We’re taking a deep dive into the most common problems Ford Escape owners face across all generations.
From engine misfires to transmission troubles, we’ll cover it all and provide you with the information you need to keep your Escape running smoothly.
But if you’re on the lot looking at used Escapes and you need to know this minute, here’s your 15 second answer:
Ignition misfires and transmission failure are common issues across all Ford Escape generations. Blower motor resistor failure, causing the blower to only work on high, is another prevalent problem.
1st gen models (2001-2007) are prone to excessive wheel well and shock tower rust, especially in areas that use road salt.
The 2nd gen (2008-2012) is known for transfer case failure on 4WD models, leading to loss of power to the rear wheels.
3rd gen (2013-2019) Escapes with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine may experience overheating and cylinder head failure due to a design flaw.
The 4th gen (2020-present) has problems with oil and fuel vapor leaks in the engine compartment, leading to fire risks and recalls. Infotainment system malfunctions and excessive brake pedal pressure are also common complaints.
We’ll break down each problem, so you know what symptoms to watch for, what causes the issues, and how to fix them. But before we get started, let’s look at the data behind all of this.
We Used Real World Data To Create This List Of Problems
Before we dive into the most common problems, let’s quickly explain how we created this list.
First, we asked 268 owners (via Facebook) about their Ford Escape to get a feel for what kind of problems they’ve run into. Yes, it’s a small data set but it is real world data that’s hard to beat.
All owners had their Ford Escape for at least a year and we saw a wide range of mileage from 107,000 to 189,000.
Then, we turned to resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and many others, to review the most common complaints issues by owners along with the full history of recalls and active investigations.
Next, I fact-checked everything against my almost two decades of automotive experience working everywhere from dealerships to your local shops. Lastly, our team of automotive experts takes a closer look into each problem and breaks down why it happens, what you can do to prevent it, and how to fix it.
We review the data and interpret the results to make your life easier. Now that you understand how we came up with this list, let’s get into it!
What 268 Ford Escape Owners Told Us
Here’s what we found to be the most common problems based on our survey of 268 Ford Escape owners (click to expand):
31% of owners surveyed had a 3rd generation Escape (2013-2019), with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine overheating and cylinder head failure being the most prevalent issue. 27% of owners had a 4th generation Escape (2020-Present), reporting a higher frequency of oil and fuel vapor leaks in the engine compartment.
Problems Common To All Generations of Ford Escape
Engine Problems
Ignition Misfires
If your Ford Escape is experiencing ignition misfires, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common problems across all generations of the Escape. The culprit is usually a failed ignition coil, which can cause rough running, stumbling, and even stalling. In some cases, you might notice your check engine light flashing, and if you pull the codes, you’ll likely see P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, or P0304. These codes indicate a misfire on one or more cylinders.
Ignition coils are responsible for providing the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine, so when they fail, it can cause all sorts of drivability issues. This video does a great job explaining this common issue in depth:
The good news is that replacing the ignition coils is usually a pretty straightforward job, and it’s a lot cheaper than some of the other potential causes of misfires, like a bad fuel injector or a damaged piston.
Check Engine Light and Hesitation or Stumbling While Driving
Another common problem that affects all generations of the Ford Escape is a check engine light accompanied by hesitation or stumbling while driving. This can be caused by a few different things, but the most common culprits are a dirty throttle body, a faulty mass airflow (MAF) sensor, or a problem with the fuel system.
If you’re experiencing this issue, the first thing I recommend is to check the throttle body for carbon buildup. Over time, the throttle body can get gunked up with dirt and debris, which can cause the butterfly valve to stick and not open or close properly. Cleaning the throttle body with a specialized cleaner can often resolve the issue.
If cleaning the throttle body doesn’t help, the next step is to check the MAF sensor. The MAF sensor measures the amount of air flowing into the engine, and if it’s not reading correctly, it can cause the engine to run poorly. You can try cleaning the MAF sensor with a specialized cleaner, but if that doesn’t work, you’ll likely need to replace it.
Transmission Problems
Transmission Failure
Transmission failure is another common problem that affects all generations of the Ford Escape. This is a serious issue that can leave you stranded on the side of the road, and it’s not a cheap fix.
The most common cause of transmission failure is lack of maintenance, so if you’ve been skipping your transmission fluid changes, now might be a good time to start.
If you’re experiencing transmission problems, you might notice a few different symptoms. Your Escape might slip out of gear, especially when you’re accelerating or going up a hill. You might also notice a delay when you shift into drive or reverse, or a harsh clunking sound when the transmission engages. In some cases, you might even see a transmission fluid leak underneath your vehicle.
If you catch the problem early enough, you might be able to have the transmission rebuilt, which is cheaper than replacing it entirely.
However, if the damage is too severe, you might be looking at a complete transmission replacement, which can cost several thousand dollars. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of your transmission maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise.
Electrical Problems
Blower Motor Only Works on High
If you find that your Ford Escape’s blower motor only works on the highest setting, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that affects all generations of the Escape, and it’s usually caused by a failed blower motor resistor. The blower motor resistor is responsible for controlling the speed of the blower motor, and when it fails, you’ll typically only get air on the highest setting.
You might also notice that your blower motor is making a squealing or whining noise, especially when you first turn it on. This is another sign that the resistor is on its way out. Fortunately, replacing the blower motor resistor is a pretty easy job that most DIYers can tackle in their driveway.
Just be sure to get a high-quality replacement part, as cheap aftermarket resistors are known to fail prematurely.
Problems Specific To 1st Generation Ford Escape (2001-2007)
Suspension Problems
Excessive Wheel Well/Shock Tower Rust
If you own a first-generation Ford Escape (2001-2007), you’ll want to keep an eye out for excessive rust in the wheel wells and shock towers. This is a common problem in areas where road salt is used, as the salt can accelerate the corrosion process. Over time, the rust can weaken the structural integrity of the vehicle and create safety concerns.
The problem is especially prevalent in the rear wheel wells, where the metal is prone to trapping moisture and debris. If you live in a rust-prone area, I recommend regularly inspecting your Escape’s wheel wells and shock towers for signs of corrosion.
If you catch the problem early enough, you might be able to have the affected areas repaired or replaced before the rust spreads too far.
However, if the rust has already caused significant damage, you might be looking at a more extensive repair job. In some cases, the corrosion can be so severe that it’s not worth fixing, and you might be better off looking for a new vehicle.
That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of rust prevention and address any issues as soon as they arise.
Problems Specific To 2nd Generation Ford Escape (2008-2012)
Powertrain Problems
Internal Transfer Case Problem on 4WD Models
If you have a second-generation Ford Escape (2008-2012) with four-wheel drive, you might experience an issue with the transfer case. The transfer case is responsible for distributing power from the transmission to the front and rear axles, and when it fails, you can lose power to one or both axles.
The most common symptom of a failing transfer case is a grinding or humming noise coming from the center of the vehicle.
You might also notice that your Escape feels like it’s stuck in neutral, even though the transmission is engaged. In some cases, you might see a puddle of fluid underneath your vehicle, which could be a sign of a transfer case leak.
If you suspect that your Escape’s transfer case is failing, the first step is to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. They’ll likely use a diagnostic tool to check for any error codes, such as P1744 or P1746, which can indicate a problem with the transfer case control module.
Depending on the severity of the issue, you might need to have the transfer case rebuilt or replaced entirely.
To help prevent transfer case problems, I recommend having your Escape’s transfer case fluid checked and changed according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Using high-quality fluid and avoiding overloading your vehicle can also help extend the life of your transfer case.
Problems Specific To 3rd Generation Ford Escape (2013-2019)
Engine Problems
EcoBoost Engine Overheating and Cylinder Head Failure
One of the most serious problems affecting the third-generation Ford Escape (2013-2019) is overheating and cylinder head failure in the 1.6L EcoBoost engine.
This issue is caused by a design flaw that allows coolant to leak into the cylinders, leading to engine damage and eventual failure. Some of the most common symptoms of this problem include white smoke from the exhaust, loss of power, and engine misfires.
If you suspect that your Escape’s 1.6L EcoBoost engine is overheating or experiencing cylinder head failure, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
They’ll likely perform a pressure test on the cooling system to check for leaks, as well as a compression test on the engine to check for damage to the cylinder head gasket or cylinder walls. In some cases, you might see error codes such as P0300 or P0301, which can indicate a misfire or cylinder damage.
Unfortunately, this problem can be quite costly to repair. Depending on the extent of the damage, you might need to have the cylinder head replaced, or even the entire engine.
Ford has issued a recall for some affected vehicles, so it’s worth checking to see if your Escape is covered. In the meantime, I recommend keeping a close eye on your coolant level and watching for any signs of overheating or engine problems.
Transmission Problems
Transmission Slipping and Jerking
Another common problem with the third-generation Ford Escape is transmission slipping and jerking. This issue is most prevalent in early models (2013-2014), and it’s usually caused by worn clutches or faulty solenoids in the transmission.
If you’re experiencing this problem, you might notice that your Escape feels like it’s slipping out of gear, especially when accelerating or going up a hill. You might also feel a jerking or shuddering sensation when the transmission shifts.
If you suspect that your Escape’s transmission is slipping or jerking, the first step is to have the transmission fluid level and condition checked. Low or dirty fluid can cause a variety of transmission problems, so it’s important to make sure that the fluid is at the correct level and in good condition. If the fluid is fine, the next step is to have the transmission diagnosed by a qualified mechanic.
They’ll likely use a diagnostic tool to check for any error codes, such as P0733 or P0776, which can indicate a problem with the transmission clutches or solenoids.
In some cases, the problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty solenoids or clutches. However, if the damage is too severe, you might need to have the transmission rebuilt or replaced entirely. To help prevent transmission problems, I recommend having your Escape’s transmission fluid checked and changed according to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Using high-quality fluid and avoiding aggressive driving habits can also help extend the life of your transmission.
Problems Specific To 4th Generation Ford Escape (2020-Present)
Engine Problems
Oil and Fuel Vapor Leak in Engine Compartment
One of the most concerning problems affecting the fourth-generation Ford Escape (2020-present) is oil and fuel vapor leaks in the engine compartment. This issue has led to several recalls, as it poses a serious fire risk. The problem is caused by a faulty cylinder head, which can crack and allow oil and fuel to leak onto hot engine components.
If you own a fourth-generation Escape, it’s important to check if your vehicle is affected by the recall. You can do this by entering your VIN on Ford’s recall website or by contacting your local Ford dealer. If your vehicle is affected, I recommend having it inspected and repaired as soon as possible. In the meantime, be on the lookout for any signs of oil or fuel leaks, such as a burning smell or visible puddles under your vehicle.
Fuel Injector Cracking and Leaking
Another engine problem that has plagued the fourth-generation Ford Escape is fuel injector cracking and leaking. This issue has also led to a recall, as it can cause fuel to leak into the engine compartment and increase the risk of a fire. The problem is caused by a manufacturing defect in the fuel injectors, which can cause them to crack and leak over time.
If you suspect that your Escape’s fuel injectors are leaking, you might notice a fuel smell coming from the engine compartment or see visible fuel leaks under your vehicle. You might also experience rough running, misfires, or a loss of power.
If you notice any of these symptoms, I recommend having your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
To check if your vehicle is affected by the fuel injector recall, you can enter your VIN on Ford’s recall website or contact your local Ford dealer. If your vehicle is affected, it’s important to have the faulty fuel injectors replaced as soon as possible to avoid any potential safety hazards.
Electrical Problems
Infotainment System Malfunctions
Infotainment system malfunctions are one of the most common complaints among owners of the fourth-generation Ford Escape. Many drivers have reported issues with the touchscreen freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive, which can be frustrating and distracting while driving.
If you’re experiencing problems with your Escape’s infotainment system, there are a few things you can try before taking it to a mechanic.
First, try resetting the system by pressing and holding the power button for at least 10 seconds. If that doesn’t work, you can try disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system. If the problem persists, you might need to have the system updated or replaced by a qualified technician.
It’s worth noting that Ford has issued several software updates for the infotainment system in the fourth-generation Escape, so it’s a good idea to check if your vehicle is up to date. You can do this by visiting your local Ford dealer or by checking for updates through your vehicle’s settings menu.
Braking System Problems
Excessive Brake Pedal Pressure
Some owners of the fourth-generation Ford Escape have reported issues with excessive brake pedal pressure, which can make it difficult to stop the vehicle safely.
This problem is often caused by a faulty brake booster or a leak in the brake system, which can reduce the amount of power assist available when you press the brake pedal.
If you’re experiencing this issue, you might notice that you have to press the brake pedal much harder than usual to slow down or stop the vehicle. You might also hear a hissing noise coming from the brake booster, or see a warning light on the dashboard indicating a problem with the brake system.
If you suspect that your Escape’s brake system is not working properly, I recommend having it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. They’ll likely perform a thorough visual inspection of the brake system, as well as a pressure test to check for leaks. Depending on the cause of the problem, you might need to have the brake booster replaced, or have any leaks in the brake lines or calipers repaired.
Rear Brake Squeal or Squeak
Another common brake problem reported by fourth-generation Ford Escape owners is a persistent squeal or squeak coming from the rear brakes. This issue is most noticeable when backing up or applying the brakes at low speeds, and it can be quite annoying for drivers and passengers alike.
The cause of this problem is usually a buildup of brake dust or debris on the rear brake pads or rotors, which can cause them to vibrate and create a high-pitched noise. In some cases, the noise may also be caused by worn or damaged brake pads or rotors that need to be replaced.
If you’re experiencing a squeal or squeak from your Escape’s rear brakes, I recommend having them inspected by a qualified mechanic.
They’ll likely perform a visual inspection of the brake pads and rotors, as well as a measurement of the brake pad thickness to determine if they need to be replaced. In some cases, simply cleaning the brake components and applying a high-quality brake lubricant can help eliminate the noise.
It’s worth noting that some dealerships may try to dismiss this issue as “normal” or “characteristic” of the vehicle, but I believe that any persistent brake noise should be taken seriously and addressed promptly to ensure the safety and comfort of you and your passengers.
Closing Thoughts
As we’ve seen, each generation of the Ford Escape has its own set of common problems to watch out for. While no vehicle is perfect, being aware of these issues can help you make a more informed decision when buying or maintaining an Escape. Based on the information we’ve covered, if you’re shopping for a 4th gen Escape, make sure to check if it’s been affected by any of the engine or fuel system recalls.
And if you’re looking at older models, keep an eye out for signs of rust, especially on the 1st gen Escapes. With a little knowledge and preventative maintenance, your Escape can provide you with many miles of reliable driving.
