2004 Ford Escape steering problems
26 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the steering on the 2004 Ford Escape — 5% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“after experiencing steering issues with this vehicle I had it inspected by a mechanic and was told the sub frame was rusted out. my research indicated repairs may be covered under a recall for this issue but found no recalls for this vin. the problem is exactly as described on the Ford web site yet…”
filed Jun 28, 2021
“in an attempt t improve the safety and drivability of m 2004 ford escape I went to have my shocks, struts, control arms, sway bar end links and ball joints and steering arms replaced. upon the installation I was informed that the rust on the sub frame is at a critical level and in danger of…”
filed May 28, 2021
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Steering problems in other Escape years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Escape | 1 | 5% |
| 2022 Escape | 4 | 2% |
| 2021 Escape | 4 | 1% |
| 2020 Escape | 18 | 1% |
| 2019 Escape | 16 | 3% |
| 2018 Escape | 32 | 2% |
| 2017 Escape | 49 | 2% |
| 2016 Escape | 73 | 7% |
| 2015 Escape | 79 | 8% |
| 2014 Escape | 151 | 7% |
| 2013 Escape | 302 | 11% |
| 2012 Escape | 137 | 23% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2004 Ford Escape
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.