Ford Escape hybrid 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 hybrid model years
Common Ford Escape hybrid problems
The Ford Escape Hybrid has been subject to various complaints from owners over the years, with the worst model years being 2006 and 2014. The most common problems reported for the Ford Escape Hybrid are steering issues, engine failure, and transmission failure.
- Catastrophic Engine Failure: The 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid has the highest number of complaints for catastrophic engine failure, with an average cost to fix of $5,600 and an average mileage of 111,000 mi.
- Rear Differential Failure: The 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid also has the highest number of complaints for rear differential failure, with an average cost to fix of $3,100 and an average mileage of 88,000 mi.
- Transmission Failure: The 2006 and 2014 Ford Escape models have the most complaints for transmission failure, with an average cost to fix of $3,100 and $4,200, respectively. The average mileage for transmission failure in the 2006 model is 84,000 mi, while the 2014 model has an average mileage of 84,000 mi.
- Stopped Working: The 2014 Ford Escape has the most complaints for the car stopping while driving, with an average cost to fix of $4,200 and an average mileage of 84,000 mi.
- Internal Transfer Case Problem: The 4WD models of the Ford Escape have reported internal transfer case problems, which can be very expensive to fix.
- Excessive Wheel Well/Shock Tower Rust: The 2005 Ford Escape has the highest number of complaints for excessive wheel well/shock tower rust.
- Brake Failure: The 2005 Ford Escape has the highest number of complaints for brake failure.
- Regen Brakes Disabled: The 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid has the highest number of complaints for regen brakes disabled.
- Excessive Rusting: The 2005 Ford Escape has the highest number of complaints for excessive rusting.
These problems have been reported by owners of the Ford Escape Hybrid, with some requiring significant repairs and expenses. It is essential to consider these issues when purchasing a pre-owned Ford Escape Hybrid.
What are the problems with the Ford Escape hybrid?
The Ford hybrid engine problems caused a recall in July 2022 of about 100,000 model year 2020-2022 Ford Escape, 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair and 2022 Ford Maverick hybrid vehicles. At that time, Ford was aware of at least 23 engine compartment fires, but since the recall, another three fires have been reported.
Are Ford Escape hybrids good cars?
The 2024 Ford Escape Hybrid is more attractive than ever thanks to a recent styling and tech update. It may not be the flashiest or most exciting hybrid SUV on the road, but excellent fuel economy and a long list of standard features make the Escape Hybrid an appealing option.
How long will a Ford Escape hybrid battery last?
Hybrid Battery Lifespan: The Basics
Average Lifespan: Hybrid batteries typically have a lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Warranty Coverage: Most hybrid car manufacturers offer warranties that cover the hybrid battery for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles.
What is the problem with the Ford 2.5 hybrid engine?
The problems with the Ford 2.5L hybrid engine primarily stem from manufacturing errors. These issues can lead to engine failures, which are often characterized by breaches of the oil pans or engine blocks. In the event of such an engine failure, engine oil or fuel vapors could be released into the engine compartment.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Escape hybrid years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Escape hybrid cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Escape hybrid model years:
- Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Ford Escape hybrid 2005
- Ford Escape hybrid 2006
- Ford Escape hybrid 2007
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Escape hybrid model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Escape hybrid years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Escape hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Escape hybrid , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Escape hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Escape hybrid model years
A total of 191 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 46 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 135 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 hybrid model years
There were a total of 6 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 7290 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Escape hybrid . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Escape hybrid vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1FMCU5K36AK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid. The contact stated after the vehicle was started, and still in park (P) in his driveway, the steering wheel was not turning and seemed to be locked. The contact stated the "Power Steering Assist" warning light was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and advised the contact that NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering) had been completed in 2014 and that he would have to pay to have the Electronic Power Steering Assist repaired. The contact stated that he was the second owner. The failure mileage was approximately 207,000.
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1FMCU9EG1AK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving to work to my 911 work center, my car started beeping soon as I turned into the parking lot. My steering wheel was INCREDIBLY tight so thankfully I was already in the parking lot and was able to get to a parking spot. I looked down and my dash said "Power Steering Assist Fault" I looked everything up and there is a recall for this from 2008-2011 models I believe but my VIN isn't under that coverage
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1FMCU9DG5AK
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Driving approx. 70 miles/hr. And I lost power steering!!
Ford Escape hybrid 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1FMCU96HX6K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Like so many others, I was making a sharp right turn when the vehicle stopped without warning causing cars behind me to slam on their brakes to avoid a chain rear end collision event on a busy intersection. Another driver offered help and got it restarted but the power steering stopped functioning. He pulled it off the road and I then had to drive it home. The light came on after saying "power steering service" and a wrench light. There were no codes to be read and I have been unable to get a straight answer from mechanics. The last said I need the power steering module and the rack and pinion. I finally got him to give me the specific part numbers, both of which are DISCONTINUED. Last week, I told another mechanic the problems and parts I needed and he gave me a total guestimate under $2000, so I decided to go with them and they ordered the parts. When I looked at the estimate, they did not match the part numbers I had been given, and I just found out they didnt include the module because it's discontinued. I cancelled the work. I have no options left that I can afford. THIS PROBLEM IS PERVASIVE IN THESE FORD ESCAPE MODELS AND YEARS, yet they haven't recalled any before 2008. This needs to be addressed because Ive also had the intermittent engine shutdown on the road saying "STOP NOW". Luckily, no accidents or injuries yet, but I wouldn't trust this to travel beyond my area. Shame on Ford!
Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1FMCU93Z48K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality and excessive effort was needed to turn the steering wheel. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with a defective power steering column. The contact was informed that the steering column needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was also notified of the failure and the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was given the same diagnosis as the independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic for a tire rotation, and the contact was informed that the subframe was rusted. In addition, the contact stated that upon further inspection at the same local independent mechanic during another routine tire rotation, it was noticed that the failure had worsened. The local dealer was contacted; however, the contact was advised that rust was a category that was not inspected or repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000. The VIN was not available.
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 1FMCU0E76AK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: It says my car is not under the recall for the power steering assit failure but my car is doing exactly what the recall is for there is no power steering and has a message that let's us know power steering assist failure
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-29
- VIN: 1FMCU0DG6AK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving, the brakes have no pressure. When starting the vehicle, the brakes go all the way to the floor. I took my car to several difference garages, and they determined the brake booster was the issue. No repair has been done, but the brakes go all the way to the floor and is difficult to stop. The 2nd issue is after the local Ford dealership performed work on the fuel system for a recall, the vehicle will sputter after refueling. This will cause the vehicle to almost shut off at a stop. I called the dealership, but they won't reexamine the recall. If I fill my tank up when I refuel, the fumes of the gas smell so badly you can't drive for a day after.
Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 1FMCU93178K
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVE TO COLLEGE AND STOPPED FOR GAS. SHE CALLED ME SAYING THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILURE. BUT SHE HAD NOT LOST POWER STEERING. SHE CALLED ME A FEW HOURS LATER SAYING SHE COULD NOT TURN HER STEERING WHEEL TO GET TURNED AROUND TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL. I CAME TO ASSIST HER AND SURE ENOUGH THE STEERING WAS VERY HARD TO TURN, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WAS BLINK ON THE DASH AND THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. I FINALLY GOT THE CAR TURNED AROUND AND STARTED BACK TO OUR MECHANIAC. SHE FOLLOWED BEHIND. I FOUND THE SLOWER I WOULD GO THE HARDER IT BECAME TO STEER. I DID A SOLID 50-55 MPH ALL THE WAY THERE BUT COULD FEEL THE TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL. WE MADE IT TO THE GARAGE. THE MECHANIC CALLED THE NEXT DAY AND SAID HE COULDN'T GET IT TO START AND WE NEEDED TO TAKE TO A FORD DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE CAR SCANNED. WE CALLED THE FORD DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T GET TO IT FOR ANOTHER 2-3 WEEKS AND REFERRED US TO A COMPANY IN A 4-5 HOUR AWAY TO GET A USED PART AND COME TO US TO FIX. WE RESEARCHED IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS AND FOUND 14S05. SINCE WE ARE THE SECOND OWNER OF THE CAR AND NEVER WERE NOTIFIED OF A RECALL OR WERE TOLD ABOUT A CURRENT RECALL AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE, WE STARTED TO SEARCH IF THE RECALL HAD BEEN FIXED BY THE FIRST OWNER (OUT OF POCKET) OR THROUGH THE RECALL. PLEASE ANY INFORMATION AND/OR GUIDANCE WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 1FMCU0DGXAK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle downshifted unexpectedly. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 214,000.
Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- VIN: 1FMCU59H98K
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tire size: P235/70 R16 Since April, 2024 this tire started inflated every week. After 2-3 weeks trial I decided to take it to the tire shop, after they tested it, no error was detected. Then they told me that technically this tire is defected. It costed me $75-90.00 bucks just for the diagnostics. At that point, I did not have a choice but to buy a new tire. The new tire cost me another $140.00+, before down time and a waste of energy. Time is everything in this country. Thank you,
Ford Escape hybrid 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 1FMCU03Z17K
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear frame rails rotting thru from the inside out, causing potential suspension issues
Ford Escape hybrid 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 1FMCU93168K
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Power Steering Assist Fault," message displayed; after which, the driver became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: 1FMCU0DG7AK
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle continuously pulled to the right, requiring the driver to make constant corrections. Upon visual inspection of the vehicle, the contact observed that the front passenger's side tire was angled inward and had nearly detached from the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the front engine cradle after observing excessive corrosion. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 122,000.
Ford Escape hybrid 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: 1FMCU0C71AK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the steering wheel did not function as intended. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed steering torque sensor. The contact was advised that the steering torque sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was informed of an unknown recall however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Recalls Ford Escape hybrid
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Ford Escape hybrid.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Escape hybrid 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-02-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
- Consequence: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 2, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S10.
Latest negative Ford Escape hybrid car reviews
Latest positive Ford Escape hybrid car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
The Escape Hybrid for 2008 is a fantastic purchase! I used to commute 120 miles round trip every day in my 2004 Acura TL, but since I bought the Escape, I barely drive the TL anymore. I'm now saving almost $300 a month, which more than covers the car payment. Although there are some minor design annoyances, such as the lack of audio controls on the steering wheel, the audio quality is top-notch.
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Vehicle year: 2010
This car is very nice. Living in the hilly Pacific Northwest, the flawless AWD makes the ride feel easy. Excellent fuel economy and parallel park assist just add to the list. I have rear-ended four cars last year, but with this tool, I have yet to do any damage.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this vehicle. I ordered it back in June of '08 and picked it up in October. Let me tell you, it's been a blast to drive! Once you learn how to coax the electric drive into action, it's really something special. One of my favourite things about this car is how it can sneak up on people in electric mode and turn heads as you drive past them at 30-40 mph. It's so quiet! So far, I haven't had any reliability issues and the car delivers the promised mileage. The features that I got on this vehicle have all been very satisfactory and helpful, especially the Nav system, step bars, and cargo rack bars. However, I will say that the interior design is a bit clunky. Overall, though, I'm really happy with my purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I received my new 2007 Escape in June and it has been a great replacement for my 2000 Explorer XLT with 170K miles. I have been driving it for 6 months and have already covered 14K miles. The gas mileage is steady at 22 mpg, which is about 7 mpg better than my '00 Explorer. Although there are some weak areas such as the rear brakes, which are drum rather than disc, and there is driveline vibration at times, plus noticeable rattles and general mechanical noise, I would still recommend the Escape. However, I would suggest getting one with front and rear disc brakes to avoid the noticeable and dangerous rear brake fade. Overall, I am still very happy with my Escape after 6 months of driving it.
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Vehicle year: 2007
The car gets a decent mileage of about 27 to 29 mpg in realistic driving. It would be great if the buttons were repositioned, for example, the seat warmers could be moved from the center console to the side of the seat. When it comes to the tax credit, it's important to be aware that it deflates on a ratio to income. In my case, the $2600 tax credit ended up being $159. The economy is still there, but it's important to exercise caution on the credit sliding scale. Overall, I think it's a great car!
Are you having problems with your Ford Escape hybrid?
Alec Moen 2024-11-23
Vehicle year: 2006
Although there have been some issues with the car, I am confident that they can be resolved. The car has been in for maintenance several times, but I trust that the mechanics will be able to fix the problems. I have an appointment tomorrow to address some concerns, but I am optimistic that they will be resolved. While the gas mileage has been disappointing, I believe that the mechanics will be able to improve it. Overall, I still recommend the Escape, but perhaps the Hybrid model needs some improvements. Ford has a great track record with the regular Escape, and I am confident that they will be able to improve the Hybrid model as well.
Kristian Ryan 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 2008
I've driven Explorers and 1 Mountaineer since '94, about 600,000 miles altogether, so you could say I'm a big fan. I have to admit, I tend to drive around 70-75 mph, which I know is a bit faster than the cops would like, but I'm still getting an impressive 28.3 - 29.7 mpg. The hybrid technology is really impressive, and I love that I can still have AWD, 4 seats and doors, and some cargo space - it's the perfect SUV, you know? I do hope that Ford will continue to improve the model in the next few years. One thing to note is that the engine will shut off and restart about 10 seconds later, but it's really not a big deal. And of course, like all cars in this century, it has a locking fuel door (which really should have been standard all along).
Leonel Little 2024-11-10
Vehicle year: 2007
Owning a Hybrid Escape was initially enjoyable, but unfortunately, after the first 6 months, we started experiencing some issues. Despite regular services, filter replacements, and tire changes, the mileage began to decrease. Additionally, the door lock actuator on the driver's side stopped working properly, which can be inconvenient in an emergency. Occasionally, the lights on the Gauge Cluster go out, making it difficult to see how fast we're going at night. Unfortunately, we recently had to spend $1200 to repair the water pump at 63,000 miles. While we have had some challenges with this car, we are hopeful that future maintenance will be smoother.
Jerad Barton 2024-11-03
Vehicle year: 2006
The Hybrid's 2 wheel drive achieves exceptional mileage (30+ city and highway) while providing good visibility, acceleration, and handling. Despite some issues with the quality of materials, particularly in the interior, the car remains a solid choice. The rear storage area carpet, which covers the batteries and must be moved for maintenance, is unfortunately not attached down by anything, not even Velcro. This causes the carpet to constantly come loose whenever a box is slid into the back. Additionally, the quality of the carpet is subpar, as it is already looking shabby after only 9 months. The speedometer's poor lighting makes it hard to read at night, but this does not detract from the car's overall performance and reliability.
Patrick Gottlieb 2024-10-07
Vehicle year: 2006
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my pre-owned car. While it has been great for the most part, I have noticed a few issues such as some squeaks at the battery area and a loose and squeaky front airbag. I have found that the consumption is great below 30mph, but not so much on the highway. Despite this, the ride is still quite comfortable. I did have some trouble with attendance for recalls, as not all technicians are familiar with hybrids. Additionally, I have had some issues with the power window switch failing, not just on my Escape but on my Focus as well. Overall, I still enjoy my car and would recommend it to others. Let me know if you have any questions!