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
2,686 reports, newest first.
Wheels, Nov 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while taking the vehicle in for a routine tire rotation, the dealer informed the contact that the lug nuts were swollen, and the tires could not be rotated. The contact's wife purchased a tool to remove the lug nuts and purchased replacement lug nuts. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, who was unable to use the tool to remove the lug nuts. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, AutoNation Ford Gulf Freeway (12227 Gulf Fwy, Houston, TX 77034), who was also unable to use the equipment to remove the lug nuts to replace them lug nuts with ones purchased by the contact. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 74,800. The VIN was not available.
Engine, Nov 1, 2025
Like so many other with the ford escape from 2017 I experience a coolant leak into engine head causing overheating. With only 115,000 miles and the clear amount of vehicles with the same issues its quite disappointing there is nothing ford motor company is doing, when its clearly a manufacturer defect. Any other company would be held responsible for such an obvious mistake made on their part. I would never buy a ford vehicle going forward as this experience is very disappointing.
Engine, Oct 30, 2025
Due to a known issue with the casting of the engine block, there is coolant inside of my engine. When my mechanic looked at it, he found a known issue with the block being cast incorrectly. The only work around is a new engine, but the engine that fits my car, will just have the same issue. Ford knows about the default and are not issuing any repair recalls because not enough people have complained about it. I just replaced the transmission last year because it suddenly failed. Now my engine is toast as well. Ford needs to do something about this. The only warning I had was when all of my coolant leaked into my engine and suddenly it overheated.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 28, 2025
While driving the car- the front end started to shake and the check engine light came on. Took it to our local Ford dealership and the advised that it was a cylinder 2 misfire when they diagnosed. They advised that the engine block is porous and the coolant slowly leaks into the engine which is causing the misfire. Called Ford's customer assistance line and since the car is out of warranty- and there are no open recalls, that they will not cover the $9100.00 new engine repair. Our car is a 2017 Ford Escape Titanium- with approx 82k miles. We purchased the car as a certified pre-owned in 2021- and have had no prior issues. We did not purchase any extended warranty. We were advised that the car isn't safe to drive due to the engine misfire.
Engine, Oct 26, 2025
There is coolant intrusion on the engine.
Engine, Oct 24, 2025
vehicle idled rough and then check engine light came on. Took to ford dealer in Stillwater, OK and they told me coolant was low, vehicle is leaking coolant into cylinder one and needs a new engine block for $9700. Asked about adding coolant and was told without the repair it would just go straight into the engine. Low coolant is at risk for overheating and engine shutdown
Electrical system, Oct 24, 2025
Backup Camera display had lines then went blue and black. Backup camera no longer detected
Engine, Oct 23, 2025
I bought this car on 05/30/25 and there is now a Coolant infusion into the engine which has made the car undrivable. The repair at my local Ford delaership is $7500.00. Ford has refused to assist in the repair or help in any way. I am now out of a vehicle due to this known issue Ford has
Engine, Oct 23, 2025
The motor in my 2017 Ford escape has knocked since purchasing the vehicle. The coolant degas tank was completely empty upon inspection indicating it leaked somewhere. The engine is blown and the technician states it’s due to sludge in the engine. Given that I have kept up on vehicle maintenance and only owned the vehicle for 25k miles, my suspicion is that the engine head sucked in the coolant causing engine failure. At this time the dealer is refusing to help in the repairs and I have no vehicle. I am not the only consumer that’s experiencing this issue.
Power train, Electrical system, Oct 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle started to shake and vibrate and decelerate. The vehicle was taken to a nearby mechanic who diagnosed that the alternator and alternator belt had failed and needed to be replaced. The alternator and alternator belt were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission warning light illuminated, and the vehicle decelerated, and the steering wheel was difficult to control. After stopping the vehicle and shifting to park(P), the vehicle rolled backwards causing the driver to activate the parking brake. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted regarding the failures. The failure mileage was 107,000.
Electrical system, Seats, Visibility/wiper, Oct 22, 2025
The seat stopped working. The ford almost gave out on me multiple times today. On the highway and twice on the road. Apparently this vehicle has been recalled plenty of times. It has something to do with bush wiring. The seat will not adjust or move forward and the windshield wipers don’t work. It basically gave out and will not reverse.
Electrical system, Latches/locks/linkages, Oct 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the tailgate unexpectedly opened while driving. The contact stated that the tailgate could be opened manually or with the key fob. The contact stated that depressing the button near the tailgate failed to open the tailgate. The tailgate ajar message was displayed. The contact attempted to resolve the issue by changing the key fob battery, but the issue persisted. The local dealer was contacted and suggested a diagnostic test be performed. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no recall coverage on the VIN and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Engine, Oct 22, 2025
Engine stopped working
Engine, Oct 21, 2025
My 2017 Ford Escape with has 37000 miles and I was told I need a new engine
Power train, Engine, Oct 21, 2025
Coolant Infusion Into Engine , Powertrain Light Issue Turns On But & It Stated To Replace Spark Plugs/ Coil Overs But Coolant Still Dissapates From Coolant Resevior
Engine, Oct 20, 2025
After having brought the car for service multiple times due to “cylinder misfires” & having been told to replace spark plugs, power packs & get a “tune up” the latest mechanic report states there is coolant leaking into the engine, and the engine needs to be replaced. There is a known Technical Service Bulletin (19-2139) regarding this issue with Ford Escape 1.5L models.
Engine, Oct 19, 2025
I purchased a used 2017 Ford Escape SE with EcoBoost engine (2.0L) at 58,000 miles in April of 2024. In September 2024, the check engine light came on, followed shortly thereafter by overheating of the engine. This overheating would cause the engine to go into limp mode on the highway, which happened multiple times. When inspecting the coolant tank, it was discovered that coolant was leaking out, and the tank did not retain new coolant poured in. The issue was determined by both the Ford dealership and a third-party mechanic to be coolant intrusion, requiring replacement of the engine long block. Upon researching the issue, discovered that Ford's customer service program 21N12 covers replacement for engines of this year and model, but was informed by Ford that recall/replacement was not covered as the engine on my vehicle was not 1.5L. Clearly, whether the engine is 1.5L, 1.6L, or 2.0L, the issue exists. The $8,300 fix has created a serious financial burden, as I had to pay out-of-pocket to fix Ford's known mistake. There is currently a class-action lawsuit against Ford for this issue: [XXX] , et al. v. Ford Motor Co ([XXX]). In the class-action, it is reported that buyers' engines have burst into flames due to this issue. In my case, the vehicle went into limp mode on the freeway, and could easily have caused a serious wreck - I am thankful that I was able to get the vehicle off of the road and into the shop before there was a wreck. These vehicles are active liabilities on the roads, and should be recalled as soon as possible. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Engine, Oct 19, 2025
Engine light came on while in traffic. Took Ford Escape to Tire Discounters, they replaced spark plugs and wires. Drove 200 miles, engine light back on. Not knowing problem and taking it to Grimer Tire, found out engine was cracked. Called several mechanics and found 2017 Ford Escape have coolant seal failure, which caused engine to overheat and crack from coolant leak. Then called Ford and received complaint number. Took to Kerry Ford and was told that Ford Motor Company is not responsible for failure, since my VIN not on recall. Even though the recall was the exact problem on my Escape. I have been dealing with a vehicle that overheats in traffic and not able to drive since and calls to Ford Motor has not been helpful or resolving this issue. Since July have cost me over $2,000. and my car not road safe.
Engine, Oct 19, 2025
Engine started to over heat and leak/burn coolant
Engine, Oct 18, 2025
the infamous coolant intrusion into a cylinder I no longer have a working car, im a nursing student this sucks!
Engine, Oct 17, 2025
I just purchased a 2017 Ford Escape with under 44,000 miles in August 2025 only to find out cylinder 3 has a coolant intrusion allowing coolant to enter on top of the piston. This can cause a fire!!!! I was told I need a new engine!!! Ford needs to pay for this because it's a known defect with these cars!!!
Engine, Oct 17, 2025
Check engine light came on and car was idling rough. Took to auto repair shop and was quoted almost $12,000 to fix problem. Code P0316, P2601 and P0302. Misfire in cylinder 2 due to coolant leakage. My entire engine needs to be replaced. I will now need to purchase a new car. I just found out this has been a known issue for 2017 Ford Escapes. I was never notified. Would not have bought this car in 2018 if this informatiom had been available. Just found out there is a class action lawsuit.
Engine, Oct 17, 2025
My 2017 Ford Escape with 55K miles (never missed a scheduled oil change since bought) was diagnosed with "coolant intrusion" . When the car broke down there were no prior indications that something was wrong, totally out of the blue. The dealership told me I would have to pay for a new engine because the warranty expired and gave me an estimate of $13,500.00. This is an engine defect and is happening to Ford owners throughout the US and they are being told the same things. How does coolant intrusion happen and why? A design defect which should be recalled and repaired by the company and not the consumer who has done nothing wrong.
Engine, Oct 16, 2025
2017 Ford Escape Eco Boost 2.0 Bought used, immediately experienced what everyone else has according to the well documented design flaw in these engines, coolant leaked into cylinder 3. eventually destroyed turbo, ( major safety concern ) potential fire could have occurred, ultimately this caused me to replaced engine at 126k miles which was my best option. Now I need to replace Torque converter/ Transmission. Common issue with Torque converter occurred at 130k miles, locked up, could only drive by going from neutral to Drive while applying gas. Just failed on me and now I'm discovering that the coolant is leaking into the engine I just replaced which was from a 2018 Ford Escape Eco boost. I still owe 8k, exhausted finances, total loss on what to do faced with replacing both the transmission and engine. Haggerty Ford in West Chicago knowingly sold this piece of junk to me.
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that on several occasions when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine needed to be replaced due to a coolant intrusion into the engine. The vehicle was repaired, but the small bolt package had not arrived after five days, due to the bolt kit not being available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 47,500.