general problems of the 2020 Ford Escape - part 1

2020 Ford Escape is suffering from sudden, uncommanded loss of power, severe engine hesitation and violent stuttering during acceleration and problem is getting worse. Took to our service center to fix and they said the problem is a recall - NHTSA - 25v467 recall 25s76 (engine hesitant acceleration, rough idling, reduced engine power). Called airport Ford in florence, ky. They are saying they can't fix this issue -there is no remedy and that the program has been paused. This condition poses an immediate safety hazard. The unexpected failure of the powertrain to respond during high-demand situations - such as merging onto highways, passing vehicles or making left turns across oncoming traffic - makes me feel very vulnerable to rear-end or side impact crashes. The failure occurs at all speeds but is worse at 10-30 miles per hour. There is a Ford recall on this issue. If the recall is paused - I assume they are no longer trying to find a fix. This is a 2020 car - surely in 6 years the Ford experts should have found a viable fix. In addition to the dealership also talked to Ford consumer hotline and were given the same info as from the dealership. Please help! I love my Fords - I have had Fords all my adult life. Please help us.

When driving, the car will shudder and jolt when shifting gears, particularly from 2nd to 3rd. It will not accelerate properly at times and has almost caused me to be rear ended when merging on highways at highway speeds. This might be tied to the transmission issues that other 2020 Ford Escapes are dealing with.

I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my 2020 Ford Escape, which currently has an unrepaired safety recall involving the fuel injectors. Recall information: manufacturer recall number: 25s76 NHTSA recall number: 25v467 recall date: July 16, 2025 according to the recall notice, a fuel injector may crack and cause fuel to accumulate on top of the engine. The notice states that liquid fuel and/or fuel vapor near hot engine or exhaust components could ignite and cause an under-hood fire. I am very concerned because this recall has remained unrepaired since 2025, and as of September 2026, the remedy is still listed as unavailable. I am also currently experiencing a problem with my vehicle. Whenever I put gas in the vehicle, it has a difficult time starting afterward. The engine struggles to start after refueling, which is concerning to me because there is already an open recall involving the vehicle's fuel system. I understand that I cannot personally determine whether the starting problem is directly related to the recalled fuel injector issue. However, because the vehicle has an open fuel-system safety recall involving a potential fuel leak and fire risk, I believe these symptoms should be documented and investigated. I am concerned about continuing to operate this vehicle while the recall remains unrepaired, especially since the recall warns of the possibility of fuel or fuel vapor accumulating near hot engine components. I am requesting that NHTSA document and investigate my complaint and provide any available guidance regarding this unresolved recall and the symptoms I am experiencing. I would also like my concerns documented regarding the length of time this safety recall has remained without an available permanent repair.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon shifting into drive(d), the vehicle jerked significantly. The contact continued to drive the vehicle despite the failure, which intensified while coming to a stop. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

2020 Ford fusion taken to bessemer Ford dealership July 20 2026 with issues to vehicle sputtering. The vehicle was returned as no problem found on August 15, 2026vehicle ran hot and shut down 140 miles away from home. The vehicle was then towed to huntsville Ford. I was sent a video by the dealership of the coolant being milky brown but have had no contact with them at this time. When I call or text I receive a message stating they will get back with me when they can.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford explorer. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, upon depressing the accelerator the vehicle would not move and an abnormal beeping sound was emitted, no warning lights were illuminated however a warning message was displayed on the instrument panel "place vehicle in park to restart engine". The local dealer was contacted however the vehicle was not diagnosed due to cost. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 101,000.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, upon depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to move, with an abnormal beeping sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated; however, the message "place vehicle in park to restart engine" was displayed. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed due to the cost. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 101,000.

Got recalls notice but the local dealership in st george SC (family Ford) told me they wont do the brake or fuel injector recall until I have issues so I guess until my car catches on fire with my kids in it then they will do something.

Transmission needs to be replaced at 70k miles. In reading other user's stories online and hearing from mechanic, I was told to make a report here in reference to Ford's internal memo (ssm 54939). It would be nice for NHTSA to urge Ford to replace/fix transmissions on the 1. 5l dragon engines on the Escape 2020, etc. Too many widespread safety concerns/issues with a defective engine that they know about yet failed to act.

Vehicle went into low power or limp mode unexpectedly on interstate highway. Vehicle suddenly and unexpectedly slowed and was unable to maintain highway speed.

On Sunday may the 31st, I was driving home from the store, when I smell gas, but was unaware that it was coming from my vehicle, since I was driving behind another vehicle and passed a gas station. I heard a noise and then saw smoke and fire coming from my vehicle in the engine area. I pulled over and exit the vehicle and called 911. The fire destroyed the whole front of the vehicle, including the engine, wheels, windshield, etc. The emergency officials came. After the incident, I contacted my insurance company. Someone then notified me of a recall on my vehicle, that can cause fire (25v467000). I called the Ford motor company. They told me initially to go through my insurance provider, and the insurance provider will deal with them directly. After speaking with my insurance provider again, they told me that, since I only have liability insurance, my vehicle is not covered, and they will not contact Ford. So, I called Ford again, they told me that someone will contact me within 14 days. No one contacted me, so I contacted them today. They told me today that someone will contact me within 15 working days of my reporting the incident. This will be three weeks since the incident and I am greatly inconvenienced (lack of transportation) by this. Now I am forced to wait another week, not knowing if anyone will call, and if I call again, if I would have to wait again. Any assistance would be appreciated. What steps should I take? thank you.

There has been an active recall on this vehicle for around a year for fuel injectors leaking on the top of the engine and potentially causing a fire. Since this is a turbocharged engine, that risk of fire is significant if fuel does leak.

Subject: request for buyback or trade assistance – 2020 Ford Escape se to whom it may concern, I am writing regarding my 2020 Ford Escape equipped with the 1. 5l engine, which is currently subject to multiple open safety recalls. Of particular concern is the active fuel injector recall involving a risk of engine compartment fire. I understand that the current remedy does not fully address the underlying defect and that additional actions may still be pending. In addition, my vehicle is affected by other safety-related recalls, compounding concerns about reliability and safe operation. Given the nature of these issues—specifically the fire risk and the lack of a complete and permanent repair— as well as a history of over 15 recalls on this vehicle, I am increasingly concerned about the safety, usability, and value of my vehicle. This situation has significantly impacted my confidence in operating the vehicle. Based on these circumstances, I am formally requesting that Ford motor company review my case for: • a manufacturer buyback, or • substantial trade assistance toward a new Ford vehicle, or • appropriate goodwill compensation reflecting the ongoing safety concerns and diminished value I would appreciate prompt review by a case manager and a written response outlining Ford’s proposed resolution. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss next steps. Thank you.

There is no incident, yet, just a recall that I have for this vehicle, coming up on a year here soon, for a fuel leak that could cause a fire under the hood while driving, and Ford doesn't seem to think that's urgent enough to get the parts to fix it. What's up with that? safety recall notice, 25s76 NHTSA recall, 25v467.

The car has been jerking and shuddering and losing power when I accelerate. Was told it needs a new transmission.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The contact stated that after shifting to reverse(r), the vehicle failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 81,000.

The contact’s daughter owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 25v467000 (fuel system, gasoline) and 26v123000 (back over prevention); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact stated that while in reverse(r), the back over prevention sensor alarmed the driver that a person or an object was in the rear of the vehicle, even though there was nothing behind the vehicle. While accelerating at various speeds and after being idle, the vehicle jerked abnormally before accelerating. While attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle jerked and failed to immediately start, causing the driver to have to aggressively depress the accelerator pedal for the engine to start. The wrench warning light and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the contact was unable to speak with a representative. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

I am reporting an ineffective remedy for recall 22s21. The vehicle was 'inspected' in 2022, but the original defective part (date code 2020) remains and is now leaking oil onto hot engine components, creating the fire risk the recall was intended to prevent. The dealership (Ford [dealer name]) is refusing to honor the recall and is demanding $500 to address a safety defect. This is a violation of 49 u. S. C. § 30120. The vehicle is exhibiting the exact failure symptoms described in safety recall 22s21 (NHTSA 22v-191): active oil leakage in the engine compartment. While the dealership refuses to perform a 'no-charge' forensic teardown, I have documented a 2020-dated oil separator still on the vehicle despite a 2022 'completion' notice in the Ford oasis system. The presence of oil in the turbocharger is a documented consequential result of high crankcase pressure caused by this failed component.

Turbo failed due to oil lines clogged. Failed again after repair two weeks later on highway almost causing a collision.

The transmission shifting got increasingly rough over time, and then suddenly refused to shift into gear/reverse. The Ford shop told us it was the reverse solenoid, but it ended up requiring a full transmission rebuild. Safety of the car refusing to shift gears led to loss of power several times, unable to accelerate in traffic, until total failure occurred. Problem was inspected by Ford dealership, then repaired by independent service center due to cost. Not inspected by insurance, as it did not result in a collision. Warning lamps did not turn on until total failure occurred. Then lights on gear shift dial blinked, refused to allow us to put the car in gear. Dash lights also indicated "check engine" at that time, but no earlier.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the engine was running rough, and the vehicle unexpectedly decelerated to 25 mph. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with coolant intrusion into the engine, causing the cylinder head to crack. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

My vehicle has been in the shop since December due to the turbocharger needing to be replaced. Through this site I found the fuel injector recall which I had to fight Ford to evaluate. My vehicle had 2 cracked fuel injectors. I have been fighting with Ford that everything I read states that this can damage the turbocharger. I am not sure if this is theright organization to look for help but I need to try.

While driving and idling, strong exhaust fumes enter the cabin, especially when the vehicle is in park or stopped at a traffic light. Air recirculation shuts off by itself and the airflow is very weak even on high settings. Remote start caused the cabin to fill with fumes before entering the vehicle, leading to headache and difficulty breathing within minutes. Symptoms are consistent with carbon monoxide exposure. Cabin and engine air filter is brand new. Just replaced 12/13/2025. Fumes are significantly worse at idle, suggesting an exhaust manifold crack or turbo exhaust leak. This is a serious safety hazard, and I am concerned about carbon monoxide poisoning and risk of losing consciousness while driving. It was so bad I had to have all windows open and the heat off in 30 or below temperature just to breathe. I have a very small child with heart problems and I'm concerned my vehicle is no longer safe to drive.

My car shut down from a new engine block recall or mandate. Has been in the shop for four months with no eta on when it will be done. This is my only way of transportation.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v467000 (fuel system, gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal cracking sound coming from under the hood, and the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. However, it was unclear if the failure was recall-related. The parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000. The VIN was not available.

Nhtsa recall 25v467 was issued in July 2025. It has been over 3 months of constant fear for under-hood fire from possible fuel injector crack. My family's safety has been at risk long enough, this needs a permanent fix please!.

Transmission issues, jerking, stuttering, jumping, rmp jumping, horse power acting up, pulsating.

My 2020 Ford Escape's 2. 0 ecoboost engine suffered a catastrophic head gasket failure at only 83 thousand miles. This occurred on 10/9/2025 and was confirmed via Ford dealership (crossroads Ford- ravena, NY) on 10/13/2025. Prior to 10/9, there were no warning signs or known mechanical issues. The failure happened out of nowhere. In discussing the failure with the Ford service advisor, it was explained that Escape models prior to 2020 have this failure commonly reported, leading to class action lawsuits/coverage from Ford. I am reporting my occurrence so it can be documented in hopes of Ford being held accountable in the future. Such poor product quality can not only endanger the lives of customers but also cause great economic impact to customers and their families.

The contact owns a 2020 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 but was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that after refueling, the vehicle hesitated while attempting to start, with the power train warning light illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v467000 (fuel system, gasoline). The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 18,474.

Head gasket got damaged and there was coolant leakage to the engine. There was white smoke coming out of the exhaust pipes and we did not want to drive the car. So we towed the car to the Ford dealership and they confirmed the issue. Currently they are repairing the car.

"engine stalls on the road after refueling the vehicle", some sort of evap issue, the purge valve leaks and pours so much vapor to cylinder with overwhelming fuel vapors, system can't handle too much fuel at once and shuts down. This happens every time when I refuel, so I started to park the car and leave it to idle every time after refueling, and even so it's rough idle. If I notice this pattern, this issue with the car for a while! I can't think of a scenario where someone on a highway middle of the night, hits the road after refueling, and if it stalls! rough idling is okay, but stalling on the road is a safety issue! please note, there is no cel so far!.

Car has self started in my garage 3 times in the last two weeks, just now it did it again. This is very dangerous, could hurd someone or burn my house down. This needs to be looked into.

On 9/15/2025, my 2020 Ford Escape se began experiencing serious electrical and shift system issues: hard downshifting, “shift system fault” warning, inability to go into park, and failure to shut off without disconnecting the battery. I confirmed a related pcm recall was active and had the vehicle towed to art hill Ford for diagnostic and recall service. The dealership refused to perform the pcm recall, claiming my issue “didn’t match” the symptoms — despite clear electrical failure. Instead, they diagnosed a park pawl solenoid issue without scanning or physically inspecting the vehicle. I was told the issue was resolved, paid ~$1,400, and picked up the vehicle. Within 24 hours, new and dangerous transmission issues arose: harsh downshifting, loss of power, sudden high rpms, and dashboard warnings. I became stranded in the middle of the road and had to have the car towed again. After this second visit, the dealer claimed there were metal shavings in the transmission and now says I need a full transmission replacement (~$10,000). These shavings were not reported during their first transmission disassembly — which is highly suspicious and may indicate the damage was caused during or after their service. Replacing transmission fluid on high-mileage vehicles (mine has ~132,000 miles) is known to be risky and can cause internal failure if not done carefully. My transmission had no mechanical problems prior to this visit. I now believe the dealership’s misdiagnosis, failure to perform the pcm safety recall 1st, and service caused a safety-critical failure that they are refusing to take responsibility for. I am a veteran with a pregnant wife — we depend on this vehicle. Ford corporate has not provided assistance. This situation has left me without transportation and potentially with catastrophic repair costs due to service-related damage.

Powertrain control module failure causing vehicle to lose power and engine to run at 5 to 6 rpms. And transmission not shifting properly. Vehicle is going into limp mode and will also shut down while driving but the engine stays running and the cruise does not shut off. There is not remedy for the recall that I believe is causing these issues. This has been going on for 6 month. This vehicle has been nothing but a problem.

My car hesitates when driving forward from a stop and the rpm's jump up and down. It almost stalls when going up a steep hill. I have to leave it running when filling it up or it is very hard to start and sometimes will stall after starting. Check engine light is on and tire sensor light is on. The sound system doesn't work. Have read online about a lot of people having the same problems with their car.