Here's an update. An FEH owner in Reno reported the same issue. Her service shop reported "ABS test C1526, replaced master cyl. per TSB 05 08 05." Another owner said it is a sensor failure in the brake master cyl. in early production '05s. An online reference says DTC C1526 may occur along with DTC C1524. Another reference refers to TSB 06 10 14, "ABS light on and DTC 1475, Hybrid built between 8/2/04 and 3/30/06, Revised."

This is from a post in this forum a couple of years ago:


TSB
05-8-5 ABS AND BRAKE WARNING LAMP ON WITH DTC C1526 - DTC C1524 MAY ALSO BE PRESENT - VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO 2/11/2005

Publication Date: April 8, 2005

FORD: 2005 Escape Hybrid

ISSUE:
Some 2005 Escape Hybrid vehicles built prior to 2/11/2005, may exhibit the yellow ABS and the red brake warning lamps illuminating after the engine is started, and an increase in brake pedal effort. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C1526 (Brake Pedal Travel Sensor) will be present in the ABS module, C1524 (Brake Pedal Travel Sensor Calibration Incomplete) may also be present.

ACTION:
Install a revised master cylinder. Refer to Workshop Manual Section 206-06.


PART NUMBER PART NAME
5M6Z-2140-B Master Cylinder


WARRANTY STATUS:
Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage

OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
050805A 2005 Escape Hybrid Replace Master Cylinder (Do Not Use With 12650D, 2140A, 12651D70, 2000A) 1.6 Hrs.