Ford Escape 2020–2025 problems by year and mileage
4th generation · Ford C2
NHTSA data through 24 September 20263,001 complaints, 686 with mileageMethod
Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.
The 2020 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- 42,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 1,888
- Recalls naming this year
- 25
Most reported on the 2020
- Body structure775 reports · median 44,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise371 reports
- Transmission and driveline269 reports · median 46,000 mi
25 recall campaigns name the 2020: Back over prevention — software; Visibility — windshield wiper/washer; Power train — automatic transmission. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
The 2021 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- 38,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 490
- Recalls naming this year
- 21
Most reported on the 2021
- Body structure126 reports
- Engine87 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise77 reports
21 recall campaigns name the 2021: Back over prevention — software; Visibility — windshield wiper/washer; Structure — body. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
The 2022 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- 35,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 377
- Recalls naming this year
- 21
Most reported on the 2022
- Engine102 reports
- Fuel system62 reports
- Electrical system52 reports
21 recall campaigns name the 2022: Back over prevention — software; Visibility — windshield wiper/washer; Electrical system — propulsion system. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
The 2023 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- 14,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 132
- Recalls naming this year
- 13
Most reported on the 2023
- Electrical system60 reports
- Engine31 reports
- Transmission and driveline22 reports
13 recall campaigns name the 2023: Electrical system — propulsion system; Engine; Equipment — electrical. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
The 2024 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 86
- Recalls naming this year
- 10
Most reported on the 2024
- Electrical system34 reports
- Forward collision avoidance20 reports
- Lane departure18 reports
10 recall campaigns name the 2024: Electrical system — propulsion system; Engine; Equipment — electrical. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
The 2025 Ford Escape
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 28
- Recalls naming this year
- 10
Most reported on the 2025
- Electrical system9 reports
- Problems owners could not categorise6 reports
- Engine5 reports
10 recall campaigns name the 2025: Engine and engine cooling — exhaust system; Electrical system — propulsion system; Seat belts — rear/other. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.
Each tile shows the median mileage at which that model year’s failures were reported. The 2020 reports latest and the 2023 earliest, but part of that gap is age: the 2020 has had 3 more years on the road to accumulate mileage. 2 of these years carry fewer than 30 reports with an odometer reading and show no median at all, rather than one computed from a handful.
The short answer
“Is the 2020–2025 Ford Escape reliable?”
- Median of reported failures
- 39,000 mi
- 90% of reports came by
- 86,000 mi
- Reports with mileage
- 686
- Recalls
- 45
At least 40% of this generation’s complaints were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading, so the median likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.
Most reported
- Body structure31.4% of complaints · median 42,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise17.6% of complaints · median 2,000 mi
- Engine14.1% of complaints · median 40,000 mi
Owners filed 3,001 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020–2025 Ford Escape; body structure leads with 31.4% of them, and half of the 686 that record an odometer reading came by 39,000 miles. A count like this can’t rate reliability on its own: NHTSA records what owners chose to report, not how many of each car were sold.
Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 15,000 and 60,000 miles.
Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗
How many miles does a 2020–2025 Ford Escape last?
The newest model years (2024–2025) are too young to have reached high mileage; most reports with an odometer reading come from the earlier years of the generation.
Complaint records can’t measure how long a car lasts; they show when reported failures happened. On the 2020–2025 Ford Escape, half of the 686 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 39,000 miles and 90% by 86,000 miles.
3 reports came in past 150,000 miles — each one proof that an Escape reached that mileage, not that it failed there.
Figure 1 · Ford Escape 2020–2025 · 686 reports with mileage
Mileage at failure
Complaints per 10,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 141 complaints.
- Rest of the range
- Median
- 10%
- 2,000
- 25%
- 15,000
- Median
- 39,000
- 75%
- 60,000
- 90%
- 86,000
Show the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10,000 | 141 | 20.6% |
| 10,000–20,000 | 61 | 8.9% |
| 20,000–30,000 | 64 | 9.3% |
| 30,000–40,000 | 87 | 12.7% |
| 40,000–50,000 | 88 | 12.8% |
| 50,000–60,000 | 68 | 9.9% |
| 60,000–70,000 | 37 | 5.4% |
| 70,000–80,000 | 52 | 7.6% |
| 80,000–90,000 | 25 | 3.6% |
| 90,000–100,000 | 21 | 3.1% |
| 100,000–110,000 | 22 | 3.2% |
| 110,000–120,000 | 5 | 0.7% |
| 120,000–130,000 | 6 | 0.9% |
| 130,000–140,000 | 4 | 0.6% |
| 140,000–150,000 | 2 | 0.3% |
| 150,000–160,000 | 2 | 0.3% |
| 180,000–190,000 | 1 | 0.1% |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.
What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.
Common Escape problems, and when they happen
Figure 2 · Ford Escape 2020–2025
When each system fails
Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.
- Problems owners could not categorise527 reports2,000790–9,000Problems owners could not categorise: 527 reports, median 2,000 miles, middle half 790 to 9,000 miles.
- Brakes139 reports7,0001,000–30,000Brakes: 139 reports, median 7,000 miles, middle half 1,000 to 30,000 miles.
- Electrical system419 reports19,0005,000–46,000Electrical system: 419 reports, median 19,000 miles, middle half 5,000 to 46,000 miles.
- Engine423 reports40,00014,000–79,000Engine: 423 reports, median 40,000 miles, middle half 14,000 to 79,000 miles.
- Body structure942 reports42,00030,000–60,000Body structure: 942 reports, median 42,000 miles, middle half 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
- Transmission and driveline402 reports44,00015,000–75,000Transmission and driveline: 402 reports, median 44,000 miles, middle half 15,000 to 75,000 miles.
- Fuel system227 reports49,00032,000–70,000Fuel system: 227 reports, median 49,000 miles, middle half 32,000 to 70,000 miles.
- Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”
Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
All systems in a table
| System | Complaints | Share | Median | 25–75% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body structure | 942 | 31.4% | 42,000 | 30,000–60,000 |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 527 | 17.6% | 2,000 | 790–9,000 |
| Engine | 423 | 14.1% | 40,000 | 14,000–79,000 |
| Electrical system | 419 | 14.0% | 19,000 | 5,000–46,000 |
| Transmission and driveline | 402 | 13.4% | 44,000 | 15,000–75,000 |
| Fuel system | 227 | 7.6% | 49,000 | 32,000–70,000 |
| Fuel and propulsion system | 166 | 5.5% | — | — |
| Brakes | 139 | 4.6% | 7,000 | 1,000–30,000 |
| Forward collision avoidance | 133 | 4.4% | 16,000 | 1,500–52,000 |
| Reversing camera and sensors | 69 | 2.3% | 55,000 | 32,000–75,000 |
System by system, in words
Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 39,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.
Body structure accounts for 31.4% of complaints (942 reports, 216 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 42,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 30,000 and 60,000 miles.
A single system taking 31.4% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.
Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 17.6% of complaints (527 reports, 22 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 2,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 790 and 9,000 miles.
The engine accounts for 14.1% of complaints (423 reports, 66 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 40,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 14,000 and 79,000 miles.
The electrical system accounts for 14.0% of complaints (419 reports, 97 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 19,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 5,000 and 46,000 miles.
The transmission and driveline accounts for 13.4% of complaints (402 reports, 109 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 44,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 15,000 and 75,000 miles.
The fuel system accounts for 7.6% of complaints (227 reports, 73 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 49,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 32,000 and 70,000 miles.
Known problems with the 2020–2025 Escape
Fuel System / Engine 2020–2023
1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder fuel injectors can crack, leaking fuel and vapor into the cylinder head area near ignition sources, causing underhood fires. Covered by successive recalls (22S43, 22S73, and a 2025 expansion) affecting roughly 850,000 Escape and Bronco Sport vehicles; interim remedy is ECU software that detects a cracked injector.
Transmission
8F35 8-speed automatic harsh or delayed shifting and shudder complaints.
Before you buy a 2020–2025 Escape: the 3-minute check
Generated from 686 mileage-tagged complaints, 45 recall campaigns, 2 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 45 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
- Ask for problems owners could not categorise repair records. Reports on this area come at a median of 2,000 miles — a newer example may not have reached that mileage yet, so ask what was repaired under warranty and what the warranty still covers.
- Ask for brakes repair records. Reports on this area come at a median of 7,000 miles — a newer example may not have reached that mileage yet, so ask what was repaired under warranty and what the warranty still covers.
- Check fuel system / engine on 2020–2023 cars. 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder fuel injectors can crack, leaking fuel and vapor into the cylinder head area near ignition sources, causing underhood fires. Covered by successive recalls (22S43, 22S73, and a 2025…
- Check transmission. 8F35 8-speed automatic harsh or delayed shifting and shudder complaints.
- Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
- End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car. Aggregate data describes the population; the example in front of you has its own history.
For a buyer, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 15,000 and 60,000 miles, with a median of 39,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.
On inspection, body structure and problems owners could not categorise are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. Problems owners could not categorise in particular shows a median failure mileage of 2,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.
None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.
Escape problems by mileage: where your car sits
Type your odometer reading, or read the common mileages in the table. Your marker lands on the timing chart above and on the curve below.
| System | Middle half of reports, mi | At 60k mi74% below | At 90k mi91% below | At 120k mi98% below | At 150k mi100% below | At 200k mi100% below |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body structure | 30,000–60,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 790–9,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Engine | 14,000–79,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Electrical system | 5,000–46,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Transmission and driveline | 15,000–75,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Fuel system | 32,000–70,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Brakes | 1,000–30,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
Figure 3 · Ford Escape 2020–2025 · 686 reports with mileage
Share of reports below each mileage
Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.
- 60,000 mi — 74% of reports below
- 90,000 mi — 91% of reports below
- 120,000 mi — 98% of reports below
- 150,000 mi — 100% of reports below
- 200,000 mi — 100% of reports below
- Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
- Your odometer — appears after you enter it above
Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
2020–2025 Ford Escape recalls (45)
NHTSA records 45 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.
The campaigns cluster around the electrical system (9), the fuel system (6), the reversing camera and sensors (5). Several campaigns against one area can mean a remedy that did not hold, or separate defects in parts filed under the same heading; the summaries below name each defect.
Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.
Mar 2026 · 2020–2022 · Back Over PreventionAn incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk…
The defect. 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 displayed rearview image when the vehicle is…
What can happen. An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
Mar 2026 · 2025 · Engine and Engine CoolingAn unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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…
What can happen. An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the EGR valves, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 31, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is…
Mar 2026 · 2020–2022 · VisibilityWindshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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.
What can happen. Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent…
Feb 2026 · 2022–2025 · Electrical SystemBattery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 internal short circuit and battery failure.
What can happen. Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM) software, free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed…
Dec 2025 · 2020 · Power TrainA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick Hybrid and 2020 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.
What can happen. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this…
Dec 2025 · 2025 · Seat BeltsAn improperly secured seat belt retractor may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and secure, or replace the seat belt retractor bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 26, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer…
Dec 2025 · 2020–2022, 2025 · StructureA detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and reinstall, or replace any missing liftgate hinge covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer…
Nov 2025 · 2020–2024 · Electrical SystemBattery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
What can happen. Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM), free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail…
Nov 2025 · 2025 · Electronic Stability Control (esc)Loss of vehicle stability control or brake power assist can increase the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 stability control systems (anti-lock braking…
What can happen. Loss of vehicle stability control or brake power assist can increase the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the electric brake booster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number…
Oct 2025 · 2020 · Service Brakes, HydraulicReduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to…
The defect. 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, these vehicles fail to comply with the…
What can happen. Reduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for…
Oct 2025 · 2020–2022 · EquipmentAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. 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 vehicles. The engine block heater may crack…
What can happen. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine…
Jul 2025 · 2020–2022 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update…
Jun 2025 · 2020–2022 · Back Over PreventionA rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle.
The defect. 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, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023…
What can happen. A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract…
The free fix. Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number…
Jun 2025 · 2023–2025 · EngineAn oil leak can result in loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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.
What can happen. An oil leak can result in loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase…
The free fix. Dealers will replace the cylinder head assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's…
May 2025 · 2020–2023 · EngineAn engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The defect. 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 event of an engine failure, engine oil and…
What can happen. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The free fix. Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will update the powertrain…
May 2025 · 2023–2025 · EquipmentAn overheated engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. 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…
What can happen. An overheated engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the block heater element and inspect the electrical cord, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater…
May 2025 · 2023–2024 · Back Over PreventionA frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the…
The defect. 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, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024…
What can happen. A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air update, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming…
Mar 2025 · 2020–2022 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. 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 inside the engine compartment.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.…
Mar 2025 · 2025 · Back Over PreventionAn inverted rearview camera image will not accurately display what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk…
The defect. 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…
What can happen. An inverted rearview camera image will not accurately display what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.…
Feb 2025 · 2022 · Power TrainA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to…
What can happen. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall…
Jan 2025 · 2025 · Electrical SystemAn instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or…
The defect. 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…
What can happen. An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 17, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number…
Dec 2024 · 2020–2024 · Electrical SystemBattery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 circuit and battery failure.
What can happen. Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update, and replace the high voltage battery pack, as…
Nov 2024 · 2020–2024 · EquipmentWithout a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of…
The defect. 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 missing from the dashboard. As such, these…
What can happen. Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this…
Nov 2024 · 2024–2025 · Electrical SystemDuring air bag deployment, the air bag cover may break and project fragments into the vehicle, or the air bag…
The defect. 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…
What can happen. During air bag deployment, the air bag cover may break and project fragments into the vehicle, or the air bag may deploy improperly, increasing the risk of occupant injury.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the passenger side instrument panel cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 18, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
Aug 2024 · 2023–2024 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
The defect. 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 result in a fuel leak.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
Jun 2024 · 2023–2024 · Forward Collision AvoidanceMisalignment of the radar module can result in the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) misclassifying an overhead…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. Misalignment of the radar module can result in the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) misclassifying an overhead object as an object in the vehicle's path, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly slow and/or…
The free fix. Dealers will adjust the angle of the radar module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for…
May 2024 · 2020–2022 · Power TrainA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive…
What can happen. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall…
Mar 2024 · 2022 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 24, 2024. Owners may…
Jul 2023 · 2023 · Electrical SystemAn inoperable instrument panel cannot show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning…
The defect. 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 been improperly soldered, preventing the…
What can happen. An inoperable instrument panel cannot show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, which may increase the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the module or instrument panel as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 4, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
May 2023 · 2020–2023 · EngineAn engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The defect. 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 vapor may be released into the engine…
What can happen. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The free fix. Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will replace the engine…
Nov 2022 · 2020–2023 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety…
Jul 2022 · 2020–2022 · StructureAn engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The defect. 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 vapor may be released into the engine…
What can happen. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
The free fix. Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will modify the under…
May 2022 · 2020 · Electrical SystemA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 drive power.
What can happen. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on July 12, 2022. Owner notification letters were…
Mar 2022 · 2020–2022 · Engine and Engine CoolingAn oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2022. Owners…
Mar 2022 · 2021–2022 · Electrical SystemA sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for…
Feb 2022 · 2021 · Engine and Engine CoolingEngine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
What can happen. Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 2, 2022. Owner…
Nov 2021 · 2021–2022 · Service Brakes, HydraulicDuring certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to…
The defect. 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 vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of…
What can happen. During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this…
Nov 2021 · 2021 · Hybrid Propulsion SystemA sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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.
What can happen. A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. A dealer will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. The owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number…
Aug 2021 · 2021 · Fuel System, GasolineAn engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 in an engine stall.
What can happen. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on…
Jan 2021 · 2020 · Power TrainIf the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the…
The defect. 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 may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.
What can happen. If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the…
Oct 2020 · 2020 · Electrical SystemLow tire pressure may lead to poor vehicle handling and a possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the…
The defect. 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 Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors or the Remote…
What can happen. Low tire pressure may lead to poor vehicle handling and a possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the BCM, free of charge. Owners are advised that two key fobs are required for the repair to be completed. The recall began December 1, 2020. Owners…
Sep 2020 · 2020 · Back Over PreventionReduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
The defect. 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 electrical connection, the rearview camera…
What can happen. Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were…
Sep 2020 · 2020 · Power TrainMissing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may…
The defect. 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.
What can happen. Missing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may progress to a loss of transmission function. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of…
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the start/stop accumulator, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's…
Jul 2020 · 2020 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain…
The defect. 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 from the inflator in the event of an air bag…
What can happen. In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag modules, free of charge. An interim letter notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed August 3, 2020. The recall began…
Aug 2019 · 2020 · SeatsA seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately…
The defect. 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 equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual…
What can happen. A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford…
Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported
What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 3,001 complaints against this generation:
- Crashes
- 53 (1.8%)
- Fires
- 25
- Injury reports
- 51
- Fatality reports
- 1
These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.
Escape problems by model year
The 2020 drew the most complaints of this generation, 1,888, most of them about body structure, and the 2025 the fewest, 28. A typical year drew about 254.
That makes the 2020 stand out at roughly 7.4 times a typical year. A count like this follows how many cars of each year were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as how often they failed, so it is not by itself evidence of a worse year; what each year's reports name, in its card and row, is the useful part.
| Year | Complaints | With mileage | Median miles | Most reported | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 1,888 | 453 | 42,000 | Body structure (775) | 25 |
| 2021 | 490 | 100 | 38,000 | Body structure (126) | 21 |
| 2022 | 377 | 79 | 35,000 | Engine (102) | 21 |
| 2023 | 132 | 32 | 14,000 | Electrical system (60) | 13 |
| 2024 | 86 | 15 | under 30 reports | Electrical system (34) | 10 |
| 2025 | 28 | 7 | under 30 reports | Electrical system (9) | 10 |
What Escape owners reported
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V117000 (Visibility); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the…
2021 · 100,000 miles · Visibility equipment
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and a code for ABS Internal Module Failure was displayed. The contact was informed that further…
2022 · 55,000 miles · Engine
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message that the door was unlocked was displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the contact was informed of an unrepaired recall associated with the VIN. The contact was informed that an unknown device was…
2020 · 59,000 miles · Latches and locks
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was serviced under Customer Satisfaction Program 23B-56; however, the replacement welding caused the front driver's side door to fail. Additionally, the contact stated that while attempting to enter the vehicle…
2021 · 76,000 miles · Electrical system
Built from 686 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-09-26 · open data · how it is built
Other Escape generations
- Escape 2001–2007 4,349 reports with mileage, most about body structure
- Escape 2008–2012 7,014 reports with mileage, most about the steering
- Escape 2013–2019 6,642 reports with mileage, most about the engine