Contact Ford service on twitter. If you don't have an account, sign up just to speak with them. Explain the noise issue to them like you did to us and the problem the regional manager is giving you. They will assign you to a customer relations manager. Their job is to resolve your issue. I was given the option of turning the Escape in for the 2.0 liter model or being reimbursed a lease payment. I'm not sure if this will help but have you tried putting fuel cleaner in the tank after you fill up?