2016 FORD Escape Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
909
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
POWER TRAIN
252 complaints
My 2016 Ford Escape 1.6L AWD had a total transmission failure rendering my car unmovable in the road while driving, putting both mine and other drivers safety at risk. The issue has been diagnosed and confirmed by a local shop. The transmission oil has been changed and vehicle serviced without any issues for the whole of the vehicles lifespan. Slow gear shifts and acceleration started only days prior to the total loss of the ability to accelerate or shift into any any gear including reverse.
Jan 16, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to reverse into the garage, the vehicle failed to respond as intended while in reverse(R). The contact stated that upon test-driving the vehicle, the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the vehicle felt like the transmission had shifted to neutral, and the vehicle started losing power. The contact stated that the failure occurred several times while driving to an independent mechanic. The contact pulled over as needed. The contact was able to drive to Gateway Automotive Experts, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure, and the contact requested assistance in prorating the vehicle; however, the request was denied. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The contact stated that upon listing the vehicle for sale on Facebook Marketplace, the contact noticed that other Ford vehicles with the same transmission were listed with transmission failure. The contact stated that the mileage range of the Ford vehicles with defective transmissions was 75,000-125,000. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.
Jan 06, 2026
Complete loss of power and the transmission just going out, there was no warning or indication that something was wrong with the transmission prior to it going out on the highway. Car has 120K miles on it. It was diagnosed as needing a new transmission, and cooler. The pump may have needed to be replaced as well. But the transmission was pushing fluid out into the engine. If the car was fixed, I would likely need a new engine as well. This was a platinum edition 2016 Ford Escape.
Dec 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the message "Transmission Fault" was displayed once. Additionally, the contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond as needed and shuddered abnormally. The contact stated that the vehicle decelerated and jerked forward while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the transmission was replaced; however, the vehicle hesitated to shift into gears while driving. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000(Power Train), which the contact related to the failure. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Nov 07, 2025
With no warnings the automatic transmission went into like limp mode. Shifted hard then no acceleration when pressing on gas. Faulty transmission light came on. I bought extended warranty when I purchased this car in 2020 from dealer. The warranty expired in August 2024. The transmission tore up in Oct. 2024. Took it to transmission guy who put it on code reader. 3 codes came up and he said it was bad. I bought the car at 55,000 miles and it tore up at 104,000 miles. Don't know if dealer ever changed fluid before I bought it but they never said anything to me about changing the transmission fluid. Transmission guy told me the filter was internal and couldn't be changed. The dealer said fluid should be changed around 50 to 60,000 miles and I guess they didn't do it. I went to them for 4 years for servicing and they never mentioned it to me. I lost my husband in 2021 so I was uneducated on things of that nature. I feel Ford should have to fix it or compensate for it.
Nov 04, 2025
+ 247 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
98 complaints
Coolant intrusion into the ecosystem turbo. It is a known issue, but not disclosed and now the engine has to be replaced at a cost of what the vehicle is worth?!
Jan 09, 2026
My car set a code , and the engine misfired. I took all the necessary steps, but the code reappeared. I have Car Shield, and they are saying its cracked block but refuse to replace the head gasket. My mechanic believes it's the head gasket, so a cracked block seems common in these cars, as does a bad head gasket. What should I do, and whom should I contact to fight Car Shield and Ford?
Dec 31, 2025
Escape has developed water intrusion in cylinder #2 of the 2.0 ECOBOOST engine, with under 80,000 miles. continued driving of the car could cause overheating due to low coolant and potential motor seizing. check engine light has come on, with cylinder misfire but no low coolant warnings. Potential engine seizing will be a safety concern if the vehicle is in motion, causing loss of control and damage to passengers and other motorists. I have footage of the cylinder leak via inspection camera if needed.
Dec 05, 2025
Car has been checked for coolant loss and pressure tested coolant system. Was told coolant is leaking internally. Car is at 120,000 miles.
Nov 22, 2025
Water leaking into cylinder number 3, causing misfires and loss of coolant/ overheating
Nov 21, 2025
+ 93 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
84 complaints
The Ford SYNC infotainment system failed and produced no audio and no hands-free phone functionality. This created a safety risk because the driver could not use hands-free calling and could not hear navigation prompts, warning chimes, or system alerts, increasing distraction while driving. A Ford dealer diagnosed internal failures in the APIM and Audio Control Module (ACM). The APIM was replaced and programmed, but audio did not return until the ACM was also replaced. The issue was repaired. This report is submitted to document a safety-related failure of the Ford SYNC system for review of potential defects affecting other vehicles.
Dec 25, 2025
I went to the dealership to clear my recall with Ford for my 2016 Ford Escape. It has been 30 days but Ford has still not cleared the recall with NHTSA to clear my vehicle.
Nov 17, 2025
My review camera goes in and out and says unavailable
Oct 02, 2025
Transmission failed while driving vehicle.
Oct 01, 2025
This is not a report of an incident but is a report of an ongoing failure of the rear back up camera system. Recently there has been recalls (two that I’m aware of) of specific Ford vehicles for this specific problem, however, my vehicle has not been included as of yet. I have checked on your website for my vin number but it only says no recalls due. I have had a failure of this nature for at least 6 months with the camera saying it is not available, within seconds showing upside down flashing images, etc. it is unusable as a reliable guide. It has been inspected with an advisory to take it to Ford dealership which I am not able to afford at this point.
Sep 30, 2025
+ 79 more complaints for this component
STEERING
56 complaints
Steering went out suddenly and i was unable to move my steering wheel in the middle of driving. I had no warning lights or other symptoms before losing steering.
Jan 28, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver became aware that the electric power steering was not functioning properly, which required the driver to increase the efforts to steer the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure had been recurring while driving. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer or an independent mechanic. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall that did not include the year of the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 122,000.
Nov 07, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the power steering assist failed to function as intended, and the steering wheel was stuck while attempting to turn the steering wheel to the left or the right. There were no warning lights illuminated. The failure had progressively worsened, and it was difficult to maneuver the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the power steering system had failed and needed to be repaired. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, AutoNation Ford Panama City (730 W 15th St, Panama City, FL 32401); who confirmed the diagnosis from the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Aug 13, 2025
My steering wheel became loose on my 2016 Ford Escape while driving the car. I went home due to this safety hazard so not to cause a major accident. I went online to see if there was a recall on my car for this safety item. I found out my car had no recalls however, the 2014-2018 Ford Fusion and the Lincoln MKZ were recall for steering wheels detachments. I went to Coggin Ford (Jacksonville, FL) to inspect my car. Ford did not find a recalls on my car and found the steering wheel bolt that holds the steering wheel to the steering column was loose. They removed the bolt and installed lock-tight just like in the recall of the other vehicles. I have a video of the loose steering wheel prior to delivering the car to Ford, Ford sent a video on the required service to fix the loose steering wheel, and I have invoice showing Ford repaired the loose steering wheel. I scanned the invoiced into the system. Ford service video is in an MP4 format and unable to change, if you give me an email address, I can forward the service request video to you to view. I took a video of the loose steering wheel with my cell phone however, the video is too large to forward in this document. If I could get a cell number, I could forward this video to you.
Aug 05, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon reversing out of the driveway, the power steering assist failed with the "Steering Assist Fault Service required" message displayed on the instrument panel. The dealer was notified of the failure and instructed the contact to bring the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the steering angle sensor module was defective. The mechanic replaced the part and then discovered that the steering was not operating as needed. The manufacturer was notified by the dealer about the issue and the contact was informed that the gear assembly needed to be replaced. The contact reached out to the manufacturer and was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The contact was then provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle remained with the dealer unrepaired. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000.
Feb 03, 2025
+ 51 more complaints for this component
BACK OVER PREVENTION
52 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 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 to reverse, the screen displayed an upside-down image. No warning light was illuminated. Several local dealers were contacted, including Chalmers Ford (2500 Rio Rancho Blvd SE, Corrales, NM 87048), Rich Ford Sales (8601 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112); however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Jan 30, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The back-over prevention camera had started to fail, and the image was blurry. The contact called the local dealer for several months to check on parts availability. The dealer informed the contact that the part was not available, and another notification would be sent when the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 176,000.
Jan 30, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 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 rear-view camera displayed a black screen while the vehicle was in reverse(R). In addition, the alarm to warn the driver when a pedestrian was walking behind the vehicle or if an oncoming vehicle was behind the vehicle, failed to function as intended. The message "Rear-view camera Unavailable" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jan 29, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed a white screen. The contact stated that it was difficult to see what was behind the vehicle. The failure was a persistent failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jan 27, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while in reverse(R), the rearview camera was inoperable. The stated that the rearview camera displayed an intermittent and brief image. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts was not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.
Jan 22, 2026
+ 47 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
44 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that there was coolant intrusion in cylinder #3, resulting in damage to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 54,000.
Sep 02, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was overheating before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failure persisted. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that coolant intrusion into cylinder #4 had resulted in engine damage. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 65,000.
Aug 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that coolant intrusion into various cylinders had resulted in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Jul 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 25 MPH, she noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust. The driver pulled over into a gas station and called her husband to inform him of the failure and drove the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was taken a dealer and was inspected, and the technician became aware of a leak; however, the technician was unable to determine the location of the leak. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer where it was diagnosed with coolant leaking into cylinder #1. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 22-2229 (Eco boost 2.0L Engine Failures); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was 132,000.
Jul 03, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and the engine overheated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road and the contact turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and driven to the residence. The contact was aware of white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a cracked engine block. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the vehicle was scheduled to be taken to the dealer for an upcoming diagnostic test. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Jun 30, 2025
+ 39 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
34 complaints
While driving my vehicle my vehicle would suddenly stall while in motion. This stalling happens while driving and has stalled in the middle of intersections causing passing vehicles to slam there breaks to avoid hitting me. In addition my vehicle has stalled and almost causing rear end collisions. There would be no warning signs or no lamps that turn on when it first stalls. After the initial stalling of the vehicle it would rough idle, tug and continue to stall. Until I get to a destination. A check engine lamp may turn on once in awhile but not always. If the mechanic shop is closed and I try to take my car the next day the lamp would be off and it would not stall anymore until I use it further. I have taken my car to a Napa when the engine lamp turned on and pulled a code for fuel pump. Although when I get it to my mechanic the light has turned off and they cant get a code from it. This has been happening for approximately a year now. It also seems to happen when fuel gets to quarter tank or less. This happens multiple times approximately 1-2 times everyb2 weeks.
Jul 13, 2025
Car suddenly stalled out and stopped. Restarted and stalled again, and several more times. Diagnosed with fuel pump failure.
Aug 02, 2023
2016 Ford Focus SE check engine light code P1450 Malfunctioning Canister Purge Valve / Fuel Tank Vacuum. This error is common and known. This causes the engine to not start after fueling. And engine to buck / stall while in Motion / driving. Yet no recall notice on file for vin.
Apr 08, 2022
My car has 25000.00 miles on it. This started last year. It is a 2016 escape. Runs fine until I put gas in it. The car will not start after I fill up. I thought I was crazy, as that is the only time it does this. Once I get it started it is fine until I fill up again. I look online to see if anyone else had this problem and found out it is common with this car. I spent 257.00 for new purge valve and it fixed the problem. The car never showed a check engine or code. This is a comon problem and should be recalled!
Dec 01, 2021
VEHICLE AT VARIOUS TIMES ACTS AS IF IT IS NOT GETTING FUEL, TENDS TO ALMOST STALL, SEEMS TO BE WHEN MAKING START FROM BEING STOPPED THEN MOVING FORWARD AND SOMETIMES WHEN MAKING LEFT TURN AT LIGHT, OCCASIONALLY ON RIGHT .
Jan 27, 2021
+ 29 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
31 complaints
Rear view Camera not displaying when put in reverse frequently or camera displaying but goes blank in the middle of backing up. This has been occurring for at least 3-4 months. It is very frightening as it takes my mind a second or two to comprehend the rearview camera has gone blank in the middle of backin up. The camera does not always have a problem but is too frequent. I have been I’ll so have not driven too much last 2 months but I am better now. Please add my vehicle to the Rearview recall.
Jul 07, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 116,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 159,759.
Jun 09, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, he noticed the instrument panel displayed a blank image. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the instrument panel cluster had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified and provided the contact with the recall number. The contact was relating to the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V406000( ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 73,000.
Apr 18, 2025
Numerous warning lights and chimes activated at once while driving including Hill Start Assist, Traction Control, etc. This has happened randomly while driving under various conditions and reports of such on forums may be related to an ECM or a 4WD module not grounded properly. Some owners have had to have software and hardware updates to solve issue or replacement of modules.
Mar 20, 2025
Since October 2022, we have had to replace the front signal wiring harnesses on the car four (4) times due to the wiring being coated with a substance that rodents are being attracted to. It seems that is has happened again. We have not yet taken it to our repair shop for confirmation this time, but we had an incident with our Kia (Vin [XXX] ) in November 2024. In this case the clutch assembly wiring had been chewed and the assembly had to be replaced. We had the Kia towed to the dealer for repair, so all incidents are documented by repair shops. Not having proper signaling can cause accidents, but I think chewing of other wiring such as the clutch assembly can be an even greater cause for concern. What part will be chewed next. With the clutch assembly we were shown a check engine light and with the signals, the signals sounded different. I know from being on the Next Door website that other people in the area have had the same problems. I think this problem of the coating on wiring should be checked before it causes a serious accident. I put the date of the Kia incident on the bottom because I considered this the most serious. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 07, 2025
+ 26 more complaints for this component
WHEELS
28 complaints
My Ford mechanic states that my lug nuts are swollen. This would make it impossible for me to change my tires if something happened and I had a flat tire on the road. This seems a like a clear manufacturing defect and should be addressed at their expense not mine. Ford is quoting a price of $276 (without taxes) to replace all lug nuts. This is ridiculous.
Nov 10, 2024
There was a flat on the left rear tire last Friday, Aug 2. It had to be changed at home because it was ruined and could not be aired up. When I tried to take the lug nuts off, the plastic coating on the nuts (whose stupid idea was that!!) made it impossible to get the Ford lug wrench on the nuts. Since my options at that time were very limited, I hammered the lug wrench on by force and finally got the nuts off. It did not improve their looks or usefulness a bit. After buying a new tire I went to the Ford dealer to get some usable lug nuts. They had nothing to offer, but did say their mechanics frequently complained that the lug nuts were faulty. Who would have ever imagined a manufacturer would ever screw up something as basic as lug nuts!! Next car or truck I buy will not have such nonsense or I won't buy it.
Aug 05, 2024
Aluminum covering on lug nuts becomes enlarged and have to be destroyed to remove them. Service tech at Ford dealership advised that he sees this problem several times per week.
Apr 16, 2024
The front driver side tire went flat. When a friend tried to remove lug nuts it was discovered that the lug wrench supplied by Ford with the vehicle would not fit over 3 of the 5 nuts. In a youtube video search from home I discovered that Ford had applied a metal coating to the outside of the lug nuts that in time tends to swell and prevents a socket from from going over the lug. Several videos showed people using hammers to force a larger socket over it and using an impact hammer to get the lugs off. Some took 20 mins. to remove. Since our lugs could not be removed on the roadside, a can of FIX-A-FLAT and a short drive on the near flat to a service station allowed them to get the car to a safe place for the night. The next day a call to the SERVICE MANAGER at Dick Hannah Ford dealership in Sandy Oregon (503-809-4711) was no help and he said he had never heard of this before. I called a local outlet (Estacada, Or.) (503-210-5111)of regional tire repair company Les Schawb Tires, and the manager there told me that he sees this all the time. He even completed my description of the problem with added details. He says that he has been recommending the complete removal of all lugs on any trucks or cars that come in with these lugs for years. He is saving all the lugs that come off of my car and has agreed to attest to the facts of what he finds and his past experience with this issue. I will keep the lugs if you would like to inspect them. No one was endangered in this incident. It happened on a dry day in the early afternoon just miles from a friends home. But I can't believe that no one has ever found themselves in a dangerous situation with a flat tire that can't be replaced with the very tool that FORD has provided in their vehicle for doing so. No warning has been issued, no recall initiated, and FORD keeps putting these useless tools in cars and trucks letting people believe that they will work. Several Youtube videos have documented the issue.
Mar 22, 2024
A hole the size of a quarter suddenly blew out of the inside section of the metal wheel while driving 65 mph, and the tire instantly went flat. There was nothing in or on the road, no prior accidents that may have damaged the wheel, and there was no existing or resulting damage to the tire. Thankfully the wheel was on the rear passenger side. If it had been on the front end, the driver most likely would have lost control of the vehicle, causing a serious accident at a high rate of speed.
Dec 20, 2023
+ 23 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
16 complaints
The contact's wife owned a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at approximately 45 MPH on the right lane and merging into the left lane, another vehicle violently crossed several lanes, causing the front of the vehicle to crash into the front driver's side of the other vehicle. The collision was mentioned to be a severe front-end impact, and the air bags did not deploy. The contact's wife sustained head, knee, stomach, chest, and neck injuries that required medical attention. The other vehicle's occupant received medical attention as well via the emergency room, but the injuries sustained were unknown. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a garage and then taken to the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 156,000.
Apr 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed air bag sensor. The contact was informed that the air bag sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the failure could be repaired, but it might not resolve the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 85,812.
Apr 25, 2024
I was driving at 50mph and a car pulled out infront of me. I had no option but crashing into them. The impact was in the front end of my vehicle causing enough damage to total the vehicle and the airbags did not deploy. The insurance aduster did look at the vehicle.
Aug 29, 2023
The contact stated that he was seated in the front passenger seat of a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle owner was driving thru a stop sign at approximately 5 mph, another vehicle crashed into the passenger side of the vehicle. The contact stated that none of the air bags were deployed. The contact stated that no warning lights were illuminated prior to the failure. The contact stated that the driver did not sustain any injuries but was suffering from mental issues from the crash. The passenger sustained injuries to his left toe and ankle as well as lower back which required medical assistance. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The contact stated that he was awaiting an official inspection from the insurance company. The contact stated that photos were sent to the insurance company and they deemed it a possible total loss. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact to call the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 104,577.
Aug 11, 2022
Check codes found B00C0, B00A0, U0455. Passenger seat occupant classification airbag sensor faulty. Affects both airbag passenger and drivers side airbag systems. Dealer service center recommends replacing failed airbag sensor harness system and system reset (approximate repair cost $2700).
May 29, 2022
+ 11 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
14 complaints
I have a sunroof and water leaks in and gets the headliner wet on both sides on the area vertically between windshield and front windows. I have had my front windshield replaced to ensure it wasn’t a windshield leak from a seal issue. It don’t fix the problem. I had my sunroof replaced in case it was that and it didn’t fix the issue either. I had the drain tubes for the sunroof flushed multiple times and it didn’t fix the issue either. This has been inspected/looked at by multiple auto places and it can not be located to the source of how water keeps getting in. Every time it rains it gets the headliner wet. There is no warning lamp indicating an issue. It is available for inspection should anyone else need to inspect it to try to find the source of why water gets in. It leaves water stains in my headliner. This is a safety issue if water gets into the car and the water can damage other components of the car. This issue has been ongoing for the last year approximately and I have brought the car in multiple times to address this but no one can locate the source so far.
Jun 10, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that there was a leak coming through the sunroof around the trim. The contact stated that the water leaked onto the doors and trunk, and there was mold and mold odor inside the vehicle. The contact and passenger were coughing while riding in the vehicle. The contact's spouse used silicone to close the gaps in the sunroof. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Apr 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, an abnormally loud sound was coming from the front undercarriage of the vehicle. The contact steered to the side of the road where it was observed that the undercarriage cover was detached. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the undercarriage cover needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.
Jul 19, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle's driver's side door had severe rust that was causing the skin of the vehicle to weld onto the outer panel of the door. In other areas of the vehicle, there was severe rust causing the paint to begin to bubble to the point that it was welded to the outer panel of the door. The dealer was not able to repair the rust on the body of the vehicle due to a lack of equipment. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 45,000.
Jul 29, 2022
I WAS DRIVING AND TURNED A CORNER ON A LOCAL ROAD AND MY REAR LEFT DOOR SWUNG OPEN. THERE HAD BEEN NO INDICATION IT WASN'T CLOSED. THEN, AFTER STOPPING, I TRIED TO CLOSE IT AND IT WOULDN'T LATCH--IT JUST BOUNCED BACK OPEN. THE FOLLOWING LINK IS VIDEO SOMEONE ELSE POSTED THAT SHOWS THE EXACT ISSUE I HAD: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=_EIOZPH8_XG IT'S A DIFFERENT MAKE AND MODEL FROM FORD, BUT THE ISSUE IS IDENTICAL TO WHAT I AM DEALING WITH NOW.
Jan 04, 2021
+ 9 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
10 complaints
I bought a 2016 Ford Escape SE 2 Days ago and just found out it had no back Brake Pads of any measurable thickness, and the Front Brake Pads were nearly as thin. Does not meet Oregon Used Car Sales Laws. Can you help me ? Call the Dealer so they fix them ? Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jan 26, 2026
DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY A VEHICLE PULLED IN FRONT OF ME STEPPED ON BRAKES AND PEDDLE WAS HARD, HAD NO BRAKES, GOT IT TOWED HOME AND FOUND THE PUMP DRIVE COUPLING PART # BB5Z-6K269-A, THE BOLT HEAD SHEARED OFF INSIDE THE cAM SHAFT HOUSING CAUSING THE VACUUM PUMP NOT TO WORK CAUSING NO BRAKES.
Jul 12, 2023
This has been an intermittent problem that Ford dealership cannot rectify unless it happens to them. Because I can't make it happen, and it has not happened close to a dealership, they cannot see it. The brakes seize up and won't stop the vehicle. I have no idea when it will happen - it happens with no warning. It has happened in the mountains in NC and on the highway, in a gas station, in parking lots and in my garage among other places. It is very frightening. Last night when it happened it lasted for about 45 minutes - the longest ever, and the brakes made a terrible blaring noise. When the brakes seize up, I have to drive very slowly and practically stand up on the brakes to bring the car to a halt. Thankfully it has not happened at high speed. This puts me, any passengers and other vehicles and their passengers and drivers at risk. The problem has occurred several times, but has not been confirmed by a dealer. By the way, the brakes have been squeaky since the first few months of ownership. At one point the dealership resurfaced the brake pads and rotors. It seems like the same issue the 2016 Expedition was recalled for. I am scared that this will result in a terrible wreck. The first occurrence was on April 1, 2019. The most recent was last night, 10/18/2022. Today, Ford Customer Service gave me a case number of CAS39180084
Oct 19, 2022
abs, hill assist, in and out of smart 4WD, does not brake correctly
May 16, 2022
TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR A RECALL FIX ON 4-8-2021 AT KELLER MOTORS HANFORD CA DROVE THE FOLLOWING DAY TO A GAS STATION WENT TO ENTER A GAS PUMP AND LOSS OF BREAKS AT A LOW SPEED ALMOST BUMPING INTO A CAR HAD TO USE MY EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP MY TRUCK.
Apr 09, 2021
+ 5 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
10 complaints
The fuel injector and the one of the cylinders has gone bad and has been available for inspection. My safety has been put to rest due to engine overheating. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer police or any insurance representative. The check engine light did appear on November 1, 2025. The car started overheating on November 4, 2025. According to other owners that I have spoken to, this is a constant problem with this make and model. I believe it is a manufacturer defect since so many other owners are experiencing the same issue.
Nov 04, 2025
After 104,000 miles Experienced Transmission issues. Been told this happens to several Ford Escapes' after 100k miles.
Oct 31, 2025
65,000 miles, coolant intrusion into #1 cylinder confirmed by Ford service center. First signs were Check Engine Light, rough idle. Replaced all spark plugs and coils. Check engine light returned the following day with loss of coolant in tank. Engine runs rough and overheats with coolant loss and continued intrusion into engine, endangering occupants
Oct 17, 2024
The car was running fine, but check engine light came on. Took it to the dealer to have it checked out. They told me there is coolant intrusion into engine cylinder 2 (I think number 2) and the engine needs to be replaced. Apparently this is a known issue that can lead to overheating, “catastrophic” engine failures and potential engine fires. They quoted me roughly ten thousand dollars to have it replaced. I told them it was still running fine. They said I could maybe keep driving it but there is no way to know what will happen and when but it needs to be replaced. I am only now seeing page after page of consumer complaints regarding the same issue.
Sep 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was shuddering and chugging significantly. Additionally, the transmission was slipping between gears. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the engine was replaced. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 70-75 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle jerked and lunged forward. The contact also stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond while the engine was revving. The contact stated that he continuously depressed the accelerator pedal until the vehicle responded. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was towed to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Jun 05, 2024
+ 5 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
2016 escape rear camera displays upside down. Ford motor just recalled over a million of their vehicles due to safety hazard, Mine is not listed in recall but has exact same safety issue. Contacted FMC and said it's not on the recall list. I ask them to repair just like the others that are being recalled. We bought this new in 2016. They refused although it is an identified safety issue. Thanks [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Sep 29, 2025
Back up camera goes blank or displays upside down. Tail lights goes out frequently but the dealer says it's okay.
Sep 18, 2025
I saw a recall for newer years of Ford products where the camera wasn't working and it is a safety hazard. My 2016 Escape rear camera has not been working properly for many years. It appears to me that it is a software problem because the camera will be upside-down OR roll upside down. I updated the firmware on my car, but it still doesn't work. There are Youtube videos out there, because it is a common problem with the Escape. [XXX] Please add the 2016 Escapes to your current recall. Here is a link to the recall for the newer Ford Products.[XXX] I have attached recent still pics of my car-cam upside down and I tried to attached a (short )14 second video of it rolling upside down, but your website does not allow videos to be uploaded? So I made the video into a .gif and uploaded it so you could see the rolling camera that happened today. The rolling camera problems does happen a lot, but not as much as the upside down feed. As you can see from the photographs, the directional lines that are supposed to show the direction a driver is backing up, are NOT present either. A person backing up, using the upside down feed, will NOT see the direction they are backing up. The attached photos were all taken within the last couple days, you can check the date and time they were taken on each photo. Please contact me if you want me to send you the original video that I took today. Please help me with this problem. I am not the sole person to have this problem with older Ford products. Please enlarge the recall to older vehicles, this problem has been going on a long time. I appears to be a software problem that needs to be addressed. Having the back up camera feed be upside down or rolling so that nothing is visible in the camera, is a danger to others standing behind the car INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jun 03, 2025
Backup camera intermittently stops working. Some days, it works fine. Other days, whenever shift to reverse, the screen is either black or blue with the message that the camera is not available. It will sometimes go to the black/blue screen while I am reversing into/ out of my driveway, parking spot, etc. Shifting to park or neutral and then to reverse doesn't correct the problem. It started out as an occasional problem, but now happens multiple times a day. This is an extremely unsafe situation. If someone/something is behind me when I am reversing, it is likely that I would not have enough time to react to prevent an injury or worse.So many other Ford vehicles have a recall for backup camera issues, why is the Escape not included?
Apr 30, 2025
The rear view backup camera is faulty and doesn't always work. Sometimes it comes on, but most of the time it just doesn't turn on. There is no specific set of circumstances that dictates if it will work or not.
Oct 03, 2023
+ 3 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
7 complaints
My 2016 Ford escape cannot accelerate even I pressed the pedal. It just has 74000 miles but showing transmission issues. It's so dangerous and threaten my life and others.
Dec 30, 2025
See attached document for complaint
Apr 15, 2024
DRIVING INTO PARKING LOT TO PARK AND THE CAR ACCELERATED JUMP 2 CURBS AND HIT A PARKED VEHICLE. I WOULD HAVE TO HAVE FLOORED THE PEDAL FOR THAT TO HAPPEN. I THINK SOMETHING MALFUNCTIONED. I DID SEE ANOTHER SIMILAR REPORT DATED OCTOBER OF 2017 OF THE SAME THING HAPPENING AND FORD HAD A RECENT PAST OF ACCELERATION PROBLEMS. SO I'M WONDERING IF IT IS A MALFUNCTION OF THE CAR
Jan 07, 2018
CAR WENT TO VERY SLOW SPEED FROM 45 TO ABOUT 2 MPH IN A FEW SECONDS. ON SIDE OF ROAD ENGINE WOULD NOT SPEED UP ALL. TURNED ENGINE OFF/ON TWICE NO HELP. TURNED ENGINE OFF THIRD TIME. CAR STARTED OK THIRD TIME AND WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME OK. I READ ERROR CODE OUT. ITS P2111 THIS ERROR IS A COMMON ERROR ON CERTAIN FORDS FROM 2009 ON. THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED SOON! WHEN YOUR ENGINE QUITS WITH THIS ERROR YOU HAVE VERY POOR POWER STEERING CONTROL,ETC. PLEASE RESEARCH THIS PROBLEM. CAR WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THIS EVENT OCCURRED.
Jun 18, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK AT 2 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,500.
Nov 17, 2016
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 complaints
Coolant leak into cylinder head. Upon start up a cloud of white smoke came from the exhaust.
Sep 15, 2025
Service engine warning came on/ tester indicated low pressure fuel system. On 02282025 the lower pressure fuel senor(Part#BU5Z*9F972*B was replaced at Landers Ford/Collierville, TN. On [XXX] Service engine warning came on. I contacted the dealership, and was advised to bring it in to get checked. Tester indicated that cylinder #4 was not working. So part# BM5Z*12029B (NS COIL A) and Part# CYFS*13Y*RCX(100 SPARK) were both ordered and replaced. When I went to pickup Mr car on [XXX], it was missing very bad. I was told that Anti-freeze was shooting into the motor, and that the motor was not repairable, and that I could replace it or trade my car in. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mar 30, 2025
While I was driving, suddenly check engine light pop up. After investigating and troubleshooting by mechanic it shows need to replace Evap canister purge valve. Vehicle has just 68000 miles and this component should not be failed this early in life cycle.
Mar 16, 2025
Ford Escape is experiencing multiple symptoms: * Fuel smell in the cabin * Sluggish acceleration * Hard start (cranks several seconds without ignition) after refueling * (RARE) Engine stall when coming to a stop.
Oct 07, 2024
The following all occurred in just the past year. The following is a report from this May 2024: Performed Cooling System Pressure Test, Discovered Coolant to Be Leaking From Behind Engine Next to Firewall, Continued Diagnosis and Performed Physical Inspection Removing Wiper Cowl to Get a Better View of Behind the Engine, Once Wiper Cowl Was Removed Discovered Rear Heater Hose to Be Leaking Coolant Causing Customers Concern. Recommend Replace Heater Hose and Perform Cooling System Service During the Courtesy Inspection Aaron Noted: ***Coolant Fluid Very Low Due to Coolant Leak, Recommend Perform Cooling System Service with Hose Replacement ***Vehicle is Equipped With Timing Belt, Check Customers Records For Previous Replacement - The inital issues was the purge valve stuck open, which lead to a misfire code, so they mechanic had a replacement of purge valve chassy and replace spark plugs. - 2 weeks following this event, we were told the engine would need to be replaced due to an internal coolant leakage that resulted from a broken gasket. The vehicle does not even have 200,000 miles.
Aug 25, 2024
+ 2 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY/WIPER
7 complaints
Faulty Switch. Windshield wipers don't work when I try to turn them on. While driving, they will randomly turn on by themselves and will not cut off until the vehicle is turned off. Waiting for a mechanic to get the part.
Jul 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front driver’s and passenger’s side windshield wipers failed to operate as intended while activated. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the body control module needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted by the independent mechanic, and the parts for the repairs were ordered. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.
Dec 03, 2024
SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE DESIGN OF THE WINDSHIELD. I JUST REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD ON JULY 19, 2019, AND HAVE A CRACKED WINDSHIELD AGAIN TODAY, AUGUST 12, 2019. IN MY 30 YEARS OF DRIVING, I'VE NEVER HAD TO REPLACE A WINDSHIELD FOR CRACKING AND NOW I'VE DONE IT TWICE IN LESS THAN A MONTH.
Aug 12, 2019
WINDSHIELD WIPERS COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING ON JUNE 20, 2019. CONFIRMED IT WAS NOT A FUSE. IT WAS SUMMER WHILE I WAS AWAY ON VACATION WHEN THIS HAPPENED WHICH IS AN 8 HR DRIVE FROM HOME. WIPERS SPONTANEOUSLY STARTED WORKING LIKE NORMAL AFTER TWO DAYS NOT WORKING. THAT SAME DAY ON JUNE 22, 2019 DURING DRIVE IN 95 DEGREE HEAT ON HIGHWAY IN STAND STILL TRAFFIC ON 8 HOUR DRIVE HOME, WIPERS STARTED TURNING ON AT VARIABLE SPEEDS ON THEIR OWN AND COULD NOT BE SHUT OFF, CHANGED SPEEDS, OR AFFECTED BY ANYTHING WITH THE WIPER SWITCH. THE WIPERS ARE NOT AUTOMATIC OR RAIN SENSING AND IT WAS A CLEAR DAY. WIPERS DID NOT TURN OFF UNTIL TRAFFIC CLEARED, THE CAR WAS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND PRESUMABLY COULD BE COOLED BY THE CAR MOVING. A SLIGHT MELTING SMELL WAS NOTED DURING SPONTANEOUS TURNING ON OF WIPERS. TOOK IT TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY REPLACED THE BATTERY CONTROL MODULE AS THE CONNECTION WAS BAD AND AFFECTING THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. COST ME $433.47 IN PARTS AND LABOR.
Jun 30, 2019
****NOTE - VIN FOR A TOYOTA RAV4 2010, NOT A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. NEED MORE INFORMATION **** IN LIGHT RAIN, THE WIPERS JAM ON THE WINDSHIELD. AT TIMES, DIRECTLY IN YOUR VIEW. THIS OCCURS FREQUENTLY. IT OCCURS WHEN MOVING AND STATIONARY.
Aug 13, 2018
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
6 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine. The dealer recommended that the engine be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
May 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. In addition, the contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that a mobile mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with a low-pressure fuel rail failure. The contact was informed that the low-pressure fuel rail needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with turbocharger failure. The contact was informed that the turbocharger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
Jan 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine. The engine overheated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the flex plate and Oxygen sensors had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 113,918.
Dec 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that heavy white smoke was coming from the exhaust pipe at start-up. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The diagnostic test determined that coolant had leaked into an engine cylinder and that metal shavings were found in the oil and air intake tube. The vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Jun 24, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving 60–65 MPH, coolant was leaking into the engine. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that an engine replacement was needed. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Jun 03, 2024
+ 1 more complaint for this component
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
6 complaints
On November 14th, 2023, a red alert appeared on the dash that indicated an engine temperature warning indicating that there was a high temperature warning and that I should find a safe place to pull over and immediately stop the vehicle. The temperature indicator on the dash showed the needle move instantly into the red/high area and then drop down. This happened twice, back-to-back. I checked the coolant and it was below the minimum level indicator as shown on the reservoir. A day later, the service engine light illuminated. I took the vehicle to Advanced Auto and asked to pull the service code and was told there were two, P0303 and P0304 which indicated a cylinder three misfire and cylinder four misfire. I noted that the coolant was also low once again despite seeing no fluid on the ground after allowing the vehicle to run. Bill Collins Ford inspected the misfires and coolant and found the issue to be related to a flaw in the engine design which allows coolant to leak into the cylinders. I was told this could have allowed the vehicle to overheat and catch on fire as well as causing the engine to lock up while in operation. Bill Collins Ford provided an estimate of $13,000 to repair the vehicle stating it required a new engine. I purchased this vehicle used from CarMax on August 2, 2023 and have put less than 3,000 miles on it before experiencing this issue.
Nov 27, 2023
Stalling in the middle of highway twice
Sep 17, 2023
Defect in the coolant system which caused leaking into my cylinders
Apr 14, 2023
THE CAR SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. IT HAS DONE THIS AT HIGHWAY SPEED AND SLOWER. CANNOT PULL OUT INTO TRAFFIC FOR FEAR OF THE ENGINE WILL SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING.
Apr 29, 2019
DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY CAR JUST SHUTS DOWN WITH ENGINE FAULT CAR STOPPED RESPONDING MAKING IT A REAL SAFETY ISSUE. I SEE THIS HAS A CLOSED RECALL ALREADY BUT I DON'T THINK THEY HAVE INCLUDED ALL THE CARS AFFECTED.
Jun 27, 2018
+ 1 more complaint for this component
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
6 complaints
I'M NOT SURE BUT I FEEL LIKE THERE MIGHT BE AN ISSUE WITH MY FORD ESCAPE TRANSMISSION. I BOUGHT THE CAR IN NOT EVEN 2 YEARS AGO AND NOW I'M BEING TOLD THAT I EITHER NEED NEW TRANSMISSION OR TO HAVE MINE REBUILT AND THIS DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT'.HOW IS THAT A CAR THAT IS BARLEY 3 YEARS OLD, AND BOUGHT BRAND NEW NEEDS A WHOLE NEW TRANSMISSION. I AM CONCERN BECAUSE I HAVE A CHILD AND I AM CURRENTLY PREGNANT AND MY CAR IS SLIPPING IN OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING ON THE STREETS OF TOLEDO. I AM ON FIX INCOME THIS WHY I BOUGHT WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A RELIABLE NEW CAR, I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO CORRECT FORD'S MISTAKE. I HOPE THIS MATER CAN BE LOOKED INTO ANY HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
May 02, 2019
I'M NOT SURE BUT I FEEL LIKE THERE MIGHT BE AN ISSUE WITH MY FORD ESCAPE TRANSMISSION. I BOUGHT THE CAR IN NOT EVEN 2 YEARS AGO AND NOW I'M BEING TOLD THAT I EITHER NEED NEW TRANSMISSION OR TO HAVE MINE REBUILT AND THIS DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT'.HOW IS THAT A CAR THAT IS BARLEY 3 YEARS OLD, AND BOUGHT BRAND NEW NEEDS A WHOLE NEW TRANSMISSION. I AM CONCERN BECAUSE I HAVE A CHILD AND I AM CURRENTLY PREGNANT AND MY CAR IS SLIPPING IN OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING ON THE STREETS OF TOLEDO. I AM ON FIX INCOME THIS WHY I BOUGHT WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A RELIABLE NEW CAR, I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO CORRECT FORD'S MISTAKE. I HOPE THIS MATER CAN BE LOOKED INTO ANY HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
May 02, 2019
I'M NOT SURE BUT I FEEL LIKE THERE MIGHT BE AN ISSUE WITH MY FORD ESCAPE TRANSMISSION. I BOUGHT THE CAR IN NOT EVEN 2 YEARS AGO AND NOW I'M BEING TOLD THAT I EITHER NEED NEW TRANSMISSION OR TO HAVE MINE REBUILT AND THIS DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT'.HOW IS THAT A CAR THAT IS BARLEY 3 YEARS OLD, AND BOUGHT BRAND NEW NEEDS A WHOLE NEW TRANSMISSION. I AM CONCERN BECAUSE I HAVE A CHILD AND I AM CURRENTLY PREGNANT AND MY CAR IS SLIPPING IN OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING. I AM ON FIX INCOME THIS WHY I BOUGHT WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A RELIABLE NEW CAR, I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO CORRECT FORD'S MISTAKE. I HOPE THIS MATER CAN BE LOOKED INTO ANY HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. I DO NOT FEEL LIKE SOME SHOULD HAVE TO DIE BEFORE THIS ISSUE IS ADDRESSED AND CORRECTED.
May 02, 2019
I'M NOT SURE BUT I FEEL LIKE THERE MIGHT BE AN ISSUE WITH MY FORD ESCAPE TRANSMISSION. I BOUGHT THE CAR IN NOT EVEN 2 YEARS AGO AND NOW I'M BEING TOLD THAT I EITHER NEED NEW TRANSMISSION OR TO HAVE MINE REBUILT AND THIS DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT'.HOW IS THAT A CAR THAT IS BARLEY 3 YEARS OLD, AND BOUGHT BRAND NEW NEEDS A WHOLE NEW TRANSMISSION. I AM CONCERN BECAUSE I HAVE A CHILD AND I AM CURRENTLY PREGNANT AND MY CAR IS SLIPPING IN OUT OF GEAR WHILE DRIVING. I AM ON FIX INCOME THIS WHY I BOUGHT WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A RELIABLE NEW CAR, I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO CORRECT FORD'S MISTAKE. I HOPE THIS MATER CAN BE LOOKED INTO ANY HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. I DO NOT FEEL LIKE SOME SHOULD HAVE TO DIE BEFORE THIS ISSUE IS ADDRESSED AND CORRECTED.
May 02, 2019
SAFETY HAZARD AND SERIOUS LIFE THREATENING SITUATION EXISTS WHEN THIS PROBLEM OCCURS ON THE HIGHWAY AND ESPECIALLY IN FRONT OF A SEMI TRACTOR TRAILER TRUCK DOING THE SPEED LIMIT. NUMEROUS TIMES, (12 TIMES BETWEEN 14,000 AND 15,363 MILES) THE 2016 FORD ESCAPE HAS HAD COMPLETE POWER LOSS DURING ACCELERATION CAUSING VEHICLE TO ABRUPTLY BEGIN SHAKING, LOSE POWER, LOSE STEERING, LOSE BRAKING AND IMMEDIATELY SHUDDER TO A STOP. SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, MESSAGE READS: ENGINE FAULT SERVICE NOW. (SEE ATTACHED PHOTO) ENGINE REMAINS RUNNING. IF ONE TRIES TO CONTINUE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STUMBLE AND WON'T SHIFT FROM LOW GEAR WITHOUT A VERY HARD TORQUING SOUND. THIS FORD ESCAPE BROKE DOWN IN FRONT OF A FORD DEALER AND THE CODE READ BY THIS DEALERS COMPUTER IS P0322-PCM. ACCORDING TO AN INTERNET SEARCH THE P0322 CODE DEFINITION: IF THE PCM (POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE) DETECTS AN ERRATIC, INTERRUPTED, OR OTHERWISE UNEXPECTED INPUT SIGNAL FROM THE DISTRIBUTOR OR THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR, IT WILL STORE THE P0322 CODE, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL BE TURNED ON. ON THIS VEHICLE THE CODE IS ONLY ACTIVE WHEN THE FAULT OCCURS, AND THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. THE CODES DO NOT STORE IN MEMORY. IGNITION CAN BE SHUT OFF, THE WARNING MESSAGE DISAPPEARS AND MANY TIMES THE CAR IS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN AGAIN FOR MILES BEFORE REOCCURRING. THE LEASING DEALER STATES THEY HAVE A PROCESS TO FOLLOW IN ORDER TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THEY HAVE TO REPLICATE THE PROBLEM OR THEY DO NOTHING. USING MY PRINTOUT FROM ANOTHER DEALER WITH THE CODE IS MEANINGLESS TO THEM, EVEN THOUGH THEY KNOW THE SOURCE OF THE PROBLEM AND THAT THE CONDITION IS LIFE THREATENING. THEY SAY THAT IF I FEEL THE CONDITION IS LIFE THREATENING THEN DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR. A FORMAL CASE HAS BEEN OPENED WITH FORD CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE, HOWEVER THEY ONLY NOTIFY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM, WHICH HE ALREADY KNOWS.
Sep 01, 2017
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 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 contact stated that while in reverse, the back-over prevention camera failed to display the image behind the vehicle. The failure became more persistent over time and caused additional electrical failures. The contact was unable to connect devices to the vehicle, and the radio failed to operate as needed. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part for the recall repair was not available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.
Nov 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 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 rearview camera displayed a distorted image while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the alarm activated independently. The alarm was unintentionally activated during the day or night. Most recently, while the front driver’s side door was opened or closed, the alarm activated until the key was inserted into the ignition. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nov 14, 2025
Camera keeps cutting out even in the middle of backing up
Sep 14, 2025
When I put the car in reverse the back up camera glitches. It freezes, flips upside down, turns black, sometimes all of those things. The beeping sound does not warn when objects are near when this is happening. It happens about 95% of the time. The camera is only functional about 5% of the time. Due to this issue I have been in several near accidents
Jul 11, 2025
We bought this car used. Every since purchase the rear camera has failed off and on. The radio as well as display seems to do as it wants. I try not to depend on camera but the other issues bother me. Seems to be random things happen that all seem to tie back to the darn display or the SYNC3 part of it. I see a TSB 21-2175 that seems to hit on it. I also see the recall on other Escapes. Mine is a 2016. Really bothers me. I am afraid it is going to cause engine to stop in traffic. Or what if a child walks behind me? You only allow me to enter one date. This is random and happens a lot. It is getting worse and more frequent. First did it at 40,000 now has 100,000 and still doing it. Have asked folks and got nowhere.
Jun 27, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
5 complaints
Rear camera image is distorted in a manner probably similar to 25V-270 and 25V-272. This is one of the few vehicles where a flipping of the image or no display occurs on reverse.
Sep 15, 2025
When I put my Escape in Reverse, sometimes the rear view camera works and sometimes it doesnt
Jun 03, 2025
While in reverse gear, during operation rear view camera stopped working and shows error that back up Camera is not available. Screen shows blue screen. It is very dangerous as it can cause an accident.
May 30, 2025
Rear view camera displayed view upside down or blurry lines flashing on the screen. Entire camera assembly replaced due to failure.
Apr 12, 2024
Back Over Prevention ( backup camera), started acting up in Feb 2023, shows black screen, flips image, does not come on, (radio is displayed) when it does come on its granny and has black vertical lines, warning beeps stop working when this happens or don't sound off untill your on top of the person or object behing you. Contacted 2 Ford dealerships and they tell me other Escapes are on recall just not my year and no replacement camera is available.
Sep 21, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
5 complaints
Eco boost failure recommended replacement referred to a Ford dealership for service 1500.00 to 2000.00 for replacement
Jun 28, 2025
At 116k miles the Turbo had to be replaced, immediately following by the transmission failed and needs to be fully replaced.
Aug 21, 2024
My coolant leaked into the cylinders of my engine causing a complete engine failure. When this occurred, there was no warning lights, indicators or check engine notices to notify me that there was a problem with my engine. I was driving down the street & white smoke started billowing out of the back of my car. I was able to make it home but had to have it towed to the dealership. This is a known issue with Ford, with a current lawsuit pending, due to the design of the engine. I have been advised that there are technical bulletins distributed within Ford and the dealer acknowledged there was nothing I could have done to prevent this from happening. My engine was already replaced due to the same defect when it had 34,000 miles on it. This was covered under warranty and the engine was replaced at a Ford dealership. The first time this happened, I was traveling on the freeway and my lights and power completely shut down while I was driving at night and my engine almost started on fire. I also had no warning lights, overheating or check engine notices when that happened. It now has 94,500 miles. This means I have needed 2 engine replacements for the same defect in less than 100,000 miles. The Price Ford dealership in Turlock, CA has quoted me $10,600 to replace the engine, which I am responsible to pay, and advised me to call corporate when I told them of the lawsuit. Ford's Corporate Office advised me that there isn't anything they can do because there isn't a recall issued yet, even though this a known documented issue of their defected engine design.
Aug 25, 2022
HEAD GASKET WHITE SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST KEEP LOSING ANTI FREEZE. *TR
Jul 02, 2020
I BELIEVE THE SAME ISSUE WITH PREVIOUS MODELS OF FORD ESCAPES AND OTHER MODELS WITH THE RECALL BASED ON THE COOLANT LEAKING INTO THE ENGINE AND CAUSING BURNING AND FIRES IS STILL A RELEVANT ISSUE IN MODELS FURTHER. I BOUGHT MY 2016 FORD ESCAPE A YEAR AGO FROM CARMAX WITH 61K MILES. WITHIN ONE MONTH AND CONSTANT SERVICE THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP BURNING COOLANT. NO LEAKS OR ANYTHING I PAID TO HAVE IT CHECKED BY THREE DIFFERENT MECHANICS BECAUSE ALL OF THEM TOLD ME THERE HAD TO BE A LEAK. CARMAX STATES THAT THIS IS NOT SOMETHING THEY CAN NOT COVER. BUT IT SEEMS TO NOT BE ANY PERSON AT FAULT. THERE ARE NO LEAKS I'VE HAD THE CAR INSPECTED. IT'S STILL RUNS A YEAR LATER, BUT CATCHES ON FIRE IF LEFT RUNNING IN PARK OR IDLE FOR MORE THAN FIVE MINUTES. SMOKES A TON FIRST THEN SOMETHING IGNITES. EVERY TIME YOU START IT THOUGH THERE'S A CLOUD OF THICK WHITE SMOKE WHICH EVENTUALLY CLEARS WHILE I'M DRIVING. DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO REPAIR THIS SO I HAVE TO KEEP DRIVING IT LIKE THIS. FORD HAS HAD THIS ISSUE ALREADY IN THE PREVIOUS MODELS. I'VE ATTACHED THE CUTOUT FROM THE PRIOR RECALL ON PREVIOUS MODELS. I APPRECIATE AND THANKYOU FOR YOUR TIME. I'VE ALWAYS WANTED TO BE APART OF HELPING THE BIGGER PICTURE.
Jun 07, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
5 complaints
While diving the vehicle hesitates. I have had it checked and it seems that the turbo is bad. After speaking to others this seems to be an issue with this vehicle. With the electrical issues, my back up camera, radio, speakers, navigation all do not work. Also while driving my flashers will randomly flash and my speedometer as well as my RPM gage will go crazy. While driving down the road my speakers blared white noise so loud that it almost caused me to wreck because it scared me so badly. I had to have the fuse taken it in order to get it to stop.
Mar 30, 2025
Cooling fan failure.. resulting in $1300 in repairs not needed and is now in shop for more money… to reapir
Jun 05, 2021
WHEN PURCHASE 2016 FORD ESCAPE WITHIN A MONTH SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON YOU CAN SMELL COOLANT SOMETINES SMOKE SMELL TOOK VEHICLE IN THEY TOLD IT WAS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT, FROM 2016 TO 2021 I HAD TO PURCHASE COOLANT OVER TEN TIMES IT WAS ALWAYS LOW THE SMELL CONTINUE TOO THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS COMES ON STAYS ON HOWEVER TOOK IT IN THREE TIMES WITH THE SAME ANSWER NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT IS FINE. I WROTE LETTERS TO FORD CUSTOMER RELATIONS REPORTING ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL CONCERNS THAT NEEDS REPAIRING.-REPORTING MY EYES AND BREATHING WAS AFFECTED WHEN INSIDE THE FORD ESCAPE-SOMETIMES THE ENGINE WOULD TURN OFF THERE WAS ALSO AN ODOR OF SMOKE AND COOLANT THESE ISSUES CONTINUE DAILY. EVIDENTLY FORD DIDN'T CARE BUT IT WAS REPORTED TO THEM. I ALSO WROTE TO YOUR DEPARTMENT HOWEVER I HAVE NOT HEARD BACK THEREFORE I AM DOING THIS ONLINE COMPLAINT, PLEASE NOTE I WANT TO SEND PHOTOS HOWEVER IT WOULD NOT LET ME DOWNLOAD CAN YOU SEND ME YOUR EMAIL TO SEND THIEM TO YOU IITS VERY IMPORTANT EVIDENCE THANK YOU. I
Jan 29, 2021
I WAS TRAVELING 60 MPH WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY, I LOST THE ABILITY TO ACCELERATE AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WITH AN ERROR MESSAGE OF "ENGINE FAULT". ONCE I MADE IT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, THE ENGINE IDLED DOWN TO 400 AND SHUT OFF. I TRIED TO CRANK IT UP AGAIN AND THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY STARTED JUMPING VIOLENTLY. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WAS RECALL 16B32.
Sep 19, 2016
WAS DRIVING AND VEHICLE BEGAN SHUDDERING VIOLENTLY AND SERVICE ENGINE NOW CAME ON AND VEHICLE ENGINE DIED. THANK GOODNESS I WAS NOT ON THE HIGHWAY YET AND FOUR PEOPLE HELPED TO PUSH ME OUT OF THE WAY.
Sep 15, 2016
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the transmission was slipping. The contact stated that the RPM increased, and the vehicle decelerated. The vehicle was shifted into neutral and pushed out of the roadway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the third gear had an incorrect ratio. The fluid condition was filled with material, and an overhaul of the transmission was recommended. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Feb 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at 25 MPH and coming to a stop at the stop light, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle accelerated unintendedly and crashed into the rear end of another occupied vehicle. The air bags deployed. The contact sustained soreness on the neck and shoulders but did not seek medical assistance. The passenger of the other vehicle sustained injuries but did not seek medical assistance. A police report was filed. The contact was towed to a tow lot. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they did not have the parts for recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 ( Power Train). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 96,000. The consumer stated the repairs were performed on 1/5/22.
Aug 16, 2022
We bought a 2016 Ford Escape on 25 June 2021, from Phil Long Ford in Motor City, Colorado Springs, CO. for approx. $21,000. Mileage was 62,783k. In Aug and Sept 2021, we brought the car back to Phil Long and told them there was a transmission issue that intermittently occurred on highway speeds. When passing there was an extremely rough shift that felt like a car ran into the back of us. This created a safety issue when driving. Phil Long reluctantly test drove the car and said they couldn’t do anything as they didn’t experience the extremely rough shift. This rough shift continued to happen about once every couple of weeks. We brought the car to Transmission Clinic in CO Springs and they confirmed that we needed a new transmission. On 02 June 2022, we paid $4,992 and got the transmission replaced. Transmission Clinic stated they are seeing many issues with Ford transmissions on Ford cars with low mileage. I contend that Phil Long Ford knew this info and should have been willing to help us in Aug/ Sept 2021. I am requesting that Phil Long Ford reimburse us in full or part for the cost of this recent transmission replacement. I believe Ford Motor Company should issue a recall for these poor transmissions.
Jun 03, 2022
WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC THE CAR LUNGES FORWARD AND JERKS IN TRAFFIC AND LOSSES POWER. NO TO LITTLE MOVEMENT WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING. ALSO YOU CAN NOT ACCELERATE THAT IS A NON FACTOR AND YOU ARE IN THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC WITHOUT WARNING! MY CAR NEVER GAVE ME ANY SIGNS OF A BAD TRANSMISSION UNTIL OUT THE BLUE ONE DAY AND A TRANSMISSION VAULT LIGHT CAME ON MY DASH! MY FAMILY AND I WAS VISITING MY SON AT HIS COLLEGE TOWN OF BEVERCREEK OHIO WERE HE ATTENDED WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY AND THIS HAPPENED ON THE WEEKEND. I WAITED UNTIL THE WEEKDAY TO CALL CUSTOMER SERVICE AND FORD GAVE ME A CASE #CAS27510020. MY SON DROPPED IT OFF AND MADE THE APPOINTMENT AND RENTED A CAR AND DROVE BACK TO CHICAGO. THE CAR IS AT GERMAINE FORD AND THEY CALLED HIM BACK AND SAID $4 THOUSAND OVERHAUL OR $8 THOUSAND FOR REPLACEMENT AND I STILL OWE A YEAR OR 2 YEARS WORTH OF PAYMENTS TOTALLY UNFAIR. A CAR SHOULD LAST LONGER THAN 85,000 MILES OFF HIGHWAY AND NORMAL DRIVING! P.S FORD HAS BEEN SUED FOR THERE POWER SHIFT TRANSMISSION FOR BAD TORQUE CONVERTERS , WHO'S TO SAY THEY ARE NOT USING THOSE SAME TORQUE CONVETERS IN THEIR 6SPEED AUTOMATIC SELECT SHIFT TRANSMISSIONS.
Sep 03, 2020
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, THE CAR SHUTTERED AND FLASHED WARNING LIGHTS, THE POWER WAS DECREASED, THEN SHUTTERED AGAIN AFTER I PULLED OVER AND TURNED IT OFF
Jun 17, 2016
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determine that the canister purge valve was stuck in the open position. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 80,000.
Nov 27, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that after parking in the vehicle, the odor of fuel was present inside the garage. Upon inspection, the contact discovered fuel leaking from under the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the fuel lines had rusted and failed causing a fuel leak. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 23,000.
Nov 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who retrieved a code indicating a failure of the fuel separator sensor. Further investigation determined that the sensor was stuck in the open position, potentially exposing the vehicle occupants to toxic fumes. The contact stated that the diagnosis was confirmed by a second independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 32,825.
May 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, she smelled an abnormally strong gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed but no failures were found. The contact's son used the OBD reader and Ford computer system to diagnose that the fuel line originating from the engine to the fuel tank appeared to be clogged. The contact's son diagnosed that the purge valve Evap System had failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed by the dealer, and it would then be determined whether they could assist with the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000.
Dec 12, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the transmission was previously replaced. The contact stated that after refueling, the vehicle was unable to restart immediately. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal while turning on the vehicle to correct the failure. Additionally, the vehicle made abnormal sounds and would shake and then stall while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the canister purge valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Nov 14, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaints
Rear camera screen will turn black and not work for days at a time, or will sometimes display for a second and then as I’m backing up, it’ll turn black. Then for a day it’ll work just fine, then the next day be back to not working again out of the blue. I have been in no accidents. It once even displayed my view upside down. Yes it’s available for inspection upon request. I would say people are very at risk because I can’t trust it to work and I might hit someone if the screen goes black on me while I’m backing up. I haven’t brought it to a dealership or others because of cost and time. This has been going on for years, I’m not sure when it first started… maybe around the 80,000 mile marker?
Sep 22, 2025
Rear view camera is not working properly. Will either flicker on & off while reversing, display upside down, or just show a black screen. This has been going on for a while. There seems to be a recall for this malfunction for several Ford models, however not one for my model.
Sep 11, 2025
The rear backup camera intermittently cuts in and out. The touch screen also intermittently turns black and is unresponsive. After it died, I replaced the infotainment touchscreen computer. The rear backup camera is still intermittent and unreliable. Other owners have complained online about poor seals in the rear wiper assembly, which leads to leaks that corrode the camera's wiring harness and cause an intermittent video signal. I feel this is a known problem that Ford is choosing to ignore and is dangerous when the backup camera cuts out while backing up.
Nov 21, 2024
Backup camera fails intermittently and unpredictability. Often just a blank blue screen appears, sometimes an error message over a video image appears, and other times the camera works at first but fails after a few seconds. It can work one minute, and the next time the car is shifted into reverse (such as when parallel parking) it may not work (or vice-versa). OBDII fault codes indicate a possible communications/electrical issue. Online reports reveal that there are scores of other owners of model year 2014-2019 Ford Escapes with the same or similar issues with their back-up cameras (one mentioned having theirs replaced at least _4 times_ while the car was still in its warranty period). No other warning lamps are available. The alert text that (only sometimes) appears on the display screen when the camera fails is non-specific (e.g. “Camera not available.”). This has been occurring for at least the last 3 or 4 years. For all intents and purposes, since this fault is so unpredictable, I can no longer consider this car to possess a back-up camera. Safety: while I have never had a serious, another driver could easily fail to see and possibly collide with property or individuals while reversing (especially when the camera image disappears in the middle of an in-progress reversing operation). I am more than happy to make my vehicle available for inspection upon request. Ford has issued a recall for the seemingly identical issue for 2020 model year vehicles, but not for my 2016 Ford Escape (nor, to my knowledge, many other model years using an identical camera and display design).
Nov 15, 2024
SUSPENSION
4 complaints
I paid to repair transmission. It kept dropping into gears really hard. It rolled backwards while in drive, if I took my foot off of brake. A year later, I'm going through it again The get engine checked light came on and it just stopped moving.
Nov 10, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TURN LEFT, THE VEHICLE DRIFTED RIGHT MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING OIL. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE TOM MASANO FORD LINCOLN LOCATED AT (1600 LANCASTER AVE, READING PA 19607) WHO CONFIRMED THE OIL LEAK AND THAT THE RIGHT REAR SHOCK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000.
Mar 16, 2020
I'M HEARING A NOISE IN THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK EVERY TIME I HIT A BUMP WHEN THE STEERING ALL THE WAY TO LOCK RIGHT OR LEFT
Apr 16, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ALL FOUR SPINDLES WERE RUSTED OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 28....UPDATED 01/24/17 *BF CONSUMER STATED EXCESSIVE RUST TRANSMISSION, BURNING WIRES, SLIPPING BRAKE FAILURE UPDATED 06/12/18*JB
Jun 16, 2016
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaints
This car is an accident waiting to happen. 1st car kept on shuddering or pulling while driving over 40 miles per hour. Took it to Ray Price Ford in Stroudsburg PA 4 times they couldn’t diagnose or replicate what I was talking about. I had to pull over a few times because I thought a cable popped or I hit something. Took it back the 5th time 6/2020 92,000 miles just out of warranty they finally diagnosed it with a bad transmission. $6,000. I fought with them and was able to get them to split the cost because they weren’t able to diagnose it when it was under warranty. I thought I was past the nightmare called Ford Escape. However around 5/2024, 115,00 miles my daughter was driving the car on the highway. Cruising at 60mph, when she had to press the gas pedal to speed up to get to her exit. The car lost power, she floored it and it wouldn’t move. She pulled over and called us. She said the check engine light came on and the car had no pickup when she stepped on the gas pedal .I told her to drive it home with the hazards on. We took it to Ray Price and they said the turbocharger was on the way out and cleared the code. I called Ford customer service to complain again about the piece of garbage that they sold us and their answer was if the car is over 7 years old and 100,000 miles they can’t help. I think that’s total [XXX]!!! I have never had a car that the transmission went before 100,000 miles. Ford customer Service is a joke. There was just a huge recall on their F-150’s for transmission problems. They are making dangerous vehicles and they need to fix them. It’s not fair that you buy a vehicle for $30,000 or more and then you have to replace the transmission and turbocharger just over 100,000 miles. These vehicles should be recalled and fixed once and for all. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jun 26, 2024
I was driving home in 2016 Ford Escape and I noticed the RPM's getting higher and higher, but car's speed was actually declining. All maintenance work has been done at Maxwell d in Austin TX. Never had any problems with the transmission and no warning lights, nothing. Until this day....Transmission fault, Service Soon. I was close to being home, so somehow I made it. Be then, everybody wanted know what was going on so did i. I called the dealership, talked to Andrew and made arrangements for car to be towed to Ford on Tuesday, October 3rd. They finally looked at it the car on Monday the 9th....new transmission and labor, almost $8,000. I can not afford that. Having it towed to another repair shop. Getting an estimate from second shop. Why is this not a recall. It should be. Call me [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 10, 2023
While operating the vehicle, the transmission shifter failed to appropriately shift into the intended gear position, which caused the car to not drive when the gear was in “drive” the car would not move forward when pushing on the gas pedal which left us in an extremely dangerous predicament. The intended function of the transmission was completely unreliable. When shifting the transmission to or from the “Park” position, the transmission was unpredictable and did not sufficiently and safely put the car in the park position or in the intended position and significantly increased the risk of injury or crash. The car was inoperable because the transmission was no longer functioning properly or safely enough to drive and we had no other choice but to have the car towed and the repair fixed in order to have a safe functioning vehicle. Because of the safety recall for the same issue, we are requesting a full refund totaling $3,500.09 for the repaired issue.
Jul 19, 2022
WAS DRIVING VEHICLE AT 35 MPH THEN ENGINE DIED, SERVICE ENGINE NOW LIGHT CAME ON, MESSAGE CENTER SAID CONTACT DEALER. RESTARTED AFTER PUT IN PARK. CHECKED FOR CODES WITH GENERIC SCAN TOOL, OBD2 CODE P2112 IN MEMORY. CONTACTED DEALER PURCHASED FROM FOR SERVICE. WAS TOLD NO CODES, BUT BATTERY HAD BEEN DISCONNECTED, CLOCK WAS RESET AND ALL RADIO PRESETS ERASED AND BLUETOOTH ERASED.
Aug 01, 2016
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that there was as an abnormal audible alarm sounding inside the vehicle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 (Power Train) but was informed by the dealer that the recall repair would not fix the failure with the vehicle. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced and was given an estimate for repair. The contact disputed the diagnosis and believed that the failure was related to the vehicle's computer system. The manufacturer was notified of the recall and was referred to the NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000. The contact stated that the dealer that the vehicle was purchased from was aware of the defect beforehand.
Feb 06, 2023
I pulled into a walkway access and a passenger got out and closed the door. I shifted the gear shift to reverse and backed up so I could proceed to my left and shifted the gear shift to Drive but, the vehicle went backward. Sitting there with my foot on the brake I turned the key off. I was unable to put it in Park until pushing it to a better position and removing power to the fuse box rather than searching for the fuse that got it. While in Park the reverse lights were on, so I was not able to start; I had it towed to a mechanic because it was stuck in reverse. The next day I learned the mechanic was unable to get information from the modules and it needed to be transported to the local dealership. I have now missed 2 nights of work and the Dealership estimates the 23rd for completion but is not providing a rental nor loner; so poor manufacturing on good faith purchase is complaint here. Additional info - I did hear clicking on the interstate from forward in the vehicle and a brake light bulb went out between receiving the safety notice and the breakdown. I'm not sure I recall the rear video for backing was on or off. I recall an incident last winter while sliding on ice and a semi was in a slide toward me that with the wheels locked in breaking it died when shifting to reverse; it's safer if it does shift because cars can spin on ice into oncoming traffic and I've kept the oncoming traffic lane free before.
Aug 06, 2022
THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET. MILEAGE AT THE TIME OF FAILURE WAS SLIGHTLY OVER 86, 000 MILES. THAT SHOULD NOT BE A THING. WE HAVE ALSO HAD CONSTANT ISSUES WITH THE RADIO/DISPLAY INCLUDING TOTAL FAILURE AND REAR CAMERA NOT SHOWING.
Dec 19, 2020
WHILE DRIVING AROUND 40MPH, VEHICLE CUT OFF AND DISPLAYED A MESSAGE: TRANSMISSION NOT IN PARK. AFTER PULLING OVER AND RESTARTING VEHICLE, THE VOLUME ON RADIO MOVED UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN WHILE TRANSMISSION IN THE PARKED POSITION. LATER THAT DAY VEHICLE CUT OFF WITHIN 30 SECONDS OF USING REMOTE STARTER. DEALER UNABLE TO DUPLICATE PROBLEM OR FIND ANY DIAGNOSTIC CODES. *TR
Jan 16, 2017
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 65-70 mph, the vehicle decelerated without warning. The vehicle loss motive power and stalled. The contact was unable to shift the vehicle into drive or reverse. The contact stated that the vehicle was revving abnormally. The vehicle was restarted and driven off the highway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the transmission failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Jul 15, 2021
I HAVE NOTICED THAT AFTER APPLYING NORMAL PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES, THE ABS INDICATOR AND THE HILL ASSIST NOTICE APPEAR. ALSO ANOTHER WARNING LIGHT COMES ON THE DASH BOARD. ALSO, THE SPEEDOMETER DOESN'T WORK ANYMORE. WHEN THIS HAPPENS THE ENGINE WILL NOT TURN OFF. THIS HAS HAPPENED 10 TIMES IN THE PAST 2 WEEKS. EVENTUALLY THE ENGINE WILL TORN ITSELF OFF AFTER APPROXIMATELY 20-30 MINUTES. I NOTICED THAT THE ABS LIGHT COMES ON AFTER STOPPING AT A LIGHT. IT MAY COME ON AT OTHER TIMES WHILE I AM DRIVING THE VEHICLE, BUT I NOTICE THE LIGHT WHEN STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE.
Sep 09, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY REDUCED SPEED AND A "SERVICE ENGINE" MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000.
Sep 12, 2016
LSUDDEN COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER UNEXPECTEDLY DRIVING AT LOW OR HIGH SPEED. RUFF RUNNING WITHOUT ABILITY TO ACCELERATE. WARING MESSAGE OF "HILL ASSIT" NOT ACTIVATED. VERY DANGEROUS SENARIO WHILE ON INTERSTATE. OCCURRED 3 (THREE) TIMES IN 2 DAYS. CAR WAS A HERTZ RENTAL CAR AND I WAS TOLD, AFTER COMPAINING THAT REQUESTED CAR WAS NOT AVAILABLE, THAT THIS CAR IS BETTER AND MORE RELIABLE THAN MY REQUESTED TOYOTA RAV 4. THINKING BACK IT'S AS IF THEY KNEW ABOUT THE ESCAPE'S LIABILITY.
Aug 09, 2016
POWER TRAIN,BACK OVER PREVENTION
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 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 driving 60 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the vehicle vibrated abnormally. The message "Motor Work Required" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that three weeks after the vehicle was purchased, the transmission failed to operate as intended. The contact replaced the transmission. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nov 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon refueling the vehicle and resuming driving 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power in bumper-to-bumper traffic. The contact was unable to pull over to the side of the road. The contact shifted to neutral(N) and shifted back to drive(D), but the vehicle failed to respond and started rolling backwards on leveled road surface. The contact activated the hazard lights and continuously depressed the brake pedal while steering the vehicle on the busy road. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The contact stated that the vehicle made two abnormal loud popping sounds and came to a complete stop. The vehicle was towed to Firestone, where the contact was informed that the failure could be related to the transmission, and that the transmission could not be serviced. The vehicle was then towed to Autohub, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure, and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The auto warranty company was contacted and confirmed that the vehicle was no longer covered. Additionally, the contact stated that the rearview camera image was inverted and distorted while reversing. 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 vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failures. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Nov 07, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the transmission was slipping while shifting gear and the vehicle jerked abnormally. In addition, the contact noticed a grinding sound and a burning odor coming from the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure began shortly after the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the vehicle was purchased. The contact was provided an option to trade the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact stated that while reversing, the back over camera system displayed a black screen and became disabled. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic regarding the back over camera system failure and the vehicle was diagnosed with an electrical systems failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 54,500.
May 30, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera was turning on and off continuously while driving. The contact stated that the failure was causing a distraction while driving. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera was inoperable while reversing. Additionally, the infotainment system was inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under recall, and a case was filed. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000.
Jun 26, 2025
Engine control computer malfunction is causing the engine, SYNC, bluetooth, brake lights, and rearview camera to malfunction.
May 25, 2023
Rear view camera stopped working almost a year ago, and out of no where the transmission stopped working. I recently just got an oil change and asked for the works to get my whole car checked out and that report as all the reports before it came back with no issues. So found it surprising that this happened.
May 23, 2023
VISIBILITY
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 58 MPH in the rain, the sunroof glass panel exploded and shattered. The contact continued driving. The contact had not sustained any injuries. The dealer was notified of the failure and provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and transferred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 119,500.
May 05, 2025
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED WITH A LOUD NOISE. GLASS ENTERED THE VEHICLE AND THERE WAS A LARGE HOLE DUE TO THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE GLASS WAS REMOVED FROM THE SUN ROOF AREA BY A GLASS REPAIR FACILITY WHO ORDERED THE REPLACEMENT GLASS. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT WAS WAITING FOR THE SUN ROOF REPLACEMENT PART. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE NOT AVAILABLE.
Oct 17, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED UPWARDS AND MADE A VERY LOUD NOISE WITHOUT WARNING. THE GLASS SHATTERED AND THE PIECES FELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DID NOT DO ANYTHING, BUT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS UNUSUAL. THE DEALER SPECULATED THAT SOMETHING MAY HAVE HIT THE ROOF TO CAUSE THE EXPLOSION; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT DISAGREED. THE MANUFACTURER GAVE THE CONTACT A CASE NUMBER AND PROMISED TO CALL THE CONTACT BACK. THE VEHICLE REMAINED AT THE DEALER'S, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 21,592. UPDATED 05/10/17*LJ *CN
Feb 07, 2017
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the instrument panel became inoperable. The traction control, the ABS, the brakes, and the knee air bag warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the Police Department mechanic VIPD Motor Pool, where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS module had failed, causing other electrical failures. The mechanic determined that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Jan 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the traction control and brake warning lights were illuminated. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 120,022.
Nov 08, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE IN DIFFERENT WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE BRAKES MADE AN ABNORMAL SQUEAKING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 11/01/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN MAKING SHARP LEFT TURNS, THE BRAKES MADE A LOUD SQUEAKING NOISE. ALSO, THERE WAS A SCRAPING ROUGH FEELING WHEN THE BRAKE WAS APPLIED. UPDATED 12/13/16.*JB
Sep 07, 2016
ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaints
The coolant leaks into the engine. I have already had it fixed before. It did it again and ruined my engine. I am now on the hook to replace the engine and still paying the car off. Looking to Google shows this is a known issue that ford refuses to address and has cost thousands of people a lot of money.
Apr 13, 2024
Check engine light is on at 63,000 miles. Ford dealer confirmed coolant in cylinder and immanent total engine failure, so vehicle is not safe to drive as it may stop at any time and loss of coolant. Only indication is the check engine light. Dealer quoted repairs for engine, turbo, and cat converter replacement at over $18,000. Research on the internet reveals that this is a common failure. Since the warranty is out of the time and 3k over the covered range they will do absolutely nothing to remedy the issue. The sticker price on the Escape Titanium is over $37,000.
Jan 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started overheating. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and waited until the vehicle cool down and added coolant to the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who stated that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NTHSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Aug 22, 2023
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact noticed that there was a burn mark and a bubble in the front driver’s side fog light. The contact stated that heat from the bulb melted the cover. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Jan 19, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS BECAME DIM, DECREASING THE VISIBILITY IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HOLIDAY FORD LOCATED AT 1003 US-82, WHITESBORO, TX 76273, 1-800-293-6213, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE TECHNICIAN DUPLICATED THE FAILURE HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO FIX FOR THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND FILED A CASE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 17. *LN CONSUMER STATED DUE TO POOR LIGHTING VEHICLE IS UNSAFE AT NIGHT.*JB
Jul 09, 2020
AFTER DRIVING 3200 MILE. WE NOTICED WATER DROPS FROM 1/8 TO3/16 OF AN INCH IN THE DRIVER SIDE REAR TAIL LIGHTS.. IN THE MORNING I TOOK THE AUTO TO FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED IT. THEY TOOK PICTURES OF THE FINE WATER DROPLETS AND SENT THE PICTURES AND OTHER INFO TO MAIN FORD OFFICES. I WAS CALLED BACK A FEW HOURS LATER. NOTIFIED THAT THIS WAS NORMAL AND WATER WILL GO OUT THE LENS'S VALVE. WHEN I SAID I WOULD BRING IT BACK DAILY IF NEEDED TO SOLVE PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD NOT TO DO SO UNLESS A DIFFERENT PICTURE COULD BE TAKEN BECAUSE IT TOOK ALL OF 3 HOURS OF HIS TIME TO REVIEW AND DECIDE WHAT TO DO, WHICH WAS NOTHING.
Jul 05, 2016
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
I have replaced the transmission due to the toque converter acting up and then failing. I have replaced now 3 coolant parts as well due to leaking and constant overheating and have replaced the block once as well.
Jan 24, 2026
Vechile showing transmission not in park
Aug 15, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
I have a 2016 Ford Escape SE with the Ecoboost engine. I have been experiencing the same issue with misfires in port 4 which also shows an open circuit every time as well for over the past year. The dealership has replaced everything underneath including but not limited to my spark plugs, wires, coils, and even my entire wiring harness. The issue is still happening and they do not know what is causing it. I think my vehicle may fall under the complaint failure FORD currently has on their 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 Ecoboost engines. It has been to the dealership for the same repairs over 8 different times. When is enough actually enough. I have lost power several times in traffic and it's like slamming on my brakes. This is how bad the misfire is. My check engine light has been flashing due to this issue as well as being on solid. Please help or advise.
Jan 22, 2026
I was driving the car and I was having issues with it shutting off when I was driving the car it shut off in the middle of me driving and it just wouldn't move after that until a tow truck driver came and gave me a jumpstart that happened a number of times, but in the middle of traffic was the worst and very dangerous when my kids are in the car
Aug 23, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
Around Aug. 3, I noticed that when I drove, the interior lights would not turn off. When the car was off, they went out as they should. But every time I started the car they came on and would not turn off. It made it very difficult to drive went it was getting dark. The dealership confirmed that it wasn't the knobs inside the car that were causing this problem. Later, I took it in for them to find out what was wrong. I scheduled an appointment and dropped off the car. That was Aug, 7. Today is September 1, and I have no idea when I might get my car back. Apparently, it needed a 'body control module'. They got a new Ford part, put it in and it solved the problem with the interior lights, but nothing else was working. They tried a second new, Ford part with the same results. So, I've been without a car, I have had a rental for a week, but will be turning it in, too expensive for me. I need a car I work mornings. What are my options now? It only has 52,000 miles. And while I am the 2nd owner, it belonged to a friend that I lived with and took care of and was the primary driver. How long before they should say we can't fix it?
Sep 01, 2025
I had the bushing recall done. My interior lights no longer work. I keep getting brake lamp bulb warning. AutoNation dealer Amherst stated it was the battery. Charged me $100 to run diagnostic. Took vehicle to Walmart for battery replacement. Did not fix the issue.
May 03, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
a couple of years ago my car started having problems when accelerating, it would not accelerate or almost get to stall without warning, a couple times I got the message " engine fault - service now" . I took my car to the dealership and they could not find the root cause because the message would disappear when turning the car off and on again, therefore they could not reproduce the issue but my car had this same episode 3 times over the past 8 years without resolution from the dealership. finally a few days ago the issue came back but this time the message is not going away after turning off the car, I used a code reader and the error code reads: P0236. I am trying to get an appointment at the dealership to have my car looked at and finally have the repair done. but I believe my ford escape should be part of recall No. 14V495000 for Ford Escape MY 2013-2014 along with other Ford escapes model year 2016.
Jun 17, 2025
Vehicle check engine light goes on usually during hot weather. Vehicle stalls and hesitates on acceleration causing unsafe conditions with traffic, intersections, etc.
Aug 15, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
Uncontrollable acceleration increase; Difficult and rough starting; Engine overheating warning lights and message alerts; Coolant empty and no visible leak; Continued loss of coolant; Copious moisture smelling of anti freeze coming from exhaust; Check engine light codes: P1450, P1450 pd, PO302
Jul 23, 2024
I HAVE A 2016 FORD ESCAPE 4WD. IT IS CONSISTENTLY STALLING WHEN DRIVING. I'VE BEEN TOLD THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I PAID $22,000 FOR THE CAR AND IT IS ONLY A FEW YEARS OLD. THE INTERNET HAS SEVERAL COMPLAINTS FROM OTHERS REPORTING THE SAME OR SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH THEIR 2016 FORD ESCAPE. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE THE CAR AS IT STALLS IN INTERSECTIONS WITH ON COMING TRAFFIC. FORD COMPANY IS STATING IF IT'S NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND THEIR IS NO RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM THEY WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ACCEPT AN ENGINE OR TRANSMISSION REPLACEMENT AT MY COST WHICH IS UPWARDS OF $6000. I CAN'T DO ANYTHING WITH THE CAR AND IT'S TOO EXPENSIVE TO DO WHAT THEY ARE SAYING IS THE REPAIR. THEY KNOW THIS PROBLEM IS COMMON AND A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. I GUESS THEY HAVE WEIGHED THE COST OF THE RECALL AND DECIDED PEOPLE SHOULD DIE FIRST BEFORE THEY WILL BE FORCED TO DO THE RIGHT THING BY ACKNOWLEDGING AND FIXING THE PROBLEM.
Dec 03, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
While driving home going about 40 mph my Ford Escape lost acceleration and then completely shut off IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD! I was able to "limp" it to the side of the street where it would not start at all. I then placed it in reverse (as I was on a hill) to roll it backwards into a neighborhood to get it out of the way of on coming traffic. It was 10 PM at night! I waited for a few minutes and was able to get it to start but not change gears. I was able to get it to my neighborhood with hazards on going barely 10mph. It literally rolled into my driveway where it has been since (November 2023).
Jan 05, 2024
While driving the car shuddered and then shut off. The transmission light came on with a warning about 5 minutes after it shut off. So there was never a warning and we were unable to get it to go back into any gear.
Oct 24, 2023
TIRES
2 complaints
I purchased the Goodyear Assurance tires (235/55R17) when I purchased my Escape with the understanding that they had a life of 80,000 miles. They're barely through the halfway point and show signs of cracking and wire protrusion. We ran over a screw and they hole was beyond repair and the technician pointed out how the tire was failing. All four are being replaced for safety concerns.
Jul 11, 2023
MICHELIN GREEN X 55R17 ALL FOUR TIRES HAD THE BELTS SEPARATE FROM THE RUBBER AT LESS THAN 34,000 MILES. NO CRASH AS IT WAS CAUGHT IN TIME BUT VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM. DOT NUMBER IS NOT ENTIRELY LEGIBLE BUT LOOKS LIKE X3 JJ 0J0X 2115. PURCHASE NEW ON A 2016 FORD ESCAPE.
Mar 06, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaints
I order a nav upgrade from Ford $299, was unable to install it Ford said go to dealer, car was going to dealer for abs sensor bad and vehicle collision sensor bad, dealer fixed other two problems but couldnt upgrade nav and while dealer tried they killed the whole radio/sync/nav/handsfree turn the touch screen black and unresponsive. Now they want $1000 plus for APIM replacement. I could live without the navigation update but now Ford's sync update killed my APIM/sync/radio/handsfree and I cannot live without that.
Jun 28, 2023
Today- 5/22/2023 - Ford dealer attempted to perform sync3 software update from version 1 to version 3 as promoted and advertised by Ford Motor Co. This was performed by dealer after personal attempts at Wi-Fi and flash drive update processes failed. Following dealer attempted sync 3 update, no update could be accomplished and the synch 3 system is now not active- no radio, Bluetooth( hands free phone usage), no rear camera or safety alarm for potential obstacles when backing up. I was informed the issue is a common result due to defective APIM module. Yet Ford promotes/ provides the software updates ( free) thru their website/ dealers. I have filed a claim with Ford today and initially told there is nothing they can do, but I can purchase a new APIM module ($750) and have it installed ($300) that may correct this.
May 22, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER REFUELING, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT IMMEDIATELY RESTART. AFTER RESTARTING THE VEHICLE, WHILE DRIVING AT UNDISCLOSED SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WERE NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,000. THE CONSUMER STATED SNOW WAS ENTERING THE VEHICLE AT THE HATCH AND THE DRIVER SIDE BACK DOOR.
Nov 10, 2020
2016 ESCAPE WITH NO HISTORY OR PROBLEMS PRIOR TO EVENTS HERE. DURING A TRIP FROM HOME APPROXIMATELY 50 MILES AWAY VEHICLE OPERATED JUST FINE. AFTER A 5 MIN STOP, I RE-ENTERED AND STARTED THE VEHICLE. AFTER ABOUT 2 MILES AND WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY TRAVELING 70 MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUTTERED AND ACCELERATION AGGRAVATED THIS SITUATION. POWER LOSS WAS PRESENT, AND VEHICLE STALLED OUT. I COASTED TO SHOULDER. ATTEMPTED NUMEROUS RESTARTS THAT WOULD SEEM TO CATCH BUT SOON STALL OUT. EVENTUALLY GOT THE VEHICLE TO RUN ENOUGH TO LIMP OFF THE HIGHWAY. VERY LOW POWER. PARKED FOR 20 MIN AND RESTARTED WITH NO APPARENT ISSUE. ENGINE LIGHT WAS PRESENT SINCE FIRST STALL. DROVE ABOUT 1 MILE AND SYMPTOMS RETURNED. LOW POWER AND STALLED OUT. VEHICLE RESTARTED AND I AGAIN LIMPED OFF HIGHWAY. EVENTUALLY GOT TO EXIT AND OFF INTO A PARKING LOT. NUMEROUS STALLS AND NEVER ANY REAL POWER. WAITED FOR A TOW FROM THERE AND VEHICLE RESTARTED WITH NO ISSUES WHEN DRIVING IT ONTO THE TOW TRAILER. FUEL PRESSURES WERE NORMAL, AND CODES WERE P06A7, P0106 AND P0236 WERE PRESENT AND PERMANENT WHICH WAS ALSO A NEW DEVELOPMENT. PERMANENT CODES HAVE BEEN ELUSIVE. A PREVIOUS RECALL ON 2013-2014 ESCAPES FITS THIS ISSUE EXACTLY. AFTER NUMEROUS HOURS OF RESEARCH, I AM CONVINCED THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE INVOLVED IN THE PREVIOUS FORD TSB 13-12-12 AND THE PREVIOUS TSB 13-7-5. I WAS IN GREAT DANGER WHEN THIS VEHICLE STALLED ON THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT WARNING. RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC ON 70 PLUS MPH ROAD WITH ALMOST NO SHOULDER. BECAUSE OF THIS AND THE DISABLING OF THE AIRBAGS WHEN THIS FAILURE OCCURS ALONG WITH THE SEAT BELT ACTUATORS, I THINK IT'S REASONABLE TO ASSUME THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. I'M CONFIDENT THIS ISSUE CAN BE REPLICATED.
Feb 21, 2019
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaints
JAN. 24, 2019 POWER STEERING ASSIST LIGHT CAME ON HAD NO POWER STEERING. CONTACTED LANGLADE FORD IN ANTIGO, WI TOOK IT THERE THEY TOLD ME I HAD TO REPLACE THE EPAS COMPLETE SYSTEM AND IT WAS DONE ON FEB. 1, 2019 AT COST OF $1683.41 AS MY 3 YEAR WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. I WROTE TO FORD IN DEARBORN, MI ABOUT IT, AND RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THEM ON MAR. 8, 2019 THEY STATED "COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED, DOCUMENTED AND SENT TO THEIR APPROPRIATE DEPARTMENT". THEY NEED TO HAVE A RECALL ON THIS AS IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT AT ALL WITH NO POWER STEERING I AM FORTUNATE IT DID NOT LOCK UP ON ME. THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME SUBMIT THIS, I KNOW I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT'S HAD THIS PROBLEM.
Apr 30, 2019
I WAS CRUISING AT ABOUT 35-40MPH ON CITY STREET. SUDDENLY THE MOTOR PRACTICALLY QUIT. THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY SLOWED DOWN TO ABOUT 5 MPH. THE "STABILITY CONTROL" WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. LUCKILY, THERE WERE NO VEHICLES BEHIND ME ON THAT 9:20 PM SUNDAY 7/24. THE PROBLEM WAS SOLVED AFTER DOING WHAT THE MANUAL ADVISED: TURN OFF THE MOTOR, RESTART (AFTER A FEW MINUTE AT LEAST, I FOUND OUT). THE NEXT MORNING AND AFTER STARTING THE MOTOR, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I HAD FORD DEALERSHIP CHECK THE VEHICLE THAT MORNING.
Jul 28, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON 85N IN ATANTA, GA, WHILE ROUGHLY DRIVING AT A SPEED OF 65MPH IN THE MIDDLE LANE AT 7AM ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 12, 2018, THE BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR SHUT COMPLETELY OFF AND WITH NO WARNING! I TAKE EXCELLENT CARE OF THE CAR WITH ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND HAVE APPROXIMATELY 51K MILES ON IT. FOR THIS CAR TO TURN OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF MORNING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC ON AN ATLANTA MAJOR INTERSTATE, NOT ONLY ENDANGERED MY LIFE BUT THE LIVES OF HUNDREDS OF OTHER DRIVERS! THANKFULLY THERE WAS A GAP IN THE TRAFFIC BEHIND ME SO I WAS ABLE TO GUIDE THE CAR OUT OF THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSTATE SINCE WHILE THE CAR WAS STILL IN MOVEMENT BUT WITH NO POWER. I BARELY MADE ON TO THE SHOULDER. AFTER SITTING ON THE SHOULDER FOR OVER 30 MINS, WAITING ON A TOW TRUCK, THE CAR FINALLY STARTED BACK UP. I STILL HAD IT TOWED TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED IT AND HAVE MY MAINTENANCE DONE ON THE CAR. AFTER HAVING THE CAR FOR 3 DAYS I WAS TOLD THAT THEY CAN NOT "DUPLICATE THE ERROR". DIAGNOSTICS WERE RUN ON THE CAR MULTIPLE TIMES AND NO ISSUES WERE FOUND. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. IT IS NOT NORMAL FOR A CAR TO TURN OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF A MAJOR INTERSTATE AND FOR THE CARS COMPUTER TO NOT HAVE A RECORD OF THE SHUT DOWN. IN ADDITION TO THAT, WHAT IF IT HAPPENS AGAIN BUT I AM INJURED OR INJURE SOMEONE ELSE! I'VE LOOKED AT OTHER COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME TYPE OF VEHICLE AND OTHER MOTORISTS HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME TYPE OF PROBLEM; THE CAR TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING. SOMETHING IS SERIOUSLY WRONG WITH THE 2016 FORD ESCAPE AND FORD ISN'T PROPERLY ADDRESSING THE PROBLEMS!
Jan 16, 2018
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS (ROUGHLY 70 MPH) MY VEHICLE COMPLETELY TURNED OFF WITH NO WARNING AND SAID "ENGINE FAULT. SERVICE NOW". BY THE GRACE OF GOD I DID NOT GET REAR ENDED. I SUCCESSFULLY RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND MADE IT HOME. THE SAME THING HAPPENED THE NEXT MORNING, THIS TIME ON CITY STREETS GOING ROUGHLY 20 MPH DURING RUSH HOUR. AGAINST, I WAS BEYOND LUCKY TO HAVE NOT GOTTEN INJURED OR WORSE AND THERE WAS NO WARNING AGAIN.
Sep 11, 2016
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT FAILED TO LOCK, WHICH CAUSED HIM TO BE EJECTED FROM HIS SEAT. THE CONTACT STRUCK THE STEERING WHEEL AND THE DASHBOARD. ALL THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A RIGHT SHOULDER INJURY AND THE LEFT ULNAR NERVE WAS SPLIT IN TWO AND WAS SMASHED. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. THE CONTACT DROVE TO THE HOSPITAL AFTER THE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE MUFFLER, THE RIGHT QUARTER PANEL, THE BOTTOM HALF OF THE TRUNK, THE REAR BUMPER, AND THE STRUCTURAL FRAME BEHIND THE BUMPER'S REINFORCEMENT BAR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
Dec 14, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A DEER. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED RIB AND BREAST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A FORD DEALER COLLISION CENTER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 95,000.
Dec 07, 2016
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the ABS warning light illuminated intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available. Additionally, while driving approximately 40 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the engine compartment and the vehicle shuddered and lost motive power. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road, where a passerby assisted the contact in disconnecting and reconnecting the battery, and the vehicle was restarted but lost motive power while attempting to accelerate. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and the vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be rebuilt, and that the ABS system was defective and needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced but the ABS system was not replaced because the part was discontinued by the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nov 24, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 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 rearview camera displayed a distorted image while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact stated that the failure obstructed the driver's visibility, which prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. In addition, there was an abnormal sound coming from the camera. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, after the vehicle was purchased, the liftgate failed to function as intended. The liftgate occasionally opened and closed independently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the message "Transmission Fault - Service Now" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact had the transmission fluid changed. However, the message was displayed again. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.
Nov 18, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon opening the liftgate, the liftgate started closing unintendedly and struck the contact on the head. There was no injury sustained. The dealer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Nov 12, 2025
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
The vehicle experienced multiple critical system failures within one week of purchase: Transmission failure (slipping, delayed shifting, and stalling during acceleration) Braking system malfunction (brakes jump or pulse when pressed, inconsistent stopping) Fluid leakage inside the cabin near the gas and brake pedals (believed to be either brake fluid or transmission fluid) The vehicle is currently undrivable and can be made available for inspection upon request. The vehicle became a severe safety hazard while I was operating it with my infant child in the car. The brakes were unresponsive and unpredictable, creating near-miss situations when trying to stop. The transmission failure caused stalling at intersections and hesitation when accelerating, putting me at risk of being rear-ended. The fluid leak near the pedals presents a possible fire hazard or the risk of further brake failure. I feared for my life and my child’s safety. The problem has not been confirmed by a mechanic yet because the dealership, Platinum Auto Sales in Arlington, VA, refused to take the vehicle back or inspect it after I reported the issues. I was dismissed when I returned to report the failures. I am currently seeking an independent inspection, but I want this formally documented as an urgent safety matter. I am in the process of filing reports with the Federal Trade Commission, state consumer protection, and local police regarding fraud and sale of a dangerous vehicle. I can make the vehicle available for inspection by NHTSA or a certified safety inspector. There were no warning lights or error messages at the time of purchase. The problems appeared within 24–48 hours of driving the vehicle: Difficulty shifting and hesitation when accelerating began almost immediately Brake issues and pedal fluid leakage appeared by Day 3 By Day 5, the vehicle became unsafe to drive altogether
Jul 02, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was stationary, the vehicle became hard to shift into gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact's daughter took the vehicle to a dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the canister purge valve, valve cover, oil pan gasket, engine, and turbo needed to be replaced. The contact had received an unknown recall notification for the transmission. The contact authorized the canister purge valve to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 119,500.
Apr 23, 2025
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle failed to respond. The oil warning light was illuminated with an abnormally loud whirring sound. The contact then turned off and restarted the vehicle and the vehicle started working properly. On another occasion while driving into school parking lot, the brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard and the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact struck the curve and the vehicle drove onto the grass and came to a stop. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with internal gear failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 148,611.
Mar 25, 2025
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
On October 16, 2022, I purchased a 2016 Ford Escape from the Stowasser Buick GMC car lot. I have had numerous problems with this vehicle since the beginning. On November 1, 2022, I took my car to their service department because it was running poorly. The mechanics worked on my vehicle and returned it to me. However, on January 8, 2023, I had to take my vehicle back to Stowasser shop because it was again running poorly. This time, they had to install a new motor. At that time, my mileage was 49,000, but when the vehicle was returned to me, it had 75,000 miles on it. I asked why the mileage had increased so significantly, but they kept changing the subject and never provided an answer. When I went to pick up my vehicle, the salesperson who sold me the vehicle whispered to me that my vehicle needed new tires badly. I feel this was something the dealer should have addressed. I had not put many miles on my vehicle for the tires to be so worn. On January 18, 2023, I had to put new tires on this vehicle, which cost me $756.00. It was difficult for me to come up with this money, but I had no choice if I needed reliable transportation. I had traded in my older vehicle because I needed transportation, I could count on in my retirement years. On October 2, 2024, I needed new brakes, which were badly worn down. This expense cost me $900.00. The mechanic told me the oil level was very low and asked if a red light had come on to warn me. I said, "No, there was no sensor light." If it had not been for the thoroughness of my mechanic, I would have driven off with no oil in the engine. Right now, my car is parked because another senor light came on and I was told that it is the catalytic converter. I am distraught because I trusted Stowasser that they would take care of me because they knew I was retired and needed a reliable vehicle. I have lost my job, exhausted my unemployment benefits, and now live on Social Security. I cannot afford to fix this lemon of a car I was sold.
Mar 25, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
My car overheated when I pulled over I noticed my engine coolant low. I had a mechanic add more fluids then a day later car shuts off why I was going 65 on a highway . I was pushing down on the gas peddle but my car would not go. It was barely moving no matter how far I pushed gas peddle. I finally found a somewhat area to pull over . I almost died or was seriously injuried in a few close call accidents this day. Had someone look at it from a garage in town he said it was a fuse and a cylinder misfire. No engine light no issues then my car over heated again no warning just shut down but the car still on Emmy lights didn’t work my turn signals didn’t work . Then my car stopped dead in a busy roadway over heated smoking . Now I’m time I need an engine replacement Let me add my car only has 60000 miles on it and is in great maintained condition I am a single mother of 3 young kids and take care of my mom. Not employed due to a bad relationship and trying to get back on my feet and now this . Coolest leaks into cylinder causing over heating and catastrophic engine damage , so upset over this and ford won’t even diagnose my car with out a 200 dollar charge to start with . It’s pathetic
Nov 17, 2024
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
The component that malfunctioned was my transmission according to the mechanic. I was driving and all the sudden my car stopped and wouldn't go, then the accelerator started going to the max but nothing happened. My first thought was a flat tire and after I checked my tires it wasn't flat. I started my car back up and it did the same thing eventually stalling and not moving at all. The wheel locked and would not move to steer or release. I had to get it towed. This is a huge safety issue concern because it stopped in the middle of the road while I was driving putting my life and others at risk. It's available for inspection upon request.The problem was confirmed by a mechanic in which he said there was a recall at some point on the transmission for my vehicle but he was unsure if it was still active. There were no warning lamps or signs and there still isn't present on my dash. Thus making there being no warning signs at all a safety issues for myself and others.
Oct 03, 2024
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
When driving the car at interstate speeds the transmission overheats after just a few minutes. When this happens it triggers the car’s information system to send a message stating “Transmission Fault Service Engine Now.” Just a moment or two later it sends another message stating “Speeds Reduced To Lower Engine Temperature.” Once that message is received you no longer have any throttle control and speed will continue to decline, speed dropped from 70 mph to 30 is maybe an minute, until you pull over and let the transmission cool down. This is especially hazardous on the interstate if your in faster moving traffic with cars behind you and you can no longer accelerate with no way to signal this to the traffic behind you except the four ways. The problem seems to be the fan to cool the transmission never gets the signal to turn on and cool down the transmission. This is an ongoing issue with this vehicle and has been since I got it, there are also multiple site and forums full of this same year make and model having the same issue.
Dec 24, 2023
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
1 complaint
The transmission failed at 116,00 miles with no warning. The warning light went on after the transmission failed and the car would not move. The dealer replaced the transmission at a cost of $5600. Also, the lug nuts swelled and could not be removed with the lug wrench supplied by Ford.
May 08, 2023
STRUCTURE,WHEELS,ENGINE
1 complaint
Since purchasing this vehicle there have been many issues. I had purchased the additional warranties also only to have the dealership say they were not covered. First my roof leaked. Had to take to a repair shop through the dealership, luggage racks had to be taken off and welds redone. Next the catalytic converters went bad with only approximately 50,000 miles. Ford would not talk to me and the dealership stated it is not covered under the extended warranty. Somehow I paid minimal repairs but during that time their best mechanic was fired. Next the Continental tires pealed. I had the tire warranty and the dealership would not cover. I called Continental they stated that they knew these tires were bad but yet they were still sold on vehicles! After much complaining and stress all but $400 was covered by Continental. The dealership did very little. At approximately 65,000 the engine blew. I found out by a local repair shop that Ford had an Escape safety issue on their site about the engines. After speaking with Ford twice they refused to speak to me any longer and only the dealership if I wanted the engine replaced. I did and was given numerous different amounts it would cost me. Since this was Ford's manufacturing issue I should have paid nothing. It took over 4 months to repair my vehicle. I had to complain to Ford and the dealership to get a loaner. I am a 66 year old single women who depended on the quality of Ford. I had tried to email Ford representatives and call with no reply ever. Each of these issues had no warnings lights nor were there any problems prior to the issues occurring. These issues could have caused major accident by the engine quitting in traffic or blowing, and the tires pealing. Ford motor needs to pay for all these issues. There needs to be a class action suit.
Jan 19, 2023
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
I crashed car because is park according with transmission and car still moved and hit fence, I contact ford for this incident and still waiting someone contact me. So I decide lawsuits against Ford
Nov 22, 2022
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
1 complaint
INGINE LIGHT/SUSPENSION LIGHTS WENT ON. CAR JERKS AND SHAKES ON THE ROAD AND PULLS TO THE RIGHT MAKING IT HARD TO KEEP THE STEERING WHEEL STRAIGHT
Oct 29, 2022
STEERING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Jerking, unwanted jolting, locked up steering
Aug 22, 2022
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while attempting to shift into reverse(R), the gear shifter remained in drive(D). The contact stated that upon moving the gear shifter into reverse(R) successfully, she heard an abnormal loud popping sound coming from the hood. The contact also saw smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an unknown dealer where the transmission was replaced. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 (Power Train) which she associated with the failure. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 10-15 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. A warning message indicating that the vehicle needed assistance was displayed. The contact veered to the side of the road. The contact stated that upon turning off and restarting the vehicle, the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact was able to drive to her residence however, the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was towed to an unknown local dealer and was being repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jul 12, 2022
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I was driving and my car felt like it changed from drive to neutral without any physical prompt on my part. The for escape kept rolling away and I was able to bring it to a parking lot. I was able to turn the vehicle off and tried turning it back on again. It felt like it was changing gears without being touched. It kept trying to move forward and reversing when it was on park. I was scared so I turned the car off and put the emergency break because of the strange shifting between gears that was happening. I had to have the vehicle towed as it is now inoperable. It is at the shop and is currently untouched . A few days later I found found has recalled my vehicle for transmission issues. I am now careless with no help in sight.
Jul 05, 2022
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that immediately after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start as needed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The mechanic was able to start the vehicle. The contact stated that on another occasion while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine started to rev causing the vehicle to lunge forward. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to control. The vehicle was stopped and then towed back to the independent mechanic. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 140,002.
Jun 22, 2022
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The roof rack leaks every time it rains or gets wet car wash etc. Underneath that roof rack mounting hole is the curtain airbag which is soaked every time that happens. The airbag is rusting/staining my headliner and I think based on that tachata recall this would be under the same scrutiny. Concerned about whether or not the airbag will deploy of if it's corroding away each time it rains. I reached out to Ford when the unit was under warranty and no assistance from them. I then tried to take things into my own hands and silicone it but it still leaks. I have no idea how or where anymore. Still assuming the roof rack though
Jun 17, 2022
PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
The contact owned a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that when the vehicle was in the park position on top of a hill and after they returned approximately a short time later they returned finding the vehicle rolled down the hill and crashed into a tree. The vehicle was towed and deemed totaled. A police report was not filed. There were no injuries. The dealer was not informed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Jun 15, 2022
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
The ecm become disconnected driving down the road causing the car to loose complete power. 1 week later steering failure warning alert on info cluster immediately followed by complete steering failure alert on info cluster. Loss of steering and control of car. Towed to Asheville Ford & Lincoln in Asheville NC for inspection. Receipt from Asheville Ford & Lincoln provided. Confirmed steering failure. The vehicle was NOT in any accident since my purchase of the car. Prior to my purchase of this car, it was in an accident reported by previous owner and not disclosed by the dealership. I located insurance receipts in glovebox of car where a body shop had done repairs resulting from an accident. My car was under extended warranty at that time however my claim was denied because I used a zip tie to secure the ecm back to the car when it disconnected. I couldn’t get the car in the shop to have it repaired right away and while waiting for an appointment from Ford, the incedent with the steering failure happened. I have plenty of notes, receipts and documentation of this situation and previous repairs made to the car prior to me purchasing it. Please let me know if any further info is needed and I’ll be glad to provide it. Ford instead voided my warranty without any written or verbal notice to me about anything. Still haven’t received a reason my claim was denied in writing.
Jun 09, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I BOUGHT IT AROUND AUG 1, 2019 WITH ABOUT 30,000 MI. LESS 2 MONTHS AFTER I BOUGHT IT, IT STARTED INTERMITTENTLY GOING TO LIMP MODE, WHERE I CAN'T ACCELERATE PAST ~1500 RPMS. RESTARTING THE CAR USUALLY MAKES IT GO BACK TO NORMAL. THOUGH SOMETIMES I HAVE TO RESTART THE CAR SEVERAL TIMES, WHICH SOMETIMES TRIGGERS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, AND/OR TURN IT OFF AND WAIT A COUPLE MIN TO MAKE IT GO AWAY. IF I RESTART THE CAR, AND IT IMMEDIATELY GOES BACK TO LIMP MODE, I CAN HEAR/SEE THE RPMS GO ABNORMALLY HIGH FOR SEC THEN GO BACK DOWN. WHEN IN LIMP MODE, THE TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT, AIRBNB WARNING LIGHT, "HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE" MESSAGE, AND "ENGINE FAULT SERVICE NOW" MESSAGE COME ON. IT USUALLY GOES INTO LIMP MODE AT LOW SPEEDS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC WHEN I'M STOPPING AND SOMETIMES WHEN ACCELERATING, ESPECIALLY ON HILLS. THOUGH IT CAME ONCE ON THE INTERSTATE WHEN I WAS JUST SLIGHT BRAKING GOING FROM ~ 70 MPH TO 65 MPH, REQUIRING ME TO DANGEROUSLY PULL OVER ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE INTERSTATE AT NIGHT. I TOOK IT TO THE TOOTHMAN FORD DEALER IN GRAFTON, WV WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR, AND THEY THE FOUND CODE P2107 ABOUT THE THROTTLE ACTUATOR. THEY TOLD ME THAT THE THROTTLE BODY NEEDS REPLACED. I HAD THAT DONE 2 TIMES WITH 2 DIFFERENT THROTTLE BODIES BUT THAT DIDN'T FIX IT. I TOOK IT TO ANOTHER FORD DEALER FOR A 2ND OPINION WHILE IT WAS IN LIMP MODE, AND THEY FOUND A CODE ABOUT A PROBLEM WITH THE THROTTLE BODY CIRCUITRY/WIRING, BUT THEY CHECKED ALL THE WIRING AND COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. ALSO, ONCE WHEN I DID A COLD START AFTER MY CAR WAS PARKED IN THE RAIN ALL DAY, THE CAR WENT STRAIGHT INTO LIMP MODE AS SOON AS I TURNED IT ON.ALSO, ONE TIME IN LIMP MODE I SMELLED GAS BURNING. I TOOK IT TO AN INDEPENDENT SHOP TO DIAGNOSE THE ODOR AND WAS TOLD THE GAS WASN'T GETTING TO ALL THE CYLINDERS. RESTARTING THE CAR TEMPORARILY MADE THE PROBLEMS GO AWAY THESE TIMES TOO.
Dec 05, 2019
SEATS
1 complaint
THE HEATED SEAT MECHANISM STOPPED WORKING ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. A BURN MARK APPEARED ON THE BACK PORTION OF THE SEAT. ACCORDING TO THE FORD DEALER WHERE IN TOOK THE CAR FOR SEAT REPAIR, THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WHICH CAUSED THE BURN. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A FIRE BUT LUCKILY IT WAS NOTICED RIGHT AWAY AND WE TOOK THE CAR IN FOR A COSTLY REPLACEMENT.
Dec 03, 2019
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
MY VEHICLE LEAKS IN WATER AT MULTIPLE SPOTS BUT ONE THAT IS EXTREMELY VISIBLE. THIS HAPPENS DURING HEAVY RAIN AS WELL AS DURING A CAR WASH. THIS HAPPENING IS RUINING MY HEAD LINER AND ALSMOST CERTAIN RUSTING MY VEHICLE.THER ARE HUNDREDS OF REPORTS OF THIS ISSUE THAT IS NOT GETTING ADDRESSED FROM FORD I FILL I HAVE GOTTEN A LEMON OF A VEHICLE WITH IN TURN WOULD ALLOW (LEMON LAW TO TAKE AFFECT).
Nov 09, 2019
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING FAULT ENGINE SERVICE NOW LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON TOOL IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WAS A P1450 PURGE VALVE THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DID THAT AND THE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND WHILE DRIVING IT LOSES ACCELERATION AS IF IT WANTS TO CUT OFF AND THE CAR KEEPS CUTTING OFF WHEN STARTING THE CAR THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE FOR 2 OR MORE MONTHS
Nov 04, 2019
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS AT A CAR WASH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND WENT AIRBORNE. THE VEHICLE CRASHED HEAD ON INTO SOME BUSHES. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD SHOWN SIGNS OF SUDDENLY ACCELERATING PREVIOUSLY WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SPEED UP. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED, BUT WAS CURRENTLY UNDER HER DOCTOR'S CARE AND TAKING SEVERAL PAIN MEDICATIONS. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND BOTH FRONT TIRES WERE FLAT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND WAS BEING INSPECTED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,954.
Nov 01, 2019
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON MY WAY TO PICK CHILD UP FROM DAYCARE AND CAR WOULD NOT MOVE EVEN WHEN GIVING GAS. IT FELT AS IF IT WOULDN'T SHIFT. I TOOK IT TO CAR DEALERSHIP AND THEY ARE SAYING THAT MY TRANSMISSION IS GOING OUT. THIS CAR WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW AND AS ONLY 60,000 MILES IF THAT AND NOW THEY ARE TELLING ME MY TRANSMISSION IS OUT AND IT WILL COST ME $9,500 TO $6,000 I FIND IT FUNNY THAT THEY CALLED A RECALL ON FOCUS FROM THAT YEAR ON ISSUES WITH TRANSMISSION AND NOW MINE IS OUT AND SOME HOW IT IS MY FAULT. IF I WOULD HAVE KNOW THERE WAS ONGING PROBLEM I WOULDN'T HAVE BOUGHT THE CAR I DON'T HAVE THAT KIND OF MONEY THAT WHY I BOUGHT NEW THOUGHT I WOULD BE GETTING DEPENDABLE CARE FOR ME DRIVE MY CHILD AROUND IN. THIS HAPPEN IN TOLEDO, OHIO WHILE DRIVING I HAD TO HAVE CARE TOWED TO CAR LOT WHERE IS CURRENTLY SITTING BECAUSE I CAN NOT AFFORD TO FIX SOMETHING THAT FORD KNOWS IT HAS ISSUE WITH. I DON'T HAVE PROBLEM WITH PAYING FOR SOMETHING THAT IS MY FAULT BUT THIS IS NOT IT ESPECIALLY SINCE I KEEP SEEING AND HEARING THAT PEOPLE ARE HAVING ISSUE WITH FORD ESCAPES AND OTHER FORD PRODUCTS.
Jun 12, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
THIS COMPLAINT IS A FOLLOW-UP TO ONE FILED EARLIER (11181564). THE PROBLEM IS NOW SOLVED THIS WIRE ISSUE IS NOT THE ONE IN THE TSB AND NOT CURRENTLY IN A RECALL. THIS VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 43,000 MILES PRODUCED THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS THE TSB 13-12-12. MOTOR SUDDENLY STALLING, BACKFIRE SOMETIMES, ROUGH RUNNING, LOSS OF POWER, ETC. THE WIRE HARNESS HAD WORN THROUGH THE WRAP AND EVENTUALLY ONE OF THE WIRES IN THE BUNDLE ATOP THE MOTOR MADE INTERMITTENT CONTACT WITH A PART OF THE MOTOR. THIS CAUSED THE PCM TO THROW NUMEROUS CODES AND DISABLE CRITICAL SAFETY SYSTEMS. RANDOM, ERRATIC AND UNPREDICTABLE. WIRE BUNDLE ALIGNED WITH THE FUEL RAIL BEGINS AT THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE MOTOR. AT THE POINT WHERE IT BEGINS UP COME TO THE MOTOR THERE IS A POST (ALUMINUM, TOP, FRONT, DRIVERS' SIDE OF MOTOR). THIS WIRE BUNDLE WAS NOT SUFFICIENTLY PROTECTED FROM CHAFFING. THE REMAINDER OF THE WIRE IS WELL SECURED AND INSULATED BUT THIS POINT IS LITERALLY AND ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. THIS WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND AS THE PROBLEM AS IT WAS SO INTERMITTENT. NOT COVERED UNDER 5/60 WARRANTY AND MY DEALER CHARGED ME $318.00. IN TOTAL I'VE SPENT OVER $600 THE GETTING THIS FIGURED OUT AND RESOLVED. THIS LAST BREAKDOWN PLACED MY FAMILY IN GREAT DANGER AS THERE WAS NO SAFE PLACE TO GET OFF THE ROAD (70 MPH INTERSTATE WITH LITTLE SHOULDER AND MERGING STATE HIGHWAY). THIS WAS THE THIRD TIME HAVING TO TOW THIS VEHICLE FOR THIS. I AM CERTAIN OTHERS WILL EXPERIENCE THIS FAILURE AND I HOPE NO ONE GETS HURT. IN MY CASE IT ALSO DISABLED THE RESTRAINT SYSTEMS AND AIRBAGS WHEN IT OCCURRED.
Mar 05, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN ACCELERATING ON A HIGHWAY (GOING 55 - 60 MPH) VEHICLE ABRUPTLY SHIFTS GEAR AND SLOWS DOWN ON ITS OWN TO THE POINT OF THINKING THE VEHICLE HAS STOPPED. THIS HAPPENED TWICE AND THEN A FEW DAYS LATER, THE VEHICLE STARTED HESITATING TERRIBLY WHERE THE CAR WAS HOPPING DOWN THE ROAD AND WOULD NOT GO OVER 30 MPH. THEN AT A LIGHT IT STALLED OUT COMPLETELY AND I WAS NEARLY HIT. AFTER RESTARTING, THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE BEYOND 30 MPH. HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. DEALERSHIP WAS ABLE TO REPRODUCE THE FOLLOWING DAY WHERE IT HAPPENED THREE TIMES TO THEM. NO CODES PRESENT, BUT A COUPLE HISTORICAL CODES FOR SENSORS. THEY INDICATED THEY WERE UNSURE IF THE SENSORS WERE THE ISSUE, BUT REPLACED. PICKED VEHICLE UP AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED TODAY. THANKFULLY I WAS NOT ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY THIS TIME, BUT THE CALL COMPLETELY STALLED AT LOW SPEED WITH AC ON AND MADE A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT THIS TIME EITHER. HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED AGAIN TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY ARE CURRENTLY UNSURE OF THE ISSUE. I HAVE NO CONFIDENCE THIS WILL BE RESOLVED. THIS ISSUE SEEMS SIMILAR TO OTHER REPORTS AND SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AS IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN. I AM HAPPY TO PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. I WILL BE ESCALATING THIS UNTIL APPROPRIATELY RESOLVED. SEEMS THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL, BASED ON THE VOLUME OF REPORTS.
Feb 09, 2019
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TRANSMISSION MAKES WINING NOISE REAR BRAKES GO AT40000 THOU WHEEL BEARINGS GO AT 55000 MILES TRANS JERKS WHEN YOU SHIFT
Aug 03, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ON DECEMBER 13, 2017 I WAS IN THE PROCESS OF PARKING IN FRONT OF A PLACE OF BUSINESS, THE BUSINESS WAS IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT AND I WAS GOING AT MOST 25 MPH BEFORE STARTING TO PARK. I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND WAS 1/4-1/2 WAY IN THE PARKING PLACE WHEN THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, THE CAR WENT THRU THE PLATE GLASS WINDOW, THANKFULLY NO ONE WAS HURT! THE POLICE WERE CALLED AND AS I WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE I WAS FOUND AT FAULT, CAUSE 'EXCESSIVE SPEED'. THE CAR ACCELERATED SO FAST I DIDN'T HAVE A CHANCE TO REACT. THE TIRES DID NOT TOUCH THE CURB AND SEEMED TO FLY THRU THE AIR. MY VEHICLE WAS TOTALED DUE TO THE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND FRAME. FROM WHAT I HAVE READ IT APPEARS TO BE A THROTTLE ISSUE - STUCK OPEN. I DO HAVE A POLICE REPORT IF NEEDED BUT IT ONLY SAYS I WAS AT FAULT, EXCESSIVE SPEED AND THAT THE BUILDING WAS DAMAGED.
Apr 18, 2018
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD ESCAPE. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR MORE, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL WHISTLING NOISE EMERGING FROM THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. ADDITIONALLY, THERE WAS A 3/8 GAP BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD AND PLASTIC TRIM. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (CROSSROADS FORD OF INDIAN TRAIL, 88 DALE JARRETT BLVD, INDIAN TRAIL, NC 28079) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PERFORMING AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: PAF-14252656-R9Y2C0. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 12,000.
Mar 23, 2018
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
REAR END KNOCKING SOUND AFTER AND DURING BACKING UP, ALSO DURING LOW SPEED. THE ELECTRONIC RADIO, SYNC3, AUDIO SCREEN WILL NOT TURN ON IN MILDLY COLD TEMPERATURES (20F DEGREES).
Jan 07, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
2016 FORD ESCAPE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEVERAL MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ISSUES THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE MANUFACTURER. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE THE VEHICLE THAT WAS AGREED UPON. BUT, PROVIDED ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT WAS NOT CONDUCIVE TO THE CONSUMER'S MEDICAL OR PERSONAL REQUESTS. UPDATED 10/2/2017*JS
Oct 02, 2017
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
CAR SUDDENLY STARTED SHUDDERING AT 45 MPH, LOST ALL POWER, SERVICE ENGINE NOW LIGHT ON, CAR WAS NO RESPONDING TO ANY ACTIONS .
Aug 28, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
CONSTANT SQUEALING NOISE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE BRAKES. THIS PROBLEM WAS ADDRESS TO THE FORD MOTOR PEOPLE. THE CAR TAKEN IN SEVERAL TIME FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THEY COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM...
Aug 10, 2017
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AND THE AWD AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS COME ON AND I GET A MESSAGE THAT THEY ARE DISABLED AND/OR INACTIVE. I TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY GET A CODE. THEY RESET IT AND IT FITS NOT GO BACK ON. OK. A WEEK LATER I'M BACK IN WITH THE SAME WARNING, PLUS I LOST HILL ASSISTANCE. THEY GET THE SAME CODE AND WANT MY VEHICLE TO TRY AND MAKE IT HAPPEN AGAIN, WHY!? THEY PUT 800+MILES ON MY CAT AND SAID NOTHING HAPPEN. YET NOT EVEN TWO DAYS AND I GOT THE AWD AND HILL ASSISTANCE WARNING AGAIN!!! AT THE TIME THESE SENSORS WENT, I WAS ONLY DOING AROUND 5-10 MPH. *TR
Jan 20, 2017
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 60 MPH ON INTERSTATE 95 WHEN THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF WHILE IN MOTION AND I RAN INTO THE BACK OF A 18 WHEELER TRUCK. THANKFULLY I WAS NOT HURT. FORD INSISTS THEY CANNOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. *TR
Dec 07, 2016
STEERING,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70 MPH MY VEHICLE DIED. NO POWER STEERING. VERY DANGEROUS. THE SCREEN SAID 'ENGINE FAULT'. MANAGED TO GET TO THE SHOULDER AND IT RESTARTED RIGHT AWAY. DROVE A LITTLE FURTHER, SAME THING. MANAGED TO GET IT HOME BUT IT DID THIS 4 TIMES OVER THE COURSE OF THE WEEKEND. IT IS AT THE SHOP TODAY BUT THERE ARE NO LIGHTS ON NOW SO I DON'T KNOW IF THEY WILL BE ABLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM.
Sep 19, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
BROUGHT 2016 IN NOVEMBER 2015 AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON AND OFF ON STREETS OR HIGHWAY AND STAYED ON ALWAYS. TRUCK BEEN IN THE SHOP SINCE 3/22/16 TIL 4/13/16 THAN 4/19/16 TIL DATE. REASONS REPLACED COMPUTER PCM, REPAIRED WIRE TWICE, REPLACE CHIPS, REPLACE WIRE AGAIN. MCCARTHY FORD AND REGIONAL MANAGER NOT GOOD WITH FOLLOW UPS OR GOOD FAITH AGREEMENT.
May 02, 2016
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON INTERSTATE 75 NEAR BRADENTON IN FL. 1:00 P.M. PERFECTLY CLEAR & DRY DAY. I WAS HIT FROM BEHIND, SENT MY FORD INTO THE GRASSY MEDIAN, CAR CAME TO A STOP AT A WIRE GUARD RAIL. I DIDN'T HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE. I WAS KNOCKED UNCONSCIOUS, SO I HAVE NO RECALL. THIS HAPPENED NEAR A CONSTRUCTION AREA & ALL I REMEMBER IS TRAFFIC SLOWING, PERHAPS I WAS GOING 45-50 MPH, & IN PROCESS OF SLOWING DOWN. ALTHOUGH THERE WAS EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO LEFT FRONT & SIDE NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MY HEAD/FACE APPARENTLY HIT THE STEERING WHEEL. THEREFORE SEAT BELT RESTRAINTS DID NOT HOLD ME TIGHT TO THE SEAT. I WAS TAKEN TO E.R. - HAD A CONCUSSION, THEY DID LOTS OF TESTS, KEPT ME OVERNIGHT IN ICU, DISCHARGED THE NEXT DAY. ALSO, LATER I WAS TOLD BY AUTO COLLISION COMPANY & INSURANCE INVESTIGATOR THAT THE DRIVER SEAT WAS DAMAGED & HAD APPARENTLY COME LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED.
Mar 28, 2016
Where to Find VIN for Problems Check
To check for problems and complaints on your 2016 FORD Escape, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports
Each character in your 2016 FORD Escape 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2016 FORD Escape Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2016 FORD Escape dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
2
Review by Component
Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.
3
Check Safety Issues
Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your FORD dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2016 FORD Escape have?
The 2016 FORD Escape currently has 909 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2016 FORD Escape?
The most common problems reported for the 2016 FORD Escape are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2016 FORD Escape problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2016 FORD Escape comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
How do I report problems with my 2016 FORD Escape?
You can report safety problems with your 2016 FORD Escape directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.
Where can I find my VIN to check problems?
Your 2016 FORD Escape VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
Is the 2016 FORD Escape reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2016 FORD Escape. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.
Other Years - FORD Escape Problems
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
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