I was driving on the expressway. The roads were clear, flat, and smooth. Outside temp was in the 20's. I have been driving for about 30 minutes, after letting the vehicle warm up for 15 minutes, when the rear window exploded for no reason on the express way. There were no bridges or overpasses for anything to fall on it. The rear window defogger had been on for about 15 minutes prior. I recently purchased the vehicle used from a private party. I had driven it less than 200 miles since my purchase. Approximate time of incident 16:36.

- St Francis, WI, USA

I was on my way to work 7am. It was snowing lightly and I briefly turned on the rear window defroster to melt the snow. Approximately 1 mile from home I turned off the defroster while sitting at a red light and heard an extremely loud pop. I looked around and did not observe anything unusual. When I looked in my rearview mirror I saw the defroster wires hanging with pieces of glass attached and the rear windshield wiper motor assembly hanging by a thread, I realized the loud noise was my rear windshield exploding. I headed back home to arrange to have the glass replaced - final cost $369.15. The rear wiper motor was damaged during the explosion. After the windshield was replaced it made a loud vibrating noise that was not there before. Research on the internet indicates that other Ford Escape (04, 05 & 06) owners have experienced the same exact potentially dangerous occurrence. These complaints can be viewed at: www.carcomplaints.com I called Ford owner services at 800-392-3673 and filed a formal complaint. They told me the vehicle was out of warranty and no recall issued but I should bring the vehicle to Ford dealer for inspection and the dealer would decide if repair expense would be covered. The Ford dealer told me the vehicle was out of warranty and no recall was issued and that Ford motor would decide if repair expense would be covered. Dealer told me that Ford will not cover any of the repair expenses. The new windshield wiper motor will cost $150 for the part and $50 to install. I am concerned that if the damaged motor is not replaced, it could cause a major electrical problem not to mention the safety issue of not being able to see out of the tailgate window. The dealer offered to charge me only for the part and absorb the labor to install motor. For obvious reasons this should be a recall and Ford should be held responsible for the repairs; not the consumer who unknowingly purchased a defective and dangerous product.

- Roselle, NJ, USA