2017 Ford Escape
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 2,686 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 26 Escape model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 39 involved a crash and 15 involved a fire. 56 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Visibility, power window devices and controlsJun 9, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Escape vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 16V617. The power-operated windows may exert excessive force when encountering an object, before they automatically reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
A closing window that does not reverse direction as expected can pinch a driver or passenger before retracting, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will update the power window operating system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 22, 2026. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C29. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6, 2026.
Campaign 26V374000 on NHTSA.gov
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
Visibility, power window devices and controlsAug 24, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2017 Ford Escape Titanium and SE vehicles manufactured October 5, 2015, to May 12, 2016. The settings for the closing-force of the power-operated windows may allow the windows to close on an object such as a body part and injure it before the windows auto-reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
If a window closes on a body part, it can increase the risk of injury.
Ford has notified owners, and dealers will update the power window operating system software, free of charge. The recall began on September 6, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16C12.
Campaign 16V617000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
1,983 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 11, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the check engine warning light was flashing on and off. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the computer system was down. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that coolant was leaking into the cylinder and the engine. The check engine warning light was reset. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, and the contact was informed that there was a cylinder misfire. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 11, 2024
Vehicle indicated on the on board information screen that the engine has misfire and service engine soon. Inspected and noticed coolant lower than normal and engine would idle different. Took to dealer for check engine light. Inspected by certified technician and was told the coolant was "washing the cylinder walls of cylinder 2 and dripping into cylinder 3 causing misfire and coolant to enter the combustion chambers and exhaust system ". Fords only fix to this was a complete engine replace. Quoted $8500 to replace. Was told by service writer that Ford has known about this problem on numerous models and passes the repair bill to the Customer with no help. This vehicle transport my 3 children and wife daily. After further review this could cause the engine to over heat cause the oil to become a the cooling solution until it the vehicle will stall and could bust in flames. One engine code indicated that the Evap system has malfunction and could not release the gas vapors from fuel tank. Which will cause the tank to explode with no warning. I bought this vehicle brand new and had services done when needed. 122k miles on a 6 year old vehicle and needing to replace a engine is not suppose to happen especially with a manufacturer that claim they are the leading manufacturer for the most sold and safest vehicles in America.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jan 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered with the check engine warning light illuminated. 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 vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was advised to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12 Short Block Replacement After Coolant Intrusion (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 56,767.
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 8, 2024
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and hesitated as if the engine was misfiring. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program NHTSA ID Number: 10213732 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however after checking on Manufacturer’s website, the contact learned that the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion into a cylinder and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
Engine, Jan 6, 2024
I was pulling out on the to the highway and my car just instantly died I barely got it off the road. If someone would have been behind me there would have been a crash I just got lucky. No warning signs no nothing. I had to get my engine replaced because of the coolant leak this is a problem most people are having. I just seen you recalled some 20 20 22s 23s for another problem why can you guys not recall these engines with the coolant leak I have spent thousands to fix this problem Ford needs to pay people back for this problem. Please do something with these engine coolant leaks. So many people are complaining and no one's doing anything. That's not cool when someone's driving and your car just instantly dies on the highway I was just lucky I was able to just Coast to get it off the road.
Power train, Engine, Jan 6, 2024, fire
I have a problem with my coolant leaking in the engine of my 2017 Ford Escape SE. case, [XXX] is from ford I have contacted ford several times on this issue. My vehicle is currently in the shop now since 11/14/2023. Ford says they are not going to fix my vehicle and it's a known issue I have included the service bulletin from Ford's website below. Any help getting my vehicle fixed would be greatly appreciated. I am also having problems with my transmission. VIN NUMBER [XXX] Bulletin [XXX] · Number: TSB [XXX] · Date: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Jan 5, 2024
Ford Escape 2017 with 2.0 eco boost engine started and ran rough for a few minutes. After driving the check engine light came on. Took to Tuffy who said it had coolant in #3 cylinder after sitting overnight. They would not repair so took to Firestone who verified and found #3 spark plug with heavy deposit and failed coil pack. Fixed. Check engine light came on again. I refilled the coolant reservoir and light went off. The engine tried to stumble and stall a few times which messes up the power steering. Took to dealer who charged for their mechanic to verify what I already paid for. They quoted $8,400 for a long block replacement. If you have a leaky head gasket, why do you need a long block??? Because the block has coolant slits between cylinders which cause the head gasket to fail. After 2017 there is a design change. Ford says they have campaign 21N12 for 1.5L engine but nothing for 2.0L. This is a LEMON law defect. It has only 71,000 miles. I suppose that I will be filing class action and lemon case.
Engine, Dec 30, 2023
Head gasket failed causing coolant to leak entirely. A KNOWN DEFECT.
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 28, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle was shuddering. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that an unknown cylinder was misfiring. An unknown repair was performed; however, the failure recurred while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to another mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that after parking and turning off the vehicle, the engine fan continued to run. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a coolant intrusion in the engine, and the engine needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to Ford Campaign Number: 21N12; however, the dealer informed the contact that the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Engine, Dec 28, 2023
Several misfires causing lack of power and sudden deceleration in traffic. Coolant leaking into cylinders causing misfiring.
Engine, Dec 26, 2023
Running rough with no MIL warning light. Possible engine issue as described by the below TSB: Ford TSB 22-2229 Make: Ford Number: 22-2229 Title: 2.0L EcoBoost - Coolant In Cylinders, White Exhaust Smoke and/or Illuminated MIL Date: 6/9/2022 Models: 2015-2018 Edge SE 2015-2018 Edge SEL 2015-2018 Edge Sport 2015-2018 Edge Titanium 2015-2019 Escape S 2015-2019 Escape SE 2018-2019 Escape SEL 2015-2019 Escape Titanium 2017-2018 Fusion Energi Platinum 2015-2018 Fusion Energi SE Luxury 2015-2019 Fusion Energi Titanium 2017-2018 Fusion Platinum 2017-2018 Fusion Platinum Hybrid 2015-2019 Fusion S 2015-2018 Fusion S Hybrid 2015-2019 Fusion SE 2015-2019 Fusion SE Hybrid 2019 Fusion SEL 2019 Fusion SEL Hybrid 2017-2019 Fusion Sport 2015-2019 Fusion Titanium 2015-2019 Fusion Titanium Hybrid Summary: Some 2015-2018 Edge and 2017-2019 Fusion/MKZ/Escape/MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a low coolant level, white exhaust smoke and/or a runs rough condition with or without an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may include P0300, P0301-P0304, P0316, P0217, P1285 and/or P1299 stored in powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to coolant intrusion into the cylinder. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the long block engine assembly.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 26, 2023
Received a warning on vehicle. However when diagnostics were run through the Ford's onboard system everything came back as normal. Went to find out what code was appearing. The code stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. Had all four replaced, but noticed that the coolant level had dropped off suddenly without warning, no notification notice in car, and the only reason I found out was my vehicle's temperature gauge was increasing quickly. After filling it up with coolant a second time and the check engine light not resetting after the spark plugs replacement, all of a sudden white smoke and smell came out of the exhaust. Knowing something was not right, quickly shut off vehicle, and called a local Ford dealership to verify that my Ford Escape with less than 74,000 miles on it had blown a head gasket!!! Even though the 2017 - 2019 did have a recall for this exact problem it ONLY APPLIED TO THE 1.5 ENGINES AND NOT TO THE 2.0 ENGINES!!! Why is that when there are a high number of complaints for the exact similar problem as mine?
Engine, Dec 22, 2023
Engine small block cracked due to coolant intrusion which Ford issued program 21N12 but now is refusing to repair due to slightly over mileage.
Engine, Dec 21, 2023
2017 Ford Escape Titanium. As I understand it from my Ford Service Representative: My heat was not warming up and when I noted it back in November, the soonest appt was 12/19/2024. I took my 2017 Ford Escape in to have the heat issue diagnosed on 12/19/2023. The coolant and antifreeze was leaking into the 2nd cylinder compartment from a small crack in the cylinder compartments. I have this serviced routinely per MFR. This appears to be a flaw in the Ford designed 4-cylinder engine block for the 2017 Escapes and they have since gone back to the previous engine coolant delivery system because this weakens the integrity of the cylinder compartment and these "cracks" were happening causing the fluids to leak into the piston compartment. I have an extended warranty, though I did not realize it was not a Ford extended warranty, but a 3rd party ESP. My ESP will pay for the major components of replacing the engine and labor costs, however does not cover "single-use" items like hoses, fluids, brackets, etc. to put in the new engine. I requested Ford to assist me with the $425.00 OOP expenses this will be, and they refused. I only have 30,000 miles on this engine and am very concerned that this should be placed on recall and Ford should pay for all 2017 Ford Escapes and other Fords that had this flawed designed 4-cylinder engine coolant delivery system.
Engine, Dec 18, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that when he started the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also stated when he started the vehicle, he became aware that the engine was misfiring. The vehicle was also consuming an excessive amount of coolant. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact stated that the vehicle was scheduled for a diagnostic test later in the week. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Dec 18, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 15-20 MPH with his 5-year-old son in the rear passenger’s seat, the vehicle lost motive power intermittently. Additionally, the RPMs were fluctuating. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled into a parking spot. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a coolant intrusion in the engine, and the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the engine was replaced; however, the failure increased more frequently. The contact stated that the vehicle was shuddering and vibrating significantly while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who informed the contact that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 73,285.
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 18, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated when she started the vehicle, the vehicle lurched forward when shifted into reverse and then stalled. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that coolant had intruded into the cylinders and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin Number: 19-2139 Coolant Intrusion into the Cylinders (Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Power train, Engine, Dec 14, 2023
I started the vehicle and the engine was shaking, it had reduced acceleration and power while driving and the engine light started flashing with engine making popping noises and car bucking. I could not stay up with cars on freeway and after stopping would barely accelerate. I had to wait till traffic was not coming to turn across oncoming lanes to prevent being hit. I limped it back home and found low coolant and misfire codes for cylinders 2 and 3 . I am a 25 year ASE master certified auto technician , I pulled spark plugs and found coolant in cylinders 2 and 3. Engine was not overheating. this vehicle has 62120 miles. I found many complaints online for this issue.
Engine, Dec 11, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact used a diagnostic scanner to diagnose the vehicle and retrieved a code that indicated that coolant was leaking into cylinder #2. The contact checked the coolant level and noticed that the coolant level was low. The coolant reservoir was refilled. The contact stated the coolant level dropped low again. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a coolant leak into the engine and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Engine, Dec 9, 2023
Coolant leak into the engine, the irreparably damages the engine. Ford refuses to repair.
Engine, Dec 8, 2023
Car misfires and loses coolant due to antifreeze intrusion into the engine. Engine warning light came on, concern of overheating. I have taken it to a car dealership and they have said yes, it is a know problem. There was a customer satisfaction program-21N12, that replaced customer satisfaction program 19B37-Supplement #4; that references Technical Service Bulletin 22-2134, of which I was never made aware of the 21N12 customer satisfaction program that offered a one time repair to affected vehicles by November 30, 2022. I did not receive the paperwork, sample letter sent is dated June 9, 2022, thus making me unaware of the dire issue and offer for repair. I do not know if my car was experiencing the problem then, but I would like to have know there was a known engine concern from Ford. Instead, I have had the following timeline since not receiving the notification: Extended Warranty expires: February 2023 Replace Water pump, costing $1666.82 in May 2023 Replace Auxillary pump, all vehicle filters, and spark plugs in August/September 2023. Found out about Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12 and know engine issue in September 2023. Vehicle will now not start. I continued to own my car that had an extended service warranty expire in February 2023.
Engine, Dec 7, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, the contact attempted to start the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle started, and he was able to drive the vehicle for several days. The contact stated that the coolant reservoir and the radiator had to remain full of water to prevent the vehicle from overheating. The contact stated that the most current failure, the vehicle failed to start, and there was white smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact checked the engine fuel level and there was a white creamy substance on the dipstick. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with oil leak in the cylinder and a cracked engine block. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 98,686. The VIN was unavailable.
Engine, Dec 6, 2023
Blown head gasket at 55,000 miles. Coolant intrusion into cylinder. TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 2.0L EcoBoost - Coolant In Cylinders, White Exhaust Smoke And/Or Illuminated MIL 19-2346 19 December 2019 Ford Motor Company has known about this problem, but refuses to pay for the repairs, because the vehicle is 6 years old. Powertrain warranty: 5 years 60,000 miles.
Steering, Engine, Dec 6, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 35–40 MPH, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the steering wheel was vibrating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where the engine was replaced under a Customer Satisfaction Program at approximately 45,000 miles. The vehicle was taken to the same local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the flex plate was cracked. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 6, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was driving rough and would not properly accelerate with the odor of coolant present inside the vehicle. The contact diagnosed the vehicle with a misfire due to coolant leaking into cylinder #4. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 55,000.