2023 FORD Escape Problems

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Complaints Reported

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Complaints by Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

12 complaints

The contact owned a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the infotainment center would display a black screen, and while doing so, the radio would continue to play. The contact stated that while driving at different speeds, the trunk would suddenly open, causing the contact to have to pull over and close the trunk in order to continue to drive. The failure occurred 3 times while the vehicle was parked at home. There would be a burning odor emitting from the vehicle intermittently; however, there would be no smoke or indication of where the smell was coming from. While parked at home and unoccupied, the rear window suddenly shattered, and the vehicle caught on fire. The fire department was called and extinguished the fire. The fire department and the insurance company had determined the vehicle would be totaled; however, an official determination had not been provided. A police report was filed. The dealer was informed of the failure. There were no injuries or medical attention needed. There was no damage done to the property. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.

Jan 08, 2026

Fire: 1

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the 12-Volt battery had become inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power while attempting to start the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had to charge the battery several times to start the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the issue was battery-related and was advised to drive the vehicle differently and to obtain a trickle charger for the battery. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 8,000.

Nov 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. The contact stated that the messages "Electrical Power Saver Active" and "Service Charging System Warning" were displayed on the instrument panel. In addition, the contact's husband stated that the vehicle failed to come to a complete stop as intended, and the brake pedal felt firm while being depressed. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer and remained for further investigation. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,338.

Jun 10, 2025

12v battery system failure to keep 12v battery that boots operating system of car charged. This leads to a vehicle that cannot be started or moved unless jump started. This has happened daily, and sometimes multiple times a day, requiring a jump pack to get the car to turn on. This issue has been reproduced and confirmed via multiple revised manufacturer TSBs. This has likely been inspected by the ford dealership that sold the used vehicle to me. Multiple safety warnings appear when the vehicle determines the 12v battery is not sufficiently charged.

May 14, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V954000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was contacted. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact that a second notice would be mailed whenever parts were available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Apr 08, 2025

+ 7 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

8 complaints

For the last 2 weeks After accelerating my engine coolant overheat warning light goes off and i can't accelerate any further until light goes off. Also ford mechanic states there is metal shavings in the coolant that might be causing engine to overheat on top of the sensor issue.

Jun 26, 2025

I was driving home to Aspen, CO from Denver. I was about 44 miles from my home, on the other side of an 11,000 ft mountain pass. As I was passing another vehicle, the car died. The dashboard light said "engine coolant over temperature". The car died as I was pulling back into the right lane. The person behind me swerved around me. I had to have the car towed to a dealer that is 2 1/2 hours from my home. It's been sitting at the Ford Dealership in Salida, CO for 9 days. They keep telling me they will get it in to diagnose the problem but every day it's the same story and they do nothing. After doing online research, that make, model and year vehicle engine issue has been reported by many owners. There was no warning about this issue. It simply died while driving on the highway.

Aug 20, 2024

Upon reaching 60 mph my vehicle displayed overheating messages and cut power to the motor. Vehicle was towed into Ford service on 4/4/24 and remains in the shop. Been told it needs a new top end of the motor with no eta on parts. I was approximately one mile from my home when the incident occurred.

Apr 26, 2024

The car warned of overheating and messaged to service immediately...

Apr 14, 2024

Within a block of my wife pulling out of our apartment complex onto a 55mph highway to travel to work in the morning, the vehicle had several lights on the cluster illuminate and indicated that it was overheating and went into limp mode. She was able to move to the shoulder and call me. The amount of traffic on this highway and the speed in which she lost power made this a very unsafe event. The check engine light had come on and the vehicle indicated maximum engine temperature, service engine soon light illuminated as well as powertrain fault. The vehicle was towed to the selling Ford Dealer and the condition was confirmed and the vehicle still indicated high temp even after sitting overnight. It was diagnosed from a service bulletin as having a faulty head that had manufacturing debris in it which was released into the coolant system and blocked the coolant temperature sensor. Warranty covered parts have been ordered with some being on Backorder. The vehicle is still in the shop awaiting parts and we have been provided a loaner. We have only owned the vehicle three months and 1500 miles when this occurred. Ford declined a buyback request on the vehicle and offered no remedy except warranty repair.

Apr 12, 2024

+ 3 more complaints for this component

POWER TRAIN

6 complaints

The transmission had an internal failure that caused metal fragments to end up in the transmission fluid and caused failure. The vehicle will not drive and required the transmission to be rebuilt

Dec 02, 2025

Purchased the vehicle approximately 45 days ago. Has driven fine with no problems. Randomly had a hard down shift and when I went to leave my destination put the vehicle in reverse and it would not go. The vehicle would not move in drive and when put in neutral it was still not even able to be pushed. Had it towed to the nearest ford dealership, they diagnosed that there were metal shavings in the transmission, stated the vehicle was no longer drive able and recommend a transmission replacement or rebuild. Vehicle only has 80,000 miles.

Nov 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the transmission overheated warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The contact stopped and had the vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle but could not duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred, and the vehicle was taken to another dealer who also was not able to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the transmission failed and was unable to shift into reverse(R) or park(P). The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Mar 27, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure, and the contact was instructed to bring the vehicle in for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.

Mar 24, 2025

a 2023 Ford Escape. while driving at approximately 76 MPH, I observed a warning chime dinging, the power train warning light illuminated, and the low engine coolant message was displayed. I received a notification via the Ford Pass APP stating that "There was a failure with the vehicle and to see the dealer'. I contacted the dealer, and they stated they did not see any warnings. Anytime I exceeded a certain rate of speed it still does this. The first time it happened, it had less than 800 miles on it.

Jul 07, 2024

+ 1 more complaint for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

Rearview Camera Has turned dark....

Jan 28, 2026

I was driving on a very flat highway (no other cars around me) and it sounded like an explosion and glass rained down the back of the car. When I get to my destination, I looked at my roof and the sun roof glass had exploded.

Jan 15, 2026

Sunshade retracted all the way and center roof molding holding it was with double stick tape. Rolled all the back and cannot get it to go back.

Jun 07, 2025

The navigation icon located on the instrument panel is a mirror image of the actual direction icon for roundabouts. If you are to take a right tune from a roundabout the indicator on the instrument panel shows you turning into oncoming traffic and taking a left. It appears to be a mirror image of the icon on the navigation screen. If not paying attention this could be VERY dangerous.

Jan 16, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

3 complaints

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine and the front driver’s side tire. In addition, the instrument panel was occasionally turned off independently. Additionally, during rainy weather driving the brakes were making abnormal sounds. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were occasionally illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer on several occasions and was diagnosed; however, the failure could not be replicated. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Mullinax Ford of Kissimmee (1810 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34744); for a second opinion; however, the failure could not be replicated. The vehicle was also taken to a third local dealer, Tropical Ford (9900 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL 32837); but the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that an unknown material might have intruded into the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

Nov 19, 2024

Engine does not start or crank. It is available for inspection upon request. Pregnant wife and child were left stranded in the cold until I could pick them up. Problem has occurred on three separate occasions: 6/29/23 - No DTCs generated, Ford dealership did not do any work 9/22/23 - No DTCs again, but Ford dealership replaced a module and cleared other codes 1/29/24 - No DTCs. Dealership cleared other codes and informed of Ford SSM 52179 2023 Escape/Corsair - Intermittent No Crank/No Start Condition With Various Lost Communication DTCs Stored In Various Modules And Multiple Illuminated Warning Indicators Displayed In The IPC - Built On Or Before 07-Sep-2023. Dealership explained other customers have had complaints and Ford has no solution and is telling dealerships to return the vehicles to customers. Vehicle has not been inspected by any other party, including manufacturer, other than the dealership. There are messages for "Service AdvanceTrac" and "Park brake limited function, Service required" in the instrument panel each of the three occurrences.

Jan 31, 2024

New 2023 Ford Escape purchased Dec 15, 2023. While accelerating onto expressway- get an error flashing "Engine Coolant Over temperature - service vehicle soon"

Jan 03, 2024

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

i found the brake pedal too high.i was involved in a very low speed crash. i found my right foot caught between the accelerator and break peddle .unable to stop in time. am checking for a video and police report at this time

Jan 26, 2026

Crash: 1

During braking the car experienced what seemed to be a glitch and lost all breaking power. Foot went to the floor and had to press and release multiple times for break power assist to come back. This happened three times within 100 mile drive.

Nov 12, 2025

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

HI, Vehicle is under a second recall for the High Voltage Battery potential fire hazard. The first recall lasted 7 months before a potential fix. The second recall was issued in November with no fix available yet. Received second recall identical to first recall indicating a fire risk with no apparent fix. I have requested Ford buyback the vehicle, but it fell outside the 18 month NYS Lemon Law. They have refused. They have no fix and will not provide a loaner until it is fixed. The original vehicle electric range was between 38 and 40 with a window sticker range of 37. It is now down to around a range of 20 on full charge with an actual driveable of about 16. I have asked both Ford and delivering dealership to replace the High Voltage Battery pack as it has seriously deteriorated. Ford refuses to allow dealer to replace the Battery Pack. The vehicle is basically unusable for it's original intended purpose as a partial electric vehicle. I asked Ford, what am I supposed to do if I am transporting my two grandchildren in the vehicle and it starts on fire. How do I choose which child to get first? No response. These vehicles should be removed from use by Ford and loaner vehicles provided or a full buy back should take place. I only have 11,000 miles on this vehicle and it has been in the shop for more than 30 days for various warranty repairs and multiple recalls. These vehicles are not safe. See pictures attached for factual information from vehicle. I have plenty of detail if you need it. Please help. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Jan 03, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that the RPM was not increasing on the gauge on the instrument cluster. There was no warning illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but became a recurring failure. Additionally, the contact reported several electrical failures. The contact stated that the instrument cluster was blank, and the windows failed to respond while attempting to raise or lower the windows. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission software needed to be re-flashed, and the 12-Volt battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the same dealer. The dealer replaced the 12-Volt battery; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,500.

Apr 02, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Accessory protocol interface module went out screen went dark. No recall on my vin but should be. Problem appeared 12/26/2025 and has been inspected by Peach State Ford.

Jan 02, 2026

Summary of Issues: 1. March 2024 – First Incident: •Warning lights appeared on the dashboard while driving (including ABS and power steering). •Vehicle was taken to Camelback Ford. •Dealership diagnosed a software update failure due to low voltage. •Battery was recharged, software updated, and codes cleared. ⸻ 2. April 6, 2024 – Battery Replacement: •Vehicle continued to experience electrical issues. •Battery was replaced by dealership under warranty. ⸻ 3. June 11, 2024 – Second Incident: •Dashboard warning lights returned. •Dealership again cleared codes, no new repair or replacement performed. •Explanation given was “modern cars have more computers” and that these issues were “normal.” ⸻ 4. July 12, 2024 – Third Incident: •While stopped at a red light, the entire dashboard shut off and restarted on its own. •Engine remained on, but the sudden blackout raised serious safety and reliability concerns. •Vehicle was not moved after the incident. •Dealership advised to return only if issue happens again. ⸻ Ongoing Concern: This vehicle has experienced repeated electrical system failures including instrument cluster blackout and communication errors, despite warranty repairs and a new battery. These intermittent issues pose a potential safety risk, especially if they occur while driving. The lack of a consistent fix raises concerns about the vehicle’s electrical integrity and reliability.

Mar 23, 2025

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at various speeds with the Adaptive Cruise Control Mode engaged, the vehicle failed to respond as needed after another vehicle pulled in front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked and decelerated, and then revved up and accelerated unintendedly until the vehicle was within proximity of the other vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the Lane Keep Assist failed to keep the vehicle within the intended lane while driving, and the vehicle veered to the left unintendedly while the Lane Keep Assist was engaged. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V440000 (Forward Collision Avoidance), which the contact related to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,000.

Jun 26, 2025

After reviewing my owner’s manual on my newly purchased vehicle, I was shocked at how quickly and unexpectedly I was propelled from 75mph to 105mph because of a new-to-me feature on this model. I was surprised and moreover shocked that a system like this is mass-produced and sold worldwide. Seems like the manufacturer should provide proper training materials and not just the dealer telling me to Youtube it. I fear for my life every time I get behind the wheel. If someone unassumingly were to drive this vehicle without becoming accustomed to they ways it operates, I fear of what horrible accidents may result. I wish I could give the car back but the dealership won’t do anything for me. So I felt it necessary to make this report. Hopefully the features on this particular model of a major vehicle manufacturing brand are re-examined. Something just doesn’t seem right with this specific sub-model.

Dec 11, 2023

BACK OVER PREVENTION

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact state while reversing, the back over prevention camera failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the back over prevention camera failed to display images of pedestrians or vehicles. The contact stated that due to the failure, the contact almost struck a pedestrian. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer where a software update was performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was offered a buyback. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

May 28, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the back-over prevention camera screen went to a blue screen. The contact stated that while driving, the camera turned on and the image was shown. The camera was unavailable, and a message to contact the dealer was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camera needed to be reset and the software updated. The vehicle was test-driven. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 10,668.

Jan 24, 2025

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the Adaptive Cruise Control altered the speed after detecting the number on the Minnesota county road sign ending in the number 5. The Adaptive Cruise Control was changed without warning. The vehicle gradually accelerated after the failure. While driving at slow speeds, the speeds spontaneously increased from 30 MPH to 50 MPH. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 19,280.

Apr 30, 2025

See attached document for complaint

Apr 12, 2024

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

2 complaints

On 1/29/24, I drove around town to run errands and on my second stop, I tried starting the car and it would not start, but it went into "accessory mode". I received SEVERAL warnings: Pedestrian Sounder, Memory Recall Failure, Front Collision Sensors, Tractions Control, Check Engine Light, etc. It also stated it would sound an alarm if we tried turning it on again. I sat there for 10 mins and tried turning it on after getting in and out of the car, looking underneath to see if oil or gas was leaking, which nothing was leaking. I kept trying to start the vehicle with no success, still getting the warnings. My spouse arrived after 15 mins and when she opened the hood and wiggled some cables around, we were able to start the car up and it was like it went through a factory reset as the memory for the driver seat went really close to the steering wheel. We called roadside assistance thinking we need to get this towed to a dealership but cancelled it after seeing it would start and my spouse driving it around the grocery parking lot carefully. When we got it to the dealership, it wasn't having those issues and they couldn't do much for it. On 2/10/24, the check engine light came on. We took it to the dealership on 2/12/24 and they told us the PCM malfunctioned. They did a software update on the PCM, which the dealership said has fixed the problem for now. Just worried this is going to happen again and will happen when I'm in a place where maybe my spouse can't come or we are traveling long distance. Prior to this incident, the dash (MPH, Gas level, Oil level, Engine Temp) of the vehicle, which is entirely digital, flickers like there is a short in the wiring somewhere. It doesn't happen every time we drive it, just sometimes (maybe 35% of the time). This was happening shortly after purchasing the vehicle in July 2023. I have a feeling that something relating to the electrical components, battery, chip/software/firmware in the Ford Escape needs to be replaced entirely.

Feb 12, 2024

3 times, either merging on the highway or full throttle, vehicle screams overheat warning with wrench light for a couple of seconds and disappears. No limp mode or smoke at all. And coolant level is at MAX. No clue is this some sort of glitch or engine failure? Vehicles drives amazing and power is great. Maybe it’s a software glitch?

Oct 29, 2023

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

Purchased brand new 11/2023, immediately started with electrical problems 01/2024, also would put car in reverse and car would cut off, was dropped off at service but never given a reason for the issue or a repair. 01/2025 car had acceleration issues, dropped off at service and was given a rental and given car back with no explanation. 6/2025 car went into limp mode and was towed to service where they found shards of metal throughout motor, replaced motor and then started having problems with cab filling with exhaust, was told they had no rental available and could continue to drive the car with my baby in it, then told was just a gasket needed to be replaced, car had same issue immediately, returned back to service where the turbo then needed to be replaced as well as catalytic converter gasket, after repair, called numerous times complaining that car would shift very hard and wouldn’t accelerate while driving or pulling out on an intersection or from a stop light, was told valve body needed to be replaced, then check engine light came on immediately after pickup, returned car and purge valve needed to be replaced, after pickup issue of car not accelerating continued, was told no issue found, car acceleration issues has became worse and now have been told soonest available appointment and rental is 02/12/2026.

Jan 30, 2026

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

My 2023 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid has experienced repeated high-voltage battery safety issues and prolonged loss of intended function. In February 2025, Ford notified me under recall 24S79 that I must immediately stop charging the vehicle due to the risk of internal battery cell short, potential battery thermal venting, and fire. That “do not charge” instruction lasted approximately six months, eliminating the core plug-in hybrid functionality of the vehicle. Ford originally stated the remedy would be available in Q2 2025, but the repair was not completed until late August 2025. The recall documentation stated that an internal battery cell short could cause the “Stop Safely Now” warning and sudden loss of motive power, which presents a serious safety risk while driving, especially when transporting my family. During the “do not charge” period the vehicle’s plug-in hybrid capability was unusable, and Ford acknowledged the risk of fire and loss of power. In November 2025, I received a new high-voltage battery recall 25SC4 (NHTSA 25V789) for the same general hazard category (internal short, potential fire, loss of motive power). The new recall states that no remedy is available at this time. This means the vehicle is again subject to a serious unresolved safety defect involving the same critical system. The repeated battery failures and the absence of a current fix create an ongoing safety concern, and the vehicle cannot be reliably used or sold during this open recall with no remedy. I am requesting NHTSA review the repeated HV battery defects, extended loss of plug-in hybrid functionality, delayed first recall remedy, and the current “no remedy available” condition, and assess whether further investigation or corrective action is needed for these vehicles.

Nov 30, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS

1 complaint

my 2023 ford edge caused burns to the back of my legs. i was unaware until my grandma informed me that something was wrong with my legs. i noticed when i got the car 2 months ago level 3 of the seat warmer was way to hot like i felt it burning. so i only used on setting 1 or 2 and did not feel the burning sensation like when used on 3 but somehow my legs are burned

Oct 11, 2025

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

Sunroof molding roof drip rail. Ford part #LJ6Z5450036A. This part is held on with double stick tape. When it comes loose, it can interfere with the proper operation of the sunroof sunshade or fall into the passenger compartment. Mine has been replaced several times under warranty. Even though it was nearly detached, it did not fall. However, if it had, it has the potential of either damaging the sunshade or creating a driver distraction while driving.

Aug 11, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Campaign 23B56 Description Inspect front door check-arm reinforcement spot welds Next Steps Contact your dealer for next steps. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recall Action Soon Issue Since 03-14-2025 Drivers side seat buckle replacement For More Information Telematics Generated Issue Recall Action Soon Issue Since 11-08-2024 Inspect front door check-arm reinforcement spot welds For More Information

Jul 20, 2025

AIR BAGS,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

Recall Action Soon Issue Since 03-14-2025 Drivers side seat buckle replacement For More Information Telematics Generated Issue Recall Action Soon Issue Since 11-08-2024 Inspect front door check-arm reinforcement spot welds For More Information

Jul 19, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the "Blind Spot Detection System Fault" message was displayed. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the trailer tow wiring harness (Part Number: LX6Z-15A416-B). The contact was informed that the wiring harness was damaged by the heat shield. 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 approximate failure mileage was 9,000.

Mar 14, 2025

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to close the front driver’s side door; however, the door failed to close securely. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

Feb 11, 2025

VISIBILITY,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the front driver's door window would not completely roll up and close. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the front driver's side door window motor, and the vehicle was repaired but failure reoccurred. Additionally, while operating the vehicle, the message "Front Collision Camera Inoperable" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but failure code could not be retrieved, and the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failures, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 13,000.

Jan 30, 2025

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated after the engine overheated and shifted into "LIMP Mode". The contact stated that during the failure, the message "Engine Overheated" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. No further information was available. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 4,200.

Aug 26, 2024

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

At any random time, all sensors fail. Blind spot systems, parking sensors, pre-collision assist, front camera fault, cross traffic system, cruise control, lane assist, auto headlights. Returned to the dealership multiple times, with no resolution. All sensors continue to fail, with no immediate fix available, according to Ford, until the fourth quarter. So, I am left with an unrepairable vehicle to drive in the already dangerous central Texas traffic. The problem has been confirmed at Leif Johnson Ford, 501 E. Koenig, Austin, Tx 78751. Main #512-454-3711, Service #512-454-3767, and reported to Ford Care at 800-392-3673

Aug 23, 2024

STRUCTURE,ENGINE

1 complaint

I've had this thing less than 6 months, I've already had the engine rebuilt with 34 parts a month and a half in and the drivers side rear door handle replaced during this time because it would not open from the outside and only the inside despite being unlocked. All of this occurred at the beginning of May 2024 and it sat for 3 months due to the engine being basically rebuilt with most parts being on backorder. Today the same door is having the same issue, only this time the same exact door won't open neither from the inside or outside, which is a huge safety hazard in my eyes if I got into an accident and had passengers in the backseat. I do have video proof of this too.

Aug 11, 2024

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, he observed a warning chime dinging, the power train warning light illuminated, and the 'low engine coolant' message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The contact's wife received a notification via the Ford Pass APP stating that “There was a failure with the vehicle and to see the dealer”. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine and head gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,900.

May 30, 2024

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

The contact rented a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at about 20 MPH and driving over a railroad track, the hood of the vehicle opened abruptly and struck the windshield. The contact lost visibility and went through an intersection before coming to a complete stop. The contact made the rental company aware and was informed that they could not diagnose the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Apr 22, 2024

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving with the cruise control set to 45 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated to 65 MPH. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer and was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was unknown.

Mar 29, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

Unknown

Jan 30, 2024

Injuries: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

1 complaint

Vehicle has a 1.5L dragon 3 cylinder. When passing vehicles, on 3 occasions it throws codes that says that the engine has an engine overheated issue, service asap, and goes into a limp mode which does not give you any time to get to safety before your speed is dropped below 55 mph. It will not go out of limp mode until you completely shut off the vehicle and wait 5 or so minutes and turn it back on. Even after it stays in a limp mode capacity and does not easily get back up to highway speeds. The certified dealership service department has had my brand new vehicle 7 weeks with no resolution. Car was bought with 16 miles on the odometer, on August 25th, 2023, at 650 ish miles on September 6th it happened the 1st time. The 2nd time was on September 14th, 3rd time September 15th, 4th time was, September 29th. 3 times on a 4 lane highway, 1st time on a 2 lane country highway.

Oct 24, 2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

As I was driving home with about 5 minutes to go, in my brand new (2 week old)2023 Ford Escape, I smelled something burning. I pulled over and saw smoke so I turned off the car and got out. As I got out of the car I looked under and saw fire. I got away from the car and as I did, the fire kept growing and growing from under the hood. The fire went high enough to hit the trees on the side of the roasd. The police and fire department came and were able to put out the fire but not before the car was distroyed. There were no warning lights or any other symtoms of a problem prior to smelling burning. The Ford company has not responded to me from the day my wife spoke to a representative on Monday, October 2nd. The car fire was on Saturday, September 30th. It's been 3 days. My insurance company was going to do an inspection. Ford wants nothing to do with us. We have a police report and a fire report. This clearly was a engine or electrical problem with this car. I was lucy this happened on a small street and not on the highway where pulling over would have been difficult. Lucky I could smell it so I knew to stop. Lucky I didn't have one or both of my toddler grandchildren in the back seat in their car seats! I would never have been able to get them out in time!

Oct 05, 2023

Fire: 1

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

engine light came on took it into dealership. they said it was evap system then fixed it. picked car up in a wednesday by the friday, light came on again. took back into dealership, they didn’t detect any leaks.. said they were going to put in a canister purge solenoid. found out about 23S27.. apparently my vehicle vin doesn’t fall under that recall.. but yet my vehicle has all the signs.

Oct 04, 2023

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

After the vehicle sits idle for about two contiguous days and you open the driver's door, there are not lights on inside or outside. Normally when you open the driver's door, the center dash and console light up as well as the ambient lighting in various areas of the interior. There is no mention of the 'battery deep sleep' anywhere in the online user manual for a non electric vehicle (ICE). Entering a dark interior in the middle of the night creates the potential for a slip and fall accident. Not to mention contact with kees and the dash or the door opening and the side of the head when trying to get situated behind the steering wheel.

Sep 29, 2023

4.4/5.0

71 reviews

Where to Find VIN for Problems Check

To check for problems and complaints on your 2023 FORD Escape, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.

Where to Find VIN Number on 2023 FORD Escape for Problems Lookup - Dashboard, Door Jamb, Engine Bay, Documents

Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports

Each character in your 2023 FORD Escape 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.

2023 FORD Escape VIN Structure for Complaint Verification - WMI, VDS, Check Digit, Model Year, Plant Code

How to Check 2023 FORD Escape Problems in 3 Steps

Locate Your VIN

Find the 17-character VIN on your 2023 FORD Escape dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.

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.

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 2023 FORD Escape have?

The 2023 FORD Escape currently has 67 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 2023 FORD Escape?

The most common problems reported for the 2023 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 2023 FORD Escape problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2023 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 2023 FORD Escape?

You can report safety problems with your 2023 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 2023 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 2023 FORD Escape reliable?

Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2023 FORD Escape. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.