2003 FORD Escape

FUN TO DRIVE SINCE 2005!

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 5

This V6 SUV is more economical than you would think. I've gotten geat gas mileage for 11 years. And it's oh so fun to drive. So dependable that the only time it didn't crank, I needed a battery, ONCE. Best car I ever owned. Bought it used in 2005 with 38000 miles on it. It now has 84,000 plus & still going strong Had the brake pads changed once. Always got the oil changed regularly. Apparently it really makes a difference.

The unreliable Ford

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1 Safety Rating: 1 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating:

As soon as my warrenty expired my ford fell apart. First it was a 3300 $transmission, then 1500$ rebuilding the front end, then the wheel cencers for 1000$, then the driveshaft bearing 500$, and now ford says it needs a new transfer gear box for 5000$! This car is unreliable, and constanly breaks down. i could have got a better car with the money I have spent fixing this one.

I would buy another one today!

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating:

I have owned my 2003 Ford Escape 4x4 for the last 5 years. We bought it used with about 90,000 miles on it. Now I have only put 30, 000 on it myself, but it has been a great little truck for my family. It fit two carseats comfortably in the back, with easy access to them through the side doors. The drivers' seat is comfortable and adjustable. My only issue was the placement of the ignition keyhole. My husband replaced the battery with a great cold-start one early on, and it has started every single time in cold Ohio winters. He did the brakes regularly, and the only other issue we had was with the coil packs. Once we replaced those, the car ran perfectly. It handles easily and feels very small compared the the mini-van we just had to invest in. I am looking forward to owning one again someday!

my first ford

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating: 5

i got this at a buy here pay here.... and for the price wasn't bad handles great

Not too bad for a 13 year old car

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 4 Value Rating: 4

I bought my 2003 Ford Escape XLT with leather seats and a sunroof in February of 2015 with 130,000 miles on it. The moment I got it I gave it a tune up and a oil change a month later I had to replace the front driver side strut and it's been good ever since. I read reviews online that the transmission sometimes has problems on these cars so I decided to install a transmission oil cooler which is supposed to extend the life of the transmission it shifts smoothly by the way and the engine is good too. The battery light has been on ever since I got it but there is nothing wrong with the battery or the alternator I had it looked at by more than one mechanic and they all said the same thing one of them said it could be a bad connection to the alternator he had customers with the same exact car and the same exact problem and he said he replaced the alternator only for the light to come back on so he changed the alternator connection and that solved the problem just recently I drove 8 hours to Buffalo, NY and 8 hours back with that battery light on and nothing happened. Don't expect a 13 year old car to be perfect it's going to wear down a bit and end up needing a repair no matter the make or model Ford, BMW, Volvo, Nissan, Honda, Chevy, etc. I am satisfied with my Ford Escape

Crummy for a used vehicle

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

When I bought this it was 10 years old so I was not expecting much, but no matter how I look at it I am disappointed. Paint chipping and rusting is a serious issue on the exterior, the suspension is harsh, loudly clunking, and has been a money pit. I understand in buying used vehicles that there are fixes waiting to happen, but I didn't expect the magnitude that came with this thing! It may have been a nice vehicle when it was new but has not stood up to the test of time well. Other vehicles I've driven that gave me less issues than this were an 03' Ram 1500 dually, an 05' Mitsubishi Endeavor, and 07' Hyundai Entourage.

Just sold it with 375,000 miles and running

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: Technology Rating: Value Rating:

This is the best vehicle I had ever owned I just sold it with 375,000 miles on it and still running, very little problems with this vehicle since I owned it, I will buy another Escape and hope I still have the luck I had with this one.

Whats not to love!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I do not see any flaws in this vehicle whats so ever. It gets great gas mileage, very very spacious. Extremely comfrotable leather interior. Engine is strong and tough. Anyone who says this car sucks or is bad is pulling it out of their a$$. I have owned the escape for nearly five years now and it has 197570 miles on it, I have never had to do any repairs except brakes rotors and oil changes with a few services for recalls.

Worst car I've ever had

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I haven't even had this car for a good year its at 90,000 miles and since day one ive had numerous problems with it. I had my winshield washer fluid never work along with my cigarette lighter(s) i dont smoke but i would have liked to put a gps in considering me and my husband travel. everytime i turn on my a/c my rpm shoots up and its start this stuttering thing and even after the a/c is turned off it still stutters. i DO NOT get 18 mpg and when i had bought it i was told i was to get 20 mpg i have to put 50 or more in it EVERY WEEK the interior as well as the exterior is falling apart the fabric on the doors are peeling off on each door and the paint is peeling off outside

great value

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2003 Ford Excape LXT has been a great, reliable vehicle. It doesn't handle as well as my Jeep Cherokee in the Minnesota Winters but it isn't as heavy either. No complaints. I change the oil evert 3000 and rotate the tires every 6000 like clockwork. At 95,000 miles....other than routine maintenance like brakes, replaced tie rod ends once, I haven't done anything major to it. Looks like new!

I love my escape!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

My escape has 175,000 and has only needed minor maintenance repairs.

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has been the best car we have had. We keep up on maintenance and change oil every 3000 miles. This is my wife's car and she treats it much better than I treat my car. I have a ford explorer 1997 with 235,000 and no real problems with same water pump. Both cars are great. This SUV is very fun to drive in the snow. Handles great.

It's A winner

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've driven cross-country from west coast to east. I call my car the Willy Nelson b/c its on the road again and again. I love my car. It's old now I find myself having to replace brakes a lot often but I think its b/c I'm being taken advantage of by mechanics.

I'm Escaping Ford to get a Yugo

Performance: 2 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Ford, don't know what you're doing, but I know you're not building a tough, reliable vehicle. Within 35k miles: trans. shot, paint shot, brakes shot. Stalls periodically. The geniuses at dealer, at the ones who could form complete sentences, can't find anything wrong. Will never, ever, so much as drive by another Ford dealership. I'm done with them.

116,000 miles later

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The driving experience is excellent, the handling, cornering, acceleration and braking are all above average or better. I was aware of several specific shortcomings of the vehicle, and all were solved by add-ons at purchase. For example: Several ford models are known to have transmissions issues at 100,000 miles+. This is solved by purchasing the TOWING package that adds a transmission cooling system & radiator to prevent trans damage. My transmission has never so much as slipped. The soft paint & rust issue is partly solved by a rubberized undercoating and wheel well sheathing. Overall the car is wonderful and would buy it again.

Love this car,

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love driving this car, have gotten excellent gas mileage (from 22-28 mpg usually the higher end when traveling), no work other than oil changes, regular break work from in city traffic. It takes the mountains like a dream, comfortable for 3 traveling long distance and for all the luggage w/ the storage area in back. Great for moving items due to the back seats lowering. Loved it so much bought another one in 2008 and still have them both. Would buy a third if either of these ever give out.

Great drive especially in the snow

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love driving this car. It drives especially well in the snow and the awd makes it so you don't even have to engage 4wd most of the time. I live in the mountains and it is a great car. I love the room in the back of the car where adults can easily sit. I also love the cargo space in the back. The seats lay down flat if you need more cargo space.

Love It

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I researched quite a bit before i purchased this car. I got the limited because i didn't like the plastic on the other ones. I think the SUV had one owner previously. I live in Germany now and my SUV is small enough to fit in most compact spaces but it still has a lot of interior room. And my SUV goes through the snow and mud of these county roads like no other. I have had a few issues the 6 Disc CD changer gave out a week after i got it. It is a little noisy driving but yo get that with most SUVs. And it almost hesitates when i am driving around 45. The mechanics tell me that some vehicles just do it. Slightly annoying. However, i have been having issues with my sun roof hestitating to open.

I love my Escape

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car new. I have had no real issues with it other than brake wear (my driving habbits-not the cars fault. Had to get new rotors twice.) & the starter went out @ 35K. The interior has taken a beating from my kids but a little Folex & it looks like new again. The radio is ok. I love my 6 disc CD changer. It doesn't have Aux plugs so no I-pod in the car. The thing is driving habbits determine alot how your car is going to perform. Flippling from reverse to drive while still moving will screw the transmission on any car. Some driver's migt want to examine their habits before the scrap the car. Overall I'd buy another one if my credit wasn't messed up with this economy!

problem ford

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have had this car fixed 5 times. It still will not start. I keep a journal and I have to crank it up to 12 times to get it to start in the middle of the month every month, and 6 times every time on the first week of each month. I think this is an electrical problem. I have had the idle valve replaced and it still will not start. Also has had 3 recalls done on it and I just had the power steering hose replaced on it last week. I do not know what to do just keep begging Ford to fix it so that I will not be late for work anymore. Cranking problem started 2 years ago and I have been told that this car can not be fixed. It only has 30,000 miles on it.

Nothing but trouble with this car

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I acquired this vehicle with the idea of great quality. Big Mistake! 1 week after purchasing it, the engine light came on, the fuel door open light came on, the battery light came on, etc... Took it into dealership where I was told that the lights were on from a short in the wiring. 1 week later while slowing down to make a turn during rush hour traffic, the car completely shuts off. This happened about 15 times with the dealership telling me they could find anything wrong with it. Come to find out there was a recall. The trans. started slipping not more than 3 months after that. Brand new rear tire was bald in less than 3 months from rubbing. Smelled burning oil always. radio buttons broke

My honeymoon with Ford is over!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought this car from a dealership with about 40,000 miles. I drive less than 10,000 miles a year but the repair costs on this car have ended my honeymoon with Ford -I cant wait to pay it off and never, ever tough a Ford! I had a Mazda before and then decided to try American but this was a big mistake. Unless Ford works on its quality, they will definitely collapse. I just got a Honda for my wife! –The catalyst convertor, peeling paint, the engine light never halts!

Best Car I Ever Owned

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I went to buy a replacement Windstar in the fall of '03 and drove home in a red 2WD Escape. My wife and I fell in love with it immediately. Since then we have changed he oil and filter every 2500 miles and replaced filters and belts. The factory tires were horrible and screamed and moaned. I replaced them with Michelins and turned the Escape into a whole new, quiet, smooth-riding vehicle. Other than that the car has not been in the shop. It has required ZERO repairs in 65K miles. None. Zilch. Nada. This is far and away the best, most dependable automobile I have ever owned.

Great SUV, fun to drive!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After only driving cars, I wanted something bigger, especially since I have a child now. I researched alot of vehicles and liked the reviews on this one. With 5 star crash test ratings, and its reasonable price, you can't go wrong. I feel safe driving, and it's alot of fun. The only drawbacks are the noisy ride, and the crappy CD player (it ate 2 of my CDs!). Other than that, great little SUV!

DO NOT BUY

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Although I have enjoyed this vehicle because I have had very little engine problems I am DISGUSTED with the paint problems. A few months ago I noticed blisters in the paint job on hatchback and hood. Now the paint is just peeling off and no coverage. I have heard and read literally hundreds of complaints...yet Ford will not listen. This is a serious problem as my vehicle now looks awful.

Need 4wd on fire runs

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought it bewcause I needed 4wd to get to some of the fires I respond to. I love the way the truck handles at speed. The accelleration allows me to get out of situations before they become a problem. The only complaint is the transmission. It doesn't seem to shift smoothly all the time, especially in the winter. Other than that I will certainly buy another.

Transmission Shot

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

This was a bank repo that appeared to be well taken care of. My wife drives this and likes the way it handles in snow and bad weather. We have never had this vehicle off road or done any towing and now at 123,000 miles the transmission is slipping when it's cold. Our mechanic say's it's about to go out and replacement with rebuilt tranny is about $3,500. I replaced my Winstar tranny too at about 60,000 miles. See a trend here with Ford transmissions. I do and will think long and hard before buying another.

Can't wear brakes out

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought this loaded XLT with leather for my wife. I call it the red rocket. Goes like stink. Just changed the original tires at 100000 km's. Still has the original brake shoes and pads, half worn only. Very agile and fun to drive. great gas mileage. Tons of leg and cargo room. Easy controls to reach on dash. Only complaint is the CD player is a pain to load while driving. Selecting a slot to put a CD in should not be an option. It should be automatic. Just bought an 06 LTD I like them so much. My Expedition is a tank and can travel over any terrain. This SUV is not meant for that. It's fun and looks cool and is practical for everyday use

Great Safe Vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my Escape new & have loved it from day one. With over 108K miles, it still has a lot of power & handles very well. The vehicle is very roomy, but is not difficult to maneuver like larger SUVs. I was just involved in a serious accident while driving my Escape and I have to commend it from a safety perspective. I was sitting at a red light and was hit from behind by a utility truck traveling at a high rate of speed. I was then pushed into the full sized truck in front of me. Unfortunately the Escape is a total loss, but I "escaped" with only a broken toe and a few bruises. I am very impressed with the overall safety of this vehicle and would certainly recommend it for any family.

Stay away from the Escape

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I purchased this vehicle new in December of 2002 and everything was fine until April of 2007. The transmission failed and cost approx. $4000 to repair with only 60,000 miles on it. Then in January of 2008 it was having problems again losing power between 35 mph and 50 mph. I took it back to the dealer that fixed it before and they told me it was a mass air flow sensor so I fixed it - although it didn't seem to be running right. Then just a month ago more problems. They told me it was the catylitic converter. So I fixed again. Today I need a new engine. I'm not going to fix anymore. Oh buy the way they only offered $4000 for the trade in as is on a new car. I put $6000 in repairs in 1 year.

Love my Escape!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought it used and never regretted it. It's roomy and comfy. Has everything I wanted.

The Honeymoon is Over

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I purchased the car used with low mileage. I felt very safe driving it and it was a fun car to drive. It had a very loud ride. I paid a lot of money for new tires to make the ride quieter. I've replaced numerous belts on the car and an alternator in 2005 right after my warranty ran out! The car has had 2 recalls in 2 years too. At 63,000 miles the tranny went. I owed $7,000 on the car and a new tranny was $4,000. Ford gave me a great deal on a trade-in and now I'm trying out the Explorer!!

Pretty nice

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall, I've had a pretty good experience. It's nice and roomy and I love the bumper because I have lightly bumped a few things and no scratches. The ride is smooth and handles nicely. Even though its 4 years old people still tell me it still has that new car smell. Only complaints are the matte finish on the radio is chipping off, the cover of the gas cap sometimes pops open, and my biggest complaint is the CD player. Ever since I first got the car it sometimes makes this horrible noise and pops the CD out, I can usually pop the CD back and play normally though.

The Family Escape

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Between my mother and I, we've had this Escape since 2003. We both love it. My major problems is that my fuel economy has been tanking since about 40000 miles or so.

I love my Escape!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I've only had my 2003 Escape for about three weeks now but I do love it! This is my first SUV and it took a little getting used to but now that I am, I'll never go back to driving a car. The Escape handles great, has great acceleration and looks really sporty. The interior is roomy except I think that the seats are too short. This is the only thing that keeps the comfort level from being perfect. The stereo has great sound and I love having the six disc cd changer in the dash. I miss the outside temp,compass displays and lighted vanity mirrors from my car. Waiting for snow to check out the 4 wheel drive as this will be my first experience with it. Overall, it's a great vehicle.

Escape Limited

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The first SUV owned. Loaded with all the extras. The V-6 is outstanding. Cruises at 80 mph effortlessly. 5 1/2 hour trips to the beach in comfort - 25.5 mpg hwy. Great front bucket seats, radio/CD player is excellent, but could use better speakers. Adequate cargo space for dog and luggage. Roof rack is a plus, but rarely used. I don't care what Consumer Reports says - the Escape is the best compact SUV on the market. I will buy a new one with a navigation system as soon as available. Until then, at 90,000+ miles, my Escape continues to march without a hiccup.

Get the extended warrenty

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I loved my Ford Escape until the transmission went out at 56,000 miles. I have heard from others that this is common for Ford vehicles. I thought it had a powertrain warranty and did not purchase the extended warranty. If you decide to buy this SUV, pay the extra money for the extended warranty.

Transmission problems -get Extended Coverage

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

My transmission suddenly went at 63,000 miles. I didn't purchase extended warranty coverage when I bought the vehicle. Big mistake. It cost me $1,900.00 to have the transmission rebuilt by the dealer and $300.00 to rent a car for the week as the dealer didn't have a loaner. The dealer found a cracked piston and thought it might possibly have been a bad casting. I got no help from Ford. I am also having trouble with my instruments. They tell me I will have to replace the whole dashboard to fix these. The vehicle was just paid off last year and now I have big repair expenses. I feel Ford should put more quality in important parts of this vehicle. I feel the Escape is overpriced.

Overall Excellent!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Outstanding value overall. Fun to drive and extremely good on gas(front wheel drive model)

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle has met my expectations since my very first test drive. It was great to feel the smooth acceleration as I stepped on the gas and listened to the mighty little 3.0 come to life. It handles the road and curves like something that you might expect in a European concours. It's been loyal and fun to drive and my girls, the 100 lb. yellow labs, love it too!

Escape 2003 review

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love driving my Escape. It is the first vehicle I ever bought so it will always have a special place in my heart. It is a great car that I have used to move twice, haul material from Home Depot and carted my husband and dog around town. It was nice enough that I wasn't embarrassed to valet park at some of Atlanta's nicer restaurants.

I WILL BUY ESCAPE AGAIN!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought mine used in 2003. It had 15K miles on it when I drove it off the lot. I fell in love with it the moment I test drove it. It handles very well, and is very comfortable to travel in. I have 3 children (15, 10 & 6) and they fit into the back seat with room left between them. I love my Escape, and when it is time, I will trade for another one.

Transmission problems

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought my Escape new, but unfortunately I didn't buy the extended warranty. Even thought it was well maintained, at 54,000 miles the transmission failed. I had it towed to a Ford dealer, and then had to get a rental car to get home, since I was out of town. It cost me over $3000 to get the transmission replaced, plus rental car expenses, with no help from Ford customer service. I can't recommend this car for reliability, since I've since heard of others with similar problems.

don't know yet

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

My husband and I bought this vehicle used. It's been ok. Going from a Saturn SL2 to this is pretty amazing. It sits so high. Getting in and out is wonderful. So far we are fine with this suv. I don't like where the windshield wipers are next to the steering wheel. The brakes make a lot of noise; other than that it seems like Ford did an ok job with this one; we will see in the future.

LOVE IT

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I not only have 4 kids, but a dog too, My sons love to borrow it to go skiing, daughter just recently learned to drive in it. I have a screen repair business and with the seats down there so much room I can even haul the big screen doors. The comfort is great; I take my dog to work each morning and he loves all the room. I get a lot of compliments on how it looks. I plan on keeping it for a long time. I totally think it's an awesome vehicle. I have recommended it to several family members and friends. I love my Ford Escape.

You usually get a few pits with cherries

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Recent purchase. I'm (initially) very favorably impressed with the package. Good power (I don't remember the '89 Sable's 3.0V6 having this much OOMPH to it -- or dual cams/24 valves either). Steady ride, smooth handling, and good braking. So far, the gas mileage seems A-ok. This vehicle is just the right height for ease of entry, exit without any strain, or backache. The seat adjusts very well for the driver. This has a "throaty" sound that feedbacks through the cabin to let you know that you're driving a SUV that's got some zip potential. The turning radius is good, and visibility is very good. The vehicle looks very good, and sits very well. Options are all very nice. I strongly recommend it.

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Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

So far this suv drives well. Handles well behind the wheel. I'm short, so it's easy for me to get in an out of. Gets good gas mileage. I don't like the wiper control by the shift bar at all. Love the power it has. Gets up an go. I love opening the doors, with ease. Stops on a dime.

Only one complaint

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had no problems with the car except that it is not that great in the snow with the original tires. I recently put on all terrain tires and now it is great in the snow. I have put about 50,000 miles on it in two years and I have not had a single problem!

Not happy with my Escape

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

I have had my Escape for a little under 2 years and I am ready to get rid of it. The acceleration is great; that's about the only thing I like about it. It does not ride smooth and feels rough around the edges. The tires and wheels get covered in brake dust within a day washing them; you can never keep them clean.