Recall 03V507000: 2001 Ford Escape

Report received

Dec 5, 2003

Manufacturer

Ford motor company

Potentially affected

132,243vehicles

Model years

2001

Check your own vehicle. A recall applies only to vehicles within the affected build range. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

What NHTSA recorded

On certain sport utility vehicles, a post within the safety belt buckle covers could fracture, which could affect latch function, resulting in either a "no latch" or "partial latch" condition. In the "partial latch" condition, the buckle tongue can be inserted into the buckle and appear to be engaged, but will release from the buckle without the push button being depressed when a relatively low load is applied, such as when an occupant moves slightly in the seat.

Possible consequence

In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will have the driver and front passenger safety belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed service buckle cover. Owner notification began on february 2, 2004. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

Affected model years

Pages for each model year show complaints, parts, mileage and other recalls.

• 2001 Ford Escape996 complaints