Power Train Problems of Ford Escape - part 2

Transmission axle was leaking 2020 and it was repaired two times that I paid for. It started leaking again a few months ago we took it in and discovered that it's a bearing or bushing which was a known issue for Ford Escape and their suggesting rebuild or replace. That the leaking that we had the seal replaced couldn't stop the internal damage that it would still leak because the transmission is faulty and has a known issue with either bearings or bushings.

See all problems of the 2010 Ford Escape 🔎.

Vehicle keeps slipping in and out of lower gears.

See all problems of the 2014 Ford Escape 🔎.

1. The transmission has continuously slipped and stuck in gears when significantly outside of standard rpm:speed standards for the vehicle. 2. The vehicle has recently started leaking oil via a lower pressure valve. 3. The engine thermostat and/or sensor need to be replaced with faulty internal temperatures being registered. 4. The rear collision warning and camera system started malfunctioning after an update that happened middle of 2024. The camera won't work at all approximately 50% of the time. 5. The brake issues haven't been fully diagnosed, but I'm aware of the model year/series of vehicle having several faulty components that could have a hand in the weakened braking. 6. I recently had aaa come diagnose the vehicle (reference the photos provided). My objective is to have my vehicle included in the widespread recalls that were released for my car model, year, and overall series. For some reason my VIN in registering as a vehicle that qualifies for the recalls but seems to have the exact same issues. I'm more than happy to take part in an investigation and or third-party inspection to expedite the process as well. I've also included the reports I've found when searching for the 2014 Ford Escape recall/repair list (via your website and others).

The contact called on behalf of her father who owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon her father starting the vehicle, the transmission failed to shift into drive, with the “service vehicle soon” warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission assembly was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

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I am reaching out regarding a serious issue with my 2017 Ford Escape se awd (VIN: [xxx] ). The vehicle has developed a coolant leak that appears to be internal, which has led to concerns about engine performance and potential long-term damage. After researching this issue, I discovered that coolant intrusion into the cylinders is a known and widespread problem affecting this model and engine type. Many owners have reported similar failures, and I understand that this defect has led to class action lawsuits and service bulletins in the past. Given the safety and reliability concerns involved—especially the risk of engine overheating and failure—I respectfully request that this issue be addressed under any applicable recall, customer satisfaction program, or warranty extension related to engine coolant leaks. Please advise on the next steps for inspection and repair authorization. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2017 Ford Escape 🔎.

Transmission shredded internally after piston blew.

See all problems of the 2020 Ford Escape 🔎.

Driveshaft carrier bearing trashed.

See all problems of the 2019 Ford Escape 🔎.

I am reporting a serious transmission failure in my 2019 Ford Escape sel with only 86,000 miles. The vehicle began exhibiting signs of transmission malfunction, including whining noises and delayed acceleration. Upon inspection, the mechanic found metal shavings in the transmission fluid and reported that the front pump had completely failed. This issue aligns with the widespread problems detailed in the [xxx] et al. V. Ford motor company class action lawsuit concerning premature transmission failures in Ford vehicles. The estimated cost to repair my vehicle is nearly $8,700, which is unreasonable for a vehicle with such relatively low mileage. I am concerned about the safety implications of this failure, especially if the vehicle had lost power while driving. I believe this issue is part of a broader, known defect and should be investigated further. I have documentation to support my case and am happy to provide repair estimates or service records upon request. I reside in virginia and would like this complaint to be recorded as part of your investigation into transmission-related issues on 2019 Ford Escapes. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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.

Awd fault.

Turn on vehicle dashboard lights up where my awd not working, my collision assist not working, trac not working, drive mode not working. This started about a week ago from end of June. I did find a recall for 2020 Escape ecoboost but my VIN is not on there. I cannot access my drive mode my collision light does not work and I am driving in front wheel.

Transmission failed. Since the transmission failed, I was stuck at an intersection and could not move forward for several moments. The transmission was inspected and repaired by aamco transmission services. There were no warnings. The car had been driven only 38,633 miles. Ford will not reimburse for the repairs, but is aware the repairs were completed.

The contact's husband owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated while her husband was accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle jolted and felt as if it was rear-ended. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended and rolled forward. The driver was able to pull over to the side of the road. The driver turned off and restarted the vehicle, and resumed driving; however, the failure recurred after driving 100 ft. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the failure was related to the transmission, and the driver was informed that it was a common failure. The mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle could not be serviced because the transmission was electric. The contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence; however, the failure recurred increasingly while driving. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the contact received a power train malfunction notification through the mobile app. The vehicle was able to restart but failed to respond while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The dealer determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start but was started after several attempts. The vehicle was taken to loganville Ford (3460 us-78, loganville, GA 30052); where it was diagnosed and determined that the cam seals, the crankshaft sensor and harness, and the timing components needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the engine was previously replaced in 2021, and the fuel pump was replaced in 2023 due to the stalling failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 98,117.

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked and jolted temporarily, and the message "change transmission fluid" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling, the vehicle vibrated and jerked. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the torque converter and the pump for the torque converter had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,500.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 70 mph, the transmission was slipping, and the power train malfunction warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact became aware of fluids leaking underneath the vehicle and accumulating on the rear glass. The contact drove the vehicle to a nearby parking space and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a fractured flex plate, a failed torque converter, a failed front pump, a failed crank shaft and engine failure. The contact was informed that the suggestive repairs would be to replace the flex plate, torque converter and the front pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,500.

See all problems of the 2018 Ford Escape 🔎.

This began may of 2023. I had a 2017 Ford Escape and at 50,000 it had to get a whole new transmission. I have also purchased a new engine for this Escape that has the same issues.

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 55 mph, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled into a gas station and turned off the vehicle. The contact waited for several minutes, and the vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred after driving a short distance. The contact parked the vehicle at the gas station. The vehicle was not yet towed to the residence. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 22v413000 (power train). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 142,000.

See all problems of the 2013 Ford Escape 🔎.

My 2017 Ford Escape has been exhibiting recurring transmission and torque converter-related issues, especially during low-speed driving. The vehicle frequently hesitates when accelerating and experiences sudden reductions in power, creating unsafe driving conditions in traffic and on inclines. These symptoms often occur below 40 mph and are accompanied by a noticeable shudder and jerking sensation. Despite regular maintenance, the drivability continues to deteriorate, resembling the widespread problems other owners have reported. I am submitting this complaint in hopes that Ford will acknowledge and address this serious mechanical defect.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the flex plate 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 failure mileage was approximately 61,000.

Transmission total catastrophic internal failure. Parts of the transmission broke loose internally and came out the side of the bellhousing. Total replacement cost is over $5000 and parts are unavailable due to frequency of issues with these transmissions.

Powertrain suddenly failed with no prior issues displaying red powertrain failure light- car will not move or shift, has high rpms and has loud revving/screeching sound.

Shortly after having new tires installed at the dealership the following warnings displayed: awd fault service required, hill start assist, pre-collision and traccontrol. Mileage was around 10,700, June 2025. Dealer unable to look at until July 2025. Advised that the rdu motor needed replacement. Replacement was completed 7/23/25. The vehicle was 5 months past the powertrain warranty. So out of pocket was over $1,900. Given the low mileage on the vehicle it seems that this should not have happened. Research here and other websites indicate this is a known issue. The dealer indicated the same.

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced because metal fragments were found in the transmission fluid. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified on the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000.

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 35 mph, the vehicle started vibrating, with an abnormal sound coming from under the center of the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and restarted the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who suspected a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

See all problems of the 2015 Ford Escape 🔎.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the engine was running roughly while driving at various speeds. While driving approximately 40-50 mph and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle failed to respond and decelerated instead. The contact was able to continue driving off the highway at a slower speed. The following day while starting the vehicle, there was white smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe. The “wrench” warning light was illuminated, indicating the vehicle needed to be serviced. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure due to a coolant leak in cylinder #2. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was included in NHTSA campaign number: 22v413000 (power train); however, the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and provided a reference number from the dealer for the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

About my 2017 Ford Escape 2021 engine failed and was replaced. 2025 transmission failed. Repairs cost too much! car is now junk. $500 to junk it! body and interior are fine. Ford Escapes as I now understand, are a terrible car from what I have witnessed, read and heard from others. Ford is not right on this car, and I will not buy another Ford. I see there are no recalls on this car but there should have been. Ford knows about the issues with Escapes! this is horrible!.

Blown engine, misfire cylinder 3 coolant leaking into cylinder 3, block cracked. . . Smuttering. Problem has been identified by our mechanic, and Ford has been called for a replacement engine. Check engine light was on.

Without warning my car started not allowing me to go over 40 mph without a very violent jerking under the drivers side floor board. The jerk of the wheel would not allow the car to speed up. And then eventually upon driving my car immediately came to an abrupt stop and would not move forward any farther I was able to get it off to the side of the road of which at that point I was unable to get the car to go into or shift into any gear. It will not shift into park. The only reason my car is standing still now is because of the emergency parking brake, the transmission has gone completely out of my car . My car will not shift into drive neutral or any position. If you attempt to shift it into any position, you get anmy car will not shift into drive neutral or any position. If you attempt to shift it into any position, you get a very loud knocking rattling noise and it will not lock into place. Ford has done a recall for the same situation on many of the vehicles Ford made during that 2017 year. My question is why am I having to deal with this vehicle when Ford knew very well that there were many problems with it. Three years ago I had to deal with an engine block replacement for a new vehicle because Ford had a malfunction when it came to the coolant going into the engine. These are all problems that are not caused by general wear and tear of your customer they are caused by incompetent of putting the car together in the first place. I really expected more from Ford. The first time I drove a Ford Escape I fell in love with it so I want like I’ll regret ever buying this car. This car needs to be completely recalled. I can not afford to pay for a card that is not drivable.

Driving home from work vehicle would not move forward. Had towed to Ford dealership. Told transmission was over heating, requiring a new transmission at a cost $7,400. Purchased the vehicle one year ago from an auto dealership. Was told by the Ford dealership that they see a lot of this happening to this vehicle type.

I discovered, after my Ford ecoboost engine light came on, that my engine needs a total replacement with only 67,000 miles on the engine. I have learned that it was a known design flaw by Ford motor company since 2020, the year I purchased my vehicle slightly used with 20k miles. The engine can overheat, catch fire, or seize up while driving, due to coolant leaking into the piston chambers. I was never sent a recall notice, or warning of any kind from Ford motor company, even though this could cause an accident. I am expected to pay over $10,000 for a new engine that should have been recalled, due to their own design flaws. I see that there are multiple class actions law suits pending over this issue.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed on two occasions, the powertrain warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle on one of the occasions, the message "no hill assist" and another unknown message were displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that an active shutter switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of failure. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.

Power train fault indicator came on indicating that the turbo charger was in an underboost condition. This caused the vehicle to lose power on the highway which could have placed my family in a unsafe condition.

I own a 2017 Ford Escape with the 1. 5l ecoboost engine. The engine began exhibiting symptoms of coolant intrusion into the combustion chamber. A certified Ford dealership confirmed the diagnosis after inspection and advised that the engine needs to be replaced or rebuilt due to this issue. This defect is known and widespread in this engine type and can lead to engine failure while driving, posing a serious safety risk. Although Ford issued a customer satisfaction program (csp 21n12) for this exact problem, my vehicle was just outside the expiration period, and Ford has denied financial assistance, despite this being a documented and recurring defect. There were no warning lights before the engine began running rough and misfiring. The coolant loss was gradual and internal. This issue has been confirmed and documented by a Ford dealership, and I have a case open with Ford corporate. I am filing this complaint because of the safety risks involved with coolant intrusion, the costly repair burden passed to consumers, and Ford’s refusal to support a known defect that could lead to sudden engine failure while driving.