Problem Reports
Ford Escape Hybrid
Report: Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models
Ford Escape Hybrid Problem
Model Years Affected: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Drive Train Affected: 4WD
Average Mileage: 81,239 mi (33,000 mi - 130,000 mi)
An abnormal noise may develop from the transfer case. At this time parts are not available to repair internal damage to this type of transfer case, replacement is the only option. It is not uncommon for irregular tire wear to cause a similar noise. Diagnoses should be performed to confirm the actual cause of the driveline noise. Tire noise can be reduced by rotating the tires at least every 5000 miles.
-
Visitor, 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 112,000 mi
What an expensive repair! I've been given the option of a new transfer case around 2k or a used one around $800. What a bummer. Like others, I've heard a clunk when in reverse and thought nothing of it. Today on the highway, I wondered if I was going to make it to the repair shop. While the vehicle was on the lift, I heard it for myself. Why isn't Ford stepping up on problems like these?
Flag ThisLike | 1 person likes this1 -
Visitor, 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 130,000 mi
Had the PTO fail for an "unknown reason". Cost was estimated around 2k for new one.
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 110,000 mi
Same issue - PTO exploded - replacement came to $2300
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 75,400 mi
Heard basically the "tin cans tied under the car" and completely lost power to back up all at once. Have new tires and replaced (supposedly) the Transmission Fluid just months ago. Dealer says Power Take Off unit has to be replaced. I asked what could've caused this - said he has no idea.. Says parts and labor are $1312.44 which sounds better than what others are reporting but also sounds like the dealer or Ford should be taking some responsibility..
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 50,000 mi
I started noticing a noise like a fan belt was failing - - it seemed to match the speed of the car versus the rpm of the engine. I took into the dealer and they said the transfer case failed. They indicated that it had been well maintained, fluid level was fine etc. Just failed. Thankfully had an extended warranty to cover everything, including the deductible. Otherwise around $2000 to replace.
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 72,000 mi
Transfer case failed. Car has been well maintained. Sounds to me like a design flaw. Called to order the part and found its on its tenth redesign. You would think Ford would stand by their product and repair these since it is a design flaw
Flag ThisLike0 -
quixotical, 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 75,000 miRookie
After front tire wore off to the core, I changed 2 front tires at the dealer.
Right after collecting car the problem happened:Rubbing(like too metal plates rubbing to
each other) noise from front side ONLY WHEN CAR DECELERATES or REVERSE. The does
not go away for all gear positions (N/D/L), and does not matter the road is smooth or
rough, hard left/right turns etc. However the noise disappears when car accelerates.
Did a check on the hoist, found noise comes from Transfer Case (or PTU as Ford calls it), and was advised to change transfer case.Changed Transfer Case and so far no issue.
So be careful to rotate and change tires frequently to avoid damaging Transfer Case.Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 80,000 mi
Suddenly developed loud noise like dragging tin cans. Took it to AAMCO. They opened the transfer case and reported catastrophic failure of a bearing. New transfer case and labor will run to $1750 plus tax.
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 77,000 mi
Took the car in for a brake check and the dealer told me that the transfer case needs to be replaced because it is leaking. I have experienced a clunk like noise when in reverse but thought that had to do with the regenerative brake system.
Flag ThisLike0 -
Visitor, 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid, 4WD, 33,000 mi
Shavings in transfer case. Took 3 weeks to get replacement.
Flag ThisLike0