Ford Escape problems
The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year. The first Ford SUV derived from a car platform, the Escape fell below the Ford Explorer in size; the Escape is currently sized between the Ford EcoSport and Ford Edge. The 2004 Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid-electric vehicle from Ford, and the first hybrid produced as an SUV.
The first two generations of the Escape used the Ford CD2 platform (jointly developed with Mazda), leading to the release of the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner; as with the Escape, both the Tribute and Mariner were marketed in North America. In Europe, the Escape was initially branded as the Ford Maverick from 2001 to 2008 (replacing a Nissan-produced SUV).
Under the mid-2000s "One Ford" globalization strategy, the third and fourth-generation designs of the Escape have been unified with the Ford Kuga, designed by Ford of Europe. Sharing a common body and chassis underpinnings (and several engines), the Escape and Kuga are manufactured in their home markets. As with previous generations, the fourth-generation Escape is offered with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Outside of North America, the Ford Escape is marketed in Australia, China, and Taiwan.
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Ford Escape model years
Common Ford Escape problems
The Ford Escape is a popular compact SUV known for its comfortable seating, useful cargo space, and smooth ride. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are three of the most common issues reported by Ford Escape owners.
- Ignition Misfires: This problem has been reported by 435 Ford Escape owners. Ignition misfires in the Escape typically occur due to a faulty ignition coil, which tends to go bad after an average of 129,000 miles.
- Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving: This issue has been reported by 387 Ford Escape owners. The check engine light may come on, accompanied by hesitation or stumbling while driving, which can be particularly concerning at high speeds. This problem could be caused by a damaged EGR valve, which typically requires replacement at an average cost of $151 to $178.
- Internal Transfer Case Problems on Four-Wheel-Drive Models: This issue has been reported by 217 Ford Escape owners. The internal transfer case in some four-wheel-drive Escape models can become damaged from regular use, causing a howling noise that may progress to a clicking sound at higher speeds. While changing the transfer case fluid can help, many owners have had to replace the entire unit, particularly after 125,000 miles of regular four-wheel-drive system use.
These common problems affect the Ford Escape's reliability, with the SUV earning a good reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal.
It is important to note that some model years of the Ford Escape, such as 2005, 2008, 2009, 2013, and 2014, have received more owner complaints than others.
In summary, the Ford Escape has common problems such as ignition misfires, check engine light and hesitation while driving, and internal transfer case issues on four-wheel-drive models. These problems can impact the SUV's reliability and require costly repairs. However, with regular maintenance and careful driving, a Ford Escape can last for 200,000 miles or more.
What are the bad years of the Ford Escape?
A: Buyers should avoid the 2013, 2014, and 2008 Ford Escape models. These years are known for significant reliability issues, with the 2013 and 2014 models having serious engine and transmission problems and the 2008 model experiencing the most complaints regarding transmission and steering system issues.
What are the cons of a Ford Escape?
The Escape is a competitive small SUV, but the regular version is unreliable and not recommended. The turbo three-cylinder got 26 mpg overall in our tests. It provides sufficient oomph but vibrates at low engine speeds and has a tinny sound.
What year did Ford Escape have transmission problems?
Transmission issues are most common in Ford Escapes manufactured between 2014 and 2008, according to owner complaints on websites like carcomplaints.com and Reddit. Transmission issues were more common in vehicles manufactured between 2006 and 2009, though.
What is the reliability of Ford Escape?
The redesigned 2023 Ford Escape earned a Quality & Reliability score of 81 out of 100 from J.D. Power. This model has a consumer rating of 80 out of 100 and ranks seventh in the compact SUV category. Your choice of an EcoBoost, hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain option can affect reliability.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Escape years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Escape cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Escape model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Escape model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Escape years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Escape car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Escape , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Escape vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Escape model years
A total of 761 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Escape model years
There were a total of 508 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Escape model years
There were a total of 665 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Escape model years
There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 24492 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Escape . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Escape vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: 1FMCU0HX3DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My 2013 Ford Escape has had a very large coolant leak more than 10 months ago and the mechanics have not been able to repair it, they have changed hoses and the problem continues.
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- VIN: 1FMCU9GX3DU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This is follow up to my complaint that I made last week. The NHTSA issue number is 11624016. I have found numerous similar complaints of 2013 ford escape steering freezing up and malfunctioning at the this link: [XXX] and submit it for NHTSA follow up. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- VIN: 1FMCU0J94DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Defective REARVIEW CAMERA. Came upside down and go blank or distorted. Safety Hazard
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- VIN: 1FMCU0F72DU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Coolant leak and car stalling in the middle of the road. Very dangerous and scary
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-07
- VIN: 1FMCU9GX3DU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: On Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 I started my 2013 Ford Escape, put it in reverse and the steering froze and I could not turn the steering wheel. On Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 I took it to the mechanic and he had the same thing happen and diagnostic indicated thatthe power steering needed replacement. I contacted Ford Motor Company and they stated that my VIN was not included in their recall of the 2013 Ford Escapes. They declined to share with me other similar complaints. I have since learned from a Ford escape owners page that the are many complaints by owners and can't get any help from Ford. I would liked the NHTSA to investigate and report on how may owners are being denied inclusion in the 2013 Ford Escape steering recall.
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-07
- VIN: 1FMCU0GX3DU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: This is the second time that I have had issues with a coolant leak leeching onto my engine. The coolant leaks out and causes toxic fumes in the cabin that have repeatedly caused me and my passengers severe damage to our mucus membranes resulting in coughing and difficulty breathing. I have literally had to drive with my windows down in the cold autumn air because I cannot breathe in my vehicle. There has been no warning or check engine light that has come on at all in either of these experiences. It has been my mere experience of health issues that has resulted in me needing to bring the vehicle in. As of right now there has been no recalls but evidently this has been a recurring issue and problem per my local mechanic as well as the forums that I find online. This is a huge issue that needs to be addressed to Ford customers.
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMCU0GX5DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car had the shifter bushing done 4 times total 3 of which were done back to back a month from each other so that’s 4 total this should not be happening so close together and back to back like this also there is a problem with electric and my car went on fire inside where u plug the phone charger in and I also have a problem with it overheating and there are about 17 different recalls for my particular make and model vehicle I feel this car is a severe safety issue and I need to speak with someone I was sold a lemon it’s not right that they will not replace the vehicle now it’s something I would like to see if u could assist me in looking into if there are any options they may have done the recalls but like the shifter bushing they probably have to all be redone as there is a significant issue with the safety of myself and possibly others on the road in the event something happens like me driving and it going on fire that’s definitely not safe plz contact me regarding this matter @ 2016007439
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-03
- VIN: 1FMCU9HX2DU
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The power steering stopped working as driving it. Dashboard message read "steering assist fault service" Unable to steering the vehicle properly which could have caused an accident. No warnings prior to the issue.
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-29
- VIN: 1FMCU0HXXDU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Barrings in transmission been failure since I've bought the truck they had a recall on the transmission now I don't see the recall at ford windshield motor just stop working I've only had the car a year
Ford Escape 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1FMCU0EG1BK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I lose my power steering. First time it happened I had turned the steering wheel to its’ fullest extent, then lost the power steering.when I turn off the engine and restart it, the power returns. This has happened 4-5 times in the past 4-5 years… until today. Today it happened 4 times, just with normal turns (no hard banked turns) - again, I had to turn off the engine, then start it, with hopes that it reset itself. I’m 71, I CAN drive it without power steering, but I believe it’s dangerous and a safety hazard. Is my 2011 Ford Escape on a list for a replacement part? Thank you.
Ford Escape 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1FMCU9BZ2MU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Left front door check arm welds broken away (same as SMS 50150). Popping sound when door is used. Driver door difficult to open posing a danger.
Ford Escape 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1FMCU0J94HU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My child and I were driving in the car when it suddenly overhead to extreme temperatures. I've only had this car 2 years, come to find out there's a faulty design to the engine cylinders causing coolant to seep in to the engine, also causing the head gasket to blow. This is ford's fault and there's currently class action lawsuits because this can cause the engine to combust, incredibly dangerous. There needs to be recalls
Ford Escape 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1FMCU0GD2HU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Coolant leaked into the engine according to McCarthy Ford. Located in North Little Rock, AR. The vehicle started smoking pulling out of the garage.
Ford Escape 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1FMCU0F79EU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NHTSA Recall Number 16V643 After 3 attempts in 2 years, it is become evidential that Ford dealers are deliberately NOT willing to complete this recall for customer, probably because it takes too much time. [XXX]: rear left door latch failed. Call Robinson Brothers Ford, 11455 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, was told there is no parts, so I had to replace it by myself using part bought from Amazon. 1st attempt: 23-Feb-2023 to 27-Feb-2023 at Robinson Brothers Ford, 11455 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Called weeks in advance in order to complete all recalls, and called few days earlier to confirm door latch, and was told they have spare parts so I left the car there. All recalls were completed except 16V643, and I was told they had no spare parts by shop representative. Register cell phone number with them for spare parts update and NEVER receive any update till now. 20-Oct-2024: front left door latch failed. 2nd attempt: on 21-Oct-2024 call AutoNation Ford Katy, 20777 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77450, the lady (Christina) told me they have no spare parts. 22-Oct-2024: once again, I replace the door latch by myself using spare parts bought from Amazon. 3rd attempt: on 23-Oct-2024: I drove by AutoNation Ford Katy, 20777 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77450, the exact the same shop I called 2 days ago, the service representative (Austin) check the inventory, found 1 set of spare parts, and promised me recall can be completed in 24 to 48 hours. When I pick up the car 50 hours later, the job is NOT even started for one door. As such, I officially file this claim to urge NHTSA to investigate what is the percentage completion for this recall for Ford? It takes me 2-3 hours to replace 1 door latch, that may be takes too time for dealer and therefore they chose to put the safety of customer at the lowest priority, and bet on customer running out of patience to replace by themselves, just like I have done, TWICE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Escape 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1FMCU9J96HU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage it was discovered that large amounts of oil had leaked from engine onto the garage floor. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the engine had been damaged due to coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders. The contact was advised that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 123,000.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Escape
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 156 recalls for different components of the Ford Escape.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Escape 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2023-2024 Escape, 2024 Mustang, and 2025 Explorer vehicles. The fuel injectors may have been assembled without O-ring support discs, which can result in a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S54.
- Model: Ford Escape 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-14
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Escape two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control. The cruise control radar module was misaligned during production.
- Consequence: Misalignment of the radar module can result in the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) misclassifying an overhead object as an object in the vehicle's path, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly slow and/or stop. Other safety systems that depend on the radar model (Pre-Collision Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Auto Emergency Braking) could have diminished or lost function. These conditions increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will adjust the angle of the radar module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S39.
- Model: Ford Escape 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
- Model: Ford Escape 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
- Model: Ford Escape 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
Latest negative Ford Escape car reviews
Latest positive Ford Escape car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
I absolutely love this SUV! It has exceeded my expectations with its impressive acceleration and sporty handling. The Escape is definitely the best value in its class, and I did a lot of comparison shopping to come to that conclusion. The latest technology and creature comforts make it even better. Even though I was hesitant to switch to an SUV, I don't miss the driving experience of my Acura at all when I'm in the Escape. Update: It's now 2021 and we still adore our Escape. We have had no issues with its flawless performance. I would definitely consider buying another Ford, maybe even an electric one next time!
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Vehicle year: 2019
The 2019 Titanium 2.0 Turbo AWD Escape wasn't on my radar until last year when I was shopping for a smaller car for my stepson. Although he ended up with the small car, I was intrigued by the 2017 Escape that had just come in from a test drive. I was blown away by the sporty drive and decided to do some research. After driving five different small SUVs, I found that the Escape, originally the German-built KUGA brought to the USA in 2013, was the clear winner in terms of drive and quality. Despite some negative reviews, I found the quality to be excellent, and I particularly liked the dash layout, including the cluster, radio, and screen setup, as well as the big, well-placed air vents that cool down the car quickly. I average 23mpg zipping around town, including short off and on freeway ramps, and I haven't taken a road trip yet. If you compare that to any other AWD SUV in the same range of 245 HP, that's about what you get. It's worth it to me to have the acceleration available when I need it, as I find it often safer to have the ability to speed up to merge or avoid a situation than just hope others avoid me. I mostly drive in regular mode but drop to sport mode on some freeway ramps with the big circular entrance ramp and also if slogging in slow freeway traffic 40-55 to bring the RPM from 1200 to 1800-2000 for better response. Thankfully, you can turn off the annoying stop/start 'feature' that stops the engine at every stop light. It works, I just don't like it, and if you are trying to cool down or heat up the car, you won't like it either. I have read that other vehicles don't allow you to turn it off. I understand the totally redesigned Escape comes out soon.I hope everything works out for you. I'm glad I was able to get mine with the current big discounts off MSRP. I don't think you can find a better vehicle for the price, or anything close to it that would cost many thousands more.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I've been eyeing the Escape for a few years now, but I've always been hesitant due to the reviews. However, this year I decided to take another look. Since I get a new vehicle for business every year, I've had plenty of experience with the competition. I found that for $50K, you don't even get real leather in a Touareg. A $35K Wrangler is the real deal, but it rides harshly with bad road manners and the backseat is just for show. The Nissan's are a bit old-fashioned and expensive, while Hyundai's are no longer cheap or fuel-efficient. I looked at everything in the SUV market from $20-$60K, and everything negative I read about the Escape is even worse in cars that cost much more. The 2011 model has a fantastic interior, and the Limited version has everything you could possibly want.
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Vehicle year: 2008
In May 2, 2013, my 2008 vehicle was diagnosed with a transmission fluid leak from the condenser. Despite being 8 months out of warranty, I am still 10,000 miles under it. Although the repair cost ranges from $300 to $800, I am confident that this issue will be resolved. To get reimbursed for this problem, a recall must be published. To achieve this, approximately 150,000 complaints must be filed through Ford (1-888-392-3673) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (888-327-4236). Each call takes only 5-10 minutes, and we are one step closer to having a recall issued.
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Vehicle year: 2022
Congratulations on your new 2022 Ford Escape SE Hybrid! It's great to hear that you're enjoying it so much. The interior design and features sound fantastic, and it's impressive that you were able to get 42 MPG on your trip from NY to NC. That's definitely saving you a lot of money on gas! Thank you for recommending this vehicle, and for letting us know that Ford also offers the Edge in a hybrid model for those who need a slightly larger SUV.
Are you having problems with your Ford Escape?
Santos Ebert 2025-01-09
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2008 Escape that I bought used a year ago. The transmission pump had already been replaced before I bought it, which was a relief. While it's not the most comfortable ride on the highway (my butt usually goes numb), I find it really easy to drive in the city. The driver's seat is powered, which helps me gain some extra height since I'm only 5'6 and sometimes have trouble seeing over the steering wheel in larger vehicles. The controls are easy to figure out and are large enough for my fingers to handle. While this version doesn't have Ford Sync like newer vehicles, it does have an audio jack. In town, the handling is a breeze, but at higher speeds, it can be a bit of a challenge. However, the stability control really helps out. Thanks for listening!
Napoleon Cronin 2025-01-08
Vehicle year: 2011
My wife purchased this car brand new in 2011. It worked great for three years and one month. Unfortunately, three weeks after our three-year warranty expired, the back left window regulator went out. Despite Ford refusing to replace it, we had it replaced for $200. One month later, the back right window regulator went out, followed by the AC. Recently, the sunroof stopped opening and closing. We have owned this car for four and a half years and have had to get more things fixed than any car I have ever owned. While the car looks nice and drives fine in my opinion, the cost of owning it is ridiculous. I am disappointed with my experience and will not be purchasing an Escape or any Ford vehicle again.
Morton Denesik 2025-01-08
Vehicle year: 2017
The Escape had many updates for 2017. The new exterior styling is a big improvement over previous years. I really enjoy the wicked quick acceleration of the 2.0 ecoboost engine, and the Sony sound system sounds awesome. However, after one month of ownership, the windshield developed a crack on the interior layer of the windshield. Nothing hit the window. I stopped at the Ford dealership to have the manager look at the glass, and he agreed that the window should be replaced under warranty. The service department took pictures of the cracked windshield to send to Ford's warranty department for approval. Ford had me return to the dealer two more times because they weren't satisfied with the pictures that the service department took, plus they wanted them to run a test on the glass to check the exterior for chips, dings, and etc. I think they were trying their hardest to find a reason to deny the warranty claim. Despite these issues, the factory Michelin tires seem to be holding up well; however, the tread pattern isn't the best for snow and ice. The 4wd system really struggled on the snowy hills with the factory tires. I recommend a set of Michelin IceX tires for winter driving because the added traction is needed in the Northeast. Additionally, the entry/exit function of the Titanium's driver seat is a nice option when it works. Although, a few times the seat didn't move forward when the Escape is started, and the dealers can't find a fix for the occasional glitches. Lastly, a protective panel underneath the vehicle came loose and had to be tightened. It rattled like crazy at speeds between 35-55mph. Unfortunately, the Escape has developed a stalling problem in recent weeks. It stalled in reverse as I was backing out of my driveway two weeks ago, and a couple days ago it stalled while in drive as I was pulling out of a parking space at Walmart. The mechanics couldn't find the cause for the reverse stall that happened.The Escape is scheduled to go back to the service department tomorrow to have the stalling situation looked at again. Although the stalling has only occurred at slow speeds, it is concerning and I hope it can be resolved before it becomes a bigger issue. Unfortunately, I have also experienced some issues with SYNC 3 and the backup camera software, which can be frustrating at times. The radio has also switched on its own a few times. Despite these issues, I am hopeful that the Ford engineering department will find a solution soon. I have taken the Escape to the dealer several times, but they have been unable to find a permanent fix. I am disappointed with the situation, but I remain optimistic that it will be resolved. Update: After owning this Escape for 11 months, I have unfortunately experienced several issues with the vehicle. Although the SYNC 3 system has been updated, it still occasionally acts up. The vehicle has also stalled several times, which is concerning. However, I was able to catch the transmission issue on video and the dealership was able to address it. While I have had some negative experiences with this vehicle, I remain hopeful that these issues will be resolved. Update: 6/28/18 Unfortunately, I continue to experience issues with this vehicle.This Escape has been to Ford dealerships for repairs six times since the end of September. It has had a new ignition coil and spark plug replaced in September. In October the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) was replaced. Since mid-December, it has been at the dealership because there is antifreeze in number 1 cylinder. I am told that I will not have my Escape back until mid-January to early February. The mechanic believes the head gasket is in need of replacement, and in the worst case, the whole engine. However, I am happy to report that the Escape has been running smoothly since the head was replaced in January. Despite the cosmetic damage caused by a deer in February, the Escape held up better than expected. While I cannot recommend purchasing another Escape or Ford product, I am pleased to say that the Escape has had no issues since my last update on 1/5/20.
Ryan Fadel 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2004
My mom purchased this SUV in October 2012, and I have been driving it daily since September 2014. It had 113,000 miles on it and came with almost all maintenance reports, indicating that it was very well maintained. During the first year of ownership, it handled very well, rode very nicely, had a lot of power, and got good gas mileage (25 MPG combined). After about 13 months, it started having some normal issues, such as needing tie rods, tires, and spark plugs. However, some unexpected issues also arose, such as vacuum leaks, exhaust falling off the car, and needing a seal on the transfer case replaced. Unfortunately, the car died in September 2014, and I have been driving the Escape almost daily since then. In that time, it has needed struts as well as two new tires, which are normal things to wear on a car. However, it has also needed some not-so-normal repairs, such as a power steering pump replacement (twice), new brake lines, new front calipers, a new master cylinder, more vacuum leaks, exhaust leaks, ball joints, and a wheel bearing. Currently, the car has 153,954 miles on it and is experiencing an extremely rough idle, a plastic melting smell that will literally burn your eyes, and stalling. While I suspect it's a vacuum leak, my mom thinks the engine is blown. Regardless, we have decided not to sink any more money into it, as the transmission was also on its way out.
Brendon Mosciski 2025-01-04
Vehicle year: 2008
Between my last oil change/inspection at the dealership (where everything looked good), and the one this week, my car developed an oil leak. Unfortunately, there was no oil on my driveway to tip me off. The leakage was only seen when the car was on the lift, and oil was being sprayed on the underside. Since the source of the leak was not readily obvious, I had a dye test done. When the car was seen yesterday, quite a bit of oil had leaked out. The test points to a blown head gasket. Aside from the leak, I had absolutely no indication that there was a problem: no heavy exhaust, no idiot lights on. The bright side is that it was caught before I broke down, killed the engine, etc. I'm posting this mainly to vent. One thing is for absolute sure: I will never, ever buy another Ford.