2003 Ford Escape Reviews - Page 2 of 4

Paint peeling on lift-gate at glass corners and on rear quarter panels where bottom edge of cargo glass meets body panel.

Paint began peeling several weeks prior to scheduled appointment for annual inspection (at time of appointment paint was only peeling on lift-gate - has since spread to side panels). We requested the service department examine the paint problem and advise on warranty and/or Ford's position on repair. We were informed the peeling paint is not covered under warranty and not covered by Ford. The estimate to repaint the lift-gate only was just shy of $500.00 USD.

Excellent vehicle for varied terrain and climate prone to weather with snow and ice, i.e. Central Pennsylvania. Definitely not an "SUV" or off-road vehicle though.

Excellent fuel economy and agile - drives and handles like a car/vehicle with lower center of gravity.

Very poor materials both interior and exterior.

I purchased a 2003 Escape in June 2003. It is one of the gold colored ones. It has only 17,000 miles on it.

The paint has just begun to peel off of the rear tailgate close to the window. There is no primer below, just metal.

Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited has determined that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain 2002 through 2004 Escape vehicles.

On my vehicle, it is possible that the accelerator cable may prevent the throttle from returning to the idle position, possibly resulting in elevated engine speeds while driving. An unexpected increase in engine idle speed may increase stopping distance and may result in a vehicle crash without warning.

My recall notice was sent out on January 18, 2005 and after receiving the notice I called to book an appointment to have the issue resolved. I was told that the parts were not in stock at my dealer and that they would call me once they received the parts.

It is now February 21, 2005 and to date, the parts are still not available at my dealer. They confirmed that other dealers would most likely not have the parts in stock as well, considering that each dealer received an equal amount of parts.

My concern is that this is our family vehicle and we have a 13 month old which rides is in vehicle. Should the accelerator become stuck and I get in an accident, I wonder who will win this court case... little me or Ford with their group of Super Lawyers.