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2005 Ford Escape consumer reviews

$19,425–$21,820 MSRP range
side view of 2005 Escape Ford
(102 reviews)
85% of drivers recommend this car
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.3
  • Interior 4.2
  • Performance 4.3
  • Value 4.3
  • Exterior 4.3
  • Reliability 4.2
Explore the 2005 Ford Escape
Shop the 2005 Ford Escape

330,000 miles and going strong

My Dad was the first owner I'm the second , 330,000 miles and still going strong. Keep up the general maintenance and it will keep going.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Keep an eye on rear passenger shock tower

Keep an eye on rear passenger side wheel well where the shock tower meets the body for some reason that particular side is prone to corrosion. They sell the patch panels for that side only on Amazon but probably pricey to hire someone to do it. Replaced ignition coils at around 130K and front suspension has needed some work but overall great vehicle. At 155K now hoping to get it to 200-250K and EVs will hopefully be cheaper by then.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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2005 Escape Still going strong in 2022!

This vehicle is amazing! 2005 Ford escape It it now has 200k miles and still running STRONG! The AC compressor has needed two replacements, minor exhaust leak and oil leak that were easily repaired, brake pad replacements etc. but no major issues, transmission is still great. Be sure to use the parking brake every time to prevent transmission damage since these vehicles can sometimes have transmission issues. If you use the parking brake it may help prevent that. LOVE the way it handles, great steering, great visibility, powerful engine. I love this vehicle!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
25 people out of 25 found this review helpful. Did you?
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2005,2006 & 2007 have have transmission problems.

I purchased a used 2005 Escape two years ago and had to replaced the left back passenger window system, the Transmission Failed and have oil leaks.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 3.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 2.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does not recommend this car
9 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
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WARNING!

The 5th ford SUV my family has owned. Overall have had good experiences. After putting 180,000 miles, on my 1998 explorer. Standard maintenance costs starting to exceed value. Searched 6 months for one with low miles, 80,000, in my price range $5000. Have had constant, costly repairs almost since the beginning. After 3 different attempts to correct misfires, hesitation, stalling & stranding. Problem was intermittent at first. Mechanic couldn't duplicate problem and wasn't putting out any codes. Jumped/charged 3 separate times before finally no start. I've replaced 2 batteries, brakes, water pump, all 6 coils & plugs. Still problem persists and getting only 4 MPG. Relent & take it to Ford dealership who charged me $150 to diagnose what AutoZone code reader finally picked up (free of charge) that it needs replacement FRP Sensor. Code PO193, cost $500. WRONG! After some research on Ford Forums & Car Complaints & NHTSA's websites I found 2 TSB's (technical service bulletins) were issued about spark plugs causing radio frequency interference wreaking havoc on multiple electronic components. Most notably and always eventually frying the PCM (Power Control Module). The computer that stores all problem codes, regulates (then ruining) all electric components of vehicle. Costs nearly $2000 for replacement that only a Ford Dealer can repair. That's if they can locate a refurbished one. They are in very short supply. I wonder why? The cost of 6 new spark plugs, had they issued an actual recall, $15.00. Reason for TSB as opposed to recall. They aren't required to issue a recall unless seen as a safety hazard. I'VE READ HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS WHERE IT COMPLETELY STALLED, AT HIGH SPEEDS, LOSING POWER TO STEERING, BRAKES, LIGHTS, ETC. Absolutely a safety issue. Do your homework. I looked up my 2005, 3.0 Ford Escape on Cars.com, Edmunds, and Consumer Reports b4 getting car fax & this was not mentioned anywhere. I mentioned PCM flashing, reprogramming, replacement was suggested in conjunction with spark plugs & coils replacement ($950), I had done recently. The mechanic treated me like I was stupid. I called another mechanic after getting wrong recommended repair diagnosis from Ford & he laughed saying "I won't touch those things!" You fix it and 3 months later same problem starts all over again!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 3.0
  • Interior 3.0
  • Performance 3.0
  • Value 2.0
  • Exterior 2.0
  • Reliability 1.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does not recommend this car
31 people out of 37 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Most reliable car

Seriously, I feel so at home in this car. It handles so well. Steering, visibility, torch V6. I just feel totally safe and powerful in this vehicle despite its age it has such great characteristics and design. Low maintenance and reliability.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
8 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Safest and most comfortable car I’ve ever owned.

I love the car, after getting tboned in a small car I was terrified to get behind the wheel, but my escape helped me out of that fear and now I have no problem driving!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Wishing it was more reliable

Bought this 05 XLT used in 2010 with 98K miles. Currently have 236K but wait, it hasn't been without issue's. The trans failed at 140K, right wheel well rusted out, alternator was replaced 2X, starter 2X, both right and left fenders are rusting out. I'm on a first name basis with the repair shop. Although it's a beater, I still like the way it handles.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 2.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 1.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does not recommend this car
3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Drives good has power easy driving

Drives smooth runs good dependable seats are comfortable roomy inside has plenty of cup holders lots of space in the back for groceries and things my Ford escape 2005 fits 5 people

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does recommend this car
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Only owned this for about a month. So far so good.

I like it alot. Always wanted an SUV for the room and versatility. I think it'll serve me well. I really like how I'm up higher when I drive.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 4.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 4.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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