Are there any recalls on a 2002 Ford Escape?

Yes. Some 2002 Ford Escape vehicles have been subject to recall campaigns over the years. Whether your specific SUV is affected depends on its VIN; the safest step is to verify through official databases.

This article explains how to determine if a particular 2002 Escape is under recall, what kinds of recall campaigns have historically involved older Escapes, and how to get any necessary remedies at no cost.

Overview of recall campaigns that have involved the 2002 Ford Escape

Over the model’s history, certain units of the 2002 Ford Escape have been part of recall campaigns. The exact campaigns and which vehicles they cover depend on manufacturing date, engine option, and the vehicle’s VIN. Below are general categories of recalls that have affected older Escapes and guidance on checking your specific vehicle.

• Fuel system components, including fuel tanks or lines, which can lead to leaks or performance issues.


• Airbags and occupancy sensing systems, addressing deployment reliability or sensor performance.


• Transmission or drivetrain-related concerns that could affect shifting or engagement.


• Steering and suspension components that could impact handling and safety.


• Electrical harnesses and ignition-related issues that could affect starting or operation of accessories.


• Door latches and related safety mechanisms that may affect child safety or entry/exit.

Not every vehicle will be affected, and remedies have been completed for many recalls years after they were issued. The most reliable status is VIN-specific.

How to check your vehicle’s recalls

To verify the exact recall status for your 2002 Ford Escape and learn whether a remedy is available, use official databases and enter your VIN.

1. Gather your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from the lower corner of the windshield or your registration documents.


2. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall search page and enter your VIN to see open or completed campaigns.


3. Also check Ford’s official recall/owner portal for model-year–specific notices tied to your VIN.


4. If a recall is found, contact an authorized Ford dealer to schedule the free remedy. Bring any required service records.


5. If no active recall shows up but you have safety concerns, discuss them with a dealer or contact Ford customer service for further evaluation.

VIN-based checks are essential because recall status can vary widely from one vehicle to another within the same model year.

What to do if a recall is active or a remedy is available

Act promptly if a recall is active or a remedy has been announced. Recall work is performed at no cost to the owner, and neglecting a recall can affect safety and vehicle performance. Dealers will perform the required repair, replacement, or software update.

• Do not drive the vehicle if the recall involves critical safety systems and you have been advised to stop driving; arrange alternate transportation.


• Make an appointment with a Ford dealer or an authorized service center as soon as possible.


• Keep a record of the repair work and any parts replaced related to the recall.

Timely action helps ensure safety and compliance with recall remedies.

Summary

In short, there have been recall campaigns affecting some 2002 Ford Escape units over the years. The only reliable way to know if a specific vehicle is affected is to check the VIN against NHTSA and Ford’s recall databases. If a recall applies to your VIN, have it remedied at no cost by an authorized dealer.

What is the recall on the 2002 Ford Escape?

The company recalled the Ford Escape vehicle's made from October 22, 1999 to July 19, 2002 due to the potential brake fluid leak, which could result in fire or melting if it comes into contact with the antilock brake system wiring. The recall campaign has a recall number 11S24 and is part of the 07V-156 recall.

Can Ford recalls expire?

Can a Ford recall expire? Safety, Compliance, and Emissions Recalls do not expire. Affected vehicles remain eligible until the repair is completed. Other types of vehicle programs, called Customer Satisfaction Programs, typically have expiration dates and/or mileage limitations.

How do I check if my Ford Escape has a recall?

Recent Ford Escape recalls include an underhood fire risk in certain 2020–2022 models with 1.5-liter engines, a high-voltage battery short circuit risk in 2020–2024 plug-in hybrids, and issues with brake linings or a start/stop accumulator on other models. Ford will contact owners via mail for safety recalls and provides a VIN checker on its website for owners to verify if their vehicle is affected.
 
Recent recalls

• 2020–2022 Escape (1.5L Engine): A recall for a fire risk due to cracked fuel injectors that can leak fuel under the hood. An interim software update is being provided, with a permanent fix under development. 
• 2020–2024 Escape PHEV: A recall for a risk of high-voltage battery short-circuiting, which could cause a fire. A previous software update was insufficient, and a new remedy is being developed. 
• 2025 Escape: A recall for issues with stability control and brake assist, which could make the vehicle difficult to control. 
• 2021–2022 Escape: A recall for incorrectly manufactured rear brake linings that can affect braking performance. 
• 2020 Escape: A recall for a transmission issue where missing or loose bolts in the start/stop accumulator endcap may occur. 

How to check for recalls

• Online VIN checker: Use the Ford's safety recall checker or the RepairPal recall checker by entering your vehicle's VIN or license plate number. 
• Mail notification: Ford will mail a notice to the registered owner of the vehicle if a safety recall applies to it. The notice will provide details about the defect, repair timeline, and instructions on how to get the repair done at no cost. 

What are common problems in a 2002 Ford Escape?

Common problems for the 2002 Ford Escape include ignition misfires and hesitation, issues with the 4WD transfer case, and alternator failure. Other frequent issues include rough idling, stalling, and overheating, often caused by problems with the ignition coils, Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, vacuum leaks, thermostats, or radiators.
 
This video explains the 10 common problems of Ford Escape 1st generation vehicles (2001-2007): 56sHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · Jul 17, 2022
Engine and performance issues

• Ignition misfires: Often caused by faulty ignition coils, leading to rough running and hesitation. 
• Hesitation and stalling: Can be due to dirty IAC valves, vacuum leaks, or issues with the throttle body. 
• Intermittent starting: V6 models may experience this due to failed ignition coils, starter motor problems, or poor electrical connections. 
• Overheating: V6 models can overheat if the thermostat is faulty or the radiator is clogged. A stuck thermostat can cause inconsistent temperature readings. 
• Rough idle: Similar to hesitation, this can be caused by a dirty IAC valve or vacuum leaks. 
• Alternator failure: Can result in multiple electrical problems and power loss. 

This video shows a 2002 Ford Escape 3.0L with a misfire problem: 54sScannerDannerYouTube · Sep 8, 2012
Drivetrain issues

• Transfer case problems: The 4WD models can have internal issues with the transfer case. 

This video discusses the 4WD issues in a Ford Escape's transfer case: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 2, 2021
Emissions and other issues

• Evap and EGR systems: Issues can arise from cracked evap lines or a malfunctioning EGR valve, leading to emissions failures. 
• Brake master cylinder cap: Ford issued a recall for a potential leak in the brake master cylinder reservoir cap that could cause a fire hazard.