIR VEHICLES AND FIX THEM WHEN THEY HAVE AN ISSUE. FORD DOES NOT SEEM TO CARE ABOUT ANYONE'S SAFETY. *TR

Mileage: 121,000

COMPLAINT ONE: EXCESSIVE RUSTED PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL AND STRUT MOUNT, STRUT MOUNT BROKE AWAY. COMPLAINT TWO: RUSTED ENGINE CRADLE CAUSED PASSENGER SIDE FRONT HALF SHAFT TO SEPARATE FROM CENTER OF THE CAR CAUSING THE TO STOP MOVING FOREWORD AND LOSS OF STEERING. *TR

2005 ESCAPE. LOAD BANGING IN RH REAR OVER EVEN VERY SMALL BUMPS. FOUND SHOCK TOWER IN WHEEL WELL HAD RUSTED AWAY. TOP OF SHOCK NOT CONNECTED TO ANYTHING; MOVING AROUND FREELY. LOUD BANGING NOISE IS FROM THE TOP OF SHOCK HITTING THE BODY WHILE DRIVING. UNDRIVEABLE, SHOCK COULD PUNCH THROUGH THE BODY. LOCAL FRAME SHOP HAS REPAIRED SIX 2005'S IN THE PAST YEAR. COST WILL BE $1200, HOWEVER, PART IS NOT AVAILABLE. VEHICLE PARKED UNTIL THE PART CAN BE OBTAINED AND FIXED. *TR

Mileage: 170,000

SEVERE RUST RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

SEVERE RUSTED OUT REAR WHEEL WELLS CAUSING THE PASSENGER REAR SHOCK TO BREAK. CALLED FORD AND THEY STATED NO RECALL FOR 2005 JUST THRU 2004 AND THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING. STILL OWE MONEY ON THIS VEHICLE AND NOT SURE WHAT IT IS GOING TO COST FOR LARGE REPAIR. NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. LOOK UP THIS GOOGLE AND YOU WILL FIND TONS OF THIS. *TR

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL ON THIS ESCAPE IS COMPLETELY ROTTED. A LARGE PIECE OF THE BODY IN THE WHEEL WELL HAS BROKEN AWAY (AROUND 8X8) WITH THE SHOCK ATTACHED. THE LARGE PIECE OF METAL HAS BEEN BOUNCING IN AND OUT OF THE INDOOR STORAGE COMPARTMENT. I NOW HAVE NO SHOCK ABSORPTION ON THAT WHEEL. I HAVE NOTICED NUMEROUS OTHER PEOPLE THAT SHARE THIS PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. FORD HAS REFUSED TO ASSIST THEM WITH THEIR PROBLEM. I WILL BE TAKING THIS VEHICLE TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP WITH THE DEMAND THAT THIS BE FIXED AT A REASONABLE PRICE, CONSIDERING THE LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE THAT THIS EFFECTS. *TR

Mileage: 198,000

RIGHT BACK SHOCK CAME THROUGH WHEEL WELL AND BROKE THROUGH INTERIOR OF CAR. CAR IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION WITH NO RUST. *TR

Mileage: 155,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND EMITTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR WHEEL WAS RUSTED AND THE SHOCK HAD PENETRATED THE TRUNK. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Mileage: 110,000

SEVERE RUST IN THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL- WHERE THE SHOCK MOUNTS. SHOCK IS ABOUT TO PUSH THRU THE RUST INTO THE INSIDE OF CAR. RUST WAS DISGUISED BY UNDERCOATING BY PREVIOUS OWNER OR DEALER. LOUD NOISE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS, ETC. UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 171,256

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR REGULAR INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIAN NOTIFIED THE CONTACT THAT THE REAR SHOCK MOUNTS WERE COVERED WITH RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Mileage: 86,000

I HEARD A RATTLE IN RIGHT REAR OF ESCAPE. WHEN I INSPECTED THE RIGHT REAR, I FOUND THE WHEEL HOUSE AND SHOCK TOWER IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. THE REST OF THE ESCAPE SHOWS NO RUST. I WAS TOLD BY A MECHANIC NOT TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE. PARTS FOR THIS REPAIR ARE BACK ORDERED AND I CAN,T GET PART UNTIL DECEMBER AT THE SOONEST. *TR

Mileage: 131,400

HAD MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE IN FOR SERVICE AND MECHANIC STATED THAT THERE IS SEVERE RUST ON UNDERCARRIAGE AND REAR WHEEL WELLS. MECHANIC STATED THAT THE CAR WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION BECAUSE OF THIS SAFETY ISSUE AND THAT THE REAR SHOCK MOUNTS ARE RUSTING THROUGH. I CONTACTED FORD AND THEY STATED THAT ONLY THE 2001-2004 MODELS ARE COVERED UNDER THE NEW RECALL AND TO KEEP MY RECEIPTS FOR ANY WORK I HAVE DONE TO FIX IT. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER WITH NO ACCIDENTS AND UNDER 50,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND HAVE READ HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.. *TR

Mileage: 49,000

DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED MY FORD ESCAPE 2005 STARTED TO MAKE LOUD BANGING NOISE FROM PASSENGER SIDE, BEHIND THE BACK SEAT. WHEN WE STOPPED THE STRUT HAD COMPLETELY BROKE AWAY FROM CAR BODY AND WAS LOOSE AND BANGING IN THE WHEEL WELL. I CONTACTED MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND THEY INFORMED ME A RECALL WAS DONE FOR 2000-2004 FORD ESCAPES FOR THIS ISSUE, BUT NO RECALL IS AVAILABLE FOR THE 2005. FROM RECALL INFORMATION, IT IS THE EXACT SAME WHEEL -REAR PASSENGER SIDE IN ALL THE AFFECTED VEHICLES. THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW, AND UNSAFE. *TR

Mileage: 223,000

I BEGAN TO HEAR A THUMPING SOUND FROM THE PASSENGER REAR SIDE LIKE SOMETHING WAS LOOSE. IT TURNS OUT THAT THE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED THROUGH AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS IN DANGER OF BREAKING LOOSE WHICH COULD CAUSE FURTHER DAMAGE AND MAKE THE VEHICLE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. *TR

Mileage: 200,000

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE STREET WHEN I NOTICED A BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR. WHEN I PARKED THE CAR AND INVESTIGATED I REALIZED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED OUT. MY SHOCK IS NOT LONGER ATTACHED TO THE CAR AND EVERY TIME I HIT A BUMP IT SLAMS INTO THE CAR. *TR

Mileage: 109,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL WAS ENTIRELY RUSTED THROUGH THE SHOCK ABSORBER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Mileage: 110,000

WE WERE DRIVING OUR ESCAPE ON CITY ROADS WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN WE HEARD A BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTING WHAT WAS CAUSING THE NOISE, WE FOUND THAT THE SHOCK HAD COMPLETELY WENT THROUGH THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. WE CAN SEE THE PAVEMENT FROM THE INSIDE OF OUR TRUNK. WE HAVE BEEN NOTICING AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS FOR THIS PROBLEM AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY THERE HASN'T BEEN A RECALL YET. WE HAVE ALWAYS BOUGHT FORD CARS BECAUSE THEY HAVE BEEN SAFE FOR OUR FAMILY, HOWEVER, WE MAY HAVE TO RECONSIDER NEXT TIME. WE STILL HAVE NOT HAD THE ISSUE FIXED AND CANNOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 90,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAS ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH. THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS BANGING AGAINST THE INNER INTERIOR MOLDING WHEN THE VEHICLE GOES OVER A BUMP. THERE ARE LARGE HOLES IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER IS ABOUT TO SEPARATE ENTIRELY FROM THE WHEEL WELL LEAVING THE SUSPENSION ON THE RIGHT REAR SIDE OF THE VEHICLE COMPROMISED. THE WHEEL WELL ON THE LEFT REAR OF THE VEHICLE IS IN TACT. *TR

Mileage: 121,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, A VERY LOUD BANGING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED AND CORRODED, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK ABSORBER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,870. UPDATED 3/18/15*CN UPDATED 10/19/2015*JS

Mileage: 55,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK FRACTURED AND PUNCTURED THROUGH A RUSTED HOLE INTO THE REAR INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE UNDERBODY WAS RUSTED, THE REAR SHOCK WAS RUSTED ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE, AND A LARGE HOLE NEAR THE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS PRESENT. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE REAR SHOCK, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.

Mileage: 83,000

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL IS ALL RUSTED OUT AND THE MOUNT FOR THE SHOCK IS BARELY ATTACHED. THIS IS SUSPECT BECAUSE NO OTHER WHEEL WELLS ON THE CAR HAVE CORROSION LIKE THIS. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL SHOCK MOUNT WAS RUSTED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000.

Mileage: 139,000

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAS COMPLETELY CORRODED, AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER UPPER MOUNT HAS ALMOST COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE BODY, MAKING THE VEHICLE UNDRIVABLE.. THE LEFT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT LOOKS LIKE NEW...NO SIGN OF RUST. LOOKING ONLINE AT FORD FORUMS, THERE ARE ALOT OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING OF THIS VERY PROBLEM. FURTHERMORE, MODEL YEARS 2001-2004 FORD ESCAPE WERE RECALLED FOR THE VERY SAME PROBLEM. *TR

Mileage: 125,285

I HAD TO REPLACE THE REAR SHOCKS ON THIS VEHICLE. IN DOING SO THE AUTO REPAIR FATALITY SHOWED ME THAT THE ENTIRE CENTER OF THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WAS CORRODED AWAY, LEAVING BIG HOLE. THE GARAGE TOLD ME THAT THEY HAD SEEN THIS ON SEVERAL OF THIS MODE (2001-2007) I TALKED TO A COUPLE OF DEALERS THAT TOLD ME THE SAME THING. ONE EVEN TOLD ME THAT HE THOUGHT IT SHOULD BE A RECALL. *TR

Mileage: 84,557

OUR 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS A SAFETY ISSUE SO BAD THAT IT'S UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL HAS RUSTED OUT AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT, READY TO BREAK FREE. [XXX] HAS A CO-WORKER WHO DRIVES A 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND WHEN THEY TOOK A LOOK IN HIS FENDER, THEY FOUND THE SAME PROBLEM. [XXX] HAS A CO-WORKER THAT HAS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND IT HAS THE START OF THE HOLE. WE HAVE TALKED TO FORD, THERE IS NO RECALL OR REPAIR CAMPAIGN FOR IT. THEY OFFERED US AN X PLAN TO TRADE IT IN OR THEY WOULD FIX IT AT FULL PRICE. WE HAVE SENT PICTURES TO THE FORD FACTORY REP. HE TOLD US THAT FORD KNOWS OF THIS PROBLEM AND THAT THEY HAVE INSTALLED TWO NEW PROCESSES ON THE PRODUCT LINE TO FIX IT. HE SHOWED THE PICTURE TO THE ESCAPE ENGINEERS AND THEY AGREED THAT IT IS A DESIGN FAULT AND FORD IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE UNSAFE STATE THAT IT'S IN. UNFORTUNATELY NONE OF THEM WILL PUT IT IN WRITING, IN FEAR OF LOSING THEIR JOBS. WE ALSO WROTE AN EMAIL TO THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRANSPORTATION SAFETY DEPARTMENT IN WASHINGTON DC AND STILL HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING FROM THEM. WE GOT QUOTES FROM DIFFERENT BODY SHOPS IN THE AREA, BOTH AT $1200.00. AND THEY HAVE REPAIRED OTHER FORD ESCAPES WITH THE SAME DEFECT. THE REPAIR HAS TO BE DONE FROM THE INSIDE TO REPLACE THE FENDER WELL. THUS ALL THE INTERIOR TRIM HAS TO BE REMOVED AND WELDING BLANKET USED SO THEY DON'T BURN YOUR VEHICLE UP. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Mileage: 115,000

I HAVE PREVIOUSLY FILED A COMPLAINT AFTER TAKING THE ABOVE CAR TO A BODY SHOP WHEN I NOTICED SOME RUSTING IN THE WHEEL WELL AREA. THE BODY SHOP (X3) EXPLAINED THIS WAS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH FORD (PRIOR TO THE 2001-2004 RECALL). I CONTACTED FORD VIA E-MAIL, AND FILED A COMPLAINT HERE. THE WHEEL WELLS IN THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WERE PEELING, AND I WAS TOLD THE SHOCK MOUNT WOULD EVENTUALLY PUNCH THROUGH TO THE INSIDE OF MY VEHICLE RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE. THIS WEEKEND, THIS EXACT THING HAPPENED. FORD HAS NEVER ACKNOWLEDGED MY ISSUE, AND I NOTICED THE COMPLAINTS ON DIFFERENTLY ONLINE FORUMS HAVE INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY SINCE I FIRST NOTICED THE ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS WELL-CARED FOR WITH ALL APPROPRIATE MAINTENANCE COMPLETED. THE BODY SHOPS I WENT TO DID NOT WANT TO FIX MY VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY FELT FORD NEEDED TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM. *TR

Mileage: 191,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT AN SEVERAL PLACES TO WERE THAT STRUT MOUNT IS LOOSE AN FALLING APART, AN WILL CAUSE AN ACCIDENT IF NOT FIXED. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE ON THAT EXACT TIRE AN THE EXACT YEAR IN THOUSANDS OF FORD ESCAPES. THIS IS OVER $2000 AND IS APPARENT ON DRIVERS SIDE AS WELL. VEHICLE FAILED SAFETY INSPECTION AND WITH 2 SMALL CHILDREN TO TRANSPORT AND NO FUNDS TO REPLACE VEHICLE. I HAVE READ THOUSANDS OF POST ONLINE OF PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME ISSUES AND WITH RECENT RECALLS FOR SIMILAR BODY/SUSPENSION PART FAILURES IN FORD VEHICLES OF SIMILAR YEARS FEEL THIS IS A RECALL ISSUE. PLEASE LOOK START INVESTIGATION AND PROTECT THE CONSUMERS. THANK YOU. *TR

Mileage: 95,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT AN SEVERAL PLACES TO WERE THAT STRUT MOUNT IS LOOSE AN FALLING APART, AN WILL CAUSE AN ACCIDENT IF NOT FIXED. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE ON THAT EXACT TIRE AN THE EXACT YEAR IN THOUSANDS OF FORD ESCAPES. THIS IS OVER $2000 TO REPAIR AT WHICH THE VEHICLE IS NOT EVEN WORTH THAT MUCH. I AM A SINGLE PARENT AN NOT GOOD ENOUGH CREDIT TO GET A NEW CAR DUE TO HAVING CANCER A FEW YEARS AGO HAVING TO LET MY CREDIT GO. NOR DO I HAVE $2000 TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. I STILL OWE $4000 ON THE CAR AS WELL. *TR

Mileage: 200,000

RIGHT REAR STRUT MOUNT COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH TO WHERE MOUNT HAD NOTHING TO MOUNT TO. STRUT BANGING ON WHEEL WELL. *TR

Mileage: 127,000

THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK BROKE LOOSE AS A RESULT OF EXTREME RUST IN THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AROUND THE SHOCK TOWER. *TR

WHILE TRAVELING IN VIRGINIA LAST SUMMER ON I-81, THE BODY END OF THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK-ABSORBER CAME LOOSE FROM THE FRAME. WE STOPPED SHORTLY AFTER WE FELT AND HEARD SOMETHING THAT WAS CLEARLY ABNORMAL AND A MECHANIC TOLD US THE CAR WAS SO RUSTED IN THAT WHEEL WELL THAT THE TOP OF THE SHOCK HAD NOTHING TO HOLD TO. WE WERE ON A LONG TRIP, SO WE HAD THE SHOCK CUT OUT UNTIL WE GOT HOME. NONE OF THE OTHER UNDERBODY AREAS SHOWED SIGNIFICANT RUST, ACCORDING TO THE MECHANICS WE CONSULTED, SO WE SUBSEQUENTLY PAID SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS TO HAVE A NEW WHEEL WELL FABRICATED AND INSTALLED ALONG WITH NEW REAR SHOCKS ON BOTH SIDES. WE SEE NO RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT ON THE WEB WE QUICKLY FOUND SEVERAL OWNERS OF THE SAME MODEL CAR DESCRIBING THE SAME PROBLEM - THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTING OUT. HOW CAN THIS NOT BE A DESIGN ISSUE? CERTAINLY IT'S SIGNIFICANT A SAFETY ISSUE, ESPECIALLY SINCE THE AREA OF SEVERE RUST WAS NOT APPARENT FROM LOOKING AT THE CAR. NOW THE DRIVER SIDE IS SHOWING SIGNIFICANT EXTERIOR RUST AT THE LIP OF THE WHEEL WELL, SO WE WILL BE SENDING IT IN TO HAVE OUR MECHANIC SEE IF THE SAME PROBLEM IS HAPPENING ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE. HELP! THANK YOU FOR ANYTHING YOU CAN DO. *TR

Mileage: 114,000

RIGHT, REAR WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. SHOCK HAS BECOME DETACHED. LOUD BANGING NOISE. SHOCK POKING THROUGH TO THE TRUNK. UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

THERE STARTED TO BE A BANGING NOISE IN RIGHT REAR AREA OF VEHICLE. AFTER INSPECTION, I FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK HAD SEPARATED ITS MOUNT FROM THE WHEEL WELL DUE TO EXCESSIVE RUST. *TR

RIGHT REAR WELL TOTALLY RUSTED OUT INCLUDING THE AREA OF THE SHOCK MOUNT,LEAVING THE SHOCK WITH NO SUPPORT TO STABILIZE IT.

NOTICED A LOUD BANGING COMING FROM PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL. LOOKED FROM OUTSIDE AND SAW A LARGE CRACK IN THE FRAMEWORK OF WHEEL WELL. REMOVED THE INTERIOR PANEL AND FOUND THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND AROUND THE STRUT. STRUT IS ONLY HELD BY LOWER SECTION OF METAL BUT FLEXES ENOUGH GOING DOWN THE ROAD THAT IT BANGS ON THE INTERIOR PANEL WHICH IS THE ONLY WAY I KNEW I HAD AN ISSUE. IF I DID NOT STOP AND LOOK I MAY HAVE BEEN DRIVING AND THE STRUT COULD HAVE BROKE COMPLETELY FREE WHICH IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN. *TR

Mileage: 156,000

MY WIFE WAS DRIVING HER 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND NOTICED A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE NOISE HAPPENED WHEN SHE WAS HITTING BUMPS IN THE ROAD. UPON INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE, I NOTICE A HOLE RUSTED THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. I REMOVED THE INTERIOR PANEL TO DISCOVER THE WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION!. I THOROUGHLY CHECKED ALL OF THE OTHER SHOCKS ON THE VEHICLE. THIS AREA IS THE ONLY ONE AFFECTED. *TR

Mileage: 140,000

REAR UPPER SHOCK MOUNT BLEW THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL AND INTO THE VEHICLE INTERIOR LEAVING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE, LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS THIS NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED IMMEDIATELY! *TR

Mileage: 89,000

I WAS DRIVING WHEN VERY LOUD BANGING START IN THE REAR TRUNK AREA. I THOUGHT IT WAS A WORN SHOCK. IT WAS MUCH WORSE THAN THAT. THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY FROM THE BODY. THERE IS A LARGE HOLE IN THE TRUNK AREA WHERE YOU CAN SEE THE TIRE FROM INSIDE. *TR

Mileage: 165,000

WHILE DRIVING THE 2005 ESCAPE A NOISE WAS STARTING TO COME FROM THE RIGHT REAR OF THE CAR. SUDDENLY THERE WAS A LOUD CLANKING WHEN EVER A BUMP OR EVEN SLIGHT CHANGE IN THE ROAD OCCURRED. ALMOST RAN OFF THE ROAD IT WAS SO SUDDEN. IT SOUNDED LIKE SOMETHING WAS COMING THROUGH THE BACK OF THE CAR. WHEN I GOT TO WORK I COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING, BUT IT CONTINUED. FINALLY I HAD SOMEONE LOOK IT OVER CLOSELY AND THEY FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR WELL WAS RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK WAS NOT CONNECTED TO ANYTHING ON THE CAR AS THERE WAS NOTHING FOR IT TO CONNECT TO. TOOK IT TO 2 DIFFERENT BODY SHOPS TO CHECK ON THE REPAIRS NEEDED ONE QUOTED $3-$5,000 THE OTHER SAID AT LEAST $3,000. BOTH SAID THEY HAD SEEN THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM ON THIS YEAR VEHICLE SEVERAL TIMES IN THE PAST MONTH! WHAT IS GOING ON? THE FORD DEALERSHIP ACTED LIKE THEY DIDN'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT IT. COME ON! SOMETHING IS UP. VERY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD. WE HAVE ALWAYS HAD FORDS, ALL OF OUR VEHICLES ARE FORDS AND UNTIL RECENTLY WE HAD NOT HAD ANY ISSUES. NOW WE ARE QUESTIONING OUR LOYALTY, BIG TIME. *TR

Mileage: 158,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE UPPER SHOCK TOWER WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, WHO STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS UNKNOWN AND RECOMMENDED THAT THE ENTIRE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,238.

Mileage: 113,238

MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE BEGAN MAKING A RATTLING NOISE IN THE BACK PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I WENT OVER BUMPS, THE NOISE BECAME LOUDER. I WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE PROBLEM UNTIL I NOTICED THAT THE WHEEL WELL OF MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY CORRODED AWAY. QUICKLY THE SHOCK TOWER HAS GONE THROUGH MY TRUNK LEAVING A HOLE IN MY TRUNK INTO THE WHEEL WELL OF MY VEHICLE. I LEARNED OF THIS WHEN I WAS WALKING TO MY VEHICLE AND SAW SOME CLOTHES FROM MY TRUNK HANGING OUT OF THE CAR THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL. THROUGH MY RESEARCH I HAVE FOUND THAT THE ESCAPES FROM 2001-2004 HAVE HAD THESE SAME ISSUES, BUT HAVE BEEN RECALLED. I AM CONFUSED AS TO WHY THE 2005S HAVE NOT YET BEEN RECALLED. I HAVE CHILDREN THAT COULD LITERALLY FALL THROUGH THE VEHICLE FROM INSIDE. THIS WEBSITE, HTTP://WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM/FORD/ESCAPE/2005/BODY_PAINT/EXCESSIVE_WHEEL_WELL_RUST.SHTML, DESCRIBES THE SAME ISSUES I HAVE ENCOUNTERED. *TR

I DISCOVERED THAT MY REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. IT IS ALSO RUSTING THE FRAME OF MY FORD ESCAPE. RUST SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE ESCAPE AND THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE 01-04 MODELS. NOT SURE WHY 05 IS BEING IGNORED. THIS IS A VERY VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. MY SHOCK DOES NOT APPEAR TO EVEN BE CONNECTED AT THIS POINT. THERE IS NOTHING THAT I DID TO CAUSE THIS PROBLEM. I TOOK PICTURES AND CAN SEND THEM TO THE PROPER PERSON. I TOOK IT TO A BODY SHOP AND THEY TOLD ME THE CAR IS VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. I REALLY HAVE NO CHOICE AT THIS POINT. IF SOMETHING TERRIBLE WAS TO HAPPEN THEN I GUESS MY NEXT STEP WOULD BE TO TALK TO A LAWYER. I HOPE THAT THIS MATTER IS LOOKED INTO ON THE 2005 FORD ESCAPE AND THE PROPER RECALL IS PLACED IMMEDIATELY. I AM NOT SURE WHAT IS CAUSING THE RUST AND CORROSION ISSUE ON THE ESCAPES, BUT I CAN ASSURE YOU THAT THE 2005 MODELS ARE JUST AS DAMAGED AS THE 2001-2004 MODELS. I AM VERY NERVOUS TO DRIVE MY CAR, BUT I ALSO HAVE TO GO TO WORK TO MAKE A LIVING AND PAY FOR THE CAR. I HOPE THIS MESSAGE GETS TO THE RIGHT PERSON AND I HOPE IMMEDIATE ACTION IS TAKEN. A WRECK, INJURY, OR FATALITY CAN BE PREVENTED IF SOMETHING IS DONE ABOUT THIS NOW. PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR PICTURES OF MY WHEEL WELL AND RUST ON THE CAR. I HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE SOON. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

THE VEHICLE HAD EXCESSIVE RUST ESPECIALLY IN THE WHEEL WELLS. THIS RUST WAS SO EXCESSIVE THAT IT CAUSED THE SHOCKS AND STRUTS TO BREAK AWAY FROM THE CAR BODY ITSELF. MULTIPLE BODY SHOPS AND CAR DEALERS INFORMED ME THAT THERE WAS NO WAY TO REPAIR THE CARD SINCE THE RUST DAMAGE WAS SO SEVERE THERE WOULD BE NO WAY TO CORRECT THE DAMAGE. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

PASSENGER REAR WHEEL SHOCK SUPPORT AND UNI-BODY FRAME HAS RUSTED OUT TO THE POINT THAT IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I SEE THAT THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS SHOWING UP ON THIS ALL IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS, AND AT THE SAME MILEAGE RANGE. THIS IS DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND SHOULD BE FIXED BY FORD BEFORE DEATHS START HAPPENING. *TR

Mileage: 128,000

AFTER STOPPING AT A STOP SIGN, I SLOWLY ACCELERATED TO AROUND 25MPH AS I USUALLY DO WHEN LEAVING MY HOME. MY VEHICLE, WHICH NORMALLY QUIETLY GLIDES OVER SMALL DENTS IN THE ROAD, WAS NOW MAKING A VERY LOUD NOISE WITH EVERY BUMPY ENCOUNTER, AND IT FELT AS THOUGH THERE WAS NO SHOCK ABSORPTION WHATSOEVER ON THE RIGHT REAR SIDE. AT THE TIME, THERE WAS NO VISIBLE DAMAGE TO THE EXTERIOR OF THE WHEEL WELL, JUST UNDERCOATING, SO I DROVE ON THINKING IT MAY BE A STRUT IN NEED OF REPLACING. THE NOISE NEVER STOPPED AFTER THAT DAY, AND I REALIZE NOW AFTER RESEARCHING THE PROBLEM, THAT THIS IS A COMMON COMPLAINT WITH THIS VEHICLE, AND THAT PREVIOUS YEAR MODELS OF THE ESCAPE AND THE WINDSTAR HAVE BEEN RECALLED BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY FOR THIS VERY REASON (DEFECTIVE MATERIAL AND ASSEMBLY, INVOLVING RIGHT RUSTED STRUT MOUNT) BUT FOR REASONS UNKNOWN, FORD HAS NOT YET PLACED A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE FOR THE 2005 ESCAPE. I SPOKE ABOUT THIS DEFECT WITH MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT, THE SAME DEALERSHIP FROM WHOM I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THEY ACKNOWLEDGED THIS ISSUE AS A KNOWN ISSUE, BUT AGREED THAT FORD HAS NOT YET PUT OUT AN OFFICIAL RECALL, WHICH MEANS I MUST PAY FOR THE REPAIR. WHAT'S MORE UPSETTING IS THAT MY VEHICLE IS NOW IN NEED OF INSPECTION AND I UNDERSTAND IT WON'T PASS WITHOUT THIS REPAIR BEING MADE. I FEEL THAT FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD PAY FOR THIS REPAIR AS IT IS A KNOWN ISSUE AND IT IS ALSO A DANGEROUS ONE. *TR

Mileage: 104,000

I OWN A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL SHOCK MOUNT SUPPORT HAS RUSTED AWAY AND NOW THERE IS A LOUD BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK. SAME ISSUE THAT IT APPEARS MANY INDIVIDUALS ARE HAVING. $2200 IS THE ESTIMATE TO GET THIS FIXED. BACK LEFT WHEEL WELL IS JUST FINE. *TR

Mileage: 145,000

CPSC: I1470151A. 2005 FORD ESCAPE. CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AND THE SHOCK FELL OFF. THE OTHER WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED AND APPEARED TO BE FALLING OFF, AS WELL.

I OWN A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL SHOCK MOUNT SUPPORT HAS RUSTED AWAY AND NOW THERE IS A LOUD BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK. WAS CURIOUS AS TO IF FORD WAS DOING ANYTHING ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE APPROXIMATELY A 188,000 MILES ON IT NOW. *TR

Mileage: 187,750

WHILE DRIVING, LOUD BANG SOUND HEARD WHEN GOING OVER BUMBS. REVIEW OF THE RIGHT (PASSENGER SIDE) REAR WHEEL WELL INDICATED SEVERE RUSTING. AFTER TAKING TO DEARLERSHIP AND BODY SHOP, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETLY RUSTED THROUGH AND FRAME WAS DETACHED FROM SHOCK. BODY SHOP INDICATED THAT REPAIRS ARE ESTIMATED AT $5,000 TO THE SUB FRAME . AFTER CONDUCTING RESEARCH, THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL YEAR ESCAPE. CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SINCE 2005 MODEL WAS NOT PART OF APRIL 2014 RECALL NOTICE (2001-2004 ONLY), THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. THEY ALSO INDICATED NO CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAMS EXISTED FOR THIS ISSUE. ESCAPE MILEAGE IS 130,000. *TR

Mileage: 129,700

A FEW WEEKS AGO WE STARTED TO HEAR A FAINT NOISE COMING FROM UNDER THE RIGHT SIDE WHEEL WELL OF THE VEHICLE. AS THE DAYS WENT ON THE NOISE STARTED TO GET LOUDER AND IT SOUNDED LIKE THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR WASN'T SHUTTING. AFTER TAKING IT INTO THE SHOP THE MECHANIC HAD TOLD US THAT WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED OUT AND THAT THE SHOCK WAS GOING UP AND DOWN PRETTY MUCH SHAKING RIGHT THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL. THE SHOCK HAD COME THROUGH THE INSIDE PLASTIC OF THE TRUNK (NOW WE HAVE A HUGE HOLE) AND WE HAD TO PARK IT UNTIL WE CAN FIX IT. THE FIRST THING THE MECHANIC TOLD US IS THAT THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE AND IT GOING TO COST HUNDREDS TO RE-FABRICATE. THIS SHOULD DEFIANTLY BE ON THE RECALL LIST AS WE HAVE READ SEVERAL PEOPLE HAVE HAD VERY SIMILAR PROBLEMS. *TR

Mileage: 107,000

WHILE DRIVING MY ESCAPE I NOTICED THAT IF I HIT EVEN A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD THERE WAS A VERY LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR END. I STOPPED TO CHECK IT OUT AND SEEN THAT THE REAR PASSENGERS SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH LEAVING MY SHOCK WITH VERY LITTLE SUPPORT. IT SEEMS TO BE A FLAW / SAFETY ISSUE WITH THESE ESCAPES WITH NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS BUT NO RECALL. TRUCK PARKED NO SAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 250,050

WHILE DRIVING ALONG I NOTICED A LITTLE RATTLE WHEN I RODE OVER BUMPS, ASSUMED IT WAS REGULAR RANDOM NOISES FROM UNEVEN ASPHALT. MAKE IT TO THE CORNER OF MY STREET AND THE RATTLE IS ANNOYING NOW. I PULLED OVER TO CHECK IT OUT DIDN'T NOTICE ANYTHING SO I CONTINUE ON HOME AS SOON AS I PULL IN I HEAR A BIG CLUNK. GET OUT AND WHAT IS APPARENTLY MY SHOCK MOUNT IS LYING ON THE GROUND. LOOK UNDER CAR NEAR WHERE ITS LAYING AND THE COMPLETE WHEEL WELL AT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE IS RUSTED OUT SO BAD THAT THE MOUNT HAD NOTHING TO HOLD TO. I CAN COMPLETELY SEE THROUGH TO THE INSIDE OF THE HATCH. WITH 3 KIDS, 2 UNDER 6 YRS OLD I CAN NOT TRANSPORT MY KIDS SAFELY AND IM STUCK BECAUSE I JUST BOUGHT CAR THIS FEB,4 MONTHS AGO AND IM STILL PAYING A CAR NOTE. TO EXPENSIVE TO FIX WHEN SOMEONE ACTUALLY SAYS THEY CAN FIX IT. CHECKED ONLINE AND YOU WOULDN'T BELIEVE HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS EXACT PROBLEM SAME SIDE AND ALL. THIS CAN NOT BE A COINCIDENCE AND FORD HAD A RECALL FOR THIS VERY THING FOR YEARS 2001-2004 SO THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM HOWEVER THEY A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF COMPLAINTS BEFORE A RECALL CAN BE ISSUED. IF YOU HAVE THIS PROBLEM PLEASE FILE A COMPLAINT. *TR

Mileage: 111,427

FOUND RUST HOLE IN INNER FENDER ON PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL..THEN HEARD NOISE SUCH AS DOOR NOT SHUT.REINSPECTED TO SEE SHOCK NOT ATTACHED AS RUST ATE AWAY THE SUPPORT.ALL ESCAPES OF THIS YEAR HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM..FORD SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS AND ANY DAMAGE THAT OCCURS.VERY DANGEROUS. *TR

Mileage: 124,000

PASSENGER REAR WHEELHOUSE TOTALLY RUSTED THROUGH. NO SUPPORT FOR SHOCK MOUNTING. VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVABLE. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

PASSENGER SIDE REAR SHOCK ABSORBER UPPER MOUNT BROKE LOOSE DUE TO A CORRODED WHEEL WELL. *JS

Mileage: 103,852

I JUST PURCHASED THIS 2005 FORD ESCAPE AT THE END OF MAY 2014 WITH ONLY 73333 MILES ON IT AND IT WAS RUNNING GREAT. THEN A MONTH LATER I STARTED HEARING A LOUD BANG UNDER THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT AREA AFTER GOING OVER A FEW NORMAL LITTLE BUMPS IN THE RESIDENTIAL STREETS.(LIKE CRACKS OR SEWER LID) I CHECK IT OUT THERE WAS SOME EXCESSIVE RUST IN THE WHEEL WELL AREA. I DROVE IT FOR ANOTHER WEEK WITH THIS ANNOYING SOUND THEN IT GOT WORSE MAKING LOOSE CLANKING AND SQUEAKING NOISE CONSTANTLY WITH THE BANGING NOISE. I SEARCHED UNDER THE VEHICLE AND IN THE WHEEL WELL, IT'S COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. THE SHOCK/STRUT? ARE MOUNTED TO NOTHING BUT CRUMBLING RUST. IT IS JUST FREE FROM THE WHEEL WELL NOW. I CAN'T EVEN DRIVE IT. FROM THE OTHER COMPLAINTS I CAN SEE THIS WILL NOT BE AN EASY FIX NOR DOES FORD COMPANY RECOGNIZE THIS IS A FAULTY ISSUE WITH THIS VEHICLE AND SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE EARLY CORROSION IN THE WHEEL WELL AREAS WITH THIS VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 73,700

THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK IS STICKING INTO THE REAR OF THE BACK OF THE CAR. IT IS DANGEROUS AND FORD HAS A RECALL ON 2000 - 2004 FOR THIS ISSUE NOT THE 2005. *TR

Mileage: 150,000

TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD THUMPING NOISE FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS CORRODED AND THE SHOCK MOUNT HAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE MILEAGE WAS 124,714. PAM

Mileage: 124,714

TL * THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE RATTLED AS THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO AN UNKNOWN OBJECT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE STRUTS HOUSING WAS DECAYED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.

Mileage: 113,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO MAKE A LOUD BANGING NOISE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED THAT THE REAR SHAFT WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

Mileage: 180,000

I WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET WHEN I STARTED HEARING LOUD BANGING NOISES FROM THE REAR OF MY ESCAPE WHENEVER I WENT OVER ANY TYPE OF BUMP. ONCE HOME, I LOOKED AROUND AND DISCOVERED THAT THE WHEELHOUSE PANEL ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF MY ESCAPE WAS SEVERELY RUSTED AND DETERIORATING. THERE WERE SEVERAL LARGE HOLES IN THE METAL. THE WHEELHOUSE PANELS AROUND THE OTHER THREE WHEELS LOOK FINE WITH MINIMAL TO NO SIGNS OF RUST. I TOOK MY ESCAPE TO A FORD DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THE DAMAGE WOULD COST ME $2,350 TO HAVE THEM FIX IT, BUT THAT THEY COULD NOT GET TO WORK ON IT FOR ABOUT 2 WEEKS. I CHECKED AROUND ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THAT OTHER PEOPLE WERE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THEIR 2004 - 2006 ESCAPES. I CALLED FORD AND WAS TOLD THAT NO RECALL IS UNDERWAY TO FIX WHAT, TO ME, IS A PROBLEM DUE TO SOMETHING THAT FORD WAS DOING WRONG FROM 2004 TO 2006, AND THAT FORD SHOULD STEP UP TO FIX FREE OF CHARGE. I'VE TAKEN MY ESCAPE TO SEVERAL BODY SHOPS TO RECEIVE OTHER ESTIMATES ON THE COST OF THE WORK. SEVERAL OF THOSE BODY SHOP EXPERTS SAID THAT THERE IS NO WAY THAT A NINE YEAR OLD AUTO SHOULD HAVE AS MUCH RUST AND DETERIORATION AS MINE HAS, FURTHER STRENGTHENING MY BELIEF THAT THIS DUE TO A SCREW UP BY FORD. I'VE MADE ARRANGEMENTS WITH ONE OF THOSE BODY SHOPS TO HAVE THE WORK DONE THIS WEEK FOR ABOUT $800, ABOUT A THIRD LESS THAN FORD WANTED ME TO PAY TO FIX THEIR SCREW UP. BEFORE THIS, I WOULD HAVE RECOMMENDED A FORD TO ANYONE. IN ADDITION TO MY ESCAPE, I'VE ALSO BOUGHT A FORD EXPLORER AND A FORD ESCORT FOR MYSELF AS WELL AS A 2003 FORD ESCAPE FOR MY DAUGHTER. BUT, IF FORD IS THE KIND OF COMPANY THAT WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS MISTAKES AND WILL NOT TAKE CARE OF ITS CUSTOMERS, I WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER OF THEIR AUTOMOBILES. *TR

Mileage: 129,320

(CASE# [XXX]) (FORD ESCAPE 2005 SUB-FRAME DEFECT) I WISH TO REPORT AN EXTREMELY UNSAFE CONDITION THAT HAS OCCURRED WITH MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS, WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, I HAVE NOTICED A LOUD METAL-SOUNDING BANGING NOISE WHENEVER THE CAR GOES OVER EVEN A SLIGHT BUMP/CRACK IN THE ROAD. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE INTO OUR LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP TWICE TO HAVE THE PROBLEM CHECKED OUT. FIRST TIME, FORD REPLACED THE LINKS (?), WHICH DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. THE SECOND TIME, I POINTED OUT TO SERVICE TECHNICIAN THAT THE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED THROUGH. SERVICE TECHNICIAN REMOVED INTERIOR COVERING TO FURTHER INSPECT DAMAGE, AND DISCOVERED THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS STICKING UP INTO THE VEHICLE. SERVICE TECHNICIAN REFERRED VEHICLE TO THEIR (FORD DEALERSHIP) BODY SHOP, WHO'S TECHNICIAN INFORMED ME THAT THE SUB-FRAME IS RUSTED OUT AND WOULD COST AT LEAST $6000 TO REPAIR. I DECLINED THEIR REPAIR OFFER, AND BROUGHT THE VEHICLE HOME. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH (VEHICLE SAFETY AND RECALL WEBSITES), I WAS SHOCKED TO DISCOVER THAT MANY OTHER OWNERS OF 2005 FORD ESCAPES ARE EXPERIENCING AND REPORTING THIS SAME PROBLEM, AND ARE FRUSTRATED AND ANGRY THAT A RECALL HAS NOT BEEN ISSUED BY FORD. THESE VEHICLES ARE ONLY NINE YEARS OLD, ARE NOW TOTALLY WORTHLESS, AND ARE EXTREMELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I HAVE BEEN FORCED TO FIND ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION, WHICH IS A MAJOR INCONVENIENCE AND EXPENSE FOR ME. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Mileage: 132,507

YOU HAVE FAILED TO RESPOND TO OUR PREVIOUS POSTS. WE STILL AWAIT YOUR REPORT ABOUT THIS ISSUE. THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL HAS DISINTEGRATED LEAVING THE SHOCK ABSORBER UNCONNECTED TO ANYTHING AT THE TOP. IT HAS BEEN REMOVED TO PREVENT IT CAUSING FURTHER DAMAGE OR DAMAGE TO THE BREAK LINES. SEARCH ON FACEBOOK UNDER 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THERE ARE LOADS OF VEHICLES WITH EXACTLY THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS WEEK SOMEONE REPORTED THEIR BRAKE LINE HAD BEEN DAMAGED BY THIS ISSUE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT FORD NEED TO ADDRESS URGENTLY. *TR

Mileage: 132,000

WE WERE DRIVING ALONG AND STARTED TO HEAR THIS BANGING NOISE WHICH WAS GETTING PROGRESSIVELY LOUDER. WHEN I FOUND A SAFE SPOT TO PULL OFF THE ROAD I DID, AND GOT OUT TO INVESTIGATE WHAT WAS MAKING THE NOISE. WHEN I GOT TO THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM I DISCOVERED THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER IS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT. I CAN ACTUALLY STICK MY HAND UP THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL INTO THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. *TR

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH, UNDERMINING STRUT SUPPORT. ALL OTHER WHEEL WELLS HAVE MINIMAL TO NORMAL RUST WITH RUST PROOFING MATERIAL STILL IN PLACE. BODY OF VEHICLE HAS NO RUST AT ALL AND IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS BEEN GARAGED AND WASHED REGULARLY. *TR

Mileage: 68,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHENEVER DRIVING OVER A BUMP, THE VEHICLE WOULD MAKE A LOUD KNOCKING SOUND IN THE REAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL HAD CORRODED AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000.

Mileage: 105,000

RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OFF. *TR

Mileage: 167,000

WHILE WASHING THE CAR, I NOTICED A HOLE IN THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL BIG ENOUGH TO STICK MY FIST THRU WITHOUT TOUCHING ANY METAL. THE SHOCK ABSORBER WILL SOON BE ATTACHED TO NOTHING. IT ALSO APPEARS THE FRAME IS RUSTING AND GETTING THIN. I AM UNSURE OF THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE VEHICLE AT THIS POINT AND WANT TO KNOW THE SAFETY ISSUES INVOLVED. I ALSO WANT TO KNOW WHY FORD HAS NOT YET RECALLED THESE VEHICLES WHEN THE OLDER MODELS HAVE BEEN RECALLED. THERE IS LITTLE DIFFERENCE IN A 2004 AND A 2005. *TR

Mileage: 210,729

EXCESSIVE RUST/CORROSION IN RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. SHOCK ABSORBER AFFECTED AND PUSHING THROUGH WHEEL WELL INTO INTERIOR OF CAR. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

NOTICED CLANKING NOISE COMING FROM PASSENGER SIDE REAR. THOUGHT STRUT MOUNT WAS FAILING. REMOVED INSIDE PANEL TO REVEAL WHEEL WELL SERIOUSLY RUSTED OUT. WAS INFORMED BY MECHANIC THAT THIS COULD LEAD TO SUSPENSION FAILURE. CHECKED ONLINE AND FOUND SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF LIKE VEHICLES AFFECTED BY THE SAME PROBLEM. WILL PROBABLY COST $1500 TO REPAIR. NOTICED FORD USED WHAT LOOK LIKE SEVERAL THIN LAYERS OF METAL SANDWICHED TOGETHER AND THAT THE RUSTING BEGAN FROM WITHIN. *TR

Mileage: 95,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD EXHIBIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN DRIVING OVER A ROAD BUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK MOUNT WAS COVERED WITH RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000. UPDATED 3/24/15*CN

Mileage: 122,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT COMPLETELY. SHOCK WENT THRU THE BODY INTO THE TRUNK OF MY CAR. BEEN TOLD BY MULTIPLE SHOPS THEY WOULDN'T DO ANYTHING BECAUSE OF LIABILITY REASONS. FORD ACTS LIKE THEY'VE NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM BUT IF YOU GOOGLE THE ISSUE 1000'S OF THE SAME ISSUE WILL SHOW. *TR

Mileage: 203,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE, SHOCK SEPARATION FROM VEHICLE/FRAME. RUSTED SO BAD THERE ARE HOLES IN WHEEL WELL. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH OVER A ROAD BUMP, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE HEARD FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK TOWER WAS FRACTURED AND THE TIRE SEPARATED FROM THE WHEEL WELL DUE TO SEVERE CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. TH E FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 111,000.

Mileage: 111,000

THE FIRST NOTICE WAS THAT THE WHOLE BASE COVER WAS ROTTING THEN ONCE THAT WAS WORN THROUGH YOU WERE ABLE TO SEE THAT THE FRAME THAT CONNECTS THE SHOCK, TIRE AND WHEEL WELL WAS SO CORRODED ITS BREAKING BY PIECES. TO DATE 5/29/2014 THE SHOCK WITH PIPE ATTACHED HAD TO BE TAKEN OFF. NO ANSWERS TO RECALL OR BEING FIXED BY FORD THIS PRICES TO FIX OR LOCATE PARTS ARE EXPENSIVE AND MOST OF THE REPAIR SHOPS SAY IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN AGAIN. I FINANCED THIS VEHICLE AND WAS NOT TOLD OF THE DEFECT AND BY REPORTING A COMPLAINT REGARDING THE CAR DEALERSHIP I WAS ADVISED TO LET THE FINANCE COMPANY KNOW OF THE INCIDENT BECAUSE THE DEALERSHIP DIDN'T WANT TO DO ANYTHING TO TAKE THE CAR BACK NOW I'M STUCK OWNING FOR SOMETHING THAT IS A ROAD HAZARD THAT I HAVE TO DRIVE BECAUSE I CAN NOT GET ANOTHER VEHICLE. FORD HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY CAR OF CHOSE BUT THIS IS CRAZY AND HOW COME THEY ARE NOT MADE TO TAKE THESE VEHICLES AND DO SOMETHING ABOUT THESE LIFE OF DEATH PROBLEMS. I SENT PICTURES TO FORD'S WEBSITE AND FB PAGE AND STILL NO RESPONSE AS I SEE THEIR ARE SEVERAL OTHERS THAT HAVE THE SAME ISSUES WHAT ARE WE THE CONSUMER SUPPOSE TO DO YOU ALL SAY TAKE A MECHANIC THEY WOULD NOT HAVE SEEN THESE PROBLEMS BECAUSE OF THE MASKING. FOR THOSE THAT CANT AFFORD TO KEEP PURCHASING WAITING OR DRIVING THESE VEHICLES WAITING ON THE TIME WHEN ITS AN ACCIDENT DEATH OR CRASH WE HAVE TO PUT IN THESE COMPLAINTS. *TR

I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. NOTICED A RATTLING AND BANGING SOUND THOUGHT I HAD A BROKEN SHOCK OR STRUT. AFTER BETTER INSPECTION NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL HAS CORRODED SO BAD THAT THE STRUT/SHOCK MOUNT WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE SUV AND IS BANGING ON THE INNER PLASTIC. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE, VERY COSTLY TO FIX. NEEDS TO BE A RECALL !!! *TR

Mileage: 84,000

AS I SIT HERE AND READ ALL THESE REPORTS ON FORD ESCAPE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL ISSUES, I WONDER HOW LONG OR WHAT IS IT GOING TO TAKE FOR FORD TO REALIZE THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM WHICH NEEDS TAKEN CARE OF. *TR

Mileage: 150,000

THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL IS TOTALLY DEFECTIVE AND UNSEEN CORROSION CAN WEAKEN OR DESTROY THE SHOCK ABSORBER TOWER. DRIVERS ARE NOT AWARE OF ANY ISSUES UNTIL THE SHOCK BREAKS FREE OF THE WHEEL WELL AND JAMS INTO THE BODY. THIS ISSUE OCCURS BECAUSE AWD SUVS HAVE THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL THAT ALWAYS SPINS IN SNOW AND ICE, WHICH IN TURN OVER SPRAYS THE RIGHT REAR WELL WITH CORROSIVE MATERIAL. *TR

Mileage: 90,000

I RECENTLY NOTICED A THUMPING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR WHEN TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD, I HAD MY MECHANIC LOOK INTO IT AND THEY NOTICED EXTREME CORROSION ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. MY MECHANIC INDICATED THAT HE HAD NEVER SEEN EXTREME CORROSION OF THIS MAGNITUDE ON A VEHICLE OF THIS AGE. THE OTHER 3 WHEEL WELLS ARE IN GOOD SHAPE, BUT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE ONE IS RUSTED OUT. THE SHOCK MOUNT IS CORRODED AND IS UNABLE TO ADEQUATELY SUPPORT MY SHOCK. THEY ADVISED THAT I TAKE IT INTO A COLLISION SHOP WHICH I DID. THE COLLISION SHOP TOOK PICTURES AND QUOTED ME A PRICE ON THE REPAIRS, I WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAVE RECENTLY SEEN THIS SAME ISSUE WITH THE FORD ESCAPE FROM THERE CUSTOMER BASE. I ALSO RESEARCHED AND FOUND THAT FORD HAS ISSUED RECALLS ON THE 2001-2004 FORD ESCAPES FOR A RUST ISSUE STEMMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THERE IS A RECENT TREND OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS THAT HAVE SPIKED OVER THE PAST YEAR IN REGARDS TO THE SAME ISSUE IN THE SAME SPOT FOR 2005 FORD ESCAPES. *TR

Mileage: 124,000

WHILE DRIVING DOWN TO THE BAY ON A FISHING TRIP I KEPT HEARING SOMETHING BANGING IN THE BACK OF MY 2005 ESCAPE. I STOPPED AND FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR FENDERWELL HAD RUSTED AN ND THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS LOOSE FROM THE REST OF THE BODY WHICH CAUSED IT TO HIT AGAINST THE INSIDE PLASTIC . THIS SHOULD BE REPAIRED BY FORD AS THE REST OF THE VEHICLE IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION . I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER FORD IF THEY CAN'T RECALL THIS MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD. *TR

Mileage: 177,000

MY SON NOTICED THAT SOUND INSULATION IN THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WAS GONE AND THE WHEEL WELL WAS SEVERLY RUSTED TO THE POINT THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT WAS CLOSE TO SEPARATING FROM THE BODY. I CHECKED WITH A THE BODY SHOP OF A LOCAL FORD DEALER WHO SAID HE HAS SEEN AND REPAIRED A TON OF 2005 ESCAPES. HE HASN'T SEEN THIS SPECIFIC PROBLEM WITH OTHER MODEL YEARS (E.G. 2001 - 2004. DIDN'T ASK ABOUT 2006 OR 2007 MODEL YEARS). THE FORD BODY SHOP PERSON SAID THE SOUND INSULATION/UNDERCOATING HELD IN MOISTURE AND THAT IS WHY THE AREA IS SO BADLY RUSTED. THE BODY SHOP OF A FORD DEALER BOWLING GREEN, OH SAID THE REPAIR WOULD BE $1,200 - $1,400.00 AND WILL TAKE THREE DAYS. I CALLED A FORD DEALER ON THE WEST SIDE OF CLEVELAND WHO CONFIRMED THE AMOUNT AND LENGTH OF TIME. *JS

Mileage: 90,000

THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER WHEELHOUSE PANEL IS TOTALLY CORRODED. THE 'PANEL' HOLDING THE REAR RIGHT SUSPENSION CRACKED, NOTHING HOLDING THE SUSPENSION. I HAVE SEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS IN THE WEBSITE. THIS SHOULD BE TREATED AS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT AS IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM IN WHICH THE FORD WINDSTAR WAS RECALLED FOR. *TR

WHILE DRIVING OVER RAIL ROAD TRACKS A LOUD THUD WAS HEARD IN THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THE FIRST ASSUMPTION WAS THE TIRE BLEW, BUT UPON INSPECTION THE TIRE WAS FINE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN FOR A FEW MORE DAYS AND THE THUD WOULD CONTINUE TO BE HEARD GETTING WORSE AND WORSE, ESPECIALLY WHEN HITTING BUMPS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A GOODYEAR AUTO SERVICE CENTER WHERE I WAS INFORMED THAT THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WAS SEVERELY RUSTED AND THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT HAD SEPARATED FROM THE BODY. THE THUMPING WE HEARD WAS THE CHUNK OF METAL AND SHOCK MOUNT THAT WAS SEPARATED FROM THE BODY BUT STILL ATTACHED TO THE TOP OF THE SHOCK HITTING THE REST OF THE WHEEL WELL THAT WAS STILL THERE. THE SERVICE TECH TOLD ME THAT HE WAS VERY SURPRISED THAT THIS AREA OF THE CAR WAS RUSTED SO BADLY AND IT APPEARED THAT IT WASN'T UNDERCOATED PROPERLY TO PREVENT THE RUST. THE SERVICE TECH INFORMED ME HE COULDN'T FIX IT AND RECOMMENDED A WELDING SHOP (FRIESS WELDING). THE WELDING SHOP WAS ABLE TO CUT OUT THE RUSTED WHEEL WELL (THEY REFERRED TO IT AS A FENDER WELL, I DON'T KNOW IF THERE IS A DIFFERENCE IN THE NAME), REPAIR THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT, PUT ON A NEW SHOCK (THE OLD SHOCK WAS BENT TO BADLY FROM WHEN IT SEPARATED FROM THE CAR), AND PROPERLY UNDERCOAT IT. THEY INFORMED ME THAT THIS WAS COMMON ON 05 AND 06 FORD ESCAPES AND THEY HAD REPAIRED QUITE A FEW FOR THE SAME THING. THEY ALSO INFORMED ME THAT FORD RECENTLY HAD A RECALL FOR 01-04 FORD ESCAPES FOR A SIMILAR ISSUE ONLY ON THE FRONT OF THE CAR. THEY THOUGHT THAT FORD SHOULD DO A RECALL ON 05-06 FOR THE BACK. I DON'T KNOW IF THIS WILL HELP TO HAVE A RECALL DONE BUT WHAT THE WELDING SHOP WAS TELLING ME SEEMS TO BE TRUE AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET. I WILL KEEP ALL OF MY RECEIPTS AND THE PICTURES THAT I TOOK AND HOPE A RECALL IS EVENTUALLY DONE. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Mileage: 84,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEELHOUSE RUSTED OUT BREAKING THE REAR SHOCK MOUNT CAUSING STEERING ISSUES . THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH FORD FOR THIS MODEL YEAR. THE WHEELHOUSE IS SIMPLE SHEET METAL THAT RUSTED OUT, THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS NO REINFORCEMENT AND IS SIMPLY ATTACHED TO A CUP IN THE WHEEL WELL. WHEN IT GAVE FREE THE VEHICLE SWERVED TO THE RIGHT. *TR

Mileage: 165,000

THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH, FREEING THE SHOCK MOUNT. VEHICLE HAS JUST OVER 100000 MILES AND IS NOT ABLE TO BE DRIVEN IN ITS CURRENT CONDITION. *TR

Mileage: 100,500

WHILE DRIVING ON MAIN ROAD HIT SOME UNEVEN ROAD REPAIRS AND STARTED TO HEAR A METAL ON METAL SOUND. I THOUGHT IT WAS THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR SO STOPPED TO CHECK BUT IT WAS LOCKED. DROVE HOME AND NOISE SEEMED TO GET PROGRESSIVELY WORSE. I STARTED TO CHECK SHOCKS AND TIRES AND SAW A CRACK IN THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL THROUGH THE RUST PROOFING.I MOVED IT AWAY FROM THE FENDER AND SAW A HOLE INTO THE SIDE OF MY CAR BY THE TOP OF THE SHOCK. I TOOK IT TO A BODY SHOP AND WAS TOLD THIS IS AN ISSUE WITH FORD ESCAPE AND THE REPAIR IS EXPENSIVE. I WILL BE CONTACTING A DEALER FOR HELP AND PARTS IF THEY ARE AVAILABLE. *TR

Mileage: 100,000

I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE DOWN A RURAL ROAD AT ABOUT 35 MPH AND HIT A POT HOLE IN THE ROAD. UPON INSPECTION AFTER THE INCIDENT, MY HUSBAND NOTICED THE REAR STRUT MOUNT FOR THE SHOCK ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HAD BECOME DETACHED. THERE WAS SOME RUST PRESENT IN THAT WHEEL WELL AROUND THE STRUT HOUSING. THE SUPPORTING METAL CRACKED THE ENTIRE WAY AROUND THE STRUT HOUSING, DETACHING IT FROM THE REST OF THE VEHICLE. THE OPPOSITE WHEEL WELL AND STRUT MOUNT ARE IN PERFECT CONDITION WITH THE FACTORY UNDERCOATING STILL IN TACT. THERE IS NO UNDERCOATING PRESENT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IN THE SAME AREA. WE WERE TOLD BY A MECHANIC AND AUTO BODY SPECIALIST THAT THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND IS ONLY COSMETICALLY REPAIRABLE, NOT STRUCTURALLY REPAIRABLE. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

REAR STRUT ASSEMBLY AT FRAME ATTACHMENT RUSTED THROUGH AND BUSTED INTO REAR STORAGE AREA. FRAME COMPLETELY DISINTEGRATED. *TR

Mileage: 144,590

I HAPPENED TO NOTICE RUST THROUGH WHILE CHECKING MY TIRES. IT IS LOCATED AT THE RIGHT (PASSENGER SIDE) REAR WHEELHOUSE PANEL WHERE THE STRUT ASSEMBLY ATTACHES TO THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE RUST HAS DISINTEGRATED IN THE AREA LEAVING A BARELY ATTACHED WHEEL ASSEMBLY WITH MASSIVE CRACKING AND HOLES IN THE METAL. IT IS THE ONLY AREA ON THE VEHICLE WITH RUST. I WAS TOLD IT CANNOT BE REPAIRED AND THAT I HAVE LESS THAN 6 MONTHS OF DRIVING BEFORE IT WILL BREAK COMPLETELY, THUS DISABLING MY VEHICLE OR CAUSING IT TO CRASH WHILE BEING DRIVEN. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT FURTHER, ESPECIALLY WITH MY 3 YEAR OLD SON IN THE VEHICLE. I AM DISTURBED WITH THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE WHO OWN THIS WONDERFUL SUV FROM A FINE COMPANY LIKE FORD AND THE ONLY THING STOPPING THEM FROM DRIVING IT IS A SINGLE PANEL WITH SUCH A SEVERE DEFECT. I AM FULLY PREPARED TO JOIN OR LEAD A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT AGAINST FORD FOR THIS PROBLEM. *JS

Mileage: 172,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK ABSORBER BECAME DETACHED. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE FRAME WAS PERFORATED DUE TO RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED OUT AND IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *JS

Mileage: 140,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE INNER WHEEL LINER COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. UPPER END OF SHOCK NO LONGER ATTACHED TO BODY OF VEHICLE. *JS

Mileage: 84,000

CPSC: I1440372A. 2005 FORD ESCAPE. CONSUMER STATED THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL ROTTING OUT CAUSED THE SHOCK MOUNTS TO DISINTEGRATE. *LN THE CONSUMER STATED THE PRICE ESTIMATES TO CORRECT THE DEFECT RANGED FROM $2000-7000. *JB

RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER UPPER MOUNT DETACHED FROM THE WHEEL WELL BECAUSE OF EXTREME CORROSION AND PERFORATION OF WHEEL WELL SHEET METAL. *TR

Mileage: 83,175

RIGHT REAR INNER FENDER WELL RUSTED COMPLETELY THOUGH ALLOWING THE SHOCK MOUNT TO TEAR AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 130,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR SHOCK MOUNT BECAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE DUE TO RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS CONFIRMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

REAR WHEEL HOUSE/ STRUT MOUNT TOTALLY RUSTED OFF. I WORK AT A DEALERSHIP AND I HAVE NOTICED A LOT OF ESCAPES WITH THE SAME ISSUE. WE SEE APPROX 5 OF THESE A YEAR OVER THE PAST 3 YEARS. THAT ISN'T COUNTING THE ONES WE CAN'T VISUALLY INSPECT DIE TO THE THICK TAR FORD SPRAYED ON THE WHEEL WELL TO DEADEN SOUND AND PREVENT CORROSION. *TR

Mileage: 100,000

THE ENTIRE SHOCK TOWER ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE HAD RUSTED OUT. THE SHOCK HAS NOTHING TO HOLD ON TO. I AM TOLD THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. ON LINE THERE ARE A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I THINK THIS WIDESPREAD PROBLEM SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED IMMEDIATELY.

Mileage: 101,000

WE WERE DRIVING THE CAR AND NOTICED A BANGING NOISE IN THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL. WE TOOK IT TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP AND THEY DISCOVERED THAT THE METAL IN THE WHEEL WELL IS ROTTING AWAY. THE SHOCK MOUNT CAME LOOSE AND UPON FURTHER REVIEW THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL IS BAD. THE SHOP TELLS ME THEY'VE SEEN MANY SIMILAR ISSUES IN THE 04-06 ESCAPES. OURS IS IN BAD SHAPE AND NOT WORTH THE $5000 IT WOULD TAKE TO REPAIR. THERE IS VERY LITTLE SURFACE RUST ANYWHERE ELSE ON THE VEHICLE AND THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS ARE IN GOOD SHAPE. IN LOOKING AROUND I'VE SEEN MANY SIMILAR COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE SAME ISSUE WITH THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. WHY HASN'T THERE BEEN A RECALL. IT'S CRIMINAL THAT THESE VEHICLES ALL HAVE THE SAME ISSUE AND INSTEAD OF STEPPING UP AND DOING THE RIGHT THING, FORD IGNORES IT AND ALL OF US OWNER'S ARE OUT A LOT OF MONEY THROUGH NO FAULT OF OUR OWN. *JS

Mileage: 140,000

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL IS SEVERELY RUSTED AND SHOCK IS NO LONGER ATTACHED. YOU CAN SEE THE INTERIOR OF VEHICLE FROM REAR FENDER WELL. FRAME IS ALSO BEGINNING TO CRACK IN THIS AREA TOO. AT THIS POINT THE VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM FOR MANY OTHERS WITH THIS SAME MAKE AND YEAR. WHAT DOES IT TAKE FOR FORD TO REALIZE THIS IS A DEFECT. SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET HURT OR EVEN A LOSS OF LIFE IF NOTHING IS DONE. NOW I HAVE A VEHICLE THAT WAS DRIVEN DAILY SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY BECAUSE IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *JS

VEHICLE WAS MAKING A LOUD NOISE EVERYTIME YOU HIT A BUMP. WHEN INVESTIGATED FOUND THAT RIGHT BACK WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED SO BAD THAT SHOCK HAD COME TOTALLY LOOSE. DID INVESTIGATION AND FOUND OUT THAT OTHER OWNERS HAVE HAD THE VERY SAME PROBLEM. WONDERING IF OTHERS HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM IN THE EXACT SAME PLACE WHY HAVE THESE MODELS NOT BEEN RECALLED? DEFINATELY A SAFETY ISSUE. *JS

Mileage: 129,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS SEVERELY RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL WELL WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS SCHEDULED FOR FURTHER INSPECTION AND REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Mileage: 100,000

THE VEHICLE IS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE A LOUD CLUNKING SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. A RATTLING NOISE COULD THEN BE HEARD WITH EVERY SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A GARAGE WHERE THEY FOUND THAT THE WHOLE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH EXPOSING THE SHOCKS AND STRUTS, THE CARPETING CAN ALSO BE SEEN THROUGH THE HOLE, AND WATER IN THE TAILLIGHT COMPARTMENT BECAUSE OF A HOLE THERE ALSO - THUS LEAVING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE AND UNDRIVABLE. TOOK VEHICLE TO AN AUTO BODY SHOP AND THE ESTIMATE TO FIX THE CAR WAS $3200.00. CALLED FORD MOTORS WHO INFORMED ME THAT THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM, BUT ONLY FOR 2001-2004 MODELS. APPARENTLY FROM ALL OF THE COMPLAINTS THAT CAN BE FOUND ON THE INTERNET IN REGARDS TO THE 2005 MODELS WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM, THE 2005 MODELS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I WILL DEFINITELY NOT BE BUYING ANOTHER FORD MOTORS VEHICLE ANYTIME SOON! *TR

Mileage: 82,103

MY WIFE HAD BEEN COMPLAINING ABOUT A LOUD SLAPPING COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT FOR A DRIVE. I DISCOVERED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK ABSORBER WAS JUST BOUNCING LOOSE CREATING A HORRIBLE NOISE AND ALSO NOTICED SHOCK BREAKING THRU THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. NOTICED ON LINE THAT OTHERS HAVE SIMILAR OR EXACT PROBLEM. YEARS 2001 THRU 2004 JUST RECALLED. WHAT ABOUT 2005'S. THERE'S NOTHING ELSE WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE AND ONLY 82,000 MILES. VERY DISAPPOINTED AND PUTS MY FAMILY AT RISK AND IN A BIND FOR A SAFE VEHICLE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 82,000

THE REAR END RUSTED OUT ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH ONLY 120000MILES ON IT. SENT PICTURES TO FORD THEY SAID BY HAVE NOT SEEN THIS ISSUE IN THE PAST. *TR

Mileage: 135,000

I NOTICED THE SMELL OF EXHAUST FUMES IN THE VEHICLE AND A FEW WEEKS LATER HEARD LOAD BANGING NOISE COMING FROM REAR CARGO AREA. I LOOK AND SAW THE REAR WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED THREW INTO THE CARGO AREA AND THE REAR SHOCK MOUNTS WERE RUSTED OFF. *TR

WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH ON UNEVEN PAVEMENT, I NOTICED BANGING IN THE RIGHT REAR AREA OF THE VEHICLE. ALL DOORS AND HATCH WERE SECURE AND THE JACK WASNT LOOSE. AFTER A DAY OR TWO OF SEARCHING I TOOK THE ESCAPE TO A LOCAL AUTO REPAIR SHOP I TRUST. THEY FOUND THE WHOLE INNER QUARTER WHEEL HOUSE SNAPPED OFF THE RAIL. THE BANGING WAS THE SHOCK HITTING INSIDE THE PASSENGER CABIN. HE IMMEDIATELY TOOK MY KEYS AND SAID THE CAR IS UNDRIVABLE. ONLINE IF YOU GOOGLE THIS SAME ISSUE IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 2005 ESCAPE MODEL RUSTING PLEASE FORD DO THE RIGHT THING AND RECALL AND REPAIR MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. *TR

Mileage: 120,000

WHILE PERFORMING BRAKE AND WHEEL INSPECTION FOR NOISE WE SEE SEVERE SUB-FRAME RUST ISSUE ON OUR 2005 FORD ESCAPE XLT. PLEASE ADVISE. *TR

Mileage: 90,000

DRIVING ALONG AND A LOAD BANG SOUNDED FROM RIGHT PASSENGER REAR. SHOCK HOUSING RUSTED THROUGH AND SHOCK BROKE LOOSE. THE BANGING SOUND IS VERY LOAD INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND SOUNDS AS IF THE REAR PASSENGER AREA IS JUST GOING TO FALL APART! IT IS RUSTED THROUGH AND IT SHOULDN'T BE IF IT WAS UNDERCOATED PROPERLY. FORD SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND MAKE THE REPAIRS! I CARRY MY GRANDCHILDREN IN THIS VEHICLE AND AM NOT IN A POSITION TO REPLACE IT! *TR

Mileage: 110

THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER RUSTED THROUGH THE WHEEL WELL INTO THE REAR COMPARTMENT BREAKING A HOLE THROUGH THE INTERIOR COMPARTMENT. THERE IS CURRENTLY NO PARTS IN STOCK TO REPAIR THIS AS WE ARE TOLD THEY ARE ON NATIONWIDE BACKORDER AND THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. THE OTHER REAR SHOCK AREA HAS A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF RUST ALSO. APPROXIMATELY 1 WEEK LATER BOTH BREAK LINES BROKE FROM SEVERE CORROSION WHILE MOVING AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH (PULLING IN MY DRIVEWAY). I WAS FORTUNATE THIS HAPPENED THERE AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY AS I COULD HAVE BEEN IN A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT ALONG WITH MY 3 YEAR OLD SON. THESE TWO THINGS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING WITH THE AGE OF THIS VEHICLE. THE BODY SHOULD BE HOLDING UP BETTER THAN THIS. I JUST SAW THERE WAS A RECALL FOR MODEL YEARS 2001-2004 FOR SEVERE RUST ISSUES ONE RESULTING IN A CRASH. THE MANUFACTURING DATE OF MY VEHICLE IS 09/2004. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT CAME APART AND DAMAGED WHEEL WELL. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION DEALER SAID ENTIRE ASSEMBLY HAD RUSTED APART FROM THE INSIDE OUT WITH NO VISIBLE CORROSION FROM THE OUTSIDE OF VEHICLE. FORD MOTOR COMPANY WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO RECOURSE OR REPAIR. *TR

Mileage: 83,000

I WAS DRIVING AND I HEARD THIS LOUD BANGING. I LOOKED AT MY WHEEL WELL AND IT WAS ALL RUSTED OUT AND MY SHOCK IS COMING UP NOW THROUGH MY REAR PANEL. I HAVE LOOKED AT ALL THE WHEEL WELLS AND THE OTHER ARE NOT RUSTED AT ALL BUT THIS ONE IS. IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE IT NOW BECAUSE WHEN UP TO SPEED AND YOU HIT A BUMP THE ALL REAR END PULLS SOMETIMES ALMOST INTO ANOTHER LANE. *TR

Mileage: 117,000

THE LEFT REAR SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED AND PUSHED UP INTO THE INSIDE REAR CARGO AREA. GAS FILLER TUBE MOUNT BROKE ALSO. *TR

THE REAR PASSENGER SHOCK TOWER ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE IS RUSTED THROUGH. MY SHOCK IS RATTLING AROUND, BOUND TO MAKE IT'S WAY INTO THE INTERIOR OF MY CAR. *TR

Mileage: 95,189

RIGHT REAR WHEEL HOUSE IS RUSTED SO BAD THE SHOCK IS ABOUT TO COME LOOSE AND CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL OR COULD RUB THE TIRE AND CAUSE IT TO RUPTURE. I HAVE BEEN ADVISED BY A MECHANIC THAT IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 128,000

THE RIGHT REAR BODY PANEL IN THE WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING THE TOP OF THE SHOCK TO DETACH FROM THE BODY AND ALMOST PENETRATE INTO THE INSIDE OF THE PASSENGER CABIN. *TR

Mileage: 179,000

THE RIGHT PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT. NOTICED A THUMPING SOUND DRIVING AT 35MPH. TOOK EVERYTHING OUT OF THE BACK AND TESTED FURTHER. STILL NOTICED THE SOUND AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AND ROAD CONDITIONS. A FEW DAYS LATER NOTICED THE REAR WHEEL RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK HAD DETACHED. STOPPED AT LIBERTY FORD, BRUNSWICK, OH AND THEY DID NOT EVEN EXAMINE IT. SERVICE AREA SAID THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS. CALLED GANLEY FORD WEST CLEVELAND, OH AND THEY REPORTED THIS IS BECOMING A PROBLEM. REFERRED ME TO THEIR BODY SHOP. APPROX COST $1,200. CALLED SOME OTHER SHOPS LOCALLY AND WAS ADVISED "TRADE IT, NOT WORTH FIXING, OR $2,500." WAS ABLE TO GET REPAIRED FOR $435 AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH. *TR

Mileage: 143,000

ORIGINAL OWNER OF A GARAGE KEPT, 2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH 105K MILES. I NOTICED A LOUD BANGING SOUND COMING FROM THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL WHICH WAS VERY LOUD INSIDE THE CAR. I HAD THE SERVICE TECH REPLACING THE TIRES ON MY OTHER FORD VEHICLE TAKE A LOOK AND HE SAID THE WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTING AWAY AND THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS FALLING AWAY FROM THE FRAME OF THE CAR. THIS IS A SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS HAZARD WHICH NEEDS TO BE FIXED ASAP. EVERY SERVICE TECH I SHOW SAYS THEY'VE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT. THE UNDERCOATING WAS SPRAYED DIRECTLY ON TO THE VEHICLE AND NO OTHER METHOD OF PROTECTION IN THE WHEEL WELL WAS USED BY FORD ON THIS MAKE/MODEL. MY VEHICLE WAS TOP OF THE LINE, LOADED, WHEN PURCHASED. I'M CONCERNED FOR THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY AND MYSELF. FORD NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM ASAP AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE POOR DESIGN. *TR

Mileage: 105,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, A SUDDEN BANG WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR WHEEL HOUSING PANEL WAS PERFORATED DUE TO RUST AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 86,000.

Mileage: 86,000

WHILE DRIVING BEGIN TO EXPERIENCE A LOUD RATTLING SOUND, FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. BECAME VERY LOUD WITH THE MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE. SOUNDED AS IF SMALL PIECES HAD FALLEN OFF THE BACK TIRE. AS SOON AS I GOT HOME I LOOKED AND THERE WAS A LARGE RUSTED OUT TEAR IN THE WHEEL WELL, LOCATED RIGHT ABOVE THE MOUNT FOR THE SHOCK ABSORBER. I DID CONTACT MY SERVICE ADVISOR AT VILLAGE FORD IN DEARBORN MICHIGAN. I TOOK THE VEHICLE UP TO BE CHECKED, HE SENT ME OVER TO THEIR BODY SHOP.. I WAS TOLD THIS WAS DEFINITELY A "SAFETY ISSUE" AND HE HAD SEEN THIS BEFORE ON OTHER FORD ESCAPES. THIS IS A FLAW IN THE BODY. *TR

Mileage: 191,930

THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL HAS EXCESSIVE RUST WHICH HAS CAUSED THE SHOCK TO COME THROUGH THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND IT APPEARS THAT OTHERS WITH THE SAME MODEL HAVE HAD THE SAME ISSUE. I DO HAVE PICTURES. *TR

Mileage: 73,000

I WAS HEARING A BAD CLUNKING NOISE FROM THE BACK SO I TOOK IT TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND HE LOOKED AND SAID HE HAS NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT MY ENTIRE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED THROUGH - HE WONT EVEN TOUCH IT - HE SAID IT IS EXTREMELY UNSAFE AND TOLD ME ITS GOTTA BE A RECALL BEING THAT ITS AN 05 BECAUSE VEHICLES AREN'T MADE TO RUST LIKE THAT - SO I CALL FORD AND THEY SAY "NOTHING WE CAN DO FOR YOU AND YOUR COMPLAINT HAS BEEN NOTED" WELL IM ON DISABILITY WITH CHILDREN SO I CANT AFFORD THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN REPAIRS NOR CAN I GO WITHOUT A VEHICLE OR DRIVE MY KIDS IN AN UNSAFE VEHICLE, I JUST LOST MY HUSBAND AND I JUST DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO - FORD REP DIDN'T EVEN GIVE ME A GLIMPSE OF CARE - DOES SOMEONE HAVE TO DIE IN ONE OF THEIR POORLY CONSTRUCTED VEHICLES BEFORE ANYONE WILL DO ANYTHING - COME ON BACK UP YOUR PRODUCTS - AND THEN PEOPLE WONDER WHY PEOPLE BUY FOREIGN. *TR

Mileage: 129,085

AS I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK I STARTED HEARING A THUMPING SOUND FROM THE RIGHT REAR WHEN I WOULD HIT A BUMP AT FIRST I THOUGHT MAYBE THE BACK DOOR WASN'T CLOSED ALL THE WAY, SO WHEN I GOT HOME AND PARKED MY VEHICLE I CHECKED THE DOOR AND IT WAS CLOSED ALL THE WAY. AFTER I SAW THE DOOR WAS CLOSED ALL THE WAY I DECIDED TO LOOK AT THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL SINCE THAT IS WHERE THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM. WHEN I LOOKED INTO THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL THAT IS WHEN I DISCOVERED THAT IT HAD RUSTED OUT AND I COULD SEE THAT THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT IS ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY, SO NOW I HAVE TO LEAVE IT SIT UNTIL I CAN AFFORD TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. AFTER MY DISCOVERY I WENT ONLINE AND SEARCHED AND I FOUND OUT THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT IF THIS MATTER WAS INVESTIGATED AND A RECALL IS ISSUED, SINCE THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

Mileage: 116,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, A SUDDEN BANGING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE REAR WHEEL HOUSING PANEL WAS PERFORATED DUE TO RUST AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 165,000.

Mileage: 165,000

THE RIGHT/PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL HAS BECOME SO CORRODED WITH RUST THAT THE SHOCK HAS COME FREE FROM THE METAL, AND SLAMMING HARD. THE STATE OF THE METAL REMINDS ME OF A BUTTERFINGER CANDY BAR, THAT FLAKES OFF IN LAYERS. I HAVE READ MANY REPORTS IN THE LAST COUPLE DAYS ABOUT SIMILAR SITUATIONS AS THIS, ALL WITH THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THE LEFT/DRIVER REAR SIDE HAS NO SIMILAR RUSTING, NOR DO THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS (AS FAR AS I CAN SEE/TELL). THE UNDERCOATING HAS BEEN HIDING THE RUST APPARENTLY, AND IT HAS BEEN FLAKING OFF HEAVILY IN THE LAST COUPLE OF WEEKS. *TR

Mileage: 130,500

DRIVING UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS, HEARD A LOUD BANGING SOUND.WAS GETTING WORSE AND LOOKED AT REAR PASSENGER TIRE SIDE. NOTICED THE ENTIRE SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED AND BROKEN LOOSE FROM UNDERCARRIAGE. VERY DANGEROUS IF TRAVELING AT HIGHER SPEED. HAVE OWNED OVER 20 CARS AND NEVER HAD THIS HAPPEN. WHAT IS GOING ON FORD???? *TR

Mileage: 89,901

I HEARD A SOUND IN THE REAR WHICH WAS LIKE THE METAL TOUCHING. MY BOYFRIEND SAID IT SOUNDED LIKE THE SHOCKS GOING. I TOOK TO THE GARAGE TO HAVE INSPECTED AND THEY REFUSED TO AND SHOWED ME THE INNER WHEEL WELLS. THEY WERE RUSTED ON BOTH REAR SIDES. THE VEHICLE BODY WAS SEPARATED. I TOOK IT TO AN AUTO BODY REPAIR SHOP AND THEY CAN FIX IT BUT WE CAN'T FIND THE REPAIR PARTS. I PUT THE NUMBERS FOR THE PARTS IN THE FORD.COM AND APPARENTLY THE NUMBERS DO NOT MATCH WHAT THEY HAVE. THIS IS DISAPPOINTING TO ME, I DO NOT HAVE A JOB, DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE, BUT I DO HAVE THE RESOURCES TO GET IT FIXED. I ALSO SENT AN E-MAIL TO FORD BUT HAVEN'T HEARD ANYTHING AS OF YET. THANK YOU *TR

SEVERE RUST OUT OF RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL, TOP OF SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT RUSTED FREE FROM THE CAR. APPEARS TO BE A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION COULD COME DOWN ONTO THE TIRE OR LOOSE CONTROL OF THE REAR OF CAR WHILE DRIVING. AFTER CHECKING ONLINE TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE MAY HAVE A SIMILAR ISSUE I FIND HUNDREDS OF SAME PROBLEMS. WE HAVE MAINTAINED THIS CAR WITH SERVICE AND CLEANING ABOVE AND BEYOND NORMAL AND THIS HAS HAPPENED. I FEEL THIS IS A MANUFACTURE FLAW AND SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR

Mileage: 216,500

DRIVING TO/FROM WORK, I STARTED NOTICING A SLIGHT CREAKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE. AFTER A DAY OR SO, IT BECAME A LOUD THUMPING. UPON INSPECTION, I DISCOVERED THE WHEEL WELL & SHOCK MOUNT WERE DISINTEGRATING AND THE SHOCK WAS NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE. THERE ARE HOLES SO LARGE YOU CAN SEE INTO THE TRUNK. AFTER DOING A LITTLE RESEARCH, I LEARNED THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM YET FORD HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL NOR ARE THEY OFFERING ANY KIND OF REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPAIR. NEEDLESS TO SAY, THIS IS VERY DISAPPOINTING. THIS IS MY FIRST - AND MOST DEFINITELY LAST - FORD. *TR

Mileage: 86,000

IT STARTED OFF AS LIGHT RATTLING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL AREA. AS THE WEEK PROGRESSED, THE RATTLING GOT LOUDER AND LOUDER AND OCCURRED MORE FREQUENTLY. AT THAT POINT, MY DAUGHTER WAS AFRAID TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. WHEN WE INSPECTED THE AREA WHERE THE NOISE CAME FROM, WE NOTICED THAT THE INSIDE OF THE WHEEL WELL WAS THOROUGHLY RUSTED OUT AND WE COULD SEE THROUGH IT, INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. ALSO, THE SHOCK WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE FRAME. THE DAMAGE IS SO EXTENSIVE THAT WE ARE AFRAID TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO A REPAIR SHOP. *TR

Mileage: 142,450

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

Mileage: 93,000

WHILE DRIVING AT MODERATE SPEED ON RESIDENTIAL ROADWAY, A LOUD RATTLING SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL AND REAR TRUNK AREA. AFTER CLOSER INSPECTION OF THE WHEEL WELL IT WAS OBSERVED THAT THE PORTION OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE REAR PASSENGER SHOCK ABSORBER WAS MOUNTED TO THE VEHICLE HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. RATHER THAN BEEN DESIGNED TO MOUNT TO THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE IT APPEARS THAT IT WAS DESIGNED TO ATTACH TO THE SHEET METAL WHEEL WELL. DUE TO THE COMPLETE RUST-THROUGH OF THE WHEEL WELL THE REAR PASSENGER UPPER SHOCK MOUNT HAD BECOME COMPLETELY DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND ANYTIME THE VEHICLE WENT OVER THE SMALLEST BUMP OR CRACK IN THE ROAD, A LOUD BANGING WOULD OCCUR AS THE UNATTACHED SHOCK WOULD IMPACT AGAINST THE VEHICLE WHEEL WELL.

Mileage: 111,000

I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE THAT GOT A SEVERE SHOCK DAMAGE TO THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THERE IS SO MUCH DAMAGE FROM THE RUST, INSIDE THE INSULATION, THAT THE SHOCKS ARE NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE FRAME AND CONTINUALLY RAM INTO THE INTERIOR PANELS. I PURCHASED THIS CAR NEW IN 2005. ALL OTHER WHEEL WELLS ARE IN GREAT CONDITION AS WELL AS THE CAR. THIS IS A CLEAR MANUFACTURER PROBLEM. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. IF THE SHOCK WOULD HAVE CAME OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING AT 60MPH AND HIT THE ROAD OR SOMETHING UNDER THE VEHICLE IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT AND PEOPLE COULD HAVE BEEN INJURED. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ISSUED FOR IT. *TR

Mileage: 195,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, A SUDDEN BANGING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL HOUSING PANEL WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE REAR WHEEL HOUSING PANEL WAS PERFORATED DUE TO RUST AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000.

Mileage: 140,000

I HAVE AN 05 ESCAPE THAT HAS SEVERE RUST DAMAGE TO THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THERE IS SO MUCH DAMAGE FROM THE RUST THAT THE SHOCKS ARE NO LONGER ATTACHED AND CONTINUALLY RAM INTO THE INTERIOR PANELS. ALL OTHER WHEEL WELLS ARE IN GREAT CONDITION. FROM WHAT I HAVE READ THIS IS AN EXTREMELY COMMON PROBLEM (SO MUCH SO THAT THERE IS A FACEBOOK GROUP AND A MESSAGE BOARD ON FORD FORUMS) THE MODELS EFFECTED FORD MODELS 2004-2006. SERIOUS CONSIDERATION SHOULD BE PUT INTO RECALLING THEM. HTTP://WWW.FORDFORUMS.COM/F59/2005-ESCAPE-SHOCK-MOUNT-RUSTED-OUT-177762/ HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/2005-FORD-ESCAPE-2004-2006/397923900236108. *TR

Mileage: 104,000

ON 2/20/14 I WAS TRAVELING 65 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 219 IN BOSTON, NY, WHEN A LOUD BANGING NOISE SUDDENLY BEGAN TO OCCUR IN THE REAR OF MY VEHICLE. THIS NOISE SCARED ME AND FORCED ME TO PULL OVER ON THE SHOULDER OF THE EXPRESSWAY TO INSPECT THE REAR AREA OF MY VEHICLE (WHILE TRAFFIC CONTINUED AT 65 MPH). I COULD NOT SEE ANYTHING AT THAT TIME SO I SLOWLY AND CAUTIOUSLY DROVE MY VEHICLE HOME. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, MY HUSBAND FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR(PASSENGER) SIDE REAR SHOCK HAD BECOME TOTALLY DETACHED FROM THE COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT INNER WHEEL WELL AND WAS PROTRUDING INTO THE INSIDE OF MY VEHICLE. EXCESSIVE RUST COULD BE SEEN ALONG WITH SEVERAL HOLES THAT HAD ONCE BEEN PART OF THE WHEEL WELL. MY VEHICLE IS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN AND IS TOO COSTLY TO FIX. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, I FOUND THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY OWNER OF 2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH THIS ISSUE. THIS NEEDS TO BE A RECALL! FORTUNATELY, THIS DEFECT DID NOT CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT BECAUSE THIS IS AN INTEGRAL COMPONENT OF MY VEHICLES SUSPENSION. THIS 'DEFECT' NEEDS TO BE RECTIFIED BEFORE SOMEONE DIES OR BECOMES SERIOUSLY INJURED. *TR

Mileage: 82,054

ENTIRE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT AND DISINTEGRATED. SECTION IS GONE AND SHOCK CAME THROUGH THE INTERIOR. *TR

Mileage: 92,000

NOTICED A RATTLING SOUND ON THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE. UPON INSPECTION, FOUND MOST OF THE REAR WHEEL WELL WHERE THE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTS TO BE RUSTED, AND PARTS OF THE METAL ACTUALLY GONE. THE TOP OF THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK IS BASICALLY NOT ATTACHED TO ANY STRUCTURE, AS THE METAL AROUND THE MOUNT HAS COMPLETED RUSTED. COULD SEE THE BACKSIDE OF THE VEHICLE INTERIOR WHERE THE METAL HAS RUSTED AWAY. *TR

Mileage: 123,000

NOTICED A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WHILE TRAVELING ON A RURAL ROAD ABOUT 50 MPH. WHEN ARRIVED AT DESTINATION, NOTICED SEVERE RUST IN WHEEL WELL NEAR SHOCK MOUNT AND THROUGH TO STORAGE COMPARTMENT. ONLINE RESEARCH INDICATES THAT THIS PROBLEM IS COMMON AND THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT NOT DOING ANYTHING FOR OWNERS YET. *TR

I WENT TO FORD FOR SERVICE, AND THEY FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER WHERE MOUNTED TO WHEELHOUSE WAS ROTTED AWAY. ONLY RUSTED ON RIGHT SIDE. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS IF THE PART LETS LOOSE, THE CAR BODY WILL SAG AND A CRASH WILL OCCUR. I HAVE TAKEN TO BODY SHOP AND THE COST IS ESTIMATED TO BE $1500 OR BETTER. THERE ARE NO RE-CALLS ON THIS SAFETY ISSUE, AND CALLS TO FORD ARE ANSWERED "SORRY THERE IS NOTHING WE CAN DO". THEY SEEM TO NOT GIVE A CARE IF PEOPLE ARE INJURED AND MAIMED FROM THIS FLAW IN MANUFACTURE. THE BODY SHOP TOLD ME TODAY THAT THE WHEELHOUSE PART IS ON NATIONAL BACKORDER, AND THAT THERE ARE 500+ ORDERS WAITING FOR THESE PARTS. FORD NOTES THAT THEIR SUPPLIER IS WAITING FOR PARTS TO MANUFACTURE THESE REPLACEMENT PARTS. MY CAR IS SEVERE AND CAN'T BE OPERATED. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO NEXT. GUESS THE FIRST THING IS FINDING SOMEONE WHO CARES. I ALSO THINK THAT THIS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BEFORE A SERIOUS CRASH OCCURS. I HAVE BEEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT FOR 30+ YEARS AND WOULD LIKE TO DO SOMETHING QUICK TO SAVE LIVES AND INJURY. PLEASE ADVISE IF YOU CAN HELP. *TR

Mileage: 101,000

THIS IS FOR A FORD 2005 ESCAPE. THE SUV'S PASSENGER REAR SHOCK WHERE ATTACHED TO THE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED. THE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT AROUND THE THE AREA THAT THE SHOCK ATTACHES TO. IN READING THE FORD FORUM, THERE ARE A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS YEAR FORD ESCAPE. I HAVE ALSO CONTACTED FORD ON THIS AND THEY DO NOT SEE ANY ISSUES. *TR

Mileage: 120,000

I HAD BEEN HEARING RATTLING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS. ON AROUND JANUARY 28TH I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AND HEARD A LOUD NOISE. I LATER DISCOVERED A LARGE CRACK AND HOLE ON THE INSIDE PASSENGER PANEL. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION I DISCOVERED THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL HAD A WHOLE SECTION MISSING AND THE SHOCK I CAN MOVE WITH MY HAND. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ONLINE I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT SEVERAL 2004/2005 ESCAPES HAVE HAD THE SAME ISSUE. THIS IS CLEARLY A DEFECT. IT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND A RECALL NEEDS TO BE DONE. *TR

Mileage: 160,000

LIKE MANY OTHERS, THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT SO SIGNIFICANTLY THAT THE STRUT MOUNT IS ALMOST COMPLETELY DETACHED. THIS IS VERY UNSAFE AND DIFFICULT TO DETECT UNTIL IT'S TOO LATE. IT'S OBVIOUS FROM SPEAKING WITH BODY SHOPS AND FORD REPS THAT THIS IS A WELL KNOWN ISSUE. I CAN'T REITERATE ENOUGH THAT THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE OF 1) THE SUSPENSION CAN COLLAPSE ONTO THE TIRE AND 2) IT'S DIFFICULT TO IDENTIFY UNTIL THE STRUT MOUNT COLLAPSES. *TR

Mileage: 115,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, A SUDDEN BANGING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL HOUSING PANEL WAS RUSTED AND CAUSED THE SHOCK ABSORBER TO BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER BUT NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000. UUPDATED 07/08/14 MA

Mileage: 77,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR PANEL WHEN THE SHOCK ATTACHES TO THE UNDER PART HAS COMPLETELY RUSHED AWAY. WE WERE TOLD THAT THERE IS OVER THOUSANDS OF VEHICLE THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED. WE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE FORD COLLISION SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAVE NOT EVEN STARTED TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS, HE STARTED THAT HE HAS SEEN SEVERAL VEHICLE COME INTO THE SHOP THAT ARE FORD ESCAPE THAT THE WHOLE BACK UNDER SUSPENSION HAS COMPLETELY RUSHED OUT. *TR

Mileage: 160,000

THIS IS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM REPORTED BY HUNDREDS OF OTHER PEOPLE ON FACEBOOK, FORD FORUMS, THIS AGENCIES OWN WEBSITE ETC. THE REAR RIGHT INNER WHEEL WELL HAS TOTALLY DISINTEGRATED LEAVING THE TOP OF THE SHOCK ABSORBER UNCONNECTED TO ANYTHING. FORD HAVE NOT CARRIED OUT A RECALL FOR THIS DANGEROUS SITUATION THOUGH APPARENTLY THE PARTS INVOLVED WERE MODIFIED ON NEWER VEHICLES TO PREVENT THIS HAPPENING. THE PROBLEM APPEARS WORSE IN NORTHERN STATES WITH BAD WINTERS WHERE SALTY WATER BECOMES TRAPPED INSIDE THE WATERPROOFING SEALANT AND THE WHEEL WELL ACCELERATING THE RUSTING PROCESS. UPDATED 04/16/14

Mileage: 128,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, A LOUD NOISE EMITTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC, WHO ADVISED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WAS CORRODED. AS A RESULT, THE HOUSING AND REAR SHOCKS WERE CORRODED AND SEPARATED FROM THE WHEEL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 132,000.

Mileage: 132,000

I AM HERE TO WRITE AN INCIDENT ABOUT MY MY RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION BREAKING AWAY FROM THE STRUT TOWER SUPPORT BRACKET. IT WAS ALL RUSTED OUT. THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CAR IS FINE. I HAVE SEEN QUITE A LOT OF THESE SAME PROBLEMS ON THE INTERNET. WHEN WE TOOK OUR CAR IN TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP THEY CALLED IT A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE. CAR WAS UNSAFE TOO DRIVE. WE FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN FOR OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE AND, THE PUBLIC. *TR

Mileage: 158,000

I OWN A 2005 FORD ESCAPE 87,00 MILES, GARAGE KEPT. I BOUGHT IT NEW FROM THE FORD DEALER. SO I HEAR A LOUD BANGING NOISE AND TAKE IT INTO A SHOP TO GET CHECKED OUT. SHOP CALLS ME IN AWE? HE SAID THAT RIGHT SIDE INTER FENDER WHEEL WELL AND SHOCK TOWER HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY AND IS NO LONGER CONNECTED TO THE VEHICLE?HE ALSO SAID YOU CAN SEE TO THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. HE SAID IN ALL HIS YEARS, HES NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT. HE SAID THAT A 1990 CAR SHOULD NOT HAVE THIS DAMAGE. SO I START TO GOOGLE AND LOW AND BEHOLD HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME THING. IT SEEMS TO BE A MAJOR ISSUE WITH 2004, 2005 AND SOME 2006 FORD ESCAPE MODELS AND FORD WILL NOT RECALL OR MAKE GOOD ON THEIR POOR CRAFTSMANSHIP. I CONTACTED THE DEALER WHERE I BOUGHT MY VEHICLE AND SPOKE TO A REPAIR MANAGER WHO SAID HE WILL CALL ME BACK?SO AFTER A FEW HOURS (HE GOOGLED HIMSELF), HE CALLS AND SAYS TOUGH LUCK?HAVE A NICE DAY. THERE ARE ALL KINDS OF PICTURES ON THE NET THAT LOOK LIKE MY CAR?.I TOOK MY OWN PICTURES BUT THIS IS APPALLING AND FORD NEEDS TO BE HELP ACCOUNTABLE. THIS IS A STRUCTURE PROBLEM AND VERY DANGEROUS. I WILL PROBABLY HAVE A HARD TIME FINDING SOMEONE TO EVEN ATTEMPT TO REPAIR THIS AS THE DON'T WANT THE LIABILITY (ESPECIALLY SEEING I HAVE 2 CAR SEATS IN MY VEHICLE.) *TR

Mileage: 87,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR FENDER WHEEL WELL EXHIBITED EXCESSIVE RUST. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO LOCAL MECHANIC, WHO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE DUE TO THE REAR WHEEL NOT BEING SECURED AND COULD BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.

Mileage: 115,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH OVER A ROAD BUMP, A LOUD RATTLING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR EXTERIOR PASSENGER'S SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR SHOCK WAS COMPLETELY DETACHED AND THE BRAKE LINE HAD RUPTURED. A CERTIFIED MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE SHOCK MOUNT AND WHEEL HOUSE ASSEMBLY WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000.

Mileage: 103,000

REAR PASSENGER SIDE SHOCK TOWER DISCONNECTED TO FRAME. RUSTED OUT FENDERWELL. *TR

Mileage: 110,124

MY WIFE AND I WERE DRIVING DOWN THE STREET AND HIT A BUMP AND HEARD A VERY LOUD NOISE IN THE BACK RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHCILE (RATTLED VERY LOUD). WHEN WE GOT HOME, I CHECKED ALL INSIDE THE CAR, NOTHING WAS LOOSE, I CHECKED UNDER THE CHECK THINKING A SHOCK ABSORBER HAD BROKEN AND NOTICED THE PASSENGER SIDE INNER WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY BROKEN THROUGH. THE FOLLOWING WEEK I TOOK THE CARE TO A BODY SHOP AND THE MAN TOLD ME HE HAD SEEN A LOT OF THIS PROBLEM ON 2005 FORD ESCAPES WHERE THE SHOCK ABSORBER HAD BEEN HITTING ON THE WHEEL WELL UNTIL IT FINALLY BURST THROUGH. HE FURTHER STATED THAT HE HAD ONLY SEEN IT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. HE CHECKED ALL THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS AND THEY ARE FINE.THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED AND WITH NO GUARANTEE OF HOW LONG THAT WILL HOLD. HE SAID TO GET IT FIXED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THERE IS NO RUST ON THE VEHICLE AND THIS IS THE ONLY PROBLEM WE HAVE HAD WITH ANY BODY/SUSPENSION ON THE CAR THAT WE HAVE OWNED SINCE 2006. *TR

Mileage: 104,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR SHOCKS BECAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL HOUSING AND SHOCK MOUNTS NEEDED THE BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 116,000. *TR

Mileage: 116,000

THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE-WELL RUSTED OUT. IT RUSTED WHERE THE SHOCK IS ATTACHED. THIS ENTIRE PIECE RUSTING CAUSED THE SHOCK TO NO LONGER BE ATTACHED TO MY VEHICLE. WE LATER DISCOVER THE ACCELERATED CORROSION WAS FROM FAULTY DRAINS IN THE VEHICLE. FORD ACKNOWLEDGES THE DRAIN PROBLEM BUT WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE EXPEDITED RUSTING. WITH FAULTY DRAINS IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THE OTHER TIRE-WELL ALSO RUSTS OUT. LUCKILY I DISCOVERED THE PROBLEM WHEN I DID, I HAD BEEN PLANNING ON TOWING A UHAUL CROSS-COUNTRY TWO DAYS OUT. IF I HAD BEEN TOWING AND THE SHOCK GAVE OUT, THE MECHANIC AT THE DEALERSHIP SAID MY VEHICLE WOULD HAVE STARTED TO ROLL. *TR

Mileage: 97,000

AFTER SEEING POST FROM FRIEND THAT HER RIGHT REAR WELL ON HER 2005 FORD ESCAPE WAS RUSTED THROUGH, IT MADE ME GO LOOK IN THE GARAGE AT MY SAME VEHICLE. UPON REVIEW I HAVE A LARGE HOLE INTO MY SPARE TIRE TOOLS BOX. THERE IS SIGNIFICANT RUSTING AND CRACKS IN AND AROUND THE SHOCK AS WELL. LEFT REAR WELL DOES NOT SEEM TO HAVE SAME ISSUE. *TR

Mileage: 146,000

LOUD BANGING SOUND FROM RIGHT REAR WHEEL SOUNDING LIKE LOOSE MUFFLER UPON FURTHER INSPECTION I FOUND THE INNER WHEEL WELL WITH THE SHOCK MOUNT TO BE COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. TRYING TO GET IT FIXED AND NO ONE CAN PUT A PRICE ON THE REPAIR AND MOST BODY SHOPS ARE AFRAID TO DO IT. CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE ABOUT THIS VERY UNSAFE PROBLEM AND THEY DON'T WANT NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. *TR

Mileage: 85,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR SHOCKS BECAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE INNER PANEL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 153,000.

Mileage: 153,000

THE REAR SHOCK MOUNT WENT THROUGH RUSTED WHEEL WELL AND INTO TRUNK. *TR

Mileage: 153,527

LOUD THUMPING NOISE OCCURS OVER ANY SIZE BUMP. ON INSPECTION REPAIR SHOP FOUND REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT AND NO MOUNT EXISTING FOR THE SHOCK ABSORBER. NO OTHER WHEEL WELL HAS THIS PROBLEM. DEFINITE DESIGN FLAW THAT COULD LEAD TO LOSS OF CONTROL. *TR

Mileage: 190,000

I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED SOMETHING BANGING IN THE BACK END OF THE TRUCK. I THOUGHT IT AS THE MUFFLER THAT CAME LOOSE. TO MY SURPRISE WHEN I LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE I FOUND THAT THE REAR PASSENGER INNER WHEEL WELL WAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT. THERE WAS ONLY ABOUT AN INCH OF METAL LEFT. I JUST PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ON OCTOBER 15TH OF 2013. I HAVE NEVER SEEN OR HEARD OF SUCH A PROBLEM BEFORE. I DID RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET ONLY TO FIND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SAME PROBLEM. I TRIED ORDERING THE PART FROM A FORD DEALER AND THEY SAY IT IS ON BACK ORDER. I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE PART FROM FORD SO THE MAZDA TRIBUTE IS THE SAME SO I AM ORDERING THE PART FROM THEM. THIS IS MY ONLY VEHICLE SO I HAVE TO HAVE IT RUNNING . I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE SINCE DECEMBER 17TH, 2013. I HAVE TO TAKE IT TO AN AUTOBODY SHOP TO HAVE THIS WORK DONE. I SURELY HOPE THIS PART WORKS BECAUSE IF IT DOESN'T I CAN NOT AFFORD TO BUY ANOTHER VEHICLE. I HAVE CALLED FORD AND THEY SAID THERE ARE NO RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE, AND I ALSO WENT TO THERE RECALL WEBSITE TO CHECK FOR MYSELF AND COULD NOT FIND ANY LISTED. I AM GOING TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY BUT IT IS PROBABLY NOT GOING TO DO ANY GOOD. SOMEONE NEEDS TO FILE CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT AGAINST THEM BUT THEN ONLY THE LAWYERS WIN. PLEASE HELP ME WITH THIS PROBLEM WHICH SEEMS TO BE A REGULAR OCCURRENCE ACCORDING TO ALL THE COMPLAINTS. *TR

Mileage: 153,971

2005 FORD ESCAPE. I HAVE NOTICED RUST ON REAR FENDER WELLS IN THE PAST. IN SUMMER 2013, I FOUND A HOLE INTO THE PASSENGER AREA FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. FILLED HOLE AND ATTEMPTED TO UNDERCOAT TO PREVENT ADDITIONAL RUST. DECEMBER 26, 2013, WHILE DRIVING I HIT A BUMP AND HEARD A LOUD BANGING NOISE IN BACK RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. DRIVING BECAME DIFFICULT AFTER THE BUMP, SO I STOPPED TO INVESTIGATE THE ISSUE. THE SHOCK HAD SEPARATED FROM THE UNI-BODY/WHEEL WELL DUE TO CORROSION. THE NOISE WAS THE SHOCK HITTING THE PLASTIC INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. I DID SOME RESEARCH ON A REPLACEMENT PANEL AND I FOUND THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE FORD ESCAPE WITH NUMEROUS EXAMPLES OF THIS SAME ISSUE. IT APPEARS THAT THE RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL OF THE FORD ESCAPE HAS A DESIGN FLAW CAUSING THE SHOCK TO SEPARATE FROM THE UNI-BODY. DRIVING BECOME DIFFICULT DURING THIS FAILURE AS THE VEHICLE IS RIDING ON THE SPRING AND THE SHOCK IS NOT ABLE TO REDUCE THE TIRE BOUNCE. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER DRIVING OVER A POTHOLE, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWAY AND THE CONTACT HEARD A CRACK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL HOUSE PANEL HAD SEPARATED DUE TO RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 93,000.

Mileage: 93,000

WHEN I OPENED THE REAR HATCH ON MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE I NOTICED THE PLASTIC MOLDING WAS CRACKED, AFTER LOOKING AT IT CLOSER I NOTICED THAT THE WHOLE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT WAS RUSTED OUT ANT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE TOP OF THE WHEEL WELL. I HAVE CONTACTED MANY BODY SHOPS THAT SAY THE PROBLEM IS FIXABLE BUT DO TO LIABILITY THEY CAN NOT FIX IT. AFTER RESEARCHING IT ONLINE ON THE FORD FORUM I FOUND OUT THAT THIS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. ONE POST ON THE FORUM SAYS THAT THE ENGINEERS OF THE ESCAPE SAID IT IS A DESIGN FLAW CAUSING THE PROBLEM BUT THEY WON'T PUT IT IN WRITING FOR FEAR OF LOSING THEIR JOBS. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ISSUED FOR IT. IF THE SHOCK WOULD HAVE CAME OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND HIT THE ROAD OR SOMETHING UNDER THE VEHICLE IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A ACCIDENT. I WOULD TO KNOW WHY THERE IS NO RECALL ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM ? *TR

Mileage: 150,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE...THE RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL HAS RUSTED OUT AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT, READY OR CLOSE TO BREAKING FREE. FIRST BODY SHOP WOULDN'T EVEN QUOTE A REPAIR. GOOGLED ISSUE AND FOUND 100'S OF OTHER OWNERS OF 2005'S WITH SAME CONDITION...PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK MATCHED MY CARS SITUATION EXACTLY. WHY NO RECALL? *TR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, HE NOTICED A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE INNER QUARTER PANEL AND WHEEL HOUSE PANEL WERE CORRODED. THE TECHNICIAN ALSO STATED THAT THE SHOCK HAD BECOME COMPLETELY DETACHED FROM THE FRAME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000. . ..UPDATED 01-10-14 *BF

Mileage: 83,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, A KNOCKING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND UPON INSPECTION, NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS CORRODED AND THE REAR SHOCK WAS NO LONGER MOUNTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000.

Mileage: 105,000

THE RIGHT REAR UPPER SHOCK MOUNT AND INNER FENDER WELL RUSTED NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AND THE PART IS ON BACK ORDER. I HAVE NO OTHER VEHICHLE AND RATHER FRUSTRATED. *TR

Mileage: 126,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE LIMITED HAS A SAFETY ISSUE SO BAD THAT IT'S UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL HAS RUSTED OUT AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT, READY OR CLOSE TO BREAKING FREE. *TR

Mileage: 103,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER AN UNEVEN ROAD SURFACE AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, HE NOTICED A LOUD BANGING SOUND. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR WHEEL WELL SHOCK TOWER WAS CORRODED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,000.

Mileage: 56,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR SHOCK ASSEMBLY WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Mileage: 100,000

AFTER A RECENT ROAD TRIP, I HEARD A CLUNKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE. CHECKED ITEMS IN CARGO AREA, SPARE TIRE, JACK AND EVEN CHECKED TO MAKE SURE BACK SEAT WAS SECURE. CLUNKING NOISE WAS THE SHOCK HITTING THE UNDERSIDE OF VEHICLE. THE SHOCK ASSEMBLY WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED, IT WAS RUSTED UNDER THE WHEEL WELL AROUND THE SHOCK ASSEMBLY. SO WITH EVERY BUMP IN THE ROAD, IT WAS CLANKING AROUND. VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE FOR FEAR THAT THE SHOCK WOULD BREAK AND CAUSE A TIRE BLOW OUT OR WORSE CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I TOOK IT TO A PRIVATE AUTO BODY SHOP WHICH COST ME $900 TO REPAIR THE DAMAGE. THE DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL WELL IS DOING THE SAME THING AND I MAY NOT HAVE A FUEL TANK EVENTUALLY. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND TAKEN CARE OF. I LOVE MY VEHICLE AND LOVE NOT HAVING A CAR PAYMENT TOO. *TR

Mileage: 100,500

A LOUD, STARTLING BANG OCCURRED. THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT HAD RUSTED OUT, LEAVING THE VEHICLE WITH NO RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER. THERE IS ALSO A GAPING HOLE PRODUCED THAT EXPOSES THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE TO DANGEROUS ACCELERATED ROAD DEBRIS. *TR

Mileage: 86,000

RIGHT SIDE (PASS) SHOCK MOUNT/INNER FENDER AREA COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT. UPPER SHOCK MOUNT DISENGAGED WITH THE VEHICLE CAUSING LOUD BANGING NOISE WHILE DRIVING. UNSTABLE DRIVING AS SHOCK IS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 145,900

THUMPING SOUND FROM RIGHT REAR OF CARGO DECK. UPON INTERIOR INSPECTION, NO LOOSE ITEMS IN CARGO AREA, NO LOOSE PANELS, AND JACK WAS NOT LOOSE. UPON EXTERIOR INSPECTION NOTICED RUSTED OUT PORTION OF WHEEL WELL. CAN SEE INTO INTERIOR (BACK OF INTERIOR PANEL, CARPETING, ETC.). SEEMS THAT THUMPING IS DUE TO WHEEL OR SUSPENSION PARTS BEING IMPROPERLY SUPPORTED DUE TO CORROSION OF/IN AREA OF WHEEL WELL. SPECIFICALLY, SHOCK AND/OR LARGE COIL SPRING ARE HITTING INTERIOR PANEL(S) OF VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 205,900

THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAS RUSTED OUT. THIS MAKES IT A HUGE SAFETY FACTOR BECAUSE AT ANYTIME THE SHOCKS CAN BREAK FREE AND BUST UPWARD INTO MY TRUCK. I TOOK MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE TO MY MECHANIC AND HE SAID THAT IN THE LAST 2 MONTHS HE HAD SEEN 4-5 2005 FORD ESCAPES WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. IT IS ALL THE SAME RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THERE IS A FACEBOOK PAGE WITH 195000 MEMBERS FOLLOWING IT SO I KNOW THAT I AM NOT ALONE. PROBLEM IS THAT HALF OF THE COUNTRY IS NOT IN AN AREA THAT HAS RUST. SO SOUTHERN FORD ESCAPE OWNERS ARE NOT GOING TO BE AFFECTED BY THIS. THIS CANNOT BE IGNORED BECAUSE NOT ALL 2005 FORD ESCAPE OWNERS HAVE THIS PROBLEM. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS WOULD SHOW YOU THAT ALL 2005 FORD ESCAPES WOULD HAVE THIS IF PUT TO THE SAME ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS. THIS NEEDS A RECALL. IT IS AN EASY FIX. FORD ALREADY FIXED IT WITH THE NEWER MODELS. JUST WELD IN A NEW RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL. THIS IS FRUSTRATING BECAUSE I KNOW IT IS A REAL PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL, BUT THE ENVIRONMENT IS WHAT IS SAVING THIS FROM BEING A NATIONAL ISSUE. *TR

Mileage: 125,000

THIS SAFETY ISSUE REQUIRES IMMEDIATE ATTENTION BY BOTH THE NHTSA AND FORD: 61 NHTSA COMPLAINTS FILED TO DATE: '04- 16; '05- 45. VEHICLE TAKEN TO FORD DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. SERVICE NOTIFIED THAT A FORWARD LOWER BALL JOINT WAS FAILING, NO OTHER DEFECTS WERE NOTED IN THE DETAILED VISUAL INSPECTION. IT WAS REPLACED TWO DAYS LATER. THE FOLLOWING DAY OF THE REPAIR, ON A DAILY COMMUTE BETWEEN TOL TO DTW, THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER SEPARATED WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MPH. VEHICLE BEGAN DOG-TRACKING. INITIAL INSPECTION DID NOT REVEAL THE HIDDEN DAMAGE CAUSED BY CORROSION AT THE WELDED SEAMS OF THE INNER WHEEL WELL DUE TO AN UNDERBODY COATING. UPON REMOVING THE UNDERCOATING, VERY EASILY BY HAND, TWO LARGE SECTIONS REMOVED, REVEALED THE SHOCK WAS PENETRATING THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE AND WAS NO LONGER BEING STRUCTURALLY SUPPORTED BY THE VEHICLES UNI-BODY FRAME. THE LARGE SECTIONS REMOVED WOULD HAVE CAUSED TIRE FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS BY PUNCTURE OR HAZARD TO OTHER FOLLOWING VEHICLES. THE SEPARATION OF THE SHOCK TOWER FROM THE BODY, DID CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO JERK AT THE TIME OF FAILURE, CREATING A LOUD POPPING SOUND AND CAUSING POTENTIAL HAZARD AS THE VEHICLE STEERED INTO OTHER LANES OF TRAFFIC AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS (70 MPH). THE VEHICLE IS RENDERED INOPERABLE DUE TO THE CATASTROPHIC NATURE OF THE FAILURE. LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP STATES THEY ARE UNCOMFORTABLE REPAIRING THE STRUCTURE AND NOT AWARE OF ANY MANUFACTURE RECALLS. IN CONTACTING THEIR SISTER DEALERSHIP, THEY HAVE PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED THIS DEFECT, AND CONTINUED ON STATING THIS FAILURE IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH 2004 - 2006 ESCAPES. THE FAILED PANEL IS AVAILABLE, P/N:PART 7L827827886A. A REINFORCEMENT PIECE IS ALSO AVAILABLE. SEE EXAMPLE PICTURE HERE: HTTP://IMAGESHACK.US/A/IMG854/6430/WHEELWELL2.JPG FACEBOOK SITE CONCERNING THIS SAFETY ISSUE: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/2005-FORD-ESCAPE-2004-2006/397923900236108. *TR

Mileage: 126,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED EXCESSIVE RUST ON THE SHOCK MOUNT ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WAS CAUSING THE WHEEL TO KNOCK AGAINST THE FRAME. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER WHO STATED THE ENTIRE QUARTER PANEL AND INSIDE WHEEL WELL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.

Mileage: 93,000

AS WE ARE DRIVING ALONG WE HEAR A VERY LOUD BANGING COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE.WHEN WE GET OUT TO INSPECT THE AREA WE FIND THE REAR PASENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL IS EXTREMELY RUSTED THRU AND CHUNKS OF THE WELL ARE ACTUALLY FALLING OUT. WE TOOK THE CAR TO THE FORD DEALER AND THEY SAID IT CANNOT BE REPAIRED!!!! BY THE FORD DEALER....THEN WE TOOK IT TO SEVERAL AUTO BODY SHOPS THAT SAID THEY CANNOT FIX THIS! SEVERAL PLACES SAID FORD USED FAULTY METAL OR UNDERCOATING AND THAT IS WHY IT RUSTED SO BADLY.THE CAR HAS ONLY 50000 MILES ON IT AND HAS BEEN HIGHLY MAINTAINED...I FINALLY FOUND AN AUTOBODY SHOP THAT WILL REPLACE THE ENTIRE WHEEL WELL AND THEER WILL BE NO GUARANTEE IT WONT HAPPEN AGAIN OR TO ANY OF THE OTHER WHEELS!!! I FEEL TOTALLY RIPPED OFF! I READ ONLINE THAT SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM.

Mileage: 50,000

THE RIGHT REAR UPPER SHOCK MOUNT COMPLETELY RUSTED THRU THE TRUNK AREA&WAS PROTRUDING UP ABOUT A FOOT INTO TRUNK AREA-VERY GLAD I WASN'T GOING FAST WHEN THIS HAPPENED!!MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE!!!!!!!!!THIS IS ONE OF FORDS BEST IDEAS EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!VERY THIN SHEET METAL WITH A THICKER PIECE WELDED TO IT TO SUPPORT 1 SIDE OF A VEHICLE.YEAH,THAT IS COMMON SENSE AT THE FINEST!!!!! THANKYOU FORD ENGINEERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!&DESIGNERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THESE SAME COMMON SENSE PEOPLE HOPEFULLY PUT OUT A RECALL SO PEOPLE CAN GET IT FIXED&GET SOME MONEY BACK!! I DID HAVE MINE FIXED RIGHT AWAY_IT'S THE ONLY VEHICLE I HAVE. *TR

Mileage: 140,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AROUND SHOCK TOWER AND SHOCK PUNCHED THROUGH INTO INTERIOR OF VEHICLE NOTHING ELSE RUSTED ON VEHICLE FORD SAID THERE IS NO RECALL AND EVERYONE SEEMS TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE ESCAPES AND SAID BODY SHOP WOULD BE $1300 TO FIX. *TR

Mileage: 74,000

THE LEFT PASSENGER REAR FENDER WELL HAS RUSTED OUT AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT, READY TO BREAK FREE. *TR

Mileage: 111,000

I'VE BEEN HEARING SOME LOUD NOISES/BANGS FROM THE BACK END OF MY CAR BUT COULDN'T FIGURE OUT WHAT IT WAS. I FOUND OUT THE ENTIRE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL HAD RUSTED OUT IN A 1/2 CIRCLE AROUND THE SHOCK. THE SHOCK WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE CAR. EVERYTIME IT WENT OVER A BUMP - IT SOUNDS LIKE MY TRUNK IS PICKING UP AND SLAMMING DOWN. I HAVE VERY MINIMAL RUST ON MY CAR AND THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS ARE IN VERY GOOD CONDITION. IF YOU OPEN THE COMPARTMENT WHERE THE JACK IS STORED IN MY TRUNK YOU CAN SEE MY TIRE THROUGH A HOLE. I HAVE SEEN DOZENS AND DOZENS OF ONLINE COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT CAUSING THE SHOCK TO DISCONNECT BUT FORD HAS NOT PUT OUT A RECALL AND IT COSTING $1200-$1800 TO REPAIR. *TR

Mileage: 92,000

THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED OUT, AND NOW BANGS AGAINST THE WHEEL HOUSING. *TR

Mileage: 112,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR SHOCK HAD PENETRATED THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE DUE TO RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS CONFIRMED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000.

Mileage: 48,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL HOUSING THAT ALSO IS THE TOP RIGHT REAR SHOCK MOUNT IS COMPLETELY RUSTED LOOSE. *TR

Mileage: 205,000

THE WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT AND THE SHOCK BROKE LOOSE AND WAS BANGING AROUND. BASICALLY THE WHOLE WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED OUT AND WILL NOT HOLD THE SHOCK ANY MORE. I CALLED THE LOCAL FORD DEALER TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL. I WAS TOLD THERE WAS NO RECALL. WHEN I SEARCHED ONLINE I FOUND MANY WITH THE SAME EXPERIENCE, AND EVEN A FACEBOOK PAGE. I'M DISAPPOINTED THAT FORD ISN'T TAKING CARE OF THIS. *TR

Mileage: 165,995

WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE HOME FROM WORK, I HEARD A CLANGING SOUND COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THINKING THE SHOCK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, I DROVE IT UNTIL THE END OF THE WEEK AND MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET IT SERVICED. WHILE THE TECHNICIAN WAS CHECKING OUT MY CAR HE NOTICED THE INNER WHEEL HOUSE AND SHOCK WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE SHOCK WAS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE FRAME IS RUSTED AND CRACKED. HE RECOMMENDED ME TO TAKE IT TO A BODY SHOP TO SEE IF IT COULD EVEN BE FIXED. I THEN TOOK IT TO A VERY REPUTABLE BODY SHOP IN MY TOWN AND THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. THEY WORK ON ALL MAKE AND MODELS OF DIFFERENT YEARS AND SAID THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR TO A VEHICLE. THEY SAID UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE IS MADE TO SUSTAIN ANY TYPE OF CONDITION AND THIS VEHICLE WAS POORLY MADE. THERE IS BARELY ANYTHING HOLDING THE BACK END OF THE VEHICLE TOGETHER AND FOR THIS REASON I WAS TOLD THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE IF I AM IN ANY SORT OF ACCIDENT THERE WILL BE NO PROTECTION TO ME AND THE VEHICLE WILL PROBABLY BE SPLIT IN TWO. DUE TO THE LOCATION OF THE DEFECT WHO KNOWS HOW LONG MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AND IT MAKES ME SICK TO THINK ABOUT WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED IF I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT AND I HAVE HAD MY TWO YOUNG CHILDREN IN MY BACKSEAT. THE ESTIMATE FROM THE BODY SHOP WAS OVER $13,000 TO FIX. I HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE SINCE 2005 AND IT HAS BEEN A GREAT, RELIABLE CAR UNTIL ALL THIS HAS HAPPENED. IT HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS OR HAD ANY OTHER MAJOR REPAIRS. *TR

Mileage: 93,800

WHILE DRIVING ON INTERSTATE, HIT A BUMP AND HEARD LOUD SOUND ON RIGHT REAR SIDE OF VEHICLE. AFTER I STOPPED TO INSPECT, FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR STRUT HAD NO SUPPORT AS THE RIGHT REAR INNER PANEL WAS CORRODED ALL THE WAY THROUGH WITH VERY THIN METAL AROUND THE ENTIRE AREA. LUCKILY THE STRUT DID NOT COME UP THROUGH INTERIOR. SEEMS VERY UNSAFE AND LIKELY TO CAUSE ACCIDENT IF DRIVEN. THIS APPEARS TO A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT AS THE CORROSION PROTECTION WAS NOT APPLIED CORRECTLY. I CALLED FORD MOTOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY JUST INDICATED THAT THERE WE NO RECALLS YET ON THIS PROBLEM. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM ON THE 2004-2005 FORD ESCAPES ON THE RIGHT REAR. I TOOK TO BODY SHOP AND HAVE ESTIMATES FROM $1,400 TO $1,700 TO REPAIR. THE VEHICLE IS IN VERY GOOD SHAPE EXCEPT FOR THIS ONE OBVIOUS DEFECT. *TR

Mileage: 112,100

WHILE DRIVING MY FORD ESCAPE, THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK PUNCHED THROUGH THE RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL BECOMING UNATTACHED. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION THE FENDER WELL AND PART OF THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT AND UNABLE TO SUPPORT THE SHOCK. I HAVE NOTIFIED THE FORD DEALER AND FORD'S CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND WAS TOLD THEY KNOW OF NO PROBLEM AND THAT THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY AND NOTHING THEY CAN DO. AFTER RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM ON THE WEB, I'VE FOUND A NUMBER OF FORD ESCAPE OWNERS WHO HAVE THE SAME RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL RUST PROBLEMS. THIS LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THAT IT MUST BE FORD MANUFACTURING DEFECT IN RUST PROOFING THEIR MATERIALS AND THEY SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCTS. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT. *TR

Mileage: 110,000

VEHICLE WAS SOLD TO ME WITH THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WEAR THE SHOCK, TIRE, AND FUEL SYSTEM IS LOCATED IT IS CORRODED OFF ITS FRAME. THERE IS NO RECALL OR POSSIBLE PART IN THE US TO BE FOUND FOR REPAIR ALSO THE DEALERSHIP SAID I WAS THE CAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM AND THEY WOULD DO NOTHING TO HELP ME OR REFUND MY MONEY OR EXCHANGE VEHICLES AS THEY WERE INFORMED OF THE PROBLEM AND SHOWN THE VEHICLE NOT EVEN 22 DAYS LATER FROM PURCHASE DATE. *TR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, HE HEARD A LOUD POP. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND UPON FURTHER EXAMINATION, NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE STRUT MOUNT HAD BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE DUE TO CORROSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 141,000.

Mileage: 141,000

RIGHT REAR WHEEL HOUSING RUSTS COMPLETELY THROUGH ALLOWING THE SHOCK TO DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. AFTER AN ONLINE SEARCH THIS IS A VERY COMMON INCIDENT. AFTER CONTACTING THE LOCAL FORD DEALER, THERE IS A BACK-ORDER ON THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL HOUSING WITH NO EXPECTED DATE OF DELIVERY. THIS IS THE ONLY WHEEL HOUSING ON THE VEHICLE THAT IS RUSTING OUT AND CAUSING ISSUES. THE ONLY TIME YOU START TO REALIZE THAT THERE IS AN ISSUE IS IF YOU START THE HEAR A "CLUNK" COMING FROM THE CAR, HOWEVER; THERE IS A RUBBERIZED UNDERCOAT THAT PREVENTS YOU FROM SEEING THE DAMAGE UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE OR A KNOWLEDGEABLE MECHANIC WITH THE ISSUE LOOKS SPECIFICALLY AT THE WHEEL HOUSING. *TR

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN I STARTED HEARING A LOUD BANGING NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK OF MY ESCAPE. I PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD TO INSPECT WHAT COULD BE BANGING AROUND, DIDN'T SEE ANYTHING. DROVE THE ESCAPE OVER THE WEEKEND THE NOISE KEPT GETTING LOUDER, STARTED INSPECTING THE WHOLE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR THAT IS WHEN I NOTICED THE WHOLE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL HAD RUSTED AWAY AND NOTHING WAS SUPPORTING THE SHOCK. VEHICLE LOOKS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 169,000

REAR WHEEL WELL AROUND SHOCK MOUNT IS RUSTED OUT. LOUD BANGING CAN BE HEARD FROM INSIDE CAB. OVER TIME THE SHOCK MOUNT MAY BREAK FREE FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 118,000

THE REAR WHEEL WELL WHERE THE SHOCK IS LOCATED THE WHOLE FRAME PANEL IS CRACKED, IT WAS COVERED UP FROM A PREVIOUS OWNER OR COMPANY. THE CAR DEALERSHIP I'M PURCHASING FROM WOULD NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR IT AND I EXPLAINED THE HAZARD IN ME DRIVING OR KEEPING THE VEHICLE AND I TOOK IT TO SEVERAL BODY SHOPS AND WAS TOLD IT HAPPENS WITH THESE VEHICLES FREQUENTLY AND ONE SHOP HAD ALREADY DONE 3 OF THE SAME AREAS. THERE IS NO RECALL OR INFORMATION ABOUT THE VEHICLES ISSUES BUT THIS IS A DANGER TO DRIVE. *TR

WHILE DRIVING A LOUD CRACK/POP WAS HEARD FROM THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL AND THEN THERE WAS ROAD NOISE. WHEN WE STOPPED THERE WAS A LARGE HOLE IN THE WHEEL WELL AROUND THE SHOCK MOUNT. ALL THE METAL HAS RUSTED THROUGH. THE SHOCK HAS NO ATTACHMENT LEFT TO THE UPPER BODY, ONLY ALONG THE BOTTOM EDGE. WHEN THE VEHICLE BOUNCES IT MOVES INDEPENDENTLY OF THE SHOCK IN THAT CORNER. I OPENED UP THE INTERIOR COMPARTMENT, REMOVED THE CARPET AND TRIM PIECES TO GET A LOOK AND FOUND A HOLE THAT IS LARGE ENOUGH TO PUT MY HAND THROUGH. THIS CAR HAS LESS THAN 78,000 MILES. THE TIRES AND BRAKES WERE REPLACED IN THE FALL AND NO SIGNS OF DAMAGE WERE PRESENT AT THAT TIME DUE TO THE UNDERCOATING BEING IN PLACE. *TR

Mileage: 77,565

I HEARD UNUSUAL ROAD NOISE AND EXPERIENCED LOOSENESS NEAR THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. UPON INSPECTION, I DETERMINED THAT THE REAR WHEEL WELL HAD CORRODED THROUGH, COMPROMISING THE REAR STRUT. THE HOLE EXTENDS NEARLY 12 INCHES, EXPOSING THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE EXTENT OF THE CORROSION WAS NOT APPARENT PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT BECAUSE THE WHEEL WELL COATING COVERED THE DEFECT. AFTER LOCATING THIS CORROSION, A FURTHER INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETED, BUT NONE OF THE OTHER WHEEL WELLS EXHIBIT SIMILAR CORROSION. DUE TO THE SEVERE CORROSION OF THIS BODY PANEL, THE CAR CANNOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN BECAUSE THE REAR STRUT IS BEING HELD IN PLACE BY ONLY A TINY PORTION OF THE STRUCTURAL PANEL. IF I HAD NOT LOCATED THIS DEFECT IN TIME, IT IS LIKELY THAT THE STRUT WOULD HAVE BECOME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE FRAME WHILE DRIVING AND WOULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR

Mileage: 142,249

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY HEARD A LOUD THUMP COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND SAW THAT THE REAR SHOCK WAS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE WHEEL WELL WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN TO THE DEALER AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 105,000. *TR

Mileage: 105,000

THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL IS RUSTED TO THE POINT OF NON-DRIVABILITY. THIS IS A SINCERE SAFETY ISSUE. NO NOTICE OF THE PROBLEM UNTIL THE "RUBBERIZED" COATING PEALED AWAY TO SHOWCASE THE MASSIVE RUST HOLES. *TR

Mileage: 135,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WELL WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A HOLE IN THE WHEEL WELL. IN ADDITION, WHENEVER THE CONTACT TRAVELED OVER A ROAD BUMP, THERE WAS A LOUD BANG FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THE VEHICLE WAS DETERMINED TO BE UNFIT TO DRIVE. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE DEALER DEEMED THE VEHICLE UNFIT TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE STRUT AND WHEEL WELL WERE DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT IT WAS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL WOULD DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 97,000. KMJ *TR THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING, HE HIT A LARGE POT HOLE, AND THEN HE HEARD A HUGE BANG FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. HE THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT, SO AS HE CONTINUED TO DRIVE, THE NOISE BECAME WORSE. WHEN HE ARRIVED HOME, HE OPENED THE COMPARTMENT AND FOUND THE INSIDE WAS DAMP WITH WATER. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, HE NOTICED HE COULD SEE THROUGH THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE INTO THE STREET THROUGH A NEWLY FORMED HOLE IN THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL. THE CRACK STARTED AT THE REAR OF THE TIRE WELL TO ABOUT THE MIDDLE OF THE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT FORD DIDN'T WANT TO CLAIM ANY RESPONSIBILITY. THE RUST WAS IN AN AREA THAT NOBODY NOTICED, AS IT WAS BEHIND THE SEALER THAT WAS OUT IN THE TIRE WELLS OF VEHICLES IN THE NORTHCAST. FORD INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, AND INFORMED THE CONSUMER, IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE, AS THE SUSPENSION WAS COMPROMISED. THE STRUT WAS VERY LOOSE AND HE WITNESSED THE CRACK GET EVEN BIGGER, AS HE TRIED TO DRIVE IT BACK FROM THE DEALER. ALSO, THE CONSUMER HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE REVERSE LIGHTS FLICKERING ON AND OFF. WHEN HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, HE WAS INFORMED A NEW SWITCH WAS NEEDED. HE DECLINED THE REPLACEMENT. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT MAY HAVE BEEN A SYMPTOM OF THE RUST AND THE WIRES GETTING WET. UPDATED 12/04/13

FORD ESCAPE 2005 REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL RUSTED OUT. I NOTICED SLIGHT STRUT SOUNDING NOISE IN THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL FOR A WEEK. I CHECKED TO MAKE SURE NOTHING WAS RATTLING IN THE TRUNK OR WHERE THE JACK MOUNTS. AFTER OPENING THE PLASTIC ACCESS COMPARTMENT TO THE JACK, THERE WAS A HOLE STRAIGHT THROUGH TO THE GROUND. I INSPECTED THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL WELL AND SAW THE ENTIRE THING RUSTED OUT CLEAR ABOVE THE SHOCK/STRUT MOUNT. I CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND THERE WAS NO RECALL YET THE VEHICLE CAN ESSENTIALLY BE DEEMED UN-DRIVABLE AND A SAFETY HAZARD FOR THE ROAD. *TR

Mileage: 150,000

THERE WAS BANGING IN THE RIGHT REAR. THE SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OFF THE INNER FENDER . THE INNER FENDER HAS SEVERE RUST AND PART OF THE FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH. THE INNER FENDER HAD TO BE REPLACED. A PORTION OF THE FRAME HAD TO BE REPLACED. A NEW SHOCK WAS NEEDED. THE FLOOR IN THE REAR OF THE CAR HAD TO BE REPAIRED FROM THE SHOCK HITTING INTO IT. ALL IN ALL $1,373.55 IN REPAIR. I HAVE PICTURES. I CONTACTED A LOCAL FORD DEALER WHO EXPLAINED THAT THE CAR IS 8 YEARS OLD AND WE HAVE SALT ON THE ROAD IN WINTER. I ALSO CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE WHO EXPLAINED THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR SUCH AN INCEDENT. AFTER LOOKING ON LINE I FOUND NUMEROUS SIMILAR EXPERIENCES WHICH LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THIS IS NOT CAUSED BY NORMAL USE. THE AFFECTED PARTS MUST NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY TREATED OR COATED OR SEALED OR SOMETHING. *TR

Mileage: 192,360

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS HE HEARD A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INSPECTED HIS VEHICLE BY REMOVING THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTING PLATE WAS RUSTED AND HAD DETACHED FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 184,180. *TR UPDATED 04/30/13*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER HE FILED THE COMPLAINT, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL BODY SHOP, WHERE IT WAS DEEMED UNSAFE TO DRIVE, IN ITS CURRENT CONDITION. THE BODY SHOP REPAIRED THE AFFECTED AREA.

Mileage: 184,180

RIGHT REAR SHOCK TOWER COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT, CAUSING THE REAR SHOCK TO BECOME UNATTACHED FROM THE BODY OF THE CAR. *TR

Mileage: 135,000

AS I WAS DRIVING OVER THE WEEKEND WITH MY HUSBAND AND 2 YOUNG CHILDREN I NOTICED A LOUD BANGING NOISE IN THE BACK OF MY VEHICLE. WHEN I CHECKED THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL AREA I NOTICED THE INNER AND OUTER WHEEL HOUSE WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH, SO MUCH SO THAT THE SHOCK WAS HITTING THE INSIDE OF MY VEHICLE AS IT HAD NOTHING TO ATTACH TO ANYMORE. I NOTICED ROAD DEBRIS INSIDE MY VEHICLE WHEN I PULLED UP THE CARPET. I LOOKED AT IT WITH SEVERAL CO-WORKERS WHO HAVE BEEN IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY FOR 10-15 YEARS, STATING THEY HAD NEVER IN THEIR LIVES SEEN SOMETHING LIKE THIS. I STARTED TO DO SOME RESEARCH ONLINE AND FOUND A SHOCKING AMOUNT OF THE SAME COMPLAINTS FOR THIS YEAR/MADE/MODEL, MOST OF THEM RECENT. I AM EXTREMELY UPSET WITH FORD FOR NOT RECOGNIZING THIS AS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AS IT IS CLEAR THAT IT IS. MY FAMILY AND I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED IF THE SHOCK WENT STRAIGHT THROUGH THE FLOOR. I CALLED TOUSLEY FORD WHERE I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE AND THE WOMAN SIMPLY SAID, "WELL, THERE ISN'T A RECALL ON IT SO YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR IT". THIS IS GOING TO COST ME THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR A MANUFACTURER DEFECT THAT IS NOT BEING RECOGNIZED BY FORD. ASTOUNDING. *TR

Mileage: 115,000

I HEARD A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM PASSENGER REAR. WHEN I LOOKED TO SEE WHAT THE NOISE WAS I SAW THE SHOCK MOUNT WAS COMING THREW THE INSIDE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION IT WAS FOUND THAT THE WHEEL WELL WAS ALL RUSTED OUT, WHICH INCLUDED THE SHOCK MOUNT. I TOOK IT TO A EMERLING FORD ONLY TO FIND OUT THAT IT WILL COST ME AROUND $1500.00 TO HAVE THIS REPAIRED. THIS IS THE 4TH VEHICLE THAT NEEDED THIS REPAIR AT THEIR SHOP. *TR

Mileage: 128,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE SUSPENSION WAS SEVERELY CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE SUB FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 100,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Mileage: 100,000

THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL CORRODED COMPLETELY THROUGH THE METAL AND ENCOMPASSES THE ENTIRE UPPER SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTING POINT. NOTHING IS HOLDING THE UPPER SHOCK ABSORBER ATTACHMENT IN PLACE. *TR

Mileage: 105,000

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED, THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE PASSENGER REAR SHOCK MOUNT HAD ROTTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY FOR THE FAILURE AND RECOMMENDED THAT A NEW VEHICLE BE PURCHASED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 73,028.

Mileage: 73,028

PASSENGER SIDE REAR SHOCK MOUNT COMPLETELY ROTTED OFF OF VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 85,000

INNER AND OUTER WHEEL HOUSES, AND QUARTER PANELS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE WERE RUSTED/CORRODED TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SHOCK WAS PUSHING THROUGH THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. LOUD BANGING NOISES AND WATER INSIDE THE VEHICLE LED TO INSPECTION BY PROFESSIONALS. VISIBLE HOLES IN THE WHEEL HOUSE AREA WERE DISCOVERED AT THIS TIME. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS REALIZED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE WAS JUST AS BADLY RUSTED/CORRODED. ALL PARTS LISTED ABOVE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, AS WELL AS BOTH SHOCKS, WHICH WERE ALSO DAMAGED DUE TO THEIR DETACHMENT FROM THE RUSTED AREAS. ALL WERE REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE, IMMEDIATELY, DUE TO THE DANGER OF DRIVING THE VEHICLE ANY FURTHER, THUS AVOIDING A POTENTIALLY SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THE EXPENSES WERE $3402.08. FORD WILL NOT COVER THESE EXPENSES BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE CAR ONLY HAS 69,000 MILES, AND IS OTHERWISE IN TOP CONDITION. THE DAMAGES SEEM EXCESSIVE AT THIS MILEAGE AND AGE. PHOTOGRAPHS ARE AVAILABLE OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER REPAIRS.

Mileage: 69,000

MY DAUGHTERS 2005 ESCAPE STARTED MAKING A POUNDING NOISE WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS. NOT BEING A MECHANIC I THOUGHT IT WAS A SHOCK ABSORBER. AFTER A CLOSER INSPECTION I SAW THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT WAS RUSTING AWAY FROM THE FRAME. I COULD ACTUALLY MOVE IT SLIGHTLY BY HAND. THE STRUCTURAL DAMAGE IS A HOLE ON THE INSIDE OF THE STORAGE AREA INSIDE THE VEHICLE. AFTER CHECKING THE DRIVER SIDE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT THERE IS ALSO A HOLE IN THE BODY IN THE REAR STORAGE COMPARTMENT RIGHT NEXT TO THE GASOLINE FILLER NECK TUBE. THIS IS A POTENTIAL TRAGEDY WAITING TO HAPPEN.PLEASE DO SOMETHING TO REMEDY THIS UNHEARD OF PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT.THIS TYPE OF DAMAGE SURELY TOOK A FEW YEARS TO PROGRESS THIS BAD.SAW A LOT OF OWNERS OF SAME VEHICLE WITH SIMILAR COMPLAINTS. *TR

Mileage: 79,000

MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS HAD A LOUD BANGING IN REAR PASSENGER SIDE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. I HAS ASSUMED THAT THE STRUT NEEDED REPLACED. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION MY MECHANIC AND I NOTICED A TERRIBLE AMOUNT OF RUST AND CORROSION TO REAR PASSENGER WHEEL WELL THAT HAS BOLTS ATTACHED TO STRUT. YOU CAN SEE INTO INTERIOR OF VEHICLE FROM OUTSIDE. I RESEARCHED RECALLS OF THESE PROBLEM AND FOUND NONE, ALTHOUGH THERE WERE SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. THIS SEEMS TO HAPPEN ONLY ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE ALTHOUGH HAS ME WORRIED ABOUT OTHER COMPLICATIONS THAT COULD ARISE. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE THAT THE FORD MOTOR CO. SHOULD ADDRESS POST HASTE. I FEAR THAT MY FAMILIES AND OTHERS LIVES ARE AT STAKE IF THIS PROBLEM IS NOT TAKEN CARE OF SOON. *TR

Mileage: 57,500

TOOK ESCAPE TO MECHANIC AFTER LOUD BANGING HEARD. RIGHT WHEEL WELL HAS LARGE HOLE IN IT AND THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED THROUGH, SOURCE OF THE BANGING. MECHANIC STATED THAT THIS PROBLEM MOST LIKELY BEGAN PRIOR TO PURCHASE OF CAR. FORD FAILED TO INFORM US OF THIS PROBLEM AFTER MULTI-POINT INSPECTION 5 MONTHS AGO. CAR HAS HAD TWO OWNERS WITHIN SAME FAMILY. FORD QUOTED $2500 REPAIR WILL NOT REIMBURSE AND STATED THAT THE REPAIRS WOULD NOT EVEN BE COVERED BY FACTORY WARRANTY, BECAUSE IT IS NOT THE "BODY" OF THE CAR. *TR

Mileage: 135,000

THE PASSENGER-SIDE REAR WHEEL WELL HAS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH TO THE POINT WHERE YOU CAN SEE INTO THE CABIN, AND THE SHOCK/STRUT IS MOUNTED TO NOTHING AND IS POKING INTO MY TRUNK. THE METAL ALL AROUND THE MOUNT (OR WHERE IT SHOULD BE MOUNTED) IS COMPLETELY CORRODED AND RUSTED TO THE POINT OF BEING COMPLETELY DETACHED, AND THE SURROUNDING METAL IS STAMPED SO THIN TO BEGIN WITH THAT IT IS PLIABLE. THE SHOCK IS COMPLETELY INEFFECTIVE, AND MY CAR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB OF SAFETY ISSUES. I HAVE CONTACTEDFORD SEVERAL TIMES, AND FORD CANADA IS DENYING THAT THIS IS A SAFETY OR QUALITY ISSUE AND HAVE TAKEN NO RESPONSIBILITY; THEY REFUSE TO FIX MY CAR. I CANNOT FIND A RECALL AT PRESENT, HOWEVER THERE ARE NUMEROUS PEOPLE REPORTING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THEIR ESCAPES, 6 ALONE ON [XXX] AND 5 ON [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Mileage: 185,000

RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNT IS RUSTING PREMATURELY MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *TR

Mileage: 160,000

STARTED HEARING LOUD RATTLING SOUNDS FROM REAR OF CAR , LOOKED AND SAW PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WELL/SHOCK MOUNT RUSTED OUT AND SEPARATED FROM REST OF VEHICLE. *TR

Mileage: 57,911

HI- I HAVE A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. I BOUGHT IT USED. JUST RECENTLY I STARTED TO HEAR A BANGING IN THE BACK REAR OF THE CAB PART OF THE CAR. I FOUND OUT THE SHOCK MOUNTS ARE RUSTED OUT, AND I FEEL LIKE THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE CAR COULD FALL APART WHILE DRIVING OR CATCH FIRE. I RESEARCHED THIS AND FOUND IT A COMMON PROBLEM. *TR

Mileage: 109,000

DRIVING MY FORD ESCAPE 2005, 35MPH, HEARD A THUMP/BANG THEN VERY LOUD RATTLING FROM THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. ARRIVED HOME, FOUND THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK, SHOCK MOUNT, AND A DINNER-PLATE-SIZED CHUNK OF WHEEL WELL HAD PUNCHED UP INTO THE BACK OF THE VEHICLE. OPENED THE LIFTGATE, SAW THE SHOCK MOUNT FLOPPING AROUND INSIDE THE CAR AND A DANGLING CLUSTER OF WIRES THAT HAD BEEN SHREDDED BY THE JAGGED METAL. ENTIRE RIGHT SIDE OF THE REAR COMPARTMENT HAD BEEN SHOVED UP 10CM. HUSBAND WAS SHOCKED, SURE I MUST HAVE HIT SOMETHING, BUT I HAD NOT. RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL HAD COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT UNDERNEATH THE UNDERCOATING. COULD NOT SEE THE RUST FROM THE OUTSIDE, SO DID NOT KNOW IT WAS HAPPENING. CHECKED LEFT REAR WHEEL WELL, SAW NO RUST, BUT UNDERCOATING LIFTS RIGHT OFF TO REVEAL TERRIBLE RUST UNDERNEATH AS WELL. VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE, NO SHOCK, WATER AND ROAD DEBRIS WOULD FLY RIGHT UP INTO THE CAR THROUGH THE HUGE HOLE. THIS KIND OF DAMAGE IS INCREDIBLE. ESTIMATE FOR REPAIR FROM DEALERSHIP (BRONDES FORD, TOLEDO) WAS $5752.34. CERTAINLY CAN NOT AFFORD THAT. RESEARCHED ONLINE FOR REPAIR ALTERNATIVES AND FOUND DOZENS OF OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME TYPE OF DAMAGE TO THE SAME VEHICLE MAKE AND MODEL. REPORTED THE DAMAGE TO FORD CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP HOTLINE, WAS INFORMED THAT NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS VEHICLE, AND THAT THEY WERE UNAWARE THAT THIS WAS A COMMON, FREQUENT, OR WIDESPREAD PROBLEM. THEY DID NOT CONSIDER IT A DEFECT. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. MY CHILDREN WERE AFRAID WE WERE GOING CRASH. EASILY COULD HAVE LOST CONTROL IF THIS HAD HAPPENED WHILE TURNING A CORNER, MERGING INTO TRAFFIC, DRIVING 65MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, ETC. I AM CERTAIN, HOWEVER, THAT ONCE FORD MOTOR COMPANY REALIZES THE POTENTIAL HARM THIS DEFECT CAN CAUSE TO LIFE AND PROPERTY, THEY WILL BE DETERMINED TO DO RIGHT BY THEIR LOYAL CUSTOMERS. *TR

Mileage: 106,880

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, SHE HEARD A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE WHEELS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S WHEEL BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,167.

Mileage: 30,167

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD NOISE WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHERE THE FAILURE WAS LOCATED AT THE PASSENGER REAR WELL AREA, WHICH WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND CAUSED THE BOLTS AND STRUTS TO CORRODED AND SEPARATE FROM THE WELL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED BUT WAS UNAWARE IF THE REPLACEMENT WAS DUE TO CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WELL WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 161,000. UPDATED 07/27/12 *BF UPDATED 08/02/12

Mileage: 161,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE WITH A RUSTED OUT RIGHT REAR WHEEL WELL AROUND THE UPPER SHOCK MOUNT. I CHECKED WITH A FORD DEALER ABOUT ANY RECALLS, NONE. FORD MANAGER SAID THEY HAVE NEVER SEEN SUCH AN ISSUE AT LASCO FORD FENTON MI. (FORD EST. TO REPAIR WAS 3400.00) I STOPPED AT A COUPLE BODYSHOPS IN THE AREA AND THEY (KNEW) OF THIS PROBLEM AND COULD QUOTE ME THE PARTS NEEDED, ALONG WITH THE 25 HOURS TO REPLACE/REPAIR IT. MY ESCAPE IS 7 YEARS OLD AND HAS 115,000 MILES, HOWEVER I DON'T THINK THAT THE BODY STRUCTURE (IN WHEEL WELL) SHOULD HAVE RUSTED COMPLETELY AWAY (RIGHT SIDE ONLY?), LEAVING THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT FLAPPING BACK AND FORTH, MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE AND (NOT) DRIVABLE. THIS PROBLEM ENDED UP COSTING 2005.00 TO REPAIR. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. I CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THIS WAS THERE RESPONSE: I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING RUST ISSUES ON THE RIGHT REAR FENDER AND SHOCK MOUNTS OF YOUR VEHICLE. I APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED. I CAN ALSO SEE WHY YOU FEEL THIS IS A MIGHT BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE RESEARCH YOU MADE. PLEASE UNDERSTAND, WE SHARE ALL OF OUR VEHICLE CONCERN DOCUMENTATION WITH NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC AND SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) AND FORD ENGINEERING. TOGETHER, WE WORK TO FURTHER DETERMINE IF A RECALL OR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAMS (CSP) IS NEEDED FOR COMPONENT FAILURES. IF A RECALL OR CSP BECOMES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VEHICLE, YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED BY U.S. MAIL TO THE CURRENT ADDRESS WE HAVE ON FILE. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT NHTSA, WHICH IS THE FEDERAL AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS THE ONLY ORGANIZATION WITH THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER A RECALL OR CSP. IN ADDITION, I FOUND THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, FIELD SERVICE ACTIONS (RECALLS) / CSPS ON YOUR VEHICLE THAT WOULD PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR CURRENT CONCERN. FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR

Mileage: 115,000

2005 ESCAPE WITH A RUSTED OUT RIGHT REAR FENDER WELL AND SHOCK MOUNT. I CHECKED WITH ATCHINSON FORD ABOUT ANY RECALLS, NONE. I CALLED A COUPLE BODYSHOPS IN THE AREA. THEY KNOW OF THIS PROBLEM AND COULD QUOTE ME THE TWO PARTS NEEDED, ALONG WITH THE 15 HOURS TO REPLACE/REPAIR IT. THEY SAID THAT THEY FIXED 2004, 2005, & 2006 MODELS WITH THIS PROBLEM. TODAY I WENT OUT INTO OUR WORK PARKING LOT AND LOOKED AT OUR Q.C. MANAGER'S 2005 ESCAPE. AND WE FOUND THE SAME THING HAPPENING TO HIS. IF I COULD ATTACH PICTURES I WOULD. MY ESCAPE IS 7 YEARS OLD AND HAS 115,000 MILES, HOWEVER I DON'T THINK THAT THE BODY STRUCTURE SHOULD CORRODE AWAY, LEAVING THE TOP SHOCK MOUNT READY TO BREAK FREE MAKING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESS. I EMAIL FORD AND THIS WAS THERE RESPONSE: I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING RUST ISSUES ON THE RIGHT REAR FENDER AND SHOCK MOUNTS OF YOUR VEHICLE. I APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE THIS MAY HAVE CAUSED. I CAN ALSO SEE WHY YOU FEEL THIS IS A MIGHT BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH THE RESEARCH YOU MADE. PLEASE UNDERSTAND, WE SHARE ALL OF OUR VEHICLE CONCERN DOCUMENTATION WITH NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC AND SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) AND FORD ENGINEERING. TOGETHER, WE WORK TO FURTHER DETERMINE IF A RECALL OR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAMS (CSP) IS NEEDED FOR COMPONENT FAILURES. IF A RECALL OR CSP BECOMES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR VEHICLE, YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED BY U.S. MAIL TO THE CURRENT ADDRESS WE HAVE ON FILE. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT NHTSA, WHICH IS THE FEDERAL AGENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS THE ONLY ORGANIZATION WITH THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER A RECALL OR CSP. IN ADDITION, I FOUND THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, FIELD SERVICE ACTIONS (RECALLS) / CSPS ON YOUR VEHICLE THAT WOULD PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR CURRENT CONCERN. FORD MOTOR COMPANY. *TR

Mileage: 115,000

RUBBING SOUND COMING FROM LEFT FRONT (DRIVER'S SIDE) WHEEL WELL. DIAGNOSED BY FORD AS A "LOOSE" WHEEL BEARING. SOUNDS MORE LIKE A FAILURE. FORD CHARGED $47 TO "DIAGNOSE" THE PROBLEM. SEEMS LIKE MAYBE THEY ALREADY KNEW WHAT IT MIGHT BE AND LET 3 TECHS SOAK UP SOME CLOCK TIME ON THIS ONE. THE ORIGINAL CHARGE WAS QUOTED AT $95 SO I GUESS WE GOT OFF BETTER THAN SOME. *TT

Mileage: 22,800

LOUD SQUEAKY NOISE FROM RIGHT FRONT END. TOOK TO MECHANIC. THEY SAY BOTH FRONT GREASE BOOTS ARE CRACKED WHICH ALLOWS DIRT, DUST, ETC. TO GET IN AND UP AROUND THE BALL JOINTS AND TIE ROD ASSEMBLIES. THE RIGHT FRONT BALL JOINT HAD GONE BAD DUE TO THIS BOOT CRACK SO WE HAD TO REPLACE IT. THEY RECOMMEND REPLACING BOTH TIE RODS, BOOTS AND BALL JOINTS, BUT WE COULD ONLY AFFORD TO REPLACE THE BALL JOINT THAT WAS BAD AT THIS TIME BECAUSE WE JUST SPENT $3350 PUTTING A NEW TRANSMISSION IN THE CAR. THIS VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 50,000 MILES ON IT. UNBELIEVABLE!!!! WHAT IS FORD BUILDING THESE CARS WITH??? I SUSPECT THE CHEAPEST PARTS THEY CAN GET REGARDLESS OF THEIR QUALITY SO THEY CAN MAKE MORE MONEY. IN THE MEANTIME THE AVERAGE WORKING FAMILY HAS TO PAY TWICE FOR A VEHICLE'S PARTS THAT SHOULD NOT GO BAD SO QUICKLY. *TR

Mileage: 47,000

2005 FORD ESCAPE "TONE RING" ON THE AXEL THROWS OFF THE ABS AND IT ENGAGES AT THE TAP OF THE BRAKES. GRABBING THE BRAKES, EITHER SLAMMING ON BRAKES OR NO BRAKES AT ALL. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS AND THERE ARE MANY MANY COMPLAINTS FROM 01-10 ESCAPES. DEALERS ARE CHARGING FOR AXEL AND RING TO BE REPLACED WHEN ALL THAT NEEDS REPLACED IS THE 15$ RING. I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED BECAUSE IT CAUSES VEHICLES TO FLIP OVER AND ALSO TO NOT STOP. MY VEHICLE HAS 90,XXX MILES ON IT AND THE ABS LIGHT COMES ON AND GOES OFF. THE VEHICLE WILL OFTEN NOT BRAKE AT ALL! I HAVE HAD TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND PULL OFF OF ROAD. THIS HAS HAPPENED WHEN ABS LIGHT WAS NOT ON! I FEEL THIS IS A PERFECT DEFECT TO BE RECALLED BECAUSE IT HAS TO DO WITH A MAJOR PROBLEM THE BRAKES. PLEASE SOMEONE LOOK INTO THIS. I HAVE JUST SPENT 800 DOLLARS FIXING THIS AND THE MECHANIC SAID ITS VERY VERY COMMON. GOOGLED IT AND FOUND THIS TO BE VERY VERY COMMON. THANK YOU. *TR

Mileage: 88,890

WHEN ENTERING A HIGHWAY WE HIT A DEEP GROOVE IN THE ROAD AND THEN PROCEEDED ONTO THE HIGHWAY. WITHIN 10 SECONDS THE CAR WHEELS AND STEERING WHEEL WENT OUT OF CONTROL. THE CAR WEAVED AND BOBBED FOR ABOUT 200 FEET UNCONTROLLABLE. I WAS TOLD THE STEERING RACK AND TIE ROD SNAPPED. WE HIT SOMEONE WHILE OUR CAR SPUN AROUND INTO ON COMING TRAFFIC AND WE FLEW INTO THE GUARD RAIL AT SUCH FORCE THE CAR LIFTED AND GOT LODGED ON THE GUARD RAIL. THIS PROBABLY SAVED OUR LIVES BECAUSE AT THAT POINT WE HAD DONE A 180 AND WERE FACING ONCOMING TRAFFIC. CAN NOT GET AN HELP FROM FORD. *TR

Mileage: 59,000

I HAVE READ NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON THE TONE RING THAT IS LOCATED ON THE FRONT AXLE OF THE FORD ESCAPES AND THAT IS WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO MY VEHICLE THE ABS AND 4 WHEEL DRIVE GOES OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE FORD FORUM. COM IS WHERE ITS LOCATED AND I FEEL IT NEEDS TO BE LOOKED IN AT. THE WORRIES AND COMPLAINTS ABOUT HOWE SOME PEOPLE BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW AND ALREADY HAD TO REPLACE THE PIECE. *TR

HAS BEEN A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL. THERE WAS A GREAT DEAL OF VIBRATION ON THE FLOORBOARD OF THE CAR. TOOK IT TO REPAIR SHOP AND FOUND I NEEDED A NEW WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WHEEL. THE CAR ONLY HAS 32,393 MILES ON IT EVEN THOUGH IT'S A 2005. I BOUGHT IT NEW AND HAVEN'T DRIVEN IT HARD. WARRANTY, OF COURSE, RAN OUT 2 YEARS AGO. *TR

Mileage: 32,390

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO A DEFECTIVE WHEEL BEARING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR IDENTICAL FAILURES INVOLVING THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED AGAIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 37,800.

Mileage: 23,000

WHEEL BEARINGS STARTED TO FAIL @35,000 MILES.DEALER SAID NOISE WAS HALF SHAFT BEARING AND REPLACED IT.THEY SAID NOISE AFTER REPAIR WAS ROAD NOISE AND 18,000 MILES LATER THE WHEEL BEARINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE NOISE WAS GONE.SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED AT 35,000 MILES AND BEEN UNDER WARRANTY BUT INSTEAD WE HAD TO PAY $700 OUT OF POCKET DUE TO POOR JUDGEMENT ON DEALER MECHANIC. *TR

Mileage: 35,000

NOTICED A RATTLING IN FRONT END, CREAKING NOISE WHEN TURNING TOWARDS THE RIGHT, AFTER TAKING IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEM TELLING ME IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER MY BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY, I TOOK IT TO A FRONT-END SPECIALIST IN MY TOWN. THE PASSENGERS SWAY BAR LINK HAD TO BE REPLACED, NOW 3 MONTHS LATER, SAME NOISE DIFFERENT SIDE. TOOK IT TO THE SAME PLACE AND THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE DRIVERS SIDE SWAY BAR LINK. THE FRONT END PLACE COMMENTED THAT THEY FIX A LARGE NUMBER OF THESE ON ESCAPES, MORE THAN ANY OTHER CAR. CURRENTLY THE PARTS CAN ONLY BE BOUGHT FROM FORD, WHICH MEANS THEY WILL GO BAD AGAIN IN 2 1/2 YEARS! *TR

Mileage: 34,330

2005 FORD ESCAPE. NOISE IN THE FRONT END WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT ANY SPEED. HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER FOR SERVICE ON THREE SEPARATE APPOINTMENTS FOR THE SAME THING. FIRST THEY SAID IT WAS DUE TO A RECALL ON THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE. THE SECOND TIME THEY BLAMED IT ON TIRE ROTATION NEED. THE THIRD AND FINAL TIME TO THIS PARTICULAR SERVICE DEPARTMENT, THEY SAID IT WAS IN NEED OF A FOUR WHEEL ALIGNMENT BUT THE NOISE WOULD STILL BE PRESENT. THE VEHICLE DID NOT PULL LEFT OR RIGHT. I REFUSED THEIR SERVICE THIS TIME BUT THEY DIDN'T SEEM TO CARE ABOUT LOSING A CUSTOMER. THAT WAS THEIR DEMEANOR EVERYTIME I WENT THERE. *NM

Mileage: 11,000

WHILE DRIVING HOME ON A CLEAR, SUNNY DAY, MY FORD ESCAPE PULLED TO THE LEFT, CROSSING THE CENTER LINE, CRASHING INTO A SEMI-TRUCK TWICE, HITTING TWO ADDITIONAL CARS AND FLIPPED ONTO ITS SIDE. I HAD TO BE CUT OUT OF MY VEHICLE AND WAS AIRLIFTED TO A TRAUMA CENTER. I SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION, BROKEN RIBS AND BRUISING ALL OF MY BODY. LUCKILY, NO ONE WAS KILLED, BUT MY CAR WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE CAR HAD BEEN PULLING TO THE LEFT ON OCCASION, BUT ON THOSE OCCASIONS I WAS ABLE TO CORRECT IT QUICKLY. *NM

Mileage: 26,000

DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE PULLED TO THE LEFT. IT FELT AS IF THE CONTACT CONSTANTLY WAS MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN. THIS PROBLEM WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE SERVICE DEALER THREE TIMES. IT WAS DETERMINED THHAT THE ALIGNMENT WAS WITHIN THE MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS. THE SERVICE DEALER COMPLETED DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. HE CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. THEY SAID THEIR ENGINEERS WERE AWARE THERE WAS A PROBLEM, AND WERE WORKING TO FIND A SOLUTION. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. *AK UPDATE 1/4/2006 - *NM

Mileage: 500

DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH THERE WAS VIBRATION IN THE FRONT END OF VEHICLE. THE DEALER MADE NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE REPAIRS CONSISTED OF: BALANCING THE TIRES ON TWO DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, REPLACEMENT OF THE TIRES AND WHEELS, BALANCING OF THE NEW TIRES, AND REPLACEMENT OF THE DRIVESHAFT. AFTER THESE ATTEMPTS WERE MADE, THE DEALER CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE VIBRATION WAS NORMAL FOR THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE. *AK UPDATED 12/27/05. *JB

THE FRONT SUSPENSION OF MY 2005 FORD ESCAPE HAS A TENDENCY TO NOSE DIVE AS THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED AND ALSO HAVE EXCESSIVE PLAY IN THE STEERING. THERE IS ALSO A PERSISTENT RATTLE OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION THAT FORD SAYS IS COMMON TO ALL FORD ESCAPES AND THUS FAR HAS NOT FIXED. *NM

BOUGHT A 2005 FORD ESCAPE LIMITED 11,312 MILES AGO. HAVE HAD THE CAR INTO THE DEALER SIX TIMES BECAUSE IT KEEPS PULLING TO THE LEFT (INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC). THEY HAVE ALIGNED, OVER ALIGNED AND REPLACED THE TIRES. TO THIS DAY, IT STILL PULLS TO THE LEFT. SINCE IT PULLS TO THE LEFT, A "HEAD-ON COLLISON" IS BOUND TO HAPPEN. THE FORD DEALER, MAC HAIK, DOESN'T SEEM TO CARE OR HAS NO INTEREST IN FIXING THIS POTENTAL DANGEROUS SITUATION.*AK

Mileage: 1