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: fuel/propulsion system
72 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 8, 2024
-PURGE VALVE SOLENOID REPLACED TWICE FOR EVAP SYSTEN, CODE 1450 OCCURED 01/05/2021 & 05/14/2021 AND -LEAK IN RADIATOR, UNKNOWN IF BLOWN GASKET. RECEIVED MESSAGE “HIGH ENGINE TEMPERATURE STOP SAFELY” WITH ZERO RADIATOR FLUED IN TANK OCCURED 11/2/202. THIS HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED BUT I HAVE BEEN AWARE OF CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT RELATED TO THIS ISSUE.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 28, 2024
The oil pump failed due to the coolant intrusion into the engine, causing low pressure and sludge. My mechanical breakdown warranty inspected it and will not cover the replacement due to the sludge. The check engine light came on and off after I hit 70000 miles, and I was alerted to a recall when I got my last oil change in March of 2024, but the Ford dealership stated I had no warranty and no recall to address.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 24, 2024
Coolant intrusion into combustion chamber requires new engine. Verified by Ford dealer. Not covered by warranty. Ford technician states engine block manufacturer issue.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 14, 2024
Our car started slipping gears, jerking, take forever to accelerate, and would lose power. We took to dealership thinking it was a transmission. They told us no it wasn’t the transmission and we needed the replace the fuel pump injector we did that. A week later SAME issues happened again they replaced the pump again. A month later SAME symptoms again this time they told us we needed our engine replaced. So we got a brand new engine in. A month later I lost power while turning onto to a highway and the dealership told me that it was the new engine breaking in. Not even 3 months later after the new engine being put in our car starts to act up with the SAME symptoms. We took it back since the engine was under warranty. They tell us we need a new transmission. We told them we knew it was the issue the first time around. We can’t afford a new transmission after just putting a new engine in 3 months ago! Stay away from this year ford escape. Our car only had 116,000 miles and it’s our family car so we can’t drive it anymore cause we can’t afford another big issue to be fixed. Mainly because we think the dealership doesn’t want to admit their mistakes and won’t resolve the issue for us. Can’t believe the car has these two huge issues in one year let alone less than 6 months apart!
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 7, 2024
Cylinder (2) misfire causing coolant intrusion in engine block . Tested and failed damaged cylinder plug causing misfire. Engine ruined!
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 1, 2024
I was driving down the road and my vehicle stalled out and had little to no acceleration Was stuck in the middle of an intersection until I could move it to a parking lot putting my safety at risk. Dealer (Brondes Ford Toledo) ran codes, yet would not tell me the codes after they tried to charge $11,000. No Warning lights yet, had engine lights on until the dealer replaced Fuel vapor assembly and crankcase pressure sensor a little less than 30 days beforehand. After service Ford said it was good to go and stated this could not have been related to the bushing already recalled.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 14, 2024
Coolant leaking into cylinders, smell coolant through vents, smoke from exhaust, film of exhaust coming into front windshield, turbo charger 1, under boost, car just stopped accelerating
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 27, 2024
My son was driving this car home from school and while going through a busy street, the car suddenly buckled and stalled and he was almost t-boned. Thankfully he was not hit. We later found out that this vehicle was assembled in a plant that has a known line issue with their engine blocks. This issue caused one of the cylinders to crack and fluid to leak in causing the issue that almost caused the accident. We were made aware that this is a known issue by our service person. Ford is aware of it as they have issued CSPs and TSPs regarding the issue but have yet to issue a recall and will not cover repair costs or offer to fix vehicles before they have the issue. Ford should have a safety recall to prevent possible accidents as these vehicles age and the problem occurs more regularly.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 8, 2024
On a routine drive, my 2017 Escape SE, traveling at 68 mph on cruise control made a quick thud sound and instantly became unresponsive to gas pedal depression, and immediately began to slow down from 68mph, rapidly slowing to 30-35mph with fast moving traffic behind me. My Escape and displayed an Engine light that flashed continuously, and I drifted over to the shoulder and came to a stop noticing the rough and choppy engine operation. upon the use of a general OBD II scanner, P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303 were displayed as the cause for the engine light illumination. The vehicle was towed to a repair shop (receipt attached) and the spark plugs, coils were replaced at a cost upwards of $500. Upon the Escape being returned to me and its initial 50 miles driven, once again the engine light illuminated and the code P0302, P0303 were read once again as well as “Multi cylinder misfires detected” The vehicle vibrated violently, and accelerated was deeply compromised resulting in a near miss accident from the rear, and subsequently not being able to accelerate through an intersection. This was another safety issue as opposing traffic in all directions were required to go around my disabled vehicle at risk of collision with my vehicle. Vehicle was then taken to a Ford authorized dealership for inspection and possible repairs. At that time I was informed coolant had been leaking into cylinder 2 & 3 causing continued and extensive damage to the internal working components of my 1.5L Ecoboost engine. The repair required and sugggested was a Long Block Replacement with an estimated cost of $10,000+, surpassing the value of the vehicle three times over. I took the vehicle home and parked it, and bought a 2018 Ford Escape, and was unable to use my 2017 Escape as a trade in as it was considered a worthless vehicle due to its disrepair. Ford knows about this issue and refused assistance or advice knowing this problem exists and affects most of their vehicle lineup
Service brakes, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 12, 2024
For the last few months, I’ve noticed that my vehicle’s brake mechanism hasn’t been stable, also audible /noises coming from brakes at time, vehicle has an EVAP leak, causing vehicle not to start after refilling with gas. Yesterday, 6/11, while traveling, there was a notice that said engine was overheated and to stop vehicle safely. I was on a restricted highway on a very slim shoulder, very traumatized, but after 3 hours successfully has vehicles towed to a repair shop. No work has started.
Steering, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 11, 2024
I had my car serviced with Ford 6/2024 for the replacement of a steering rack and pinion that cost $3,000. After repair, my check engine light came on. Ford capped all my fluids, but said they didn’t diagnose the check engine light because it would cost another $200 diagnostic fee. On 7/1/2024 I took my car to a local mechanic and he discovered I had no coolant fluid and a diagnostic test showed a misfire in Cylinder 1. He diagnosed this for free in a few minutes, while Ford refused and allowed me to drive back on the road in dangerous conditions. My coolant is leaking into cylinder 1. This is due to a manufacture defect in the open deck design of the engine block. My life was put at risk on the road driving with no coolant causing damage to my engine and reducing my car’s performance. Joes Auto shop confirmed my issue informing that I need a new engine costing around $8,000.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, May 7, 2024
My check engine light on causing vehicle to run rough.and delay in engine performance.(transmission shifting). Ford dealer replace several Emission parts. (Warranty.) .Purge valve system. Oxygen sensors Etc. Car in shop for 12days.pick vehicle up drove 2miles check light came on again. Back to ford, Now ford wants Me to pay for needed repairs to charcoal canister, Purge Valve system. $400,00 to $ 800.00. This repair is EPA and Federal Emission Policy. Which Fotd and Dealer States no it's not. Dealer will not HELP with any assistance. Tried to explained Ford and Federal.EPA rules. Per Ford Warranty Parts statements and policy . Dealer 1st stated to me this part is under extended Ford Warranty. Hours later called Me back,Stating It's My responsibility to repair. This part is Electric vacuum operated. Prt# GV6Z9D333A Purge Control Valve (Block off switching Valve ) Which is a Hose and Solenoid Assy. The say it's a hose nothing else. I explained a hose is only a HOSE and has nothing to do with opening and closing of Emission Purge Valve .System. That is what the Solenoid is for which opens and closes Purge System from fuel tank Vapors system to charcoal canister. Please Help me in this repair clarification.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 28, 2024
The engine broke down and coolant was coming in somehow. It required a total engine replacement.
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, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 2, 2023
My car suddenly stopped accelerating. No warning lights came on. If I had been on a freeway, it could have been catastrophic. I had car towed to Sunrise Ford who said I needed a new Turbo boost, turbo charge assembly and VCT solenoids. I authorized that repair as cat only has 65,000 miles. After that repair, while the car was being test driven by the service technician from sunrise ford, the car failed again, completely immobilized and the tech pushed the car off to the side of the road. Now they say I have complete transmission failure and have to spend 7000-9000 to replace the transmission at 65,000 miles. It seems like a defect that could put other drivers at risk! It should be looked into as I hear other Fords have had issue with the turbo boost and transmission.
Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 27, 2023
The high pressure fuel pump failed causing damage to cam and shavings in motor. The mechanic said engine needs to be replaced. I could have been driving on the interstate instead of a back road when this happened and I lost power. Lucky for me I wasn't. It could have been very bad. Ford has had a service bulletin out on this issue for some time. I had to go to 3 different Mechanics before one would even touch it. They all said the same thing. You will need at least a new cam probably a new engine per the service alert. Ford says those mean nothing and they can't help me. If I had been on interstate and crashed then maybe they would talk to me.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 14, 2023
Car idles poorly on Start. Check engine light came on and indicated misfire on cylinder 2. Smell of coolant coming from exhaust. Misfires without check engine light as well. Cylinder 2 and 4 have been replaced but engine continues to misfire. Believed to be a coolant leak into the engine
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 10, 2023
My vehicle was scheduled to have Customer Satisfaction Program 19B37 completed which would have found that Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12 needed done and Corwin Ford of Reno pushed my service out by months causing those programs to expire. Due to that my now 5 yr old SUV with 66,634 miles needs a new engine per the diagnostic quote I received from the auto shop that Corwin Ford sent me to because they also couldn’t fit me in for a service.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 2, 2023
I just bought this car less than a week again. 2017 Ford Escapes are known to have cylinder misfires and similar issues. My car just had to issue occur. It raises a lot of safety issues and can render the car unusable.
Power train, Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 24, 2023
The car has suffered from multiple problems since 2020, where each time I would take it to the shop to be assessed.. The transmission, the electrical, and I have suffered from mental illness due to me being afraid to drive in the car. There was no way to get it diagnosed for the specific recall. I have spent $15,547.50 in mostly the same repairs. I have bought a total of 13 tires. Had to get the front suspension fixed, the struts, rental cars, had to get new brakes and rotos 3 times, wheel bearing replacement, had to get a second key cut, and the car reprogrammed, car makes a loud noise and it was not able to be diagnosed, purge valve assembly, spark plugs changed 2 times, and of course regular oil changes every few months. My check engine light has never come on. I have gone to the ford service cener, grease monkey, valvoline, good year, jiffy lube, tune up clinic, c&p auto repair. There were 2 recalls on the ford escape 2017 causing my car to not be able to be on brake without it shaking uncontrollablly. Every time a car issue would arise I would immediately go to a car shop. I am afraid to drive the vehicle due to the shifter not going into park. My daughter has missed muliple days of school due to the ongoing car issues. Her school is aware of the persistent car issues. We are homeless so we rely on the car 100%. I will be able to send all documents when you are ready.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 22, 2023
While driving on the freeway the engine suddenly lost power, stuttered, misfired, ran very rough and "buckled". I was unable to maintain speed and had to turn off the freeway a the next exit. I was able to reach a safe location in "crawl mode" from where the car had to be towed to the dealership. The check engine light was not lit before but stayed on during and after this incident, which was the first time it happened. The dealer confirmed the problem and identified the throttle body as the failed component, it is sticky on the inside and may have been stuck in a position that did not allow me to drive anymore. It is UNKNOWN if the dealer has initiated getting the vehicle or any faulty parts inspected by anyone else. Unrelated to this incident this vehicle had the entire engine replaced in March 2022, ref TSB 19-2346 https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2019/MC-10169807-0001.pdf ; the symptoms of failure last year were very similar, loss of power, misfire, stuttering, running rough.
Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 19, 2023
Owner of a 2017 Ford Escape; After refilling vehicle at local fueling station the vehicle would not start. Check engine illuminated. Attempted to start; however the vehicle would not; and everything lit up on dashboard. Finally after the 3rd/4th try the vehicle finally started. Taken vehicle to dealer and was informed it was the purge valve. Headed towards dealership shortly to find the reason. This happens every time I fill up the vehicle; otherwise it starts perfectly. Having to pay a $149. fee for them to check why the engine light is on; although, a gentleman checked it previously for free at the dealership; the representative stated they had to do further testing. Consequently, I see the Ford Focus had the same issue..
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 17, 2022
Whenever I put gas in my vehicle it hesitate to start. I reported this to the dealership when it started doing this about 3 weeks after getting it. I purchased it on January 24, 2022.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 23, 2022
The vehicle started over heating for no reason, filled the coolant with last oil change within a few days before. Would get to the point the car would stop driving. Happened a few times a day then spread out to less and less. Then happened randomly one day and the car never started again. It stays in a dangerous over heat mode where the car won’t start. I had to have it towed almost 60 miles home and then Uber myself home. We had the car looked at. Never diagnosed, but we were told we have a cracked head. Possible coolant leakage. Total Engine failure. The cause is because the vehicle is defective p
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 16, 2022
While stopped at a red light the car spontaneously shut off and had to be put in park and restarted. This happened 3 times in the past 2 weeks on extremely hot days. No engine warning light has come on.