2018 Ford Escape
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 1,795 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 6th highest complaint count among 26 Escape model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 25 involved a crash and 5 involved a fire. 30 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
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsFeb 12, 2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape and Lincoln MKC vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with incorrect front brake hoses that may chafe against other components, possibly resulting in a brake fluid leak.
A brake fluid leak may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake hoses, replacing any that are incorrect, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S04.
Campaign 18V104000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/windowDec 18, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S44.
Campaign 17V803000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
1,795 reports, newest first.
Engine, Aug 10, 2023
Car began blowing large plume of white smoke out exhaust on startup around 100k miles. It was determined to be the internal coolant leak as described by NHSTA TSB 10218621. Quoted by dealer as over $4000 to repair. No warning lights have come on with the vehicle. Only thing that made me aware of this issues was the smoke coming out of vehicle.
Engine, Aug 5, 2023
My car has coolant intrusion problem where the coolant get into the cylinders so I have to top off the coolant after evey drive with a quart of coolant or so. Also there is white smoke coming out of the exhaust beside a faulty engine message that comes and goes on the dash.
Engine and engine cooling, Equipment, Aug 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that when starting the vehicle, it would vibrate and shake. The starter would fail to successfully start the vehicle intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that coolant leaking into the engine causing the engine to fail. The engine needed replacement. The failure was related to Service Bulletin NHTSA ID Number: 10210392 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Equipment) however they were 7,000 miles outside of the mileage limitation to receive the repair. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that they did not meet the requirements of the Service Bulletin. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 3, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that coolant was leaking into the engine, requiring an engine replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 88,000.
Wheels, Aug 2, 2023
Today, the shop I took my vehicle to for oil change and tire rotation, could not complete the tire rotation due to many lug nuts being swollen and unable to be reinstalled safely. I had to purchase seventeen new lug nuts costing several hundred dollars to make the vehicle safe again. This flaw in lug nut selection by Ford is widely known and this is not my first encounter with swollen lug nuts. Previously, I had a flat tire on a local highway. When I attempted to change the tire, the provided lug wrench would not fit the lugs. A wrecker was summoned and the driver was also not able to remove the lugs with any sockets he had. The vehicle needed to be towed to my Ford Dealer. Lug nuts were replaced at that time as well. My concern is the safety of the lug nuts since heating can caus them to swell and distort. Are they also being prematurely weakened due to inappropriate materials being used?
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 31, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine light illuminated. Upon inspecting the engine compartment, the contact noticed that the coolant level was low coolant. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of coolant. The contact stated that further testing revealed a cylinder misfire code, and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The independent mechanic determined that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The contact linked the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 87,000.
Engine, Jul 31, 2023
COOLANT INTRUSION INTO CYLINDERS. AT LEAST NEW SHORT BLOCK NEEDED, IF NOT A LONG BLOCK ASSEMBLY..
Power train, Engine, Jul 31, 2023
During my ownership of a 2018 Ford Escape equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine, a series of catastrophic engine failures occurred, jeopardizing my safety and that of others on the road. The specific components that failed this time include the short block, crankshaft, and other critical components within the long block, such as the pump and converter. Additionally, the torque converter and flex plate required replacement. These components are available for inspection upon request. The failures posed significant safety risks as the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power and acceleration, leading to potential hazards for both myself and adjacent motorists. The problem has been confirmed by the All American Ford dealership in Old Bridge, NJ, where detailed diagnostic testing revealed the flex plate and short block were damaged. The vehicle has been inspected by the All American Ford dealership, and a claim was filed with my warranty company (Olive Warranty), but unjustly denied, despite the recurring nature of these failures. Significantly, no warning lamps or messages alerted to the impending issue prior to the failure, and the initial symptom was a clicking noise upon activating the AC. My local mechanic initially suspected the problem to be related to the air compressor, but further inspection revealed that it was not the cause of the issue.
Engine, Jul 28, 2023
Check engine light came on, had it read and it showed cylinder 3 misfire. Did the basic spark and coil change then took it in to recheck which showed the same code. Next while driving with kids in the car, a High Heat warning light came on, pulled over and antifreeze was dripping, added antifreeze and drove 2 miles to Ford Performance on 7?24/2023 where they tell me that coolant leaked into the cylinder and I would need a whole new engine costing approx $8000. Open research I'm finding out that Ford new about this faulty engine and still manufactured vehicles using this motor. Ford needs to honor a replacement for the faulty engine to make it right!
Engine, Jul 27, 2023
My check engine light has come on and was first diagnosed as a crank shaft tube that needed to be replaced. That was done 6/19 and I paid $411.29 for the repair. I had to bring the car back today because the check engine light came on again. I received a voice mail stating that the same error code came up, but inspection shows the crank shaft tube with no problems. The voice mail said it’s most likely an evap problem, but it’s hard to find. I was asked if I wanted to drive the car until I have “drive ability issues”. According to vehicle history.com this is a known issue for this model and Ford refuses to issue a recall and this issue may result in the need for a complete engine replacement. I shouldn’t be asked to drive a vehicle that has a leak that could cause the engine to break or blow up, until I have drive ability issues risking my safety. The car already had a burning smell as I was driving it to the dealership. I am asking for your assistance in getting Ford to do the right thing for myself and everyone else who has this make and model of vehicle. Please let me know how I can send you the voice mail. Thank you.
Engine, Jul 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shuddered and failed to accelerate as needed with the accelerator pedal depressed. The vehicle stalled but restarted after four attempts. The vehicle was taken a dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 84,000.
Power train, Jul 25, 2023, crash
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while parking into a parking space, the vehicle accelerated at high speed. The contact was not sure if a warning light was displayed or illuminated. The vehicle drove over the curb striking several shopping carts and coming to a complete stop, causing front-end damages to the vehicle. The contact suffered a bruise to the chest due to the seat belt but did not seek medical attention. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Engine, Jul 25, 2023
I purchased my 2018 Ford Escape with brand new in February 2018. My vehicle only has 35,279 miles on it at the time of the incident. On 17JUL2023 my check engine light came on. The AutoNation Ford dealership did not have any appointment available until 24JUL2023. I did not drive the vehicle again until that day to get it to the dealership the vehicle was shaking and could not go above 20 mph. Once checked in they diagnosed it as "P0303 misfire on cylinder3, coolant leaking into cylinder3 recommend engine replacement." The vehicle could breakdown at any moment if driven and further damage done to the transmission. Articles and lawsuit are all over this issue and ford has still has no recalls for this manufacture failure and they refuse to help compensate for any costs.
Engine, Jul 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated and started blinking. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that coolant was leaking into the cylinders causing cylinder #2 to misfire. The contact was informed that the engine block needed to be replaced. The contact was referred to the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 93,361.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle started shaking violently. The contact stated that there was smoke inside the vehicle. The accelerator pedal failed to depress as needed and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who referred her to the dealer. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that coolant was leaking into the cylinders. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 58,480.
Wheels, Jul 23, 2023
Poor lug nut design I’m sure the dealership impacted these nuts on and did follow proper torque recommendations. Had a flat and can’t remove the tire without having to destroy the lug nut or pay a big expense to tow and fix it outrageous this is a known issue with these nuts I promise the dealership doesn’t follow proper procedures torque wise.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 22, 2023
When I stop at a red light and begin to to go the vehicle jumps and jerks forward before going
Power train, Engine, Jul 22, 2023
I own a 2018 Ford Escape SE. In May, I started my car & it shook, the check engine light started blinking. I took it to Auto Zone for a diagnostic; diagnostic trouble codes Power Train System - P0302/ cylinder 2 misfire detected & Anti-Lock Brake System (No Code) /Service Interval Light. I was told to replace the spark plugs & ignition coil. I took it to an independent mechanic, sparks plugs & coil were replaced. The check engine light off. Notice I was using more gas. 2 weeks later, check engine light came on, car started shaking. I took it to Auto Zone for another diagnostic & was told the same thing, issue with the spark plugs and coil, misfire for cylinder 2. July 14, took it to the dealership for an oil change; I was told the coolant was below level/ low. In my Ford Pass App, I received an alert; I decided to sign in into my FORD ACCOUNT, where I have my cars registered. I saw an alert with the following messages: 1 * Recalls: You're all set! There are no recalls for your vehicle. 2 * CSP (Customer Satisfaction Program 19B37 will be in effect until November 30,2022, regardless of mileage. Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners. Additionally, if engine damage has occurred due to coolant intrusion, Ford Motor Company is providing a one-time repair of the engine short block. I called Mac Haik Ford Dealership and notify them of the issue. They wanted to charge me $155 just for a diagnostic. I told then that according to Campaign #21N12, I'm not suppose to be charge. I left my vehicle at the dealership for the diagnostic and at 3:54pm, I received a message for the service adviser telling me this "Hello this is [XXX] with Mac Haik Ford. The technician has looked at your vehicle & it is coolant intrusion. We have ordered parts, and we will be going into Monday with your vehicle. I will touch base with you again on Monday, have a great weekend. My car could have overheated & could have been stranded on the freeway or could have been in an accident INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Jul 21, 2023
Coolant has leaked into a cylinder of the engine. The engine needs to be replaced. Lose of coolant did not trigger a warning. Luckily the engine did not catch on fire.
Engine, Jul 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 20 MPH, the message to "Pull Over Immediately" was displayed. The contact stated that his wife pulled over to the shoulder of the road and turned off and restarted the vehicle and drove to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the head gasket was blown. 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 91,021.
Engine, Jul 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact discovered that oil had splashed throughout the engine. The contact also stated that while at a complete stop white colored smoke was coming from underneath the hood. The contact initially took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where he was informed that the oil separator had cracked. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer who informed him that the valve cover and vacuum pump gaskets also needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Air bags, Seat belts, Jul 18, 2023, crash
Seatbelt on the passenger side did not stop me from hitting the dash board and the air bags did not deploy. Was rearend while waiting to get off an of ramp.
Engine, Jul 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the engine sputtered. Additionally, there was white smoke coming from the tailpipe. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the mechanic retrieved DTC code: P0303 (Engine Misfire - Cylinder #3). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000.
Engine, Jul 17, 2023
I own a 2018 Ford Escape. While starting up my car it started to shake, and I noticed the check engine warning light turned on. My car was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the ignition coil and spark plugs had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure recurred. Upon start-up once again, the car started to shake, and the check engine warning light illuminated. I had to have it towed to the mechanics where it was diagnosed that cylinder #2 was misfiring, the head gasket leaked oil and coolant had leaked into the engine cylinder, and the engine needed to be replaced. I do not have $8-$12 thousand dollars lying around to replace the engine. I was advised to call the NHTSA Hotline. My car barely has 78,000 miles on it.
Engine, Jul 13, 2023
I have a 2018 Ford Escape with 71,500 miles. Within the last 6 weeks the engine had run rough a couple of times and check engine light had come on, my mechanic ran the code which was for misfiring, it stopped happening and the light went off though it turned on and off 1-2 more times over the next few weeks. On July 4th, while driving, I got a large warning that the engine was overheating and to pull to the side of the road. Thankfully I was in a place where I could safely do this though I was about 3 minutes from getting on a major highway and it was midday. To me this is a major safety issue as I could have at minimum been stranded anywhere at any time of day or night. I was able to get the car to my local mechanic a couple of days later and they confirmed that the coolant was almost gone and was leaking into cylinder 4 and that at least one of the codes from the engine light matched that listed on a Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin about the coolant issue. Since I can't afford to be stranded I have gotten a rental car and have not been driving it to take it to a Ford dealer yet. But based on research, this is a known issue and the TSB solution is to replace the short block and the head gasket which will cost me several thousand dollars since Ford will not cover saying it is out of warranty.