Squeaky Escape

Some 2001-2011 Ford Escape and 2005-2011 Mariner vehicles may exhibit an underbody squeak or creak noise when accelerating from a stop or when braking to a stop. Depending on model year, the noise may appear to come from the front or rear underbody or suspension area.

2001-2007 Only – Front creak/squeak

1. Attach chassis ears to the areas indicated in Figure 1. If the noise can be isolated to one or both of these specific locations, suspect that the subframe locating pins are contacting the locating holes of the vehicle body. Loosen the two front subframe nuts and the two front subframe attachment bolts. Reposition the subframe to center the locating pins so that there is no linger contact with any edge of the locating hole (see Figure 2).  Note: Do not allow the front subframe rear bolts to come out of the lower control arm bushing. Tighten the front subframe nuts (refer to the workshop manual, Section 502-00).

Also note: The pins are more likely to contact the rearward side of the holes. Therefore, the subframe assembly will most likely need to be moved forward in the vehicle.

When installing the front subframe rear bolts, ensure that both front subframe rear bolts are fully engaged in their nuts before tightening to specification.

Adjust front caster, camber and toe (workshop manual Section 204-00).

2001-2011 Rear creak/squeak

1. Attach chassis ears to the areas indicated in Figure 3. If the noise can be isolated to one or both of these specific locations, suspect that the subframe locating pins are contacting the locating holes in the body. Loosen the four rear subframe bolts (See Figure 4). Reposition the subframe to center the locating pins. The pins are more likely to contact the rearward side of the holes, so the subframe will most likely need to be moved forward. Tighten the four bolts to specification and adjust caster, camber and toe.