Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford recalls 2013 Focus, C-Max and Escape over faulty child safety locks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We have yet to find any official documentation from either Ford or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but Edmunds and Cars.com are both reporting that there is a recall on the 2013 C-Max, Focus and Escape. All three vehicles were assembled with a faulty child door lock mechanism on the left rear door that might not work properly allowing a child to accidently open the door from the inside.

Affected vehicles were built in the middle of November, 2012 totaling somewhere between 5,600 and just over 7,000 units, and concerned owners can call Ford at 866-436-7332 or NHTSA at 888-327-4236 to see if their vehicles are involved in this recall. The recall doesn't go into effect until March 25, but in the meantime, owners can probably check the operation of the door or position children on the right side of the car, if possible, until the recall has been performed.

Ford recalls 2013 Focus, C-Max and Escape over faulty child safety locks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford c-max2013 ford escape2013 ford focusc-maxc-max recallescapeescape recallfocusfocus recallfordford recallrecallFri, 15 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20505180/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/15/ford-recalls-2013-focus-c-max-and-escape-over-faulty-child-safe/20505180/article-detail.xml 20505180 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ford-c-max-hybrid-fd.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Consumer Reports</em> criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Ecoboost Engine Cover

Consumer Reports has taken aim at at small-displacement, forced-induction engines, saying the powerplants don't manage to deliver on automaker fuel economy claims. Manufacturers have long held that smaller, turbocharged engines pack all power of their larger displacement cousins with significantly better fuel economy, but the research organization says that despite scoring high EPA economy numbers, the engines are no better than conventional drivetrains in both categories. Jake Fisher, director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports, says the forced induction options "are often slower and less fuel efficient than larger four and six-cylinder engines."

Specifically, CR calls out the new Ford Fusion equipped with the automaker's Ecoboost 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The institute's researchers found the engine, which is a $795 option over the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder, fails to match competitors in acceleration and served up 25 miles per gallon in testing, putting the sedan dead last among other midsize options.

The Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Sonata Turbo and Ford Escape 2.0T all got dinged for the same troubles, though Consumer Reports has found the turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the BMW 328i does deliver on its promises. You can check out the full press release below. You can also read the full study on the Consumer Reports site, or scroll down for a short video recap.

Continue reading Consumer Reports criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video]

Consumer Reports criticizes small turbo engines for misleading performance, fuel economy claims [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 3 series2013 chevrolet cruze2013 ford escape2013 ford fusion2013 hyundai sonata3 series328ibmwchevroletchevrolet cruzeconsumer reportscruzeecoboostescapefordford escapeford fusionfuel economyfusionhyundaihyundai sonatasonataturboTue, 05 Feb 2013 10:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20448871/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/consumer-reports-criticizes-small-turbo-engines-for-mis/20448871/article-detail.xml 20448871 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-ecoboost-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-ecoboost-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford details how it will fix recalled fire-risk 2013 Escape and Fusion models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/ford-details-how-it-will-fix-recalled-fire-risk-2013-escape-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/ford-details-how-it-will-fix-recalled-fire-risk-2013-escape-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/ford-details-how-it-will-fix-recalled-fire-risk-2013-escape-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Ford announced today that it has determined the problem and has worked up a fix for the engine fires that have resulted in recalls for 2013 Ford Escape and Fusion models equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. Ford says the fires are being caused by an issue with the cooling system software that fails to properly manage engine temperatures during "unique overheating conditions," which are allowing the engines to get hot enough to start a fire while running. This is the third link to engine fires with faulty fuel lines being the culprit back in July and leaking coolant in September.

To prevent the overheating, Ford will be updating the software for the cooling system, but until then, the automaker says that owners of affected vehicles should not drive their vehicles and contact the dealer to arrange alternative transportation. According to Automotive News, this means that 73,320 owners are still in rental cars costing Ford up to $55 per day. None of the other engines used in these vehicles are involved in the recall.

Scroll down for more details on this recall including contact information for affected owners.

Continue reading Ford details how it will fix recalled fire-risk 2013 Escape and Fusion models

Ford details how it will fix recalled fire-risk 2013 Escape and Fusion models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.6l ecoboost2013 ford escape2013 ford fusionecoboost recallescapeescape recallfordfusionfusion recallrecallTue, 11 Dec 2012 07:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20399069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/11/ford-details-how-it-will-fix-recalled-fire-risk-2013-escape-and/20399069/article-detail.xml 20399069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion

Ford has announced a recall of 89,153 vehicles equipped with 1.6-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engines over the possibility of overheating and, in some instances, fires starting in the engine compartment. The brand new 2013 Fusion accounts for 15,833 of the affected models, the other 73,320 being the 2013 Escape. This is the fourth time the recently launched Escape has been recalled, and this is the third time the recall has involved the 1.6-liter engine.

In a statement issued Friday, Ford confirmed that there have been new reports of these engines overheating, resulting in fires while the engine is running. No injuries have been reported in conjunction with this issue, and Ford states that the affected vehicles' instrument clusters may display warning notifications reading, "Engine Power Reduced to Lower Temps" or "Engine over temp, stop safely."

Ford is currently working on a repair procedure and will notify owners as soon as a fix is found. In the meantime, the automaker is urging owners to stop driving these affected vehicles and to contact a Ford dealer to arrange for alternate transportation at no charge. Owners in the United States may call 866.436.7332 for assistance with securing a different set of wheels (888.222.7814 in Canada).

Fusion and Escape models equipped with 2.5-liter naturally aspirated and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines are not affected by this recall. The Fusion Hybrid is also not affected.

Scroll down to read Ford's official release, which also contains details on how to see if your vehicle is affected by this recall simply by looking at the VIN.

Continue reading Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars

Ford recalling 89k 2013 Fusion and Escape models over engine fires, urges owners to park their cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.6l ecoboost2013 ford escape2013 ford fusionecoboostengine firesescapefordfusionrecallsafetyFri, 30 Nov 2012 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/30/ford-recalling-89k-2013-fusion-and-escape-models-over-engine-fir/20392107/article-detail.xml 20392107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01a-2013-ford-fusion-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #309]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/autoblog-podcast-309/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/autoblog-podcast-309/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/autoblog-podcast-309/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lots of Audi diesels on the way, GM says 500,000 electric cars per year soon, Ford fiesta EcoBoost 1.0, NTSB wants more safety tech

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Episode #309 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Steven Ewing and George Kennedy talk about the coming horde of new Audi diesels, the Ford Fiesta 1.0-liter EcoBoost, GM's 500,000 electric car projection and the NTSB wishing the latest collision avoidance tech were mandatory in all cars. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #309:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2013 Audi S5
2013 Ford Escape

Hosts: Dan Roth, Steven Ewing, George Kennedy


Runtime: 01:40:11

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #309

Autoblog Podcast #309 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 18:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi s52013 ford escape2013 hyundai sonata hybridaudiaudi dieselaudi s5autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 309crash avoidanceescapefeaturedfordgm electrified vehicleshyundaintsb safetypodcast 309s5sonataTue, 20 Nov 2012 18:09:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #309Autoblog01:40:11 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20385160/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/20/autoblog-podcast-309/20385160/article-detail.xml 20385160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Escape named first-ever <i>Popular Mechanics</i> Car Of The Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-escape-named-first-ever-popular-mechanics-car-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-escape-named-first-ever-popular-mechanics-car-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/ford-escape-named-first-ever-popular-mechanics-car-of-the/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Ford Escape - front three-quarter view, static

It's that time of year again. Time for just about publication out there to come up with their Car of the Year winner, and Popular Mechanics is getting into the game for the first time with its Auto Excellence Awards. For its inaugural champion, the crew over at PM have named the 2013 Ford Escape as the Car of the Year.

The Ford snagged the top spot for its attributes like being roomy, fun and practical, and PM says that all of its editors had given it high marks in various categories. There is no indication as to what other contenders vied for the top spot, but the new Escape is definitely a strong new model that's showing handsome sales figures right out of the gate. That being said, the automotive landscape for 2013 is chock full of great vehicles, and we recently put the Escape up against the all-new Mazda CX-5 which squeaked out a win in our head-to-head crossover comparison.

In addition to Car of the Year, PM also had nine other categories for its Auto Excellence Awards which are listed below:

Fun to Drive - Subaru BRZ / Scion FR-S
Performance - Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Hauling - Ram 1500
Luxury - Cadillac ATS
Design - SRT Viper
Versatility - Nissan Pathfinder
Technical Innovation - Tesla Model S
Value - Hyundai Elantra GT
Fuel Efficiency - Toyota Prius c

Ford Escape named first-ever Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapecar of the yearescapefordpopular mechanicsTue, 13 Nov 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378335/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/13/ford-escape-named-first-ever-popular-mechanics-car-of-the/20378335/article-detail.xml 20378335 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shows SEMA-bound Mustang, F-150 and Escape variants]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-shows-sema-bound-mustang-f-150-and-escape-variants/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-shows-sema-bound-mustang-f-150-and-escape-variants/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/ford-shows-sema-bound-mustang-f-150-and-escape-variants/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



After already tipping its hand with a goodly selection of Focus ST concept teasers, as well as a passel of tuned Fusions, Ford has let loose with more images and information regarding its huge presence at this year's SEMA show. And, while we'll be bringing live reports of all the SEMA goodness to you next week, we couldn't help but want to share these last minute previews.

Four Mustang concept sketches have been offered up for our consumption today, including three cars based on the Mustang GT 5.0 and one based on the V6. All three of the GTs carry significant appearance modifications: bigger wheels, bespoke paint jobs and the whole shebang. The Mothers/Autosport Dynamics/RTR car boasts performance upgrades that net some 650 horsepower, while the DSO Eyewear car is kicking out a massive 750 ponies.

A brace of Ford F-150 trucks and one monster F-250 are repping for the pickup segment. Truckin' Magazine has done up a race-ready F-150 with a chopped look, bigger brakes and an upgraded interior. The diesel-powered F-250 is by Kelderman Air Suspension Systems, so it's natural to see that it has an airbag suspension with eight to ten inches of lift.

A few hotted up versions of Ford's new Escape will be presented as well, to round out this fleet of tuned fun by The Blue Oval. Be sure to check in, early and often next week, for live versions of all of the madness. In the meantime, find fuller information on all of these SEMA models in the press release below, and images in the associated galleries.

Continue reading Ford shows SEMA-bound Mustang, F-150 and Escape variants

Ford shows SEMA-bound Mustang, F-150 and Escape variants originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escape2013 ford f-1502013 ford mustangconcept carsescapef-150f-250f-seriesf-series super dutyfordmustangsematuner carsWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20359405/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/ford-shows-sema-bound-mustang-f-150-and-escape-variants/20359405/article-detail.xml 20359405 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/semaringbrothers-mustang-gt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/semaringbrothers-mustang-gt-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brothers From Another Mother Face Off

2013 Ford Escape vs 2013 Mazda CX-5

Not a single part is shared between these two crossovers.

We couldn't do this comparison test a year ago. No, not because the CX-5 is a new nameplate and all-new vehicle for the Mazda brand (okay, that's technically a valid reason), but because until now, Mazda's only small crossover offering was the Tribute - a rebadged version of the trusty last-gen Ford Escape. In fact, it's always been sort of tricky to put Ford and Mazda vehicles in the same comparison test, only because nearly every product in Mazda's stable could be traced back to some sort of Ford platform.

But with the two automakers having officially parted ways, Mazda was forced to create an all-new platform for a small crossover that would play in the same segment as the Escape. And under the lights of the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show last November, both the 2013 CX-5 and 2013 Escape debuted, with representatives from Ford and Mazda alike reassuring us that not a single part is shared between the two crossovers, noting that the two companies were in no way involved in the development of each other's vehicle.

That in mind, we thought it best to pit the Escape and CX-5 against one another to see how the family lines have matured after the divorce.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5

2013 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda CX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escape2013 mazda cx-5comparisoncomparisonscomparocx-5cx5ecoboostescapefeaturedfordmazdaskyactivWed, 24 Oct 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20358385/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/2013-ford-escape-vs-2013-mazda-cx-5-comparison-review/20358385/article-detail.xml 20358385 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cuv-comparo-ford-escape-mazda-cx-5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/cuv-comparo-ford-escape-mazda-cx-5.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Ford test the Escape for NVH issues in a portable chamber]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/13/watch-ford-test-the-escape-for-nvh-issues-in-a-portable-chamber/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/13/watch-ford-test-the-escape-for-nvh-issues-in-a-portable-chamber/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/13/watch-ford-test-the-escape-for-nvh-issues-in-a-portable-chamber/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford NVH testing

All automakers test for noise, vibration and harshness (or NVH) during the development of new vehicles, but Ford Motor Company uses a portable "environmental chamber" that it can take to a specific plant to pull production vehicles from the assembly line for testing. In the case of this video, the portable machine was at Louisville Assembly Plant to test the 2013 Ford Escape during its early launch, but Ford also sent one to Mexico during the early build of the new Ford Fusion.

These mobile testing facilities are housed inside of semi trailers, and in addition to having four posts that can be positioned under each wheel to simulate driving over various roads, the chambers can also vary in temperature from 20 degrees below zero Fahrenheit to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. All of this can be changed and controlled using computers. During the tests, technicians and engineers sit inside the vehicle and listen for any squeaks or rattles. The benefit of having such a device on hand rather than sending the car to Dearborn is that problems can be detected earlier and resolved sooner.

Check out the video below to see how Ford's mobile quality control system works.

Continue reading Watch Ford test the Escape for NVH issues in a portable chamber

Watch Ford test the Escape for NVH issues in a portable chamber originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeescapefordnoise vibration harshnessnvhnvh testingquality controlvideoSat, 13 Oct 2012 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347346/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/13/watch-ford-test-the-escape-for-nvh-issues-in-a-portable-chamber/20347346/article-detail.xml 20347346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-nvh-testing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ford-nvh-testing.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 earn four-star NHTSA crash rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2013 Ford Escape and 2013 Mazda CX-5 are both impressive new crossovers that bring plenty to the table for buyers. Top safety marks, however, seem to have been left off of the menu.

These popular new crossovers are just the first of among 54 new cars to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and both received a four-star overall crash rating, out of a possible five stars.

While a four-star rating is still pretty respectable, this announcement does come on the heels of three separate recalls that have been issued for the new Escape since its introduction this summer. The good news for Ford, at least, is that the new model received a five-star rating for side impact. That, with four stars for frontal crash and rollover protection, add up to the four-star overall rating. The all-new Mazda CUV duplicated those scores.

Despite not getting a perfect five stars, each of these vehicles are safer than their respective predecessors, the previous-generation Escape and the Mazda Tribute, which had three stars across all four categories.

Also in the list of crossovers getting a four-star rating is the updated 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport although this is the same as the 2012 model year.

Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 earn four-star NHTSA crash rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escape2013 mazda cx-5crash safetycrossover safetycx-5escapefordmazdanational highway trafiic safety administrationnhtsaFri, 21 Sep 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20328890/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/21/ford-escape-mazda-cx-5-earn-four-star-nhtsa-crash-rating/20328890/article-detail.xml 20328890 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape recalled for third time, again for fire risk [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/05/2013-ford-escape-recalled-for-third-time-again-for-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/05/2013-ford-escape-recalled-for-third-time-again-for-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/05/2013-ford-escape-recalled-for-third-time-again-for-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Escape

Oh dear. As if the previous two recalls weren't bad enough, the brand new 2013 Ford Escape is under fire yet again for, well, fire. Or at least the potential for it.

According to The Detroit News, 7,600 Escape models - 6,150 of which are in the United States - equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine are being recalled due to a faulty cup plug in the engine cylinder head. In the event this cup dislodges, coolant could rapidly leak and create what The Detroit News calls a "combustible glycol concentration" that can catch fire near hot engine components. According to Ford, this recall only affects vehicles with manually installed cup plugs and that only approximately 0.4 percent of the recalled Escapes will have faulty parts. The vehicles in question were built between October 5, 2011 and August 31, 2012.

Ford has not received any reports of fires from customers, though one Escape reportedly caught fire at a dealership in Tennessee.

Back in July, Ford recalled the 2013 Escape due to faulty engine compartment fuel lines in vehicles fitted with the 1.6-liter engine, and asked owners to stop driving the vehicles immediately. The Detroit News reports that Ford will not be issuing a similar warning regarding this new recall because the threat of a fire is much smaller. Also in July, 10,000 Escapes were recalled over a brake pedal interference issue.

Neither Ford or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued an official statement as of this writing.

UPDATE: NHTSA has released its official statement, which you can read below.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape recalled for third time, again for fire risk [UPDATE]

2013 Ford Escape recalled for third time, again for fire risk [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Sep 2012 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeecoboostengine fireescapefordrecallsafetyWed, 05 Sep 2012 16:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317023/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/05/2013-ford-escape-recalled-for-third-time-again-for-fire-risk/20317023/article-detail.xml 20317023 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/01-2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #292]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/autoblog-podcast-292/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/autoblog-podcast-292/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/autoblog-podcast-292/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2013 Cadillac ATS, Nürburgring going broke, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL, Ford Escape last-place finish

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Episode #292 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week Dan, Zach and Steven Ewing chat about the 2013 Cadillac ATS, the possibility of the Nürburgring going bust, the 2013 Mercedes GL-Class, and the surprising last-place finish of a Ford Escape in a recent comparo. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #292:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
2013 Volkswagen CC 2.0T
2012 Nissan Murano
2013 Acura ILX Hybrid
2013 Scion FR-S


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Steven Ewing
Runtime: 01:26:50
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Autoblog Podcast #292 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan murano2012 volkswagen cc2013 acura ilx2013 fiat 500 abarth2013 ford escape2013 mercedes benz gl2013 scion frsautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 292featurednurburgringTue, 24 Jul 2012 17:30:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #292Autoblog01:26:50 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20285058/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/autoblog-podcast-292/20285058/article-detail.xml 20285058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Supplier to blame for Escape engine recall?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/supplier-to-blame-for-escape-engine-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/supplier-to-blame-for-escape-engine-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/supplier-to-blame-for-escape-engine-recall/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Escape

More details have surfaced in the latest 2013 Ford Escape recall, with blame for problematic fuel lines falling on supplier TI Automotive, according to Reuters. Ford told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the defective fuel lines were "mechanically scored," which could cause the lines to leak.

The recall was announced last week, with Ford asking owners to park their vehicles because of the threat of engine fires posed by the leaky fuel lines. Yesterday it became known that Ford would be reimbursing dealers an extra $300 per customer vehicle serviced under the recall.

Ford's desire to expediently wrap up the recall and its negative publicity will surely cost the automaker, but not nearly as much as we had previously estimated. According to the report, Ford has sold 4,800 of the 11,500 Escape crossovers covered in the recall, vehicles that were built between October 8, 2011 and July 11, 2012. That means the additional $300 payments would cost the automaker $1.44 million.

TI Automotive continues to provide fuel lines for the Escape, according to Reuters, and has fixed the manufacturing problem.

Supplier to blame for Escape engine recall? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeescapeescape recallfordford escape recallnhtsarecallrecallsti automotiveTue, 24 Jul 2012 10:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284661/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/supplier-to-blame-for-escape-engine-recall/20284661/article-detail.xml 20284661 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1343133950_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1343133950.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #292 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-292-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-292-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-292-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We record Episode #292 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below and chime in to direct our conversation. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #292
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #292 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac ats2013 ford escape2013 mercedes benz glautoblog podcastautoblog podcast topicsford escapemercedes glnurburgringpodcast topicsMon, 23 Jul 2012 17:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284094/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/23/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-292-live/20284094/article-detail.xml 20284094 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford paying dealers $300 to fix each recalled Escape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/ford-paying-dealers-300-to-fix-each-recalled-escape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/ford-paying-dealers-300-to-fix-each-recalled-escape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/23/ford-paying-dealers-300-to-fix-each-recalled-escape/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ford Escape

How important is the launch of the redesigned Escape to Ford? Apparently enough that Dearborn is throwing money at dealers to try and make the new model's teething problems go away, and fast.

According to The Detroit Free Press, Ford is giving dealers a $300 spiff for each recalled 2013 Ford Escape they repair for a customer, with a goal of having all 11,500 Escapes that have been recalled for potentially leaky fuel lines fixed within two weeks. The recall is a particularly serious one, as it could lead to an engine fire.

Some simple math says that Ford could pay out as much as $3.45 million in extra compensation to its dealers. Clearly the company wants to avoid the problems it had launching the original Escape in 2000, which was recalled multiple times soon after going on sale.

Ford is recommending 2013 Escapes subject to the recall not be driven until repaired, and customers are being issued loaner vehicles in the meantime, according to the report. Dealers have also been instructed to top off the tanks and wash and vacuum the vehicles they service under the recall.

Ford paying dealers $300 to fix each recalled Escape originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeescapeescape recallfordford escape recallrecallrecallsMon, 23 Jul 2012 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284082/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/23/ford-paying-dealers-300-to-fix-each-recalled-escape/20284082/article-detail.xml 20284082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1343066096_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1343066096.jpg <![CDATA[How does Ford measure its interiors? Ping pong balls.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/how-does-ford-measure-its-interiors-ping-pong-balls/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/how-does-ford-measure-its-interiors-ping-pong-balls/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/how-does-ford-measure-its-interiors-ping-pong-balls/#commentsFiled under: , ,

ford escape interior with ping pong balls in the cupholder

A ping-pong ball has a volume of about 2 cubic inches, and a 2013 Ford Escape holds nearly 60,000. Why is this important? Ford uses the balls to measure vehicle interior capacity for both its own cars and competitors'. Of course, there are traditional measuring tools that you'd expect Ford engineers and designers to use, but it's been hard to do anything but estimate the amount of space in oddly-shaped locations like glove compartments and door pockets.

Ford says ping-pong balls deliver better accuracy than more tedious measurement techniques, and its engineers have also figured out how to measure the volume of the space between balls. So while an image like the one you see above might initially look like the work of pranksters, it's just Ford's engineers getting better measuremenents than ever before. Keep reading for the full scoop.

Continue reading How does Ford measure its interiors? Ping pong balls.

How does Ford measure its interiors? Ping pong balls. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeford interior volume ping pongford ping pong ballsSat, 21 Jul 2012 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20281334/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/21/how-does-ford-measure-its-interiors-ping-pong-balls/20281334/article-detail.xml 20281334 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-ping-pong_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ford-ping-pong.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape suffers second recall <i>this week</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-ford-escape-suffers-second-recall-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-ford-escape-suffers-second-recall-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-ford-escape-suffers-second-recall-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Escape

This is shaping up to be a pretty bad week for the brand spankin' new 2013 Ford Escape. Just three days ago, a recall was announced concerning a brake interference issue, and today, the Escape is under fire for, well, fire. Or at least the possibility of it.

Escape models fitted with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine are being recalled due to a faulty engine compartment fuel line which could possibly split and leak fuel. You know the natural progression from there - leaky fuel in the engine can potentially cause a fire underhood.

Ford is currently advising its owners not to drive their vehicles. The automaker is having dealerships deliver loaner vehicles to these customers and dealer representatives will transport the affected Escapes to the service bay for repair. The full repair should reportedly take about an hour to complete, depending on part availability.

Escape models fitted with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost and naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four are not affected by this recall. Ford estimates that roughly 11,500 models in North America will be recalled due to this issue, most of which are in the United States.

Heck, this hasn't even been a good week for older Escapes. 2002-2004 models are drawing new scrutiny from investigators following accusations that Ford botched a recall over an accelerator cable issue, issuing a fix that may have resulted in damaged cruise control cables. The recall happened seven years ago, and the investigation covers some 470,000 examples of the popular SUV.

Scroll down for the official release.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape suffers second recall this week

2013 Ford Escape suffers second recall this week originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeescapefordnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallThu, 19 Jul 2012 10:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20281590/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/19/2013-ford-escape-suffers-second-recall-this-week/20281590/article-detail.xml 20281590 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-ford-escape-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Explorer - green - front three-quarter view

A Ford factory employee noticed a potential issue with the carpet padding on the left side of the center console trim on the 2013 Ford Escape that has resulted in a recall of the hot-selling new crossover. If the padding gets out of position, it can push the trim piece out, reducing the clearance for the driver's feet between the accelerator and brake pedal. When the driver moves his or her foot from the accelerator and brake, it foot might hit the side of the brake pedal and increase the stopping distance.

Ford has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a full recall of all 10,000 Escape models has been initiated - that's 8,266 here in the States, a couple thousand in Canada and a couple hundred in Mexico. Owners will be notified later this month, at which time they can take their vehicles to the dealer for repair free of charge. Check out the notice from NHTSA below.

Continue reading Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue

Ford recalls 10,000+ 2013 Escape crossovers for brake-pedal interference issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapecanadaescapefordford escape recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallMon, 16 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20278440/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/16/ford-recalls-10-000-2013-escape-crossovers-for-brake-pedal-inte/20278440/article-detail.xml 20278440 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordescapetrim_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/fordescapetrim.jpg <![CDATA[Ford kicks off 2013 Escape assembly [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/ford-kicks-off-2013-escape-assembly-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/ford-kicks-off-2013-escape-assembly-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/ford-kicks-off-2013-escape-assembly-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2013 Ford Escape is now a production reality, the completely redesigned crossover now rolling off the lines at Ford's Louisville assembly plant. Still a top seller in its last model year, the brand-new 1.6-liter EcoBoost Escape gets 22 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and yes, the $23,295 base model does get pricey very quickly when you start ticking the reams of options boxes. Nevertheless, the Escape surpassed the 8,000-orders mark before any customer had even driven it.

Its looks have found some detractors, but we have a feeling that it won't have any problem finding new homes. Scroll down for a video of plant workers talking about production processes, and a press release on what the Escape's production has meant to the area.

Continue reading Ford kicks off 2013 Escape assembly [w/video]

Ford kicks off 2013 Escape assembly [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeescapefordford escapelouisvillelouisville assembly plantplantsvideoThu, 14 Jun 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20258125/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/14/ford-kicks-off-2013-escape-assembly-w-video/20258125/article-detail.xml 20258125 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/fordescapeproduction_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/fordescapeproduction.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/#commentsFiled under: ,



When we drove the all-new Escape recently, Ford was still awaiting official EPA certification for fuel economy. Now, though, the numbers are in, and the Blue Oval can confidently state that it offers the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the small crossover segment... with an automatic transmission, that is.

The hero engine for the new Escape is Ford's new 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four, offering up 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine is good for 23 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg highway, besting the highway numbers of the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and others. At 33 mpg, this means the new Escape is not only more efficient than the outgoing four-cylinder model, but it bests the numbers of the old Escape Hybrid, too.

But again, this only pertains to automatic transmission-equipped vehicles (the Escape does not offer a manual transmission with any of its powertrains). The 2013 Mazda CX-5 with its 2.0-liter Skyactiv inline-four and six-speed manual 'box is rated at 35 mpg highway, but opting for the six-speed auto drops that number to 32 mpg.

The other powertrains offered in the Escape are returning some pretty impressive fuel economy numbers, too. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter base engine is rated at 22/31 mpg, and the range-topping 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque is good for 22/30 mpg. Scroll down for the full details in Ford's press release.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG

2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeecoboostescapeescape epaescape fuel economyfordfuel economyFri, 27 Apr 2012 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/20224880/article-detail.xml 20224880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1335452688_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1335452688.jpg -1 2