Ask the seller for proof the repair was completed, or run the free VIN check. Recall repairs are done at no cost by a dealer.
Before you buy
- Driver door check weld breaks: about 43% of complaints.
- AWD module failure and warnings: about 1 in 14 complaints.
- Transmission shudder and rough shifting: about 4% of complaints. On a test drive, watch for shudder, jerking or slipping at low and highway speeds, and ask whether the torque converter or transmission software has been serviced.
- Safety: Transmission failure and limp mode (can affect control: 2 of 5 reports), about 2% of complaints.
- Run the free VIN recall check for the 23 recalls to confirm on this model, starting with the body & glass recall (26V117000).
Based on a random sample of 300 of the 1,524 complaints filed with NHTSA for this model, read and summarized with AI. 276 of them describe a failure the owner experienced; the rest (recall notices, parts delays, worries) are left out of these counts. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Known problems
What owners report most often, grouped into named problems. Summaries are written by AI from the complaints; open a problem to read the owners' own words.
Driver door check weld breaks
Owners report the welds, rivets or brackets holding the door check arm and hinges inside the driver's door breaking, causing popping, clunking or grinding noises. The door then may not open fully, close or latch properly, and the window often stops rolling down.
- How common
- 128 of the 300 complaints we read (43%), roughly 650 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Injury risk: 46 of 128 reports; 1 report mentions an injury
- Driver's side door makes a popping and cracking noise; owner found many other owners with the same complaint. · filed Feb 2026
Read the owner's complaint
Drivers side door is popping/cracking. Upon reasearching I found numerous others complaing of the same problem
NHTSA complaint ODI #11719432
- Owner says the dealer marked a door check-arm recall repair complete and replaced the door, but it still doesn't close properly and looks unrepaired. · filed Dec 2025
Read the owner's complaint
My vehicle was subject to Ford Campaign 23B56 (front door check-arm reinforcement spot weld inspection). The dealership marked the campaign as completed and claimed the left front door failed inspection and was replaced. However, the door still does not close properly, and the check-arm area appears unchanged or improperly repaired. I believe the recall repair was not performed correctly or was misrepresented as completed. This is a safety concern because the door does not operate properly. I am requesting investigation of improper recall completion.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11706362
- Driver's door makes a crunching noise from what the owner identifies as the door check bracket, which the selling dealer patched with rivets instead of properly fixing; the window also won't go down. · filed Jul 2025
Read the owner's complaint
My door start making a crunching noise i looked it up on YouTube and learned its called the door check bracket it looks like the dealership i bought it off put rivets in to band aid it up the window won't go down either very upset about this situation as it is my first purchase from a dealership
NHTSA complaint ODI #11671401
AWD module failure and warnings
Owners report AWD, hill start assist, traction control and collision warning features shutting off with warning messages, often traced to a failed AWD module or rear drive unit motor. Some also report losing power while driving.
- How common
- 21 of the 300 complaints we read (7%), roughly 107 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Reduced safety margin: 10 of 21 reports
- AWD failure warning repeatedly appears and disables traction control, hill assist, AWD, and collision detection; owner believes a bad ground in the AWD module is the cause. · filed Sep 2026
Read the owner's complaint
I consistently get an AWD failure warning and then it turns off multiple different safety features of the car, traction control, hill assist, AWD, collision detection etc. I have seen a lot of people complain about the same thing. This is dangerous and ford needs to provide a solution to the bad ground of the AWD module.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11761180
- Dashboard shows at least 10 warning messages saying various systems are unavailable. · filed Jan 2026
Read the owner's complaint
Warning lamps messages says so many things not available dash board crazy with at least 10 messages not working
NHTSA complaint ODI #11708706
- After a recall repair for cracking fuel injectors, multiple warning lights came on and the vehicle lost AWD and power, running roughly with surging RPMs. · filed Dec 2025
Read the owner's complaint
Since the remedy was completed for the last recall for the fuel injectors cracking my Ford Escape 2020 has had many issues resulting in warning lights on in 5 different modules. My escape will not pass NY state inspection and the dealer wants 600$ just to diagnose these issues. I have a powertrain/AWD fault that results in not AWD and vehicle has no power and does not run smoothly. The RPMs jump constantly between 2 and 3. Others warning lights and errors include traction control, tire pressure sensor failure, ABS, electric park fault, and also issues with the power steering. Got an appraisal down by my dealer and was told the escape is only worth $3,000 now. I owe 16,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11702259
Transmission shudder and rough shifting
Owners report the transmission shuddering, jerking, slipping, surging or shifting roughly, with some dealers pointing to the torque converter.
- How common
- 13 of the 300 complaints we read (4%), roughly 66 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 5 of 13 reports
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 22V859000. Check the VIN for it.
Before you buy: On a test drive, watch for shudder, jerking or slipping at low and highway speeds, and ask whether the torque converter or transmission software has been serviced.
- Transmission jerks, shudders, and clunks, and lost power dramatically on the highway, dropping from 70 mph to near stall with a burning smell and flashing wrench light; Ford says this Escape isn't covered by the transmission recall despite matching symptoms. · filed Jul 2026
Read the owner's complaint
I have a 2020 Ford Escape SE That I am having a lot of issues with the transmission. I looked to see what kind of recall is for on it and I'll see there is a lot of complaints related to the transmission and when I called Ford they said mine was not included with the recalls on the transmission although my transmission is also jerking, hard shifting, along with a shuddering, loud clunking when you shift and to reverse or drive, Also my park break has been kicking on by itself and it's done it to me while sitting in traffic, decrease in acceleration (it about got me hit on the highway) as the car could not get gas It would drop dramatically from 70 down to nothing almost on interstate I-75 highway. Also I've had a burning smell coming from the engine. My car is now at the transmission shop and they are trying to figure out what's going on with it I've had it to AutoZone for them to put it on their tester and a lot of transmission codes came up and one of them so happen to bend the clutch solenoid which could be caused by leaking fluids! I called Ford the corporate office that and they said well you're 20 20 Ford Escape It's not the one in the recalls or the will with the transmission issues but yet it is doing the exact same thing as the other ones that are listed!! It has just a little over 100,000 mi on it The car's not driven hard whatsoever. I was not giving much warning about the transmission The little wrench thing came on flashing and then suddenly these things start happening while on the highway, but then did not stay on! I had to drive my car 45 mi at speed about 30 to get it home.. I do use my car once in a while to drive Lyft which now I'm without being able to make some extra money for groceries and whatnot because of this car! Also the one of the recalls that is on this car pertains to the transmission updates and according to Ford they don't have the tool to update it but yet this update could affect the functioning of the transmission.. I was at ris
NHTSA complaint ODI #11748713
- Transmission shudders, slips, and hesitates. · filed Jun 2026
Read the owner's complaint
Transmission shuddering, slipping and or hesitating.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11747567
- Car jerks, shudders, and loses power when accelerating; owner was told it needs a new transmission. · filed Mar 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The car has been jerking and shuddering and losing power when I accelerate. Was told it needs a new transmission.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11723542
Cracked fuel injectors
Owners report misfires, hesitation and hard starts, often after refueling, tied to an open fuel injector recall, with some reporting failed injectors and rough running.
- How common
- 8 of the 300 complaints we read (3%), roughly 41 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Safety impact unclear
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 25V467000, 25V165000. Check the VIN for it.
- Vehicle shuddered while driving and the check engine light came on, tied to an open fuel injector recall awaiting parts. · filed Jun 2026
Read the owner's complaint
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 while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shuddered. The check engine warning light recently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was being diagnosed. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11741272
- Turbocharger needed replacement, and the owner found two cracked fuel injectors under a recall that they believe damaged the turbo; Ford has been resistant to help. · filed Mar 2026
Read the owner's complaint
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.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11723643
- While being refueled, the vehicle failed to start and gave off a strong gasoline odor inside, tied to an open fuel injector recall. · filed Mar 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off and being refueled, and the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact observed a strong gasoline odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11721944
Sunroof shade falls off track
Owners report the panoramic sunroof shade coming off its track and sagging, blocking the rear view, or becoming misaligned so it won't close; a loose trim piece can knock it off.
- How common
- 7 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 36 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Reduced safety margin: 5 of 7 reports
- Sunroof shade became misaligned and won't close, letting extra heat into the cabin; owner says the dealer quoted about $3,000 to fix it. · filed Oct 2025
Read the owner's complaint
In my Ford 2020 Escape Hybrid Titanium AWD car, Sunroof shade got misaligned and not closing anymore, resulting in more heat flowing into the car creating impacts inside. Also, as per others comments and online forums, there is a chance that this shade would fall on the passengers during the drive if not taken care quickly, resulting in injuries in adults and deaths in infants. Reached to a Ford dealership to fix this issue and its costing me close to $3000. As its a design flaw from Ford, I request Ford to do a fix for free of charge or recall and fix it for their customers and address their safety concerns immediately. Appreciate your looking into this matter.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11691796
- Sunroof shade came off its tracks during normal use and hangs loose, blocking the driver's view of the road. · filed Oct 2025
Read the owner's complaint
Moonroof/sunroof shade came off tracks upon normal use (opening) and is loose. The shade falling down impairs visibility of the road.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11691733
- Sunroof sunshade fell off its track and struck the owner on the head while retracting; dealer said the repair isn't covered under warranty. · filed Sep 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The sunshade fell of the tracks due to a malfunction with the slide being hit by the guard piece that is attached by adhesive pads and is sagging. The sunshade fell on our head while trying to retract it when it broke. I did take the vehicle to the dealership and it is not covered by the dealership’s extended warranty. I was quoted for the repair. I have contacted Ford about this issue but have not been contacted back. The vehicle is only 5 years old and has 30k miles on it. No warning of this breaking, I just hit the button to open the shade and it broke.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11689778
Rearview camera failure
Owners report the rearview camera going black or blue, distorting the image, showing while driving forward, or failing in warm weather.
- How common
- 6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 30 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Reduced safety margin: 6 of 6 reports
- Rear view camera shows a blue or black screen or doesn't work at all; dealer says the car isn't covered by the camera recall. · filed Nov 2025
Read the owner's complaint
My rear view camera on my ford escape 2020 either is blue color or black out or doesn’t work at all. It has been like this for a few months . The ford dealership has told me that my vehicle is not part of the recall. So what should I do now? Have had a lot of issues and haven’t owned the car for only a year .
NHTSA complaint ODI #11699450
- Rearview camera image was distorted while backing up; dealer wanted to charge a diagnostic fee and it was never fixed. · filed May 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image was distorted. An unknown dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that a diagnostic testing fee would be charged for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11662506
- The backup camera failed and now shows only black, so the owner can no longer see behind the vehicle while parking; the dealer said other vehicles have the same issue. · filed Jun 2024
Read the owner's complaint
1.) My backup camera has failed, and it is static and then continues today will not display and shows black. I can no longer use it or see out of it for backup purposes. 2.) I use my back up camera everyday as I live in a busy city and use it when parking and to assist me when there is a lot happening with parking on the side of the road and entering and exiting parking spots. 3.) Yes, I had it checked by a ford dealer, and they stated other vehicles were having this issue and it was odd mine had not been recalled. 4.) No my vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than the warranty holder I have as well as the ford dealership. 5.) No everything was working fine and then the next time I turned my vehicle on the backup camera was no longer of use.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11595110
Purge valve failure
Owners report the evaporative emissions purge valve failing, causing trouble starting after refueling, jerking or stalling.
- How common
- 5 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 25 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Safety impact unclear
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 25V467000. Check the VIN for it.
- Vehicle jerked excessively from inadequate fuel delivery, and the owner replaced the canister purge valve twice in a year, amid an open fuel injector recall awaiting parts. · filed Jun 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle at an undisclosed speed, she noted that the vehicle was not receiving adequate fuel to the engine, which caused the vehicle to jerk excessively. The contact also stated that she had to replace the canister purge valve two times within a single year due to this ongoing issue.. 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 local dealer was/was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was/was not made aware of the issue.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11745110
- Dealer identified a faulty fuel vapor purge valve at low mileage; owner believes the repair should be covered under warranty. · filed Apr 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The vehicle has 27,500 miles on it. Based on what the dealership repair group mentioned, there is an issue with Pa. Purge valve. The part # is #FO LX6Z-9D289-SH TUBE ASY - FUEL VAPO. Since the car has such a low mileage, this repair should be covered under the warrantee.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11655017
- A faulty purge valve caused the car to fail to start after refueling; the dealer said it's a common Escape problem and the repair cost $494. · filed Mar 2024
Read the owner's complaint
I stopped to refuel. I turned off the engine. After filling the tank the car would not start. I contacted the service department of my dealer and they knew immediately what the problem was, a faulty purge valve. They said it is a common problem with Escapes. The service department entered my mileage as 53, 308 which was an error as the actual mileage was 33335. The dealer refused to correct this error. The repair cost me $494.00
NHTSA complaint ODI #11577002
Transmission failure and limp mode
Owners report the transmission failing outright, downshifting unexpectedly, refusing to shift into higher gears and entering limp mode, or being damaged by metal shavings.
- How common
- 5 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 25 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Can affect control: 2 of 5 reports
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 20V550000. Check the VIN for it.
- Transmission that was replaced just before purchase failed again three years later, leading the owner to voluntarily surrender the car; the purge valve was also replaced twice. · filed Jun 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The transmission was replaced 2 weeks before I bought it from a ford dealership and 3 yrs later it already needs a new one. I did a voluntary repo because I didn’t have the money to fix it. I also replaced the purge valve twice
NHTSA complaint ODI #11747566
- Transmission failed completely. · filed May 2026
Read the owner's complaint
Transmission went out
NHTSA complaint ODI #11738149
- Transmission won't shift into 6th gear and puts the vehicle into limp mode, making highway driving unsafe; Ford is refusing to cover the repair cost since it's out of warranty. · filed May 2026
Read the owner's complaint
The transmission on my 2020 Ford Escape has an internal fault code and is not shifting into 6th gear. It is an unsafe issue due to it cannot be driven on highways because it throws the vehicle into limp mode. It was diagnosed at a Ford dealership and Ford is refusing to cover the cost to repair their issue since the vehicle is out of warranty. There is a class action suit against Ford for this issue already. I’ve only had this car for a year and a half. I can’t sell the car and I can’t drive the car, but I have to continue to pay on the loan. This is absolutely unacceptable for Ford to have so many Escapes having the same issue but they are doing nothing to make their faulty transmission right.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11736758
Gear shifter stuck in park when hot
Owners report the gear shifter locking in park when the cabin is hot and not shifting until the interior cools.
- How common
- 3 of the 300 complaints we read (1%), roughly 15 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Not a safety issue
- When the gear shifter gets hot from sitting in the sun, it locks in park and won't shift until cooled down; owner has to cool the shifter with the AC to release it. · filed Aug 2026
Read the owner's complaint
When the car sits in the sun and the gear shifter gets hot from the heat, the gear shifter locks up and you cannot get it out of park until it is cooled off. No matter how hard I try to turn the dial, until I completely cool the shifter down it will be stuck in park. I have started having to cover the shifter when I get out of the car to prevent this issue and if I forget, I have to point the air vents down towards the shifter, cover the shifter and the air vents with a jacket and then the ac to max ac for at least 5 minutes. This traps the cool air in with the shifter and helps cool it down so it will release and can shift into any other gear besides park. I have researched this issue and found many other owners of this similar year, make, and model who complain about the issue as well.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11754189
- When the cabin gets too hot, the gear shifter sticks in park and the car won't go into gear until it cools down. · filed Apr 2026
Read the owner's complaint
When the inside of the car gets too hot, you cannot shift the car dial out of park. The engine runs but the car will not go into gear. It happens whenever the car gets too hot. There should be a recall to fix the issue. It is not safe to be stuck sitting in your car unable to move.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11731162
- Gear shifter gets stuck in park on hot days and won't move into gear until the car interior cools down. · filed Apr 2025
Read the owner's complaint
On hot days the gear shift gets stuck in park. The car interior has to cool down before the shifter will turn in to gear.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11656665
Tire pressure sensor failures
Owners report tire pressure warnings and readouts failing, with sensors replaced more than once.
- How common
- 3 of the 300 complaints we read (1%), roughly 15 of all 1,524 on file
- Safety
- Safety impact unclear
- Related recalls
- Owners mention 20V635000. Check the VIN for it.
- TPMS warning and tire-pressure readouts fail intermittently every day; Ford corporate says an existing TPMS recall doesn't cover this vehicle despite the same symptoms. · filed Dec 2025
Read the owner's complaint
I am getting warnings on my dash every day, about TPMS system failure. Sometimes it shows all four tire pressure, sometimes one or two of them will shut off with the warning alarm, sometimes it is all four of them will stop showing. It is intermittent module failure, the sensors in the tire are working. There is a current recall for some of my year/make/model 20S59, but corporate Ford is saying it does not apply to my vehicle. The exact same issue as this recall has happened to my vehicle.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11706743
- TPMS tire pressure sensors keep failing and have already been replaced twice, which concerns the owner especially at highway speed. · filed Sep 2025
Read the owner's complaint
My tire sensors keep going out. I've replace them twice already. It's a concern for my especially traveling at highway speed
NHTSA complaint ODI #11687073
- Low tire pressure fault message appeared while driving; dealer said the TPMS sensor needs replacing, but the manufacturer said the car isn't covered by an existing recall. · filed May 2025
Read the owner's complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the message "Low Tire Pressure Fault" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the TPMS sensor needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V635000(Electrical System, Tires); however, the dealer informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided the same information. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.
NHTSA complaint ODI #11662630
Less common problems (complaints in the sample)
- Turbocharger failure (3)
- Automatic emergency braking not engaging (2)
- Catalytic converter failure (2)
- Coolant loss and overheating (2)
- Driver door not staying shut (2)
- False blind spot alerts (2)
- Parking brake engaging itself (2)
- Power steering assist loss (2)
- Rear differential lockup (2)
- Seat spring poking through cushion (2)
- Sudden loss of power (2)
- Sudden unintended acceleration (2)
- Transmission won't engage reverse (2)
- Turbocharger coolant leak (2)
- Windshield wiper motor failure (2)
- Battery failure (1)
- Brake booster vacuum pump failure (1)
- Cross traffic alert not warning (1)
- Dash display blacking out (1)
- Driver airbag not deploying (1)
- Driver assist systems stop working (1)
- Driver window slow to close (1)
- Engine head gasket failure (1)
- Engine jerking on acceleration (1)
- Engine limp mode (1)
- Engine oil leak (1)
- Engine valve failure (1)
- Exhaust flapper valve failure (1)
- Exhaust fumes entering cabin (1)
- False forward collision warnings (1)
- Fluid leaking onto pedals (1)
- Gateway module failure (1)
- Headliner sagging (1)
- Instrument panel warping (1)
- Key fob not communicating (1)
- Liftgate closing unexpectedly (1)
- Mirror switch failure (1)
- Powertrain module emissions failure (1)
- Rear brake squeal (1)
- Rear door water leak (1)
- Rear noise when reversing (1)
- Rear seat belt monitor fault (1)
- Rear wheel hub failure (1)
- Rear window off track (1)
- Rodent-chewed wiring (1)
- Seat belt buckle failure (1)
- Sensor module warning lights (1)
- Sharp shifter dial edge (1)
- Sharp window switch edge (1)
- Shift system fault warning (1)
- Shifter cable failure (1)
- Shifter knob chrome peeling (1)
- Side airbag not deploying (1)
- Spark plug failure (1)
- Spongy brakes fail to stop (1)
- Steering wheel jerking to side (1)
- Traction control stops working (1)
- Transmission rattle on cold start (1)
- Unexplained vibrating noise (1)
- Vehicle stops while driving (1)
- Wrench warning light (1)
Recalls
Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.
Body & glass recall
Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Structure recall
A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will inspect and reinstall, or replace any missing liftgate hinge covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD6. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 3, 2025.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Brakes recall
Reduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 13, 2025. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V922.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Fuel system recall
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 29, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S76. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S54.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Fuel system recall
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S21.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Electrical system recall
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update, and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S79.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Transmission recall
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will replace the engine long-block in 2023 Escape and Corsair vehicles. For the other vehicles, dealers will update the powertrain control module software. If a connecting rod bearing failure is detected, dealers will replace the engine long-block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S27. This recall expands and replaces recall number 22V-484. Vehicles previously repaired under 22V-484 will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Fuel system recall
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Engine recall
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will modify the under engine shield and active grille shutter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S47.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Electrical system recall
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on July 12, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S33.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Engine recall
An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S21.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Transmission recall
If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the minimum lubricant fill level will be replaced, free of charge. This recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S02.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Electrical system recall
Low tire pressure may lead to poor vehicle handling and a possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the BCM, free of charge. Owners are advised that two key fobs are required for the repair to be completed. The recall began December 1, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S59.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Transmission recall
Missing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may progress to a loss of transmission function. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the start/stop accumulator, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S49.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Airbags recall
In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag modules, free of charge. An interim letter notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed August 3, 2020. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S35.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Safety recall
A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
- Status
- Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
- What to do
- Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Owner complaints by system
Unverified reports owners filed with NHTSA, grouped by the part of the car. Useful for spotting patterns. Open a group to read recent examples.
Engine & powertrain
462
Most reports here involve transmission slipping. Of these, 3 mention a crash, 6 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
These are the failed systems since the recall was being repaired since July 27th 2026. The car is presently still at the dealer today. Sept 18 2026. Sync Screen goes black Instrument cluster goes black. Auto-hold fails Pre-collision emergency assist not available Forward camera not available Drive mode not available Powertrain Control Module fails with error to Ford App Service Engine light on at all times We have all repair times it went back total of 4 times. No replacement vehicles was provided. Here are the additional files in this link there are approximately 16 repair files 3 are Ian pictures below uploaded https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:4e092f62-ba12-4fac-888f-d529227f810a
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11764876 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Electrical & infotainment
114
Most reports here involve software faults. Of these, 1 mention a crash.
Read full complaint
After a dealership diagnostic visit involving my 2020 Ford Escape, I discovered that a connector in the vehicle's Smart Data Link/Gateway area underneath the dashboard had been left disconnected when the vehicle was returned to me. The vehicle had been at Gullo Ford of Conroe on September 9–10, 2026 for an intermittent idle/sputtering concern and a rear-suspension concern. The dealership performed electronic diagnostic work and documented no DTCs. After pickup, I inspected the vehicle and photographed the disconnected connector before reconnecting it. I am concerned that releasing a vehicle with a vehicle-network/diagnostic gateway connection disconnected could affect diagnostic communication, stored fault reporting, or other electronic/network functions. I am submitting this report as a potential safety/electrical-network concern. I am not asking NHTSA to adjudicate my billing dispute with the dealership. Photographs showing the condition as discovered and the dealer service invoice are available.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11763600 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Brakes
33
Most reports here involve loss of braking. Of these, 6 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
I had complete brake failure while driving my vehicle yesterday I had new brakes installed on XXX by Mr tire auto service centersStore Number: #XXX ([XXX]) Invoice Number: XXX Guest ID: XXX Vehicle details: 2020 Ford Escape Titanium. They have deemed that PARTS were defective ( calipers and pads) . This situation ended up okay however if I was on open road I could have killed myself or others. The manufacturer of these parts needs to be flagged. We have requested a detailed list of the parts that were used to do this job and have also reached out to Monro who is their corporate affiliate. We have not heard back from them yet. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11759343 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Steering, suspension & tires
41
Most reports here involve software faults. Of these, 2 mention a crash.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11762391 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Airbags & seat belts
20
Most reports here involve airbags not deploying. Of these, 8 mention a crash, 8 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
A nagging seat belt monitoring fault occurred with this vehicle. After researching this particular problem, I found that it is a well known issue to Ford (over several forums and owners websites), which is caused by a seat belt sensor. This fault comes up as a rear seat belt fault, but it is actually the driver's front seat belt sensor that is the problem. This fault causes the airbags to be turned off which poses a danger to any occupant in the vehicle if it is involved in an accident. This sensor has gone bad in hundreds of vehicle spanning over several different models and years.(this is taken directly from NHTS's metadata) The part number is LJ6Z-7861203-BC (specifically the left/front driver-side buckle end). It is used in the following vehicle models: Ford Escape: Model years 2020–2025 (including Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants). Ford Bronco Sport: Model years 2021–2025. Ford Maverick: Model years 2022–2025 (including Hybrid variants; specifically for units built from February 27, 2024, onwards as a direct replacement for earlier suffixes). Ford Mustang Mach-E: Model years 2021–2023.This part supersedes previous versions LJ6Z-7861203-AA, LJ6Z-7861203-BA, and LJ6Z-7861203-BB. Versions of parts are usually only superseded due to problems with the original part. Did NHTSA seriously never cross reference their own materials?
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11752710 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Structure & body
793
Most reports here involve premature wear. Of these, 9 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V117000 (Visibility); however, the part to perform the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was notified of the issue and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the windshield wipers failed to operate as intended. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11760242 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Other systems
61
Most reports here involve software faults. Of these, 1 mention an injury.
Read full complaint
While I was driving on a highway the ADAS (IPMA) suddenly stopped working creating a dangerous situation as I was using adaptive cruise control at the time. It has never worked since. Ford has told me that there is no software fix and the hardware needs to be replaced at a cost of $1500. Unless I pay that amount I will lack key safety features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11755454 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
How does it compare with other years? The 2020 has 1,524 complaints on file, more than the 2019 (586) and more than the 2021 (343). Of the 16 model years of the Ford Escape we cover, the 2013 has the most (2,748). Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.