Ford Escape problems

ford logo

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.

photo of Ford Escape car production

Social links

Ford Escape model years

ford escape 2023 photo
Escape 2023
Ford

44

5

49

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2022 photo
Escape 2022
Ford

185

8

28

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2021 photo
Escape 2021
Ford

270

9

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2020 photo
Escape 2020
Ford

1332

12

49

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2019 photo
Escape 2019
Ford

279

2

48

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2018 photo
Escape 2018
Ford

953

3

49

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2017 photo
Escape 2017
Ford

1659

2

48

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2016 photo
Escape 2016
Ford

711

2

50

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2015 photo
Escape 2015
Ford

764

7

49

1.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2014 photo
Escape 2014
Ford

1833

15

49

1.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2013 photo
Escape 2013
Ford

2616

17

48

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2012 photo
Escape 2012
Ford

572

2

50

1.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2011 photo
Escape 2011
Ford

1256

3

49

1.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2010 photo
Escape 2010
Ford

2082

5

49

1.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2009 photo
Escape 2009
Ford

1650

3

48

1.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2008 photo
Escape 2008
Ford

2371

5

46

1.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2007 photo
Escape 2007
Ford

391

4

50

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2006 photo
Escape 2006
Ford

716

5

46

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2005 photo
Escape 2005
Ford

1580

5

47

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2004 photo
Escape 2004
Ford

498

8

48

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2003 photo
Escape 2003
Ford

597

9

49

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2002 photo
Escape 2002
Ford

1077

10

50

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2001 photo
Escape 2001
Ford

1051

15

48

1.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford escape 2000 photo
Escape 2000
Ford

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Ford Escape

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

  1. Jacinto Berge 2025-11-12

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Although I have experienced issues with the fuel pumps, I am also disappointed with the quality of materials used in the control knobs and seat cushion materials. Additionally, there is a significant amount of road noise on the highway. However, I am confident that I will not be purchasing this car again and will instead consider a Santa Fe for my next vehicle.

  2. Larry Johns 2025-11-07

    Vehicle year: 2013

    The 2007 Mariner was a great car, but the new model Escapes do not live up to their predecessor. Unfortunately, my experience with the vehicle was plagued with issues, including warped brakes within the first week of ownership, a malfunctioning driver's side window in cold weather, a rear driver's side door that wouldn't latch in the cold, and a delayed transmission that required a computer reset. The final straw was the failure of the restraint control module, which triggered three warning lights (traction control, airbag, and hillside assist failure).

  3. Donnie Goldner 2025-11-04

    Vehicle year: 2002

    This was the best performing vehicle that I have EVER owned! Unfortunately, it did have to go into the shop for work over 12 times in one year (20,000 miles). However, I did get an impressive 30 mpg with it and even when it was fully loaded (floor to ceiling with slip 40/60 seats), I set the cruise at 72 and it never dropped below 70, even when going through the Rocky Mountains.

  4. Tyrique Schimmel 2025-11-01

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I recently had to get my car repaired due to a known design flaw that caused coolant to leak into a cylinder, leading to cracking the block and requiring a new engine. Unfortunately, the total bill was just under $8900 and not covered by warranty. It's frustrating to learn that this was a recall item on earlier models in the US and UK, but Ford had only added a sensor to let you know that the coolant was low, without actually fixing the problem. On top of that, my HID headlight equipped Titanium model needs a headlight replaced, which requires a two hour repair at $125/hour and a $189 bulb. Despite these issues, I'm hopeful that my new engine will last, especially since I still have 30 months left on the warranty. Overall, my experience with Ford has been disappointing, but I'm trying to stay positive.

  5. Colt Lockman 2025-10-27

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Today, I'm facing a dilemma with my car. It's a 2016 Ford Escape, a very basic and standard model that I use to drive my kids around and commute to work. Unfortunately, it had some major issues just 8 months after I bought it. I was driving on the interstate when suddenly the car stopped accelerating and started shaking violently. I was in the fast lane and couldn't move to the shoulder because of the peak traffic hours in Knoxville, TN. I immediately called the dealership, and they advised me to bring the car in. Once I turned off the engine, the car stopped acting crazy, and I was able to start it up again. I took it to Ford, but they couldn't find anything wrong with it. The next day, I was out with my kids after work, and the same thing happened again. The car was vibrating hard, throwing codes onto the screen, and wouldn't accelerate. I pulled over and recorded the whole incident. It was clear that something was wrong with the car. I took it directly to Ford, and they found out that it was a throttle position sensor. They replaced it, and the car ran fine until yesterday, almost a year later. The last thing that happened was the week of Thanksgiving. The car kept acting like the battery was dead, and I couldn't even get to the battery properly to jump it. Fortunately, some guys helped me while my children and I were stranded in a Weigles parking lot. They couldn't get to the ground post or negative post, only the positive post. They hooked it to the positive post and then used the negative one on anything else under the hood. The car started, and I took it home, parked it, and left it running. Then I shut it off, got in it, and drove it back out to get ice as we are taking a trip. (The last time the car malfunctioned, we were going to take it on a trip, but we decided it was too dangerous to use on a long road trip. It's pretty sad when you have a new car and can't take it out on a trip).I had a bit of car trouble yesterday. After turning off the car to get some ice, it wouldn't start again. Thankfully, some kind guys helped me jump-start it and I was able to get it home. Unfortunately, this morning it still wouldn't start, so I had to use an older car to get to work. It's funny how my husband's older truck has never given him any trouble, while my brand new car has been a bit of a lemon. We don't take it on long trips because we want to ensure the safety of ourselves and our children.

Latest positive Ford Escape car reviews

  1. Kadin Kuphal 2025-11-13

    Vehicle year: 2008

    My wife used to have a 2000 Mercedes SUV, a 430 model, which caused her nothing but problems. From the accelerator module to seat problems, sunroof getting stuck open during vacation, and the check engine light constantly on, it was a nightmare. One day, I decided that enough was enough and we went to the Ford dealer to trade this piece of junk. As soon as we walked into the showroom, I told her to pick any model she wanted, and she chose the Escape for its size and maneuverability in traffic. Now, it's important to note that my wife was not a Ford fan, having owned a 58' model which was junk, and she swore she'd never own another Ford. However, she is now in love with her Escape. It's reliable, fun to drive, and has incredible acceleration with the V6. In fact, I'm so impressed with it that I'm planning to take hers when we get a new car.

  2. Arturo Schuppe 2025-11-12

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I received this car as my first vehicle and I was thrilled to be getting something so nice for my first car. My parents wanted me to have something safe and reliable, and this SUV has been just that. I was a bit nervous when I bought it with 99,000 miles on it, as some reviews said it went downhill after 70,000 or so. However, it was a rental car before me, which means it must have been well taken care of with regular oil changes and inspections, which eased my nerves a little. It's been two years now and the car has 140,000 miles on it, but I still haven't had a single issue. Of course, I do take care of it with regular oil changes and inspections. Overall, I'm very happy with my car!

  3. Nick Renner 2025-11-11

    Vehicle year: 2002

    I'm so glad to hear that you've loved this car! It's great to know that maintenance has been minimal and that it has started first time, every time!

  4. Rick Bechtelar 2025-11-11

    Vehicle year: 2004

    I bought my car because I wanted something with a little more space when I had my child. It's perfect with kids and car seats, enough space for everyone to be comfortable. I've always trusted Ford because they make great cars. My car has been pretty reliable, with the exception of a few minor issues. The alternator went out recently, but that's to be expected with a car that has 165,000 miles on it. One thing to note is that Ford cars have a tendency to blow coils, which can be a bit of a hassle. However, I was lucky to have a mechanic in the family who was able to fix it for me. Despite a few design flaws, we still keep this car because it's a great family car and performs well in snow and inclement weather!

  5. Vicente Schumm 2025-11-11

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I purchased the 2014 Ford Escape Titanium AWD (2.0 Liter engine) and I must say, I really love the design of the vehicle and the interior. Contrary to some opinions, the fuel economy is actually quite good. I average about 24mpg combined (27-28 highway). The AWD system works really well in slippery conditions, and I was thoroughly impressed with it. Although, I did experience a few issues within the first couple of years of ownership, which were covered under warranty. Despite this, I was a bit concerned about the quality of the Ford parts. However, since then, I haven't had any issues and I'm now at 50k miles. I'm currently in need of new tires, which is pretty normal. Overall, I'm still very happy with my purchase and would recommend the Ford Escape to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle.

Are you having problems with your Ford Escape?

Add car complaint
Ford Escape photo