2003 Ford Escape. Noticed paint around lift gate ledge bubbling and peeling. Only top layer of paint is peeling, gray layer appears to be fine, no signs of bubbling or peeling. Talked to dealer and they said it was because the two layers never bonded when the car was painted at the factory. When I contacted the manufacturer to see if they would cover it, they said to go to the dealer and they would look at it and decide what to do. Never heard back from dealer after I made contact with them.

- Hillsboro, OR, USA

Rear hatch - sheet metal around plastic trim piece used for handle and space between window and handle dent easily during normal opening and closing. Several body shops we have taken the vehicle to for estimates says this happens alot. Area should be reinforced or hatch should be made of composite material like the mini-vans.

- Waukesha, WI, USA

2003 Ford Escape leaks dirt into passenger compartment when driving down a gravel road, at times the dust inside the passenger cabin is so thick it is impossible to see road or instruments. Road dust is visible passing by door and seals. Dealer has serviced vehicle twice for this condition. Last visit the dealer suggested they would be happy to clean the vehicle out anytime we brought it in for service, and we should not operate the heater/air on gravel roads( we live on a gravel road). Ford customer care was notified, but never responded.

- Centerview, MO, USA