2015 FORD ESCAPE

9 recalls, 1,351 complaints - 196 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

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image wh... Read more

Consequence

A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on October 25, 2025. Additional le... Read more

1,448,655 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

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

Defect Description

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

Consequence

Remedy

Dealers will replace the under hood shifter bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S25.

96,015 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

SEAT BELTS

Defect Description

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

Consequence

The improperly manufactured bolts may fracture. If a seat, seatback, or seatbelt anchor attaching bolt fractures, the affected component may not be properly secured, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected bolts, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed September 8, 2017. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available in the fourth quarter of 2017. Owners may contact Ford cu... Read more

94,605 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:IGNITION

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 1, 2014, to June 12, 2015, Ford Focus vehicles manufactured June 17, 2014, to June 12, 2015, and Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured April 22, 2014, to June 12, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the en... Read more

Consequence

If the engine does not turn off as expected, someone could move the transmission shifter out of park and the vehicle may move unintentionally, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. The recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C06.

374,781 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured May 19, 2014, to February 6, 2015, and Transit Connect vehicles manufactured May 11, 2014, to July 2, 2015. Due to a software incompatibility issue, the instrument panel cluster be inoperative incl... Read more

Consequence

If the instrument cluster is inoperative, the driver of may not be warned of safety related issues such as low tire pressures or disabled air bags, increasing the risk of personal injury or a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument panel software, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C03.

184,519 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Complaint Statistics

1,351 total complaints 48 crashes 28 fires 47 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	210
POWER TRAIN	207
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	164
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	118
STEERING	95
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	57
SERVICE BRAKES	48
STRUCTURE:BODY	44
AIR BAGS	35
BACK OVER PREVENTION	29

Incident date: Aug 22, 2026

While driving the power steering goes completely out. It jolts suddenly and causes to steer off course. The steering tightens up making it difficult to safely make turns. Occasionally the steering assist goes back on without warning, forcing another jolt and overcorrection. It can not be safely driv... Read more

Incident date: Aug 12, 2015

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact stated that the battery was drained. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however,... Read more

Incident date: Aug 12, 2015

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that on several occasions while in reverse(R), the back-over prevention screen was black. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired; however, the cont... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that occasionally, while shifted in reverse(R), the rear-view camera failed to displa... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); 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.... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the rear-view camera became inoperable. The contact stated that the rearview camera image intermittently fluctuated, with the message "Camera Not Available" displayed. The contact received notification of NHTSA... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while shifted in reverse(R), the rear-view camera failed to display a clear imag... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed an upside-down image. The contact stated that the failure was persistent. The rear-view camera later displayed a black screen and failed to power on. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired... Read more

Incident date: Aug 31, 2023

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while reversing at an undisclosed speed, the rearview camera was intermittently inoperative. No warning lights were illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that they had received notification of notification of NHTSA Campaign Number : 25V695000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION) the local dealer was contacted however the vehicle was not remedied as the contact was advised that the parts to perform the recall ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the parts to perform the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that while driving in reverse, the message "Contact Manufacturer" was display... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The c... Read more

Incident date: Aug 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed an inverted, blank, or blue image. T... Read more

Incident date: Aug 12, 2025

Backup camera malfunction recall. Parts still not available after almost a year. Repair is taking too long. I need my backup camera.

Incident date: Oct 14, 2025

Ford has yet to provide a remedy to this recall nearly a year after being notified. NHTSA: #25V695 Recall: #25SA9 REAR VIEW CAMERA INSPECTION

Incident date: Aug 24, 2026

Door latch will not close

Incident date: Jul 24, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in reverse(R), the rear-view camera displayed a distorted, intermittent, or blank image. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the rec... Read more

Incident date: Jul 29, 2026

Sound control module, can't hook up phone for hands free driving

Incident date: Jul 29, 2026

Sound control module, can't hook up phone for hands free driving

Incident date: Aug 21, 2026

At least once per day the back up camera goes black. While I am in the act of backing up or starting to back up. This has been happening for over 3 years. No one believed me at the dealership for years. Now there is a recall finally recognizing the issue and Ford can not fix it. I am left dea... Read more

Incident date: Aug 21, 2026

Incident date: Oct 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to reverse the vehicle, the vehicle reversed into her in-law's vehicle after the rear-view camera glitched. Neither the independent mechanic nor the dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the deale... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2026

"While driving down a steep mountain hill, my 2015 Ford Escape suffered a sudden and complete loss of electric power steering assist without any advance warning... We came within inches of a catastrophic collision and almost crashed directly into a utility pole." I'm absolutely terrified & Now goin... Read more

Incident date: Mar 18, 2026

Engine cylinder head. Coolant is leaking into the engine cylinder(s) (coolant intrusion). Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I was driving to DCA and while on [XXX] on the highway my engine totally overheated requiring I drift into an isolated parking area near east potomac park. I c... Read more

Incident date: May 26, 2026

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

Rear view camera is unavailable on center display screen. NHTSA Recall # 25v695

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); 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.... Read more

Incident date: Aug 4, 2026

theres an electrical problem concern the tcu my doors are locking and unlocking and the car is indicating ive had several accidents and i havent the radio is coming on automaticlly and the lights flicker and the horn turning signals and lights flicker and wont turn off unlesss i hit the key fob butt... Read more

Incident date: Aug 13, 2025

The contact's father owns a 2015 Ford Escape. While the owner was reversing, the message “No Signal” was displayed. In addition, the contact stated that the signal fluctuated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with rear-view camera failure. The contact was informed that... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); 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.... Read more

Incident date: Jul 24, 2026

I am hoping you can help me. I have a 2015 Ford Escape. It has 107,000 miles on it. I do the regular maintenance items as needed. Last Friday I was driving my car and my temperature gauge went to Hot and my Check Engine Light came on. It said to pull over and stop engine. I pulled over and let it c... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

The contact owns a 1996 Carriage Carri-Lite Cashay RV equipped with Goodyear Tires, Tire Line: Marathon 528RKS, Tire Size: ST225/85 /R16, DOT Number: [XXX]. The contact stated that while the RV was parked, the front driver’s tire tread had separated, with the coils and pieces of tread coming off t... Read more

Incident date: Aug 11, 2025

Numerous times since purchasing my van it has failed to start. At first it was just random at a stop light when I would forget to turn off the idle stop. Leaving me stuck at stop lights with a vehicle that won't turn on without multiple attempts. More recently it struggles to start after stopping to... Read more

Incident date: Nov 30, 2025

On XXX, my 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring experienced a severe fire in the engine compartment. I observed burning material/flames dripping from underneath the engine compartment before the fire spread upward. The fire caused extensive damage to the engine compartment and the vehicle is no longer driva... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Aug 6, 2026

My 2023 Kia Telluride (VIN [XXX]) has an intermittent no-start/no-crank defect that has occurred on four separate occasions between [XXX] and [XXX] (mileage range 49,850–51,180). In each occurrence, the dashboard and infotainment system power on normally, but the engine will not crank when the sta... Read more

Incident date: Aug 6, 2026

RECALL COMPLIANCE & SAFETY DEFECT DESCRIPTION: The vehicle was transported via roadside assistance to a licensed manufacturer dealership due to severe engine overheating under an active manufacturer safety recall. Service personnel systematically modified intake paperwork to alter the true mechanica... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2025

2026 Trailseeker 12-volt battery totally dead upon entering vehicle. I was stranded for 2 hours in a remote place. Very unsafe. This is a new vehicle.

Incident date: Jun 1, 2025

The contact leased a 2024 Dodge Charger EV. The contact stated that after the passenger’s side rear tire became deflated, the vehicle was taken to a tire shop, and the contact was informed that there was severe inner tire wear that had caused the tire to deflate. The technician stated that the tir... Read more

Incident date: Aug 4, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle went into the death wobble. The contact pulled over to the side of the road to inspect the vehicle before driving to the residence. The failure had occurred three times. The vehicle was taken to the deal... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Mazda CX-90. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 70 MPH with the cruise control activated, her husband attempted to deactivate the cruise control before exiting the highway; however, the cruise control failed to deactivate. The brake pedal was depressed, but... Read more

2 injured

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the camera was turning on and off independently. The contact stated that it was difficult to reverse without the camera being operational. While reversing, the camera became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. An unknown ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 11, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the instrument panel shut off without warning. The vehicle was restarted, and the panel remained blank with white streaks across the screen. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, and the dealer assoc... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

With a 103,000 on the dash, engine experienced signs on slowing, check engine, abs, adaptive cruise, and steering faults amongst others . No lights prior to the bearing failing. The engine experienced rod bearing failure and left use stranded on the side of the highway. All maintenance was perfor... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

Power steering goes out while driving in towns or on hiways.frequently comes back on while parked for a few hours or days. Unpredictable while driving.dangerous.

Incident date: Oct 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Veloster. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH with his two-year-old daughter in the vehicle, the automatic emergency braking system erroneously engaged and caused the vehicle to come to a stop, which almost caused a crash. The contact stated that the failure ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 18, 2026

Rear suspension control arm assembly (that supports the springs, control arm rods, shocks, as well as the the hub, brakes and wheel ) breaks completely due to rust and corrosion. It is a poor design that you can see this would happen at the weakest and narrowest section of the part. This causes the ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

The stereo/infotainment system starts making an extremely loud static sound which comes through the speakers. It can be ear piercing at times. Sometimes this triggers the infotainmnet system controls not to work. I have to stop the car, turn off the engine and open the door to hopefully reset the... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

Coolant leak from faulty engine design into cylinder 2.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

On July 24th 2026, while operating my 2015 Dodge Dart, I was backing up in reverse and attempted to shift the vehicle into Park. During this normal shifting process, the transmission shift cable failed/broke, causing the vehicle to become stuck in Reverse and preventing me from safely shifting the v... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,351 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2015 FORD ESCAPE

2015 Ford Escape SUV FWD

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	19.1%

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, 2015 FORD ESCAPE

196 manufacturer communications from 119 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	20
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	19
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	18
100000 POWER TRAIN	14
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	11
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	6
220000 SEATS	6
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.	4

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbocharg

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2018 C-MAX, 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles may indicate an incorrect shifter lever position. This may be due to the bushing at the transmission end of the shifter lever c

220000 SEATS

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

354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing th

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

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

100000 POWER TRAIN

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2018 C-MAX, 2013-2019 Escape, 2014-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles may indicate an incorrect shifter lever position. This may be due to the bushing at the transmission end of the shifter lever c

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

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

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

220000 SEATS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SSM 48619 - Various Vehicles - Perimeter Alarm Armed And Original Vehicle Keys Cannot Be Accessed to Enter Vehicle - CAN Protection Strategy Some 2013-2016 Model Year Vehicles may exhibit a concern in which the Perimeter Alarm is active

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some 2015-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing t

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Some 2013-2015 Fusion/MKZ/Escape/MKC with a 1.6L GTDI, 1.5L GTDI, or 2.0L GTDI may exhibit a lack of power, loss of power, or stall when placed in gear with DTCs P00C6, P0087, P008A, P008B, P018C, or P018D. If normal diagnosis leads to a bi

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

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

130000 VISIBILITY

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

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2015-2018 Edge and 2015-2019 Fusion/MKZ/Escape/MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a low coolant level, white exhaust smoke and/or a runs rough condition with or without an illuminated malfunction indicator la

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX, Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles not equipped with an auto start/stop system may exhibit an inability to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part body control module

020000 SUSPENSION

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

022000 SUSPENSION:REAR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2015-2017 vehicles may experience a no crank concern due to a security access key table error. When attempting to program keys or perform a parameter reset, the procedure may fail and the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) scan tool ma

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

106220 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2014-2015 Escape, 2015 C-Max and Focus vehicles equipped with integrated remote start may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0116 in the powertrain control module (PCM) immediately following a remote start e

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX,Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles may exhibit a concern of not able to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part Body Control Module(BCM). Inspect the BCM for the presen

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

220000 SEATS

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2014-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit a concern of not able to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part BCM. Inspect the BCM for the presence of fuse F88. If the fuse is missing, install the correct size

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2015-2018 Edge, Fusion, Focus, MKZ, MKC, Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit coolant consumption, white smoke and/or a runs rough condition. Refer to the extended coolant pressure test and checking for combustio

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

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

210000 TRAILER HITCHES

020000 SUSPENSION

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2015-2017 Escape vehicles built on or before 5-Apr-2017 with factory trailer tow may exhibit a concern with a trailer lamp out warning and/or BLIS not available warning without a trailer connected. Access connectors C439 (4 pin) and C4

220000 SEATS

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2015-2018 Fusion/MKZ/MKC/Escape/Edge vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a runs rough condition with DTCs P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304 and/or P0316. This may be due to coolant intrusion due to corrosion on th

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 AND ENGINE COOLING

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 (PWS)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

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

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

020000 SUSPENSION

SOME 2015-2017 ESCAPE AND MKC VEHICLES WITHOUT A VEHICLE DYNAMIC SUSPENSION SYSTEM AND BUILT ON 1-APR-2015 AND THROUGH 1-OCT-2016 MAY EXHIBIT A RATTLE AND/OR CLUNKING NOISE FROM THE REAR SUSPENSION WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPS AND/OR MAKING TUR

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

SOME 2015-2017 ESCAPE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH EMTC AND BUILT ON OR BEFORE 8-APR-2016 MAY EXHIBIT INCORRECT AIR DISTRIBUTION FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL REGISTERS WHEN PANEL MODE IS SELECTED ON THE HEATER VENTILATION AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) CON

102300 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR

MULTIPLE 2014-2016 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 6F35 TRANSMISSION AND BUILT ON 1-JAN-2014 AND THROUGH 31-DEC-2015 MAY EXHIBIT HARSH REVERSE ENGAGEMENT AND HARSH/DELAYED 3RD AND 5TH GEAR UP/DOWN SHIFTS WITH NO DTCS PRESENT. THIS MAY BE DUE TO A ME

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)

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

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SOME 2015-2017 EDGE/MKX, ESCAPE/MKC, FUSION/MKZ AND EXPLORER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.0L OR 2.3L MAY EXHIBIT DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE APPEARANCE COVER, VALVE COVER AND/OR INTAKE MANIFOLD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO REMOVE THE APPEARANCE COVER. TO REDU

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SOME 2015-2016 ESCAPE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.6L GASOLINE TURBOCHARGED DIRECT INJECTION (GTDI) ENGINES BUILT ON OR BEFORE 9/30/15 MAY EXHIBIT RUNS ROUGH, LACK OF POWER, SURGE, BUCK/JERK, MISS, LOSS OF RPM, HESITATION AND/OR AN ILLUMINATED

Showing 100 of 196 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

36,389 Total Complaints

18 Investigations

1,428 Reported Crashes

814 Reported Fires

25 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	37	View
2024	8	139	View
2023	11	154	View
2022	19	316	View
2021	19	464	View
2020	23	2,123	View
2019	3	746	View
2018	4	2,186	View
2017	4	3,284	View
2016	4	1,365	View
2015 (current)	9	1,351
2014	16	2,667	View
2013	18	3,684	View
2012	2	792	View
2011	3	1,878	View
2010	5	3,185	View
2009	3	2,349	View
2008	5	2,407	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

2015 FORD ESCAPE

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2015 FORD ESCAPE

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2015 FORD ESCAPE

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD ESCAPE

FORD ESCAPE - All Years Overview

FORD ESCAPE - Year by Year

Other FORD Models