2003 Ford Escape Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.39/5 Average
260 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Need more luxury when you Escape? For 2003, Ford will offer a new Limited edition that includes body-color trim, polished aluminum wheels, a reverse sensing system, a Mach audio system with six-disc CD changer, heated front seats and sideview mirrors, premium leather seats, front side airbags and an autodimming rearview mirror. The XLT can also be upgraded this year with an appearance package that includes special wheels, side step bars and body-color exterior trim. For all 2003 Ford Escapes, there are upgraded interior materials and fabrics, an available two-tone cabin color scheme, illuminated power window and lock switches and three new colors. Finally, the XLS 4WD with a four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission is dropped for 2003.

Pros:
  • Powerful V6, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, car-like handling.
Cons:
  • Weak standard four-cylinder engine, small gas tank size limits range.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 260.00
  • premature brake wear and failure - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Our Ford Escape has only 12200kms. On July 31 2003 we were involved in a collision where the brakes failed in a panic stop situation. Dealership would not check the brakes under warranty so we are now involved in a law suit to recover damages due to the fact that there were two other vehicles in the collision. Brakes were spongy and alot of brake residue left on the wheels.This vehicle is driven in normal city driving situations+

  • Great Buy - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I have enjoyed the ride, comfort and pleasure of owning this vehicle. It is all that I hoped it would be!

  • Ford Escape 2003 - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Would not buy this car again. Inferior interior with knobs breaking off or falling off after 1.5 yrs Would frequently not go in reverse, and had to be put back in park and tried again. The dealer said they "couldnt find anything wrong." Very uncomfortable seats. No back support at all. In spite of this, I realized I like a smaller SUV just not this one.

  • Disappointed - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Im very disappointed. I Have 13000 miles and had to have my transmission replaced. Ford would not replace with a new one so on a 1yr old car I now have a rebuilt transmission. The service I received from the dealership was the worst experiance Ive ever had. This is the second time Ive had it in for stalling reasons. I will never buy another Ford car. I DO NOT feel confident driving this SUV.

  • Love it - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    So far my Escape has been fun and reliable. We use it for camping and long trips. I am also on the short side. What I like the most is the adjustable seat and that I dont have to sit on top of the steering wheel to reach the pedals.

  • Ford Escape XLS - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    This has been a good mini SUV with few problems. I had my radio/CD player replaced and my tires are not wearing as well as my previous "Ford Explorer". I get 20.2 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The tan interior cloth shows spots "very easily" compared to gray or a pattern design cloth. I think Ford should have included privacy glass to protect children and making a cheap roof rack a $75.00 option and floor mats an option still bothers me. The XLT comes with these things but you will not get the value back on re-sell.

  • Luv it - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    Ive had my Escape for 2 mos and just love it. Its small enough to not be cumbersome (Im a petite person)and big enough for my big guy hubby to fit into it comfortably. The ride is very carlike, it has great pickup and I love the cargo space that it has, without having to be in a big SUV.

  • So far, so good. - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    15k so far and only a couple of minor problems. Has great acceleration for a v6 and we get 22-24 mpg. Wife loves the heated seats, backup beeper and the moonroof. Enough room in the back for the kids.

  • Lemon or not a Lemon - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    In the beginning the vehicle was great. I did all the required servicing of the vehicle. But, after I had gotten to about 21,000 miles something went tottaly wrong. The head gasket blew, which caused me to be without my vehicle for 3 weeks. My local dealership told me they needed to replace the whole engine, since it was shot. Soon after the new engine was in place, i noticed some tapping noises at under 25mph. So, I took it back and at 25,000 miles the exhaust manifold had to be replaced. Now that I have 34,000 miles on it I am noticing more noises coming from the enginge compartment, along with sluggish shifting between gears. What is the problem now?

  • I would buy another one today! - 2003 Ford Escape
    By -

    I have owned my 2003 Ford Escape 4x4 for the last 5 years. We bought it used with about 90,000 miles on it. Now I have only put 30, 000 on it myself, but it has been a great little truck for my family. It fit two carseats comfortably in the back, with easy access to them through the side doors. The drivers seat is comfortable and adjustable. My only issue was the placement of the ignition keyhole. My husband replaced the battery with a great cold-start one early on, and it has started every single time in cold Ohio winters. He did the brakes regularly, and the only other issue we had was with the coil packs. Once we replaced those, the car ran perfectly. It handles easily and feels very small compared the the mini-van we just had to invest in. I am looking forward to owning one again someday!

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