Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2001 Ford Escape
The 2001 Ford Escape has extensive recall history and numerous owner complaints, particularly in engine cooling, electrical systems, and power train. Due to the significant number of recalls and complaints, prospective buyers should carefully inspect and question the vehicle's history and condition. The higher number of issues and recalls makes it a vehicle that must be examined thoroughly before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2001 Ford Escape has 15 NHTSA recall campaigns and 996 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15V606000 Rebuilt Transmission Shift Lever May Disengage NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15E045000 Front Wheel Bearing has Wrong Dimensions NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V165000 Lower Control Arm Corrosion-Regional Recall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V353000 Speed Control Cable Connector Interference NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V005000 ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07V156000 ABS MODULE ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07E023000 MASTER CYLINDER LEAK NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V602000 FORD/FMVSS 206/REAR LIFTGATE DOOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V165000 FORD/ENGINE STALLING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V507000 FORD/SEAT BELT BUCKLE COVER NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V387002 FORD/WINDSHIELD WIPER NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V277001 FORD/FUEL LINE O-RING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V260001 FORD/INCORRECT REAR HUBS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V210001 FORD/SPEED CONTROL CABLE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V223001 FORD/STEERING WHEEL NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 281 complaints
- Electrical System 135 complaints
- Power Train 126 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 121 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 107 complaints
- Air Bags 63 complaints
Of the 996 complaints on file, 76 report a crash and 58 a fire; across all 996 complaints, owners report 75 injuries and 3 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Throttle may stick open
How to check: Inspect engine cover for clearance issues.
Potential linkage issues
How to check: Check that floor shift operates smoothly.
ABS module could short
How to check: Look for brake fluid leaks near ABS.
Mis-assembled steering nut
How to check: Check steering wheel for play.
Incorrect front wheel bearings
How to check: Inspect front wheels for unusual noise.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine noises; check idle smoothness.
Red flag: Rough idle or knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Monitor dashboard indicator lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights stay on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Brake noise or delayed response
- 04
Low-speed turns
What to check: Feel for steering smoothness and control.
Red flag: Resistance or noises in steering
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess power delivery and transmission shifts.
Red flag: Hesitation or slipping during shifts
- 06
Cruising on highway
What to check: Ensure steering is stable and responsive.
Red flag: Wandering or vibrations
- 07
Final parking
What to check: Try all power features (windows, locks).
Red flag: Features unresponsive or erratic
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission been replaced?
- Have recall repairs been completed?
- Any past engine throttle issues?
- History of brake fluid leaks?
- Steering wheel ever had repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Full service history
- Proof of completed recall repairs
- Warranty documentation, if applicable
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2001 Ford Escape at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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