Inspection and Verification

2007 Ford Escape Base, 2.3 Z, FWD, AutomaticSECTION Inspection and Verification
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Verify the concern by running the engine (with the vehicle on the ground) or road testing the vehicle to duplicate the condition.
  2. Visually inspect the components of the exhaust system and related controls that may affect exhaust gas quality or loss of power.
  3. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage. Refer to the following chart.
    VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

    Mechanical
    • Exhaust pipe pinched or crushed
    • Cracked exhaust manifold
    • Damaged turbocharger inlet Y-pipe
    • Damaged exhaust Y-pipe
    • Damaged downpipe
    • Damaged catalytic converter
    • Damaged exhaust intermediate pipe
    • Damaged extension pipe (if equipped)
    • Damaged muffler and tailpipe
    • Loose or damaged sensors or sensor mountings
    • Broken or damaged exhaust hanger brackets
    • Dirty engine air cleaner
    • Loose or damaged heat shields
  4. Verify that the exhaust system is installed correctly, with clamps correctly located and tightened to specification.
  5. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom. Go to Symptom Chart - Exhaust System Β  or Go to Symptom Chart - Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)Β .
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

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

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