2002 Ford Escape XLT review from North America
"Great except for being left stranded in below zero conditions due to the transmission failing"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Went through 2 transmissions. 2001-2004 escapes have a problem with the pump in the transmission. It does not work is severely cold weather (below zero).
General comments?
The escape has the benefit of 4x4 but handles much more like a car. So you have the reliability of four wheel drive in the snow, but you don't have to sacrifice the smooth handling of a car.
It is very scary how the transmission will quite on you and leave you stranded on the side of the road when it's -20 degrees F. Ford will only put in a new transmission and not fix the actual reason that it has left you stranded. If you live in a cold region I do not recommend buying a 2001-2004 escape. I was told that they fixed the problem in the 2005 with a newly designed transmission.
If it was not for the transmission this would be an almost perfect vehicle. It looks sharp, runs great, and is a good price.
Recommended reviews
| This vehicle is a MAJOR potential money pit |
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| I do like this vehicle, but at this point will not recommend any Ford products to anyone |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 250 miles |
| Most recent distance | 19000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th November, 2004 |