Ford Escape: Identifying components in the engine compartment

2.5L I4 engine

1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Engine oil filler cap
3. Automatic transmission dipstick (if equipped)
4. Brake/Clutch fluid reservoir
5. Air filter assembly
6. Power distribution box
7. Battery
8. Engine coolant bleed valve
9. Engine oil dipstick
10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir

3.0L V6 eng

1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Air filter assembly
3. Brake fluid reservoir
4. Automatic transmission fluid dipstick
5. Power distribution box
6. Battery
7. Coolant bleed valve
8. Engine oil dipstick
9. Engine oil filler cap
10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir

Windshield washer fluid

Add fluid to fill the reservoir if the level is low. In very cold weather, do not fill the reservoir completely.

Only use a washer fluid that meets Ford specifications. Do not use any special washer fluid such as windshield water repellent type fluid or bug wash. They may cause squeaking, chatter noise, streaking and smearing.

Refer to the Maintenance product specifications and capacities section in this chapter.

State or local regulations on volatile organic compounds may restrict the use of methanol, a common windshield washer antifreeze additive.

Washer fluids containing non-methanol antifreeze agents should be used only if they provide cold weather protection without damaging the vehicle’s paint finish, wiper blades or washer system.

WARNING: If you operate your vehicle in temperatures below 40°F (5°C), use washer fluid with antifreeze protection. Failure to use washer fluid with antifreeze protection in cold weather could result in impaired windshield vision and increase the risk of injury or accident.

Note: Do not put washer fluid in the engine coolant reservoir. Washer fluid placed in the cooling system may harm engine and cooling system components.

Checking and adding washer fluid for the liftgate

Washer fluid for the liftgate is supplied by the same reservoir as the windshield.

Changing the wiper blades

1. Pull the wiper blade and arm away from the glass.
2. Squeeze the locking tabs to release the blade from the arm and pull the blade away from the arm to remove it.

3. Attach the new blade to the arm and snap it into place.

Replace wiper blades at least once per year for optimum performance.

Poor wiper quality can be improved by cleaning the wiper blades and the windshield. Refer to Windows and wiper blades in the Cleaning chapter.

To prolong the life of the wiper blades, it is highly recommended to scrape off the ice on the windshield before turning on the wipers. The layer of ice has many sharp edges and can damage the micro edge of the wiper rubber element.

Changing rear window wiper blade

The rear wiper arm is designed without a service position. This reduces the risk of damage to the blade in an automatic car wash.

To replace the wiper blade:

1. Grab the wiper arm with one hand close to the arm/blade joint and pull it as far away from the glass as possible. Do not use excessive force because it can break the wiper arm at the heel. Hold it there until the next step.

2. Grab the primary structure of the blade with the other hand close to the arm/blade joint.
3. Grip tightly and press on the arm/blade joint from beneath and separate the blade from the arm.
4. Attach the new wiper to the wiper arm and press it into place until a click is heard.

If you find this procedure too difficult, please see your dealer.

Service recommendations

Engine oil