2006 Ford Escape Review
Price Estimate: $1,698 - $2,852
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful V6, large cargo capacity, comfortable interior, carlike handling, optional side curtain airbags.
Cons
- Four-cylinder models feel unrefined at high rpm, so-so interior materials quality.
What’s new
The Ford Escape continues into 2006 with only minor trim and color changes.
Edmunds says
Still one of our favorites in the category, the 2006 Ford Escape is a very capable small SUV thanks to its powerful V6, spacious cabin and carlike handling.
For sale near Miami, FL
34 listings
- 175,386 miles
- 5 Seats, 18 City / 22 Hwy MPG
- 183 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Lakeland, FL
- Features and Specs:
- 20 Combined MPG (18 City/22 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 1FMYU92Z96KB00002
- Stock:
- B00002
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 11-18-2025
- 228,319 miles
- 5 Seats, 19 City / 24 Hwy MPG, Manual
- 426 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Norman Park, GA
- Features and Specs:
- 21 Combined MPG (19 City/24 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 1FMCU92Z86KC93947
- Stock:
- C93947
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 04-10-2026
Vehicle overview
Ford introduced the Escape in 2001 to capture buyers in the rapidly growing small SUV segment. It quickly became a best-seller thanks to a desirable combination of size, power and ruggedly handsome styling. First-year Escapes suffered numerous recalls, but recent models seem to have the bugs worked out. Mazda also sells a version of this vehicle. Called the Tribute, it shares the Escape's basic structure, platform and powertrains. A more luxurious version is also available from Mercury, dubbed the Mariner.
Appealing to a wide range of buyers, the 2006 Ford Escape (and Tribute/Mariner) is intended for those who want the styling and all-wheel-drive capability of a traditional SUV combined with the size, price, practicality and driving characteristics of a midsize car. The Escape is more suited to on-road driving than off-roading, due to its light-duty AWD system and unibody construction, and isn't as rugged as some other compact SUVs like the Nissan Xterra and Jeep Liberty. Its main competitors include vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, Saturn Vue, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.
For 2005, Ford made the Escape a more attainable proposition for budget-conscious buyers by slotting in a 153-hp, 2.3-liter four-cylinder as the base engine choice. The Escape also received a new electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system last year that Ford says provides smoother and more efficient operation. To allay concerns about side-impact safety in small SUVs, full-length side curtain airbags (Ford's Safety Canopy system) are optional. A bland interior has always been one of the Escape's shortcomings, but the 2005 model brightened things up a bit with a fresh set of white-faced gauges and a console-mounted gear selector. Although long-term reliability is not likely to be as good as that of its Japanese competitors, the 2006 Ford Escape is still one of the best compact SUVs available. Consumers shopping in this segment would be wise to take one for a test-drive.
Performance & mpg
Standard on the Escape XLS is a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine that makes 153 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. It is matched to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. There's also the more potent 3.0-liter V6, which makes 200 hp and 193 lb-ft of torque. It is standard on XLT, XLT Sport and Limited models, and comes with an automatic transmission only. With this setup, the Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Safety
ABS is standard on all Escapes, and V6 models have four-wheel disc brakes. The optional Safety Package includes front side-impact airbags and full-length head curtain airbags with a rollover sensor. A reverse-sensing system is optional on the Limited. The 2006 Ford Escape has done well in government crash testing, earning a perfect five stars for the driver in frontal impacts and four stars for the front passenger. In side-impact crash tests, it received five stars for both front- and rear-seat occupants. Less impressive is the Escape's "Acceptable" rating (the second highest) in frontal offset crash test conducted by the IIHS. When equipped with side airbags, the Escape merits a "Good" rating (the highest) from the IIHS for side-impact protection.
Driving
Fun to drive, the 2006 Ford Escape offers impressive road manners for a compact SUV. It drives much like a tautly suspended sedan, with little body roll and responsive steering. The V6 is quite powerful, providing swift acceleration, but fuel economy is mediocre. The four-cylinder is not as smooth or potent, but its decent acceleration and better mileage make it a good option for budget-minded buyers.
Interior
The Escape has never been known for its exciting interior, but most buyers will find the layout functional and user-friendly. The front seats can accommodate adults of all sizes, while the backseat is comfortable for kids and passable for adults. There is 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and you can fold them down to open up 65 cubic feet of capacity, a good figure for this class.
2006 Ford Escape models
The 2006 Ford Escape is available in one four-door body style with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Four trim levels are offered: XLS, XLT, XLT Sport and Limited. XLS versions start you out with basic amenities like air conditioning, a CD player and power windows, mirrors and locks. XLT models add 16-inch alloy wheels, a power driver seat, upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control and an in-dash CD changer. The XLT Sport versions have two-tone exterior paint, black step bars and machined aluminum wheels. The high-line Limited comes with body-color exterior trim, leather upholstery, automatic headlamps and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners consistently appreciate the reliability and versatility of the 2006 Ford Escape. Many have found the V6 engine delivers a powerful performance, whether on long road trips or the daily commute. Its ability to handle tough weather conditions, like Minnesota snow and Canadian ice, stands out as a significant advantage. The Escape boasts a comfortable and spacious interior, making it a hit with families and long-distance travelers alike, even as the miles rack up on the odometer. Drivers often remark on its smooth handling and car-like driving experience, which makes navigating both city streets and rougher terrains enjoyable. Despite being older, the Escape endures with minimal issues when ongoing maintenance is observed, including regular fluid changes and rust prevention measures. Many users value the Escape’s practical features, such as ample cargo space and intuitive interior layout that maximize convenience for those with active lifestyles. The vehicle’s balance between SUV capability and fuel efficiency, especially with the manual transmission, appeals to budget-conscious drivers. Owners express a deep attachment to their Escapes, often intending to maintain them for as long as possible due to the solid driving experience and overall dependability it provides.
Common Issues
Rust is a major issue afflicting the 2006 Ford Escape, often causing significant deterioration in areas such as the frame and engine bay. Many drivers express frustration with the vehicle's tendency for extensive rusting, which necessitates costly repairs to maintain structural integrity. Transmission problems are another common pain point; some owners have reported premature transmission failures resulting in expensive replacements. The vehicle's fuel efficiency is frequently noted as disappointing, particularly with the V6 engine, leading to frequent fuel stops due to a relatively small gas tank. High-speed or rough road driving may also reveal vibrations in the vehicle, suggesting challenges with balancing or tire quality. Some drivers have expressed concerns about road noise, noting that uneven tire wear contributes to a noisy ride. A few owners have experienced a sticking gas pedal, causing anxiety due to potential driving hazards. Complaints about the brake system have arisen as well, with some needing to replace components sooner than anticipated. Interior and exterior build quality also draw criticism, with instances of rattling windows and door seals that allow excessive wind noise.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2006 Ford Escape leaves drivers with mixed feelings about day-to-day usability and long-term ownership. While many praise its strong performance in adverse weather and its hardy nature, there is a shared concern regarding maintenance costs over time. Despite having a powerful V6, which receives appreciation for its acceleration and towing capacity, the frequent trips to the pump due to poor gas mileage are less thrilling. Ownership often involves regular upkeep, particularly related to rust prevention and addressing minor annoyances such as window rattles and road noise. The interior is seen as functional, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo, making it a dependable choice for active families and individuals. However, some find themselves dealing with recurring issues like transmission woes and uneven tire wear, which can detract from the overall driving experience. For those who take meticulous care of their Escapes and invest in occasional repairs, these SUVs have stood the test of time, reaching impressive mileages with minimal fuss. The Escape's ability to blend into both suburban and rugged landscapes is a quality that many drivers admire, favoring the vehicle's simple yet effective design. As daily drivers find a rhythm with their Escapes, balancing performance and upkeep becomes a familiar part of the ownership journey, offering moments of satisfaction amid the occasional mechanical hiccup.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Florida
$201/mo for Escape XLS
Escape XLS
vs
$200/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2006 Ford Escape has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
5 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 15V606000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 15S28
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-03-31 to 2009-09-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 57
- Defect Description:
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured March 31, 2001, to September 1, 2009. The affected vehicles are equipped with either a 2.3L or 3.0L engine and have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
- Corrective Action:
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmissions and either tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S28.
- Recall Number:
- 15E045000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 576
- Defect Description:
- The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
- Defect Consequence:
- Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
- Recall Number:
- 14V526000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 14S19
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-10-13 to 2008-06-20
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 70209
- Defect Description:
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicles manufactured October 13, 2003, to June 20, 2008, and 2006-2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid electric vehicles manufactured June 10, 2005, to June 20, 2008. The coolant pump for the hybrid system may fail resulting in the hybrid electronics overheating.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the hybrid electronics system overheats, it may shut down the powertrain, resulting in a stall-like condition, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the original Motor Electronics Coolant (MEC) Pump with an improved brushless pump, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S19.
- Recall Number:
- 10E043000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 294
- Defect Description:
- MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Defect Consequence:
- AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
- Corrective Action:
- MARATHON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE SEAT COVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MARATHON AT 1-800-735-2769.
- Recall Number:
- 05V520000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 05S40
- Manufactured from:
- 2005-08-29 to 2005-10-17
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 199942
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, PASSENGER CARS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITHOUT GREASE BEING APPLIED TO THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR.
- Defect Consequence:
- AFTER A PERIOD OF CONTINUOUS USE ON THE HIGH SPEED SETTING, LACK OF GREASE ON THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR MAY CAUSE THE GEAR TO DISTORT OR FRACTURE DURING OPERATION RESULTING IN A LOSS OF WIPER FUNCTION. INOPERATIVE WIPERS UNDER INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS COULD CAUSE A CRASH DUE TO IMPAIRED VISIBILITY.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WIPER MOTOR FOR THE PRESENCE OF GREASE AND GREASE THE WIPER MOTOR GEARS IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 22, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673 OR LINCOLN/MERCURY AT 1-800-521-4140.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Ford Escape Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(63%)
4(22%)
3(10%)
2(4%)
1(1%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
great vehicle
4.38 out of 5 starsgaryr32000, 10/05/2011
2006 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
I bought my escape new in 2007 and have had done nothing but change fluids, filters and oil in 60,000 miles. It has been very dependable and has nEver failed to get me from point a to point b. the only issue i have had is a little surface rust on the inside of the bottom of all doors and the hatch. I stopped that with a rust reformer made by rustoleum.
anonymous
3 out of 5 starsojars zvaigzne, 02/24/2016
2006 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
Things I DONT like about my Escape are: noise at highway speeds; insufficient acceleration for a v6; long reach to steering wheel (needs telescopic wheel); poor resale value.
Things I DO like are: interior comfort (both, front and rear); smooth ride, for a compact suv; reliability.
Not a Ford Escape, it is a Mad Max Desert Ship
5 out of 5 starsAaron Harford, 08/23/2015
2006 Ford Escape XLS 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl 4A)
My goodness people, I won't ever get rid of this SUV. Cali and the Mojave desert several times, 206,000 miles and still strong. I feel like its a member of my family. You cannot go wrong. Meat and potatoes, but so reliable you just cannot go wrong. I do not want a new one. Ill just get a factory engine and transmission replacement.....if it ever so happens I need it. It will probably … outlast my body. lol.
Please read this before continuing.
4.75 out of 5 starsdjte, 01/26/2014
2006 Ford Escape XLT 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
This car is amazing. I've driven a few SUVs, but this one takes the cake. I love it. It has been a very reliable car for me and my family for the last 5 years, and it's still going.
Gas is OK for an SUV, but it's an SUV...I wouldnt expect amazing mileage. I've had no problems with it, no repairs needed other than a turn signal bulb. It has 123K miles on it. Spark plugs are due but … that's it. It is very solid, very nicely designed, no complaints at all.
As far as the negative reviews go, there can be a lot of situations leading to the problems (Previous rental, poor care, etc.) I have had none of these problems, inspect your car before you buy.
Thank you Ford!
2006 Escape Features & Specs
XLS
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $19,380 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $201/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 29.3 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Escape include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintAcceptable
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