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CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2005 Escape has problems where the engine shuts down while driving. Ford finally issued a September 2014 recall. Time will tell if the recall fix really solves the problem.

However the 2005 Escape also has a defect where the PCM (Power Control Module) fries at around 100k miles. Ford extended the PCM warranty to 80,000 miles, but only after most owners were past the mileage limit. Now owners are on the hook for the average repair cost of over $2,000 (!!)

4.6

definitely annoying
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
23,600 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2005 Ford Escape engine problems

engine problem

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2005 Ford Escape Owner Comments

problem #2

Jun 142006

Escape 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 44,800 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Engine pings (pre-detonation) when outside temp is over 85 degrees and speed is over 40 mph. Dealer says no codes are thrown but suggested the latest PCM reflash and injector cleaning at 44,800 miles might solve the problem. A $278 charge and no difference. No refund since they now tell me this is a maintenance item but the dealership also mentions they've seen a lot of these issues with the new E10 gas in the ozone non-attainment region. I explained I do not use E10 since the county in which I reside does not sell E10. They suggest trying different gas brands which doesn't help. After explaining I have another brand of vehicle with a similar size engine that does not ping, they state Ford needs to do something about this issue.

- Leonard, TX, USA

problem #1

Oct 122004

Escape 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 2,400 miles
Oil leak from engine. Gasket replaced.....oil leaked again. Dealer said the crankshaft on the engine was out of specs....engine was replaced ( 2,741 miles ).since then numerous problems have arisen from an air vent tube hitting the fan belt to a loud noise and shaking of the engine that nearly caused a serious accident on the highway...trying to get to the breakdown lane. Now the transmission ( left fron trans axel ) is leaking fluid. The only thing Ford offers is an extended warrantee. This truck is a lemon. This car has been out of service 27 of the last 35 days.

- Peabody, MA, USA

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