Ford Escape Problems Include Five Model Years to Avoid Due to Engine and Electrical Problems, Potential Safety Concerns

Feb 15, 2022

Over 20 years on the road and the Ford Escape remains one of the automaker’s hottest sellers. However, several of the compact SUV’s model years–including 2010, 2013, 2014, 2017, and 2020–suffer from a significant number of problems that may compromise safety and bring vehicle reliability into question.

2020 Ford Escape - Photo by Ford

Key Points

The 2010 Ford Escape has nearly 2,000 complaints logged with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, mostly related to power train issues.
The 2013 Escape has a whopping 16 recalls, the most in the Escape’s recent history. The engine and electrical system are the biggest concerns, with several recalls related to Escape engine defects.
The 2014 Escape has a similar amount of problems to 2013, as well as recalls for unintentional rollaway and doors opening while driving.
The 2020 Ford Escape has over 100 complaints and six recalls just two years out from its fourth-generation refresh.

2010 Ford Escape - Photo by Ford

2010 Ford Escape Power Train Complaints Reflect Model Year’s Age, with Significant Safety Recalls Related to Fuel Delivery Module and Electric Power Steering

The 2010 Ford Escape was the compact SUVs second worst year for problems and recalls for this generation of the Escape. According to the NHTSA, the 2010 Escape has accrued 2,000 complaints, noting problems with speed control and power train components.

The 2010 Ford Escape engine’s electronic throttle body, in both the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter V6, may be the most problematic component owners experienced, noting a sudden loss of power or stalling while driving. The problem was so widespread that it led to two NHTSA investigations.

These NHTSA investigations revealed internal throttle body components on Ford Escape engines may develop a residue buildup that causes electrical connectivity issues, leading to reduced engine power. Ford extended the throttle body warranty coverage for up to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the vehicle’s purchase date.

Other reports of age-related engine failures, component failures, oil leaks, and gas leaks appear to be on the rise.

The 2010 Ford Escape has been recalled five times; the two most critical affect over 1,000,000 vehicles. One of these recalls, involving electric power steering failure, was caused by a problem with a torque sensor in the steering column.

The second, related to a fuel leak on vehicles with the 3.0L engine, is caused by a crack in a fuel delivery module. Both recalls involve resulted in injuries to drivers and passengers, but both can be remedied by a Ford dealer at no cost.

2013 Ford Escape - Photo by Ford

2013 and 2014 Ford Escape’s Share Similar Problems and Recalls on Several Major Components, Mostly Engine and Electrical System-related

The 2013 Ford Escape has over 2,000 registered NHTSA complaints and 16 recalls, the model’s most problematic year. Escapes from 2014 aren’t much better at 1,200 and 14.

The 2013 and 2014 Ford Escapes reported serious powertrain and electrical issues. The problematic 1.6L EcoBoost engine was recalled for overheating, which, due to defective engine shielding, could overheat, crack, and leak oil. Fire hazards and engine failure have occurred as a result. Many of the 1,000-plus engine-related complaints confirm oil leaks and overheating are an issue.

The 2013 and 2014 Escape’s electrical systems are also problematic. Upon review of the data, as these vehicles have aged, sensors and other electrical components are increasingly failing, causing disruptions for operators and potentially increasing the risk of crash.

Both 2013 and 2014 Ford Escapes share several recalls. The most significant for both model years, affecting the largest number of vehicles, are for issues like unintentional rollaway due to detached shift cable, defective engine wiring on 2.0L EcoBoost engines, and doors opening while driving. While each of these issues increases risk of crash, Ford has remedies available for owners free of charge to correct them.

2017-Ford-Escape-1.5-EcoBoost-Titanium-105

2017 Escape: Only One Recall but Nearly Half of NHTSA-reported Complaints Related to Engine Issues Make Reliability Questionable

The 2017 Ford Escape introduced a mid-cycle update that included new tech and engines. Unfortunately, the 2017 model year had more problems reported to the NHTSA than any other model year after 2017 (prior to fourth-generation 2020 Escape).

NHTSA data shows the 2017 Ford Escape has almost 500 complaints on file, and about half of them were related to the Escape’s 1.5L or 2.0L Ecoboost turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Misfiring and engine coolant leaking in the cylinders due to cracking in the engine block is ’17 Escape engine’s biggest problem, with failure and even fire hazard a possibility.

These issues arose on vehicles with as few as 50,000 miles. A class-action lawsuit was filed by owners since Ford has not issued a recall for this matter, and repairs/replacements can cost upwards of $10,000.

Only one recall was issued for certain model year 2017 Ford Escape Titanium and SE vehicles manufactured between October 5, 2015, to May 12, 2016.

An issue with the closing-force on the power windows could allow the windows to close before auto-reversing, potentially causing injury. A quick update by Ford dealers to the power window operating system software addresses this.

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2020 Ford Escape, First Model Year of Fourth-Generation, Showing Signs of Electrical Issues, Other Annoying Quirks

The fourth-generation Ford Escape was newly introduced for the 2020 model year. After just two years on the road, the 2020 Escape has racked up over one hundred complaints with the NHTSA and six recalls issued by Ford.

The 2020 Escape’s electrical systems are finicky. A good portion of complaints report quirks with the vehicle’s infotainment system, specifically the backup camera not activating upon engaging reverse, or other random issues like the hands-free lift-gate not opening, or driver-assist features activating or not activating inappropriately.

Having six recalls this early in the 2020 Escape’s lifecycle is concerning. Most of these affect a small number of vehicles combined (roughly 1,000), for issues like inadequate lubrication in the rear-drive unit, a malfunction with the tire pressure monitoring system, missing or loose bolts on the auto start/stop mechanism, and side curtain airbags not properly inflating.

Two other 2020 Escape recalls, one for the rearview camera and the other for seatback strength affect a greater number of Ford and Lincoln products. Fortunately, each of these recalls is available with a remedy ready at no expense to owners.

Ford Escape is a Popular Versatile Crossover, with a few Problematic Years that We Would Skip

Positioned as one Ford’s highest-selling vehicles, the Escape has been praised for its evolutionary updates in exterior design, powertrain, technology, and safety updates. Consequently, the Escape has accrued a number problems and recalls with various major components throughout its production history.

Research of the Ford Escape revealed the 2010, 2013, 2014, 2017, and 2020 model years had the most reported problems and recalls issued. As such, these model years should be avoided when considering an Escape. While these problems and recalls range in severity, it would be best to consider a Ford Escape outside those model years.

Photos: Ford

Owner Reviews

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Alice on August 8, 2022

2022 Ford Escape - Excessive Driver's side Noise

I had a 2020 Ford Escape I traded in for a 2022 Escape. My 2020 was very quiet. The 2022 is not. When driving down the freeway at speeds above 65 MPH it sounds as if the driver's side window is open slightly. It is not. My 2020 did not have this problem. I took it to the dealer.15 days later, numerous attempts at taping doors, resealing the windshield result in nothing. OK not nothing, they suggested I call Ford and make a complaint. I made a complaint to Ford. Ford said to try another dealer and test drive I different one. I test drove a different one. Same sound. I asked the customer service agent from Ford if anyone else had report the problem. She said no. If find that hard to believe. I think no one is reporting it to Ford so they don't have a clue. The dealer offered to give me MSRP for my car. But they would not pay tax, licenses and the money I paid over MSRP. Ok I know I should never have purchased over. That was my bad. But being told in different language to s**k it up butter cup. Not our problem since all of our 2021 and 2022 Escapes to this just doesn't see right. The dealer said I could buy one of their cars and they would roll up the tax, license and the money above the MSRP I paid for the 2022 into a new vehicle. I almost laughed. But i was so upset there was not laughter. Almost tears is more like it. Needless to say when this car is finally paid off, I will sell it and get a vehicle for another manufacture. Coming form someone who has been a Ford Family for most of my life, that is strong. Buyer beware.... Don't assume nothing has chanced from one model to anther or that Ford actually cares that the noise affects someone hearing. I will give it a single start for the leather seats and Hybrid mileage. ]

April Sutton on December 15, 2021

Worst Love Lost

I thought this car would be a great fit for me, boy was I ever wrong! At 90K miles the transmission just went out, no bells or whistles or lights just noticed a hard slip while driving and drove to the dealer that was 5K in repairs for a new transmission. With that behind me I was feeling a bit better. UNTIL, at 116K no lights, no smoke, no water dripping no service warning did the dang thing run hot and cracked the head ( so we tried the blue block) never do that cause the whole motor is shot at that point . Here's the kicker it cost as much to replace the heads it is does the whole engine cause of the way they have everything crammed under the hood. And a new motor is 8K from Ford and 4,500.00 best used with acceptable mileage below 60K . Heart broken to say the least , can't afford a FORD they don't make them like the old ones, the ones that last. I'll never buy another for sure! What stinks , is all the mechanics and people I've spoken too in recent months say Ford knows they have issues with this SUV and should recall it but haven't yet. Im holding out hope they will do the right thing and fix peoples SUVs .

Sheila Q on December 7, 2023

2017 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0L

Really frustrated with Ford right now. I remember my 1978 Ford Pinto back in the day. Bought this 2017 Ford Escape & loved it, leather, turbo charged all a girl needs. At about 74K miles at the grocery store when backing out heard a horrible noise. After a tow to the Ford dealership in 2020 they said the transmission disintegrated, luckily for me, we purchased the 100K extended warranty and I was very lucky. Now, with 120K miles the coolant has leaked into the engine and the dealership said it will take about $8K to fix. They also told me Ford knew there was a problem with this engine but no recalls. They will not help out & I still owe the bank, they also told me that they would give me $500 for my car (yes, there is no comma in that number). I have always stood my Ford, but I may have to change brands. My husband is not a Ford person, so I’m getting a rash from his lip. Would like to know how to hop on this Class Action Law Suit…. This is BAD BUSINESS!!! There should be a negative rating…

KRW on August 22, 2022

Electrical issues 2015 Ford Escape

The vehicle seems reliable enough , as I have yet to have any real issues with it. Though the sync system frequently disconnects from bluetooth devices and will not reconnect for days or weeks at a time even after a system reboot. The lights have some wiring problem where obviously changing the lamp isn't fixing it ( passenger rear lamp hasn't worked in a while). AAAAAND the rear camera decides not to work on occasion where sometimes if you shift back into drive then back into reverse either one time or several it will come back on. The AC has an issue sometimes where the air pressure is gone through the dash facing vents, and I have to turn the heat on full blast and on defrost only to switch back to the main vents then put on AC and it will begin blowing with full power. IDK man for my first car it is fine but dangggggg those issues though.

TCV on December 9, 2022

Bad electronics.

We bought a 2020 Escape Titanium Hybrid for a steal in March 2020. We loved and still love all its features and now at almost 3 years old have 70k on it. But……..it sat in the shop in 21 waiting for 2 computers for 3 months. Random things like one turn signal going out, strange behavior of the infotainment system, (suddenly unable to control Apple Music) the screen goes to an animated view of the car with blue and green lines showing from the rear to the engine. The backup camera went out in the first 3 months. The woofer speaker kept coming loose. Things got so bad that I had to get Ford involved and received a free Bumper to Bumper Extended Warranty for all the troubles. Still we love the car and drive everywhere in it.

Rick on August 22, 2021

2017 Escape engine coolant issues

My Escape has 63,000km on it. I took it in for its scheduled maintenance and also asked them to look at the check engine light that went on a couple days earlier. I received a call from the dealer and was told that the engine will need to be replaced. This will be covered under the powertrain warranty. The issue is coolant leaking into the cylinders. I was told that it will be a complete new engine. Earlier there was a factory notice that a software update would prevent coolant leaking into the cylinders. I was told by the dealer that the issue seems to be with the cylinder walls.

Angelo George on July 18, 2021

A piece of c**p

2014 2L ecoboost engine AWD,the truck has been nothing but a headache.With 150k the engine lost power and after beingdiagnosed by our local dealership we found out that the engine suffered piston failure ($5000 to repair).At which time they also replaced the timing chain and water pump.All without warranty mind you. Now with 225k the timing chain failed again (no warranty) and out of pocket $2000 parts and labor. And every deal I went to said 1 year or 25k warranty ,which is a joke. Just a piece of junk, will never again buy or recommend a Ford product to anyone.

Paula on August 2, 2022

2018 Escape with engine issue

Don’t buy anEscape! I have a 2018 I bought new in January of 2019 with great year end deal, that was a mistake. In September of 2019 I needed a new engine because the coolant was leaking into the oil due to cracks in the walls, this replacement was covered under warranty. Fast forward to today. Three weeks ago it started running rough, and then the check engine light came on. Made an appt and took it to the dealer and I need another engine for the same problem. I was told when they replace the first engine ford had fixed this problem, that was a lie!!!

paul on September 3, 2021

107,000 Km , 2014 ford escape parts are failing

At 107,000 Km i have replaced a wheel bearing, and just this week i hear a whining noise, thought it was the transmission, as I have heard a few horror stories about the transmission, brought it in to a transmission shop. Low and behold its the Hanger bearing on the rear drive shaft that attaches to the transmission. Great, I thought, just replace the bearing.... Oh no you cant do that, I have to replace the entire drive shaft... WTF, I just need a hanger bearing... Nope cant do that. Car companies are crooks, just like most corporations.... Stay away.

Mary on October 23, 2021

Major 2017 Ford Escape engine problems related to recall

I bought this car used less than a year ago the engine started acting like it was going to stall took it into the dealership in Fenton mi they said they did the recall but did not continued having problems took it into another dealership they have had it over a month said the coolant was leaking into engine block said they replaced it but now have replaced crank shaft twice but can’t get engine to stop leaking they are now telling me they are calling a Ford engineer still don’t have car back worried will continue to have problems once I do

Timothy H on May 11, 2022

2020 Escape dies while driving.

23,000 miles and the check engine light comes on. Code says wiring harness on transmission temp sensor. Wait for a week for the part to come in. In the mean time my wife is driving it and it dies and won't start. Dealer says water intrusion in the wiring harness. Waiting for the part for more than a week. Harness comes in but no fuse block. Wait for the fuse block for more than a week. 3 weeks after it died while driving they call and say it's fixed. My wife goes to pick it up and it dies while pulling on to an Expressway. Total piece of c**p.

Regina C on October 8, 2021

2010 Ford Escape has been my worst nightmare.

I have spent more money on vehicle repairs than I have on paying for the vehicle itself. Not too mention that it is also had to be taken in for repairs and adjustments due to several recalls. I am not sure exactly what gas mileage it gets, but it cannot be very much. Maybe I am just unlucky enough to have gotten the lemon of the bunch, but it is been bad enough that I may never purchase another Ford. If I do, it certainly will not be an Escape! I cannot wait until I can afford to get another vehicle!

Randy Wallace on November 17, 2021

Major issues before I made my first payment

2020 Escape Sport SE Hybrid, Loved the car for the first 800 miles. Then, the service engine warning came on. Now in it's second day in the shop for replacement of the catalytic converter (on a new car? Unheard of!). No confidence in the diagnosis (I checked the code myself, and that's what it reads, although it can be caused by other things) and no confidence the dealer is prepared for such an extensive repair on a brand new model. Thought this was a good alternative to the RAV-4. Very disappointed.

Dan on June 18, 2021

2020 Escape's Vibration/Humming

The Vibration starts at around 1250 as well as the humming. As speed increases so does the Vibration and Humming. We have had this to two different dealers. All the Techs and Service Reps agree that the vibration and humming is a problem. But Ford says there is nothing wrong.If Ford can't come up with a fix very soon, we are trading this in for a Toyota or Honda and will never buy a Ford product again nor recommend one. Sad part is we have been a Ford family for over 30 years but it is what it is.

Gabriel Nunez on March 27, 2023

2017 Ford Scape

Just six months ago I bought a 2017 Ford Scape and rode the SUV and it has lots of power until the other my sister in law was dying so I took a trip down to Connecticut and I couldn’t go past 70 MPH and in the it kept saying something I couldn’t read it, when I got home the next day I clean the filter it wasn’t all that d***y so on Sunday I took out for a trip I try it again and just won’t go pass 70 MPH, any ideas could it been set by the previous owner so it won’t go past 70 MPH?

Joe User on August 11, 2021

2020 Escape Will Leave You STRANDED

Myself and 5 or 6 other owners have noted that the Titanium Hybrid will suddenly and for no apparent reason display a "Stop Safely Now" message on the dash and slow to a crawl. If you stop, the engine dies and it will not start again right away. Multiple owners have taken them to dealerships with ' no idea' being the response. Frankly, until Ford sorts out the hybrid drivetrain issues it may be best to wait. I know this is 'version 1.0' problem, but hopefully they fix it fast!

Sandy from Tennessee on July 11, 2022

Safety and reliability

2016 Ford escape caught on fire. Took the vehicle to Ford complaining the battery drains too quickly. They kept the car for two days and the tech answer It starts for him everything. I took the vehicle home and battery drained again . This time went to Firestone the battery was bad they said and replaced battery and three tires. At 10pm the car caught on fire and totalled. Luckily I did not park the car in the garage. Waiting on insurance to do their thing.

Helia lopez on November 12, 2021

Transmission problems

After 110,000 km on my 2013 Ford Escape I had to replace my transmission and from what I am hearing many owners are having the same problem. It should be recalled because what happens is the car just jerks and it just wont go very dangerous when you are in heavy traffic. My transmission guy claims he has had many problems with this type of transmission.It cost me $4000 it fix Fords transmission problem they should have fixed in the first place.

Rickey Rachel on June 20, 2022

Don't buy Ford escape 2017 model

Engine went out at 48,000 Miles. Absolutely no help from Ford customer service on this . You can talk until you are blue in the face . They will not acknowledge they have engineering issues with the 1.5 ecoboost. EfG warranties are terrible to. 3rd party warranty company that Ford dealership sells. Buyer beware.Traded in escape for new KIA x line . Great vehicle and expendable. No more ford's for me .

Sasha H on January 21, 2022

Issues with my 2010 ford escape SUV.

Has issues when you turn the wheel while driving sometimes it will turn the car off. This is an ok car but I wouldn't pay a lot for any older model. It most definitely is not what I thought it would be vehicle wise, not that it's horrible or anything but I would definitely do a good test drive and have someone who is knowledgeable about cars look at it first.

Sherry on June 7, 2022

Know what you are getting into

Hi I bought 2017 1.5 ecoboost engine brand new November 1 2017 I have 141k I had it put on amachine it said no power in the 4 C ylinder change Coil and spark plugs then told it need a new engine cost of a new engine 14162 and change .I don't believe the money we spent on vehicles that it only last 4.5 years the loan last longer the the vehicle

Kenneth Watkins on November 11, 2023

2017 Ford Escape

I bought a 2017 Escape with a 2.5L, I’ve put 144,000 miles on it with only minor problems, a little front end work,and a couple of coil packs,and 3 batteries that Ford replaced FREE OF CHARGE cause all 3 went out before 50,000. The 2.5L is made by Mazda and I do believe with Full Synthetic Mobil 1 oil who knows how many miles it will go..

Don Anderson on January 22, 2022

Engine vibration is excessive

I've had this new 2020 Escape for a month now and I am really getting fed up with the engine vibration from the 3 cyl. Engine when the 3rd cylinder is deactivated which is most of the time. It is excessive and the dealer says it is normal. Is there a way the system can be disengaged? I'm getting to the point I want to use the Lemon law.

Deb Hartshorne on June 24, 2023

Unable to engage the reverse

I have had this problem twice where after I start the car I am unable to turn the knob in the console to reverse or drive. The dealer is not able to replicate this. I have a 2020 Ford Escape Titanium Hybrid. Now I’m hesitant to drive anywhere fearing this will happen again and I’ll be stranded.

Mark K on August 6, 2021

2017 Escape's Engine Blows at 61K Miles - Ridiculous

Engine light goes on at 61,400 miles. Dealer says the car needs a new short short block. Can you believe it engine fail a 61K miles. Initially Ford wouldn't honor the warranty as car was over by 1,400 miles. After much haggling they offered $1,400 on a $6,000 repair. Still owe $10K. What to do?

Pat S on June 17, 2021

My experience owning 2013 ford escape.

Uncomfortable, badly designed console area, working under hood locations difficult to access gas mileage is misrepresented, sunroof leaks, always needs some kind of repair both front and back seats are crowded nowhere to put anything like purse, syncing is confusing doesn't always work.

Paula on February 4, 2022

Don’t do it!!! Don't bye 2013 Escape!!

I bought mine a year ago. After a couple of months the transmission went. I have the extended warranty thank God!!! But now it has a knocking noise and it’s either the transmission (which was replaced at 56k miles) or the engine with (62k miles). Worst car I have ever purchased!!!

Sharon Emery on August 5, 2021

Noisy shifting with 2020 Escape

The first two weeks of ownership, everything was fine, but suddenly the gear shifts got very noisy. Especially the first morning drive, it is so loud I am embarrassed By it. I don’t know how it sounds outside, but inside it sounds like a souped up teen truck when shifting.

isabel S on August 21, 2021

2010 grey ford escape with leather seats.

I think that the 2010 ford escape I have is outdated, lacking many modern accommodations that are in newer car like a better radio, rear and front camera, and better seats. I think my 2010 ford escape also is not very stylish and nice looking, it looks trashy.

Jennifer B on June 18, 2021

Poor engine quality. 2017 Escape is not reliable.

Not reliable. I am having the engine replaced after only 2 1/2 years. This is a ford recall issue. Sport package - the painted rims will scratch very easily and the tires have terrible traction,

BM on December 7, 2022

2019 Ford Escape SEL

Does not deserve one star. We have had nothing but trouble. The latest issue is it has 33,000 miles on it and is in the shop getting a new engine.

Kraft on August 14, 2021

2014 Ford Escape

Have had numerous issues with doors wherein inner panel comes loose after shutting doors. Now fan only works on highest setting.

Danielle D on July 17, 2021

Do not buy 2010 model if you like air conditioning.

The air conditioning keeps breaking, so that air only works on 4 which is the highest setting. Very annoying.

Geoffrey Piehl

Geoff Piehl has been covering industry trends for many popular automotive websites for over two years. He is a longtime content creator for the IB Auto Group, and in addition to contributing to Vehicle History his byline can be found on Club Lexus and Ford Trucks.