2008 to 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid
The Draw: Escape Hybrid owners report enjoyment of reduced fuel consumption and many moments of totally silent, fuel-free driving throughout the course of everyday driving. A sporty and comfortable ride, and a flexible interior, were all rated highly by Escape owners. A commanding driving position, comfortable seats and exterior styling are also favourites.
The Common Issues: Ensure the Escape Hybrid you’re considering has a fresh, newer 12-volt battery on board. This isn’t the hybrid battery, just the one used to start the engine and run small electronic devices. Owners say the 12-volt battery can get tired easily and cause issues with starting and the proper operation of the hybrid system --which has some components powered by the smaller battery.
Have the braking system inspected at a Ford dealer, as brakes on the Escape Hybrid work differently than on a standard Escape -- and some owners reported dangerous loss of brake-system performance or all-out brake failure. In most cases, this is accompanied by associated brake-system warning lights in the instrument cluster.
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| Photo: Rob Rothwell |
The Draw: Escape Hybrid owners report enjoyment of reduced fuel consumption and many moments of totally silent, fuel-free driving throughout the course of everyday driving. A sporty and comfortable ride, and a flexible interior, were all rated highly by Escape owners. A commanding driving position, comfortable seats and exterior styling are also favourites.
The Common Issues: Ensure the Escape Hybrid you’re considering has a fresh, newer 12-volt battery on board. This isn’t the hybrid battery, just the one used to start the engine and run small electronic devices. Owners say the 12-volt battery can get tired easily and cause issues with starting and the proper operation of the hybrid system --which has some components powered by the smaller battery.
Have the braking system inspected at a Ford dealer, as brakes on the Escape Hybrid work differently than on a standard Escape -- and some owners reported dangerous loss of brake-system performance or all-out brake failure. In most cases, this is accompanied by associated brake-system warning lights in the instrument cluster.
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| Photo: Rob Rothwell |