The Ford Escape has had some of the worst engine reliability issues of any compact SUV. The 1.6L EcoBoost (2013-2015) has documented coolant intrusion failures, the 2.0T has similar issues, and the 6F35 transmission is prone to shudder. This is one to research carefully before buying.
The 2013-2015 Escape with the 1.6L EcoBoost is one of the riskiest compact SUVs you can buy - coolant intrusion class action and frequent engine fires. Avoid unless engine has been replaced.
Coolant leaks into the cylinders due to a cracked cylinder head, causing misfires, hydrolock, and engine fires. Multiple recalls and class actions. Ford has replaced thousands of engines.
View P0301 Diagnosis →The 2.0T has a similar but less severe coolant intrusion issue. Symptoms: white smoke, misfires, coolant loss without leaks. Class action settled.
View P0301 Diagnosis →The 6-speed automatic shudders, hesitates, and slips. Fluid flushes help but some require valve body or full rebuild.
View P0700 Diagnosis →Electronic throttle bodies fail, causing stumbling, stalling, and reduced power messages. Common across multiple Ford models.
View P2110 Diagnosis →Electric power steering modules fail, causing intermittent loss of assist. Recall covered some VINs.
Run free diagnosis →Door latches could fail and allow the door to open while driving. Major recall - verify completion on any used Escape from these years.
Run free diagnosis →Run a free AI diagnosis tailored to your exact vehicle. Get the most likely cause and repair estimate in under 30 seconds.
Run a Free Diagnosis on My Escape100% free · No signup needed · Powered by NHTSA + AI
2013-2015 with 1.6L EcoBoost (coolant intrusion fires), 2014-2018 with 2.0T EcoBoost (similar coolant intrusion), 2013-2014 with multiple recalls outstanding
2017-2019 with the 2.5L naturally aspirated (Hybrid years) avoid the coolant intrusion issue. The redesigned 2020+ Escape with the 1.5L EcoBoost has fewer documented issues so far.
On EcoBoost models, plan for $700-1,200/year and significant lifetime risk. Total non-routine over 200K could exceed $10,000 if you encounter coolant intrusion. Naturally aspirated/hybrid versions are far cheaper.
If your Escape is throwing a check engine light, these are the codes most often associated with the problems above. Click any code for full diagnosis steps and typical repair costs.
Be very careful. Skip 2013-2015 with the 1.6L EcoBoost entirely (unless engine has been replaced under warranty). The 2.0T versions also have coolant intrusion risks. The Hybrid and 2020+ redesigned models are safer choices.
The 2020+ redesigned Escape with the 1.5L EcoBoost or the Hybrid powertrain has the cleanest reliability record. Pre-2020, look at Hybrid models with the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine.
Cracked cylinder heads cause coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, leading to misfires, engine damage, and multiple cases of engine fires. Ford issued recalls and replaced many engines under warranty.
A naturally aspirated/hybrid Escape can reach 200,000 miles. EcoBoost models are unpredictable due to coolant intrusion risk - some fail before 100K, others run fine to 200K+.
Yes, especially EcoBoost models. Expect $700-1,200/year average plus significant non-routine repair risk. Hybrids tend to cost less long-term.