2008-2012 Ford Escape Liftgate Glass Weatherstrip Replacement

You can get the latest weatherstrip seal ALL YEARS Here-
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T...
If your Latch is rust damaged I show you how to change it Here-
• 2008-2012 Ford Escape ...
In this video I go over in detail how to replace the weather strip without damaging any other components.

[@stickmarshmike]

Big Mak rocks!!! He has the best how to videos out there. Very thorough and explained in perfect detail.Excellent camera work.Should be on TV or something.Thanks Mak...

[@Dippinonthis]

Brian, I really appreciate how thorough you are with your repair and quick tip walkthroughs. Even though I am mechanically inclined and can easily complete most of my "mechanical" repairs/replacements, you style enables someone with no knowledge of vehicles to complete many basic repairs and and diagnostics on their own. In turn, they can avoid a costly trip to the dealership. Thank you for everything you do, your generosity, your extensive knowledge, and your time. Although I've never met you in person, I can tell you genuinely care about helping people like myself and everyone else keep our vehicles running like a top and the knowledge to do some preventative maintenance that will be a huge help down the road.

[@meblen77]

Thank You!!! I can't tell you how much money your videos have saved me by allowing me to do it myself! You are the only reason I still own my Escape.

[@JustinWilliams-mq9qp]

here I am 5 yrs after this video was made, looking for info on how to do the hatch release and seen the video along with this one for the weather strip seal. Thank you for all you do and keep the videos coming

[@christiancollins4264]

One of the most clear, detailed videos I’ve seen on KZbin. I’m a person who likes more detail - I’m not a mechanical person by nature so the more detail, the better - so thank you very much for the information.

[@ruben02021965]

Brian, your videos are by far the most detailed and well done videos I have ever seen on KZbin. You can earn money just doing tutorials on how to do videos on KZbin. Thanks for the great stuff you put out for all of us. Thank you!

[@trebass]

Another great video. You keep nailing all the problems I'm having with my '09 Escape! Thanks!

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+trebass Yep this one was requested many moons ago and we are finally tackling them all.

[@jessicawren3783]

Used this video yesterday to replace the weatherstrip at your recommendation in the liftgate actuator replacement video. Video was perfect and the repair went just as you said. Thank you!

[@snowman4981]

Thanks for the detail. Of all the vids I've gone through on related subjects yours is the only one that takes the time to explain how to disconnect the electrical connector to the defrost. Only because you had a good shot of this and explained it was I able to realize that the last person to work on this (or maybe the factory) installed them upside down on my Expedition, making the part that must be pushed to release the connector not visible. The connectors went back on the right way after the weatherstrip was replace, with no problem at all. Anyone who suggests that the weatherstrip can be replaced without disconnecting this is dreaming.

[@lonniedjones]

My mother's 2011 Escape had the problem where the tailgate actuator stopped working. Though working on cars is not my idea of a great time, I was able to replace the actuator (by watching your other video) and the weatherstrip (by watching this one). You are my hero. Figuring all of the steps out by trial and error would have been frustrating and undoubtedly more expensive.

[@gregwhite7008]

I just went through replacing my weatherstrip as well as the lifts and this video is what embolden me to do it. It went exactly as you showed in the video. I really like it when there are no surprises! Now I just have to wait and see if is weather tight. Oh BTW, if anyone is thinking of doing this the price for the weatherstrip has gone up considerably since this video was made. The price on Amazon is now $129.88, not the fifty something mentioned in the video, but still a worthwhile investment to stop water from leaking into and corroding your latch. Thanks again for a clear, thorough, and straightforward video.

[@acris4167]

They're $159.00 now.

[@evaeudorastowe3504]

Thank you so very much for posting this video. I was able to replace the Weatherstrip on my '10 Escape today within 1/2 hour (I have acrylic nails that slow me down with these types of projects). This has been leaking for a few years now and the Auto Repair wanted $160 to fix it. Saved myself a few $$. :)

[@SLP828]

This was the only video that addressed the real issue. Vibrations cause particles to get between the glass and gasket leaving a gap for water. So buying the OEM gasket would end up with the same problem. I replaced mine with the firmer gasket recommended here which makes a tighter seal and I have not had a leak since. Thank you!

[@judahb9576]

Thank you so much for the videos! I was easily able to change my own weatherstrip and actuator with your assistance. Great level of detail! I was confident and had no questions after watching. Thanks for the replacement part links too! Incredibly helpful!

[@jmjimbo]

Thanks I just did this for my Dad on his Escape. I bought the one from the link you posted and it came pre glued. So you don't need to worry about glue. If you ever run out of videos to make a walk through on a 4x4 5.0 F150 transmission fluid changes would be very helpful. Transfer case fluid or front/rear differentials fluid change wouldn't hurt either. Thanks again the videos are very helpful.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+Jeff Bigsley I have a video on the trans here- kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4LIYmRtbZ57qbM

[@lit2010ny]

This video is great, so helpful and I appreciate you taking the time to show it step by step and also including a link for the weatherstrip, perfect!

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+Kyle Blackall Thanks!

[@driverain2]

+Kyle Blackall I totally agree ! He is producing some of the clearist, most easy to understand how to vids on u tube. the link to the replacement part is icing on the cake......Thank You Ford Man !!

[@kristindagsher2725]

Thank you so much for this video, it made the repair super easy! One side note - when you replace the old factory weatherstripping with the upgraded OEM weatherstripping, because it is so much thicker, you may need to adjust your latch forward a little in order for the latching mechanism to be able to engage the hook on the window. Easy-peasy by lifting the plastic latch cover, loosening the 2 bolts on the latching mechanism, sliding it forward a smidge, tightening the bolts and replacing the plastic cover. Thanks again!!

[@acris4167]

I'll have to try that. Replaced mine today, and the glass closes quite tight as I have to push on it to shut it. I should have realized that before I buttoned it up.

[@speed3b]

Hi! Thank you for all the great videos! I've been working hard lately to keep my '09 Escape rolling without any problems. One thing I would like to note that could help some people and save a little time with this repair: Rather than disconnecting the power from the wiper at the wiper motor and pulling off the conduit cover you can instead remove the rubber cover/boot where the wires go into the lift gate, unhook the plastic harness, pull the wires out and unplug the wire harness from within there. A little more detail: Peal back the rubber cover/boot on the right hand side where the wires enter the lift gate (you may need a pair of pliers or your flat head screwdriver to get under the rubber from behind the harness it is over). Careful not to rip or tare the rubber. This will expose a white plastic harness. On the left side of the of the harness is a little plastic clip. Use your little screw driver to push it to the right and release the harness. You should then be able to swing the left side of the harness out. Grab the wires connected to the harness and begin pulling to the left until the the wire harness connection point is accessible. Simply unplug it; I believe it just has a simple clip style. Final note: It's easier to put the rubber cover/boot back on the plastic harness before clipping it back onto the lift gate.

[@douglaslally156]

Rained here in RI yesterday. Had the back seats down in my 08 because I had a big box loaded in the previous day. As I reversed I looked back and saw the water streaming in under the hatch glass for the first time, never saw it before nor know how long it had been going on. It was only because the seats were down that I saw it. So I'll replace the wx stripping. Your video is immensely helpful, thank you. I think I can handle this.

[@tjclass8154]

Thank you for this video. It is spot on. The only thing I would add is use a generous amount of the strip when putting it on (do NOT pull it tight), ESPECIALLY along the laterals. On my first attempt I had about 3" extra length of strip. I focused on the corners for a while but they were fine. I pretty much started over and focused more on using as much as possible on the laterals. It fit perfectly. I've read where some people think their new strip is too long. That's probably not the case. Just keep working on it and use as much strip as possible along the way.

[@lancehendrix8612]

Really good instructions. 2010 just changed out and went so easy thanks to this!

[@urntwrthyZ]

FordTechMakuloco: Thank you for doing these, you are am amazing resource for Escape owners. Great video, makes the job a breeze. I would caution people to get the latest part revision, currently part number ending in the letter "C." I changed my seal today...it was leaking in heavy rainstorms or when washing my 2009 FEH. It was apparent it had been changed before...it was a single piece seal and when replaced before someone mistakenly installed one of the defroster connectors upside down (a minor PIA.) This newest revision was noticeably "plusher" than the one it replaced, which again was already a replacement part.

[@danielmartindale4940]

Very useful video, used it as a guide to replace the seal on my 2010 ford territory and it made the job very easy. Thanks!

[@ryanw9667]

Thank you. Mostly for the information on the weather stripping and how the new stuff is better. But for the walk-through as well.

[@shooshoousa]

This was a great help for my 2010 Mazda Tribute. DIY and no more leaking.

[@muskwa52]

Thanks again. I sure learn a lot watching your videos; and save a lot of money! You're an excellent teacher.

[@ChristopherCerta]

Thanks for the video. I have a 2010 Mariner, and I thought there was humidity causing the drips on the inside of the glass! I followed the link to the replacement part, and the price has gone up to $139, but to prevent any damage I think it’s worth it.

[@accurry8566]

I bought this strip from the link you provided in November 2020 and the price kept fluctuating between $135.00 and $150.00. I bought it at $137.00. I am going to get my teen daughters out there to help me switch it out and hold up the glass. I will let you know if its as easy as you showed us in this really great instructional video! Thanks!

[@MacAdGuy]

Thank you. This is really helpful. Unfortunately, I think this leak has caused a catastrophic electrical issue. When the battery is connected everything goes crazy. Off/On - lights, radio, horn, flasher, wipers, blinkers. Is there a "go-to" solutions. Thanks again for the walk through and any advice.

[@wkdravenna]

Thank you brother for sharing the knowledge with me to fix my girls car. You are a real great person and I appreciate you. 👍😁

[@Mdaddarioe]

Lol. "Some tools you will need: Fresh cup of coffee..."

[@watershed44]

Mdelta2000 You'd ALWAYS here the techs at my old workplaces (dealerships) recommend this as part of each job. LOL Sometimes they would jokingly put it on the internal R/O. Especially if it was a difficult job!

[@evanm9024]

Just bought an 08 escape and took it through the car wash....water pouring through the back glass lol. Thank-you very much, extremely helpful.

[@SealofPerfection]

They updated these seals sometime along the way. The originals had a "thinner" seal, with a ridge on it that the window was supposed to shut against and have it funnel water. They failed like crazy. I've replace a few hundred of these over the years. One day I pulled a new one out of the box, and it was fat and more rounded, like the one in the video. I thought "Ah, an update" Went to parts and had them research when that happened....and nothing. They never changed the number, at least at that point. They just started putting the new part out under the same old number. The new ones still fail, too but not as quickly. The glass fit is TIGHT when you put on on, and you should put some sealer on the seam the rubber installs on, too because not only does water leak between the glass and seal, but it gets under the seal where it mounts to the metal and travels around down to the interior that way, too.

[@glennroland9512]

Excellent instructions. Saved me $$$ on this and liftgate actuator replacement. Thanks!!

[@davidallen4174]

This gasket is up to $119.14. A little higher than you stated in the video. Thanks very much for the videos on the latch/actuator and the whether stripping for the window. Seldom do we find someone that's so talented and knowledgeable, both as a mechanic and a teacher, you are. You present the information in a professional format with excellent audio and camera placement. Keep up the good work we appreciate you!!!

[@acris4167]

They're up to $159.00 now.

[@harvester0181]

@@acris4167is there a particular type of glue/adhesive I need to apply?

[@acris4167]

@@harvester0181 standard weatherstripping adhesive should be ok.

[@granbubba1]

I appreciate the help! The weatherstripping, when worn out, allows water to leak into the rear liftgate allowing rust to develop along the bottom. That seal is not cheap, though, as of 1/2020 $140.00...OUCH!

[@tomofwc]

Thank you! This video made replacement so much easier.

[@steadyeddie7453]

Something many would overlook but you didn't. You fixed the the problem, not just the symptom. I have no doubt some people would diagnose the bad latch ass'y and just replace it, but not go to the root of the problem, the bad weatherstripping. Almost like a blown fuse. 90% of the time they blow because of another problem, but many people would pop in a fuse and send the car down the road. In any case, your are meticulous enough you should consider being a machinist. Thanks for the video.

[@MrEGOMACHINE]

Thanks for the thorough guide. This was very helpful.

[@walterlininger4054]

Thanks so much for your video's because I have been able to extend the life of my '09 Escape. Can you do a video on replacing the Door Weatherstripping? Mine has holes and some places are completely gone. Thank you so much.

[@daveburgess2815]

Fantastic video. So easy to follow. Very well done!!

[@Jen-sp9yu]

If you don't have a fancy pole jack, and don't wanna use your head for long, just reclip the supports and work on the bottom until you get to the top corners. 😉

[@pamelaktay]

Thanks for giving me the confidence to repair the weather stripping myself...great tutorial! However, I am now looking for the stripping that is for my 2008 Escape tailgate glass and am not seeing it. (Only finding listings for year models 2009-2012) Are these the same?

[@davidhafkin1982]

Thanks, followed along and it went easy. Only thing to note is you really have to work it into the corners really well or you will think it's too big. I had to go back and really get in those corners as much as possible. It fit perfectly

[@georgestepanov4789]

Many thanks Brian, I have the same issue with 3gen Navigator, water inside liftgate, and water leaks through weather seal. Will try to do the same procedure like you performed with Escape, and if that doesn't help I think the next step would be replacing glass hinges.

[@ryana6836]

Awesome videos! So you don't use any new adhesive? Thanks!!

[@bwuepper439]

Nice video as always Brian, very informative. My problem is my 2012 Escape (which is new to me), the liftgate glass latch does not operate, so I can't seem to get the glass open. My guess is that the seal leaked quite a bit as the bottom of the liftgate is rusted alone the bottom seam. There appears to be several methods to unlock the latch but the latch has to work for that to happen. (and thanks for the service manual pages for the subframe R&R)

[@longarmsupplies]

Thanks for this video Brian! I have to replace this on my 2010 Escape. I just took my old one off and it's packed full of dust, as is the gooey stuff. Should I clean off the goo and get some new glue, and if so, which piece to I apply the glue to? I'm in Canada and I'm searching for a new weatherstrip right now.

[@TeddyNovak1]

Once again you saved my butt. Perfect instructions. Thanks again.

[@terryrobinson3256]

I tested the latch actuator and it worked fine...intermittent operation led to complete stop of operation. Power line in on main connector showed no power when remote key used. All other components in harness worked. Is there a relay/solenoid further upstream that can be tested/replaced? Thx, super instructional video btw!

[@pilotcarz]

Very good video. Ford garage wanted well over $400. parts and labor to replace weatherstrip and latch------Took me 45 minutes and $170 parts. (weatherstrip is pricy)

[@spencerdennis9610]

Great video thanks man! Can I ask, how long should the new seal last ? You said the factory one wears down after a few years. Unfortunately the one on amazon in the description doesn't ship to Canada, so I'll have to get it from the dealer probably :(

[@peelman1506]

did this on my 2011, had some rust starting at a spot weld at the top under the 3rd brake light and where the original seal split near the wiper motor.

[@sethandersson7021]

Easy! Only took me 20 minutes. Thanks!

[@DaveLundy]

Very well done video. I just noticed one of those today while I was stuck in line behind it. I'm curious why the window opens separately from the lift gate. I've never seen anything like that as far as I know. It just seems to me to be an unnecessary complication.

[@aaronsliwinski4989]

I just purchased a 2010, it has the start of rust along edge of hatch on the left side. Should I replace seal or clean and silicone spray?

[@anitaguerramikessister2866]

Thank you! Gray haired old lady will be doing this next weekend!

[@johngraham2464]

My wife surprised me a while back. I had a bulb go bad. Bought the new bulb and procrastinated...too hot...too cold...didn't feel like it...forgot. Anyway she watched one of his video's and did it herself in about ten minutes. Crow actually doesn't taste that bad. You can do it probably better than most guys...who throw directions away or don't check for you tube.

[@cllyde]

Awesome video! Can you tell me if the weatherstrip seal you linked that says "2009-2012 Ford Escape" really works with the 2008 Ford Escape model? I think it does since you say this video was for 2008-2012, but Amazon doesn't seem to think it is compatible for some reason. Thanks!

[@carpetcowboy58]

Not many DIYer's will have a pole jack to hold the window but a 6 foot stepladder works nicely.

[@beckypearman5301]

have you done a video about the main rear hatch leaking? My 2012 stays soaked in the back and I believe (from weather signs around the metal areas) that this seal is leaking as well

[@thesavo]

Have you ever replaced one of these due to wet latch bolt concern and it wasn't the weather strip? Also it looks like a lot of the glue was cleaned away. Is it not really necessary ?

[@acris4167]

Since the replacement weatherstripping is new, it causes a really tight fit to the glass, as I need to push down to get it to shut. I just assumed it will compress over time. Then I read a comment about adjusting the latch which I should've realized before reinstalling the trim panel. Now I'm worried about worst case scenario if it's too tight. Could that shatter the glass? I'll have to go back and see if adjusting the latch will help and also allowing a good seal. What do you think? Also, the hinges were badly corroded, replaced them, too, along with the tailgate actuator. The wiper motor failed also, but that will be another day.

[@robertshepard182]

I can find the weatherstripping online for the 05-07 models and then the 08-12 models, is there a size or dimension difference between these two? There is a drastic difference in price and would like to save money if possible. Awesome videos!

[@DouglasWalkerSculpture]

worked perfect, thanks for the great instructional video. Cheers

[@coryianni8800]

Thanks, just installed mine, glass is hard to close. should i move the latching mech a little bit or will the stripping ease with time. Thanks again.

[@thelonelywolf88]

Have you done a video on replacing the door weatherstripping on an 08 Escape? I just discovered mine is torn

[@craighafferman4079]

You guys rock! Thank you for the help👍

[@willb2908]

Thank you for the videos much appreciated. Ordered the exact part number you referenced from Ford. I'm left with 1-2" too much weatherstrip. Have confirmed every section is firmly snug to the metal flange including the corners. When I overlay my old molding on top of the new one it's shorter by 1-2". Any ideas? Thx again.

[@willb2908]

The longer seal simply needs to be crammed a little in each of the corners (think bunching your socks towards your ankle). Works great. Thx!

[@billhill5181]

Very thorough and informative. Nice work young man. Quick question. I'm doing this on an expedition, essentially the same process. Do we not need any sort of adhesive for the Weatherstrip, or does it just go on like you presented in the video? Thanks!

[@harvester0181]

That’s what I’m wondering- did you ever find an answer?

[@shooshoousa]

Would this part and process also work for a 2010 Mazda Tribute? They are basically the same as the Ford Escape...right?

[@blueback21]

does the weathers tip here fit a 2006 Escape? Great Video

[@elizabethannbuletza6328]

Is it posdible to slip the new weather stripping over the glass to avoid having to take the arms off?

[@stanquerin2568]

Ok i changed the weatherstrip for the glass but can you tell me what the part number is for the actual door seal mine looks like it's coming frazzled at the bottom of the door while it's opened and in heavy rains i get water pooling around the striker on the body

[@bigginksu]

Great video, and I believe the steps on a 2008 Mountaineer should be comparable (at least I hope!). Bad thing is that the new weatherstripping for it is around $147, unless using a universal weatherstripping will be okay.

[@allang1905]

Hi Brian, I have a 2006 Escape where the rear main lift gate hinge pins are worn - Or so I think. It jiggles when pushed upon (open position) and you can hear it clunk while driving. Do I need to buy a whole new hinge or are there aftermarket pin kits with bushings that could be used for this fix - not sure where I would find. I appreciate your time and all the effort you go to in your videos. Thanks again. Allan

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+Allan G I would replace the whole hinge yes.

[@id9350]

I was wondering if you can help me with fixing a problem I have with the liftgate glass in my 2012 Ford Escape. The electrical connection to the switch that unlocks the window broke off while i was transporting something in the trunk. I cant seem to find a replacement part for this switch and electrical connection. Now my liftegate ajar light is always on and I cannot open the glass. Any help would be appreciated.

[@sdjan1961]

This was a great help to me however I started putting on the new gasket as instructed, starting at the latch and working gradually up the sides and along the top and found the gasket was about 2 inches TOO LONG! I pushed it into all the corners as snug as it would go and still had extra. DANG! Since I applied the black sealant, I did want to undo every thing so I work the extra amount around the side and back to the latch and ended up cutting it to make it fit and sealing the connection with the black sealant. Hope it doesn't leak! Maybe I just got a bad gasket? Ordered the one provided in the link.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

They come long yes you need to work in the excess along the way.

[@mianshahzadsharifgh6883]

hi dear my ford expedition 2003 left back gate lock not open auto matic and cannot open gate from in side - but from out side open- i dont know what is problem

[@dougeastman]

Have you seen this problem in the earlier years (01-07?) Wondering if this is something I should look out for. 05 owner here :) Thanks!

[@qwerty101]

What part number are the replacement bolts used to mount the actuator?

[@funky_Buddha72]

Do u need new glue because mine does not have any weather stripping in the back hatch

[@n310ea]

I heard that late model Ford Mustangs have problems with leaking door strips, is that true?

[@frankofthenorth]

The fresh cup of coffee it totally required, I agree

[@lauravf3037]

Love your videos

[@mikel9524]

Great video, thanks. Wish I bought it 5 years ago. Now they want atleast $140 for it

[@sergiomoctezuma9444]

Que tal amigo tendrás un video de como cambiar el sensor de temperatura ambiental y la ubicación del mismo es de una mercury mariner 2010. Gracias y muy buenos videos ya solucione varios detalles de mi camioneta

[@jimvasconcellos6419]

What is the part number for the double sided tape that holds the defroster wiring track/conduit to the glass?

[@anajay78]

That's cool nice job.

[@aperson539]

The weather stripping on my car was put on backwards and has rusted the liftgate, the wiper motor and arm, and the latch system.

[@ncspack1]

Do you have an Amazon link to an OEM weatherstrip that would fit a 2008 Expedition Limited 4x4? My liftgate has rust all along the bottom and I saw this video about the Escape. I figured Ford had the same problem with other vehicles that used the same type of weatherstrip. I checked my back glass the last time it rained and found a thin trickle of water flowing down on the inside of my glass. Never saw it before. Thanks for the video and help.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

No link but here is the part number- 7L1Z-7842084-BD

[@ncspack1]

Thanks! I was hoping I could find something that was still high quality, but not Ford OEM expensive.

[@felixelizondo6171]

Thanks for the video 👍👍👍👍

[@rondasalas607]

I have a 2010 mercury mariner with the same problem. Will this same part fit a mariner? Thanks

[@rondasalas607]

Found my answer. ☺️

[@TIKIMAN198]

Is the bad weather strip causing Escapes to rust on the botton of the liftgate? That is also a common issue besides the liftgate switch going bad.

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+TIKIMAN198 Yes it is as mentioned in the video it rots the shell of the liftgate out also.

[@187WCB]

Would XL-6(or equivalent) fix this as opposed to replacement?

[@FordTechMakuloco]

+MikeP47 No once you have seen one of these that have failed you will see why. The gasket deforms so badly it is not coming back. The new one is much more plush to take up manufacturing inconsistencies that is common on the newer escapes.

[@joespicer6204]

I bought the new weather strip, however do i need to buy some sort of adhesive?

[@FordTechMakuloco]

no

[@ryanquasebarth7404]

I'm having a similar problem with my 01 explorer sport (2 door) exept it's not leaking inside the door but it's leaking and landing straight down on the carpet at the back or the car.... anyone have a link for the correct weather seal for my gen explorer? Or is it the same one? (He says all years, but I'm not sure if he means "all years" of that specific generation of explorer, or literally all years of explorers)..... anyone???.....

[@Thatsmessedupman]

Wow the link to the strip on amazon is now showing $119.49. I dont like how Amazon has changed to allowing same add different sellers. So I really have no idea if that was the seller that you got it for $58. Are all aftermarket better then the original? How would I know if I was getting a good one that will fix the issue?

[@corylee7989]

Does anyone know where to get this cheaper than $120? My wife's 2012 is deformed and with getting a new tailgate from an accident, I want to get this changed out. Everything is working fine for now.

[@ScootersChannel]

Price for this weather striping shot up to $131.00. Any other options for sealing?

[@amandawoodley3749]

I like that fresh cup of coffee