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Safety and Reliability Ratings > 2003 > Ford > ESCAPE

2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS
4 Dr. Wagon/Sport Utility
4 wheel drive


CARFAX has collected the industry's leading used car safety and reliability ratings into one, convenient report. With this report, you'll know the safety and reliability of your next used car. All information presented in this report is specific to the 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS. Please view the CARFAX Vehicle History Report for the detailed history of a specific used FORD.

 

CARFAX Safety Section One  Safety:

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CARFAX Safety Section Two  Reliability:

Use this information to check how reliable a vehicle model is before you buy.


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NHTSA Crash Test Results National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration
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Frontal Crash: Rating:   NHTSA Five Star Legend
Driver Rating 5 of 5  
Passenger Rating 4 of 5  
Side Crash: Rating:  
Front Seat Rating 5 of 5  
Rear Seat Rating 5 of 5  
Rollover Resistance: Rating:  
Rollover Resistance Rating 3 of 5  

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides 3 different ratings - full-width frontal crash test , side impact crash test , and rollover resistance . The frontal crash test indicates how well the safety features and restraints will protect an occupant in a head-on collision. The side-impact test conveys the chance of a severe chest injury, while the rollover resistance rating estimates the risk of rolling over in a single vehicle crash. Go to NHTSA to learn more about these results.


IIHS Crash Test Results Highway Loss Data Institute
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Frontal Offset Crash Test Rating:   4 star legend
Overall Evaluation   M
Structure/Safety Cage   M
Injury Measures  
Head/Neck   A
Chest   G
Leg/foot, left   G
Leg/foot, right   P
Restraints/dummy kinematics   G
Important: Frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight. <p>The Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute were introduced in the 2001 model year. </p> Dummy movement was reasonably well controlled. During rebound, the dummy's head hit the B-pillar. Measures taken from the chest indicate low risk of injuries to this body region. High head accelerations occurred when the dummy's head hit both the steering wheel through the airbag and the B-pillar, indicating that head injuries would be possible. Forces on the right tibia indicate that injuries to the lower leg would be likely. (Note: during the test, some injury data from the left leg was lost, but after the Institute reviewed comparable test data from Ford and Mazda, the left leg injury risk was rated good.) 2001 Ford Escape XLS 3408 front seat-mounted combination head and torso airbags 103 173 70 3.0 L V6 18 24

Crash Tested Vehicle: Details | Vehicle Specifications

Side Impact Crash Test Rating:  
Overall Evaluation   G
Structure/safety cage   A
Injury Measures
Driver Passenger
3417 optional front seat-mounted combination head and torso airbags 103 173 70 3.0 L V6 18 23 Measures taken from the dummy indicate that rib fractures would be possible in a crash of this severity. The risk of significant injuries to other body regions is low. Measures taken from the dummies in the two tests of the 2003 model, taken together, indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity. In both tests of the 2003 model, the dummy's head was hit by the pillar behind the rear passenger door. This pillar is required by federal standard to provide some protection for occupants' heads. 2003 Ford Escape XLT 4wd <p>The Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute were introduced in the 2001 model year.</p> <p>Two tests of a 2003 Escape were conducted, one with an optional side airbag for the driver, and one without. A third test of an Escape, a 2005 model, was conducted because the side airbags were changed beginning with 2005 models to include protection for the rear passenger. These vehicles are rated separately, except that the injury and head protection ratings for the rear passenger are based on both tests of the 2003 models. Structural ratings for the three vehicles are based on all three tests. </p> The dummy's head was protected from being hit by any hard structures, including the intruding barrier, by a side airbag that deployed from the seat.
Head Protection
  G   A
Head/neck
  G   G
Torso
  A   G
Pelvis/Leg
  G   G

Crash Tested Vehicle: optional front seat-mounted combination head and torso airbags
Details | Vehicle Specifications

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) uses frontal offset and side impact crash tests to estimate the crashworthiness of a vehicle. These results are good indicators of how a frontal and side impact can structurally impact a 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS . The crashworthiness data for this 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these crash test results.



Low-Speed Damage Repair Highway Loss Data Institute
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Front Crash Description: Front Crash Cost:
Front into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Front into angle barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear Crash Description: Rear Crash Cost:
Rear into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear into pole   Not tested by IIHS
Average Damage Per Test   Not tested by IIHS

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts four 5 mph crash tests to assess bumper performance. These results convey how well this 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS bumpers will protect the car body from damage in low-speed collisions. Low-speed damage repair costs are obtained from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.


Injury, Collision, & Theft Indicators Highway Loss Data Institute
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The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) does not provide injury, collision or theft information for this 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS .

Index: Score: Rating:
Injury Index No data from HLDI No data from HLDI
Collision Index No data from HLDI No data from HLDI
Theft Index No data from HLDI No data from HLDI


These scores are stated in relative terms, with 100 being the average for all cars in each category. Scores greater than 100 represent higher risk in each category. For example, an injury indicator score of 122 means that a passenger in this model is 22% more likely to be injured in an accident. Injury, collision, and theft indicators are provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.



Safety Recalls
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NHTSA Safety Recalls:
Important: The following recalls were issued for the 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). To find out if a specific 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS still has open recalls that require repair, CARFAX recommends contacting an authorized dealership for more information.

Recall date: 04-21-2004
Units potentially affected: 321,903
NHTSA campaign number: 04V165000
Defective part or component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
Description: On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with 3.0 liter V6 engines, during deceleration, the engine can stall. Should the engine stall, a vehicle crash could occur. 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.
Recall date: 01-17-2005
Units potentially affected: 470,245
NHTSA campaign number: 04V574000
Defective part or component: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Description: On certain sport utility vehicles built with 3.0 liter V6 engines, the accelerator cable may prevent the throttle from returning to the idle position. An unexpected increase in engine idle speed may increase stopping distance and may result in a vehicle crash. Dealers will replace the accelerator cable. The recall is expected to begin on January 17, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall date: Not reported
Units potentially affected: 262,113
NHTSA campaign number: 04V602000
Defective part or component: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Description: 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. If the liftgate is left unlocked, there is the potential that it may open during a crash. Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod, the release rod attachment clip and the door handle return spring. The recall is expected to begin on January 24, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall date: Not reported
Units potentially affected: 446,460
NHTSA campaign number: 07V156000
Defective part or component: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Description: 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. 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. 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 is expected to begin on or about April 23, 2007. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.


This 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS safety recall information was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Data Loss Institute and is derived from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration list of safety recalls. Please call the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236) to report safety defects or to obtain information on cars, trucks, child seats, and highway or traffic safety. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by the National Highway Traffic and Saftey Administration, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



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J.D. Power Ratings
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Ownership: Rating:
Initial Ratings (up to 1 year)  
Overall Quality Rating 4 of 5
  Mechanical Quality Rating 4.5 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Quality Rating 2.5 of 5
  Body and Interior Quality Rating 4 of 5
Overall Appeal Rating 2.5 of 5
  Performance Rating 2.5 of 5
  Comfort Rating 3 of 5
  Feature and Instrument Panel Rating 2.5 of 5
  Style Rating 3 of 5
Midterm Ratings (1-3 Years)  
  Mechanical Reliability No data from source
  Feature and Accessory Reliability No data from source
  Body and Interior Reliability No data from source
Long Term Ratings (3-5 Years)  
Overall Dependability Rating 3 of 5
  Mechanical Dependability Rating 3 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Dependability Rating 3.5 of 5
  Body and Interior Dependability Rating 4 of 5

J.D. Power and Associates uses selected highlights from the firm's quality and customer satisfaction syndicated studies to create the Power Ratings at the model-level. These ratings and awards are based on model rankings within each vehicle segment, whereas Power Circle Ratings compare all models across segments.

All information provided by J.D. Power and Associates is proprietary information owned by J.D. Power and Associates and is protected by U.S. and international copyright law and conventions. Reproduction of this information, in whole or in part, by any means is prohibited without the express written consent of J.D. Power and Associates, other than printing copies of the JDPA content by site visitors for their personal use. J.D. Power and Associates® is a registered trademark of J.D. Power and Associates.



Identifix Reliability Ratings
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Category: Comments: Rating:
Engine Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Transmission & Driveline Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Steering & Suspension Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Brakes Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Heating & Air Conditioning Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Starting & Charging Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Accessories Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Identifix Legend


This 2003 FORD ESCAPE reliability information was provided by Identifix. Identifix is the nation's largest technical support service for the aftermarket auto repair industry. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by Identifix, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Intellichoice Cost of Ownership & Value Rating Intellichoice
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Cost of Ownership (2003 - 2007):
Category:    Escape XLS 4WD 4 Dr Sport Utility:
Depreciation $11,110
Financing $2,986
Insurance $6,075
State Fees $421
Fuel $4,692
Maintenance $1,483
Repairs $924
Total 5-Year Ownership Cost $27,691

Ownership costs are the costs to purchase and operate a vehicle over a period of time. Understanding these costs can save you money and help you make a wiser financial decision when it comes time to select a vehicle. Intellichoice is one of the leading providers of automotive information in the U.S.

Original Manufacturer Warranty
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Coverage: Years/Mileage:
Basic 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Drivetrain 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Emissions No data from source  
Corrosion 5 years with Unlimited mileage  
Transferable Transferable: no cost, unlimited owners covered.  
Roadside Assistance Roadside assistance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles.  
Safety Belt & Inflatable Restraint Safety belt and inflatable restraint system are covered for 5 years or 50,000 miles.  
Specific Components 8 years or 80,000 miles  
Notes: 2006 model year sold on or after 7/14/06 will be covered by a complimentary 5/60,000 Ford ESP Powertrain Care Extended Service Contract with a $100 deductible. Transferable: no cost, unlimited owners covered. Roadside assistance covered during basic warranty. 2003 and prior models with a 7.3L direct injected diesel engine (8th vin digit = "F") covered 5/100,000 with $100 deductible after basic. Safety belt and inflatable restraint system covered for 5/50,000. 2007-2009 models are covered for 5/60,000. Alignment and wheel balance covered 1/12,000. 2001-2003 tire defects covered during the new vehicle limited warranty period. 2004-2005 model year tire wear covered 1/12,000. 2007-2009 tire defect coverage is prorated during the new vehicle limited warranty period. 2004-2009 6.0L diesel engine covered 5/100,000. 2004-2006 have a $100 deductible after basic warranty, 2007 no deductible. Roadside assistance 5/60,000. 10/150,000 coverage for high voltage battery for vehicles eligible for California emissions warranty coverage and the state of Oregon. Manufacturer covers emissions components under basic warranty. Emissions coverage may vary by state. Refer to owners manual for specific details. J&L Warranty Pros recommends performing a vehicle information report to confirm applicable manufacturer warranty coverage.  

This 2003 FORD ESCAPE XLS warranty information has been provided by J&L Warranty Pros.


New Car Test Drive Review
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Category: Review:
Summary:

Best in its class.
By Mitch McCullough, Editor-in-Chief, NewCarTestDrive.com

The Ford Escape is one of the best of the small, on-road SUVs. The available V6 engine provides the Escape with the most power in its class. A four-wheel independent suspension and unit-body construction make it handle almost as well as a car. A car-like ride makes it easy to live with. It isn't designed for serious off-road driving, nor are its direct competitors. Overall, we feel the Escape is the best SUV in its class.

Overview:

The Ford Escape is one of the best of the small, affordable SUVs, assuming that off-road travel isn't a priority. The Escape offers agile handling on paved and unpaved roads. It accelerates briskly when equipped with the optional V6 engine. It rides smoothly and its refined interior seats four people comfortably. Folding down the rear seats reveals a flat, moderately sized cargo area. Best of all, its price is relatively low.

The Escape was an all-new vehicle in 2001. For 2003, all models have upgraded interior materials for better appearance and feel. The seat fabrics, floor mats and door trim are of higher quality and are available in new patterns and hues. The center stack, door bezels and window switches are painted for a two-tone interior effect, and the window switches are illuminated for nighttime convenience.

For 2003, Ford has added an up-market Limited trim level, and a limited-edition option package called Midnight.

Read the complete 2003 Ford Escape review

© 2002 NewCarTestDrive.com

CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by NewCarTestDrive.com, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Awards
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View awardees recognized by Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, Polk Automotive, and J.D. Power and Associates.



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