I just bought a non-running 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid in FB marketplace. Just curious on what the hybrid feels like on the domestic front. Ford did actually got help from Toyota on the hybrid design but they were not exactly the same. The eCVT and the Atkinson engine are designed similarly (but not that close), it uses NiMH as the HV battery from Sanyo and somehow less complicated ABS system. The controls are similar to ICE models (no funky joystick shifter) but this one has AWD (which is good in the winter) I do like the features and the sound system even though it's the base model. I was able to make it run cheaply but still trying to sort out some details in the next few weeks (weather cooperating)
Make sure it has the "upgraded" electronic cooling pump, located below the oil pan. Make sure it has all the software upgrades. there were many. Depending on the year, there was a 12V to traction battery charging switch; drivers kick panel - If I recall correctly. The traction battery may need replacing. Great find......
I've got a couple volts here now I do like them very much It is a completely different system than the hybrid synergy drive system as is the Ford escape I haven't had time to mess around with an escape or a fusion hybrid but I imagine it's just like being into any other model. Imagine parts are a boon no problem to get when these things mess up they don't even have techs at the dealer that really mess with em it seems like. I found that if I buy my volts low mileage I but generally get them 49 to 68 if something goes wrong with the hybrid system they'll warranty it It's kind of weird I'm sure Ford and whatnot probably doesn't have that in place The volt was kind of a different animal and I think that's maybe why they take care of it I'm not really sure but yeah it's cool. Just have to see what it takes to get it running and the brakes on the two cars I've got here the volts are well actually they look very similar to the Toyota firewall mounted ABS actuator but it's mounted on the strut tower and easier to get to but no history of failures
