Investigation EA02027: 2001–2002 Ford Escape

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Sep 10, 2002

Closed

Apr 15, 2004

Model years

2001–2002

Subject

Engine stalling

Component: Engine and engine cooling

Summary

Ford's and mazda's letters to nhtsa dated april 5 and april 9, 2004, state that they will recall model year 2001-03 ford escape and mazda tribute vehicles with the v6 engine built thru september 11, 2002.dealers will adjust engine calibration in the programmable control module (pcm), which in its current setting, can cause the engine to shut down if the vehicle is decelerating at speeds below 40 mph. The engine shuts down due to excessively rich air-fuel mixtures being sent to the engine.when the engine shuts down, drivers may notice a loss of power assist for their steering and brakes. The majority of the complainants have indicated to the agency that the stall is intermittent and can happen more than once.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 2002 Ford Escape1,027 complaints
• 2001 Ford Escape996 complaints