How do I Find a Used Ford Escape?

No matter what year of the Ford Escape you are looking for, finding the right one can be overwhelming. When buying any used car, it is important to know what features you want in your vehicle and which ones you can live without, what year you'd like, and what resources are available to you. By comparing options and narrowing your search down to features you want in your vehicle, you can find the right used Ford Escape for you.

Instructions

Finding a Used Ford Escape

1

Decide what year you want your Ford Escape to be. Introduced in 2001, the Ford Escape has only two generations available. The first generation consists of Escapes from 2001 to 2007. These were offered in three different trim packages and a leather option was added a couple of years later. The second generation Ford Escapes are still being made and also come in three trim packages.

2

Compare the engine options for the Ford Escape. The first generation Escapes were offered in both a four- and six-cylinder version. The 2001 to 2005 four-cylinder produced 130 horsepower (hp) while the 2005 to 2008 version made 153 hp. The V6 version boasted 200 hp. On the second generation, the four-cylinder makes 171 hp while the six-cylinder produces 240 hp. When considering your engine and hp options, keep in mind the difference in gas mileage each will get. If you are looking for a sportier version, consider the V6, but if you're looking for a good commuter vehicle with good gas mileage, the four-cylinder may be the best option.

3

Decide if you want a manual or automatic transmission. While this usually depends on personal preference, it can limit other options on your vehicle. In the first generation Escapes, a five-speed automatic transmission came standard on the V6. The four-cylinder Escape had both a four-speed manual and a five-speed automatic transmission option, but most came with the automatic. The second generation Escapes were offered in a six-speed automatic that was standard on the V6 and most of the four-cylinders. Only the XLS version of the Ford Escape came with a five-speed manual transmission option.

4

Research and choose what other options you want on your Ford Escape. Features like power windows and locks, leather interior and hybrid vehicle options are something you should take into consideration. If you don't care about what features your vehicle has, you'll have many more used vehicles to choose from versus if you are very specific with the features you want. The best option for finding your used vehicle is to look for one that will get you the best value for your money and have the features that will keep you happy with your used Ford Escape for years to come.