Hi all, new to the forum. Friend of mine has a 2008 Ford escape that just sent the cylinder 1 connecting rod cap through the block. They just had an oil change done the day before at Valvoline, but upon initial inspection, it appears there was no negligence on their part short of not putting in enough oil which I couldn't verify with a hole in the block. They still owe money on it. Vehicle has 170,000 miles on it and unfortunately from what I've read online is that these are kind of known for rod bearing issues. I'm also suspect that a rod bolt may have broken or walked out instead of the bearing failing based on no "Blueing" from heat on the rod cap. I am a GM and Hyundai dealer mechanic so my experience with an Escape is limited. Looking at possibly replacing the engine with a used engine. In my search it looks like only a 2008 2.3L engine is compatible with a 2008 escape. In 2009 I believe they went to a 2.5L. Is there a reason I'm not familiar with as to why i can't use an earlier 2.3L engine for example a 2006 or 2007 model? I'm trying to open up my options especially since a used 2008 with roughly 170,000 is still going for 1,000 and who knows if that one will fail soon also. Any input or suggestions would be appreciated. I'm trying to help them out because finances are tight with them. Thanks!

 

As you are aware, manufacturers change specs and settings midyear and there could be unknown changes that might have been made between years and then simple changes become problems up the road. Ford is no different and "will fits" can bring unbelievable problems.