Dennis:

There is a fire-related recall for 01-04 Escapes equipped with ABS. Check to see when you 05 was manufactured.

This is from an 02 Escape case I am currently handling:

"In a small percentage of the affected vehicles, the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) module connector may have missing or dislodged wire seals. This condition could allow contamination to enter the module connector, creating a potential for an electrical short. An electrical short might cause an ABS malfunction that would illuminate the ABS warning light, and in some cases, the module may overheat resulting in burning odor, smoke, and/or fire. This condition could occur either when the vehicle ignition switch is in the off position or while the vehicle is being operated." Ford Recall 07S51, 04/10/2007

Hope this helps.