2011 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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Common 2011 Ford Escape hybrid problems
The 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is a compact crossover SUV that combines impressive cargo space with improved fuel economy while offering seating for five and a feature-packed alternative to gas guzzling crossover SUVs. However, like any vehicle, it has its own set of common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most frequently reported issues with the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is related to the air conditioning (A/C) system. If the A/C doesn't work and it is hot, it will always run on petrol because it can't cool the battery. This is because the A/C system is responsible for cooling the battery, and if the cabin A/C is not functioning, the battery cannot be cooled down, and the computer will not allow the hybrid system to work. This can be a significant problem, especially in hot climates, as it can lead to the battery overheating and potentially damaging the vehicle's hybrid system.
The root cause of this issue is a vacuum pump problem, which was identified by a user who experienced the same issue. The user replaced the vacuum pump three times, but the problem was not solved. It was later discovered that the issue was caused by the deletion of the most important component in the battery cooling system, which was done to save manufacturing money during the 2008 financial crisis. This change resulted in the cabin A/C and battery cooling system having to work 100% for the hybrid system to function correctly.
Another common problem with the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid is related to the steering system. The worst problem category for this model year is steering problems, with the most reported problem being power steering assist failure. This can be a significant safety issue, as it can make the vehicle difficult to steer, especially at low speeds.
Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the engine, including catastrophic engine failure and rear differential failure. These issues can be costly to repair, with an average cost to fix of $5,600 for engine failure and $3,100 for rear differential failure.
In summary, the 2011 Ford Escape Hybrid has several common problems, including issues with the air conditioning system, steering system, and engine. These issues can be costly to repair and can impact the vehicle's safety and reliability. It is essential to be aware of these issues and to have them addressed promptly to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.
What issues does a 2011 Ford Escape have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Climate System. AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage. ...
- Paint And Trim. ...
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Drive System. ...
- Electrical Accessories. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- Engine Electrical.
How long will a Ford Escape Hybrid battery last?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
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.
How much does it cost to replace a Ford Escape Hybrid battery?
Ford Escape hybrid battery replacement cost ranges between $ 1,800.00 and $ 4,700.00 at Ace Hybrid Group.
Why did they discontinue the Escape Hybrid?
The Escape Hybrid met both California's SULEV and PZEV standards, with tailpipe emissions better than 90% less than the average 2003 new car and zero evaporative emissions. By early 2012 Ford discontinued the production of the Escape Hybrid due to the introduction of the third generation Escape.
What issues does a 2011 Ford Escape have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Climate System. AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage. ...
- Paint And Trim. ...
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Drive System. ...
- Electrical Accessories. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- Engine Electrical.
Is 2011 Ford Escape a reliable car?
How Reliable Is the 2011 Ford Escape? J.D. Power gives the 2011 Ford Escape a reliability rating of three out of five, which is about average.
How long will a Ford Escape Hybrid battery last?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
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.
Is Ford Escape 2011 fuel efficient?
The Escape's fuel economy is good for its class. According to the EPA, a front-wheel drive (FWD) four-cylinder model should net 22/28 mpg city/highway with the manual transmission and 21/28 mpg with the optional automatic. All-wheel drive (AWD) four-cylinder models net 20/26 mpg with the automatic.
2011 Ford Escape hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Ford Escape hybrid.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2011 Ford Escape hybrid car reviews
Positive 2011 Ford Escape hybrid car reviews
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2017 Update - I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 Escape hybrid Limited. After 10,000 miles and one year of ownership since purchasing it used (50,700 mi), I can happily report that I have not experienced any problems. Following the recommended 10,000 mile regular-scheduled manufacturing service, I only had to change a single burned left-turn signal bulb. I also voluntarily decided to replace the original set of tires with new Michelins, which was the only wear-n-tear kind of ownership cost. After the 60,000 mile service, one of the Ford servicemen revealed that Ford dealerships do not care much about this SUV hybrid since servicing it is not profitable for them, due to the lack of any problems compared with the non-hybrid Escape, even compared with the newer one. My own experience confirms this Ford dealers' 'secret' - my 2009 Escape hybrid Limited simply doesn't require any service going forward. Once per 10,000 mile intervals, you only need a change of gasoline engine oil/filter and the filter of the HV-hybrid system. Nothing else. And notice, all that is after the Escape hybrid SUV reached a major milestone that usually requires major expensive service for other vehicles. It speaks for itself, right? I paid out of pocket $137 for this 60,000 mile major service, plus all other gas-consumption savings and having Partially-Zero emissions, contributing to cleaner air. My city/hwy mileage was always better than the original test-estimates listed for a new car (34/32 mpg). I reached on a regular basis - 36/34 mpg (city/hwy). If I did not reside on the steep hills that I needed to climb daily to come back home, I promise you my city mileage would have been much higher, without any special coasting hypermileage efforts.After driving 6,000 miles on top of the acquired 50,700 miles, I am happy to report that I exceeded the EPA reported mileage of 31 mpg. On the highway, I achieved an impressive 35 mpg, and even higher for city driving. During trips from the hilltop to the city, the hybrid SUV registered between 49-100 mpg, depending on whether I was practicing 'hypermiling' or driving normally. It's truly impressive! This latest model of the Escape Hybrid, produced between 2009-2012, will one day be regarded as a highly esteemed antique, and one of a kind in the American automotive industry. It's still a great hybrid machine, and Ford has never been able to match it after replacing it with the smaller C-Max hybrid hatchback. While the Ford leadership's idea was to go after the Prius by replacing the 2009-2012 Escape hybrid SUV with the C-Max car, they were never able to match Toyota's hybrid. The Escape hybrid of the latest production years was definitely the leader, unmatched not only among all non-luxury compact SUVs back then, but also among all American brands. Of course, the 2009-2012 model year (the 2nd and last generation of the Ford Escape Hybrid before it was discontinued) is not as refined as the Toyota Highlander's hybrid or the Lexus hybrid SUV in terms of ride, road noise, and interior design, even in the highest trim - Limited. This is surprisingly disappointing for the highest Escape Hybrid trim. However, Ford engineers did a great job in uniquely calibrating the hybrid SUV compared to the 2nd generation Toyota hybrid, using the most powerful high-voltage NiMH batteries and two electric motors. Despite this, Ford was cheap in the rest of the hardware and interior materials, and insulation from road noise, even in the Escape Hybrid's highest and most expensive Limited trim. In 2016, a second owner reviewed the Ford Escape Hybrid and praised its utility and fuel economy. They noted that the hybrid engine was calibrated to work on electrical power in certain circumstances, making it a unique and reliable vehicle. Despite its success, Ford discontinued the model in 2013, making it difficult to find on the used car market. However, the reviewer pointed out that owners tend to keep this model longer than the non-hybrid Escape due to its reliability. The Toyota RAV4 hybrid was recently released and is now the only non-luxury winning combination of utility and fuel economy on the market. It is a popular choice among the public, especially since the Ford Escape hybrid is no longer available.
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I'm almost at 5,000 miles with my '10 Escape Hybrid and I absolutely love it! So far, I'm averaging between 31.2 - 31.8 mpg. I can't get enough of the Sirius radio, the back-up camera, the chrome, the comfort, the moonroof, the handling, the get-up and go, and the leather. I traded in a Tribeca Subaru for this and I'm so glad I did. I wish I had done it sooner, but I saw this truck on the lot and was able to negotiate with the kind folks at the dealership. My son had purchased a regular Escape from them back in '05 and has enjoyed his truck and working with the same nice sales staff. This truck is so much fun to drive, looks sporty, carries more than you can imagine, and saves me $$ on gas. What's NOT to like?
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Overall, it has been a reliable vehicle with no major repairs needed. I purchased it used from a dealer 2.5 years ago with 40,000 miles on it. I drive 50,000 miles per year for work and typically get 28-31 MPG in the summer and 26-27 MPG in the winter. I'm not entirely sure how much the cold weather affects the mileage, as I usually let the car warm up in the driveway before driving. Recently, my wife started driving the car and has been averaging 23-25 MPG. I was concerned that something might be wrong, so I reset the MPG and it went up to 30. I believe that the driver has the most impact on MPG.
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Not a home run due to rust. However, my daughter's car has been a reliable workhorse so far with 180k miles. The only issue we've had is minor rust, which is a common issue given the fuel economy and reliability. While replacement hybrid batteries can be expensive compared to Priuses, we haven't had any issues with it so far. Overall, it's been a great car for us!
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You've driven 23,000 miles over the course of 14 months without any mechanical issues, and the gas mileage has been as advertised. The car has a quick pickup when you need to overtake other vehicles on the highway, which is great. However, you've noticed that there is a 2 second delay in power when you need it in your older Honda Accord. The dealer has adjusted the power steering as tightly as possible, but you feel that a little more tightening would give you more control at high speeds. Additionally, you've noticed some wind noise at high speeds that could be improved.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Ford Escape hybrid problems:
Thoughts comments concerns on 2011 Ford Escape hybrid? : r ...
Sep 24, 2020 ... The escape hybrids have an excellent reliability record. The transmission in the Escape hybrid is a continuously variable transmission that ...
2011 Ford Escape Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Top 2011 Ford Escape Problems · Ignition Misfires · Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving · Internal Transfer Case Problem on the 4WD models.
Hey all. Im thinking about buying Ford Escape 2009 hybrid. Is it ...
Jul 28, 2022 ... Hows the gas on that model and the hybrid? What's the common problem? Ps the car has only 108k on it. Thank you.
2011 escape hybrid | Ford Automobiles
Jun 10, 2021 ... This used to be a real common failure of the Escape hybrid. While most have been replaced this video is proof there are still Escapes out ...
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Jan 31, 2012 ... In Ford Escape Hybrid 2006, I get the "Service Brake System" message and the Brake light illuminated occasionally. I took it in and they ...
Other years of Ford Escape hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2011 Ford Escape hybrid?
Lucious Harvey 2025-06-02
The car had only 2,500 miles on it and was being driven in hot weather conditions with the a/c on, making frequent stops and starts. At times, the gas engine would kick in. Suddenly, the car shut down and the tracking light went on, leaving the driver stranded with no power. After waiting for 30 minutes, the car started again and was taken to Haggerty Ford. Despite finding no error codes or issues, the dealer suggested that the vents in the back may have been blocked, but upon inspection, they were not. Unfortunately, the same thing happened again 1,500 miles later under the same conditions. The driver is taking the car to the Ford dealer again and is wondering if anyone else has experienced this issue. Despite these setbacks, we remain committed to finding a solution and restoring confidence in this car.
Kyleigh Bogan 2025-02-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 Escape Hybrid 2WD, which I also believe was a fleet car. Overall, it's in great shape! However, I have noticed that I'm only getting around 25 miles per gallon with combined city and highway driving, which is a bit lower than I expected. Additionally, I've noticed that the gas tank only seems to take around 11 gallons, even though I believe it has a 15 gallon tank. I'm wondering if you've experienced anything similar? I know it's been hot lately and the air conditioning has to be on, but I'm still a bit concerned. Any suggestions or information you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!
Hazel Rath 2024-05-02
I've had the car for almost three years and while I'm disappointed with the mileage numbers, I still appreciate its features. During colder weather, the MPG drops to 14 or 15, which is similar to what some of my friends with Toyota Priuses have experienced. Even in normal temperatures and highway driving, the best mileage I've ever gotten out of the car is 27 MPG. Looking back, I think I would have preferred a non-hybrid car and saved some money. Overall, I still enjoy driving the car and appreciate its unique features.
Jerome Cole 2024-02-06
The air conditioning evaporator is leaking, despite the car only having 58,000 miles. However, I am confident in the repair being done, despite the high cost.