2005 Ford Escape hybrid problems
The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year. The first Ford SUV derived from a car platform, the Escape fell below the Ford Explorer in size; the Escape is currently sized between the Ford EcoSport and Ford Edge. The 2004 Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid-electric vehicle from Ford, and the first hybrid produced as an SUV.
The first two generations of the Escape used the Ford CD2 platform (jointly developed with Mazda), leading to the release of the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner; as with the Escape, both the Tribute and Mariner were marketed in North America. In Europe, the Escape was initially branded as the Ford Maverick from 2001 to 2008 (replacing a Nissan-produced SUV).
Under the mid-2000s "One Ford" globalization strategy, the third and fourth-generation designs of the Escape have been unified with the Ford Kuga, designed by Ford of Europe. Sharing a common body and chassis underpinnings (and several engines), the Escape and Kuga are manufactured in their home markets. As with previous generations, the fourth-generation Escape is offered with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Outside of North America, the Ford Escape is marketed in Australia, China, and Taiwan.
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Common 2005 Ford Escape hybrid problems
The Ford Escape Hybrid, introduced in 2005, has been praised for its comfort, quietness, safety, and agility. However, it has also been associated with several common problems that have been reported by owners over the years.
One of the most significant problems with the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid is catastrophic engine failure. This issue has been reported by ten owners, with an average cost to fix of $5,600 and an average mileage of 111,000 miles. The cause of this failure is not explicitly stated, but it is a serious concern for any owner of this vehicle.
Another major problem with the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid is rear differential failure. This issue has been reported by ten owners, with an average cost to fix of $3,100 and an average mileage of 88,000 miles. The rear differential is a critical component of the vehicle's drivetrain, and its failure can result in significant repair costs and downtime.
Power steering failure is also a common problem with the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid. This issue has been reported by seven owners, with an average cost to fix of $2,700 and an average mileage of 120,000 miles. Power steering is essential for safe and easy driving, and its failure can make the vehicle difficult to control, especially at low speeds.
In addition to these specific problems, the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid has also been associated with general issues related to steering, engine, and brakes. Steering problems have been reported by 40 owners, engine problems by 36 owners, and brake problems by 34 owners. These issues can range from minor annoyances to significant safety concerns, and they should be addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic.
Finally, it is worth noting that the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid has been associated with rusting issues, particularly in cold-weather states where road salt is commonly used. This issue can lead to significant structural damage and should be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration.
In summary, the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid has been associated with several common problems, including catastrophic engine failure, rear differential failure, power steering failure, and general issues related to steering, engine, and brakes. Owners of this vehicle should be aware of these issues and take appropriate steps to address them promptly to ensure safe and reliable operation.
What are the most common problems with 2005 Ford Escape?
Top 2005 Ford Escape Problems
- Ignition Misfires. ...
- Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving. ...
- Internal Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models. ...
- Blower Motor Only Works on High. ...
- Coolant Pump on Hybrid May Fail and Cause CEL/Engine Shutdown. ...
- Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models.
How long will a Ford Escape hybrid battery last?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
Average Lifespan: Hybrid batteries typically have a lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Warranty Coverage: Most hybrid car manufacturers offer warranties that cover the hybrid battery for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles.
How many miles will a 2005 Ford Escape last?
How Long Will the 2005 Ford Escape Last? Drivers report that a Ford Escape can last up to 250,000 with regular maintenance. Assuming that you don't have to deal with any premature corrosion, you can expect to reach at least 200,000 before you see any major repairs, with 250,000 being a typical life expectancy.
What are the issues with Ford hybrids?
The problems with the Ford 2.5L hybrid engine primarily stem from manufacturing errors. These issues can lead to engine failures, which are often characterized by breaches of the oil pans or engine blocks. In the event of such an engine failure, engine oil or fuel vapors could be released into the engine compartment.
What are the most common problems with 2005 Ford Escape?
Top 2005 Ford Escape Problems
- Ignition Misfires. ...
- Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving. ...
- Internal Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models. ...
- Blower Motor Only Works on High. ...
- Coolant Pump on Hybrid May Fail and Cause CEL/Engine Shutdown. ...
- Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models.
Is a 2005 Ford Escape a reliable vehicle?
Reliability 8/10 – Premature rust is the only major maintenance issue you need to worry about. Safety 7/10 – Crash test ratings are solid and safety technology, though dated by now, is decent for 2005. Gas Mileage 7/10 – The 2005 Ford Escape averages 22/25 miles to the gallon, city/highway, in the base model.
Is the Ford Escape 2005 fuel efficient?
Is the Ford Escape fuel efficient? The 2005 Escape comes in a variety of trim levels with different levels of fuel efficiency. On the low end is the XLT Sport SUV 4D which gets 18 MPG, with 16 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway.
What are the issues with Ford hybrids?
The problems with the Ford 2.5L hybrid engine primarily stem from manufacturing errors. These issues can lead to engine failures, which are often characterized by breaches of the oil pans or engine blocks. In the event of such an engine failure, engine oil or fuel vapors could be released into the engine compartment.
2005 Ford Escape hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Escape hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Ford Escape hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2005 Ford Escape hybrid
The NHTSA has received 1580 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Ford Escape hybrid. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2005 Ford Escape hybrid vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1FMYU93195K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. Upon starting of the vehicle, the contact placed the vehicle into drive(D); however, the vehicle failed to accelerate upon the depression of the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the check engine warning light illuminated and remained illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact stated while driving at highway speeds, the vehicle independently downshifted and the vehicle failed to accelerate above 30 MPH. The vehicle was shaking, and the vehicle failed to accelerate upon the depression of the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where and the contact was informed that the transmission torque converter was defective and needed to be replaced. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-11
- VIN: 1FMYU93175K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 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).
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMYU03125K
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-10
- VIN: 1FMYU93155K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The right back tire shock and spring mount broke right off
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 1FMCU96H15K
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I had the hybrid battery replaced by Bill Brandt Ford in Brentwood California. A few days after having it replaced. The car broke down on a very dangerous highway. I had the car towed back to Bill Brandt Ford. They replaced the hybrid battery again. I received the car back on May 9. The car just broke down again today. Roughly Bill Brandt Ford had my car for over 250 days. I found a recall one for S as in Sam 19 for my vehicle when I type in the Vin number it says that it doesn’t pertain to my car. But when I look at the recall issue, my car is having the exact same problems. Now I need to have the car towed back yet again to the dealership. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have over $3000 invested in this car now with Bill Brandt Ford and they’ve had it longer than I’ve had it.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: 1FMYU93185K
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: 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.
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-05
- VIN: 1FMYU93185K
- Components: POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Stalled out while driving down hwy. At 70 mph. Cars swirved and I almost got hit from behind due to my vehicle just cutting out. No warning lights came on it just shut off battery light n engine light then came on after vehicle lost power and I had to get off road without causing an accident which almost occurred due to the speed and area I was driving at time vehicle cut out I still have not figured out why it just cut out. Very dangerous all around.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. The contact stated that after her father inspected the vehicle, he made her aware that there was damage to the rear subframe. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the rear subframe needed to be replaced. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V165000 (Structure); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000. The VIN was not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-18
- VIN: 1FMYU02Z65K
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was heading back to Louisville Ky from bowling green Ky when my suv started to slow down and started running rough and check engine light flashed then stayed on I pulled off the road called aaa to have the suv towed back to bowling green to where I could have it checked the next day when I went to start it it was knocking and smoking and wouldn’t take gas. Talked to a local shop and was informed that my motor was blown after he came and looked at it.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-28
- VIN: 1FMYU93195K
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Rear driver's side door will not close/latch. Latch can be manually moved, but does not engage when shutting door. Currently using bungee cords to keep door closed as I have children and no other vehicle. Vehicle was parked, door was opened from inside to allow passenger to exit, but when they attempted to shut the door, it would not latch closed. No prior problems with the door and no prior warnings/lights. Since door won't close, the door ajar dash light is illuminated and I have to turn my interior lights to off so that they don't remain on while I'm driving
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-27
- VIN: 1FMCU93125K
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Drove vehicle to drop off dog at sitters, started vehicle began to make u-turn and vehicle stalled. Attempted to restart, cranks but won't run. Recently purchased from used car dealer, new battery was installed, no trouble up to this point. Began checking usual problems, fuel delivery, crank pos.sensor, cam pos sensor, have no spark. Upon further research this appears to be faulty coils, spark plugs and pcm from factory but no recall has been employed. Possibility of collision during u-turn very likely. Loss of power to all systems could cause extreme risk to life at higher speeds. Ford Motor Company is aware of this problem, with the high number of similar problems in the NHTSA data base it is impossible for them not to know. The NHTSA should force Ford to fix this. If you make a product that can be dangerous if faulty, you are responsible to the public to do the right thing. I think that if the governmental agency responsible for traffic safety won't do their job then a class action lawsuit should be started. I bet I could find a good lawyer in the SF Bay area.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-20
- VIN: 1FMCU94175K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. The contact stated while his son was driving 30 MPH, the vehicle turned off inadvertently. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact's son shifted into neutral(N) and veered to the side of the road. The contact's son was able to restart the vehicle after several attempts. The contact's son then drove to his residence. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-05
- VIN: 1FMYU95HX5K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: unknown
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-24
- VIN: 1FMYU93125K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and accelerating, there was a roaring sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle started accelerating at an uncontrollable speed. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the roadway and turn the vehicle off. The vehicle was not diagnosed however, the dealer stated that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the vehicle was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-14
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMYU02Z95K
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Control arm snapped and frame broke
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-28
- VIN: 1FMYU03105K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This is 2nd time this week car gives no warning, stalls, shuts down while driving for no reason. Happened to a friend about 1 mile from our home. Just totally shuts down. After about up to 10 minutes, able to restart and return home, was mid morning. Last night at 9pm we were driving down about 1 mile from home, no warning and stalled and shut down. We were terrified, was pitch black, no lights and almost ran off into a ditch! Had to used the light on my phone to shine in case traffic was coming. After about 10 terrifying minutes, car restarted and we were able to turn around and return home. This 2005 Ford Escape is unsafe to be on the road or driven. Its unknown what the problem is and in frar for my life and others if its out on the roads.
SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-04
- VIN: 1FMYU93165K
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: 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
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMCU93115K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Sudden unintended acceleration How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The breaks wouldn't take and I ended up stopping when I hit a house Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Called Ford for help and they said to file a report here. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No my car has been always in great working condition
VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-13
- VIN: 1FMCU041X5K
- Components: VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My 2005 ford escape was sitting in my carport for 2 days. I went out to go to the store and the back window was shattered in a million pieces all over the driveway and back bumper. That was also glass inside the car. I called the police and they came out and looked at it and took pictures and I took pictures also they said it had not been vandalized that it must have exploded from the inside out. I read about a lot of other people having the same problem. Ford needs to have a recall on this. It could have happened while I was driving or children could have been hurt sitting in the backseat this is not like
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-06
- VIN: 1FMYU93125K
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When going to pull out of the gas station with my 2 youngest children my Ford Escape would not go into any gear or reverse. Never gave a warning sign sound or anything just would not go into gear. Below is the recall information and what the part is and what the problem is and can cause. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL) Recall for 2005 Ford Escape Recall Announced SEPTEMBER 29 2015 NHTSA Reference #15V606000 If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT Recall for 2005 Ford Escape Recall Announced SEPTEMBER 29 2015 NHTSA Reference #15V606000
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-30
- VIN: 1FMCU96H85K
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake Hydraulic Control Unit failed loss of braking.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-09
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the overdrive warning light was illuminated. The contact parked on the side of the road. The contact stated she depressed the overdrive button. The vehicle was towed to independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be repaired. The vehicle was towed to her son's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V606000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 198,684. The VIN was not available.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-26
- VIN: 1fmyu96h25k
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Abs and master cylinder causing an unsafe braking condition hard brake pedal making it very difficult to stop the car. I replaced the entire brake system including the master cylinder assembly with pedal travel sensor attached. As recommended by Ford dealership. Then I was told that the brake system system had to be bled 2 times. Well after doing this 3 times and replacing the calipers and pads and rotors again. The same situation exists. Now I am told that this car has a different problem and a bulletin was issued by Ford stating that this is a problem with Ford Escape hybrid has to be reprogrammed to allow the master cylinder assembly to link up with the computer to rectify the issue. My car has 42000 miles on the vehicle and I is very dangerous to drive because of the unreliable braking action. Ford does not acknowledge the problem. But there are many people who have had this same issue. What can I do ? Please help me.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-30
- VIN: 1FMYU96H25K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The power steering will repeatedly and unexpectedly go out when driving often when hitting a slight bump or making a turn. This never leads to a code triggered but absolutely could lead to injury or death and has been reported in so many Hybrid Ford Escapes.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-26
- VIN: 1FMYU96H25K
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Ford Escape hybrid problems:
Q&A: 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid Problems & Transmission ...
Jul 4, 2020 ... You can try running some cataclean through the system and it may help. The higher revs could also be due to a transmission that has dirty fluid ...
2005 Ford Escape Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Top 2005 Ford Escape Problems · Ignition Misfires · Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving · Internal Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models.
What Are Common Problems With The 2005 Ford Escape? - CoPilot
Jun 14, 2022 ... The Most Common Problems With 2005 Ford Escapes: · Ignition Misfires · Check engine light with stumbling or hesitation · Internal transfer case ...
Ford Escape Hybrid Brake Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Sep 11, 2006 ... August 2005. I just got back my 2005 hybrid escape after taking it in 5 times in 2 months. The ford dealership just put in a new master ...
Is a 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid too old to buy if I want reliability? : r ...
Apr 19, 2015 ... I am in the market for a used car and really have narrowed it down between a older model Ford Escape Hybrid and a current model Chevy Cruze.
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