 Bought this vehicle new in 2004. No major problems for the first 40k miles other than the "fragile" paint. It is covered with pain chips that form rust almost immediately. Next I had brake problems that were repaired free due to a service bulletin on the rotors. The spare tire release rusted out and was replaced. The seat cloth is easy to stain/hard to clean. Headlight has developed condensation problem - will be replaced shortly. The engine is now drinking antifreeze. Can't find any leaking so it must be a more severe problem. Driver side door seal torn apart due to a poorly placed screw in the door trim. Overall I'm not happy with my Ford Escape and will not be a repeat customer.