Water Pump Problems of Ford Escape - part 1

Ford Escape owners have reported 65 problems related to water pump (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Ford Escape based on all problems reported for the Escape.

1 Water Pump problem of the 2019 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 07/25/2024

At 78,000 miles the water pump went out and turbo blew lodging parts in cylinder 2. Driving down the highway at 70 mph when it happened. Car shut down and was barely able to get it off the roadway. Had to be towed.

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2 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 01/07/2021

Vehicle stalls and bucks at low idle or at a stop. Water pump, timing belt as well as vct solenoids and cam phasers replaced.

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3 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 12/30/2020

I have been having issues with my 2013 Ford Escape 1. 6l � the coolant light service required light indicator has been coming on. I first would fill the coolant reservoir with antifreeze and a month or so later the light would come on again. I would repeat the process. I brought it in to bay state Ford in easton, massachusetts and was informed that my water pump was the cause of the leak. ($1,500). I had them repair it. I got the car back and a month or 2 later the coolant light came on again. I brought it back and they did diagnostics on (compression tests) and informed that there were no leaks and that there might have been air pockets that caused it. I took my car back again and within 1 month the coolant light came back on again. Again, they do diagnostics and said there was no leak and blamed air pockets. I took it back and within 1 to 2 weeks the coolant light came back on again. They look at it again and did the same diagnostics and now tell me that there is an internal leak and that it could be within the engine and wanted my approval to perform more diagnostics at my expense as they were not sure where the leak is coming from internally. This could cost me thousands of dollars as they think it could be the engine. This vehicle is only 7 years old and should not be leaking coolant internally and I already replaced the water pump. They told me my choices are to trade up to a new car or pay for the replacement of engine if indeed that is the issue. This is not fair to me. They are telling me that there is no recall on this vehicle and that I had a 2. 0 engine. (I do not have a 2. 0 engine, I have a 1. 6l engine). Recall number 12v551000 is an engine and engine cooling issue and it sounds that my Ford Escape is part of or should be part of this recall.

4 Water Pump problem of the 2017 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 09/09/2020

My car began losing power , coolant level dropping. No coolant on ground though. Car did not overheat. However I could smell the burning antifreeze while parked, idling and while driving . Ford dealership originally told me they thought coolant was leaking into engine. Then had another technician tell me it's just a water pump leak. I contacted lawyer . As should you. We need to start class action law suit. The problem is coolant getting into engine and all through oil. Contact bad products law please ! I am hoping Ford will do the right thing here and not band aid repair my car. Hopefully no one has to be injured or die before they recall this issue .

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5 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 08/12/2020

My Ford Escape 2013 said it was over heating and it left me on the side of the freeway. Took it to the mechanic and the code turned out to be the temperature sensor misfiring. Sensor was changed, two days later I drove my car and it left me on the side of the freeway due to the same issue again, stated it was the same isssue. Paid for a diagnostic report at Ford and they said nothing was wrong with the vehicle. Ive had the sensor replaced, both thermostats, water pump has been changed, but car keeps saying is the temperature sensor. I did read there was a recal on the Ford Escape 2013 due to the same issue and a system update needs to be done, however Ford does not have any knowledge of it.

6 Water Pump problem of the 2015 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/02/2020

I had thick white smoke coming from my exhaust with 98,xxx miles and my dealership mechanic told me that coolant was getting into my cylinders due to either a blown head gasket or a defect in the water pump design. I had an engine with 18,xxx miles put into my car and 20-30 minutes after driving it, it was smoking again. Now I have to replace the engine again. The engine in my car is the same engine in the 2013 model of my vehicle and the 2013 model got recalled for the same issue.

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7 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/01/2020

Antifreeze disappearing. Had reservoir tank, hoses, clamps, coolant parts leading to air conditioning, no vissable leaks of coolant. Engine light comes on and goes off at random and has for past 4 + years with no resolution. Recently had Ford dealership run a 5 hour pressure test was told, 1) engine losing pressure, 2) #3 cylinder defective, 3) either needs head gasket or possible cracked block, unsure without disassembling engine at cost to myself of at minimum $600. Said some erosion was seen, unsure cause of it. Was recently told in 2014 the water pump was replaced prior to my purchase of car in 03/2014, at Ford dealership where I purchased vehicle. I had no knowledge of this water pump repair until 07/2020. Had I known, I would not have purchased being car "1" year old needing such a vital repair. During one of the pressure tests in 03/2020, a minor oil leak was repaired, valve cover gasket replaced. Contacted Ford manufacturer asked for assistance in repair of defect, case # 27007133 , was told no funding available to assist me with issue. Had auto shield insurance, denied coverage due to requiring engine to be disassembled to determine what the exact problem is? where is it coming from? how did it occur? all at my expense. I have taken excellent care of my vehicle, maintained as required to continue reliability. I believe this vehicle's issue has existed, maybe an underlying issue, since it was manufactured in 02/2013 due to requiring a water pump during 1st year of being manufactured. As I mentioned, the engine light has came on and went off throughout the years. Ive had auto parts use a scanner to determine what the engine light was revealing, however nothing was determined previously. I have service records if needed. Is there any help available for me towards resolving this issue? no vissable coolant leaks, happens when vehicle engine is on. No over heating.

8 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 05/01/2020

In may 2020, engine began overheating when any power was applied and issue would resolve when stopped. Overheating would cause engine protection system to shutdown engine preventing any sort of driving. Coolant low level alarm would actuate despite coolant reservoir being in normal range and coolant pressure showing normal on gauge. After investigation, issue was found to be a leak in the water pump.

9 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 04/26/2020

I purchased my car used in Dec. 2016 with 79,000 miles, and have had consistent problems ever since. In Aug. 2017 (94,888 mileage), I had take the car to the dealership service center because the engine would stall and stop due to high engine temperature - I was consistently adding coolant, probably every few days. The service department found the coolant leak came from the water pump, so they replaced the leaking water pump, as well as the cabin air filter and spark plugs. Then in June 2018, I had a flat tire and couldn't put the spare on because the lug nuts were swollen/warped - took it to the dealership and they had to replace all sets. In sept. 2018 (113,516 mileage), I was driving home, the engine stopped accelerating, and I knew it was the transmission. I had the car towed to the Ford dealership. They had to "replace the torque converter and completely replace the transmission". They also found the half shaft was leaking, so they "replaced the left hand bushing/seal/half shaft because the shaft was scored". In Jan. 2019, I had taken the car to get serviced because within 1 days time, I had 5 light bulbs blow out and needed replacing. Later in the summer 2019, I was having coolant issues again, and took it to the dealership where they told me the coolant sensor was malfunctioning. I did not have that replaced because I said I would keep an eye on the coolant levels. Now, April 2020, my coolant level's are getting low again, and there is a consistent smell of coolant surrounding the vehicle when engine is on. After driving for 20+ minutes, and coming to an idle stop, the car smells like exhaust and coolant mixed, and there is occasional smoke billows from the exhaust pipes. I have looked under the engine and found oil leaks (pics attached), and believe my car matches the NHTSA campaign id number: 12v551000 even though recalls never show up for my VIN.

10 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 03/27/2020

My water pump suddenly died. No warning. I went from low on heating fluid to over heating in about a minute. I keep my car up to date on all services without fail. This is much sooner than it should fail. Plus the fact that Ford charges 4 times more than other cars.

11 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 01/14/2020

Vehicle leaking continued leaking coolant after water pump changed. Dealership removed ignition coils & spark plugs looked with borescope, cylinder #3 had coolant recommended engine replacement. Tore down engine found porous casting on block allowing coolant into engine. This coincides with Fords recall #12v431000 engine and engine cooling and recall#13v58300 engine for other manufactured 2013 Ford Escape models but Ford is not extending recall to this Escape stating it was mfg at a different plant and during a different time than the other Escapes that were recalled. As stated by Ford "overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause cracks that could allow oil to leak potentially resulting in engine compartment fire. Ford needs to include these other Escapes in their recall.

12 Water Pump problem of the 2017 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 12/10/2019

Owner of 2017 Ford Escape and ongoing issues with high temperature engine indicator - low coolant level. Bought car new Feb 2018 and within one year and 8030 miles the car required service for this issue in April 2019. Repairs made to water pump and coolant bypass hose assembly. Now again in Dec 2019 with 14,444 miles, I have the same issue with coolant level below the minimum mark and high temp engine on dash gauge. Added coolant myself and schedule service for Dec 16 2019. The reservoir cap was fitted tightly and there was no indication of a leak when checking the floor of garage or anywhere under the hood. Obviously, there is a problem since the coolant is leaking out and causing high temp of engine which is not normal vehicle operating conditions for a vehicle with 14,444 miles to have this same issue recurring. Recap: 02/23/2019 miles 7009 serviced for vehicle checkup, oil change, tire rotation and multi-point inspection. 04/13/2019 miles 8030 serviced for high temp. Engine indicator and coolant level below minimum mark 12/16/2019 miles 14,444 high temp. Engine indicator and observed coolant level is below minimum mark on coolant reservoir. 12/17/2019 car is schedule for appt to inspect issue with coolant leaking.

13 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 11/09/2019

Earlier in the week I reported the engine stalling issue. I wish to report the coolant leak issue as well. I've had the water pump replaced but coolant is still leaking and has to be topped off regularly. This is on the 1. 6l engine. It sounds like many other owners are experiencing the coolant and engine stalling issues; looking forward to recalls being issued for both problems.

14 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 10/25/2019

My water pump went out and researching this online I have read several other reports that this has been an issue with Ford Escape. There was also a recall in 2013 for the cooling system.

15 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 09/19/2019

I purchased my vehicle in 2013. A year after I had it the low engine coolant light came on. It took a small amount of antifreeze to fill it up. This same thing happened once or twice the following year. Last year it was more frequent. I had it check and was told it needed a water pump. The water pump did not take care of the problem. I'm having to add antifreeze weekly to my car now. I pulled up Ford recalls and saw where Ford Escapes were being recalled with the same problem. I was told at the Ford dealership that mine was not included in that particular recall. If I'm having the same problem why is mine not being recalled?.

16 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 07/06/2019

Steady engine light with occasional off/on - overheating - replaced water pump - engine light still on -- water pump blew, car was running. Car information systems said "pull over and stop !".

17 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 07/04/2019

My car constantly stalls. It stalled periodically but I thought well maybe it's was because of how hot it was outside. But that it's the case. I can be at a light stopped, driving down the street/expressway and it'll start to lose stutter and stall out with only the battery light and oil lamp light coming on. Sometimes itll start right back up others it has it sit and cool down. Even tho my engine isn't reading hot or anything along those lines. Everything reads fine. I've taken to multiple shops and finally just 5 days ago to a Ford dealer who had my car for almost 3 days and all he could say is it looks like I could possibly have a cracked water pump! they need to do something for us with the 1. 6 it seems to be the same exact thing going on with the 2. 0. Today when my car stalled my oil dipstick was smoking.

18 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/11/2019

Our 2013 Ford Escape has developed a coolant leak and oil leak. The coolant leak is from the water pump and the oil leak is unknown at this time. I have seen that there have been issues with this model and Ford has recalled some but ours does not come up under that recall.

19 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/01/2019

Tl the contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at 65 to 70 mph the vehicle shuddered without stalling. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and restarted the vehicle. Additionally, after refueling, several attempts would be needed to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to maus Nissan located at (937 s suncoast blvd, homosassa, FL 34448, (352) 628-4300) to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the water pump needed to be replaced along with a drive belt. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

20 Water Pump problem of the 2014 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 03/28/2019

A week after purchasing 2/21/2017. The Escape starting running hot then it shut down the car acceleration . Took it back because it under the factory warranty, they said the head gasket were blown and leaking coolant into the engine. Mind you it only ran hot for one minute. They repaired it. A year later in February before my birthday 2/26- I say 2/19. The transmission went out, they repaired that. A recall on own coolant valve was fixed by dealer. Now in the beginning of March the water pump and engine problem has come back. If fill this model of 2014 Ford Escape is a lemon and I should be compensated for all my inconvenience. It been nothing but a money drain and the dealership is robbing me. I took it up there to see if they could repair the problem, but they said my warranty has expired. The told me the water pump needed to be fix and it will cost $1,300 and that I have to pay that before the can look at head gasket. To much to pay and there charging a service fee which is ok but the never said anything about a storage fee. I had a trip schedule for dominican republic. She told me they left a message days after but never received it. I asked if they can wave the storage fee and I'll pay the rest but was told they can't do so. I asked to speak with the manager and was told he won't be back until Monday and it Friday. Called corporate they were no help at all. Ford motor company is the worst car company and they do not help there customers. Poor customer service and no solution to a problem that they no this car is known for. I'll be taking legal action in a civil suit against Ford. Thank you for listening and if anyone has a solution please contact me. Thank you. ( I will never think Ford first- your last). They want $160. 00 for storage.

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21 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 03/13/2019

At 73k miles, low coolant light appeared while driving without any visible signs of a leak. Drove to dealership and was told that water pump and heater hose were leaking. The next week the low coolant light came back on so I returned to the dealership and was told that the connection hose to the cylinder head was leaking. After replacing this hose connection, dealership now tells me that leak is coming from cylinder head. This is a fire hazard and should be recalled.

22 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 02/12/2019

I have a 2013 Ford Escape with 73k miles. Last week as I pulled into my driveway, the low coolant light came on when coolant was added it drained out of the water pump onto the driveway. Apparently Ford is the only resource to fix this issue. They also had to replace the timing belt as it had been contaminated. This repair came to $1600. I have also seen many complaints on several on line forums where folks are having the same issue.

23 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 01/22/2019

February 2019 I had my water pump, water gasket, and heater hose replaced by Ford because they found coolant pump and heater hoses were leaking. Before they fixed this issues I would smell a horrible smell when I used my heater. Lately, I have been smelling the same smell from the coolant leaking when I use my heater, this smell gives me headaches every time I drive my car. My check engine light came on December 29th 2020. I had taken it to auto zone to check the codes. They detected the code p26b7 -replace coolant bypass valve and the smell is increasing when I drive my car and use my heater. Now I am going to be out more money for the same issue that looks like to be happening for years now. This is not right!.

24 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 01/15/2019

My 2013 Ford Escape has a coolant leak which resulted in a water pump and hose replacement. This is the same issue that the 2013 1. 6l Ford Escapes had when they were recalled. I have 66,000 miles on my vehicle and I have replaced the water pump and hose because of a coolant leak.

25 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 11/19/2018

While driving low coolant light came on followed by engine over heating warning, to shut down when safe to do so. This happen twice. Each time complete loss of power. I was informed by Ford mechanic loss of power is Fords way of not damaging engine. Highway driving is a surely a life & death situation. First time issue on city street September 14 2015. Repair replace water pump. Second time on highway November 19, 2018. Second repair pending. Big concern is total loss of power to save an engine with little concern for people. Something seriously wrong with this thinking. Another on going issue is vehicle hesitate when accelerating from stop position or while moving. Always have to be sure there is plenty of space, never know when it will happen.

26 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 10/30/2018

Tl the contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that water was leaking from the water pump and the pump was loose and making a loud noise. Also, the vehicle overheated and could not be driven. The vehicle was taken to tomball Ford (22702 tomball pkwy, tomball, TX 77375, (281) 378-3160) and they stated that the vehicle exceeded the 60,000 mile and extended warranties. The dealer also mentioned that the VIN was not included in a recall; therefore, they would not cover the repair cost. The manufacturer also stated that there was no recall on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 80,000.

27 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 09/28/2018

Coolant light and hot engine light came on. Car was completely empty of coolant. Filled it up and within 4 miles, totally empty. Had independent mechanic look at it. Told the water pump shaft literally cracked. No issues prior to this. Reported to Ford said there is nothing wrong and that my VIN was not included in any recall. This is bogus. Car is 5 years old with 55,000 miles. Never had issue with coolant until 2 days ago. No warning whats so ever and went from full coolant to empty within a 3 mile radius. Am I supposed to carry around cooolant with me. Driving 35 miles per hour, lights came on, immediately pulled over. Added coolant car ran normal, then lost all coolant again. Plus in addition, no one can work on this as "special tools are required" how convenient for Ford. More business for them and their service departments.

28 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 09/10/2018

Vehicle coolant warning indicates coolant low. Water pump replaced in 2016 related to this issue. Issue persisted in late 2017/early 2018 where warning frequently indicates coolant low, sometimes accompanied by check engine light. Car serviced and no leaks or issues with engine were identified. September 2018 coolant warning came on and coolant was replaced. While driving, three miles down the road, coolant warning signaled and engine overheating warning signaled immediately thereafter. Car began to shut down as the car was pulled off of the road. Cary crossroads Ford service identified internal leak with coolant leaking into the cylinder head of the engine possibly due to a cracked head or block. Issue requires a full engine replacement.

29 Water Pump problem of the 2014 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 08/15/2018

Coolant leak into cylinder #3 & 4 resulting in necessary engine replacement at 64k miles. Only service issue to date on vehicle was a defective water pump & coolant sensor at just under 60k miles. While driving 'low coolant' light suddenly came on, checked coolant which was very low, filled and took to dealer less than 2 miles away. Vehicle was not included on the last coolant leak recall although very similar issue and built during the same time period at louisville plant.

30 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 07/24/2018

Tl- the contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 45 mph, the vehicle stalled with the coolant warning light illuminated. The contact coasted to the side of the road and turned the vehicle off. Once the contact let the vehicle cool down, the smoke went away. The contact also mentioned that white smoke was detected coming from under the hood. The contact mentioned that this failure occurred multiple time. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was informed that the coolant was dripping on the exhaust which was causing the white smoke and that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage 135992. Dr.

31 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/25/2018

Engine cooling system fails blocking the water pump, when this part locks the serpentine belt breaks and car overheats, creating a lot of problems inside the engine, car can catch fire too, very unsafe vehicle especially for people with kids.

32 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/19/2018

While driving on the highway, screeching noises emitted from car and then instrument cluster showed the message "engine power reduced to lower temps" and after a few minutes "engine over temp, stop safely. " turns our the water pump failed, requiring replacement of pump and belt at 35k miles,.

33 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 06/06/2018

Whilst driving on streets and highways, at least 1 month, me and my wife began noticing 2013 Ford Escape 1. 6 hesitate! and stall, several times on and off streets and highways. Pcm, module is sending incorrect signals, codes read, com needs reprogramming, also coolant system leaks!, may be causing over heating, and fire in engine compartment, water pump went out, Wednesday June 6th 2018, car is now at Ford dealership, for, investigation into recall work. That may have not been performed. Prior to sale to dealership where we purchased it. We would like any updated information about recall repairs performed by fleet?, company that sold it to super auto sales. , including calibration and over heat software to prevent over heating etc. , along with 13 other original recalls that should have already been performed, and some record who recall repairs were performed by etc. Also the driver and passenger seatback recliner mechanism has insufficient strength, becomes loose and leaning while I'm driving on streets and highways, this been since purchased under a year ago pre-owned 100,486 miles on odometer. Also constant smell of strong gas coming from engine compartment, low gas mileage, significant loose of engine coolant, etc. As mentioned prior in my compliant, full line and fuel pump may need service, because of strong gas fumes in and around vehicle. Thanks for your time. This happened over a period of a month till it broke down and we had it towed, we just found out about recall, and wad not told it was needed or had been performed by super auto sales in modesto CA. Dealership we purchased pre owned vehicle is super auto sales 4312 disk rd. Modesto CA. 95356 (209-689-5455),.

34 Water Pump problem of the 2014 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 05/28/2018

Tl- the contact owns a 2014 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the temperature gauge indicated the engine was over heated and the massage "hot temperature" had displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the water pump had leaked and the coolant reservoir had cracked. After repairing the vehicle the engine immediately overheated and it was discovered that the engine cylinder head had also cracked. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the NHTSA recall number 17209000(engine, engine cooling) the contact indicated that the vehicle had experience the same failure listed in the recalls. The failure mileage was 118,346. Jft.

35 Water Pump problem of the 2013 Ford Escape

Failure Date: 05/24/2018

I have to refill coolant every 10-14 days. The coolant indicator light comes on and it is down to the minimum level. The water pump has been replaced and did not fix the problem. There is no visible leak. Several mechanics have looked at the vehicle and cannot find the problem. It started in may, 2018 and has been ongoing since. The water pump was replaced in June, 2018.


Other Common Engine And Engine Cooling related problems of Ford Escape


Safety Ratings of Escape Cars
Fuel Economy of Escape Vehicles
Escape Service Bulletins
Escape Safety Recalls
Escape Defect Investigations