April 13, 2004
Ford is recalling 363,440 Escape compact sport utility vehicles from model years 2001-2003 because the engine may stall at certain speeds.
Ford said some Escapes with a 3-liter, V-6 engine may experience an intermittent stall when decelerating at speeds below 40 mph. In most cases, the automaker said, the driver is able to restart immediately.
The problem comes as no surprise to consumers, who have been complaining about the problem for more than a year.
"I wound up on someone's lawn because of losing control of the vehicle," said Lynne of Austell GA. Her Escape stalled as she was going downhill and the failure of power brakes and steering caused her to lose control.
Ford said it has identified eight minor accidents that may have occurred because of the engine condition, three of which involved minor injuries.
Customers will be notified of the safety recall by mail, or they can call their dealer or Ford's toll-free hot line (800-392-3673) for more information
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
