Escape 2001 - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

oneyedmason · 05-14-2009, 16:57

I am thinking about buying a 2001 Escape and went to see it today and test drove it, all was fine but when I put it in park and went to check the engine compartment I noticed that the idle seemed very high but when I checked the dial it was under 1000 RPM's. I asked the seller and he indicated that it had been that way since he bought the vehicle. Can anyone tell me if this is something to worry about?

A friend that was there with me also noticed that when I put the car in reverse, the engine like tilted forward, is this a sign of a broken motor mount.

Any advice or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

**360ci** · 05-16-2009, 18:36

If the engine jolted forward substantially, it could be a motor AND transmission mount, depending on the miles. If the vehicle has lower miles and the engine is jerking around when you place the transmission in gear, I'd stay away. The high idle is most likely due to a dirty TB, or some sensors, such as IAC (idle air control valve), and possibly the TPS (throttle position sensor), both of which can affect idle. If the idle stays around 900rpms after you've driven the vehicle for a while then I wouldn't worry too much about that. My Taurus 3.0L V6 idles around 650-750rpm, but the bottom 500rpm on my tach is shortened, so hard to get an accurate number.

If you haven't already, be sure to ask for previous maintenance records, as this will be a good indication that the owner has taken care of the vehicle. If all the records he/she gives you are for oil changes, ask about other items such as transmission service, coolant changes, brake fluid flush and tune ups. Alas, make sure ALL fluids are clear and in good condition.

oneyedmason · 05-17-2009, 17:13

Quote:

Originally Posted by 360ci

If the engine jolted forward substantially, it could be a motor AND transmission mount, depending on the miles. If the vehicle has lower miles and the engine is jerking around when you place the transmission in gear, I'd stay away. The high idle is most likely due to a dirty TB, or some sensors, such as IAC (idle air control valve), and possibly the TPS (throttle position sensor), both of which can affect idle. If the idle stays around 900rpms after you've driven the vehicle for a while then I wouldn't worry too much about that. My Taurus 3.0L V6 idles around 650-750rpm, but the bottom 500rpm on my tach is shortened, so hard to get an accurate number.

If you haven't already, be sure to ask for previous maintenance records, as this will be a good indication that the owner has taken care of the vehicle. If all the records he/she gives you are for oil changes, ask about other items such as transmission service, coolant changes, brake fluid flush and tune ups. Alas, make sure ALL fluids are clear and in good condition.

Thanks stayed away from that one bought a 2002 Escape in much better condition in all aspects. Thanks once again.

**360ci** · 05-17-2009, 18:00

Congrats on the purchase!