2013 Ford Escape
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 2,754 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 26 Escape model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 50 involved a crash and 90 involved a fire. 55 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterJan 15, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
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 plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.
Campaign 26V011000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, gear position indication (prndl)Jun 10, 2022
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.
Campaign 22V413000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchJun 8, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.
Campaign 20V331000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, lever and linkage, floor shiftJul 16, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Escape, and 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles, equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time and cause the bushing to detach from the transmission. The condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the ignition key, while the transmission may not be in Park, with no warning message or audible chime.
If the vehicle is exited without the transmission being in Park and without the parking brake being applied, the vehicle may unexpectedly move, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S20. Note: Owners are directed to use the parking brake until the recall remedy repairs can be made.
Campaign 18V471000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchSep 6, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.
Campaign 16V643000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringDec 2, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured January 11, 2012, to April 1, 2013, and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles manufactured May 03, 2012, to October 14, 2013. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may provide incorrect signals to the powertrain control module (PCM).
The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began on January 7, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17-S1.
Campaign 15V813000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsSep 26, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.
The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.
Campaign 14V597000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringAug 11, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to April 1, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines and Focus ST vehicles manufactured February 14, 2012, to October 14, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may provide incorrect signals to the powertrain control module (PCM).
The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17.
Campaign 14V495000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, body, doorMay 7, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through April 10, 2014. Due to an assembly misalignment between the exterior door handle and the door outer panel, the affected vehicles have doors that may be difficult to close or may possibly open while driving.
A door that opens unexpectedly may result in an unrestrained occupant falling from the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and correct the mounting of the door handles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S03.
Campaign 14V239000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, sensor/control module-inactiveMay 7, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.
If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.
Campaign 14V237000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, reclinerApr 2, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced with sub-standard weld joints used to attach the seat back recliner mechanism to the seat frame. The affected seat backs may have insufficient strength to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."
The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.
Campaign 14V164000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsNov 25, 2013
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine subject to prior safety recall NHTSA 12V-336. In some cases, the engine compartment fuel line may have been installed incorrectly when repaired under the prior recall. The misinstalled fuel line could chafe and eventually leak fuel.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Ford will notify owners and dealers will inspect the engine compartment fuel line, and if necessary, replace it, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13S12.
Campaign 13V584000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineNov 25, 2013
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through June 2, 2013 and equipped with 1.6L engines. The affected vehicles may experience localized overheating of the engine cylinder head which may cause cracks that could allow oil to leak.
Leaking engine oil may come into contact with a hot engine surface potentially resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the engine shielding, cooling and control systems, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13S12.
Campaign 13V583000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkagesMar 7, 2013
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012, through November 21, 2012. The left rear door child lock was built incorrectly. As a result, the child lock may not engage when the operator uses normal force to activate the child lock.
The operator may incorrectly believe the child lock is engaged. However, the door may be opened from the inside, increasing the risk of injury to an unrestrained child.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected rear door latches, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 13V085000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingDec 3, 2012
This is an update to a recently announced recall. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through November 26, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines, as well as certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles manufactured from February 3, 2012, through November 29, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. Coolant system leaks may cause the engines to overheat and leak flammable engine fluids.
If flammable engine fluids come in contact with the vehicles hot exhaust system, a vehicle fire could occur.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine for coolant system leaks and reprogram the vehicles powertrain control module and instrument cluster with an updated calibration and overheat strategy software. There will be no charge to owners for this service. Owners were recently notified to contact dealers to arrange for alternative transportation as Ford developed a remedy. Owners will be shortly receiving notifications to contact Ford dealers to schedule the free remedy repair. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 12V551000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingSep 4, 2012
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through August 31, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. The cylinder head cup plug (freeze plug) may become dislodged resulting in significant loss of engine coolant.
As leaking engine coolant evaporates on the hot engine, the glycol may ignite causing an engine compartment fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will seal the existing plug and add a secondary plug cover, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 11, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 12V431000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsDo not drive until repairedJul 18, 2012
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine. These vehicles have an engine compartment fuel line which may split, resulting in a leak.
If this leak occurs in the presence of an ignition source, there is an increased risk of a fire and/or personal injury.
Ford will notify and instruct owners to stop driving their vehicles and contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer to arrange pick-up of their vehicle. Customers will be provided with a rental vehicle if needed. The dealer will replace the engine compartment fuel line, free charge. The recall began on August 10, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 12V336000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, pedals and linkagesJul 6, 2012
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 8, 2012 THROUGH JUNE 7, 2012. DUE TO MIS-POSITIONED CARPET PADDING THE CENTER CONSOLE TRIM PANEL MAY BE PUSHED OUTBOARD OF THE INTENDED POSITION, REDUCING CLEARANCE RELATIVE TO THE PEDAL PACKAGE.
THE REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY RESULT IN THE DRIVER?S FOOT CONTACTING THE SIDE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE TRANSFERRING THE FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND THE RISK OF A CRASH.
FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CARPET PADDING AND LEFT-SIDE CONSOLE TRIM PANEL REPLACED WITH A NEW PANEL, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 12V319000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
1,428 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Oct 31, 2025
Despite never overheating, the engine completely failed due to a block crack caused by a coolant and oil leak of unknown origins. This has occurred in multiple other 2013 Ford Escapes owned by many different individuals. The car completely stopped on a highway, and would no accelerate due to loss of compression within cylinder 3.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Oct 21, 2025
Component: Engine and Engine Cooling: Cooling System (Thermostat Housing / Water Outlet) What happened: My 2013 Ford Escape developed a fast coolant leak from the thermostat housing/water outlet. Coolant drains quickly and the engine overheats within minutes. The engine has overheated twice while driving on the highway, which created a dangerous situation. This matches the overheating and coolant loss problems covered under Ford recalls 17S09 and 18S07, but my VIN is not included. How often: The leak happens continuously while driving. Coolant loss occurs rapidly and overheating follows if coolant isn’t refilled. Injuries/fires/crashes: No. The engine overheated twice on the highway, but I was able to pull over safely each time. Inspected or repaired: Yes. A mechanic diagnosed a coolant leak from the thermostat housing. Ford replaced the water pump and gasket in 2015 for a similar leak. Concern: Recurring safety issue identical to known Ford cooling system recalls. Requesting investigation or recall expansion for Escapes with fast coolant leaks and overheating.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Oct 17, 2025
The contact owns 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 25 - 30 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as indented. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was replaced once; however, the failure persisted. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number:13V583000 (ENGINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 167,294.
Engine, Sep 23, 2025
My engine leaks coolant and there is a recall for my car make and from the same year but my car is not included in the recall and it is a known issue with ford. They should expand the recall to more cars if they know it is an issue and a safety concern.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 28, 2025
The engine light came on a few weeks after I purchased this used vehicle from Ford. I got s diagnosis on it the other day at Oreillys they said “Thermostat coolant”, we added the necessary liquids. Got it checked out at a Ford dealership the other day and they say they see no issue with the thermostat cooler, but an issue with the standpipe. I search online and see a recall about this issue in the past.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 15, 2025, fire
I was driving my vehicle. I pulled into a gas station to buy something. When I stopped, smoke was coming out of the engine bay. When I popped the hood, the engine bay was on fire! I put it out with a fire extinguisher. Side Note: I bought this vehicle from a friend. It has not been registered in my name. It will be registered today, 08/15/2025 in Butler County Kansas. Augusta, KS.
Engine, Aug 12, 2025
coolant leak-put more in and leaks took to Ford Dealer in LaFollette, Tennessee. Was told after review it was the waterpump needed and also if they do that do the timing belt and the drive belt all costs were $ 2,133.00 estimated. The car has approximately 150,000 miles on it. I do not feel with all the safety issues for the coolant and the cars catching fire possibly that we should have to pay for these repairs and it would of been in a recall and fixed by Ford Motor Company. The check engine light soon has come on and remained on. It smells like the car is burning and it will only hold coolant at the minimun level. They stated it is driveable but it will eventually fail, dont you think Ford would have fixed this issue with all the complaints that have come in for the same issue. I do not have the estimate in had at this time as it is at the dealer and they have just called me with what is wrong with vehicle. Their phone number is 423-562-2251 Tim Short Ford
Engine, Aug 4, 2025
Check engine light came on, Coolant intrusion into the engine block. Ford knew of the issue but had stringent and not widespread enough recalls for this issue.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine was overheating with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local Firestone Service Center who diagnosed that the coolant reservoir hose was faulty and needed to be replaced. The reservoir hose was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Engine, Jul 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his mom was driving 35 MPH, there was white smoke coming from the engine and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that his mom pulled over into a parking lot and after several minutes, the vehicle was restarted; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that his mom was able to drive the vehicle the residence. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a blown head gasket, a cracked cylinder head, and a crack in the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V583000 (ENGINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 97,773.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the warning light indicating that the Engine was Overheating was illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and became aware that the engine had overheated. The contact filled the coolant reservoir with coolant. The contact stated that the warning light became illuminated again the following morning while driving approximately 5 MPH. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who tested the vehicle and confirmed that the vehicle failed the block test, indicating there was a coolant leak into the engine. The contact stated that the coolant pump was replaced, and the mechanic performed an oil change. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 90,000.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jul 9, 2025
While driving the engine seems to "go out" which is a risk to the driver, passengers, and other motorists near by because it is not expected and can happen anywhere (two lane road, major highway, while turning, etc.). You are able to press the gas and hear the engine but the car does not move - it acts as if it were in neutral. There are no safety or warning lights on the dashboard before or during this issue meaning that there is no way for the driver to prepare. There have been times where I was able to pull off the road and restart the car to temporarily remedy the issue but safe and accessible pull offs are not always available (bride, two lane road,etc). I travel with small children and there is a fear that if this continues to happen it can result in fatal consequences. In addition to the safety issue mentioned above there is a perpetual leak coming from the engine. This has progressively gotten worse and after speaking with a representative at Ford they named off a few "possible" causes but were unable to make a definitive decision. I was also informed that the issues that I am experiencing were not unique to just my vehicle but many Ford Escape 2013's in the area that had come to the dealership for guidance and help. While I have stated that the issue occurred in 2013 - it is still happening and continues to get worse.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 7, 2025, fire
On June 24, 2025 at approx 4:45 pm, my wife and I were driving home. The car was running fine, no lights, gauges were normal, no info on screen, when all of a sudden the engine shut down, info on screen stated steering assisi unavailable, and smoke started coming from vents. We were aproaching a sharp curve in the road, so I had to manhandle the steering to keep from crashing. Then used the emergency brake to stop after insuring we cleared the curve. By that time, we were unable to see anything for all the smoke inside the car. Nothing would work so we could not roll the electric windows down. When stopped, we opened the doors and jumped out. Then I heard the engine compartment crackling due to a fire. Luckily, we escaped with no injuries except for smoke inhalation. I have been driving for over 58 years and doing mechanical repairs for over 60 years. I have never experienced anything like this. We bought this car new and I have maintained it in 'like new' condition since. Now it is completely destroyed. I also know Ford has had recalls on this vehicle and we have taken care of all these except the one on the shifter linkage bushing. I am very concerned something went very wrong with this car and others may, too. Plus, I am a dedicated Ford owner and may be concerned on replacing with something else after this terrifying incident.
Engine, Jun 27, 2025
Coolant constantly leaking. Need to fill every couple of days. Replace thermostat. Didn’t work.
Engine, Jun 25, 2025
Keeps constantly and randomly alerting that the engine is overheating, there is recalls for same make and models with same issues but my vin does not have the coolant issue listed for recall yet it has same issue? Plus have not received any info on lock recall to get fixed
Electrical system, Engine, Jun 13, 2025
Recall 14517 check. Engine is stalling and failing in idle, but is able to start. I’m
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the messages "Engine Coolant Low" and "High Temperature Pull Over Safely" were displayed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact added water to the coolant reservoir. The contact stated that water leaked from the reservoir after the vehicle was restarted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Engine, Jun 8, 2025
Purchased a car from used dealership less than 24 hours later check engine light came on white smoke was coming out of the exhaust pipes displayed that coolant level was low . Had it diagnosed it is backfiring as well and it’s running hot there were 18 recalls that had same issues however it’s saying I have 0.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Visibility/wiper, Jun 4, 2025
Scared to drive took to get inspected felt like Transmission keep slipping and I was told there is a recall on transmission Also windshield wipers won’t go off have to remove fuse was told there is a recall
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 28, 2025
I just purchased this 2013 Escape with roughly 133,000 miles on it. The Car Fax showed the open recalls (latches and bushing) but that was it. Had the recalls done. Car immediately had issues with actuator and heater core. I tried to return the car and local dealer refused. Had heater core replaced for second time, after engine overheated due to coolant leak. Fuel sensor also had to be replaced due to fuel leak. Days after these repairs were done, car began leaking coolant again while driving, overheated and shut down.
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Engine Power Reduce - Lower Engine Temperature" message was displayed. The contact was continuously adding coolant to the coolant reservoir, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but no coolant leaks were found. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact was unable to pull over to a safe place. The contact shifted to neutral(N), turned off, and restarted the vehicle, and the contact was able to continue driving. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a misfire coming from the engine on cold starts intermittently. The contact, who was an industrial technician, used a code reader to scan the vehicle and retrieved DTC: P1299 and P0304. Additionally, the contact inspected the vehicle and determined that there was coolant intrusion in cylinder #4. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the failure had occurred due to an engine short block factory defect. The dealer recommended that the short block be replaced; however, the dealer had not diagnosed the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Engine, Apr 12, 2025
Coolant intrusion. Coolant leaking internally resulting in smoke from exhaust and fumes inside cabin when heater is on.
Engine and engine cooling, Apr 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and turned off, the contact discovered fluid leaking on the ground. Additionally, the engine overheated while driving, resulting in a burning odor. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The "Coolant Low" message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the turbo was leaking coolant and engine oil, and the head gasket was leaking engine oil. The mechanic performed an unknown repair, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who determined that the turbo was again leaking coolant and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V431000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Engine, Apr 7, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the cylinder head had failed, which caused the engine to fail. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.