2003 Ford Escape 3.0 1, FWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Service Intervals & Specifications

REPLACEMENT INTERVALS

Component (1) Interval - Miles (Normal Schedule) Interval - Miles (Special Operating Conditions)
Accessory Drive Belt (2) (3)
Air Filter 30,000 (3)
Cabin Air Filter 15,000 (3)
Coolant (4)(5) (3)
Front Wheel Bearings (2WD) 150,000 30,000
Fuel Filter 30,000 15,000
Oil & Filter 5000 3000
PCV Valve 100,000 (3)
Rear Axle Fluid (6) 150,000 (7)
Spark Plugs 100,000 60,000
Timing Belt 120,000 (3)
Transfer Case Fluid 150,000 60,000
A/T Fluid 150,000 30,000
M/T Fluid (8) (3)
(1) Applies to vehicles used for towing a trailer, using a camper, or car-top carrier, operated in dusty conditions, off-road operation or with extensive idling and/or low-speed driving for long distances. As in heavy commercial use such as taxi, patrol car or delivery.
(2) Replace at 120,000 miles if not replaced within last 100,000 miles.
(3) If vehicle is driven in dusty conditions or used under special operating conditions, inspect and replace as required.
(4) Green engine coolant replaced at 45,000 miles, and then every 30,000 miles thereafter. Orange engine coolant replaced at 150,000 miles.
(5) Yellow engine coolant replaced at 5 years or 100,000 miles (which ever comes first). After initial change, replace Yellow coolant every 3 years or 50,000 miles.
(6) Rear axles and PTO units containing synthetic lubricant and light duty trucks with Ford-design axles, are lubricated for life. These lubricants should not be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected, service is required or axle assembly has been submerged in water.
(7) On Police or Taxi models, replace every 100,000 miles. If operated at or near maximum GVW, in dusty conditions or off-road, replace every 50,000 miles.
(8) Manufacturer does not specify a service interval.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.