One problem related to differential unit has been reported for the 2017 Ford Escape. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2017 Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the 2017 Escape.
I bought this 2017 Ford Escape se ecoboost 4wd in February, and since then every time I change gears from park to reverse, I hear a rough 'thud' noise from the rear. I only happens when I go in reverse and it never happens while the Escape is in drive while in motion. It happens often hearing a hard knock when going in reverse. Since this is a 4wd Escape, im thinking its coming from the rear differential when the rear wheels are 'kicked' into gear using the rear wheels power to pull it in reverse. It does have 'intelligent 4wd' where when the Escape is driving on normal roads, the front wheels are only active, but then all four wheels are activated when going on rougher roads. I have done research about this and other owners from 2017 with 4wd have been having this problem to an uncertain end not knowing if this is going to damage the Escape in a few years or in a year. . . Basically the Ford Escape I have makes a hard rough thud noise when going into reverse thinking its a defect. I have contacted Ford through their facebook page and they said they did not find any recalls on it, but it is still is a real problem for me and other Ford Escape 4wd owners. Please figure this out. Thank you.