PPV / cars / ford / escape

Ford Escape — the used buyer's guide

Every generation: what ownership is like, what breaks at what mileage, what repairs cost, and what to check before you buy.

Search 'Ford Escape years to avoid' and the lists agree on a few names. CoPilot and CarBuzz point at 2013 and 2014, and CoPilot adds 2008. The usual reasons are the 6F35 automatic in 2013-2019 cars, coolant leaking into the cylinders on EcoBoost engines, power steering loss on 2008-2011 cars, and fuel injector and hybrid battery recalls on 2020 and later cars.

This page walks four Escape generations back to 2001. For each, it shows what breaks, what the repair costs where we found sources, and what to check in person. We also show our own numbers, NHTSA complaints per catalog listing and how often ads mention a problem, always with the denominators.

Our fixed rule flags no Escape year. 2013 has the most complaints (2,757 across 402 listings) but is 1.7 times its generation median, short of the 2.0x the rule needs. 2020 is 3.2 times its generation median, but ads for it mention a problem no more often than the median, so it does not trip the rule either. The sections explain each.

The generations

problems cluster by generation, not by badge — know which one you're looking at

Gen 1 (2001-2007)2001–2007
Gen 2 (2008-2012)2008–2012
Gen 3 (2013-2019)2013–2019
Gen 4 (2020-present)2020–2026

2001–2007

Gen 1 (2001-2007)

CarBuzz and 2017fordescape.com both split this first generation into 2001-2004 and a refreshed 2005-2007. We show it as one section because our data thins out across all seven years (CarBuzz, 2017fordescape.com). The leading transmission was the 4-speed CD4E (Transmission Repair Cost Guide). The first Escape Hybrid arrived in this run, and NHTSA records hybrid complaints under the same model name.

NHTSA complaints per catalog listing run from 64.19 for 2001 (1,027 complaints across 16 listings) down to 7.71 for 2007 (393 across 51), against a generation median of 16.16. 2001 is 4.0 times that median and 3 of 12 enriched ads (25.0%) mention a problem against a 20.0% median, but it has only 16 listings and our rule needs 30. Of the years with 30 or more listings (2003 to 2007), the highest is 2005 at 30.46 per listing, 1.9 times the median and short of the 2.0x our rule needs. No year is flagged.

What happens at what mileage

Miles	Item	Cost	Notes
about 104K-119K (CarComplaints averages)	Automatic transmission failure	$2,490-$3,280 average repair (CarComplaints: 2001 Escape, 23 complaints, $2,490 at 118,600 mi; 2004 Escape, 17 complaints, $3,280 at 104,300 mi)	These are averages from complaining owners, not shop quotes, and they rest on 17 and 23 complaints. Ask for transmission service records and feel for slips or harsh shifts on the test drive.
any	Recalls on file: stuck throttle on 3.0L V6 (12V353000, 2001-2004), engine stall on deceleration (04V165000, 2001-2003), hybrid coolant pump (14V526000, 2005-2008), remanufactured CD4E shift lever bolt (15V606000, 2001-2008)	Free at a Ford dealer when open	12V353000: inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could stick the throttle. 14V526000: the hybrid coolant pump may fail and overheat the hybrid electronics. 15V606000 applies only to cars that had a remanufactured transmission fitted in mid-2015. Confirm each by VIN.

Buying one — check these

Ask for transmission service records and drive it through every gear, hot and cold.
Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and confirm the stuck-throttle recall was done on 3.0L V6 cars.
Check the frame, rocker panels and rear arches for rust.

2001 to 2007 Escapes in our catalog clear around $2,500-3,400 depending on year (222 cleared sales). The lowest yearly medians are 2001, 2003 and 2004 and the highest is 2007. Every year rests on fewer than 50 cleared sales, so read these loosely.

Full Gen 1 (2001-2007) guide →

2008–2012

Gen 2 (2008-2012)

US model years 2008 through 2012 (CarBuzz, autoevolution). 2017fordescape.com notes 2008 stands alone as the first year of this body and 2009-2012 are alike.

NHTSA complaints per catalog listing fall from 15.90 for 2008 (2,417 complaints across 152 listings) to 2.20 for 2012 (619 across 281), against a generation median of 11.70. The highest year, 2008, is 1.4 times the median, short of the 2.0x our rule needs. 2009 has the highest ad share, 25 of 86 enriched ads (29.1%) against a 21.2% median, but its complaint rate is 1.3 times the median. No year is flagged. NHTSA owners name steering, power train and brakes most often.

What happens at what mileage

Miles	Item	Cost	Notes
about 77K-111K (CarComplaints averages)	Power steering assist loss	$660-$1,530 average repair (CarComplaints: 2008, 105 complaints, $1,260 at 108,100 mi; 2009, 35 complaints, $1,070 at 110,750 mi; 2011, 15 complaints, $1,530 at 77,400 mi; 2012, 15 complaints, $660 at 107,800 mi)	NHTSA recall 14V284000 covers 2008-2011 Escapes built August 2006 to September 2010: a steering torque sensor may fail to detect driver input and the system could remove electric power assist. The repair is free at a Ford dealer when the recall is open. The averages are complaining owners' costs, not shop quotes.
any	Recalls on file: 3.0L fuel delivery module crack (16V777000, 2010-2012), transmission park rod guide pin (10V222000, 2010 built Feb-Mar 2010)	Free at a Ford dealer when open	16V777000: on 3.0L engines the fuel delivery module may crack and leak fuel. Confirm both by VIN.

Buying one — check these

Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and confirm the power steering recall (14V284000) was done.
On the test drive, turn the wheel lock to lock at low speed and listen for assist dropping out.
Ask for transmission service records and check for rust underneath.

2008 to 2012 Escapes in our catalog clear around $3,550-4,500 depending on year (728 cleared sales). The lowest yearly median is 2010 and the highest is 2012.

Full Gen 2 (2008-2012) guide →

2013–2019

Gen 3 (2013-2019)

CarBuzz splits this generation into 2013-2016 and a refreshed 2017-2019 (CarBuzz, autoevolution). Ford's 1.6L EcoBoost was sold in 2013-2016 Escapes (Go-Parts); 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines are the turbo options on later cars (Avturo).

NHTSA complaints per catalog listing run from 6.86 for 2013 (2,757 complaints across 402 listings) to 2.29 for 2019 (599 across 262), against a generation median of 3.95. 2013 is 1.7 times the median, short of the 2.0x our rule needs; 2017 has the most enriched-ad mentions, 50 of 414 (12.1%) against a 9.2% median, but its complaint rate is 1.2 times the median. No year is flagged, with or without the rust flaw counted. NHTSA owners name the engine and power train most often. Third-party lists often name 2013 and 2014 as years to avoid (CoPilot, CarBuzz); our rule does not flag them.

What happens at what mileage

Miles	Item	Cost	Notes
about 78K-120K (CarComplaints averages, forum reports)	6F35 automatic transmission failure	$4,200-$5,400 (CarComplaints: 2013, 28 complaints, $4,460 at 77,850 mi; 2014, 64 complaints, $4,210 at 84,900 mi; forum: remanufactured unit with labor and warranty $4,200 on a 2014 SE at 120K mi)	The averages are complaining owners' costs, not shop quotes. NHTSA recall 22V413000 covers a shifter cable bushing that may degrade or detach on 2013-2019 Escapes; it is free and worth checking by VIN.
about 75K-97K (CarComplaints averages)	Coolant leaking into a cylinder on EcoBoost engines	$5,250-$6,620 average repair (CarComplaints: 2017, 22 complaints, $6,620 at 74,850 mi; 2018, 5 complaints, $5,250 at 97,100 mi); Avturo puts an independent-shop repair at $4,000-$7,000	Avturo says there was no safety recall for coolant intrusion on 2018 cars and advises a VIN check at a Ford dealer. Ask whether the cooling system has been serviced and check for coolant loss. The 1.6L has separate cylinder head recalls (12V431000, 13V583000, 17V209000) for coolant loss and overheating.

Buying one — check these

Ask for transmission service records and watch for flares or harsh shifts on the test drive.
On turbo engines, check the coolant level cold and look for white smoke or a rough idle at start-up.
Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls: 1.6L cylinder head, shifter cable bushing and door latch recalls are on file.

2013 to 2019 Escapes in our catalog clear around $4,995-9,999 depending on year (2,250 cleared sales). The lowest yearly median is 2013 and the highest is 2019.

Full Gen 3 (2013-2019) guide →

2020–2026

Gen 4 (2020-present)

The fourth generation (CX482) starts with model year 2020 (CarBuzz). It is sold with hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions; NHTSA records some of these under the names ESCAPE HEV and ESCAPE PHEV, and we count them with the Escape.

NHTSA complaints per catalog listing run from 6.89 for 2020 (1,839 complaints across 267 listings) to 0.29 for 2025 (31 across 106), against a generation median of 2.17. 2020 is 3.2 times that median, but 3 of 192 enriched ads (1.6%) mention a problem against a 1.6% median, so it fails the ad test. Younger years have had less time to collect complaints, and 2023 to 2026 have no enriched-ad data in our catalog. No year is flagged.

What happens at what mileage

Miles	Item	Cost	Notes
any	1.5L fuel injector cracks and leaks fuel (recalls 22V859000 and repeats 24V187000, 25V165000, 25V467000)	Free at a Ford dealer; Ford extended the warranty on cracked injectors to 15 years	The recall covers 2020-2022 Escapes with the 1.5L engine. Consumer Reports and Ford both describe a fuel leak into the engine compartment. Cars repaired under the first campaign were later recalled again, so confirm the latest status by VIN.
any	Hybrid high voltage battery failure (22V331000, 22V149000, 24V954000; plug-in hybrid 26V091000)	Free at a Ford dealer when open	The recalls describe battery cell defects that may cause a sudden loss of drive power. CarFactBase notes dealers replace the high voltage battery free for the 2020 recall. Check the VIN on any hybrid or plug-in.
any	Other recalls on file: 2.5L hybrid engine failure and oil release (22V484000, 23V380000, 25V345000), 1.5L oil separator housing (22V191000), hybrid control module software (24V330000), cylinder head ball plugs (25V372000, 2023-2025)	Free at a Ford dealer when open	22V484000: in an engine failure, oil and fuel vapor may reach hot parts and start a fire. Confirm each by VIN.

Buying one — check these

Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and confirm the fuel injector and hybrid battery work was done.
On a 1.5L car, ask for proof of the injector repair and look for fuel smell in the engine bay.
On a hybrid or plug-in, ask about battery warnings and test both electric and engine modes.

2020 to 2025 Escapes in our catalog clear around $12,898-24,597 depending on year (612 cleared sales). The lowest yearly median is 2020 and the highest is 2025. 2026 has only 3 cleared sales, so we do not read it.

Full Gen 4 (2020-present) guide →

The wider family

Variant	Years	What it means for a buyer
Escape Hybrid	2005-2012 and 2020 onward (per NHTSA records)	NHTSA lists the hybrid under ESCAPE HYBRID for 2005-2010, ESCAPE HEV for 2011-2012 and 2020 onward, with large overlap with the plain Escape records. We count each complaint once. NHTSA recall 14V526000 covers a hybrid coolant pump that may fail on 2005-2008 hybrids. We do not price hybrid battery repairs separately.
Escape Plug-in Hybrid	2020 onward (per NHTSA records)	Filed under ESCAPE PHEV. NHTSA recall 26V091000 covers high voltage battery cell defects on 2022-2026 plug-in hybrids.

The receipts — complaint & mention data

the story above, validated by two independent sources: federal complaints (NHTSA) + what sellers mention in 3621 real ads from our catalog

What sellers mention in their own ads

Issue	Ads mentioning	Rate
rust	180/3621	5.0%
electrical	81/3621	2.2%
transmission	53/3621	1.5%
engine replaced	24/3621	0.7%
hybrid battery	8/3621	0.2%
suspension	6/3621	0.2%
timing chain	5/3621	0.1%
egr	5/3621	0.1%
ac failure	5/3621	0.1%
oil consumption	3/3621	0.1%
brake actuator	3/3621	0.1%

These are mentions, not confirmed failures — a seller writing "hybrid battery just replaced" and one writing "needs hybrid battery" both count. High rates mean the issue is common enough that sellers address it unprompted.

Federal complaints by model year (NHTSA)

complaint volume spikes show where problems cluster — higher bars, more owner pain

Year	Complaints	Top components
2001	1,027	Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train, Service Brakes, Hydraulic
2002	1,070	Engine And Engine Cooling, Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Power Train
2003	598	Vehicle Speed Control, Structure, Power Train
2004	499	Vehicle Speed Control, Suspension, Structure
2005	1,584	Suspension,structure, Suspension, Structure
2006	720	Service Brakes, Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control
2007	393	Service Brakes, Power Train, Engine
2008	2,417	Steering, Power Train, Service Brakes
2009	1,846	Steering, Power Train, Service Brakes
2010	2,130	Steering, Power Train, Vehicle Speed Control
2011	1,356	Steering, Power Train, Fuel/propulsion System
2012	619	Steering, Fuel/propulsion System, Structure
2013	2,757	Engine, Steering, Power Train
2014	2,089	Engine, Power Train, Engine And Engine Cooling
2015	1,134	Power Train, Back Over Prevention, Engine
2016	1,175	Power Train, Back Over Prevention, Engine
2017	2,701	Engine, Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train
2018	1,822	Engine, Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train
2019	599	Engine, Power Train, Engine And Engine Cooling
2020	1,839	Structure, Unknown Or Other, Power Train
2021	382	Structure, Unknown Or Other, Fuel System, Gasoline
2022	386	Engine, Fuel System, Gasoline, Service Brakes
2023	139	Electrical System, Power Train, Engine
2024	89	Electrical System, Unknown Or Other, Engine
2025	31	Unknown Or Other, Electrical System, Engine And Engine Cooling
2026	4	Electrical System,service Brakes,engine, Electrical...

total: 29,406 complaints on file · source: NHTSA complaints database (api.nhtsa.gov)

Recalls (99 campaigns)

Show all recall campaigns

Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:floor Shift 15V606000 · 29/09/2015

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured March 31, 2001, to September 1, 2009. The affected vehicles are equipped with either a 2.3L...

Steering:electric Power Assist System 14V284000 · 29/05/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder 07E023000 · 29/03/2007

CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT...

Seats:front Assembly:recliner 19V633000 · 28/08/2019

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles...

Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:linkages 00V387002 · 27/11/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE CAN DISENGAGE DUE TO A BROKEN BALL SOCKET.

Back Over Prevention:software 25V442000 · 27/06/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator,...

Engine 23V380000 · 27/05/2023

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2022-2023 Maverick, and 2021-2023 Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel...

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine 17V209000 · 27/03/2017

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Escape, 2014-2015 Fiesta ST, 2013-2014 Fusion and 2013-2015 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. If the vehicle is started and driven with an...

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump 16V777000 · 26/10/2016

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to...

Air Bags 14V597000 · 26/09/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013;...

Engine And Engine Cooling 12V353000 · 26/07/2012

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control manufactured from October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004. Inadequate clearance...

Air Bags:knee Bolster 17V398000 · 26/06/2017

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 Ford Escape vehicles. The driver's knee airbag modules installed in these vehicles were produced without the inflator gas generant material, and, as a result, the...

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings 13V584000 · 25/11/2013

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine subject to prior safety recall NHTSA 12V-336. ...

Engine 13V583000 · 25/11/2013

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through June 2, 2013 and equipped with 1.6L engines. The affected vehicles may experience localized...

Seat Belts 17V472000 · 25/07/2017

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Ford F-150 and E-350, 2014-2015 Ford Escape, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles. Improperly manufactured bolts may have been used to install certain seats, seatbacks,...

Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication 22V191000 · 25/03/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. The engine oil separator housing may crack and develop an oil leak.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper 21V922000 · 24/11/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles. The rear brake linings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can affect braking performance. As such, these...

Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls 16V617000 · 24/08/2016

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2017 Ford Escape Titanium and SE vehicles manufactured October 5, 2015, to May 12, 2016. The settings for the closing-force of the power-operated windows may...

Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel 15V406000 · 24/06/2015

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured May 19, 2014, to February 6, 2015, and Transit Connect vehicles manufactured May 11, 2014, to July 2, 2015. Due...

Power Train:automatic Transmission 10V222000 · 24/05/2010

FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, MILAN, AND ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 27, THROUGH MARCH 26, 2010. THE PARK ROD GUIDE RETENTION PIN MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY INSTALLED WHICH FAILS...

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera 20V575000 · 23/09/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor...

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:injectors 24V634000 · 23/08/2024

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...

Engine 25V345000 · 23/05/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2021-2023 Corsair, and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V380. In the...

Electrical System 25V343000 · 23/05/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2023-2025 Escape, 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2025 Lincoln Corsair, Maverick, and Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L MPC engine and...

Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel 23V506000 · 21/07/2023

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Escape, Super Duty F-250, Super Duty F-350, Super Duty F-450, and Super Duty F-550 vehicles equipped with a digital instrument panel cluster. The module may have...

Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery:management System/energy Control Module (Bms/becm) 24V954000 · 20/12/2024

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short...

Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch 04V602000 · 20/12/2004

CERTAIN 2004-2005 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND CERTAIN 2001-2003 SPORT UTIITY VEHICLE HAVING REAR LIFTGATE COMPONENTS SERVICED WITH 2004 EQUIVALENT COMPONENTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR...

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System 22V859000 · 19/11/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Air Bags:side/window 17V803000 · 18/12/2017

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery 00V277001 · 18/09/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE O-RING SEALS IN THE FUEL LINE CONNECTOR AT THE OUTLET END OF THE FUEL FILTER WERE DAMAGED WHEN THE LINE WAS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY. IN SOME...

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings 12V336000 · 18/07/2012

Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine. These vehicles have an engine compartment fuel line which may...

Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery 26V091000 · 18/02/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Ford Escape and 2023-2026 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an...

Air Bags:side/window 20V415000 · 17/07/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape and Transit vehicles. The affected vehicles may have an improperly crimped diffuser in the side curtain air bags which may result in the diffuser detaching...

Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever And Linkage:floor Shift 18V471000 · 16/07/2018

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Escape, and 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles, equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to...

Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater 26V011000 · 16/01/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to...

Electrical System:body Control Module/bcm 20V635000 · 15/10/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with a key-start ignition system. The Body Control Module (BCM) intermittently may not pick up the signal from the rear Tire Pressure...

Power Train:driveline:driveshaft 21V011000 · 15/01/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit...

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 25V787000 · 14/11/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Maverick and Escape vehicles. The cover for the electric brake booster's ECU may cause the printed circuit board to overheat and result in a loss of vehicle...

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera 25V695000 · 14/10/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang...

Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control 24V440000 · 14/06/2024

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.

Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl) 22V254000 · 14/04/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 Escape vehicles equipped with 2.0L engines. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System 25V165000 · 14/03/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 22V-859 or 24V-187. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel...

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera 25V161000 · 14/03/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Escape vehicles. The rearview camera may incorrectly display an inverted image when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the...

Power Train:automatic Transmission:internal:park Pawl 26V301000 · 13/05/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Escape and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The integrated park module may fail to lock into the park position when the driver shifts into park. As such, these vehicles...

Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery 22V331000 · 13/05/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L hybrid powertrains. Insufficient welds inside the high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a loss of...

Seat Belts:rear/other:retractor 25V862000 · 12/12/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Corsair and Escape vehicles. The seat belt retractors for the left and right rear passenger seats may not be securely fastened.

Wheels:hubcap/cover 00V260001 · 12/09/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SOME 4X2 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN ANTILOCK BRAKING SYSTEM MAY HAVE INADVERTENTLY BEEN BUILT WITH 4X4 REAR HUBS INSTEAD OF 4X2 HUBS. IF THE INCORRECT HUBS ARE INSTALLED ON A...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings 18V104000 · 12/02/2018

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape and Lincoln MKC vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with incorrect front brake hoses that may chafe against other components, possibly resulting...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:pads 25V693000 · 11/10/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape vehicles. The rear brake pads may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can reduce brake function in the event of a brake booster malfunction. As such,...

Electrical System:wiring 14V495000 · 11/08/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to April 1, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines and Focus ST vehicles manufactured February 14,...

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System 25V467000 · 11/07/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/pcm/tecm) 24V330000 · 11/05/2024

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...

Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery 22V149000 · 11/03/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Corsair and 2021-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.5L Hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.

Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery 21V869000 · 10/11/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 Escape vehicle equipped with a 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.

Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater 25V685000 · 10/10/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick...

Power Train:automatic Transmission 20V550000 · 10/09/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Edge, Transit Connect and Lincoln MKX and 2020 Escape and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing or loose bolts.

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump:control/drive Module 21V625000 · 10/08/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result...

Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl) 22V413000 · 10/06/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module 07V156000 · 10/04/2007

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTILOCK BRAKES (ABS), THE ABS MODULE CONNECTOR MAY HAVE MISSING OR DISLODGED WIRE SEALS. THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW CONTAMINATION TO ENTER THE MODULE CONNECTOR,...

Tires 21V155000 · 10/03/2021

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 F-150, 2018-2020 F-250, F-350, and 2019 Escape vehicles equipped with Continental tires. On the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured...

Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:motor 05V520000 · 09/11/2005

ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, PASSENGER CARS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITHOUT GREASE BEING APPLIED TO THE OUTPUT SHAFT GEAR.

Vehicle Speed Control 00V210001 · 09/08/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL. THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE CAN HAVE A CRACKED OR MISSING SPEED CONTROL CABLE SERVO CAP LOCATING TAB. THE LOCATING TAB COULD ENTER THE SERVO...

Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls 26V374000 · 09/06/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Escape vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 16V617. The power-operated windows may exert excessive force when encountering an object, before...

Back Over Prevention:software 25V315000 · 09/05/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger,...

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump 15V005000 · 09/01/2015

Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the agency on January 8, 2015, that they are recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 15, 2014, to May 8, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module 12V005000 · 09/01/2012

FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2001-2002 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 22, 1999, THROUGH JULY 19, 2002, EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR CAP THAT COULD LEAK BRAKE FLUID. IF BRAKE...

Equipment:other:labels 24V852000 · 08/11/2024

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be...

Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel 24V850000 · 08/11/2024

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Escape vehicles. The passenger side instrument panel cover may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause the air bag not to deploy as intended. As...

Steering: Steering Wheel/handle Bar 00V223001 · 08/08/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A MIS-ASSEMBLED OR INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED NUT THAT ATTACHES THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY TO THE STEERING COLUMN. THE NUT COULD BE UPSIDE...

Electrical System:ignition 15V436000 · 08/07/2015

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 1, 2014, to June 12, 2015, Ford Focus vehicles manufactured June 17, 2014, to June 12, 2015, and Ford C-Max...

Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch 20V331000 · 08/06/2020

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. ...

Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System 24V187000 · 08/03/2024

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Vehicle Speed Control:cables 04V574000 · 07/12/2004

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES BUILT WITH 3.0L V6 ENGINES, THE ACCELERATOR CABLE MAY PREVENT THE THROTTLE FROM RETURNING TO THE IDLE POSITION.

Engine And Engine Cooling 22V484000 · 07/07/2022

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair, and 2022 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel...

Structure:body:door 14V239000 · 07/05/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through April 10, 2014. Due to an assembly misalignment between the exterior door handle and the door...

Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control Module-Inactive 14V237000 · 07/05/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may...

Seats:front Assembly:head Restraint 06V111000 · 07/04/2006

CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITHOUT SIDE AIR CURTAINS OR MOONROOFS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." DURING...

Latches/locks/linkages 13V085000 · 07/03/2013

Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012, through November...

Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch 16V643000 · 06/09/2016

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component...

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals And Linkages 12V319000 · 06/07/2012

FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 8, 2012 THROUGH JUNE 7, 2012. DUE TO MIS-POSITIONED CARPET PADDING THE CENTER CONSOLE TRIM PANEL MAY BE PUSHED OUTBOARD OF THE...

Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/pcm/tecm) 04V165000 · 06/04/2004

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.0L V6 ENGINES, DURING DECELERATION, THE ENGINE CAN STALL.

Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly 03V507000 · 05/12/2003

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A POST WITHIN THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE COVERS COULD FRACTURE, WHICH COULD AFFECT LATCH FUNCTION, RESULTING IN EITHER A "NO LATCH" OR "PARTIAL LATCH" CONDITION. IN THE "PARTIAL LATCH"...

Engine And Engine Cooling 12V431000 · 04/09/2012

Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through August 31, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. The cylinder head cup plug (freeze plug) may become dislodged...

Engine 25V372000 · 04/06/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Escape, and 2025 Bronco Sport vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.

Back Over Prevention:software 26V123000 · 04/03/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly...

Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:gas Recirculation Valve (Egr Valve) 26V122000 · 04/03/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ranger, Lincoln Nautilus, Mustang, Maverick, Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Corsair, Bronco Sport, and Bronco vehicles. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may...

Engine And Engine Cooling 12V551000 · 03/12/2012

This is an update to a recently announced recall. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through November 26, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines, as well as...

Hybrid Propulsion System 14V526000 · 03/09/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicles manufactured October 13, 2003, to June 20, 2008, and 2006-2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid electric vehicles...

Equipment 10E043000 · 03/09/2010

MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE...

Suspension:front:wheel Bearing 15E045000 · 03/06/2015

The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011...

Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer:motor 26V117000 · 03/03/2026

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:hinge And Attachments 25V829000 · 02/12/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2025 Escape vehicles. The liftgate hinge covers may not be properly secured and detach from the vehicle.

Electrical System:wiring 15V813000 · 02/12/2015

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured January 11, 2012, to April 1, 2013, and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles manufactured May 03, 2012, to October 14, 2013. ...

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery 14V525000 · 02/09/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Focus vehicles manufactured May 1, 2014, to May 24, 2014, 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured on June 6, 2014, and 2015 Lincoln MKC vehicles...

Visibility:sun/moon Roof Assembly 14V403000 · 02/07/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 15, 2013, through October 22, 2013. The panorama roof glass may not be properly bonded to the attaching bracket.

Structure:frame And Members 14V165000 · 02/04/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2004 Escape vehicles manufactured October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004, originally sold, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware,...

Seats:front Assembly:recliner 14V164000 · 02/04/2014

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5,...

Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/pcm/tecm) 25V133000 · 01/03/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-330. The Hybrid Powertrain Control...

Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel 25V049000 · 01/02/2025

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Bronco Sport, Escape, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) may not illuminate at startup or while driving. As such, these vehicles...

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Questions people actually ask

What Ford Escape years should you avoid?

We don't tell you to skip a year; we flag by a fixed rule, and no Escape year trips it. Third-party lists often name 2013, 2014 and 2008. 2013 has 6.86 NHTSA complaints per catalog listing (2,757 across 402 listings) against a 2013-2019 median of 3.95, which is 1.7 times and short of our 2.0x cutoff. 2008 has 15.90 (2,417 across 152) against a 2008-2012 median of 11.70, 1.4 times. 2020 has 6.89 (1,839 across 267) against a 2020-present median of 2.17, but only 3 of 192 ads (1.6%) mention a problem against a 1.6% median, so it is not flagged.

How much does an Escape transmission replacement cost?

For the 6F35 automatic in 2013-2019 cars, CarComplaints averages are $4,460 at 77,850 miles (2013, 28 complaints) and $4,210 at 84,900 miles (2014, 64 complaints). One forum owner paid $4,200 for a remanufactured unit with labor and warranty on a 2014 SE at about 120,000 miles. Those are complaining owners' costs, not shop quotes.

Do Ford Escapes have coolant leaking into the cylinders?

Turbo 2013-2019 Escapes have drawn such complaints. CarComplaints lists 22 for the 2017 with an average repair of $6,620 at 74,850 miles, and 5 for the 2018 at $5,250 and 97,100 miles. Avturo puts an independent-shop repair at $4,000-$7,000 and says no safety recall covered it on 2018 cars. The 1.6L has separate cylinder head recalls (12V431000, 13V583000, 17V209000).

What is the Ford Escape power steering problem?

On 2008-2011 Escapes, NHTSA recall 14V284000 covers a steering torque sensor that may fail to detect driver input, which could remove electric power assist. CarComplaints counts 105 complaints for the 2008 with an average repair of $1,260 at 108,100 miles. The recall repair is free at a Ford dealer when open.

Is the 2020 Ford Escape with the 1.5L engine safe to buy?

Ford recalled 2020-2022 Escapes with the 1.5L for cracked fuel injectors that may leak fuel inside the engine compartment (Consumer Reports). The repair is free, and Ford extended the warranty on cracked injectors to 15 years (Ford). Cars repaired under the first campaign were recalled again, so check the VIN for the latest status.

Does NHTSA count the Escape Hybrid and Plug-in separately?

Yes, NHTSA files them under names like ESCAPE HYBRID, ESCAPE HEV and ESCAPE PHEV, and many complaints are listed under more than one. For 2008, ESCAPE and ESCAPE HYBRID each show 2,417 records because they overlap, so the union is 2,417. We count each complaint once.