Ford Recall 04V-165: Power train – control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)

Affected: 2001–2003 Ford Escape. Filed with NHTSA on April 6, 2004, covering about 321,903 vehicles.

The problem

On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with 3.0l v6 engines, during deceleration, the engine can stall.

The risk

Should the engine stall, a vehicle crash could occur.

The fix

Dealers will reprogram the power control module (PCM) with the appropriate calibration. Owner notification began on April 21, 2004. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign04V-165 (04V165000)
Manufacturer number04S13
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
ComponentPower train › Automatic transmission › Control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)
Report dateApril 6, 2004
Owners notifiedApril 21, 2004
Vehicles affected321,903
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 04V-165 repair free?

Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will reprogram the power control module (PCM) with the appropriate calibration. Owner notification began on April 21, 2004. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within…

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 321,903 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.