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[NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Owners of Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan models, listen up. According to a report on Automotive News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into these four vehicles totaling an estimated 725,000 units. The investigation appears to center around a malfunctioning throttle body on non-hybrid models of the 2005-2012 Escape and 2011-2012 Fusion. With Mercury dying off after the 2011 model year, this probe will also apply to the 2005 through 2011 Mariner and the 2011 Milan. There has been some discussion around the Escape stalling issue for some time now, but this investigation appears to be larger in scope than before.

Though not a recall yet, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 123 complaints of stalling or surging vehicles, while Ford itself has logged 1,472 complaints. The investigation report, which is posted below, seems to indicate that a faulty circuit board for the throttle body could cause the vehicle to go into limp mode, which, according to NHTSA, could cause complaints of both stalling and surging.

Continue reading NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue

NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escapefordford escape stalling problemford safetyfusionmarinermercurymilannational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanhtsa investigationMon, 25 Feb 2013 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20476921/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/20476921/article-detail.xml 20476921 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2012-ford-escape_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2012-ford-escape.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[Couple sues Ford because Escape lemon replacement is wrong color [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/couple-sues-ford-because-escape-lemon-replacement-is-wrong-color/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/couple-sues-ford-because-escape-lemon-replacement-is-wrong-color/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/couple-sues-ford-because-escape-lemon-replacement-is-wrong-color/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Escape Sangria Red

The self-proclaimed "King of Lemon Laws" strikes again. This time with a couple in Wisconsin whose 2010 Ford Escape was in the shop for more than 30 days within the first year of ownership due to transmission problems. The couple hired Vince Megna after Ford replaced their Sangria Red Escape (shown above) with a stone-colored interior with a Steel Blue 2012 model with a darker charcoal-colored interior.

Ford claims that it properly followed the procedure of the Wisconsin lemon law, which Ford's lawyer argues requires automakers to replace the lemon with a similar vehicle, not an exact replacement. The judge presiding over the case compared this color issue to a black Cadillac versus a Mary Kay-pink Cadillac. If the Porters win the lawsuit, they will be able to receive as much as double the price of the $25,000 Escape in compensation as well as any attorney's fees.

Let us know what you think of this case in the poll below.

View Poll

Couple sues Ford because Escape lemon replacement is wrong color [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford escapeescapefordlemon lawvince megnawisconsin lemon lawMon, 07 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20419842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/couple-sues-ford-because-escape-lemon-replacement-is-wrong-color/20419842/article-detail.xml 20419842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2010-ford-escape_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2010-ford-escape.jpg <![CDATA[Lincoln MKC crossover headed for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fresh off the launch of the stylish new MKZ sedan, the newly named Lincoln Motor Company is reportedly preparing for a lineup expansion. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the first new product joining the Lincoln brand is a small crossover based on the Ford Escape said to be called the MKC. We saw this machine testing a few months ago, and while we were hoping the name might be reserved for a future two-door model or even the diminutive Concept C hatchback, it looks like the "C" will stand for compact crossover instead.

The report also says that this crossover will be making its debut next month at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, so we'll have to wait until then to see what the new model looks like. Unlike the MKX, which is based off the Ford Edge, we would expect there to be a lot more differentiation between the MKC and the Escape like Ford managed to do with the newest Fusion and MKZ.

In addition to the new MKC, the article states new MKS and Navigator designs are expected to debut by 2014.

Lincoln MKC crossover headed for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto show2014 lincoln mkccuvdetroitdetroit 2012escapelincolnlincoln crossoverlincoln motor companyluxury crossovermkcWed, 19 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20406146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/20406146/article-detail.xml 20406146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628.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[NHTSA probing Ford Escape over throttle issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/nhtsa-probing-ford-escape-over-throttle-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/nhtsa-probing-ford-escape-over-throttle-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/nhtsa-probing-ford-escape-over-throttle-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Ford Escape - black - front three-quarter view

According to the Associated Press, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is training its gaze on 2005-2012 Ford Escape. According to the report, the federal safety agency has opened a probe at the behest of the North Carolina Consumers Council, which petitioned for an investigation following a pair of complaints related to throttle issues.

The council noted in its petition that Ford has previously acknowledged a problem with hesitation and stalling in Escape models, as it has issued a series of technical service bulletins to its dealer body to deal with the issue.

The NHTSA inquiry is not a full-blown investigation at this time and there is no recall pending. No crashes or injuries have been reported due to the problem, but up to 1.6 million examples of the popular crossover could be affected if NHTSA's study does trigger a recall.

NHTSA probing Ford Escape over throttle issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2006 ford escape2007 ford escape2008 ford escape2009 ford escape2010 ford escape2011 ford escape2012 ford escapeescapeescape throttlefordford escape safetynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaSat, 06 Oct 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20342887/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/06/nhtsa-probing-ford-escape-over-throttle-issue/20342887/article-detail.xml 20342887 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2008-ford-escape-black_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2008-ford-escape-black.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[Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Just weeks before the Paris Motor Show, Ford Motor Co. has taken the wraps off of much of its new lineup for Europe in an effort to shore up its efforts for European dealers. The webcast press conference from Amsterdam ended with the official announcement that the Dearborn, Michigan-based car maker will officially make the Mustang available for Autobahn runs and cobble stone street drifting.

"We'll have more details on the Mustang coming to Europe later this year," CEO Alan Mulally said, as he stood before a crowd of more than 2,500 dealers, enthusiasts and reporters. Thousands more watched him and other key Ford executives tout the company's accelerated plans to introduce more global vehicles to Europe.

The Old Country has been problematic in recent years as its stagnant economy has cost automakers billions. Ford lost $404 million in Europe in the second quarter of 2012 and expects Europe to continue to drag down the company's global profitability in the near future. But instead of going on the defensive, Ford has launched its own path to prosperity, Mulally said. The company can't afford to try the same old formulas.

"Six years ago, we developed our One Ford plan," Mulally said, "Now, we're bringing that plan to Europe."

Scroll down to continue reading.

Continue reading Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles

Ford Europe goes further with American vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyecoboostecosportedgeescapefiestafordford europefusionkugamondeomustangone fordsporttransittransit connectThu, 06 Sep 2012 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/ford-europe-goes-further-with-american-vehicles/20317705/article-detail.xml 20317705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gofurther-attheevent048-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gofurther-attheevent048-opt.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[Is Lincoln getting its own version of the Ford Escape?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/is-lincoln-getting-its-own-version-of-the-ford-escape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/is-lincoln-getting-its-own-version-of-the-ford-escape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/is-lincoln-getting-its-own-version-of-the-ford-escape/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lincoln MKD

Lincoln may be working on a new small crossover built on the same platform as the Ford Escape. Our spy photographers recently spotted this early development vehicle out on public streets around Detroit. Slightly larger than its non-luxury sire, the model may bow with a new interpretation of the Ecoboost four-cylinder. It doesn't take a keen eye to spot the larger intercooler stuck low in the hacked front fascia of the Escape. Word has it the vehicle could make use of a new 2.7-liter turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine, though power figures are still absent at the moment.

What will Lincoln call its newest addition? Chances are the company will stick with the confusing MK-based naming structure it currently uses, and early reports hint the CUV may fly under the MKD banner. Why D? Your guess is as good as ours. The luxury CUV segment is a volume powerhouse at the moment, and Lincoln would be wise to offer buyers a product in that segment. Whether the MKD can manage to be more than a gussied-up Ford remains to be seen, however.

Is Lincoln getting its own version of the Ford Escape? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escapefordford escapelincolnlincoln crossoverlincoln mkdlincoln small crossovermkdspy shotsMon, 13 Aug 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20299800/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/13/is-lincoln-getting-its-own-version-of-the-ford-escape/20299800/article-detail.xml 20299800 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling 485,000 2001-04 Escapes to fix unintended acceleration threat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/ford-recalling-485-000-last-gen-escapes-to-fix-unintended-accele/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/ford-recalling-485-000-last-gen-escapes-to-fix-unintended-accele/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/26/ford-recalling-485-000-last-gen-escapes-to-fix-unintended-accele/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It was just last week that the 2013 Ford Escape suffered two separate recalls mere days apart, and today, we have news of a third.

This latest recall affects 485,000 2001-2004 Escapes with the 3.0-liter V6 engine and cruise control. These vehicles could experience unintended acceleration caused by their cruise control cable interfering with the throttle cable when the cruise is engaged. The potential interference between the two cables was not present when these vehicles left the factory, but rather was introduced later by repair procedures for another recall.

Ford originally recalled these Escapes in December 2004 to address an accelerator cable assembly defect. After discovering that its repair procedure could cause new problems, the automaker updated the repair procedure in October 2005. By that time, however, The Detroit News reports that 320,000 Escapes had already been fixed using the old procedure and their owners were never notified of the potential damage that was caused.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reports of 99 incidents alleging unintended acceleration in 2001-2004 Ford Escapes, as well as its mechanical twin at the time, the Mazda Tribute. Of those, 13 crashes and nine injuries were reported. In January, a 17-year-old died in Arizona while driving a 2002 Ford Escape that had been repaired before the updated repair procedure was available.

Ford's decision to implement this recall comes a week after the automaker was called out by the consumer group Center for Auto Safety to dispense with any investigation and recall the vehicles immediately.

Continue reading Ford recalling 485,000 2001-04 Escapes to fix unintended acceleration threat

Ford recalling 485,000 2001-04 Escapes to fix unintended acceleration threat originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escapefordnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsafetyunintended accelerationThu, 26 Jul 2012 16:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/26/ford-recalling-485-000-last-gen-escapes-to-fix-unintended-accele/20287251/article-detail.xml 20287251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/02escapexlt-1343332660_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/02escapexlt-1343332660.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[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 -1 2