The 2005 Ford Escape has 4 recalls, the most serious affecting hybrid models: a coolant pump in the hybrid electronics system can fail, causing the powertrain to shut down and the vehicle to stall unexpectedly in traffic.
The transmission recall is narrow but worth noting: it only applies to vehicles whose CD4E automatic transmission was replaced with a remanufactured unit rebuilt during a specific five-week window in 2015. In those cases, the shift lever can disengage from the transmission internally, leaving the driver unable to move through gear positions and causing the gear indicator to show a position that does not match where the transmission actually is. There is also a safety equipment concern on non-hybrid trims equipped without side air curtains or a moonroof: the A-pillar trim on the driver's side does not absorb impact energy within the limit required by federal occupant protection standards, meaning a head striking that area in a crash can receive more force than the regulation allows.
At a glance
What can fail
The shift lever bolt on remanufactured transmissions may not be tight enough, causing the shift control lever to unexpectedly disconnect from the transmission.
What the fix does
Dealers will tighten the shift lever bolt or replace the shift lever assembly at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The coolant pump for the motor electronics may wear out and stop working, causing coolant to stop flowing. This creates high temperatures in the motor electronics system, which can cause partial or complete loss of power and sudden stalling while driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will repair the coolant pump system to restore proper coolant flow and motor electronics cooling function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The coolant pump for the hybrid system may fail, causing the hybrid electronics to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the original Motor Electronics Coolant Pump with an improved brushless pump at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The interior trim above the headliner at the left A-pillar doesn't absorb head impact energy properly, exceeding safety limits during testing.
What the fix does
Dealers will modify the energy-absorbing material above the headliner in the affected area at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
