The 2021 Ford EcoSport lasts around 200,000 miles with some average check engine lights and wheel bearing issues. At $17,500 to $22,995, it’s a good value for a small SUV with a practical interior.
Is the 2021 Ford EcoSport a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Ford EcoSport since it offers reliability improvements and decent practicality. Owner reviews praise the stereo system, cargo room, and the responsive steering.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are less luxurious than other SUVs, the seats still are supportive, cargo space is also very good for its size.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 EcoSport. Avoid models from 2018–2020 since they have engine and transmission problems, while 2021-2022 are more dependable.
- Performance 6/10 – Both of the engine choices are less powerful than other small SUVs on the market, and it’s not very exciting to drive.
- Safety 7/10 – The 2021 EcoSport is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera and Ford MyKey. Optional upgrades include parking sensors and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at around 28 MPG, giving 386 miles of range from the 13.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $26 cheaper than average at $173 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Ford EcoSport is less expensive than other small SUVs, with average depreciation rates, making it a decent value for shoppers.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Ford EcoSport?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Ford EcoSport is a practical subcompact SUV for buyers on a budget, with average owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Ford EcoSport at 3.5/5, enjoying the decent cargo space, but doesn’t like the jittery suspension on most road surfaces.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the EcoSport a 4.1/5, praising the stereo system software features, but owners don’t like that it’s not very roomy in the rear seats.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Ford EcoSport Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Ford EcoSport include check engine lights, wheel noise, along with some stereo system issues. Overall, these problems are similar to some other small SUVs on the market, leading to average repair costs as an EcoSport ages.
Check engine lights are the most widespread complaint on the 2021 EcoSport, showing up within the first 25,000 miles. You will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to diagnose the source of the problem. From there you can fix the issue, which can cost $50 to $500, depending on what caused the light to turn on.
Wheel noise is another problem found on some 2021 Ford EcoSport models at around 20,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by worn-out wheel bearings, which will have to be replaced. Changing out the wheel bearings costs around $450, since it’s a fairly involved process.
Stereo system issues have also been reported from some EcoSport owners at roughly 1,500 miles. There are some software updates for the stereo system, which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install the software updates for free, while others charge around $50 for labor.
There are no recalls on the 2021 Ford EcoSport, which is better than some other compact SUVs. Since there are no recalls, it just means none of the issues have been serious or affected the safety of the vehicle.
How Long Will the 2021 Ford EcoSport Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Ford EcoSport can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than the Toyota C-HR. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $365 per year.
As a used 2021 EcoSport reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the battery cable for $150, valve cover gasket costing $300, along with the catalytic converter, which costs about $850.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is fairly basic with only a small 4.2-inch screen. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3 software, which also adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The standard safety technology is also worse than the competition and only has a rearview camera and Ford MyKey to set volume and speed limits.
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Rear parking sensors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Is the 2021 Ford EcoSport a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Ford EcoSport is a good value since it’s reasonably reliable, while still being more affordable than some competitors. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $17,500 to $22,995, making it less than a Subaru Forester or Mazda CX-5. When new, the price range was $20,395 to $28,354. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Ford EcoSport?
There are four main models of the 2021 Ford EcoSport offered, from the entry-level S, through to the more luxurious Titanium. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
S is the entry-level model, which has:
- Cloth upholstery
- Four-way manually adjustable front seats
- Rearview camera
- Ford MyKey system
- SYNC infotainment system
- 2-inch display screen
- Six-speaker stereo system
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Two USB ports
SE is a step up, with:
- SYNC 3 infotainment system
- 8-inch touch screen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Satellite radio
- Heated front seats
- Push-button start
- Proximity keyless entry
- Automatic climate control
- Moonroof
- Fog lights
- Rear parking sensors
- Optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- Optional six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
SES offers more features, including:
- Stronger engine
- All-wheel drive
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Seven-speaker audio system
- Heated steering wheel
- 17-inch black wheels
- Leather upholstery with cloth inserts
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Heated exterior mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Titanium is the flagship model, which has:
- Includes SE’s features
- 17-inch wheels
- Chrome and metallic exterior accents
- Heated steering wheel
- Leather upholstery
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Heated exterior mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Navigation
- HD Radio
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Ambient lighting
- Six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
What Engines Come In the Ford EcoSport?
- The base engine is a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder EcoBoost, which delivers 123 horsepower. It achieves a combined fuel economy of 28 MPG and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine propels the EcoSport from 0 to 60 MPH in about 11 seconds, offering a balance of efficiency and responsive performance for city driving.
- The second option is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which provides a more robust 166 horsepower. This engine, also paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, has a combined fuel economy of around 25 MPG. It accelerates the EcoSport from 0 to 60 MPH in roughly 10 seconds, providing a bit more punch and making it better suited for quicker highway merges or more spirited driving.
What Colors Does the Ford EcoSport Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Ford EcoSport?
The 2021 Ford EcoSport offers a level of comfort that is noteworthy, especially considering its status as a compact SUV. The vehicle’s interior design focuses on creating a cozy and welcoming space for both the driver and passengers. The seats in the EcoSport are designed with long journeys in mind, offering adequate support and cushioning. This is particularly beneficial for those who spend a significant amount of time on the road, as it helps in reducing fatigue and discomfort. The higher trims of the EcoSport feature additional comforts like leather upholstery and heated front seats, enhancing the overall experience.
In terms of ride quality, the EcoSport provides a smooth and stable experience. Its suspension system is well-tuned to absorb most road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on less-than-ideal road surfaces. The compact size of the EcoSport also contributes to its maneuverability, making it a suitable vehicle for urban environments where navigating through traffic and tight parking spaces is a common challenge. However, it’s worth noting that while the EcoSport manages to deliver a comfortable ride in most scenarios, its compact dimensions might limit the sense of spaciousness inside, especially in the rear seats. This could be a consideration for those who often travel with multiple passengers.
The EcoSport’s cabin is reasonably insulated from external noise, contributing to a serene driving experience. Ford has also equipped the EcoSport with a user-friendly infotainment system that is both intuitive and responsive, adding to the overall comfort by providing entertainment and connectivity options within easy reach. These features, combined with the practical aspects of the vehicle, make the 2021 Ford EcoSport a comfortable choice for daily commutes and occasional road trips alike.
How Much Storage Space Does the Ford EcoSport Have?
The 2021 Ford EcoSport, a compact SUV, offers a practical and versatile storage solution, tailored for both everyday use and adventurous getaways. In its cargo area, the EcoSport boasts 20.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This space can be significantly expanded to about 50 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, providing ample room for larger items or additional luggage.
This storage capacity translates into real-world utility. For instance, with the rear seats up, the EcoSport can comfortably accommodate several suitcases, grocery bags, or a medium-sized dog crate. With the seats folded, the space becomes large enough to fit items like a small bicycle, a large flat-screen TV, or camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bags, and a cooler. This makes the EcoSport a suitable vehicle for both daily errands and weekend excursions.
Aside from the main cargo area, the Ford EcoSport offers several small yet thoughtfully designed interior storage spaces. These include door pockets, a glove compartment, and a center console with a built-in armrest. These spaces are ideal for storing smaller items like phones, wallets, water bottles, and snacks, keeping them within easy reach and well-organized during travel. Additionally, some models come with an adjustable cargo shelf, known as the Cargo Management System, which can be used to create a more versatile and organized storage space. This feature allows drivers and passengers to maximize the utility of the EcoSport’s interior, making it a convenient choice for those who value both space and organization.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Ford EcoSport was introduced for the 2018 model year, as a smaller SUV than the Ford Escape.
2018: First model year for the Ford EcoSport with new styling, technology features, and engines.
2019: More standard safety features across all models.
2020: 4G LTE Wi-Fi is standard on all models, and there’s an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen on the SE model.
2021: Standard power driver’s seat on the SES and Titanium models, small exterior styling changes.
2022: All-wheel drive is standard on all models, entry-level turbocharged motor discontinued.
How Does the Ford EcoSport Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Ford EcoSport is a decent small SUV, although it’s not really a leader in any areas since it’s still a fairly basic choice built for shoppers on a budget.
The Ford Escape is another compact SUV offered by Ford, which costs about $1,500 more. Passenger room is better in the Ford Escape, while the Ford EcoSport offers more responsive steering. We recommend the Ford Escape since the added practicality is worth the extra money.
The Chevy Trax is a small SUV built by Chevrolet that is available in the same price range. There’s more legroom in the back seats of the Chevy Trax, while the Ford EcoSport offers a more powerful engine. We recommend the Ford EcoSport, but both are very basic compact SUVs worth testing if you’re in the market for one.
