Best & Worst Ford Escape Years [To Avoid]

We have ranked every Ford Escape model for every generation to help you avoid picking the worst Ford Escape year.

Throughout this guide, I’ll highlight the best and most reliable years of Ford Escape, as well as the most unreliable.

Several credible sources, including NHTSA , VehicleHistory , and Consumer Reports, are used to support my extensive analysis of Ford Escape reliability, owner satisfaction, and common problems across multiple model years.

You’ll find out which Ford Escape years have transmission problems, why 2013 and 2014 are the worst years to buy a Ford Escape in this article.

We’ll get started as soon as possible.

Ford Escape Generations

Among Ford’s compact SUVs, the Escape was a fuel-efficient, fuel-efficient, and comfortable vehicle.

Here is a table showing the Ford Escape generation by generation from 2001 to the present.

Generational shifts influence the design, technology, safety features, and driving dynamics of vehicles.

Ford Escape Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

Among the factors we consider when ranking and categorizing Ford Escape’s best and worst years are:

• Owners’ reliability reports (surveys)
• An annual breakdown of maintenance costs
• A safety rating
• According to Consumer Reports, it is a reliable source
• Rating of owner satisfaction based on Consumer Reports
• The NHTSA’s recalls, investigations, and complaints
• Ratings on Edmunds by owners
• The JD Power ratings for owners
• Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) ratings for owners
• Ratings on VehicleHistory by owners
• Ratings on Cars.com from owners

As a result of the compiled data, I have classified the Ford Escape model years as best, neutral, and worst.

During the “Neutral Years”, there may be a balanced mix of positives and manageables.

A recall by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration negatively affects our evaluations: complaints, recalls, and reliability issues correlate negatively with owner satisfaction.

The best, neutral, and worst years of Ford Escape are listed below.

Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 4th Generation [2020 to 2023]

There will be a new generation of Ford Escape by 2020, featuring technological advancements, enhanced aesthetics, and more powertrain options.

2020 is the worst year to buy a Ford Escape due to the high number of recalls. The Ford Escape is having its best year in its generation in 2023.

2023 is one of the best years

Based on J.D Power and Cars.com ratings, Ford Escape 2023 is the best year of this generation.

There are a variety of powertrain options on offer for this model year, including a 1.5L EcoBoost, a 2.0L EcoBoost, and a hybrid variant.

With its new plug-in hybrid, Ford takes a significant step forward in its electrification journey. The EPA estimates that the car can drive 37 miles on electric power alone.

Among the highlights of the 2023 Escape are its sleek design, user-friendly technology, and competent handling.

In addition to pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot information, and lane keep assist, Ford Co-Pilot360 offers a number of advanced safety features.

2021 is the Neutral Year

This year’s Ford Escape was a harmonious iteration in terms of technology and safety, showing advances but not completely avoiding potential problems.

Consumers expressed concerns about the vehicle’s build quality and reliability after learning about the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control and voice-activated navigation system.

A recall in the past raised concerns about its reliability because the rear brake linings were improperly cured.

Despite its ergonomic design, the vehicle offers a variety of powertrain options and moderate reliability.

2020 and 2022 are the worst years

There will be a lot of recalls and low owner ratings for Ford Escapes in 2020 and 2022, according to J.D Power, VehicleHistory, and Consumer Reports.

Several issues have been raised regarding the build quality of the car, specifically the welds on the driver’s side door.

Recalls caused by engine problems, cracked fuel injectors, oil leaks, malfunctioning rear view cameras, as well as malfunctioning displays and start-stop problems further undermined the company’s reputation.

Ford Escape 2022 had a few notable issues. Its overall reputation was clouded by a number of recalls, including the possibility of misaligned rear view cameras impairing rear visibility, as well as improperly tempered rear brake caliper pistons impairing brake performance.

Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 3rd Generation [2013 to 2019]

With its sleeker, more modern appearance, the Ford Escape has replaced its traditional SUV looks from 2013 to 2019.

Among Ford Escapes of this generation, 2016 has been the best and most reliable year, followed by 2018, and then 2019. Owning a Ford Escape means you can’t avoid 2013 and 2014.

2016-2018, 2019 are the best years

VehicleHistory , Cars.com , and JD Power give the Ford Escape third generation years 2016, 2018, and 2019 outstanding ratings.

The 2016 Ford Escape was available with three engine options: a 2.5L I4, a turbocharged 1.6L EcoBoost I4, and a more powerful turbocharged 2.0L I4.

With a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 2016 model can achieve 22 city mpg and 31 highway mpg despite its 1.6L engine.

The car also features the high-rated SYNC 3 infotainment system, which replaces the previous MyFord Touch system and provides a more intuitive user interface.

The Ford Escape 2018 and 2019 feature EcoBoost technology for maximum efficiency and performance.

As well as adaptive cruise control, there was a forward-collision warning with brake support.

2015 and 2017 were neutral years

Escape models from 2015 and 2017 offered a wide range of commendable features, but they also had their share of owner complaints.

Its powerful engines and aggressive handling were praised, but its slow response time and complex MyFord Touch infotainment system were criticized.

As well as body and interior issues, recalls have been issued for malfunctioning door latches.

In order to address some of these concerns, Ford Escape 2017 comes with a new 1.5L turbo-4 engine and a more user-friendly SYNC 3 system.

It has been reported that some vehicle owners were unhappy with the power equipment and air conditioning systems.

2013 and 2014 were the worst years

Are there any Ford Escape model years to avoid? 2013 and 2014 Ford Escape owners should stay away from them like the plague for the following reasons:

Does the Ford Escape have a good chance of doing well in 2013? That’s for sure. As a result of significant engine problems, the birth of the third generation in 2013 was not without its challenges.

Oil leaks and potential fire hazards are caused by leaking coolant in the engine cylinder head.

Consequently, the NHTSA received more than a thousand complaints from owners and an extensive recall was implemented to mitigate the pronounced risk.

Several recalls regarding faulty door latches and wiring splices further tarnished this model’s reputation.

For the 2014 Ford Escape, a number of recalls were issued regarding seat belt pretensioners and airbags, which could lead to injury in the event of a collision.

It has been reported that some owners have experienced transmission failures and electrical system issues.

Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 2nd Generation [2008 to 2012]

In the second generation Ford Escape (2008-2012), quality of the interior, technology features, and driving dynamics have been improved.

There is no better year to purchase a Ford Escape than 2012, whereas you should avoid a Ford Escape from 2008, 2009, 2010, or 2011.

2012 was one of the best years

Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction ratings are both high in 2012, despite fewer NHTSA owner complaints and recalls than in previous years.

Several engine choices were available for the 2012 Ford Escape, including a 2.5L Duratec 25 I4 that delivered 171 horsepower, a 3.0L V6 that delivered 240 horsepower, and a hybrid that combined a 2.5L I4 with an electric motor to produce 155 horsepower.

The vehicle was available with either a manual 5-speed transmission or an automatic 6-speed transmission, allowing it to achieve a fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Base models are the XLS and XLT, while mid-grade trims are the XLT and Limited. For the hybrid model, there were two trim levels: base and limited.

2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 were the worst years

During the worst years of the generation, there were an increase in complaints from owners to the NHTSA, so the best course of action is to avoid buying cars from those years.

Before the 2008 Ford Escape was released, there were numerous problems, particularly with the power steering system, which several Ford Escape owners cited as the cause of unanticipated steering assistance loss.

Between 2008 and 2011 a large recall targeted this widespread issue and highlighted the potential safety risks associated with unexpected increases in steering effort.

Similarly to its predecessor, the 2009 Ford Escape experienced stalling, transmission problems, and erratic throttle response.

There were similar problems with the 2010 and 2011 Ford Escape models. The fuel delivery modules in 3.0L engines have been recalled due to potential cracks, which could lead to fuel leaks and consequent safety risks.

Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 1st Generation [2001 to 2007]

Ford introduced the Escape in 2001 as an off-road capable, urban maneuverable, and practical compact SUV.

There are substantial reliability issues with Ford Escape models from 2001-2006, while 2007 is the best year for this generation.

2007 was one of the best years

Ford Escape had fewer recalls and owner complaints to NHTSA in 2007 despite transmission and engine problems with earlier models.

Fuel economy for the 2007 Ford Escape is 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway with a 2.3L Duratec 23 I4 or a 3.0L Duratec 30 V6 mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual transmission.

Ford offered its Intelligent 4WD System, which improved traction and stability, along with the XLS, XLT, and Limited models.

While its reliability has improved, specific issues with transmissions and powertrains have emerged.

2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2004, 2006 were the worst years

Ford Escape models produced in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 are the worst of the generation. The number of owner-reported complaints each year exceeds 1000.

2001 Ford Escapes suffered from numerous mechanical and safety issues, including engine stalling and transmission failures, exacerbated by a variety of recalls concerning different parts of the vehicle, including fuel line leaks and master cylinder brake fluid leaks.

Sticky throttles were among the most dangerous recalls, posing serious safety risks.

Ford Escape 2002 also had similar problems. The ABS control module wiring harness is compromised, resulting in possible fire incidents in the engine compartment.

The 2003 Ford Escape was affected by corrosion in the subframe from 2004 to 2006.

Common Issues with Ford Escape 

There are a few things to look out for when purchasing a Ford Escape. Furthermore, you’ll be able to identify what your risks are when you choose a Ford Escape when you follow these tips. The following issues may occur to Ford Escape owners: 

Issues with the Brakes

Some models have been reported to have noisy brakes, especially in 2016 and 2017. The brake squeal on some Ford models was so severe that Ford began replacing worn-out parts or the whole system. The issue, however, spanned several years, so it deserves to be remembered. 

Transmission Failure

The Ford Escape is commonly reported to have this issue, as we noted above. In severe cases, the vehicle stops working suddenly without warning or previous symptoms. There is a $4000 repair cost for that particular problem, which is not affordable for everyone.

Engine Fires

Some vehicles were recalled because of engine problems in 2012 and 2013. In some severe cases, the engine caught fire while being driven as well as being defective. Since then, no further report of this major problem has been made, despite a widespread recall. 

Ignition Misfires

There were complaints of ignition misfires in Ford Escape models from 2001 to 2013. When the ignition malfunctions, the engine will lose power and suffer fuel economy losses. The ignition coils in the Escape SUV went bad, causing ignition misfires – you need to replace them as soon as possible to prevent long-term engine damage.

Power Steering Loss

The power steering of Ford Escapes has been reported to be lost numerous times between 2008 and 2011. Therefore, the NHTSA was forced to investigate the issue. As a result of flawed designs of the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), Ford discovered that its Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) was incapable of detecting drivers’ inputs.

At lower speeds, steering became too difficult, forcing people to compensate fully. There is a possibility that some drivers could briefly lose control of their vehicles while traveling at highway speeds due to the defect.

Is the Ford Escape worth buying?

While some Ford Escape models are less reliable, such as those with problem transmissions, power steering, noisy brakes, and failing engines, many others are reliable and less likely to frustrate owners. Ford Escape has a lot of great features.

Read: Best & Worst Toyota Tacoma Years
Read: Best & Worst Toyota RAV4 Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda Pilot Years
Read: Best & Worst Honda CR-V Years

FAQs: Ford Escape Years to Avoid

Conclusion

Based on our analysis of the Ford Escape’s journey, we recommend it. Currently, Ford Escape is available in four different model years: 2007, 2012, 2018, and 2019. Due to their robust reliability and minimal problems, these are the best years for the Ford Escape.

Can you tell me what makes this particular Ford Escape so special?

Feel free to comment with your thoughts!

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