Ford Escape research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Escape is a practical compact SUV. The 2011-2012 models are boxy and simple, with a V6 or Hybrid option. The 2013-2019 generation is more car-like with EcoBoost turbo engines; the 2017 refresh added SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2020-2026 generation added a roomy sliding rear seat, a Hybrid rated around 40 mpg and a Plug-in Hybrid with about 37 miles of electric range. Several years have important engine and fuel recalls, so VIN checks matter. Ford ended the Escape after the 2026 model year.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. 2026 is the Escape's final model year; U.S. production ended in December 2025 and the 2026 model was not sold in some CARB states. Verify 2026 trim and powertrain availability against Ford data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Roomy cargo area for the class
Available all wheel drive
Strong 2.0 liter ecoboost option
Hybrid fuel economy 2020 and later
Plug in hybrid electric range 2021 and later
Smartphone integration 2017 and later
Standard automatic emergency braking 2020 and later
Affordable used prices

Things to know before you buy

Engine choice changes by year resolve by VIN
1.6 liter ecoboost recall history 2013 2014
1.5 liter coolant intrusion program 2017 2019
Fuel injector recalls 2020 2024
Hybrid engine recall 2020 2022
2017 and 2023 are refresh years
Escape discontinued after 2026
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2008–2012)

The second-generation Escape (2008-2012 model years; 2011-2012 covered here) kept the boxy, truck-like shape. Engines were a 171-hp 2.5L four-cylinder, a 240-hp 3.0L flex-fuel V6, and the Escape Hybrid (2.5L Atkinson-cycle, about 177 combined hp, eCVT). Most models use a 6-speed automatic, with FWD or AWD.

Buyer takeaway: A budget, simple choice for buyers who want a V6 or an older hybrid; check rust, recall status and, on hybrids, the hybrid system. Newer generations are safer and more efficient.

Generation 3 (2013–2019)

The 2013-2019 Escape is a car-based design shared with the European Kuga. All models use a 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD. Engines: a 168-hp 2.5L (S trim), a 1.6L EcoBoost (2013-2016, about 173-178 hp), a 2.0L EcoBoost (about 231-240 hp, rising to 245 hp for 2017), and a 179-hp 1.5L EcoBoost four (2017-2019). The 2017 refresh added new styling, SYNC 3 and auto start-stop.

Buyer takeaway: 2017-2019 models are the better pick for technology; 2013-2014 1.6L models need careful recall verification, and 2017-2019 1.5L models need a coolant-loss check. The 2.0L EcoBoost suits buyers who want strong acceleration or towing.

Generation 4 (2020–2026)

The 2020-2026 Escape is lower and roomier with a sliding rear seat. Gas models use an 8-speed automatic with a 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder (181 hp; 180 hp from 2023) or a 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD). The Hybrid (200 hp; 192 hp from 2023) and front-drive Plug-in Hybrid (from 2021, about 37 miles EV range) use an eCVT. A 2023 refresh brought new styling, new trims and an available 13.2-inch screen. Production ended December 2025.

Buyer takeaway: The Hybrid is the efficiency pick for most buyers, the Plug-in Hybrid suits short daily commutes with home charging, and the 2.0L suits buyers wanting power. 2023-2026 models have the newer tech; 2020-2022 models need recall verification.

Ford Escape by model year

2026 Ford Escape

The 2026 Escape is the final model year: production at Ford's Louisville plant ended in December 2025 as the plant was retooled for electric vehicles. Powertrains carry over (180-hp 1.5L EcoBoost, 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost, 192-hp Hybrid and the Plug-in Hybrid), but front-drive Hybrid versions were dropped and it was not sold new in some CARB states. Verify 2026 specs against Ford data.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 180 hp 199 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 192 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 210 hp FWD 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Final model year of the escape
US production ended december 2025
Front drive hybrid configurations dropped
Not certified for sale in some carb states

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Large touchscreen and sync 4 operation; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2025 Ford Escape

The 2025 Escape is a light update. Powertrains carry over: a 180-hp 1.5L EcoBoost, a 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD), a 192-hp Hybrid and the Plug-in Hybrid rated about 101 MPGe. Ford dropped the gas Base trim and trimmed some equipment, such as rain-sensing wipers and the Active's standard power driver's seat, so compare features by trim rather than assuming 2024 content.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 180 hp 199 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 192 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 210 hp FWD 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Gas base trim dropped
Black exterior trim updates on active and st line
Some standard features made optional or removed

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Large touchscreen and sync 4 operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2024 Ford Escape

The 2024 Escape carries over the refreshed 2023 design: a 180-hp 1.5L EcoBoost (about 27/34 mpg FWD), a 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost with AWD, a 192-hp Hybrid in FWD or AWD (about 39 mpg combined) and a front-drive Plug-in Hybrid. Some 2023-2024 models were recalled for fuel injectors, so check the VIN. Confirm Plug-in Hybrid availability for this specific year by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 180 hp 199 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 192 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 210 hp FWD 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2023
Fuel injector recall on some 2023 2024 models

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel injector recall status; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Large touchscreen and sync 4 operation; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2023 Ford Escape

The refreshed 2023 Escape has a new nose, a standard digital gauge cluster and an available 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen. Trims became Base, Active, ST-Line (three levels), Platinum and a standalone Plug-in Hybrid. The 1.5L EcoBoost is rated 180 hp and 199 lb-ft, the 2.0L EcoBoost 250 hp (AWD), the Hybrid 192 hp (about 39 mpg combined), and the PHEV about 210 hp with roughly 37 miles of EV range.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 180 hp 199 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 192 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 210 hp FWD 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

New front styling and available light bar
New trims active st line and platinum
Available 13 2 inch touchscreen with sync 4
Standard digital gauge cluster
Hybrid rated 192 hp

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel injector recall status 1.5 liter; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Large touchscreen and sync 4 operation; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2022 Ford Escape

The 2022 Escape is the last year of the original fourth-generation styling and trim names (S, SE, SEL, Titanium). Powertrains carry over: the 181-hp 1.5L EcoBoost, 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost with AWD, the 200-hp Hybrid (about 41 mpg combined FWD) and the Plug-in Hybrid with about 37 miles of electric range. Check 1.5L fuel-injector and hybrid recall work by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 181 hp 190 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 200 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 about 210 hp 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Last year before the 2023 refresh
Last year of s se SEL titanium trims

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel injector and oil separator recall status 1.5 liter; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Hybrid engine and powertrain software recall status; Hybrid system warning lights; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2021 Ford Escape

The 2021 Escape adds the Plug-in Hybrid to U.S. showrooms: a front-drive 2.5L system rated about 37 miles of electric range and about 105 MPGe. The 181-hp 1.5L EcoBoost, 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD) and 200-hp Hybrid continue. Trims run S, SE, SEL and Titanium. The 1.5L fuel-injector and hybrid-engine recalls apply to many 2020-2022 models, so confirm completion by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 181 hp 190 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 200 hp combined; 2.5 liter plug in hybrid I4 about 210 hp 37 mile EV range
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Plug in hybrid reaches US dealers
PHEV rated about 37 miles electric range
Se sport becomes a package

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel injector and oil separator recall status 1.5 liter; Eight speed automatic shift quality; Hybrid engine and powertrain software recall status; Hybrid system warning lights; Plug in charging port and charge cord; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2020 Ford Escape

The 2020 Escape was all-new: lower and more car-like, with a sliding rear seat. Gas models use an 8-speed automatic with a 181-hp 1.5L three-cylinder EcoBoost (about 27/33 mpg FWD) or a 250-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (AWD only). The Hybrid returned with a 200-hp 2.5L system rated about 44/37 mpg FWD. 2020-2022 Escapes have several engine and fuel-system recalls, so check the VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo i3 181 hp 190 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 250 hp AWD only; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 200 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic gas; Electronic CVT hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

All new lower sleeker design
Three cylinder 1.5 liter ecoboost base engine
Hybrid returns after 2012
Eight speed automatic on gas models
Standard co pilot360 automatic emergency braking

2019 Ford Escape

The 2019 Escape is the last of the third generation and the last with the 168-hp 2.5L and the 6-speed automatic. The 179-hp 1.5L EcoBoost and 245-hp 2.0L EcoBoost carry over. It is a familiar, proven design and often cheaper than a 2020, but the 2020 redesign brought a hybrid, more room and standard automatic emergency braking.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo I4 179 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 245 hp 275 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Last year of the third generation
Last year of the 2.5 liter and six speed automatic

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant intrusion and unexplained coolant loss 1.5 liter; White exhaust smoke or cold start misfire; Shifter cable bushing recall status; Auto start stop operation; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2018 Ford Escape

The 2018 Escape carries over the refreshed design, with the SEL trim returning between SE and Titanium. Engines are the 168-hp 2.5L (S), the 179-hp 1.5L EcoBoost (about 23/30 mpg FWD) and the 245-hp 2.0L EcoBoost, all with a 6-speed automatic and available AWD. As with 2017, confirm the 1.5L engine's coolant-intrusion repair history and recall status by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo I4 179 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 245 hp 275 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

SEL trim returns
Largely carryover from 2017

2017 Ford Escape

The refreshed 2017 Escape got new front styling, SYNC 3 infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and new engines: a 179-hp, 177 lb-ft 1.5L EcoBoost replaced the 1.6L, and the 2.0L EcoBoost rose to 245 hp and 275 lb-ft. The 168-hp 2.5L stayed on the S. Ford later ran a program for 1.5L engines with coolant intrusion, so check coolant level and repair history.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.5 liter ecoboost turbo I4 179 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 245 hp 275 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic with available paddle shifters
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

New front styling and revised taillights
1.5 liter ecoboost replaces 1.6 liter
2.0 liter ecoboost rises to 245 hp
Sync 3 infotainment and sync connect app
Auto start stop on ecoboost engines

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant intrusion and unexplained coolant loss 1.5 liter; White exhaust smoke or cold start misfire; Shifter cable bushing recall status; Auto start stop operation; Infotainment and smartphone integration; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2016 Ford Escape

The 2016 Escape is the last year before the 2017 refresh and the last with the 1.6L EcoBoost (about 173-178 hp, about 23/31 mpg FWD). The 168-hp 2.5L (S) and 2.0L EcoBoost (about 231-240 hp) continue with a 6-speed automatic. It uses the older MyFord Touch system rather than SYNC 3, so buyers who want smartphone integration should look at 2017 and later.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.6 liter ecoboost turbo I4 173 to 178 hp; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 231 to 240 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Last year before the 2017 refresh
Last year of the 1.6 liter ecoboost

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant level and unexplained coolant loss; Shifter cable bushing recall status; Six speed automatic shift quality; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2015 Ford Escape

The 2015 Escape is a carryover year of the third generation. The S uses the 168-hp, 170 lb-ft 2.5L four-cylinder, while SE and Titanium models use the 1.6L EcoBoost (about 173-178 hp) or the stronger 2.0L EcoBoost (about 231-240 hp), all with a 6-speed automatic and available AWD. It is a solid value buy if recall work and cooling-system health check out.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp 170 lb ft s trim; 1.6 liter ecoboost turbo I4 173 to 178 hp; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 231 to 240 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
2.5 liter rated at 168 hp and 170 lb ft

2014 Ford Escape

The 2014 Escape carries over the 2013 lineup: a 168-hp 2.5L (S), a 1.6L EcoBoost (about 173-178 hp, roughly 23/32 mpg FWD) and a 2.0L EcoBoost (about 231-240 hp), all with a 6-speed automatic and available AWD. 2014 Escapes were covered by a door-latch recall, and 1.6L models by a recall tied to cylinder-head overheating when coolant is low. Verify all recalls by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.6 liter ecoboost turbo I4 173 to 178 hp; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 231 to 240 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2013
Door latch recall campaign
1.6 liter coolant related recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Engine overheating recall status 1.6 liter; Door latch recall status; Coolant level and unexplained coolant loss; Shifter cable bushing recall status; Six speed automatic shift quality; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2013 Ford Escape

The 2013 Escape was all-new: a sleeker, car-like crossover with a 168-hp 2.5L on the S trim and two EcoBoost turbo engines, a 1.6L (about 173-178 hp) and a 2.0L (about 231-240 hp, depending on fuel), all with a 6-speed automatic. The 1.6L was subject to several 2012-2013 recalls for overheating and fire risk, so confirm every recall is complete. As a first-year design, 2013 had more recalls than later years.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 168 hp s trim; 1.6 liter ecoboost turbo I4 173 to 178 hp; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 231 to 240 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

All new car based design shared with the european kuga
Ecoboost turbo engines introduced
V6 and hybrid dropped
Available hands free power liftgate
Myford touch infotainment

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Engine overheating and fire recall status 1.6 liter; Fuel line recall status; Coolant level and unexplained coolant loss; Shifter cable bushing recall status; Six speed automatic shift quality; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2012 Ford Escape

The 2012 Escape is the final year of the boxy second generation and the last Escape ever offered with a V6 (240 hp, 3.0L). The 171-hp 2.5L four-cylinder is the common choice, and the Escape Hybrid (2.5L, about 177 combined hp, about 34/30 mpg) made its last appearance until 2020. It is simple and roomy for its size but feels dated next to 2013 and later models.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 171 hp; 3.0 liter V6 240 hp flex fuel; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 177 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 5 speed manual 2.5 liter FWD; Electronic CVT hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Last year of the second generation
Last year of the V6 escape
Last escape hybrid until 2020

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Fuel pump recall status V6; Hybrid battery and inverter cooling if hybrid; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2011 Ford Escape

The 2011 Escape is the boxy, truck-like second-generation design. Engines are a 171-hp 2.5L four-cylinder (about 21/27 mpg with the automatic), a 240-hp 3.0L V6 (about 19/25 mpg FWD), or the Escape Hybrid, a 2.5L hybrid with about 177 combined hp rated around 34/30 mpg. Most models use a 6-speed automatic; a 5-speed manual was offered on base FWD four-cylinder models. Check the VIN for open Ford recalls.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 171 hp; 3.0 liter V6 240 hp flex fuel; 2.5 liter hybrid I4 177 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 5 speed manual 2.5 liter FWD; Electronic CVT hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Four wheel drive badged AWD system
Body style: Compact crossover SUV

What changed:

Carryover of the boxy second generation
Escape hybrid still offered in FWD and 4wd
Six speed automatic standard on most models

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Steering torque sensor recall status; Hybrid battery and inverter cooling if hybrid; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

1.6L EcoBoost Overheating and Fire Recalls (2013–2014)
2013-2014 Escapes with the 1.6L EcoBoost were recalled more than once because the engine could overheat. In 2012-2013 recalls, Ford addressed coolant leaks and overheating that could crack the cylinder head and leak oil or fuel, creating a fire risk; a 2017 recall covered 2014 models that could overheat if driven with low coolant. Completed recall work matters more than the model year.
What to do: On a 2013-2014 1.6L Escape, confirm every engine and fuel-system recall is complete and the coolant is full before buying.
1.5L EcoBoost Coolant Intrusion (2017-2019) (2017–2019)
Some 2017-2019 Escapes with the 1.5L EcoBoost four-cylinder developed coolant intrusion into a cylinder, causing low coolant, white exhaust smoke or rough running. Ford offered a one-time short-block repair under a warranty extension (7 years/84,000 miles, with a deadline for older vehicles). Many vehicles may now be outside that coverage.
What to do: Ask whether the engine was repaired under Ford's program, and walk away from unexplained coolant loss.
Shifter Cable Bushing Recall (Rollaway Risk) (2013–2019)
Ford recalled 2013-2019 Escapes because the bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade or detach. The vehicle could then be in a different gear than the shifter shows, including not being in Park, which creates a rollaway risk.
What to do: Confirm the shifter bushing recall is complete before purchase.
2020-2023 1.5L Fuel Injector and Hybrid Engine Recalls (2020–2023)
Several fire-risk recalls cover fourth-generation Escapes: 1.5L EcoBoost models can have fuel injectors that crack and leak fuel (with expansions and re-repairs), some 1.5L engines have an oil separator housing that can crack, and 2020-2022 Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models were recalled because an engine failure could release oil or fuel vapor near hot parts. A separate hybrid software recall addressed unexpected shifts to neutral.
What to do: Confirm all engine, fuel and hybrid-software recalls are complete, including any repeat repairs.
Fourth-Generation Drivability Check (2020–2026)
Fourth-generation gas Escapes pair a turbocharged 1.5L three-cylinder or 2.0L four-cylinder with an 8-speed automatic. A careful test drive should confirm smooth shifts, smooth auto start-stop restarts and no warning lights; turbo engines also benefit from on-time oil changes.
What to do: Test drive in traffic and review maintenance records.
Door Latch Recall (2014)
Ford recalled 2014 Escapes (as part of a larger door-latch campaign) because a door latch could fail, so a door might not latch or could open while driving.
What to do: Make sure each door latches securely and the recall is complete.
Generation and Engine Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The Escape covered here spans three very different generations: the boxy 2011-2012 model (2.5L, 3.0L V6, Hybrid), the 2013-2019 model (2.5L, 1.6L/1.5L/2.0L EcoBoost) and the 2020-2026 model (1.5L three-cylinder, 2.0L EcoBoost, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid). Two different 1.5L engines exist: a four-cylinder in 2017-2019 and a three-cylinder from 2020.
What to do: Confirm year, engine and drivetrain before comparing prices or specs.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, drivetrain and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies, including repeat repairs on fuel-injector and engine recalls.

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Ford Edge

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Ford Escape?
Which engine does this Escape have?
Is the 1.6L or 1.5L EcoBoost a concern?
What recalls should I check on a 2020-2022 Escape?
How efficient is the Escape Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?
What changed in 2017 and 2023?
Is the Escape being discontinued?
What should I inspect on a used Escape?
Which Escape is best for towing or AWD?
What similar SUVs should I consider?