2013 FORD ESCAPE

18 recalls, 3,674 complaints - 236 TSBs - 4/5 safety rating

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

Defect Description

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

Consequence

An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

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 block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim lett... Read more

116,672 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

Defect Description

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

Consequence

A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notifica... Read more

2,925,968 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 ... Read more

Consequence

A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to... Read more

2,147,323 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Escape, and 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles, equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time and cause the bushing to detach from the tran... Read more

Consequence

If the vehicle is exited without the transmission being in Park and without the parking brake being applied, the vehicle may unexpectedly move, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S20. Note: Owners are directed to use the parking brake until the recal... Read more

504,182 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the ... Read more

Consequence

A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.

2,046,297 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured January 11, 2012, to April 1, 2013, and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles manufactured May 03, 2012, to October 14, 2013. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pres... Read more

Consequence

The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began on January 7, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17-S1.

9,017 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

AIR BAGS

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ... Read more

Consequence

The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

746,842 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to April 1, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines and Focus ST vehicles manufactured February 14, 2012, to October 14, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines. Insufficient compre... Read more

Consequence

The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17.

133,227 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through April 10, 2014. Due to an assembly misalignment between the exterior door handle and the door outer panel, the affected vehicles have doors that may be difficult to close or may... Read more

Consequence

A door that opens unexpectedly may result in an unrestrained occupant falling from the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and correct the mounting of the door handles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S03.

581,986 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.

Consequence

If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

594,785 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from Ju... Read more

Consequence

The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.

43,135 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ENGINE

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through June 2, 2013 and equipped with 1.6L engines. The affected vehicles may experience localized overheating of the engine cylinder head which may cause cracks that could allow oil to lea... Read more

Consequence

Leaking engine oil may come into contact with a hot engine surface potentially resulting in an engine compartment fire.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the engine shielding, cooling and control systems, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13S12.

139,917 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine subject to prior safety recall NHTSA 12V-336. In some cases, the engine compartment fuel line may have been installed incorrectly ... Read more

Consequence

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners and dealers will inspect the engine compartment fuel line, and if necessary, replace it, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13... Read more

9,469 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Defect Description

Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012, through November 21, 2012. The left rear door child lock was built incorrectly. As a result, the chil... Read more

Consequence

The operator may incorrectly believe the child lock is engaged. However, the door may be opened from the inside, increasing the risk of injury to an unrestrained child.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected rear door latches, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

5,675 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Defect Description

This is an update to a recently announced recall. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through November 26, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines, as well as certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles manufactured from February 3, 2012, through Novemb... Read more

Consequence

If flammable engine fluids come in contact with the vehicles hot exhaust system, a vehicle fire could occur.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine for coolant system leaks and reprogram the vehicles powertrain control module and instrument cluster with an updated calibration and overheat strategy software. There will be no charge to owners for this service. Owners were recently n... Read more

80,057 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Defect Description

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

Consequence

As leaking engine coolant evaporates on the hot engine, the glycol may ignite causing an engine compartment fire.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will seal the existing plug and add a secondary plug cover, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 11, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.

6,146 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

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

Consequence

If this leak occurs in the presence of an ignition source, there is an increased risk of a fire and/or personal injury.

Remedy

Ford will notify and instruct owners to stop driving their vehicles and contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer to arrange pick-up of their vehicle. Customers will be provided with a rental vehicle if needed. The dealer will replace the engine compartment fuel line, free charge. The recall began on Augu... Read more

9,320 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

Defect Description

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

Consequence

THE REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY RESULT IN THE DRIVERS FOOT CONTACTING THE SIDE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE TRANSFERRING THE FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CARPET PADDING AND LEFT-SIDE CONSOLE TRIM PANEL REPLACED WITH A NEW PANEL, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

8,266 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

3,674 total complaints 77 crashes 117 fires 75 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	1,160
POWER TRAIN	386
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	365
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	295
STEERING	244
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	242
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	98
SERVICE BRAKES	95
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	93
AIR BAGS	83

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

Car has been having problems immediately with the turbocharger which then seemed fine once taken in. Only to turn around and have the transmission go out. Once again, it was taken in and was reported that there is no transmission dipstick. It is going into limp mode due to slippage detected from the... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

Incident date: Jul 15, 2025

Engine coolant intrusion into engine resulting in excessive visible smoke/steam on startup and coolant consumption. This issue has been inspected by a Ford dealer and private party mechanics, however could not be accurately diagnosed without engine disassembly. No evidence of external coolant leak... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2026

The shifter wouldn't go into park or start in park had to put in neutral to start it, was at a gas pump and the car started moving on its own had to jump in and pull the emergency brake to stop it and the vehicle was off, also the backup camera is upside down had it fixed but it goes right back upsi... Read more

Incident date: Apr 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the infotainment screen would go blank and the system would turn on inadvertently. This issue became more frequent, occurring approximately every 10 seconds. The power steering wa... Read more

Incident date: May 17, 2026

The vehicle received the official N252494001 recall oil remedy on 06/27/2025 at 15,438 miles (but suffered catastrophic engine failure and loss of propulsion at 33,661 miles on 05/30/2026).

Incident date: Oct 21, 2025

It started when I put my car in reverse and it would delay and jerk back before reversing off and on. About a month later, I started my car in the street and accelerated and it jerked and shut off in the middle of a street. I restarted it and accelerated it again and it jerked and shut off again. It... Read more

Incident date: Jan 13, 2025

Battery health has gone down to 31% I’ve had it at a dealership three times and they don’t know what’s wrong. They can’t figure it out, but my mileage has dropped significantly.

Incident date: Apr 17, 2026

Rear differential started making loud noise and grinding sounds

Incident date: Mar 27, 2026

I am reporting a major safety failure on my 2017 Acura MDX regarding the forward-facing multipurpose camera. Out of nowhere, the camera failed and triggered a cascade of warning lights across my entire dashboard. Because of this hardware defect, all of the critical safety systems—including the Col... Read more

Incident date: Mar 28, 2026

I am reporting a safety defect involving Continental CrossContact LX Sport tires, size 245/50 R20 used on my 2021 Honda Pilot. These tires are not currently included in the existing Continental recalls, but they are showing the same types of failures described in NHTSA recall 21T‑001 and related C... Read more

Incident date: Mar 28, 2026

Vehicle lights turned off while driving home with my family. Pulling over and turning off and on the car reset the problem. When lights turned off I received a warning light identifying a faulty right headlight and faulty left headlight. No accident and vehicle is currently outside manufacture w... Read more

Incident date: Mar 16, 2025

The contact owns a 2026 Hyundai Palisade. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the anti-pinch protection feature was inoperative and failed to identify that the seat was occupied. The contact’s grandson accidentally hit an unknown button and was squished by the seat. The failure c... Read more

Incident date: Feb 24, 2026

On March 14, 2026, I was attempting to turn left into a parking stall within a busy shopping center lot when my vehicle suddenly accelerated unexpectedly. I lost all control of both the steering and the braking systems. This resulted in my vehicle striking a parked car to my left, jumping a cemented... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

I brought my car in to get the recall fixed for the seat belts and the emissions issue. When it was returned to me, the passenger seat was not bolted down in the front (the bolts were rolling around on the floor) and the back bolts were loose. The vehicle was returned to me with the passenger seat c... Read more

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

Engine failure. Less than 150,000 miles and engine has gone bad. Burning oil, and loud noise when car starts. Had multiple mechanics look at the car whom said the motor went bad. I’ve been consistent with oil changes, tune ups, etc. maintained the car well so I don’t know why or how this happene... Read more

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

The coolant leaks into the engine. I had the coolant container replaced as well as the coolant bypass valve.Coolant still leaks into the engine and container has to be filled every day. It’s unsafe to drive. It stalls. The mechanic says it’s dangerous and to get another car but I can’t. There ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 17, 2025

The contact owns a 2024 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amou... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2026

Airbag sensor light has been On/Off. After a passenger is seated on the passenger side, light goes off. A day or two later, light comes back on.

Incident date: May 28, 2025

UConnect screen is out. Started glitching but now it is completely black yet the touch part of it is responsive?? Now if only i could remember EXACTLY where everything is located and in what order.. haha. Not. Also I have no backup camera view, not being able to see what temp my ac/heat is at or w... Read more

Incident date: Jan 8, 2025

My 2022 Ford Bronco (2.7L) currently has an open fuel pump module safety recall with no remedy available. Ford has informed us that there is no fix yet and owners must wait until a future repair becomes available. The dealership attempted to replace the fuel pump in hopes of improving the issue, but... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

When approaching a light, the car will completely shut off and my steering wheel will lock, and the emergency break will engage. I will be unable to use any part of my car for at least 1-2 minutes before the break releases and allows me to start my car again.

Incident date: Feb 20, 2026

EBP light comes on dash while driving. Codes have been determined by dealership but refuse to fix unless light is active. To get light off - must stop vehicle and turn on and off EBP switch and light goes off. Switch or sensor not working causing the problem.

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

On 2/12/2026 I was driving in Gordon County, GA. I was going about 25 MPH when I hit a pothole on the right hand side of the road. It resulted in a split wheel/rim on the right front side of my vehicle. It also damaged the wheel/rim on the right hand back side, as well as breaking the shock absor... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

Incident date: Dec 29, 2025

the sliding doors and sometimed the trunk door on this van unlocl and szlf open randomly. I took it to a mechanic and they said that it is the actuator failing. Dodge knows that this is a problem and extended the warranty, but the dealership in south audtin is difficult to work with. THIS JUSTIFI... Read more

Incident date: Dec 29, 2025

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Mar 15, 2017

Around 55,000 miles, my 2021 Chevrolet Blazer experienced a throttle body failure. The check engine light illuminated and the vehicle entered a reduced power/limp mode condition. Throttle response was significantly limited, and the vehicle could not accelerate normally. While the vehicle remained dr... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2017

I am submitting this complaint to report an ongoing steering system issue that I believe may involve the Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor and could affect safe vehicle operation. The primary symptoms are (1) a clicking sound associated with steering while driving, and (2) a loud creaking sound wh... Read more

Incident date: Oct 9, 2025

Vehicle was charged to full overnight. Vehicle was warming up in the garage on the charger in EV mode for approx 20 minutes. Vehicle cabin was warm when unplugged and put in reverse. Vehicle struggled to get through minor snow until traction control was turned off even with being set to "snow" mo... Read more

Incident date: Nov 13, 2025

The rear camera goes out/ screen flickers and turns black for a period when in reverse. It doesn’t happen every time but it happens often and at different times of day or different weather/ temperatures. I have not been able to determine associated factors ( humidity, temperature, etc). It does... Read more

Incident date: Nov 13, 2025

When turning on the car, the right side of the dashboard (digital panel) will not turn on, it will not display rpm, gas or speed. The turn signals are not making the click noise. The issue happens randomly and I haven’t been able to replicate it in the presence of the dealer. Once the dashboard is... Read more

Incident date: Jan 24, 2026

i have been waiting for months received a letter from Alfa Romeo sent them my details, for them to get in touch with me when the remedy for this potential dangerous fault to be rectified. Many crashes have taken place, as the car could potentially cut out whilst on the highways. For Alfa Romeo to ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 16, 2026

The Center Display Screen on about 18,800 of the above vehicles may have been built with a defect, which may result in the rearview image not displaying in a backing event. A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle. A blank screen will appear in p... Read more

Incident date: Jan 16, 2026

Car started shaking in the middle of driving it about 30 mph and all the electrical like door locks were going up and down car wasn’t accelerating and an alert came up for stabilizing wheels i believe. It happened for about a couple seconds and then everything went back to normal and randomly happ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 16, 2026

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

the lug nut caps will not come off and no tire store in our area can get them off without charging an arm and a leg. what if we were on the road with a flat tire? my husband is [XXX] and i'm [XXX] . there is no way we'd be able to get the wheel off to change it. what if we had no cell service and ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Smart Brake Support (SBS) & Forward Obstruction Warning system malfunctioned. Front radar sensor malfunctioned. Parking brake malfunctioned. I-activesense system malfunctioned. Emergency lane keep di... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Dec 1, 2025

Engine caused coolant to leak into the cylinders. Cracked engine block. Had to completely replace engine. Called Ford Assist and they said my car is one year too old to help with any sort of repairs. I was stranded without and car (my means to get to work) and heavily relied on other people. I ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Lincoln Corsair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V048000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 8, 2026

Vehicle brake pedal is not fully depressing to normal state after use. This is causing the break lights to remain on until you pull the pedal itself back to resting state. If you do not do this the cruise control will not work. The ESC error light and Service Trailer Brake System error continue to c... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2026

I brought vehicle in once for horn not working to dealer. They fixed it. Seven months later in a near traffic incident horn not working. Outside temperatures were below freezing at the time. Following week outside temperatures goes above freezing & horn is working again. It appears horn has an inter... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2026

The transmission for this vehicle is failing. When accelerating it shifts to a lower gear without warning. It appears to be slipping into gears that it should not be shifting into. When first putting the vehicle into drive it often lurches forward so a hard braking action is required when shifti... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2026

Component/System: Brake system – specifically brake pedal assembly / braking performance. Description: The vehicle experienced recurring issues with braking performance, including inconsistent or reduced deceleration during braking. Availability for inspection: The vehicle is currently in my pos... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Dec 26, 2025

The contact owned a 2007 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 18V148000(Air Bags) and 17V509000 ( Fuel System, Gasoline), and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted.

Incident date: Nov 18, 2025

Tried to get my vehicle fixed under recall Ford mistakenly told me that these were aftermarket rear shocks and that they weren't covered upon fixing the vehicle myself and bringing the shocks into a different dealership they told me that they were covered and should have been fixed under recall I've... Read more

Incident date: Nov 28, 2025

While driving my 2020 Acura MDX with 29,647 miles, all AcuraWatch safety systems suddenly failed at once, including Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic High Beams. Multiple warning messages appeared simult... Read more

Showing 50 of 3,674 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2013 FORD ESCAPE

2013 Ford Escape SUV 4x4

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	18.5%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2013 FORD ESCAPE

236 manufacturer communications from 145 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	29
350000 EQUIPMENT	23
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	18
100000 POWER TRAIN	11
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	10
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)	7
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	7
220000 SEATS	6

350000 EQUIPMENT

All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during ini

160000 STRUCTURE

For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification numbe

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotors should o

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

Some 2013-2016 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles may display an error message when updating the All Wheel Drive-ATC Barcode using the IDS service function after installing a new rear drive unit assembly (RDU) or active torque coupling (ATC) clutch

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2013-2023 Ford or Lincoln vehicles with modems activated through FordPass or LincolnWay may experience 12 volt battery drain symptoms when the customer uses non-Ford/Lincoln phone applications as an alternate channel to access vehicle

354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL

This article supersedes TSB 21-2236 to update the models and year affected. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2022 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2022 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2

350000 EQUIPMENT

220000 SEATS

031110 SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC:SOFTWARE/PROGRAMMING

Some 2013-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotor

220000 SEATS

Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2021 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2021 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2021 F-Super Duty, 2018-2021 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2021 Ranger/Nautilus,

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare fo

220000 SEATS

Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus,2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2020 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2020 F-Super Duty, 2018-2020 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2020 Ranger/Nautilus vehicles may

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Some 2013-2016 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a lack of cooling caused by the A/C inlet line breaking at the compressor. This may be due to the oil cooler coolant lines exerting excess pressure on the A/C i

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Some 2013-2020 vehicles equipped with an EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function. To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been provided

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

Some 2010-2020 vehicles may exhibit distorted glass with a subtle orange peel pattern or streaking etched into the surface. This is caused by hydrofluoric acid which is used in some car wash solutions as a cleaning agent. Hydrofluoric acid

130000 VISIBILITY

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA a

100000 POWER TRAIN

On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/tran

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing an

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the pr

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER

Some 2013-2015 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or a transmission malfunction service now warning with only diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0741 and/or P17

100000 POWER TRAIN

022000 SUSPENSION:REAR

Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit damaged or delaminated bushing(s) on the rear suspension front lower arm (dog bone). If the rear suspension front lower arm requires replacement, an updated part is available through the parts cata

020000 SUSPENSION

106220 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL

Some all-wheel drive (AWD) 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost/Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-201

100000 POWER TRAIN

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2012-2019 Vehicles may require repairs to the Smartlink system. Smartlink is a Ford Licensed Accessory which has a warranty provided by the accessory manufacturer. Warranty replacement parts for Smartlink that are ordered through Ford

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2019 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 Edge/F150/MKC/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017 Super Duty, 2018-2019 EcoSport/Expedition, and 2019 Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan loose

220000 SEATS

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

2013-2019 Escape and 2015-2019 MKC vehicles equipped with a power roof opening panel will exhibit a small vent opening position of 5 mm (.197 in). This is the normal vent position for optimal noise, vibration, harshness (NVH) and windnoise

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts

190000 TIRES

Some 2013-2019 Escape and 2015-2019 MKC vehicles may exhibit a vibration attributed to the tires. Prior to performing any road force balancing procedures or related diagnosis, make sure the vehicle tire pressure is correct and is driven a m

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2013-2018 MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-201

210000 TRAILER HITCHES

If a trailer hitch receiver is installed on a 2013-2018 Escape or 2015-2019 MKC vehicle equipped with a hands-free liftgate, the hands-free liftgate function will become inoperative. Hands-free liftgate function can be restored by replacing

174200 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

020000 SUSPENSION

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2013-2016 Escape and 2016 Focus, Transit and Transit Connect vehicles equipped with a front control display interface module (FCDIM) may exhibit the inability to store AM/FM presets, select AM/FM presets and/or erratic preset button op

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Linco

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

2010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No re

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts a

350000 EQUIPMENT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 20

104000 POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2013-2016 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may require the replacement of the A/C suction line. When replacing the suction line, verify that all of the compressor to engine block fasteners are installed and torqued

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

160000 STRUCTURE

Some 2013-2018 Escape, Focus and C-Max vehicles may exhibit a water stained headliner after the vehicle has experienced a water leak from areas such as the roof opening panel, fixed glass, roof rails and roof ditch mouldings. Follow the pro

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some vehicles may exhibit a no start condition with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and a DTC P161A after PCM replacement. This may be due to the parameter reset procedure not being properly completed. To clear this DTC, use

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

284000 BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM

Some owners of 2013-2018 Escape vehicles may complain of the rear license plate viewed in the lower portion of the display screen when using the parking aid camera. This is due to the convex camera lens to provide as much viewing angle as p

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Some 2013-2017 Edge/MKX/Escape/MKC/Fusion/MKZ/Flex/MKT/Mondeo/Kuga/EcoSport AWD vehicles where diagnosis leads to a RDU clutch issue, a rear drive unit (RDU) service kit is available. Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) in the parts

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2012-13 Focus and 2013 Escape/C-MAX vehicles may have the wrong part in the box for the BCM (base 14A068). The suspect service part number is GV6Z-14A068-G. The wrong part will have an engineering number of GV6T-14A073-GD and it will n

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SOME 2013-2017 ESCAPE VEHICLES BUILT ON OR BEFORE 28-FEB-2017 MAY EXHIBIT A NOISE AND/OR VIBRATION FROM THE CLIMATE CONTROL BLOWER MOTOR WITH OR WITHOUT A LACK OF AIRFLOW FROM PANEL REGISTERS AND MAY ALSO HAVE AN ODOR. THIS CONCERN MAY BE D

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

2013-2016 FIESTA, ESCAPE, TRANSIT CONNECT AND 2013 FUSION VEHICLES WITH A 1.6L GASOLINE TURBOCHARGED DIRECT INJECTION (GTDI) ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT AN ENGINE OIL LEVEL READING THAT IS UP TO 8 MM ABOVE THE MAXIMUM MARK ON THE ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

SOME 2013-2014 ESCAPE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH EMTC MAY EXHIBIT INCORRECT AIR DISTRIBUTION FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL REGISTERS WHEN PANEL MODE IS SELECTED ON THE HEATING VENTILATION AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) CONTROL PANEL. FOLLOW THE SERVICE PR

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

TO HELP DIFFERENTIATE ENGINE OIL LEAKS FROM OTHER POSSIBLE SOURCES, A NEW WHITE-COLORED FLUORESCENT ENGINE OIL DYE IS AVAILABLE. WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM), SECTION 303-00 HAS BEEN REVISED TO REFERENCE THE NEW WHITE-COLORED DYE. THE NEW WHITE FL

010000 STEERING

SOME 2010-2016 EPAS EQUIPPED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT STEERING RELATED NOISES. THE WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM) DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN SECTION 211-02. WHEN DIAGNOSING AND REPAIRING EPAS STEERING NOISES USE THE UPDATED PROCEDURES.

350000 EQUIPMENT

2013-2017 ESCAPE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MOONROOF EXHIBIT A SMALL VENT OPENING POSITION OF 5 MM. THIS IS THE NORMAL VENT POSITION FOR OPTIMAL NVH/WINDNOISE QUALITIES. WHEN THE VENT IS CLOSED, THE MOONROOF WILL OPEN TO THE 10 MM POSITION THEN

131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

ALL 2013-2017 ESCAPE VEHICLES EXHIBIT A FRAYED/CUT SHORT APPEARANCE AT THE FRONT EDGE OF THE HEADLINER NEAR THE WINDSHIELD. THIS IS A NORMAL CHARACTERISTIC OF THE HEADLINER AND NO REPAIRS SHOULD BE ATTEMPTED.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

SOME 2008-2017 FORD/MERCURY/LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC MAY GENERATE A VHR THAT IDENTIFIES A CONCERN WITH THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION CATEGORY INDICATING SERVICE IS REQUIRED DUE TO A BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LAMP BEING ILLUMINATED. IF THE

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

SOME 2013-2016 FUSION/ESCAPE/MKT/FLEX/MKS/TAURUS, 2015-2016 MKZ/MKC/EDGE AND 2016 MKX VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT VARIOUS RADIO CONCERNS INCLUDING: SPEAKER STATIC WITH KEY-OFF, NO AUDIO AFTER VEHICLE IS FIRST STARTED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (

151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Some vehicles may have a concern where the safety belt retractor webbing does not extract from the stowed position or exhibits excessive pressure on the occupant during use. This may be due to a normal condition which happens when the seatb

150000 SEAT BELTS

061320 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

063200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

063130 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)

063110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY

062200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN

063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

062300 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

ISSUE Some 2013-2014 Focus ST, Fusion, Escape and MKZ vehicles equipped with a 2.0L gasoline turbocharged direct injection (GTDI) engine and built on 9/1/2012 and through 8/1/2013 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

210000 TRAILER HITCHES

INOPERATIVE HANDS-FREE LIFTGATE AFTER ADDITION OF TRAILER HITCH

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

INOPERATIVE HANDS-FREE LIFTGATE AFTER ADDITION OF TRAILER HITCH

Showing 100 of 236 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD ESCAPE

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2020

Failed Door Check Arm Attachment Point

On July 7, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-013 to investigate instances of check arm bracket failure in the front doors in model year (MY) 2020-2021 Ford Escape vehicles. At the time of opening, ODI received 118 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging this failure. T... o date, ODI has received 593 VOQs alleging this failure, with a variety of reported failure conditions. The most common reported failure condition was reduced door functionality (e.g. door was more difficult to open or close) and the least common was inadvertent door opening. Other reported failure conditions include inability to latch and inability to open. Three VOQs reported injuries, one of which requiring medical attention. ODI conducted a consumer survey which yielded an additional 44 injuries (although the VOQs did not indicate any injury), none of which requiring medical attention. All these injuries were bumps/bruises from the door closing on occupants’ arms and legs while entering and exiting the vehicle. The function of the check arm system is to provide hold-open assist at specific angles and to assist with door closing energy. It does not provide vertical support of the door and is independent of the latching mechanism. This failure is progressive and detectable by vehicle occupants. Consumers commonly report hearing a popping or snapping noise when opening and closing the door. This noise is caused by some of the welds between the bracket and door structure failing and detaching. There may also be visible damage present to the welds in the door structure. Continued use of the door may result in all welds separating and the bracket fully detaching from the door structure, which could lead to increased resistance in closing and opening the door, restrained window operation, and the door freely rotating when open. ODI inspected 3 consumer vehicles in the field, and 2 test vehicles at Ford’s testing facility. The test vehicles were retrofitted with the failed component. ODI observed an increased door closing resistance, however, was unable to reproduce an inadvertent open while parked or driving, or a failure to latch or open condition. Testing also verified this failure did not affect the door ajar warning system. This system provides an audible and visual warning in the event a door did not achieve primary latch position. Ford has provided details on a one-time-repair customer satisfaction program (23B56), stating that they will provide customers with a letter, currently targeted for March 2024, to bring their vehicle to a Ford dealership for a proactive repair. Dealers will inspect the door check arm welds for damage and will either provide a rivet plate to reinforce the existing door check arm or will provide a replacement door, depending on the level of damage present. Customers will be eligible for reimbursement if they previously paid to repair this issue. In view of the high detectability of failure, low potential hazard to drivers, and Ford’s customer satisfaction program to provide a proactive repair, this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

AQ, Open , Model Year: 2021

Healey Brothers Ford / Open Recall Sale

NHTSA is opening this audit query to investigate whether Healey Brothers Ford, LLC of Beacon, New York, has complied with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The Safety Act requires, among other things, that a manufacturer notify its dealers of defects related to m... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013

Loss of Motive Power

On July 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) to investigate alleged instances of sudden stalling without warning on model year (MY) 2013 Ford Escape vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI turbocharged engines. Complaints alleged that vehicles stalled ... due to engine overheating, resulting in a delayed or no restart condition. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 40 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs). At this time, ODI has received 173 VOQs with five reported fires and no reported crashes. In investigating the incidents alleged in the VOQs, ODI revisited an apparently related recall that Ford had issued in November 2013 (Recall 13V-583). In Recall 13V-583, Ford recalled all MY 2013 Ford Escape vehicles equipped with the 1.6L engines, built from October 5, 2011, to June 2, 2013. This recall addressed potential engine compartment ﬁres due to localized overheating of the engine cylinder head leading to cracks that can cause oil leaks onto a hot engine surface. The remedy was to provide several enhancements to the engine shielding, cooling and control systems, which involved recalibration of the powertrain calibration module and the instrument cluster system. The recalibration implemented a “Failure Mode Eﬀects Management” (FMEM) strategy to alert the driver of a low coolant state and limit the power to the engine to prevent overheating to the point of cracking the cylinder head. The FMEM strategy includes a “Low Engine Coolant – Service Required” message in the instrument cluster when the coolant reaches a prescribed low level and the engine continues to perform normally, and a coolant level sensor that was incorporated such that if the coolant level is further reduced, the engine enters a reduced power mode (vehicle speed limited to about 40 mph). If the vehicle is driven farther and coolant is not added to the vehicle, the vehicle enters a further reduced power mode and audible and visual alerts will appear and sound, and the engine will be limited to operation at idle speeds. ODI sent Ford an information request letter in August 2018, and, in April 2021, additionally required that Ford provide an update of its ﬁeld and warranty data. In response, Ford provided 4,047 customer complaints, ﬁeld reports, and legal claims, consisting of 3,865 unique VINs, and 47,214 warranty claims, consisting of 33,684 unique VINs. Having had repeated discussions with ODI, Ford eventually binned all 4,047 post-recall reports and all 47,214 warranty claims to those that relate to loss of motive power due to coolant loss. Having so binned these reports and claims, Ford reported that the relevant number dropped to 227 reports with 222 unique VINs and 2,774 warranty claims with 1,875 unique VINs. In analyzing its own responsive data, Ford maintained that the remedy for Recall 13V-583 adequately addresses the risk of loss of motive power resulting from an engine overheat due to low coolant by providing clear warnings and progressive reduced power FMEM strategies. Ford further maintained that some complaints imply that the vehicles properly displayed the advanced and progressive warnings and reduced engine power modes, but that complainants ignored them. Ford, therefore, reported that it has not identiﬁed any further defect in the coolant system and that it believes the rate of complaints of reduced motive power (which some customers perceive reduced power as vehicle stalls) due to low coolant is low for the subject vehicles. Ford further states it believes that it has not identiﬁed any other related unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety due to loss of motive power due to coolant loss or engine overheat. In addition to analyzing the vast amount of responsive data provided by Ford, ODI worked with NHTSA’s Vehicle Research and Test Center to review 1,462 VOQs with 1,347 unique VINs that were potentially related to this investigation. ODI found that 997 VOQs were relevant post-recall complaints. Of these, 161 VOQs included instances of stalling, sometimes preceded by warnings (low engine coolant message, audible/beeping sound, engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination, etc.) and/or drivability issues (reduced power, vehicle jerking or shuddering, etc.). The other categories of complaints/failures were less severe or unrelated/undetermined: 73 related limp mode, nine related stall while vehicle stationary, 21 stalls unknown if related, 271 coolant failure without allegation of stalling, 64 engine MIL with no allegation of stalling, 267 not related to this investigation, 116 unknown if related, and 15 ﬁres (including the initial 5 reports) that were ultimately determined to not be related to this investigation. ODI found that a relatively small percentage of the post-recall complaints involved loss of motive power (161 out of 997 VOQs; and 222 out of 3,865 Ford reports), while the remaining complaints involved vehicles in the early stages of FMEM mode, or were unrelated or undetermined if related to this investigation. ODI has further found that the number of complaints has declined significantly since mid-2021. Based on the analysis of the failure data indicating a declining trend of VOQs of loss of motive power, and in consideration of the remedy for Recall 13V-583 and NHTSA’s ongoing consent order with Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency will continue to monitor this issue under the heightened oversight pursuant to the consent order and the agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identiﬁcation Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2008

Loss of power steering while driving

On May 27, 2014, amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist while driving in approximately 746,067 model year (MY) 2008 through 2011 Ford Escape vehicles equ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2009

Electronic Throttle Body Malfunction

On February 21, 2013, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE13-003 to investigate allegations of electronic throttle body (ETB) failures resulting in sudden reduction of engine power in model year (MY) 2009-2013 Ford Escape, Fusion, Mariner and Milan vehicles. Du... ring this investigation, Ford identified a condition in subject vehicles equipped with 2.5L and 3.0L engines that may result in a sudden reduction of engine power.According to Ford, the ETB internal motor contacts may develop a high resistance material buildup condition on the commutator, resulting in intermittent electrical connectivity and reduced engine power. When this condition occurs, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or Wrench light will illuminate and the vehicle may enter a limited limp home mode.Ford?s trade name for the feature is Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) mode.In this mode, engine power and vehicle speed are reduced, while full function of the power steering, power braking, lighting, and climate control systems are maintained.ODI?s complaint analysis indicate that the predominant failure mode involved reduced motive power associated with the limited limp home mode with engine speeds limited to approximately 900 RPM. Analysis of warranty claims provided by Ford identified 59,807 claims related to ETB replacements and approximately 50 percent of claims are associated with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P2111, Throttle Body Stuck Open, and P2112, Throttle Body Stuck Closed.Ford described several factors where the ETB motor may fail resulting in DTCs P2111 or P2112 but the failure is not an existing stuck open or closed ETB valve position.According to Ford, the ETB control strategy provides the driver with three FMEM modes that allow varying degrees of vehicle mobility depending on the severity of the fault detected.DTCs associated with stuck open or closed throttle valves are designated the highest failure severity resulting in engine speeds limited to high idle corresponding to the limited limp home mode.Vehicles are not likely to unexpectedly stall as a result of this condition, but drivers may characterize the reduced functionality as a stall, even though their vehicle may still has motive capability.Other FMEM limp modes may result in reduced engine performance but will maintain vehicle speed above 20mph. During this investigation, Ford and its suppliers, Delphi and Igarashi, updated the powertrain control module (PCM) software to include a throttle body motor cleaning cycle during key-on and modified the ETB internal motor components design, surface finish and material composition to improve durability. Additionally, Ford developed a remedy procedure and issued a special Customer Satisfaction Program (CSP) 13N03 extending the ETB warranty coverage and instructing dealers to update the powertrain calibration to improve vehicle performance in the event that intermittent electrical connectivity of the throttle body motor contacts occurs. The program extends the coverage for up to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, all vehicles are eligible for the program through January 31, 2015 regardless of mileage.Owners of the affected vehicles will be contacted by mail to take their vehicle to a Ford dealer who will reprogram the PCM to the latest calibration. The bulletin was sent to dealers on January 17, 2014 and the owner letter mailing began on January 27, 2014. See the investigative file for copies of Ford's bulletin and owner letter. This preliminary evaluation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding thatRead more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2005

Electronic Throttle Body Malfunction

In a letter dated August 30, 2012, The North Carolina Consumers Council (NCCC) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a defect investigation of alleged electronic throttle body failures resulting in engine stall or surge while driving in model year (MY) 200... 5 through 2012 Ford Escape vehicles. On October 2, 2012 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Defect Petition DP12-006 to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. The petition is hereby granted on certain model years. The NCCC letter cites two complaints of stall while driving in MY 2009 Ford Escape vehicles that were diagnosed as failed throttle bodies with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P2111, Throttle Body Stuck Open, and P2112, Throttle Body Stuck Closed. The petitioner indicates that the owners of both vehicles reported experiencing repeated incidents of stalling and engine surging. According to Ford, Escape non-hybrid vehicles are equipped with Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) assemblies beginning with MY 2009. Vehicles manufactured between June 22, 2009 and October 15, 2009 may contain contaminated printed circuit boards (PCB) with plating variations. Plating variations could lead to a lack of continuity in the throttle position sensor circuit where P2111 and/or other DTCs would be generated and stored. Ford and its electronic throttle body supplier, Delphi, modified the PCB manufacturing process and issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) 09-23-5. Vehicles produced after October 15, 2009 incorporated ETBs manufactured with a PCB process that resolved this condition. ODI's analysis identified a total of 123 unique reports indicating allegations of reduced motive power or vehicle stall. Depending on the condition of throttle control system malfunction, a driver may experience varying levels of reduced engine performance associated with three limp home modes. In two limp modes, reduced engine performance may maintain vehicle speeds above 20mph while the third is a limited limp home mode with engine speeds limited to approximately 900 RPM. Allegations of stall appear to be related to the limited limp home mode. Vehicles are not likely to unexpectedly stall as a result of this condition, but drivers may characterize the reduced functionality as a stall, even though their vehicle may still has motive capability. Allegations of vehicle surge appear to be related to limp home mode operation. Complaints alleging surge are most likely related to engine RPM fluctuations at low vehicle speeds or idle as the control system engages to prevent engine stall. In limited limp mode, rough-idle conditions may exist while the control system attempts to modulate engine RPMs once the vehicle reaches a reduced speed to maintain approximately 900 RPM. Separately, ODI received 59 complaints alleging incidents of engine stall while driving in model year (MY) 2010-2011 Ford Fusion vehicles. Approximately 60 percent (36) of the incidents occurred at speeds of 40 miles per hour or more. Eighty percent of complaints (47) were received beginning March 2012 and 14 complaints reported that the throttle body was replaced or DTCs associated with limp home modes. Additionally, Ford issued TSB 10-21-6 addressing DTCs associated with idle speed drops and limited limp home mode. The petition is granted on certain model years.Preliminary Evaluation PE13-003 has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.See full copy of the closing resume for this defect petition for list of the VOQs associated with the defect petition analysis.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2002

Cruise Control Cable

On July 8, 2012, The Center for Auto Safety has petitioned NHTSA to open defect investigations on Model Year (MY) 2002 ? 2004 Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute vehicles with certain cruise control cables.The Center for Auto Safety has also petitioned for a hearing to address whether Ford Motor Company (... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

Stuck Throttle

In a letter dated July 25, 2012 Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR), NHTSA Recall No. 12V-353 to NHTSA identifying a safety defect involving inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector, which could result in a stuck throttle c... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2010

Rear Liftgate Window Glass Breakage

In its response to the agency, Ford acknowledged a higher than normal level of glass breakage incidents in the model year (MY) 2010 to early-build MY 2011 subject vehicles.The incidentsoccurred when the liftgate glass was being opened, or more typically while being closed, but in both cases while th... e vehicle was stationery, i.e., not moving on the roadway.Additionally failures often occurred during early morning hours when ambient and/or liftgate glass temperatures may have been lower.Ford advised that it investigated the failures but failed to identify an anomaly in the glass manufacturing process (which is often a factor in glass breakage trends ODI investigates) that could explain the reports.It did however identify a potential thermal expansion/compression condition in the mounting of the rear wiper motor to the liftgate glass.Starting at MY 2008 vehicle production the motor was attached to the glass using an adhesive.Ford revised that design to a nut and bolt type attachment in October 2010, during MY 2011 vehicle production.ODI's review of Ford data indicates that vehicles built after this change exhibit lower glass breakage rates.Among the 296 consumer complaints on the subject vehicles, ODI identified 15 injury incidents resulting in a total of 18 alleged injuries.All the injuries were minor in nature and consisted mainly of superficial skin cuts or minor lacerations, with two of the injury incidents occurring when vehicle owners were cleaning up broken glass.Additionally both the injury rate and report rate (including warranty claims) are low in comparison to similar investigations resulting in safety recalls (see PE04-045, MY 2002 Ford explorer liftgate glass failure, which resulted in NHTSA safety recall 04V442). In November 2010 Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 10-22-10 to address reports of liftgate glass breakage on all MY 2010 vehicles, and MY 2011 vehicles built through 10/15/2010, the date the above design revision was implemented.The TSB enables owners of affected vehicles to have a broken liftgate glass replaced under normal vehicle warranty, which would not otherwise be a warrantable failure, with the revised design liftgate glass.A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

Engine Compartment Fire

Ford and Mazda recalled model year (MY) 2001 through 2004 Ford Escape (07V-156) and Mazda Tribute (07V-157) vehicles due to non-crash fires or non-fire thermal events originating in the engine compartment at or near the ABS control module.Approximately 545,700 vehicles were subject to the initial sa... fety recalls and approximately 424,700 vehicles were serviced under those campaigns. The campaigns addressed potentially damaged, missing or misplaced seals in the ABS control module wiring harness electrical connector that could allow brake fluid to enter the connector, possibly resulting in corrosion, short-circuit, melting, smoke and/or fire.Since the recall, the agency is aware of 260 subject vehicles that have reportedly experienced non-crash fires or non-fire thermal events originating at or near the ABS control module in vehicles some time after being serviced under the campaign. The post-recall repair incident rates for MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles are 90.9 and 126.7 (normalized per 100,000 vehicles serviced under the recall campaigns), respectively.These rates are much higher than the post-recall repair incident rate for MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles, which are 5.0 and 3.7 per 100K, respectively.Similarly, the post-recall repair key-off fire incident rates in the MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles is 54.3 per 100K, compared to 0.5 per 100K for the MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles.The agency is aware of 12 key-off fire incidents, all involving MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles, where the vehicle was parked inside a structure when the fire started.In five of those incidents, the fire spread from the vehicle to the structure itself.Ford has identified the brake master cylinder reservoir cap in certain MY 2001 and 2002 subject vehicles as a potential source for brake fluid leaks that could affect ABS module connector integrity.The reservoir caps used on the MY 2003 and 2004 subject vehicles are reportedly an improved design from those used on the earlier models.By letter dated January 4, 2012, Ford notified the agency that it would conduct another safety recall (identified by NTHSA Recall No. 12V-005 and Ford Recall No. 11S24) of certain MY 2001 and 2002 Ford Escape vehicles to perform a more thorough remedy to address the risk of fire originating at the ABS control module.In addition to double-checking the ABS control module wiring harness electrical connector weather seal (which should have been addressed under the previous recall campaign), Ford will replace brake master cylinder reservoir caps to address the leaking cap problem and reduce the risk of brake fluid entering the subject electrical connector.Ford will also modify the electrical system such that the ABS control module is de-energized when the ignition key is switched off to further reduce the risk of an unattended vehicle fire in units that may have sustained some small loss of connector integrity that may not be evident upon visual examination.Similarly, Mazda notified the agency by letter dated January 19, 2012, that it would also conduct a safety recall (identified by NTHSA Recall No. 12V-016 and Mazda Recall No. 6712A) of certain MY 2001 and 2002 Mazda Tribute vehicles.Ford estimates repair parts will be available beginning the second quarter of 2012. Until recall repairs are made both Ford and Mazda are advising owners of affected vehicles to reduce the safety concern by parking their vehicles outdoors away from structures to prevent a potential fire from spreading.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE

IN LETTERS DATED MARCH 30, 2007, FORD MOTOR COMPANY (FORD) AND MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS (MAZDA) NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT THEY WILL CONDUCT RECALLS 07V-156 AND 07V-157, RESPECTIVELY, TO REMEDY A SAFETY DEFECT THAT MAY RESULT IN FIRE IN A WIRING CONNECTOR USED IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001-20... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) RECEIVED A DEFECT PETITION DATED MARCH 5, 2009 ALLEGING THAT THE PETITIONER NEVER RECEIVED THE RECALL REMEDY FOR 07V-156 AND THAT, AS A RESULT, THE PETITIONER'S MY2003 FORD ESCAPE CAUGHT FIRE AT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE.IN RESPONSE TO ODI FOLLOW-UP, THE MANUFA... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE

IN LETTERS DATED MARCH 30, 2007, FORD AND MAZDA NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT THEY WILL CONDUCT SAFETY RECALLS TO REMEDY A SAFETY DEFECT THAT MAY RESULT IN FIRE IN A WIRING CONNECTOR USED IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001-2004 FORD ESCAPE AND MAZDA TRIBUTE SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ABS.RECALL 07V-156... Read more

RP, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE STALLING

SUMMARY:THE PETITIONER ALLEGES THAT AFTER HAVING THE RECALL REMEDY PERFORMED ON HER MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 FORD ESCAPE, IT CONTINUED TO EXHIBIT AN INTERMITTENT STALL CONDITION.CONSEQUENTLY, SHE PETITIONED THE AGENCY TO EXAMINE THE ADEQUACY OF THE RECALL REMEDY FOR SAFETY RECALL 04V-165.ON APRIL 5, 200... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

SAFETY BELT BUCKLE FAILURE

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON JULY 14, 2003 BASED ON 4 REPORTS ALLEGING THE DRIVER'S SAFETY BELT BUCKLE FAILED TO LATCH OR REMAIN LATCHED.MAZDA NOTIFIED ODI THAT IT TRANSFERRED ENGINEERING RESPONSIBILITY TO FORD WHEN THE VEHICLE DESIGN WAS BROUGHT TO THE UNITED STATES FOR PRODUCTION IN FORD'S ASS... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE STALLING

FORD'S AND MAZDA'S LETTERS TO NHTSA DATED APRIL 5 AND APRIL 9, 2004, STATE THAT THEY WILL RECALL MODEL YEAR 2001-03 FORD ESCAPE AND MAZDA TRIBUTE VEHICLES WITH THE V6 ENGINE BUILT THRU SEPTEMBER 11, 2002.DEALERS WILL ADJUST ENGINE CALIBRATION IN THE PROGRAMMABLE CONTROL MODULE (PCM), WHICH IN ITS CU... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE STALLING

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2001

GASOLINE VAPOR INTRUSION

There is no summary currently available

FORD ESCAPE - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the FORD ESCAPE across all model years (2001, 2026).

223 Total Recalls

35,911 Total Complaints

18 Investigations

1,412 Reported Crashes

799 Reported Fires

24 Reported Deaths

FORD ESCAPE - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	2	7	View
2025	9	33	View
2024	8	136	View
2023	11	151	View
2022	19	302	View
2021	19	437	View
2020	23	2,043	View
2019	3	714	View
2018	4	2,118	View
2017	4	3,232	View
2016	4	1,273	View
2015	9	1,288	View
2014	16	2,650	View
2013 (current)	18	3,674
2012	2	792	View
2011	3	1,871	View
2010	5	3,183	View
2009	3	2,348	View
2008	5	2,404	View
2007	4	350	View
2006	5	627	View
2005	5	2,030	View
2004	8	715	View
2003	9	736	View
2002	10	1,397	View
2001	15	1,389	View
2000	0	5	View

Other FORD Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
MUSTANG	1,104	11,600	View
RANGER	928	10,371	View
F-350 SD	776	2,363	View
F-150	692	46,142	View
F-450 SD	692	624	View
F-250 SD	638	3,635	View
EXPLORER	624	42,549	View
F-550 SD	578	603	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2013 FORD ESCAPE

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2013 FORD ESCAPE

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2013 FORD ESCAPE

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD ESCAPE

FORD ESCAPE - All Years Overview

FORD ESCAPE - Year by Year

Other FORD Models