2001-2007 Ford Escape: Recall History

Recall History for 2001-2007 Ford Escape

Overview
This document summarizes the recall history for the Ford Escape model years 2001 through 2007 using the NHTSA data snapshot you provided. The snapshot contains no official recalls and no owner complaints for this make/model/year/issue combination.

DATA FINDINGS (as provided)

• Official Recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database
• Owner Complaints: No NHTSA complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination

What this means for owners

• With no recalls listed in the provided data, there are no NHTSA-reported safety-related fixes or campaigns for this specific model-year range in the snapshot.
• The absence of complaints in the dataset does not guarantee that issues never occurred or that future complaints/recalls cannot arise. Real-world data can vary by time, source, and reporting.

Data limitations and transparency

• The dataset is limited to what is published in the provided NHTSA snapshot. It may not reflect recalls that were issued after the snapshot date, recalls in other databases, or issues reported outside NHTSA.
• Vehicle aging and running conditions vary widely; just because no recalls are listed does not mean the vehicle is problem-free.
• If you own one of these vehicles, you should still perform regular maintenance and keep an eye on common aging-Issues that affect this generation of Escape (see Practical Guidance below).

Practical guidance for owners of a 2001-2007 Ford Escape

• Regular maintenance is essential for aging SUVs. Maintain service intervals as recommended in the owner’s manual, and consider slightly newer schedules if you drive in harsh conditions (extreme heat/cold, heavy towing, or frequent stop-and-go city driving).
• Safety check recommendations:
  • Braking system: Inspect pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid. Replace as needed. Worn brakes are a common safety concern on aging vehicles.
  • Steering and suspension: Check ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings, and struts/shocks for wear or leaks.
  • Tires and alignment: Ensure proper tread depth, even wear, and correct alignment to preserve handling and braking performance.
  • Lighting and indicators: Inspect all exterior and interior lights; replace bulbs as needed and fix any malfunctioning indicators.
  • Fluids and cooling: Regularly check engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and hoses. Watch for leaks or unusual smells.
• Common wear points to monitor (general guidance for this era’s SUVs):
  • Transmission: Older automatics can develop shifting hesitations or sluggish performance. If you notice hard shifts or slipping, have the transmission diagnosed early.
  • Cooling system: Radiator hoses, thermostat, water pump, and coolant can degrade over time; leaks or overheating require attention.
  • Electrical components: Ignition coils, sensors (e.g., MAP/oxygen sensors), and the alternator can show aging symptoms.
  • Exhaust: Look for rust or leaks around exhaust hangers and catalytic converter.
• VIN-based recall lookup: Even though the provided data shows no recalls, always verify recall status for your specific vehicle by checking your VIN on NHTSA’s recall site or through Ford’s official recall portals. Recalls are assigned to VINs, and individual cars may have recalls that don’t appear in a broad summary.
• Used-car considerations: If you’re buying a used 2001-2007 Escape, obtain a full vehicle history report, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, and request a current recalls check on the VIN.

2025 cost estimates for common 2001-2007 Ford Escape maintenance and repairs
Note: These are typical ranges as of 2025, and actual prices vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and part choices. They are provided to help you budget. Labor rates in many areas commonly range from about $80–$150 per hour; parts vary by OEM vs. aftermarket.

• Brake service (pads and rotors per axle)
  • Parts: $60–$150 per axle (pads may be $20–$60 per rotor)
  • Labor: $100–$250 per axle
  • Typical full front and rear job: $300–$700
• Battery replacement (12V)
  • Parts: $100–$200
  • Labor: often included with installation or $10–$50
• Alternator replacement
  • Parts: $150–$400
  • Labor: $100–$300
  • Total: $250–$700
• Water pump replacement (often with timing belt on some engines; assess with mechanic)
  • Parts: $40–$150
  • Labor: $200–$500
  • Total: $300–$650 (may be higher if timing belt/related components are included)
• Radiator replacement
  • Parts: $150–$500
  • Labor: $150–$350
  • Total: $300–$850
• Thermostat and cooling system service
  • Parts: $20–$60
  • Labor: $100–$200
  • Total: $120–$260
• Spark plugs and ignition service (per set, depending on engine)
  • Parts: $20–$60 (copper) or up to $150–$300 (iridium/platinum on some engines)
  • Labor: $100–$250
  • Total: $120–$500
• Transmission service (fluid change)
  • Parts: $20–$60 (transmission fluid)
  • Labor: $100–$250
  • Total: $120–$310
• Transmission replacement or overhaul (rare, if significant failure)
  • Parts: $800–$2,500 (rebuilt) or higher for OEM
  • Labor: $500–$1,500
  • Total: $1,300–$4,000+
• Head gasket/engine cooling repairs (if severe engine issue)
  • Parts: $50–$300 (gaskets, sealant)
  • Labor: $1,000–$3,000 (highly engine-dependent)
  • Total: $1,100–$3,300+

Notes on cost estimates

• Labor rates vary widely by region and shop. Independent shops are often less expensive than dealer-based service.
• The actual cost for your vehicle depends on engine type (2.0L/2.3L/3.0L variants), transmission, accessibility of components, and whether any related components are replaced at the same time (e.g., timing belt replacement often includes water pump).
• If you plan to sell or trade-in, obtaining a detailed estimate before major maintenance can help you budget and decide which items to address.

Future-proofing and planning

• Proactive maintenance is the best strategy for aging vehicles. Regularly monitor fluid conditions, listen for unusual noises, and address issues promptly to prevent more costly damage later.
• Keep records of all maintenance and repairs; this helps with resale value and when evaluating recalls or service campaigns in the future.
• If you rely on your Escape for family transport or long trips, consider a pre-trip inspection before long journeys, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Data limitations and next steps

• This recall history reflects only the data provided in your snapshot. If you want a more comprehensive view, you can:
  • Check NHTSA’s official recall database with your vehicle’s VIN for any active or past recalls.
  • Cross-reference with Ford’s customer service recall portal.
  • Look up service campaigns and TSBs (technical service bulletins) from Ford for this generation; note that TSBs are not recalls but may indicate known issues and recommended actions.
• If you’d like, I can help you draft a checklist to verify the current condition of your specific Escape (year by year) or help you interpret a set of maintenance records you have.

Conclusion
Based on the provided data, there are no official recalls or owner complaints listed for the 2001–2007 Ford Escape in the NHTSA dataset you supplied. Owners should still follow proactive maintenance best practices and stay informed about recalls via VIN-specific checks and official manufacturer channels. The 2025 cost ranges above give a practical budgeting framework for routine maintenance and common repairs you might encounter as this generation ages.

If you want, share your specific model year and mileage, and I can tailor a maintenance and inspection plan with more precise cost ranges for your situation.