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
This vehicle is a great value! I recently purchased a Ford Escape S, which is the base model, but it still has plenty of features that make driving it a breeze. While the interior may be a bit busy and dated, the backup camera screen, although smaller than others, is still functional. The handling is solid and the SYNC for android phone is fantastic. The balance of front and rear seat room is perfect for a vehicle of this size, and the cargo space is adequate, especially considering the relatively low price of the vehicle. I was able to purchase a $25,800 vehicle for only $19,900 with discounts and negotiation, and I am extremely satisfied with the features and quality at that price. I plan to drive it for 150,000 miles over the next 6 years, and I hope to have minimal maintenance and repair issues. Overall, I am very happy with my decision to purchase the Ford Escape S!
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with you. I had been driving a Ford Focus for 6 years and although I loved it, I missed being in an SUV. Luckily, I found the perfect car for me! The Escape is an amazingly fun little SUV that handles well and looks and feels like a much more expensive vehicle. It's definitely one of the best driving cars I've ever owned. While the gas mileage isn't quite as good as my old Focus, the room and comfort in the Escape make it an easy trade off. I highly recommend it!
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Vehicle year: 2006
This is my first SUV and I am absolutely loving it! I spent two months researching and test driving various SUVs, but the Escape kept standing out to me. After owning it for just one week, I took it on a road trip from Florida to Michigan and put 4000 miles on it, driving on both flat highways and mountainous terrain. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it got approximately 26.5 mpg on the flats and 25.5 in the mountains. As someone who is 6 ft. tall, I can attest to the comfort of the leather seats and the great back support, which allowed me to drive for 12 hours straight (with rest stops every two hours) in one day without any trouble. Overall, I highly recommend the Escape XLT V6 auto to anyone in the market for an SUV.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I've been searching for a small SUV for quite some time now. I used to have a 2005 Ford Escape XLT with 128,000 miles on it, and it was an excellent vehicle that only required regular maintenance and no major repairs. After looking at what the current market has available, including Honda Pilot, Toyota, GMC, Dodge, and GM, and testing them out, I kept coming back to the Escape. My main concern was that there was no available V6, only the inline 1.6 or 2.0 with turbo. I was worried about having to always run high RPMs and wasn't sure about engine longevity. However, after driving the Titanium with optional 2.0 L, Package 301, and navigation system a few times, I was completely sold on the 4 cylinder. It has great power, the turbo is smooth, and the RPMs are surprisingly low. The ride is comfortable, and the new Sync3 is reasonably easy to learn. The fit and finish are also excellent. I opted for the standard 18As of November 19, 2019, I still love my Escape just as much as the day I purchased it. The only maintenance issue I have had to date was the replacement of the battery in October 2019. Other than that, there have been no issues or repairs. I am extremely happy with the flawless performance, as well as the condition of the exterior and interior. As of May 19, 2020, I have approximately 22,000 miles on the vehicle with no problems. Due to the stay-at-home requirements for the Covid-19 pandemic, the mileage has not increased significantly. However, my vehicle has maintained the same power and performance as it had when new. This is the first new car I have ever owned that I have not had one problem with. I purchased this car on October 31, 2015, and I am completely sold on the Escape. Even the tires have worn exceptionally well. I must say that I have not driven this vehicle off-road on sand, stone, or rough terrain. The vehicle is tight, with no rattles or leaks, and the interior has held up magnificently. As of November 20, 2020, I am happy to announce that even after 5 years since purchasing new, there has not been one instance of any repairs. With 26,000 miles on the vehicle, everything works as new. The vehicle is still tight, with no rattles, and I have only had scheduled maintenance, other than the aforementioned battery replacement. I have never owned a vehicle that I purchased new that did not require repairs after this amount of time or mileage. The vehicle is absolutely magnificent! I still give this 2.0L Escape 5 stars. As of May 19, 2021, I have 26,050 miles on the vehicle and have purchased a new set of Michelins. Other than oil changes, battery, and tires, I have had virtually no actual repairs or problems. The paint, interior, exterior fit, and electronics have all held up wonderfully. It has been an actual dream to own for almost 6 years. I can't say enough about the vehicle.Hello! As of May 24, 2022, my vehicle has reached an impressive 30,200 miles! Recently, I took a road trip from S.W. Florida to Wake Forest, NC area and I am happy to report that my Escape performed flawlessly. It still has excellent power and can reach speeds up to 90 mph without any issues. During the trip, I was able to average 24.5 miles per gallon using regular fuel. I have not experienced any malfunctions or repairs, other than the previously mentioned battery and tires. The comfort of the vehicle is still great and there is no wear on the interior or exterior. The paint quality is still excellent. I cannot emphasize enough how much I enjoy my 2016, 2.0L Escape Titanium and I would give it 5 outstanding stars! Thank you for reading.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I recently purchased an Escape, although I was initially hesitant. I had traded in my Dodge Quad Cab 4x4 Hemi to address concerns about the high cost of ownership, which my wife had brought to my attention. While it may not be as macho as my previous vehicle, I have found that it has significantly reduced my expenses, including payments, gas, and insurance. Additionally, I have found it to be a fun and enjoyable driving experience, and it is much easier to park. I even opted for a stick shift, but to my surprise, my wife also finds it fun to drive. I feel well-prepared for any potential increase in gas prices in the future.
Are you having problems with your Ford Escape?
Brock O'Kon 2025-09-12
Vehicle year: 2023
I recently rented a brand new 2023 Escape ST Line from Enterprise at San Francisco Airport. As an owner of a RAV4 Hybrid, I was curious to see how the Escape would compare. Despite being the newest refresh of the Escape, I chose it over an older Sportage and a Compass. While driving on the freeways, I noticed that the Escape struggled to get up hills. I later discovered that this Escape had a tiny 1.5 liter turbo 3 cylinder engine. I found it strange that such a small engine was used in a car that wasn't an economy car. I had to push my foot all the way down to make the delayed turbo kick in, and the angle of the accelerator pedal was a bit weird. Due to the steep hills of the Bay Area, the highway fuel economy was not as great as I had expected, only 25. The most frustrating issue was the auto start/stop feature. The engine kept kicking even when my foot was firmly on the brake pedal stopped at red lights, which was quite annoying. I didn't know how to turn it off, and it drove me crazy. After two days, I was ready to bring the car back and switch. I had a good excuse, though, as the rear power window got stuck in the down position. Maybe it was a bad switch? On a brand new car with only a few thousand miles on it! Another thing I noticed was that the skin on my finger would get pinched by the power window switches. I tried subsequent Hyundai Kona and Honda Passport rentals, but I could not pinch my finger. Also, I didn't like the odd graph-like fuel gauge. I didn't know what I was looking at. Stop reinventing things that don't need to be reinvented. Despite these issues, the Escape was fairly comfortable, rode well, and felt solid, not tinny like my reliable RAV4. It's a shame because it seems like two different groups designed this car. One group wanted to make it great, and another who wanted to destroy it.
Mauricio Borer 2025-09-12
Vehicle year: 2017
At 60,000 kilometers, the service engine light came on, and upon inspection, it was discovered that coolant was leaking into a cylinder, necessitating a new engine. Despite attempts to fix the issue, including rebuilding the transmission, installing a new transmission fluid pump, and a new accelerator pedal assembly, the problem persisted and even worsened. Regrettably, I have decided to part ways with this vehicle. It is advisable to exercise caution when considering Ecoboost engines. In hindsight, I should have conducted more research before making my purchase.
Deron Ondricka 2025-09-09
Vehicle year: 2023
The road noise is very loud, making it difficult to hold a conversation at a normal volume. The handling is quite stiff, which can make the car feel like a block of wood on wheels. Additionally, the suspension is rough, causing you to feel every bump and crack in the road. Unfortunately, the gas mileage is not great, as I only got 25.5 mpg on a 500 mile trip. On the plus side, it can connect to an iPhone!
Florian Leffler 2025-09-09
Vehicle year: 2013
I bought a 2013 Ford Escape 10 months ago and replaced the engine air filter with a k&n air filter. Unfortunately, the plastic housing around the metal screws is cracking and one of the screw housings was already stripped when I purchased it. Despite not over-tightening the screws, the service manager at Gaudin accused me of doing so, which I found frustrating. The Regional Customer Service Manager at Ford Motor Co., Nikki from Phoenix, is currently going by Gaudin's assessment, which means that Ford will not honour the warranty. The filter housing is made of thin plastic, which is deteriorating due to heat and vibrations. This could potentially cause accelerated engine failure in all 2013 and 2014 Escapes. As someone who has been purchasing Fords since 1955, I am disappointed with the service I have received.
Sterling Stracke 2025-09-09
Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I recently purchased a 2012 Ford Escape and unfortunately, I've had a few issues with it. The tailgate button stopped working after just 30 days, and even after replacing everything, it still doesn't work. Additionally, I noticed that it didn't have a cabin filter, and there was a leak on the passenger side under the glove box. The low resistor blower also stopped working, and the speaker wires were bad. When I reached out to the dealer about these issues, they simply stated that it was an 'as is' sale. Despite this setback, I was able to fix everything myself except for the tailgate. Can you help me out with that? Thank you so much for your time and assistance!