The 2003 Ford Escape marked an entry into the compact SUV market for Ford. It's a 5-door SUV, part of the first generation (2001-2007). Key trims included XLS, XLT, and Limited. New pricing ranged from approximately $18,500 to $26,500. Its popularity stemmed from its car-like handling, spacious interior for its class, and available V6 engine, offering a blend of practicality and performance that appealed to a wide audience.
The Good
The 2003 Ford Escape offered a decent balance. The available V6 delivered reasonable performance, while the comfortable interior made daily driving pleasant. It was also considered a practical and reliable choice for families. Aesthetically, its rugged design offered a sense of adventure, while its relatively affordable price made it an attractive value proposition, appealing to both budget-conscious and experience-seeking buyers.
The Bad
The 2003 Ford Escape has known weaknesses. Potential issues include transmission problems, particularly with the automatic. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Some owners have reported issues with the ignition system and premature wear of suspension components. Checking for these issues is crucial before purchasing a used model.
2003 Ford Escape: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2003 Ford Escape:
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Zetec I4: Available on XLS and some XLT models.
- 3.0L Duratec V6: Standard on Limited, optional on XLT.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L I4: Approximately 127 hp.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 201 hp.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.0L I4: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (FWD).
- 3.0L V6: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (FWD).
- 0–60 Times (estimated):
- 2.0L I4: Approximately 10-11 seconds.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 8-9 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs with the V6 engine and proper equipment. The I4 engine had a significantly lower towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XLS: Base model; typically included cloth seats, basic audio system, manual windows and locks (depending on options).
- XLT: Mid-range model; added features like power windows and locks, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels (often optional), and sometimes fog lights.
- Limited: Top-tier model; included leather seats, premium audio system, automatic climate control, sunroof (optional), and sometimes heated seats.
2003 Ford Escape Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Escape |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | KANSAS CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | V-6 Cylinders |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
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History Check
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
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Listings
Safety
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Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Ford Escape Have?
The 2003 Ford Escape has several frequently reported problems. Transmission issues are common, especially in the automatic models, including slipping, harsh shifting, and complete failure. Ignition coil failures are also prevalent, leading to rough running and misfires. Rust is a concern, particularly on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells, especially in regions with road salt.
Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure and refrigerant leaks. Suspension components, such as ball joints and struts, can wear out prematurely. There have been recalls related to various safety concerns, including issues with the fuel system and airbags. The 2003 model year, in particular, had a higher number of reported issues compared to some later years in the first generation. Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues, leading to higher maintenance costs as the vehicle ages. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these problems.
Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure and refrigerant leaks. Suspension components, such as ball joints and struts, can wear out prematurely. There have been recalls related to various safety concerns, including issues with the fuel system and airbags. The 2003 model year, in particular, had a higher number of reported issues compared to some later years in the first generation. Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues, leading to higher maintenance costs as the vehicle ages. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these problems.
How long will the 2003 Ford Escape last?
A well-maintained 2003 Ford Escape can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, reaching this mileage depends heavily on consistent maintenance and driving habits. Poor maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan. The transmission is a significant weak point, and its longevity is often reduced with infrequent fluid changes. Rust can also accelerate its decline, especially in colder climates. While some owners have experienced exceptional durability, others have faced significant repairs. Regular servicing, addressing issues promptly, and protecting against rust are crucial for maximizing its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
John Smith
Bought this as a first car for my teenager. It's safe and easy to drive. Fuel economy isn't great, but it's acceptable for the price.
Emily Chen
I've owned my Escape since it was new. It's not the prettiest car, but it's gotten me through thick and thin. Regular maintenance is key!
Jessica Brown
The seats are surprisingly comfortable, and there's plenty of cargo space. It's a good car for errands and short trips.
Negative Owner Reviews
Sarah Miller
This car has been incredibly reliable for its age. However, things are starting to wear down. Expect to spend some money on maintenance if you buy one now.
David Lee
The Escape is okay, but the gas mileage is awful. I'm constantly at the gas station. Look for something more efficient.
Michael Davis
Had some engine issues with mine. Might be worth getting a mechanic to check it out before buying.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2003 Ford Escape's tech was fairly basic for its time. Standard entertainment features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems with cassette players. Driver-assistance features were minimal; anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often optional, and there were no advanced systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control.
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were available as an option on higher trims. The 2003 Escape received mixed crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Some ratings were good, while others showed weaknesses, particularly in side-impact tests. Available features included power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims. Optional features included a sunroof and heated seats. Overall, the 2003 Escape lacked many of the modern tech and safety features found in newer vehicles, but offered adequate safety for its era.
Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were available as an option on higher trims. The 2003 Escape received mixed crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Some ratings were good, while others showed weaknesses, particularly in side-impact tests. Available features included power windows and locks, and remote keyless entry on higher trims. Optional features included a sunroof and heated seats. Overall, the 2003 Escape lacked many of the modern tech and safety features found in newer vehicles, but offered adequate safety for its era.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Arizona Beige Metallic
Black
Dark Shadow Grey Metallic
Infra-Red Metallic Clearcoat
Liquid Grey Metallic Clearcoat
Oxford White Clearcoat
Pacific Green Metallic Clearcoat
Silver Frost Metallic Clearcoat
Toreador Red Pearl Metallic Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Med. Charcoal Cloth
Med. Parchment Cloth
2003 Ford Escape Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2003 Ford Escape ranged from approximately $18,500 to $26,500, depending on the trim level and options. As a used vehicle, prices now range from approximately $2,000 to $6,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Escape has depreciated significantly over time, as expected for a vehicle of its age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and any major repairs or accidents. Models with the V6 engine and 4WD tend to hold slightly more value than the base models.
2003 Ford Escape Cost of Ownership
The 2003 Ford Escape's insurance costs are relatively low due to its age. Fuel costs are moderate, especially with the I4 engine, but can be higher with the V6. Maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable. While some repairs are inexpensive, potential transmission or rust issues can be costly. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on the vehicle's condition and maintenance history. Addressing known issues promptly is crucial to preventing escalating expenses. It is not always the most economical car to own due to potential for expensive repairs.
2003 Ford Escape Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2003 Ford Escape Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Ford Escape Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date
2004-12-20
Recall no.
04v602000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain 2004-2005 Sport Utility Vehicles and Certain 2001-2003 Sport Utiity Vehicle Having Rear Liftgate Components Serviced With 2004 Equivalent Components Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 206, 'door Locks and Door Retention Components.' THE Rear Liftgate Latching System Does NOT Meet THE Inertia Load Requirement IN ONE Direction.
Consequence
IF THE Liftgate IS Left Unlocked, There IS THE Potential That IT MAY Open During A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Liftgate Latch Release Rod, THE Release ROD Attachment Clip and THE Door Handle Return Spring. THE Recall Began ON March 31, 2005. Owners Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 04c09.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Recall date
2004-04-06
Recall no.
04v165000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Engines, During Deceleration, THE Engine CAN Stall.
Consequence
Should THE Engine Stall, A Vehicle Crash Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Reprogram THE Power Control Module (Pcm) With THE Appropriate Calibration. Owner Notification Began ON April 21, 2004. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 04s13.also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2007-03-29
Recall no.
07e023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Recall date
2004-12-07
Recall no.
04v574000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Built With 3.0l V6 Engines, THE Accelerator Cable MAY Prevent THE Throttle From Returning TO THE Idle Position.
Consequence
AN Unexpected Increase IN Engine Idle Speed MAY Increase Stopping Distance and MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Accelerator Cable. THE Recall Began ON January 10, 2005. Owners Should Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 04s25.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date
2007-04-10
Recall no.
07v156000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With Antilock Brakes (Abs), THE ABS Module Connector MAY Have Missing or Dislodged Wire Seals. This Condition Could Allow Contamination TO Enter THE Module Connector, Creating A Potential FOR AN Electrical Short.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short Might Cause AN ABS Malfunction That Would Illuminate THE ABS Warning Light, and IN Some Cases, THE Module MAY Overheat Resulting IN Burning Odor, Smoke, And/Or Fire. This Condition Could Occur Either When THE Vehicle Ignition Switch IS IN THE OFF Position or While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Wire Harness Connector TO THE ABS Module FOR Missing or Dislodged Wire Seals, and Repair or Replace THE Harness Connector AS Appropriate. THE Dealer Will Also Inspect THE Connector ON THE ABS Module and Replace IT IF IT IS Found TO BE Corroded or Damaged. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 07s51.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2012-07-26
Recall no.
12v353000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001 Through 2004 Escape Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Engines and Speed Control Manufactured From October 22, 1999, Through January 23, 2004. Inadequate Clearance Between THE Engine Cover and THE Speed Control Cable Connector Could Result IN A Stuck Throttle When THE Accelerator Pedal IS Fully or Almost-Fully Depressed. This Risk Exists Regardless OF Whether or NOT Speed Control (Cruise Control) IS Used.
Consequence
A Stuck Throttle MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop or Slow THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles BY Increasing THE Engine Cover Clearance, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began August 3, 2012. Remedy Parts ARE Expected TO BE Available IN Mid-August 2012. Until Then Dealers Will Disconnect THE Speed Control Cable AS AN Interim Remedy, IF Parts ARE NOT Available AT THE Time OF AN Owner's Service Appointment. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 12s37.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Recall date
2012-07-26
Recall no.
12v353000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001 Through 2004 Escape Vehicles Equipped With 3.0l V6 Engines and Speed Control Manufactured From October 22, 1999, Through January 23, 2004. Inadequate Clearance Between THE Engine Cover and THE Speed Control Cable Connector Could Result IN A Stuck Throttle When THE Accelerator Pedal IS Fully or Almost-Fully Depressed. This Risk Exists Regardless OF Whether or NOT Speed Control (Cruise Control) IS Used.
Consequence
A Stuck Throttle MAY Result IN Very High Vehicle Speeds and Make IT Difficult TO Stop or Slow THE Vehicle, Which Could Cause A Crash, Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles BY Increasing THE Engine Cover Clearance, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began August 3, 2012. Remedy Parts ARE Expected TO BE Available IN Mid-August 2012. Until Then Dealers Will Disconnect THE Speed Control Cable AS AN Interim Remedy, IF Parts ARE NOT Available AT THE Time OF AN Owner's Service Appointment. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 12s37.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:frame and Members
Recall date
2014-04-02
Recall no.
14v165000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2004 Escape Vehicles Manufactured October 22, 1999, Through January 23, 2004, Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and THE District OF Columbia. These Vehicles MAY Experience Excessive Corrosion AT THE Forward Attachment OF THE Lower Control Arm.
Consequence
A Separation OF THE Lower Control ARM CAN Result IN A Significant Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Newly Designed Reinforcement Cross-Brace, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 30, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 14s02.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Recall date
2015-09-29
Recall no.
15v606000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Vehicles Manufactured March 31, 2001, TO September 1, 2009. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With Either A 2.3l or 3.0l Engine and Have HAD Their Cd4e Transmission Replaced With Remanufactured ONE That WAS Rebuilt Between June 11, 2015 Through July 15, 2015. These Service Repair Part Transmissions Have A Shift Lever Bolt That MAY NOT BE Properly Tightened. AS A Result, THE Shift Control Lever Could Disengage From THE Transmission Without Warning.
Consequence
IF THE Shift Lever Disengages From THE Transmission, A Driver MAY BE Unable TO Shift Gear Positions and THE Indicated Shift Position MAY NOT Represent THE Gear Position THE Vehicle IS IN. Should A Disengagement Occur While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, When THE Driver Goes TO Stop and Park THE Vehicle, THE Gear Selection Indicator MAY Show That THE Transmission IS IN THE "park" Position, BUT THE Vehicle Transmission MAY NOT Actually BE IN THE "park" Gear Position. IF THE Vehicle IS NOT IN THE "park" Position There IS A Risk THE Vehicle Will Roll Away AS THE Driver and Other Occupants Exit THE Vehicle or Anytime Thereafter. A Vehicle Rollaway Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Transmissions and Either Tighten THE Manual Shift Lever Bolt or Replace THE Manual Shift Lever Assembly. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 23, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 15s28.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:floor Shift
Recall date
2015-09-29
Recall no.
15v606000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Vehicles Manufactured March 31, 2001, TO September 1, 2009. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With Either A 2.3l or 3.0l Engine and Have HAD Their Cd4e Transmission Replaced With Remanufactured ONE That WAS Rebuilt Between June 11, 2015 Through July 15, 2015. These Service Repair Part Transmissions Have A Shift Lever Bolt That MAY NOT BE Properly Tightened. AS A Result, THE Shift Control Lever Could Disengage From THE Transmission Without Warning.
Consequence
IF THE Shift Lever Disengages From THE Transmission, A Driver MAY BE Unable TO Shift Gear Positions and THE Indicated Shift Position MAY NOT Represent THE Gear Position THE Vehicle IS IN. Should A Disengagement Occur While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, When THE Driver Goes TO Stop and Park THE Vehicle, THE Gear Selection Indicator MAY Show That THE Transmission IS IN THE "park" Position, BUT THE Vehicle Transmission MAY NOT Actually BE IN THE "park" Gear Position. IF THE Vehicle IS NOT IN THE "park" Position There IS A Risk THE Vehicle Will Roll Away AS THE Driver and Other Occupants Exit THE Vehicle or Anytime Thereafter. A Vehicle Rollaway Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Transmissions and Either Tighten THE Manual Shift Lever Bolt or Replace THE Manual Shift Lever Assembly. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 23, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 15s28.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:wheel Bearing
Recall date
2015-06-03
Recall no.
15e045000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Timken Company (Timken) IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Front Wheel Bearings, Part Number 510072, Sold From January 22, 2015, TO MAY 21, 2015, TO BE Used AS Service Parts ON 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner Vehicles. THE Affected Wheel Bearings Have Incorrect Dimensions OF A 42mm Bore, 76mm Outer Dimension, and 39mm Width, Instead OF A 42mm Bore, 78mm Outer Dimension and A 45mm Width.
Consequence
USE OF AN Incorrectly Sized Wheel Bearing CAN Adversely Affect THE Braking and Steering OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Timken HAS Begun Notifying Distributors WHO Will Offer Purchasers Replacement Wheel Bearings, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 21, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Timken Customer Service AT 1-866-984-6536.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2003 Ford Escape Insurance
Insurance for a 2003 Ford Escape is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Ford Escape Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2003 Ford Escape competed with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda Tribute (which shared its platform). In terms of performance, the Escape's available V6 gave it an edge over the CR-V and RAV4, which primarily offered four-cylinder engines. The Mazda Tribute offered similar performance due to its shared platform. The CR-V and RAV4 were generally considered more reliable than the Escape, with fewer reported transmission issues. Feature-wise, the Escape was competitive, but lagged slightly behind the CR-V and RAV4 in terms of interior refinement. Price-wise, the Escape was often more affordable than the CR-V and RAV4 when new.
As used vehicles, the CR-V and RAV4 tend to hold their value better due to their reputation for reliability. If reliability is a primary concern, a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 from the same era might be a better choice, despite the potentially higher price. If performance is a priority and you find a well-maintained Escape with the V6, it could be a decent option, but be prepared for potential repairs.
As used vehicles, the CR-V and RAV4 tend to hold their value better due to their reputation for reliability. If reliability is a primary concern, a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 from the same era might be a better choice, despite the potentially higher price. If performance is a priority and you find a well-maintained Escape with the V6, it could be a decent option, but be prepared for potential repairs.
Ranks #696 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 696 | 2003 Ford Escape | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Ford Escape a Good Wagon?
The 2003 Ford Escape is suitable for budget-conscious buyers seeking a compact SUV with available V6 power. It's worth considering *if* you find a well-maintained example with a thorough inspection, especially checking for transmission issues and rust. The XLT or Limited trims offer more features, but the condition is paramount. Due to its age, buying a 2003 Escape is only recommended as a very affordable option, and be prepared for potential maintenance costs. Newer, more reliable alternatives might be a better long-term investment, but the Escape can be a viable choice for someone on a tight budget who is willing to perform regular maintenance and repairs themselves.
Sarah Miller on March 18, 2025
Reliable but Showing Its AgeThis car has been incredibly reliable for its age. However, things are starting to wear down. Expect to spend some money on maintenance if you buy one now.
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John Smith on March 18, 2025
Great Starter SUVBought this as a first car for my teenager. It's safe and easy to drive. Fuel economy isn't great, but it's acceptable for the price.
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Emily Chen on March 18, 2025
Still kicking after all these years!I've owned my Escape since it was new. It's not the prettiest car, but it's gotten me through thick and thin. Regular maintenance is key!
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David Lee on March 18, 2025
Gas mileage is a killerThe Escape is okay, but the gas mileage is awful. I'm constantly at the gas station. Look for something more efficient.
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Jessica Brown on March 18, 2025
Comfortable and PracticalThe seats are surprisingly comfortable, and there's plenty of cargo space. It's a good car for errands and short trips.
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Michael Davis on March 18, 2025
Engine TroubleHad some engine issues with mine. Might be worth getting a mechanic to check it out before buying.
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Ashley Wilson on March 18, 2025
Decent for the PriceIt's an older car, so don't expect luxury. But it gets the job done and is relatively inexpensive.
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Christopher Garcia on March 18, 2025
Roomy interiorI like the amount of space inside. Good for hauling kids and groceries.
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Brittany Rodriguez on March 18, 2025
Lots of repairs neededI've had to fix so many things on this car. It's been a money pit.
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Kevin Williams on March 18, 2025
Still a good SUVA solid SUV that has plenty of life left in it if you take care of it.
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Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma