2001 Ford Escape disconnected the negative battery cable reconnected and vehicle starts runs fine however when is turned off interior lights radio etc work?

This sounds like a problem with the Body Control Module (BCM) or a related wiring issue. When you disconnect the battery, the BCM usually resets. Since your Escape starts and runs fine, the main engine control systems are likely okay. However, the fact that the interior lights and radio stay on after the ignition is off indicates a failure in the system that controls power to accessories after the vehicle is shut down.

Here's a breakdown of possible causes and troubleshooting steps:

* BCM Failure: The BCM is the brain controlling most electrical accessories. A malfunctioning BCM might not be properly shutting off power to the accessories when the ignition is switched off. This is a common culprit.

* Faulty BCM Relay: The BCM uses relays to control power to various circuits. A stuck relay might be keeping power flowing even after the ignition is off.

* Wiring Issue: A short circuit or damaged wiring harness could be bypassing the normal power shutoff pathways. Look for any frayed or damaged wires, especially near the battery, fuse box, and BCM.

* Faulty Ignition Switch: Although less likely given the car starts, a faulty ignition switch could be failing to properly break the power circuit to accessories.

* Aftermarket Accessories: Any aftermarket accessories (stereo, alarm systems, etc.) or improperly installed ones could be interfering with the normal power shutoff.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Check Fuses: Inspect all fuses related to the interior lights and radio in the fuse box (usually under the hood and/or inside the cabin). Look for blown fuses or ones that are loose. Replace any blown fuses, but if they blow immediately again, you have a short circuit somewhere.

2. Battery Voltage: Test the battery voltage with a multimeter. Make sure it's within the normal range. A weak battery can sometimes cause strange electrical issues.

3. Disconnect Aftermarket Accessories: Temporarily disconnect any aftermarket accessories to see if that resolves the issue.

4. Professional Diagnosis: If the above steps don't pinpoint the problem, it's highly recommended to take your Escape to a qualified mechanic or auto electrician. They can use diagnostic tools to check the BCM, relays, and wiring for faults. They'll be able to accurately diagnose whether it's a BCM issue, a wiring problem, or another component.

Leaving the lights and radio on will drain your battery, so it's crucial to get this fixed as soon as possible. Don't keep driving the vehicle until the problem is resolved.