Most Escape problems trace back to the engine. On 2013-2019 EcoBoost models, watch for coolant loss and overheating. On 2020-2023 models with the 1.5L three-cylinder, check the oil separator and fuel injector fire recalls. On hybrids, check the 2.5L engine failure campaign. Any 2013-2019 Escape should also have the shifter bushing recall done.
The Escape is a common compact SUV in Boca Raton because it is cheap to buy used, easy to park at Town Center and comfortable for commuting on I-95. Ford built it for North America from 2001 until 2026, and has said the 2026 model is the last. Most used Escapes for sale here are 2013 or newer.
RepairPal rates the Escape 4.0 out of 5, 16th of 26 compact SUVs. Average annual repair cost is about $600, a little above the $521 compact SUV average, with about 0.3 unscheduled visits a year and an 11 percent chance that a repair is severe, which matches the class.
Those averages hide a split. A 2.5L non-turbo or hybrid Escape that has been maintained tends to be cheap to own. The turbo four-cylinders from 2013-2019 and the three-cylinder from 2020-2023 account for most of the large bills and most of the recalls.
Ford Escape generations
Fourth generation
2020-2026Shares its platform with the European Kuga. The plug-in hybrid has a 14.4 kWh battery and a rated electric range of 37 miles. Refreshed for 2023 with new trim names. Ford ended the Escape after the 2026 model year.
Third generation
2013-2019The first Escape built off a European design. Refreshed for 2017, when the 1.5L replaced the 1.6L and Sync 3 arrived. No hybrid in this generation.
Second generation
2008-2012Boxy, simple and still common as a cheap second car. Electronic stability control became standard with this generation.
Known Ford Escape problems by year
Coolant leaking into the cylinders on EcoBoost four-cylinders
Class actions allege that the cylinder head seals let coolant into the combustion chambers. Symptoms include a coolant reservoir that drops slowly, white exhaust smoke at startup, misfire codes and overheating. In bad cases the head cracks or the engine fails. Out of warranty, a confirmed internal leak usually means a cylinder head or a replacement engine.
Guide: Why is white smoke coming from my exhaust?1.6L EcoBoost cylinder head overheating and fire risk
On 2013 models, localized overheating can crack the cylinder head and leak oil onto hot parts (13V-583). On 2014 models, driving with low coolant can do the same (17V-209). That recall added a coolant level sensor and software. If the low-coolant warning comes on in one of these, stop and let the engine cool before checking it.
Guide: Engine overheating: what to do right now, and what causes itShifter cable bushing can fall off
The rubber bushing that connects the shift cable to the transmission can break down or detach. Then the gear you select may not be the gear the transmission is in, and the vehicle can roll after you shift to Park. Recall 22V-413 replaces the bushing and adds a protective cap. A shifter that feels loose or vague is a warning sign.
Guide: Why does my car shift hard or late?Oil and fuel leaks on the 1.5L three-cylinder
Two separate recalls apply. The oil separator housing can crack and leak oil (22V-191, 2020-2022). Fuel injectors can crack and spray fuel in the engine bay (22V-859 for 2020-2023, then 24V-187, 25V-165 and 25V-467 as Ford extended and redid the remedy). A raw fuel smell or a drip under the engine is a reason to park outside and call the dealer.
Guide: Why does my car smell like something is burning?Engine failure fire risk on the 2.5L hybrid and plug-in hybrid
If a hybrid engine fails, oil and fuel vapor can escape near hot exhaust parts and start a fire. Recall 23V-380 tells owners to pull over and shut off if they hear unusual engine noise, lose power or see smoke. Dealers replace the engine on affected 2023 models and update software on earlier ones. Recall 25V-345 covers vehicles that were repaired incorrectly the first time.
Guide: What is that knocking noise coming from my engine?Rear drive unit low on lubricant
Some rear drive units left the factory with too little lubricant and can seize, which can cause a loss of drive or control. Recall 21V-011 checks the level and replaces the unit if it is below minimum. A whine from the rear that rises with speed on an AWD Escape is worth a check.
Notable recalls
- 22V-413 (2013-2019): The shifter cable bushing can degrade or detach, so the vehicle may not be in the selected gear and can roll away. Dealers replace the bushing and add a cap.
- 22V-859 (2020-2023 (1.5L)): A fuel injector can crack and leak fuel in the engine compartment. Later campaigns 24V-187, 25V-165 and 25V-467 extend and correct the remedy.
- 22V-191 (2020-2022 (1.5L)): The engine oil separator housing can crack and leak oil, which is a fire risk.
- 23V-380 (2020-2023 (2.5L hybrid and PHEV)): After an engine failure, oil and fuel vapor can collect near ignition sources and cause a fire. Remedy is an engine replacement on 2023 models and software on others.
- 13V-583 (2013 (1.6L)): Localized cylinder head overheating can crack the head and leak oil onto hot surfaces. Dealers modify engine shielding, cooling and controls.
- 17V-209 (2014 (1.6L)): Driving with low coolant can overheat and crack the cylinder head. Dealers add a coolant level sensor with supporting hardware and software.
Recall repairs are free at any franchised Ford dealer. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, since this list is not complete.
Maintenance that matters
| Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles | Synthetic oil and filter. On EcoBoost engines, check the cold coolant level at every oil change and write it down so you notice a slow drop. |
| Every 10,000 miles | Tire rotation and brake inspection. On hybrids, brake pads last much longer because regenerative braking does most of the stopping, but the caliper slides still need lubrication. |
| Every 30,000 miles | Engine air filter. Rear drive unit and power transfer unit fluid checks on AWD models. |
| Every 60,000 miles | Spark plugs on turbo engines. |
| Every 100,000 miles | Spark plugs on the 2.5L and hybrid. First coolant change per Ford's schedule, earlier if testing shows the coolant is worn. |
| Every 150,000 miles | Automatic transmission fluid on the 6-speed and 8-speed. If you drive mostly in stop-and-go traffic, do it sooner. |
Confirm against your owner's manual or maintenance minder for your exact year and engine.
Typical Ford Escape repair costs
| Job | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic oil change | $70-$120 | |
| Cylinder head or head gasket, 1.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost | $2,200-$3,800 | Often the shop recommends a replacement engine instead. |
| Replacement engine, 2013-2019 EcoBoost | $5,000-$8,000 | |
| Shifter cable bushing, out of recall | $90-$200 | |
| Front pads and rotors | $320-$550 | |
| Spark plugs, 1.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost | $180-$320 | |
| Thermostat and coolant service | $250-$450 | |
| 12V battery, hybrid or start-stop model | $220-$350 | AGM batteries cost more than standard ones. |
Typical South Florida ranges for parts and labor, for budgeting only. Your quote depends on the vehicle and the shop.
Buying a used Ford Escape
- Among the 2013-2019 models, a 2.5L non-turbo Escape avoids the EcoBoost coolant problems and is the safest choice if you mainly drive around town. Expect less power and slightly worse fuel economy than the turbo models.
- Treat any 2013-2019 EcoBoost Escape as a coolant-system inspection, not just a test drive. Look for white smoke on a cold start, a dry coolant reservoir and any history of overheating. A pressure test and a cylinder leak-down test from a shop cost far less than the engine they might save.
- In the 2020 and later generation, the hybrid is the best fit for Boca traffic and avoids the 1.5L injector and oil separator recalls. Confirm 23V-380 work and any later follow-up campaigns by VIN.
- A 2020-2022 1.5L Escape can be a fair deal if every injector and oil separator campaign shows closed. If any are open, get them done before you hand over money, because these are fire-risk campaigns.
The Florida factor
A slow coolant leak hurts more in Palm Beach County than up north. An EcoBoost Escape that loses a little coolant can run fine through January, then overheat in a July backup on Glades Road when the radiator fan and A/C condenser are working at full load. Check the coolant every couple of weeks in summer, not just at oil changes.
Hybrid Escapes suit Boca stop-and-go driving well, but their 12-volt battery and the high-voltage pack both age faster in heat. Parking in a garage or shaded deck instead of an open lot at Delray Marketplace makes a difference over several summers.
Snowbirds who leave an Escape parked for the season should close every open fuel and oil recall before leaving, disconnect or maintain the 12-volt battery, and check under the hood for a fuel smell before the first drive back.
Repair shops near Boca Raton
- Boca Auto Fix4301 Oak Circle, Boca Raton, FL, 33431
- Element, Pickup trucks and trailer repair3120D Northwest 16th Terrace, Pompano Beach, FL, 33064
- Europen Auto Service CentreParkland, FL
- Ferrari of Boca Raton6403 W Rogers Cir, Boca Raton, FL, 33487
- FirestonePompano Beach, FL
- Firestone1259 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL, 33432
Ford Escape FAQ
Which Ford Escape years should I avoid?
The 2013-2014 1.6L EcoBoost models carry the most risk, because of cylinder head overheating and the coolant intrusion claims. A 2017-2019 1.5L or 2.0L needs a careful coolant check. 2020-2023 1.5L models are fine once every fuel and oil recall is completed.
Is the Escape Hybrid reliable?
The hybrid avoids the turbo engines' coolant and fuel injector problems. Its main campaign is 23V-380, an engine failure fire precaution, so make sure that work and any follow-up campaign are done.
Why does my Escape keep losing coolant with no leak?
On an EcoBoost model, coolant may be getting into the cylinders. Have a shop do a cooling system pressure test and a combustion gas test. Do not keep topping it off for months, because the problem can crack the head.
Will parts still be available now that the Escape is discontinued?
Yes, for years to come. Automakers keep supplying service parts long after a model ends, and the Escape shares its 1.5L engine and many recall parts with the Bronco Sport and Lincoln Corsair.
Guides for Ford Escape owners
More for Ford owners: Ford owner's guide
- Wikipedia: Ford Escape, generations and powertrains
- CarComplaints: Ford EcoBoost class action over coolant leaks in 1.5L, 1.6L and 2.0L engines
- NHTSA recall filing 22V-859: Escape and Bronco Sport 1.5L fuel injector
- RepairPal: Ford Escape reliability and repair cost
General information, not a diagnosis. A car problem can have causes a guide cannot see, so have anything safety-related inspected in person. Read our editorial policy.