Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2004 Ford Escape
The 2004 Ford Escape has several known issues, primarily in suspension and structure, with multiple recalls related to these areas. Specific problems include front wheel bearings and inadequate clearance for throttle cables. There's a significant number of NHTSA complaints and recalls, indicating a need for careful inspection. While some issues like door latches have been recalled, others require attention during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2004 Ford Escape has 8 NHTSA recall campaigns and 499 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 #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 #04V574000 FORD/ACCELERATOR CABLE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Suspension 154 complaints
- Structure 138 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 98 complaints
- Air Bags 45 complaints
- Wheels 34 complaints
- Electrical System 31 complaints
Of the 499 complaints on file, 29 report a crash and 14 a fire; across all 499 complaints, owners report 16 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Front wheel bearing issues
How to check: Inspect the front wheel bearings for any unusual noise or play.
Throttle may stick open
How to check: Ensure throttle returns to idle smoothly; check clearance.
ABS module connector issues
How to check: Check ABS functionality and for any warning lights.
Rear liftgate latching failure
How to check: Test the liftgate latching securely and check for recalls.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises upon starting.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure idle is smooth and stable.
Red flag: Rough or unstable idle
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check throttle response and pedal feel.
Red flag: Sticky or unresponsive throttle
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test brakes for firmness and noise.
Red flag: Spongy feel or grinding noise
- 05
Steering around corners
What to check: Feel for smoothness and response in steering.
Red flag: Loose or unresponsive steering
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe any hesitations or slippage in power.
Red flag: Lack of power or jerking
- 07
Final stop
What to check: Notice any odd sounds upon stopping vehicle.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the throttle cable recall been serviced?
- Have the front wheel bearings ever been replaced?
- Are there any unresolved recalls on the vehicle?
- Has the ABS module shown any issues?
- Was the rear liftgate latch repaired?
- How old is the current brake system?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair history
- Service and maintenance records
- ABS component receipts
- Brake system service records
- Accident repair history
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2004 Ford Escape at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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