2005 ford escape awd shutters very badly upon take off up to about 30 miles per hour then gets progressively better. Is the center drive shaft bearing bad and is it repairable . Ford says the driveshaft has to be replaced at a cost of $900. Can't anyone repair the bearing and u-joints cheaper?

Have a 2005 ford escape XLT 4WD and when I get between 45-60km per hour the vehicle shakes like I'm driving on a washboard. Took it to Ford - they told me I need a new drive shaft - $1200 with taxes and labour. I already replaced the alternator in 2007 - that was over $800 because of where it is positioned. Takes hours and hours to get at it because it is buried under the motor. I think Ford needs to give us all a discount. Sounds like these are common problems with the Ford Escape.

Try calling a Driveshaft specialist.They are in the phone Book.They can fix/repair at a lower cost than the dealer.you might have to take it out yourself.

Go to napa get new u joints they are $15 each. look up on youtube replacing u joints. with a few basic tools you can fix it yourself for $30