3 Star Reviews for 2008 Ford Escape

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.15/5 Average
214 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2008 Ford Escape gets a makeover inside and out. This means new sheet metal that mimics the look of newer and recently redesigned Ford models (such as the Edge and Expedition) and a more attractive and functional cabin. Under the skin, however, the chassis and powertrain are virtually unchanged, meaning this "redesigned" Escape has the same running gear as before.

Pros:
  • Comfortable interior, impressive list of standard safety features.
Cons:
  • Lackluster performance, braking and fuel efficiency compared to rivals, folding down second seat a multistep process.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 214.00
  • Transmission issue while towing - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    Last week, I was carrying 1100 lbs of household goods from Vandenberg AFB, Lompoc, CA to Malstrom AFB, Great Falls, MT, when I experienced major transmission problems. The Transmission Cooler sprung a leak, causing 5 qts of tran. fluid to leak out. The gears wouldnt shift correctly from first to second gear and the car was stalling at every stop light. After a $900 bill, I thought the issue was the weight, but the car could tow over 3500 lbs, according to the manual. If I were you, I wouldnt buy this car or you will eventually have the same problems. The car is under powered and Fords manufacturing quality is still poor.

  • Not what I expected - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    08 Escape XLS AWD is part of company car plan, best option of the 3 choices offered. Have had vehicle for 6 weeks, and just hit 5000 miles. Overall rate vehicle as fair. Unimpressed with engine power, cabin noise and vibration. Drivers seat is horrible, will fatigue you on short trips. Mileage is good (24 mpg on average mainly hwy). Little features missing like auto headlight shutoff, daylight running lights and seatback pockets. Had issue with vehicle starting after sitting for 2 days during first 1500 miles (imagine what might be in store after it gets 50k or more on it). I keep hoping for the best... but this isnt even close.

  • I have a lemon - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    I bought my 2008 For Escape in Jan 2008. First 2000 miles was good I had no complaints. Then a rattle started in the back hatch. The rattle would get worse until the back hatch would work its way loose and the light indicator on the dash would come on that I had a door open.wWuld stop the vehicle get out shut the hatch. Ive had it to the dealership 11 times for this. Now it leaks when it rains in the front drivers floorboard. Ive had it back 3 times for the leak, still none of the problems are fixed.

  • Nightmare - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    My experience of the Escape has been a nightmare! I am on my second 2008 Escape this year. The first one had braking issues and after being in the shop for an entire month, they exchanged me for another 2008 Escape. This one has been no different. I have owned this one for 9 days and already it will be in the shop for 3 days for ABS, Traction control and a loud Vibration that actually slows the vehicle down. All the issues with both have been rear end and braking issues. Not good! I have been in rental vehicles for 5 weeks now. So not only did I get one lemon, I actually have had two! Ive driven Ford all my life so this is my 1st bad experience. Not very good gas mileage, not what was specified.

  • A large step down - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    After owning an Explorer, I decided to move down to the Escape. Over all I was unimpressed. I expected more from a Ford SUV and loved my Explorer. I wanted something a bit smaller and was hoping it would handle slightly better. What I ended up with was a lot less room, and an SUV built for someone who could not afford a real one. I would not reccomend this to my friends.

  • Fun car with a lot of problems - 2008 Ford Escape
    By -

    Bought this car in July 08. Replaced an 06 Ford Escape. Have had nothing but problems. I love the car design, comfort, features. So far I have had it in the shop 4 times, in 4 months! Starting with a steering problem. The left boot shaft keeps slipping. Ford has informed me that they have no fix and to just keep bringing it back in. replaced shocks, struts, set toe, recalibrated steering wheel, caster camber,alingment etc. all within 3,000 miles. Now at 8,000 miles, I have taken it in for a right front half shaft leak, cv boot, which leaked on and blew the engine sensor. Replaced the engine sensor, oxygen sensor, instrument panel. Now the steering is sloppy again and taking it back again!

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