2010 Ford Escape lift gate hinges rotted off

4,440

Asked by Bratts Jul 18, 2013 at 11:08 AM about the 2010 Ford Escape XLT AWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Has anyone seen this? The hinges that hold the glass in the rear lift gate have
basically corroded into a powder and snapped. Ford of Canada will not cover it because
it's not being recalled. In fact, they said they have never heard of it before. I've
researched the issue on-line and can't find where it's happened to anyone else

Bratts

179 Answers

57,865

Ok. So are you looking for a good glass shop?

8 people found this helpful.
4,440

Hi Tracy, The work I can do myself. I'm just looking for answers Bratts

4 people found this helpful.
57,865

I haven't seen this failure in our County fleet either. We have about 30 of them. Sounds like something corrosive got on there - it's just pot-metal. Maybe Ford had a bad batch from their supplier of hinges. Hard to say. Don't expect any help from the manufacturer - they're in business to sell parts.

1 people found this helpful.
480

I have the same problem with my 2010. They haven't snapped yet but the corrosion from them running down the glass is making a big mess. I can't understand why Ford hasn't recalled these as I have noticed the same problem on many Escapes in my area. Granted the road salt in Michigan is likely the cause it should have been something they considered when designing it for sale to the northern states.

30 people found this helpful.
700

2010 escape with the same problem. Ford said "not our problem". 5 year/unlimited mileage corrosion warranty must mean something else at ford.

13 people found this helpful.
160

Just had the same problem on an '10. Driving down the highway and it almost flew off...just hanging by one hinge and the strut. When I went to the dealer, service said, there is no recall, parts said..."we've never heard of this happening before"...but they also added.."but we have sold a lot of hinges". I guess if you tell everyone that complains that they are the "only one"...then they will all go away and things will be swept under the rug. The fact that they had a recall on this, dated back to 2002 and they continue installing exactly the same part...means they just don't give a s**t.

16 people found this helpful.
700

Did the work myself, it was not a hard job. There is a good video on youtube. If you live in Canada buy your parts at Mazda not Ford... Exact same part $96 + tax, not Fords $165 + tax.

57 people found this helpful.
430

I have the same problem with my 2009 Escape. And, Ford Canada does not recognize this as a problem. With mine, the dealership cannot get the little post on the hinge out of the window so I will have to pay for a new window as well as the hinge. Total cost is over $851.00!!!!

10 people found this helpful.
430

TMB2 - I don't think is has anything to do with road salt as only one hinge seems to have the problem on any vehicles I have seen. I have noticed this problem on approximately 20 or 30 Escapes in the past 3 or 4 months. They are all 2009's and 2010's - as far as I can tell.

16 people found this helpful.
480

A info for ford, we recently had some rear end body work done on our 10. I asked the body shop about the corrosive hinge problem and was told it is a very common problem with escapes. He further stated that whenever they need to replace the glass in the rear hatch on these vehicles, more times than not, they have to replace the hinges that fall apart when they try to remove them. And ford continues to say its not a common problem!

18 people found this helpful.
430

Has anyone noticed how Ford has overcome this back window/hinge problem? They now make the Escape with a back window that does not open! How clever! Now why did they do that -hmmmmm?

9 people found this helpful.
90

For your info I have the same problem with liftgate hinges. It is such a extended problems that even most scrapward cannot keep up the demands for those hinges. They are like santa Claus you think it exist but cannot find it. Other problem that I have encounters with liftgate is the defrost pattern quitting on me. I have 2 Ford Escape (bothe 2009) and the defrost worked only on 2 lines in the middle, was able to pass under warranty (58,000 km). But 2 years later both my Escape has the same problem, so twice for one of them. Must be a lot of poeple out there with same problem. It is a safety issue in the winter.

9 people found this helpful.
190

My one back window hinge just broke in half. Here in Canada they cost $160 each hinge!! Ford should issue a recall due to the amount of Escapes dealing with this problem. Funny in 2012 they changed he problem!!!

19 people found this helpful.
160

Mine just went on the rt side on my 2010 ford escape. Ford should recall this part.

16 people found this helpful.
50

2009 Mariner - left rear hinge disintegrated; right one is not far from failing. Cheapest price found for 2 replacements so far: $190.

5 people found this helpful.
90

Both hinges on my rear hatch window are rotting off my 2010 escape.I'm not happy about this....

9 people found this helpful.
110

I had this happen on my 2010 Escape and Ford replaced the hinges under my extended warranty to my dealers surprise.

6 people found this helpful.
110

It is definitely a corrosion problem. My dealer advised Ford is reporting problems in states that use road salt. Were I live streets are white in the winter and it was from the road salt not from snow. Can't entirely place the fault with Ford were I live. The cheap state NY destroys the taxpayers cars as they wont use the a non corrosive alternative like they use in your Europe that works better.

5 people found this helpful.
360

I replaced one hinge about a year ago and now I have to replace the other side. I don't think it is an isolated problem.

9 people found this helpful.
360

Has anyone had a problem with the rear tire wells rusting in same spot on each side? Here in Ohio I have seen on several Ford Escapes rusting in the exact some spots as mine.

23 people found this helpful.
120

I just had my hinge rot in half today, looks like about 60.00 for a new hinge. I had to drill out the old Allen screw with a 1/4" bit because of the corrosion. And yes to the other question on the rear wheel well, but Ford replaced that area 2 months before my 2009 warranty ran out. The passenger side wheel well was totally rusted through. More bad metal. Next problem is brake rotors warp easily. Lucky if you get 15,000 miles out of them.

11 people found this helpful.
30

I have a 12 escape and the hinge has been looking corroded recently so I planned on getting them replaced. Well before I could I went to open the window tonight and it snapped and crumbled in my hand. So right now it's held on by one hinge. I called the dealer and even tho I purchased the extended warranty it's not covered. It's wear and tear apparently! Oh and the service tech asked if I had duck tape to hold it until they could get to fix it. Ummm no you can fix it tomorow!

3 people found this helpful.
535

I discovered the same failure on my 2002 Ford Escape yesterday. The price quoted by the dealer to replace both lift gate hinges is 2x$120 (parts) + $90 (labour) + $42.90 (HST) = $372.90. The bolt on the right side hinge sheared flush to the glass. I managed to push the glass up into place as a temporary measure. See photo. I purchased the vehicle t 1/2 years ago and am not sure if this is an original hinge.

3 people found this helpful.
120

The price sounds about right, I ended up paying 90.00 per hinge. The newer the vehicle the more they wanted for the hinge.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBitLBx5_RU I found the above YouTube video showing replacement of lift gate hinges.

9 people found this helpful.
60

I have the same problem on my 2008 Ford Escape. I noticed the left hinge had a small crack 2 weeks ago and today both of them look like they're gonna fall! Salt on roads (note: today is June 29)? Yes we live in Canada! If Ford can't build cars that can handle our winters, they just shouldn't sell them here! Now, I have to drive 120km to the nearest dealer, will my window hold on? Let's hope nobody gets hurt in the process...

6 people found this helpful.
20

This just happened to my 2009 Ford Escape!! Has there been any recalls for this?

2 people found this helpful.
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Hi Patti There are no recalls. I phoned Ford Canada Customer Service a number of moths ago and was informed that they don't perceive this as a problem as there have no records that there is a problem! CS manager advised me if they get enough complaints they will look into this and possibly issue a recall. So, if anyone has had a problem I would suggest you phone Ford's head office (Canada or U.S.) and complain loudly & long!

8 people found this helpful.
80

I purchased a Ford Escape 2010 14 months ago, and the hinges are bleeding white gunk down the back window. When I bought the car only two lines worked on the defrost. The dealership marked where the breaks were with green tape, and they coincided with the white river running down from the hinge. Total cost....$800 for the window, and $500 for the hinges, that is Canadian dollars with tax. I think it is time Ford did a recall, and replaced the damaged windows as well as the hinges.

7 people found this helpful.
30

I have 2009 the drivers side just disintegrated and the passenger is starting too. Getting fixed today and it will be over $300 ridiculous.

3 people found this helpful.
70

taken my 2009 escape in next week 400.00 to replace both hinges this is just wrong notice new escapes have solved the problem and they no longer exist but we pay the price

5 people found this helpful.
20

Just noticed this on my 10'. Was cleaning the glass and there was this white streak going down the passenger side of the glass. So now I'm checking junk yards to see if they have the hinges. No fricking way am I paying over $100 for this!!

2 people found this helpful.
110

happened to me today. I bought my 2009 escape new. was not too concerned til I looked up the replacement cost even me doing the labor 40 year ford owner and I bought at least 10 new ones.This thing really disappoints me and questions my loyalty

4 people found this helpful.
70

same here I agree 400 with labour , they changed and do not have them on new escapes must have relaized they were garbadge

2 people found this helpful.
100

Anyone know if the mazda tribute rear hinge will work on a ford escape rear hinge? Mazda hinge is half the price!!!

10 people found this helpful.
50

Hey i have a 2008 and both of my hinges have rotted off and they are hard to come by without spending a small fortune there really outta be a recall

5 people found this helpful.
60

The right hang side hinge has completely rotted in two and the left is well on its way. I am having them both replaced tomorrow at the cost of $160/hinge plus labour. I will be writing to Ford to complain and encourage others to do the same.

6 people found this helpful.
40

This happened to my 2012 yesterday, on the driver side. It seems the pneumatic strut seized open, and it must have put pressure on the hinge. I just noticed white powdery stuff where the hinge broke.

4 people found this helpful.
30

This started happening to my 2010 Mercury Mariner so I was watching for other escapes, etc. Must have seen hundreds in a week. This is a COMMON problem.

3 people found this helpful.
50

We are bringing our 2009 Escape in for the replacement of both hinges. One of them litterally disintegrated and the other one is getting there. We called a number of scrap yards for parts and all of them told us not to waste our time and buy new parts as a lot of people are having the same problem. Total cost of repair $450.00 So Ford doesn't care about this abnormal problem and we don't care about Ford anymore. We, a family member with the same issue, and friends will not consider Ford in the future.

5 people found this helpful.
10

My 2008 mercury mariner has done the same but booth hinges disintegrated to a powder and now to learn they aren't interchangeable with any other type the only ones I find are 115 bucks a piece

1 people found this helpful.
70

GRAVRON, I just had the same thing happen to my 2002 Escape this week. On closer inspection I noted that only the bolt had disintegrated, the hinge was okay and still had good thread in it for the bolt. So I went to the hardware store and bought a pkg of three M6 X 1.00 X 12mm pan head, phillips head bolts for 67 cents! Works great !! OEM bolt is M6 X 1.00 X 10mm but you will probably need to add a washer to duplicate the OEMs hugh pan head. Hope this is useful to those whose hinges are still good but the bolts are not. My car is in VA so road salt corrosion is not much of a problem. BTW my hinges look the same as what you pictured so they are original (OEM) hinges.

7 people found this helpful.
30

Just happened to my 2002 Ford Escape. Of course when I called Ford of Stamford, CT. to ask about it, they wouldn't quote me any numbers whatsoever, eventhough I think they're pretty familiar with the problem which I described very clearly. I need to go in for a $179 diagnostic appointment first. Too bad for them, I was thinking about buying an Edge there this week, but that's not happening now.

1 people found this helpful.
30

My 2010 Escape rear hinges are corroding as well as about 7 out of 10 other Escapes I pass. I have also noticed a few Mazda Tributes. The price the dealer gave was over $800.00. No recall insight.

3 people found this helpful.
110

I solved the problem by buying a new Jeep. First new car other than a Ford in my 50 years of driving

7 people found this helpful.
120

Shouldn't be over 400.00 which is high. Take it somewhere else, the dealer will just rip you off even more. Worst case it takes an hour per hinge.

30

Same shit here in Québec Ford Escape 2009 with two rotten Hinge!

3 people found this helpful.

Mine just crumbled and broke off on my 2010 Escape on Christmas Eve. Then the dealer wants $150+taxes each just for the parts. Thanks Ford!!!!

30

I ended up getting just the broken one fixed. I went to a mechaninc down the road, not Ford. They got a new one (I believe it was from Ford) and installed it all for a TOTAL of $140. This is $40 less than just the diagnostic consultation would have cost me at the dealership.

2 people found this helpful.
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Would anyone know if the hinges from the 2001- 2007 model would fit on a 2009 escape? It seems like they are a little cheaper! If not, any website you suggest to buy the parts for the 09!? Thanks

3 people found this helpful.
50

2008 Ford Escape and our hinges have rotted away also. The original ones were broken and back window shattered when closed normally. The replacement window is OK but hinges turned white and fell apart . window is now duct taped in place.

5 people found this helpful.
100

Exactly the same problem with my 2011 Escape. Ford must think everyone who has had this problem is an idiot and will believe the b.s. the dealership gives us "we haven't had any complaints". They are the idiots though, I will never buy another Ford again. If they had anyone with brains in management they would realize that saving maybe $100 to fix problem vs. losing future sales and buying themselves negative goodwill is a smarter idea. Guess they are too stupid to do the math.

10 people found this helpful.
20

Same problem with 2008 Escape. It IS a big problem yet Ford denies it - yet they never have them in stock. Has anyone bought the OEM parts online? Looks like they may be cheaper than a dealership. Just never sure what you will get when you order online!

2 people found this helpful.
30

I had this same problem with my 2008 escape. I did a little research and there actually was a recall for the 2002 model. I have contacted ford multiple times and no one can give me a straight answer. I have been contacting them for a year now. they said there isn't a recall on the hinges for any other model because they assumed the problem was corrected after the recall in 2002. I questioned that maybe my car was fitted with the faulty hinges and they still have not got back to me. They said that they would be happy to record my complaint and to keep my receipts if there ever is a recall.

3 people found this helpful.
50

Mine just broke off of my 2009 escape! It must be a problem! At $80-$103 to replace is ridiculous ! I will be calling Ford!

5 people found this helpful.
60

Ford won't do anything about it!! I've tried so hard, lol. They said its the first they've heard of the problem and in order to do a recall they have to have alot of complaints on the issue. (which they must not be keeping track of, because i have read about tons of people complaining to Ford) I have an '08 and my left one dissenegrated when i was closing my hatch and thank gosh i caught my window before it swung down. It's ridiculous, Ford really needs to take care of this problem. I've had all Ford's in my 15 years of driving and i will never buy another one. EVER.

3 people found this helpful.
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1-800-392-3673 is the phone number. Maybe if everybody called and bugged the crap out of them about it, they might do something. I know I've called atleast three times already and called them out on their b.s. excuse of "we haven't heard of this problem before".

3 people found this helpful.
10

This happened Tony 2010 Ford Escape. What should have been an easy job but the hinge was so deteriorated my husband didn't have anything to hold onto to switch it out. The person at the auto yard said they cant keep them in stock. The dealership told us they had to backorder due to excessive replacement of these hinges. So, I would say Ford has heard of this issue. There should have been a recall!!!

1 people found this helpful.
30

Perhaps a letter or phone call from a class action lawyer might help Ford to the table,they know this is a problem and are just hoping it goes away !

3 people found this helpful.
40

Happened to me on Sunday, May 15, 2016; 2005 Escape. Nearly knocked me out. I popped the lock to the glass, went to open glass door and damn thing fell; both hinges came off. Screws are corroded. Got quoted a price of close to $400, from the dealer, which is way more than the cost of the glass. Might have to call my State Attorney General's office and file a complaint. Had no idea that this was a huge problem. I thought this was an isolated case.

4 people found this helpful.
50

I CALLED FORD HEAD OFFICE AND THEY HAD THE NERVE TO TELL ME NO ONE ELSE COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS PROBLEM i MEET A MAN AT THE SERVICE STATION AND HE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM HE SAID HE CALL FORD AND THEY TOLD HIM THE SAME THING NO ONE HAS EVER CALLED IN....I AM SO PISSED I HAVE A 2010 FORD ESCAPE AND ITS JUST A MATTER OF TIME FOR THIS TO FALL OFF I AM SO UPSET THEY SHOULD RECALL THIS PROBLEM I LOOK ON THE HIGH AND I CAN TELL THIS SAME YEAR 2010 ALL HAS THIS PROBLEM ...WE ALL SHOULD GET TOGETHER AND HAVE THEM RECALL THIS ASAP.

5 people found this helpful.
40

I m in Canada and the same problem happened to my 2010 tribute. We should to push mazada/ford for a recall on it. It is a very common quality problem to tribute/escape and the manufacturer should take care of it, not the consumers!

4 people found this helpful.
20

I live in Mason Michigan. I have a 2010 Ford Escape with the rear window hinges severely corroded and stains running down the glass. I approached the service department at Fowlerville Ford with this problem. They also claimed that they were not familiar with this problem. My wheel covers are also badly deteriorated.

2 people found this helpful.
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SAME THING JUST HAPPENED TO ME... Both look awful but one just snapped and I was out of town, so had to duct tape it together...tryng to find the part to replace. will try to find two as the other one is just about falling off...WHY WONT FORD REPLACE, IT'S A DESIGN FAULT...

2 people found this helpful.

I have a 08 ford escape had the same problem. The lift gate hinges aren't cheap.I have to replace both. I have to have the 2008 hinges. .

10

same as my 2011 escape. we thought it was about the weather or the chemicals in car wshing. i dont know as to where i can buy

1 people found this helpful.
10

Happened on my 2008 a year ago. Was told the salt on our Chicago roads do this. Realize it's just another lie. Just had to spend $450 to fix another common problem--bad ignition switch. Also had to get power steering fixed ( that one was finally a recall), and $1500 for my a/c last summer. Never will own another Ford.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Yea mine also broke the screw broke right into there needs to be a recall on that bc u could be driving down the road and fall out on u.

1 people found this helpful.
110

05 escape, just happened to me. bolt holding hinge to glass corroded and came out. I fixed myself using parts bought at home depot. Total cost of fix $3.41. i did not take hydraulic lift arm for widow off. I opened tailgate, removed old bolt etc. drilled a hole trough lower hinge part, replaced with parts I bought. parts you'll need for each side(L&R) are: an m6-1.0x30mm pan head machine screw, m6-1.0 hex nut, 5/16" metal washer, (2) 3/16" neoprene washers, AJB 3/16 metal fender washer, and a 1/4"x1-1/4" neoprene rubber fender washer.

9 people found this helpful.
110

if you look up the actual bolt needed, it gives you the size but seeing that i went all the way through, i used a longer bolt

2 people found this helpful.
40

Driving on busy Interstate last night, 4yo in back seat, car seat of course. Loud noise, wind blowing throughout vehilce. 2008 Ford Escape, liftgate window fell out. The driver side hinge corroded. Actally broke in half, while driving. I noticed the corrosion 2 wks ago, but liftgate window still intact. Ordered replacement part, 2 days ago, but too late. Definitely a SAFETY ISSUE. Luckily vehicles behind me, where far enough behind, the avoided the glass shattered as it hit the pavement.

4 people found this helpful.
30

Happened to my 2008 Ford Escape yesterday! Was able to find both left and right replacements at an autowrecker, and have been trying to install but I can't get the old bolts off the glass - both bolts are stripped!

3 people found this helpful.
20

2009 Escape in central NY -both hinges rotting out. Driver side far worse. Scraped and cleared out pot metal that was turning to paste and repaired with JBWeld @4mos ago. Starting to degrade again, so need to replace. Hinges made from substandard material and should be recalled. If doors were falling off for same reason there would be a recall!

2 people found this helpful.
10

2003 Escape just purchased. Opened back window & the right window hinge broke & the right side of the window hung down. We were able to push the glass back up and we got it to lock back in place for now. Until we can get the latch repaired. Thanks for the info. I will be calling Ford.

1 people found this helpful.
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2010 FORD ESCAPE Same story here almost lost my glass when I lifted and hinges both broke. Should most definitely be a recall, every escape from same era I see on the road in my area has the same deterioration and white streaks on glass. Ontario Canada.

2 people found this helpful.
10

2009 Mercury Mariner Premire just happened to me as well. It just eroded out of no where and shattered when I shut my rear lift gate. Luckily caught the window. Should absolutely be a recall.

1 people found this helpful.
20

2011 For Escape and mine are corroding now too! Where is the recall on these!?!

2 people found this helpful.
90

My 2012 Escape had the same problem. Left liftgate glass hinge broke in two. Right hinge in bad shape and the only thing holding the widow in place. I called the dealer in Cleveland and they said $400 for parts/labor. I bought the hinges from the dealer ($125 apiece)and installed myself...great video I'll include here. It was pretty easy, but you need a torque wrench(Harbour Freight $21), an 11mm deep socket, and a T30 star head. The torque rating is 97 in/lbs....this is crucial so you don't break the glass. I called Ford customer service and talked to Fernando who was indifferent about the whole thing. He said(like the dealer)unless a recall happens, save your receipt and Ford will reimberse you. Lets get a class action lawsuit going. This is a safety issue. I plan on writing Ford and my Attorney general...Ford sucks...here's the link...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBitLBx5_RU

7 people found this helpful.
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No recall unless there are enough formal complaints made directly to Ford ! Calling your lawyer or the attorney general won't help!

1 people found this helpful.

My right side hinge broke today thank God in my driveway call my local Ford dealership they want $114 for one hinge I told the parts manager that would not work for me holding the window In place now with a ratchet strap do not want to see it come off and hurt someone it would be a shame if it did come off and someone got hurt maybe Ford would do something about it then. Until then I guess I'm going to be shopping for two new hinges.

10

I have a 2010 FORD Escape. This just happened to me in a parking lot today as I went to put my groceries in. Clearly this should have been a recall after reading so many Escapes have the same problem. Bought 2 clips and did them both as the one on the right would have to be done shortly anyway. Paid $153 for both parts and did it myself. Quite simple actually. Took about an hour.

1 people found this helpful.
10

i have the same problem the rear window hinge rotted out the other one is on its way out, and the wiper blade motor died. 2010 Ford Escape. Called the customer service hotline got told yes the vehicle year is under warranty but because there is over 110kms on it im SOL. Got to say that it made my decision to by another Ford very easy. I can understand if it was part of the engine that went but something that is 6 years old should not burn out like the motor on the rear wiper, or rot out line the back hinges both those things can go by just sitting in the driveway

50

I am so pissed off I see so much Ford Escape on the Hwy and I can't imagine they would not recall this problem. They are waiting on the window to fall off and injure someone and then it's going to be major problems. I call every year and ask mine is getting really bad and in Canada either the cold weather I'm so sared it's going to fall out on the highway. I was quoted 300 for one side I cannot afford it so I would wait hopefully it don't hurt anyone let's keep the messages coming

10

My hinge is gone its being held on with wire. I think this is BS I walked into the Ford Dealership and when I talked to the guy at the counter he said that one of the service area employees has a 2012 and already had to replace his. I felt like saying that’s nice he doesn’t have to pay the same amount that I have to pay he friggin works here so him replacing it most likely only cost him about 15 bucks and an hours worth of his time when he was on lunch and breaks. It doesn’t even have anything to do with the money it’s the principal of the fact that they are hiding behind the number of kilometers on the vehicle to determine the warranty. I’m sorry the number of kilometers does not have any bearing on how old the body of the vehicle is and how old the parts that are attached to it are. I can understand if it was something to do with the drive train transmission ect but no this is a hinge that is attached to a body of a 6 year old vehicle or 7 if you want to get technical that the vehicle was released in mid 2009. I am also having the same issue with the motor for my rear wiper that has gone as well again its not part of the engine transmission or anything it’s a 6 year old part it shouldn’t have died either.

50

We have to do something about it we can write and write and nothing g is going to be done we all have to send individual letter to ford this is dangerous we are. Ring proactive but they are not. Hopefully no body gets hurt while driving

10

Well just got off the phone with the ford company of Canada in regards to the back hatch window hinge corroding and degrading and being a safety issue. I live in Canada and I know there are a lot of places in the states with the same issue I mean the last time I checked snow, ice and salt and plastic do not mix so putting plastic on a vehicle they should know that this should or could happen. I was told that there was nothing that can be done at this time. He told me that when I go out and get it fixed to hold onto the receipt and if they ever get enough complaints to warrant putting out a recall that they might reimburse me for the cost of replacement and install. So apparently there are not enough “known complaints” other then the thousands I have noticed online from people across Canada and the US that have all said the same thing. I m sure I’m not the only one that has called about this even though they are making it sound like I am the first one that has ever complained.

1 people found this helpful.

my ford 2009 escape has the same problem. the first connector that failed was for the wiper about 4 months ago, about 30 days ago the passenger side hinge failed and the driver side is close to failing. Ford's refusal to recall will make the responsible for punitive damages if the glass falls out while the vehicle is being driven and causes an accident to another vehicle, lou.

Just a suggestion but if it is possible to paint the metal hinge part in epoxy paint you might get the hinges to last longer. If the bolts are a problem then replace them with stainless steel.

90

I contacted Ford and got the same answer as above...hold on to your receipt...I bought the hinges from the dealership and installed myself...there is a good youtube vid out there...I had to buy a torque wrench at harbor freight, but the install was not that bad...all you commenters here contact Ford and file a complaint...you can do it over the phone...

2 people found this helpful.
10

I own 2003 Escape, daughter owns 2001, mother-in-law owns 2008. I have replaced both hinges on all 3 escapes. My daughters glass fell out while driving and my mother-in-laws one hinge broke. Called dealer wanted $160 a hinge and told me the same thing never heard of this problem yet ordered 6 hinges over the last 10 months. Ford pull your head out of your third point of contact and recall this.

1 people found this helpful.
20

I made these for a Mazda, I just got a Ford come in yesterday with the same problem. I charged $200.00 CND for the set. I figured that was a pretty fair price considering they only take a hour to make them. I made them out of T6061. I reused the hinge pin and the bolts.

2 people found this helpful.
20

This is a common problem with not only Ford or Mazda. Any vehicle with rear glass hinges tend to have the same issue. I've worked for Ford, GMC and KIA Motors. All of which had the same issue. Best and only way avoid this is to keep the hinges clean by regularly rinsing them out. Hope this helps. Cheers!

2 people found this helpful.
535

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBitLBx5_RU. --- The preceding URL provides a video showing how to change the hinges. The first time I posted this URL it was concatenated with the text that preceded. Copy and paste the URL into your browser to view the YouTube Video.

1 people found this helpful.

OK.....I HAVE A 2012 ESCAPE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AND I WAS TOLD $410 plus tax. FORD NEEDS TO OPEN THEIR EYES AND TAKE ACTION. THIS IS A SAFETY PROBLEM!!! DO WE HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL SOMEONE GETS INJURED???

I had my hinge completely snap off my 2009 escape and window was hanging by one hinge. Luckily this happened while I was putting items in the trunk. Now I have duct tape until I figure out where to go a replace it. It'll not be at FORD. This is ridiculous!!!!

Yes, this happened to me last summer. Glass fell out and luckily did not break. Unfortunately, when fixed, the mechanic and glass fitter were unable to re-attach the rear defog. Unless I replace the whole window and not just the hinges, I have no rear defog.

10

2011 Escape here... left hinge corroded away to nothing and just snapped, window hanging by one hinge. Sounds like I'm on my own.

1 people found this helpful.

Have the same problem on my 2010. Both hinges broke in half and because they are pot metal they cannot be welded, We did a temporary fix with gorilla glue which lasted for 4 months and now we have glued them again. Are looking for a scrap yard or an on-line source for replacement hinges ( Fords prices are " RIDICULOUS " ) Any help appreciated ... reply to cidrni2002@yahoo.com

My 2010 is doing the same thing. Right side completely corroded off, left side starting to. Cracked all around! Right rear wheel well starting to get rust. I'm so unhappy about all of this...

Same with our 2008 escape. Dealer quoted $380 part + labor to replace one hinge that's about to drop the window?! AND if they happen to break the window in the process, we'll have to pay for that too?! Come on ford!

10

Add me to the list, 2010 Ford Escape, both rear window hinges just crumbled and disintegrated. When you call Ford to complain make sure you have your VIN number handy, please call 1-800-392- 3673 and have them register your complaint. They will not give you any information on previous complaints.

1 people found this helpful.
10

I have a 2012 with only 112,000 km and both hinges are corroded and one is actually broken. I wont mention the rear arch, tailgate and hood rust problems on my winter garaged Ford. The rust rate is shocking and unacceptable, Ford made tough? Not any more they dont.

1 people found this helpful.

yep, just happened yesterday, piece of crap card will never own another one with all of the issues I have had

20

All escape owners have to call Ford and complain. Strength in numbers. I know I will.

2 people found this helpful.
10

Same thing happened to my 2009 Escape. Can't believe Ford won't doing anything. Does the back window have to fall off and kill someone.

1 people found this helpful.

we have 2 ford escape one brand new & the other 2011 we were in usa on vacatoin when my back window fell i had to replace both hinges. my wifes car we are replacing the left side, so many prblems with my car , & i will never buy another ford again. Tony Pereira Barrie Ontario Canada.

Yep 2012 just had it detailed and corrosion from the latches are embedded in the glass going to try a web sand paper to try and clean the glass and start looking for new hinges before they snap

Just had this happen to my 2008 Ford Escape. The left one fell apart and the other is on its way.. just like powder.

10

This is on my 2011, not quite corroded through yet but it is getting there. (Canadian)

1 people found this helpful.
10

Mine is a 2011, just snapped off in the parking lot and may have broke my finger trying to catch my damn window.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Mine is 2011 also.. Happened to me this weekend too!! So not impressed..

1 people found this helpful.
10

My daughter has a 2009 Escape. Both hinges are totally corroded so she won't be opening the window portion until they're fixed. I just ordered a pair off of Amazon for $179. I sure hope they work. Now to figure out how to get the corrosion stains off her window. She also has that stupid rusting happening on the rear wheel area. That's going to the body shop next week to get fixed, sealed and rock guards put on. Hopefully that'll help for a few years until she's finished school and can afford to trade it in.

1 people found this helpful.

Same thing happened with my 2010 mariner. One snapped while I was closing the glass and the other looks about ready to go.

10

Had my right side hinge corrode and break on my 2008 Escape and also my right side wheel well and tailgate rust after 5 years ( I bought car brand new in 11/07 - with rust protection). Thank God for colored duck tape. I'm buying Nissan or Toyota next week.

1 people found this helpful.
30

i have a2010 ford escape .right hinge broke 3 days ago .it had white stuff running down off the hinge .I got on e-bay .got the pair for 47.00 with free shipping .I put them in myself.they are after markets .they are just as good.easy to put in. save your money.buy them on e-bay.

3 people found this helpful.

It happened to me, 2010 escape yesterday. I am going to refer ford to this site! Scared the life out of me, thank God for the pistons that control the glass otherwise I would have had a broken hand!

10

Add me to the list. 2010 Escape liftgate hinge failure. I'll call the number posted above to add my voice to the many others. We're also very fortunate nobody got hurt when it broke at 55mph! Tom - Canandaigua, NY

1 people found this helpful.

Happened to me this week. Bought some replacements off eBay. Going to try and get it fixed this weekend.

20

It is very common on the older models. The aluminum used is chinese crap. Mazda had same issue and did a recall and replaced hinges no charge. Ford obviously does not feel the least bit pressured to follow suit unless I don't know someone dies from it.

2 people found this helpful.
10

Everyone file a complaint https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/ Just happened to me while driving. Lucky I did not injury folks traveling behind me. Shame on Ford.

1 people found this helpful.
160

My impression is that for Ford it would amount to the same as the Pinto scandal. It became a numbers thing. Cheaper to pay out a few lawsuits for owner's deaths, than it was to retrofit the cars so they wouldn't explode. See https://users.wfu.edu/palmitar/Law&Valuation/Papers/1999/Leggett-pinto.html

20

I have a 2010 ford escape. This just happened to me. Can't catch a break with this vehicle. Just paid over $500 for the ignition key replacement. Im looking to buy the replacement parts for the liftgate hinges from eBay. How do I know I'm buying the correct parts?

2 people found this helpful.
40

Check out Dorman 924-123, these are the knock off hinges lifetime warranty. A lot cheaper than Ford. They will list the Ford OEM #'s that you can use for other hinges on Amazon & Ebay. My set will arrive tomorrow $94.00 for the pair with 3 year warranty. 2011 Escape XLT. The problem is white metal hinge and a steel screw, designed to corrode. Then add tons of salt air in Nova Scotia and watch them fail...

4 people found this helpful.
10

-- Cars are disposable by design .... 100,000 miles or Ten years is the goal. Unfortunately engineers can't quite hit the target, thus some parts fail to quickly and others last to long. Ford Escape are like big go-carts. They handle well and are safe under distress conditions. They drive trains usually last 200k plus, if the fluids are changed properly. I would give them a 9 out of 10 points. Signed, Mechanic.

1 people found this helpful.
10

This Just happened to mine a few days ago and I can't afford to pay for any $850.00 Bill. I a paying $316.00 a Month for the car payment.

1 people found this helpful.
10

2010 Escape. 2 hinges = CAD 400. I also purchased a weatherstripping for the glass lift gate = CAD 250. When I have the $ I will purchase the weatherstripping for the lift gate proper. These are original Ford parts from the local dealership. My thinking is that the reduction in cabin noise is worth the expense. Plus water leaks will play havoc with the rear wiper motor and cause a general rust problem. Pay now or pay later. Fortunately the defrost is 100%.

1 people found this helpful.
10

Ford has to be the biggest bullshit company ever. I've had NOTHING but problems with my escape since I purchased it including the hinges rotting out. Mind you the probably the cheapest repair I've made to the shit. My computer blew at 100thousand km. Which cost thousands of dollars to repair. Only for the fucks to tell me that the computer couldn't be programmed correctly until I bought a 2nd key (another $500 on-top of the thousands for the new computer) so not my locks flick on and off casually whenever the fuck they want andy smart four-wheel drive no longer works. Sum it up I hate Ford. You really will be Found On Road Dead cuz they don't give a shit about the product they sell or heir customer service

1 people found this helpful.
30

This happened to our 2010 escape, popped the hatch with the key fob, and half of the glass slid down the back. I bought replacement hinges on ebay for 36.00, they worked perfectly. However removing the old hinges posed a difficult task. The water had gotten down the bolts and corroded the inside of the hex head as well. This is was burned up my sons rear defrost a month before I am guessing, water from those bolt heads. We ended up having to use a grinder to remove the bolts as they were completely seized. It was not fun, but at the least the replacements were inexpensive. The wiper motor also stopped working in the hatch, possible short out as well? not sure.

2 people found this helpful.
10

Just had the same problem today, 2012 Ford Escape. Two hinges cracked. I’m pissed off, this was my first bran NEW car and one year after RUST, Ford will take care of it only if it’s perforated. Now this!! My first Ford and my LAST!! Quebec Canada

1 people found this helpful.

Same thing to my 2009 Ford Escape. Took it yesterday to be detailed and when picking it up, they said that both hinges fell off and almost lost the window. Now it is duct taped on until I can get it fixed Friday. Hopefully it won't fall off.

I have a 2008 Ford Escape & I am having the Exact same issue with mine. The driver side hinge has completely eroded. This appears to be an issue with the Escapes & the Explorers. I say this because my girlfriend has an Explorer & she is having the same issue. You Are Not Alone!

Had the same issue with my 2012 escape. My driver side snapped in half, crumbled into a powder. Happened while I was in the parking lot.

20

My 2010 Escape too. Popped open the glass and it fell into my hands!! the driver's side kept it from hitting the ground. It took some wiggling to reposition it and then tape to hold it in place until I can get the part replaced. It should be recalled. It crumbled like powder. I hope it's not too expensive.

2 people found this helpful.
20

My passenger side hinge broke today, 2012 Escape. The drivers side isn’t far behind. Add it to the long list of replacement parts. $800 ECM, rotted out quarters I had fixed, 2x rear wiper motor, and a electronic throttle body. I did all the work myself, I can’t even imagine how much it would have cost at a dealership. These are all common problems, there’s lots of vids online on how to do the work. This was my first brand new car. I can honestly say I will never buy a Ford again.

2 people found this helpful.

PS: 2008 Ford Escape! Same. Same! Same! Defective parts! Are defective parts!

2006 escape , just the bolt has rotted out on the passenger side hinge . Ford wants $220 to replace a bolt , I said no thanks went to parts but they will have to order the screw for $6 . My question is how can they fix it for $220 if they don't even have the part in stock ? I'm pulling a few from the junkyard , calling it a day . While waiting for a oil change I went to look at the raptors , brand new 72k and they come with rust on the drivetrain . Seems like all domestic vehicles are rust buckets , definitly my last ford product

20

Same! 2006 Escape, driver side bolt on liftgate hinge corroded and sheared. On a ferry getting stroller for 1 year old out of rear liftgate when glass dropped into my hand. “Fixed” with ratchet strap and duct tape for remainder of our family vacation. Amazon replacement parts on order for under $50. 4 bolts to remove and replace shouldn’t take 15 minutes with a proper torque wrench. Great videos on YouTube for how-to DIY.

My sister & I both have 2008 Escapes - one of mine broke when my wife closed the door, and the other is severely cracked. My sister's are both showing signs of corrosion, and maybe cracks as well. We live in Canada, but I don't think that's the issue - I think it's just a terrible design, or possibly caused by having the screw and hinge made of two different (reactive) metals.

Mine Too! Everyone is saying how easy it is to replace but I cant get the old hinge off. Please, any ideas??

20

All posts above are true. Mine Ford Escape 2009 XLT does have the same problem and I have to watch hinges crumbling down. We should get Ford read the post but probably they are busy making another bad car. I would fix my rear window hinges but the bottom of the fifth door is badly corroded. Actually purchased brand new Ford rusted started rusting after 6 months the driver step door, rear fenders and the fifth door. Paid for professional dealer ship paintings that never lasted. I can keep complaining but the car was really useful and the whole family/friends liked the car. The care engine never failed or stalled after thousand and thousand of kms. The car has been maintained at the professional five star dealership. This issues with the rear window hinges is a safety issue and not good for Ford turning blind eye on all these reports and insulting customers with 400 dollars and more repairs.

1 people found this helpful.

Obviously a very common problem. Just bought a pair of hinges from Advanced Auto Parts...$85.00. Plan on doing the work this weekend, before the window flies off! 2010 Ford Escape that lived most of it's life in Michigan. Moved to Tennessee and haven't seen one with the same problem as of yet.

Same thing happened to mine today just away ford can make more money way to many problems with my escape it will be the last ford I ever buy

This has just happened to me! My mechanic(trusted) said I needed the whole new back window since the bolts are in the window. $800+ grrr... Has anyone successfully replaced the hinges?

20

Patty, See my response above. The replacement parts from Amazon worked perfectly for a fix under $50. I would challenge your mechanic's thoughts on replacing entire rear window. As long as the window isn't cracked or broken in any way, the window glass has a hole in it to receive the hinge and associated gasket (at least the case with my 2006 XLT). I'm confident anyone with basic hand tool knowledge and the proper tools (a torque wrench is all that's required to ensure proper torque on the through-bolts), can fix this easily. I've never done it before this issue, but found a great youtube video on how and had the hinges both replaced in under 30 minutes. Took me longer to gather my tools and clean up than it did to replace the hinges. Best!

2 people found this helpful.

Same as a few others on here...Mine is a 2012 Escape, lifted the glass Sunday night and both hinges just crumbled in half. Dealer wanted close to $400 to replace hinges. I got them on Amazon for $80 (for both) and replaced them myself. I'm not a DIY-er in general but there's an excellent video on YouTube that walks you right through it. My only issue was I didn't have a T-30 head for my screwdriver and the T-25 started stripping them so I ran out and got the right size and the whole thing took me maybe 45 minutes.

5

Like Everyone Else Here, My 10' Escape Also Fell Victim To The Broken Hinge Problem. The Hinge Broke In 2 Parts So There Is No Resistance When Trying to Remove The Part That Goes Through The Glass With A Hex Screw Driver. It Would Just Spin As A Unit. After Doing All That I Could I Found The Best Solution Was To Get A File And File Down The Bulky Piece That Was Left Over On The Outer End Of The Glass (That Was Attached To The Hinge). After A Lot Of Work I Managed to Decrease The Thickness Where The Seized Hex Bolt And What It Was Attached To Just Fell Through The Window Hole. After That I Installed The Replacement Part And Called It A Day. Installing The Hinge Is Not The Problem. Removing It After It Has Broken Apart Is A Pain And Ford Canada Does Give A ---- About The Problem.

480

Whoever designed the rear hatch mechanicals on Ford Escapes should be ashamed of themselves. My 2009 Ford Escape has had 3 major issues in last few years and all of these problems appear to be very common. 1. Replaced one window hinge due to corrosion. eBay Parts (Buy both LH & RH, they are different and cheaper in pairs). Easy repair, see YouTube. 2. Replaced door actuator. Easy repair, eBay and YouTube. 3. Seized Wiper Motor which quickly drains battery. Moderately difficult but can be done using excellent YouTube video by south side. Probably need a wiper arm puller, I made my own. Don’t get careless and break the rear window!

1 people found this helpful.

It happen to my 2010 FORD escape this past weekend. The auto people said it was not the glass but the truck part. So its not a window claim its an Auot body. Has Ford recall this yet

30

Not to my knowledge. I no longer have this car though, so I'm not keeping up with the status of recalls.

20

As far as I know they are turning blind eye on this issue. It does not exist! I used some string to fasten it a bit. Will order replacement parts and replace once it is warmer. It is too cold outside. Hopefully, will hold before falling down.

480

Get the hinge parts on ebay. There is a specific one for each side, LH or RH. Cheaper to buy the pair. A fairly easy fix using some good YouTube videos. The whole liftgate is garbage. Had to do window LH window hinge, both gas struts, locking mechanism and the latest was a bad or seized rear wiper motor. Use rockauto.com for replacement wiper motor. Cheapest and ultra fast delivery. Great How to YouTube video by South Main.

I have this happening on mine as i type, 1 side corroded all the way and came off almost hitting my nephew in the head, and the other is almost done as well, any help? I plan to replace it, but that is just horrible. If i was an older person, there is no way this wouldn't have caused injury and atleast left me with a 1 hydro arm sticking open.

Yes, I have a 2010 and mine are looking very corroded. Going to be sending along complained to BBB, I think or Ford or both. Thanx for the info. I'm in Southern Ontario

20

Ordered hinges on amazon.ca https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06XGMQWD8/ref=pe_3034960_236394800_TE_3p_dp_1 There was no way to unscrew existing corroded hinges. I had to use a hand saw to cut them. They suggest no power tools but I believe that the glass would survive Dremel metal cutting tool. Took me a couple of hours to remove and clean. Even my tool for reaching upper screws was not a proper one, removing them took me some time, as well. I forgot to disconnect glass heater connectors and one separated from glass. Will have to check how to resolve this issue. Those glass heaters connectors are on cables held by a plastic piece and rings go under the beauty bolt. One was broken before and the second one I broke. Of course, not easy to look for these small parts and that basically exposes rear glass heater connectors/cables to be detached easy accidentally. I was lazy to disable lift gates and was fighting to keep glass in proper position. I was doing replacement alone so needed some more power to keep things in place. Finally replaced and completion was easy. For a long time, I did not have an idea what white powder coming from hinges mean. If I knew I would replace hinges earlier.

1 people found this helpful.

2011 Ford escape. same thing.. one hinge just turned into powder.. bought new hinges replaced them both..

10

I just had this happen. I was shopping opened the glass to setc my bags in the bag and the hinge broke. I got it latched to where my window wouldn't fall out. I went straight to the dealer and he said there is a national recall. I was told to bring it in and if they have a newer vehicle they would just swap out vehicles. There wasn't any arguing just said bring it in Monday it'll be fixed or we will trade vehicles.it is a 2010 mercury mariner.

1 people found this helpful.

Well, almost Christmas and I can't drive my 2010 Ford Escape cause both back hinges rotted off. Has anybody heard of a recall yet?

480

There won’t be a recall at this stage. Go to eBay and order a set for a reasonable price. Several very informative YouTube videos as to how to do it. I did it by myself but I recommend 2 persons to be safer. It is a very easy job, 20 minutes per hinge. I only needed left side but bought the pair for possible future use on right side. Mine is a 2009.

480

I duct taped my rear window in place until such time that my new hinges arrived. Fortunately one of my hinges was still holding. About $40 a pair on Amazon or eBay. Fairly easy job, better with 2 people if both hinges are broken.

2 people found this helpful.

YES!!! The driver side one has totally done what you said and I have a strap holding my window in. Looking for a replacement backend now. Great car

This just happened to my 2012 Ford Escape xlt and not only did the hinges snap the hydraulic lifters r locked outward so now I need hinges replaced and hydraulics on both sides replaced. Anyone know how much these parts should cost?

10

just happened to my 2012. 26 bucks each on Amazon

1 people found this helpful.

It happened to my 2011 XLT also. Lucky for the safety for car behind me that only one broke at once and my glass did not fly down the street. This happened 2 years ago and AIRPORT FORD in Hamilton charged me $500 to fix = Brutal!!! I bought a Toyota RAV 4 yesterday as I will NEVER buy a FORD again.

Happening to a new to me 2010 Escape (Daughters first car). I found replacements on Amazon for $29 for a pair. Issue for me is the star bolts are super corrected in place and stripped out as soon as I tried to take them off.

10

This also happened to my 2012 Escape! What is wrong with these hinges? Why was there no recall? The passenger side hinge disintegrated yesterday, had to have the other side replaced as well. It is a great shock to have this happen and a greater shock to receive the repair bill.

1 people found this helpful.

Happened to my Ford Escape 2009 just two days ago. The hinges on the glass in the rear door crumbled to dust. I am on holiday and have had them fixed temporarily but will add some duct tape. Now the alarm is going when I drive it. Thanks for all the advice I will buy new ones from e bay. Valerie Oct 16th2021

Same issue with my 2011 Escape. Nearly lost the rear glass on the highway as a hinge sheared and the glass nearly flew off if not for the strut! That could have been catastrophic if it detached and hit another vehicle at highway speeds. Same story from the dealer, not covered and had to pay to replace both hinges. It also ripped the tab off the rear defroster element and have still need to replace the entire rear glass to fix that. The hinges, in comparison, are a cheap fix. Replacement glass, not so much. Also resulted in some nasty scratches on the lift gate and cost prohibitive to get that corrected on such an old model.

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