Skip to main content

2002 FORD Escape

10 recalls Risk Grade: A Most severe issue: Critical

All recalls are free to repair at your local dealership. Contact your dealer to schedule service.

Known Safety Recalls

Critical #15V606000 Plain English
Component

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
What Happened
The shift lever in your Ford Escape or Mercury Mariner is a crucial part that connects the gear selector to your transmission. In some vehicles rebuilt with a specific transmission between 2015, the bolt that holds this lever in place might not be tightened correctly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the shift lever comes loose while you're driving, you won't be able to shift gears normally. When you think you've put the car in park, it might not actually be in park. This means the car could roll away, putting you and others at risk of being hit or injured.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will inspect and fix the shift lever bolt or replace the entire lever assembly, free of charge. Don't wait – schedule the repair as soon as you receive the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured March 31, 2001, to September 1, 2009. The affected vehicles are equipped with either a 2.3L or 3.0L engine and have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
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.
Original — Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmissions and either tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S28.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #12V353000 Plain English
Component

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The speed control cable connects the accelerator pedal to your Escape's engine. In older 2001-2004 models with the 3.0L V6 engine, the cable might get pinched between the engine cover and the cable connector, causing it to stick.
Risk if Unfixed
If the cable sticks, your accelerator pedal won't move freely, and your vehicle could speed up uncontrollably. This makes it hard to stop or slow down, and it could cause a crash, serious injury, or even death.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will increase the clearance between the engine cover and the cable connector to prevent the sticking issue. This repair is free. If the parts aren't available yet, your dealer will disconnect the speed control cable as a temporary fix until the parts arrive.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control manufactured from October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Original — Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. The safety recall began August 3, 2012. Remedy parts are expected to be available in mid-August 2012. Until then dealers will disconnect the speed control cable as an interim remedy, if parts are not available at the time of an owner's service appointment. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #12V005000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The brake master cylinder reservoir cap in your Escape is a small plastic cover that helps keep brake fluid inside. In some 2001-2002 Escapes, this cap can leak brake fluid, which could get onto the electrical wiring for your anti-lock brakes.
Risk if Unfixed
If brake fluid leaks onto the ABS wiring, it could cause the wiring to corrode and even catch fire, leading to a potentially serious fire in your vehicle.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will replace the brake master cylinder reservoir cap and modify the ABS wiring to prevent a fire. If parts aren't available right away, you'll be asked to park your vehicle outside until the parts arrive – but don't worry, it's free.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 22, 1999, THROUGH JULY 19, 2002, EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP THAT COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF BRAKE FLUID LEAKS FROM THE CAP, IT COULD COME IN CONTACT WITH THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
CORROSION CAN DEVELOP IN THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR LEADING TO MELTING, SMOKE OR A FIRE.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP AND THE ABS ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WILL BE MODIFIED. AN INTERIM LETTER WAS MAILED ON JANUARY 20, 2012. DUE TO A PARTS DELAY, HOWEVER, THE REMEDY MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE CURRENTLY. IF PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, FORD WILL INSTRUCT OWNERS TO PARK THEIR VEHICLES OUTSIDE UNTIL SUCH TIME AS PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332. THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN IS RELATED TO 07V-156.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #07V156000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The ABS module is the computer that helps you stop safely. In some Ford SUVs, a wire seal in the ABS module connector might be missing or loose, letting dust or water in.
Risk if Unfixed
If this happens, the ABS could fail while you're driving, causing the ABS light to turn on. In rare cases, the module could overheat, producing a burning smell, smoke, or even a fire, which could happen when the car is on or off.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will inspect the ABS module connector, fix or replace it, and check the ABS module itself for damage or corrosion. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MIGHT CAUSE AN ABS MALFUNCTION THAT WOULD ILLUMINATE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT, AND IN SOME CASES, THE MODULE MAY OVERHEAT RESULTING IN BURNING ODOR, SMOKE, AND/OR FIRE. THIS CONDITION COULD OCCUR EITHER WHEN THE VEHICLE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE OFF POSITION OR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR TO THE ABS MODULE FOR MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS, AND REPAIR OR REPLACE THE HARNESS CONNECTOR AS APPROPRIATE. THE DEALER WILL ALSO INSPECT THE CONNECTOR ON THE ABS MODULE AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE CORRODED OR DAMAGED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #07E023000 Plain English
Component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER

Manufacturer
CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
What Happened
The master cylinder is a crucial part in your vehicle's braking system. It's like the heart of your brakes, responsible for sending hydraulic pressure to the brake pads when you press the pedal. In some cases, the seal on the master cylinder can fail, allowing brake fluid to leak out.
Risk if Unfixed
If the seal fails, brake fluid could leak out, causing your brakes to fail. This can lead to poor braking performance, making it harder to stop your vehicle in time, and potentially causing a crash.
Free Fix
The manufacturer, Cardone, will notify you and offer to replace the faulty master cylinder with a new one, free of charge. You should contact Cardone at 1-800-777-4780 to schedule the repair.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Original — Remedy
CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Critical #04V165000 Plain English
Component

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The transmission control module in your SUV is a computer that helps your transmission shift gears smoothly. In certain 3.0L V6 models, this module might not work properly during hard braking, causing the engine to stall.
Risk if Unfixed
If the engine stalls while you're driving and then brake, you could lose control of your vehicle and crash.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will update the transmission control module with new software, ensuring it works correctly. This repair is free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 ENGINES, DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWER CONTROL MODULE (PCM) WITH THE APPROPRIATE CALIBRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 21, 2004. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
High Priority #15E045000 Plain English
Component

SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING

Manufacturer
Timken Company
What Happened
The front wheel bearing is a critical part that supports your vehicle's front wheels, helping you steer and brake safely. In some cases, the wrong-sized wheel bearing was made, which could compromise your vehicle's stability.
Risk if Unfixed
If you're using the incorrect wheel bearing, it could cause your vehicle's brakes and steering to malfunction, making it harder to control your car and increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your dealer will replace the incorrect wheel bearing with a properly sized one, at no cost to you. If you've purchased an affected wheel bearing, contact Timken's customer service at 1-866-984-6536 to arrange for a replacement.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #14V165000 Plain English
Component

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
What Happened
The lower control arm in your Escape is a critical part that connects the steering system to the frame of your vehicle. It's prone to rust in certain states with high humidity and salted roads.
Risk if Unfixed
If the control arm fails, it could detach while you're driving, making it extremely hard to steer your vehicle. This could easily lead to a serious accident.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will install a reinforced cross-brace to prevent the control arm from corroding and breaking. This repair is completely free, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Escape vehicles manufactured October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. These vehicles may experience excessive corrosion at the forward attachment of the lower control arm.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A separation of the lower control arm can result in a significant loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a newly designed reinforcement cross-brace, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S02.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #04V602000 Plain English
Component

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The rear gate latch on your vehicle is a critical part that keeps your liftgate shut. In some 2001-2005 models, this latch might not work properly, even if you think you've locked it.
Risk if Unfixed
If the latch fails, the gate could swing open during a crash, which could lead to injury or damage to your vehicle.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will replace the faulty latch parts for free. This repair is part of the recall, and you should schedule it as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTIITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 206, 'DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS.' THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCHING SYSTEM DOES NOT MEET THE INERTIA LOAD REQUIREMENT IN ONE DIRECTION.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
IF THE LIFTGATE IS LEFT UNLOCKED, THERE IS THE POTENTIAL THAT IT MAY OPEN DURING A CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH RELEASE ROD, THE RELEASE ROD ATTACHMENT CLIP AND THE DOOR HANDLE RETURN SPRING. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →
Under Review #04V574000 Plain English
Component

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES

Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The accelerator cable in your vehicle helps control how fast your engine runs. In certain vehicles with 3.0L V6 engines, this cable might not let the throttle return to idle properly.
Risk if Unfixed
If the throttle doesn't return to idle, your engine might stay at a higher speed than usual. This could make it harder to stop your vehicle quickly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will replace the faulty accelerator cable for you, at no cost. You should contact them for an appointment as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES BUILT WITH 3.0L V6 ENGINES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE MAY PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
AN UNEXPECTED INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED MAY INCREASE STOPPING DISTANCE AND MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR CABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 10, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
View full recall details → Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →

Browse by Component

Other FORD Escape Years

Related Pages