According to Au7o's analysis of 13,296+ owner reports, the 2001-2025 Ford Escape has 15 documented known issues, with 10 rated critical. The most serious are Side Door Latch Failure - Door May Open While Driving ($0-$0 repair), Automatic Transmission Failure and Loss of Drive ($100-$4,500 repair), Cruise Control Cable / Throttle Sticking and Unintended Acceleration ($150-$700 repair), ABS Module Brake Fluid Leak and Underhood Fire Risk ($150-$1,800 repair), 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Engine Block Porosity ($0-$6,500 repair), Front Subframe Rust and Lower Control Arm Separation ($1,500-$3,500 repair), 2.0L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion - Open-Deck Block Design Failure ($0-$9,500 repair), 2.5L Hybrid Engine Block / Oil Pan Breach - Underhood Fire Risk (Recall 23S27) ($0-$0 repair), Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion and Fuel Tank Drop Risk ($250-$900 repair) and . Across all issues, repair costs range from $40 to $9,500. at .
On the 2001-2004 Ford Escape, a strong complaint pattern on 2001-2004 Escapes involves the throttle sticking open or engine speed hanging high, sometimes after full pedal application or in cold weather. Owners describe the vehicle continuing to accelerate after lifting off the pedal, very high idle, backfiring, and difficulty slowing the vehicle; this aligns with recalls involving the speed control cable and later throttle-related fire concerns on V6 models.
Common Symptoms
Accelerator pedal sticks
Vehicle keeps accelerating after pedal release
Idle surges to 3000-4000 RPM
Hard to slow down without shifting to neutral
Backfiring or erratic throttle response
How to Fix
Inspect the throttle body, throttle cable linkage, cruise control cable/servo cap, return spring action, and throttle plate for binding or contamination. Repairs may include replacing the cruise control cable, cleaning or replacing the throttle body, and adjusting or replacing the accelerator cable/linkage. Typical cost is about $150-$700 depending on whether only cleaning is needed or multiple cable/throttle components must be replaced.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 2,077+ owners who fixed this issue
TipIf the engine races unexpectedly, shift to neutral and brake firmly; do not continue driving until the throttle linkage is inspected.
UpgradeReplacing a worn or binding throttle body can cure persistent sticking and unstable idle that cleaning does not fix. (Dorman Throttle Body)
High Confidence2,077 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
Community Reported
1,240 owners
On the 2017-2022 Ford Escape, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine in 2017-2022 Ford Escapes suffers from a critical design defect where coolant leaks internally into the combustion cylinders. Ford engineers determined the engine block is made of porous material with an insufficient sealing surface between cylinders. The open-deck block design with scored passages between the inboard cylinders creates a weak point that cannot sustain 21 psi of coolant pressure over time. The cylinder head warps, the head gasket fails, and coolant floods the cylinders causing hydrolocking or catastrophic engine failure. Ford acknowledged this with TSBs 19-2139 and 19-2375, and extended warranty coverage to 7 years/84,000 miles for short block replacement. A class action lawsuit (consolidated) covers 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2019 Fusion, and other EcoBoost-equipped vehicles.
White or blue smoke from exhaust, especially on startup
Engine misfires and rough running (coolant in cylinders)
Check engine light with misfire codes (P0300-P0304)
Coolant level drops with no visible external leak
Sweet smell from exhaust
Engine overheating
Oil appears milky or frothy from coolant mixing
Engine no-start after coolant hydrolocks cylinder
How to Fix
Ford extended warranty covers short block replacement for 7 years/84,000 miles from warranty start date. Dealer must replace the short block and head gasket per TSB procedure. Ford redesigned the block in April 2019 with a closed-deck configuration to resolve the issue. Check recall 23S27 separately for 2020-2023 2.5L hybrid engine fire risk. Verify coverage at fordowner.com or dealer with VIN.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,240+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteFord extended warranty covers short block replacement 7 years/84,000 miles. Check fordowner.com or call 1-800-392-3673 with your VIN before paying out of pocket. Thousands of owners got free engine replacements.
TipDo NOT ignore white exhaust smoke or dropping coolant level - this engine can hydrolock and be destroyed within minutes of coolant fully breaching the cylinder. Stop driving immediately if symptoms appear.
NoteIf your 2020-2023 Escape has the 2.5L hybrid, check for separate recall 23S27 (engine block breach / fire risk). The 1.5L and 2.5L hybrid have different failure modes but both are serious.
High Confidence1,240 reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
830 owners
On the 2015-2019 Ford Escape 2.0L EcoBoost, the 2.0L EcoBoost in 2015-2019 Ford Escape suffers from the same fundamental open-deck block design defect as the 1.5L variant. Coolant leaks internally through the cylinder head/block interface into the combustion chambers. Ford issued TSB 19-2208 in 2019 (later updated to TSB 22-2229 in 2022) acknowledging the problem. The fix per TSB requires complete long block engine replacement costing $7,000-$10,000 at dealers. Ford redesigned the block in 2019 with a closed-deck layout, so 2020+ 2.0L engines are not affected by this specific issue. Class action lawsuits are pending covering 2013-2019 EcoBoost vehicles.
Ford TSB 19-2208 / TSB 22-2229 - replace engine long block. Check if vehicle qualifies for Ford extended warranty coverage (7 years/84,000 miles for short block repairs from TSB). If out of warranty, independent engine shops can perform block repair but Ford recommends full replacement. Rebuilt long blocks from Ford are approximately $4,500-$5,500 plus 8-10 hours labor.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 830+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteTSB 22-2229 (updated from 19-2208) is your key document - bring it to the dealer. Ford covers short block replacement under extended warranty 7 yr/84k miles. Get this in writing before agreeing to any repair.
TipCheck coolant level every week if you suspect this issue - the first symptom is often just a mysteriously low coolant reservoir. White smoke on cold starts is a strong indicator even before the level drops noticeably.
TipJoin the consolidated class action lawsuit at lieffcabraser.com/defect/ford-coolant/ if you paid out of pocket for coolant/engine repairs on a 2013-2019 EcoBoost Escape. You may be eligible for reimbursement.
High Confidence830 reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
380 owners
On the 2020-2023 Ford Escape, certain 2020-2023 Ford Escape HEV and PHEV models equipped with the 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine can suffer from isolated manufacturing defects that cause the engine block or oil pan to breach. When this occurs, significant quantities of engine oil and/or fuel vapor are released into the hot engine bay, creating an underhood fire risk. The failure affects engines manufactured on or before September 1, 2022. Ford issued Safety Recall 23S27 (NHTSA 23V380000) to address this. No engine block breaches have been reported on engines built after September 1, 2022.
Loud metal-to-metal clanking noise from engine (primary warning before failure)
Smoke or fire from engine compartment
Oil or fuel smell under hood
Oil pressure warning light
Sudden engine failure
Check engine light with multiple codes
How to Fix
Ford Safety Recall 23S27 provides free dealer inspection and repair. Affected vehicles should not be operated until inspected. Dealers inspect the engine and replace it if a manufacturing defect is found. Call Ford at 1-833-807-3673 and reference recall 23S27. Check recall status at fordowner.com with VIN.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 380+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteThis is a SAFETY RECALL - do not ignore it. Underhood fires have been reported. Check fordowner.com with your VIN immediately if you have a 2020-2022 Escape hybrid. Recall 23S27 / NHTSA 23V380000.
TipIf you hear loud metal-on-metal clanking from the engine, stop driving immediately and call for a tow. Do not attempt to drive to the dealer.
TipCall Ford Customer Service at 1-833-807-3673 and reference 23S27 to check if your VIN is affected. Recall repairs are free and dealers must prioritize safety recall work.
High Confidence380 reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
Community Reported
1,645 owners
On the 2001-2002 Ford Escape, many complaints describe the engine shaking, stumbling, stalling in Drive, or losing power without warning, especially under load or when cold. Reports also mention rough idle, misfire-like shuddering, poor fuel economy, and dashboard lights illuminating before the vehicle dies or restarts poorly.
Common Symptoms
Engine shakes or shudders
Stalls while in Drive or at stops
Loss of power on highway or hills
Rough idle when cold
Poor fuel economy with misfire behavior
How to Fix
Diagnosis should focus on ignition and air/fuel basics: scan for misfire data, inspect spark plugs and coils, check vacuum leaks, clean the throttle body, and verify fuel delivery. Common fixes include plugs, ignition coils, idle/throttle cleaning, and fuel system service; more involved cases may require sensor replacement or intake leak repair. Typical repair cost ranges from $150-$900 depending on whether the issue is tune-up related or requires deeper diagnosis.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,645+ owners who fixed this issue
UpgradeFresh spark plugs are a common first step for rough running and cold misfire complaints. (NGK Iridium Spark Plugs)
High Confidence1,645 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
Community Reported
2,383 owners
On the 2013-2015 Ford Escape, the 2013-2015 Ford Escape is subject to a major safety recall affecting side door latches. The pawl spring tab inside the door latch can fracture due to stress in high-temperature/humidity climates, causing the door to not close properly or to open unexpectedly while driving. Ford expanded this recall multiple times, ultimately covering approximately 2.38 million vehicles including Escape, Focus, C-MAX, Mustang, and Lincoln MKC. The latch itself typically fails silently - the door may appear closed but is not fully latched, creating an ejection risk for occupants.
Door that bounces back when trying to close (will not latch)
Door ajar warning light or chime while driving with door apparently closed
Door opens unexpectedly while driving
Wind noise from door area that should be closed
Door handle feels different or loose when opening
How to Fix
Ford Safety Recall 14S17 / 16V643 - dealers replace all affected side door latches at no charge. Check NHTSA safercar.gov or fordowner.com with VIN to confirm recall status. Free repair must be completed regardless of mileage or ownership history.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 2,383+ owners who fixed this issue
NoteCheck safercar.gov or fordowner.com with your VIN immediately - this recall covers 2.38 million vehicles. Dealers replace door latches free. Ford reported 3 injuries related to this defect.
TipEven if your door appears to close normally, get the recall done. The failure can happen suddenly without warning - latch can fracture in hot weather climates especially.
NoteIf a door refuses to latch shut, do not drive the vehicle. Use a zip tie through the latch as a temporary emergency measure only - then get towed to dealer for warranty repair immediately.
TipCheck NHTSA.gov for active recalls — repairs are performed free at authorized dealers
High Confidence2,383 reportsLast reported by owners May 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2001 Ford Escape, the recall history documents a known failure of the windshield wiper linkage ball socket, which can disengage and cause the wipers to stop working. While complaint examples in the provided set are limited, this is a documented safety defect for early Escapes because it reduces visibility in rain or snow.
Common Symptoms
Wipers stop moving suddenly
Only one wiper arm moves
Wiper motor runs but blades do not sweep
Poor visibility during rain due to inoperative wipers
How to Fix
Inspect the wiper transmission/linkage for looseness, disconnected sockets, or cracked plastic joints. Replace the complete linkage assembly if any play or separation is found, since partial repairs are often temporary. Typical repair cost is about $150-$400 including parts and labor.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
TipIf the wiper motor can be heard but the blades do not move, inspect the linkage before replacing the motor.
UpgradeA complete replacement linkage assembly is usually more reliable than trying to reattach a worn socket. (Dorman Windshield Wiper Linkage)
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
Community Reported
2,141 owners
On the 2001-2008 Ford Escape, complaints show a recurring pattern of automatic transmission failure on early Escapes, including harsh shifting, no movement in Drive, slipping, grinding, and in severe cases unexpected gear changes. Some owners report the transmission suddenly shifting abnormally at highway speed or losing the ability to stay in Park, creating both drivability and rollaway concerns.
Common Symptoms
Vehicle will not move in Drive
Harsh or incorrect shifting
Grinding noise from front/transmission area
Transmission slips or changes gears unexpectedly
Vehicle will not stay in Park
How to Fix
Diagnosis should include checking transmission fluid condition, shift cable/bushing integrity, range selector operation, and internal transmission damage. Repairs range from replacing the shift cable bushing or linkage to a full transmission rebuild/replacement if there is internal gear or clutch failure. Costs typically run from $100-$350 for linkage repairs up to $2,500-$4,500 for a remanufactured transmission installation.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 2,141+ owners who fixed this issue
TipIf the shifter position does not match actual gear engagement, inspect the shift cable bushing immediately before assuming the transmission itself has failed.
High Confidence2,141 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
On the 2020-2025 Ford Escape, the 2020+ Ford Escape Hybrid uses a CVT that develops shuddering and jerking during low-speed driving and light acceleration. Owners report the transmission feels like it is "hunting" for the right ratio, with noticeable hesitation between 15-35 mph. The issue is most pronounced in stop-and-go traffic and when transitioning between electric and gas power. Some vehicles have had the transmission replaced under warranty.
Have the dealer perform a TCM (Transmission Control Module) software update first, as Ford has released calibration updates that improve shift quality. If the software update does not resolve the issue, a CVT fluid change may help. Persistent cases may require valve body or full transmission replacement under the powertrain warranty ($4,000-6,000 out of warranty).
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
Community Reported
1,373 owners
On the 2001-2002 Ford Escape, early Escape complaints show a clear pattern of brake fluid leaking from the master cylinder reservoir into the ABS module connector, leading to ABS warning lights, loss of braking assist, smoke, melted wiring, and in some cases underhood fires. Several owners specifically describe the ABS module burning while the vehicle was parked or shortly after operation.
Common Symptoms
ABS warning light stays on
Brake pedal drops to the floor or braking becomes difficult
Smoke or burning smell from under hood
ABS module or connector appears melted or burned
Brake fluid leakage near master cylinder/ABS unit
How to Fix
Inspect the brake master cylinder reservoir cap, fluid level sensor area, ABS hydraulic control unit, and electrical connector for leakage, corrosion, or heat damage. Repairs typically include the updated reservoir cap, ABS module/harness replacement, brake fluid cleanup, and sometimes fuse or underhood wiring repairs. Costs range from about $150 for preventive cap replacement to $1,800 or more if the ABS module and wiring are damaged.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,373+ owners who fixed this issue
TipIf the ABS light is on and there is any brake fluid residue near the master cylinder or ABS unit, stop driving until the leak is inspected.
UpgradeA replacement reservoir cap and connector pigtail can prevent repeat leakage and electrical damage when caught early. (Dorman ABS Connector/Pigtail Repair)
High Confidence1,373 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
Community Reported
1,225 owners
On the 2001-2004 Ford Escape, a major pattern in early Ford Escape complaints involves severe corrosion of the front subframe/crossmember, especially in salt-belt states. Owners report the lower control arm separating from the rusted subframe, causing sudden steering pull, wheel misalignment, clunking, and loss of control; some complaints also state the recall reinforcement bracket was insufficient once corrosion had already advanced.
Common Symptoms
Vehicle suddenly veers or pulls to one side
Steering wheel no longer aligns with wheel direction
Clunking or grinding from front end
Visible rust-through or flaking metal on subframe
Lower control arm separating from frame
How to Fix
Inspect the front engine cradle/subframe, lower control arm mounting points, and any recall-installed reinforcement brace for perforation, cracking, or separation. Mild corrosion may be addressed under recall remedies where applicable, but advanced rust usually requires full front subframe replacement plus alignment and often control arms/axles. Typical repair cost is about $1,500-$3,500 depending on rust severity and related suspension damage.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,225+ owners who fixed this issue
TipHave the front subframe and control arm mounts inspected on a lift before purchase, especially in rust-belt states.
UpgradeA complete replacement subframe or rust-free used cradle is often the only durable fix once perforation starts. (Dorman Front Suspension Crossmember)
High Confidence1,225 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
On the 2002 Ford Escape, complaint data for early second-year vehicles includes reports of fuel tank straps rotting away and allowing the fuel tank to fall or sag. This is a serious corrosion-related safety issue because it can damage fuel lines, create leaks, and leave the vehicle stranded.
Inspect both fuel tank retaining straps, mounting points, and surrounding underbody metal for rust scaling or perforation. Replace corroded straps and hardware immediately, and inspect the tank shell and fuel lines for abrasion or leakage if the tank has shifted. Typical repair cost is about $250-$900 depending on whether only straps are needed or the tank and lines were also damaged.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 2+ owners who fixed this issue
TipIn rust-prone areas, inspect the tank straps during every oil change because failure can occur before a leak is obvious.
UpgradeNew coated replacement straps are a safer long-term fix than patching heavily rusted originals. (Dorman Fuel Tank Strap)
Medium Confidence2 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
On the 2013-2022 Ford Escape, the 2013-2022 Escape uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack that can fail, causing heavy steering, intermittent loss of power assist, or a steering warning light. The EPS motor or torque sensor within the rack assembly can malfunction due to heat and electrical issues. When the system faults, the steering becomes extremely heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds. This is a safety concern particularly during parking maneuvers.
A software update may resolve intermittent EPS faults — have the dealer check for TSBs first. If the rack itself has failed, replacement is necessary. OEM rack costs $800-1,200; aftermarket remanufactured racks are $400-700. Labor is $300-500. Total repair: $700-1,700. Some owners have had success with cleaning the EPS motor connector and applying dielectric grease for intermittent failures.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
On the 2013-2022 Ford Escape, escapes equipped with the panoramic sunroof experience water leaks into the headliner and cabin, particularly during heavy rain or car washes. The issue stems from clogged sunroof drain tubes that run through the A and C pillars. When blocked with debris, water backs up and overflows into the headliner, dripping onto seats, electronics, and the floor. Prolonged leaking can damage the overhead console, SYNC module, and cause mold in the headliner foam.
SYNC or overhead console electrical issues after rain
How to Fix
Clear the four sunroof drain tubes using compressed air or a flexible wire — two in front (exit near front wheel wells) and two in rear (exit near rear bumper). Flush with water to confirm flow. For recurring clogs, install inline drain tube filters ($10-20). If the headliner is water-stained or moldy, it will need removal and cleaning or replacement ($300-800). Check drain tubes every spring as preventive maintenance.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
On the 2013-2019 Ford Escape, the 2013-2019 Escape power liftgate latch assembly frequently fails, causing the rear hatch to either not open, not close properly, or pop open while driving. The latch mechanism corrodes internally and the micro-switch fails, particularly in humid or salt belt environments. Ford issued a recall (17S32) for 2013-2015 models for latch failures that allowed the hatch to open while driving. Later model years experience the same failure pattern outside of recall coverage.
Clicking noise from latch area but hatch does not release
How to Fix
Replace the liftgate latch assembly. The OEM part costs $80-150 and aftermarket replacements are $40-80. Labor is $100-200 at a shop. DIY replacement takes about 30-45 minutes with basic tools — remove the interior trim panel, disconnect the electrical connector, and swap the latch. Apply dielectric grease to the electrical connector to prevent future corrosion.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
High Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date
⚠️NHTSA Recalls33 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
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 such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Campaign #24V85000008/11/2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
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 fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 102, "Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect" as well as FMVSS numbers 126, 108, 135, 138, 208, and 305.
Campaign #25V04900031/01/2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
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 requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
According to Au7o's analysis of 13,296+ owner reports, the 2001-2025 Ford Escape has 15 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Side Door Latch Failure - Door May Open While Driving, Automatic Transmission Failure and Loss of Drive, Cruise Control Cable / Throttle Sticking and Unintended Acceleration. Of these, 10 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Escape reliable?
The 2001-2025 Ford Escape has 15 known issues documented across 13,296+ owner reports. 10 issues are rated critical: Side Door Latch Failure - Door May Open While Driving and Automatic Transmission Failure and Loss of Drive and Cruise Control Cable / Throttle Sticking and Unintended Acceleration and ABS Module Brake Fluid Leak and Underhood Fire Risk and 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Engine Block Porosity and Front Subframe Rust and Lower Control Arm Separation and 2.0L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion - Open-Deck Block Design Failure and 2.5L Hybrid Engine Block / Oil Pan Breach - Underhood Fire Risk (Recall 23S27) and Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion and Fuel Tank Drop Risk and Electric Power Steering Rack Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Escape problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Escape issues range from $0 to $9,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Side Door Latch Failure - Door May Open While Driving, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Ford Escape is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Ford Escape. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2001-2025 Ford Escape with 15 documented issues documented across 13,296+ owner reports.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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 an engine block heater. The engine block heater may overheat when the vehicle is parked with the block heater plugged in.
Campaign #25V34300023/05/2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
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 fail, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
What is the 2013-2015 Ford Escape Side Door Latch Failure - Door May Open While Driving?
The 2013-2015 Ford Escape is subject to a major safety recall affecting side door latches. The pawl spring tab inside the door latch can fracture due to stress in high-temperature/humidity climates, causing the door to not close properly or to open unexpectedly while driving. For… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2008 Ford Escape Automatic Transmission Failure and Loss of Drive?
Complaints show a recurring pattern of automatic transmission failure on early Escapes, including harsh shifting, no movement in Drive, slipping, grinding, and in severe cases unexpected gear changes. Some owners report the transmission suddenly shifting abnormally at highway spe… Repairs typically run $100-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2004 Ford Escape Cruise Control Cable / Throttle Sticking and Unintended Acceleration?
A strong complaint pattern on 2001-2004 Escapes involves the throttle sticking open or engine speed hanging high, sometimes after full pedal application or in cold weather. Owners describe the vehicle continuing to accelerate after lifting off the pedal, very high idle, backfirin… Repairs typically run $150-$700. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2002 Ford Escape ABS Module Brake Fluid Leak and Underhood Fire Risk?
Early Escape complaints show a clear pattern of brake fluid leaking from the master cylinder reservoir into the ABS module connector, leading to ABS warning lights, loss of braking assist, smoke, melted wiring, and in some cases underhood fires. Several owners specifically descri… Repairs typically run $150-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2022 Ford Escape 1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders - Engine Block Porosity?
The 1.5L EcoBoost engine in 2017-2022 Ford Escapes suffers from a critical design defect where coolant leaks internally into the combustion cylinders. Ford engineers determined the engine block is made of porous material with an insufficient sealing surface between cylinders. The… Repairs typically run $0-$6,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2004 Ford Escape Front Subframe Rust and Lower Control Arm Separation?
A major pattern in early Ford Escape complaints involves severe corrosion of the front subframe/crossmember, especially in salt-belt states. Owners report the lower control arm separating from the rusted subframe, causing sudden steering pull, wheel misalignment, clunking, and lo… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2019 Ford Escape 2.0L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion - Open-Deck Block Design Failure?
The 2.0L EcoBoost in 2015-2019 Ford Escape suffers from the same fundamental open-deck block design defect as the 1.5L variant. Coolant leaks internally through the cylinder head/block interface into the combustion chambers. Ford issued TSB 19-2208 in 2019 (later updated to TSB 2… Repairs typically run $0-$9,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2023 Ford Escape 2.5L Hybrid Engine Block / Oil Pan Breach - Underhood Fire Risk (Recall 23S27)?
Certain 2020-2023 Ford Escape HEV and PHEV models equipped with the 2.5L Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine can suffer from isolated manufacturing defects that cause the engine block or oil pan to breach. When this occurs, significant quantities of engine oil and/or fuel vapor are rele… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2002 Ford Escape Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion and Fuel Tank Drop Risk?
Complaint data for early second-year vehicles includes reports of fuel tank straps rotting away and allowing the fuel tank to fall or sag. This is a serious corrosion-related safety issue because it can damage fuel lines, create leaks, and leave the vehicle stranded. Repairs typically run $250-$900. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2022 Ford Escape Electric Power Steering Rack Failure?
The 2013-2022 Escape uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack that can fail, causing heavy steering, intermittent loss of power assist, or a steering warning light. The EPS motor or torque sensor within the rack assembly can malfunction due to heat and electrical issues. When t… Repairs typically run $100-$1,700. Severity: high.
What is the 2001-2002 Ford Escape Engine Stalling, Misfire, and Loss of Power?
Many complaints describe the engine shaking, stumbling, stalling in Drive, or losing power without warning, especially under load or when cold. Reports also mention rough idle, misfire-like shuddering, poor fuel economy, and dashboard lights illuminating before the vehicle dies o… Repairs typically run $150-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2022 Ford Escape Panoramic Sunroof Water Leak Into Cabin?
Escapes equipped with the panoramic sunroof experience water leaks into the headliner and cabin, particularly during heavy rain or car washes. The issue stems from clogged sunroof drain tubes that run through the A and C pillars. When blocked with debris, water backs up and overf… Repairs typically run $0-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Ford Escape CVT Transmission Shudder and Jerking (2020+ Hybrid)?
The 2020+ Ford Escape Hybrid uses a CVT that develops shuddering and jerking during low-speed driving and light acceleration. Owners report the transmission feels like it is "hunting" for the right ratio, with noticeable hesitation between 15-35 mph. The issue is most pronounced… Repairs typically run $0-$6,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2001 Ford Escape Windshield Wiper Linkage Failure?
The recall history documents a known failure of the windshield wiper linkage ball socket, which can disengage and cause the wipers to stop working. While complaint examples in the provided set are limited, this is a documented safety defect for early Escapes because it reduces vi… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2019 Ford Escape Liftgate Latch Failure — Will Not Open or Close?
The 2013-2019 Escape power liftgate latch assembly frequently fails, causing the rear hatch to either not open, not close properly, or pop open while driving. The latch mechanism corrodes internally and the micro-switch fails, particularly in humid or salt belt environments. Ford… Repairs typically run $40-$350. Severity: medium.
