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: 2020
After a year, I still love this car. I recently rented a competitor's SUV for a trip, but there was no question that my Escape is superior. It's been trouble-free and still looks like new.
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Vehicle year: 2013
The 2013 Ford Escape I had was an amazing vehicle. I drove over 70K miles on it in three years, including two cross-country trips, and it never let me down. Whether I was driving in snow, rain, mountains, or on the highway, I always felt safe and in control. The ECO Boost (turbo) provided plenty of acceleration, and I was able to get great gas mileage, usually around 30 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. My wife, who is a small woman, also loved the car and found it easy to control and navigate. We were so happy with it that we decided to trade it in and buy a 2016 Escape :)
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Vehicle year: 2005
This is my wife's daily driver, which we bought new in April 2005. It has 70k miles and runs like new again after repairing damage to the front suspension (wheel bearings and sway bar links) caused by the harsh upstate WNY roads at 58k. Although we were disappointed that the Uni joints failed shortly afterwards (61k), along with the rear wiper (63k), and ABS sensors and rear shocks (67k) - which cost us a lot of money - it's great in the snow and gets pretty good gas mileage with the 2.3L 4 cyl 5-spd manual. We replaced the original General tires with Goodyear Fortera SilentArmors at 41k, though we probably could have gotten 4k-10k more out of the Generals (which weren't anywhere near as bad/noisy as the reviewers claim the Continental Contitracs are).
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Vehicle year: 2002
I bought my vehicle from Good Sam Motors in Ocala back in 2012. At the time, I wasn't sure if it would last, but it has definitely exceeded my expectations! With over 250,000 miles on it, I still have to do some maintenance from time to time, but nothing major. The handling of this vehicle is excellent, and the drivetrain is still going strong. I'm particularly impressed with the Ford 3.0 engine - it's very rugged and holds up well. I'm a firm believer in frequent oil changes and always add a Lucas or STP oil treatment with each change. Even in bad weather, this 2002 vehicle handles great. Overall, I have no complaints with my vehicle and its 250,000 miles. Thank you, Vito M!
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Vehicle year: 2010
It's great to hear that this car is your favorite! Even after 7 years and 150000 miles, it still looks and runs great. It's a shame that Ford decided to make the 3rd Gen a bloated teeny bopper hatch back instead of a proper SUV like this one.
Are you having problems with your Ford Escape?
Kay Kautzer 2025-04-20
Vehicle year: 2022
I've had the car for a week and a half now and overall it's a pretty SUV. I particularly love the sunroof and have been pleased with the fuel efficiency, averaging 36 mpg. However, I have noticed a few issues that have been a bit frustrating. The fake leather material seems to attract stains easily, and I had to use leather wipes to remove a blue stain caused by my jeans. Additionally, there are a few rattling noises, including one from the B&O subwoofer in the trunk, which unfortunately makes it difficult to listen to music at any volume. I've also noticed some tapping and clunking noises when driving over bumps, and the passenger door has been a bit tricky to close. The touchscreen and CarPlay system have been a bit slow to respond, which can be frustrating. I'm planning to take it to the dealership next week to see if they can address these issues. Overall, I'm a bit disappointed given the wait time for the car, but I'm hopeful that these issues can be resolved.
Alejandrin Emard 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased a 2014 Ford Escape new and unfortunately experienced a transmission failure at 77k miles, just outside of the powertrain warranty's coverage of 60k miles. Despite the owners manual calling for zero maintenance until 150k miles, I understand that unexpected issues can arise. I reached out to Ford to explore options for assistance with the costs of the replacement transmission, but unfortunately, they were unable to provide any support. While the cost of the replacement transmission was significant at $5,900 with tax and labor, I remain confident in the overall quality of the vehicle. I hope that my experience can serve as a cautionary tale for others, but I still believe that the Ford Escape is a reliable and well-made vehicle overall.
Newton Thompson 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2018
Hey there! I wanted to let you know that there's a design flaw in this engine that you should be aware of. After doing some research, I found that the head gasket tends to blow between Cyls 1 and 2, which can cause coolant to leak into the oil and ultimately lead to engine failure. Unfortunately, this issue is pretty common and the factory is currently backordered for 2 months on replacement engines. Just wanted to give you a heads up!
Raphael Douglas 2025-04-13
Vehicle year: 2002
Check out the consumer complaints section on NHTSA.gov for some important information about this car. You'll find 106 other owners like me who have had multiple experiences with stalling while heading downhill or on the freeway. During these incidents, we lose steering and most of our braking, which can be quite frightening. It's important to be aware of these issues, as crash tests and packaging can be deceiving. Additionally, the car tends to surge frequently, almost as if the cruise control is on.
Dwight Jacobi 2025-04-05
Vehicle year: 2009
Just to be transparent, I am the second or third owner of this vehicle and it's been over 10 years since it was manufactured. Unfortunately, within the first year of purchasing this certified used vehicle from the dealership in 2016, I had to replace three TPMS sensors, replace the capless fuel funnel neck, and have the throttle body checked out. I was unaware of an open extended warranty for the throttle body, which I believe was the dealership's oversight. Over the 4.5 years that I've owned this vehicle, I've had to replace the driver side rear signal light multiple times, replace the ABS control module, ignition switch module, replace the throttle body, and rebuild the transmission, all before reaching 100,000 miles. Routine maintenance like brakes and tires have also been necessary. Although it's a 4-cylinder vehicle, its gas mileage is not as good as older vehicles and even a Tahoe. When compared to my almost 20-year-old Honda CRV, which didn't cost nearly as much to own, I cannot recommend the Ford Escape, especially the 2009 model year. It has been a bit of a money pit and a headache. I plan to sell it as soon as I'm able to do so.