Are there any recalls on 2008 Ford Escapes?

Yes. There have been multiple recall campaigns affecting the 2008 Ford Escape, and whether a specific vehicle has an open recall depends on its VIN. The safest way to know is to check official recall databases and contact a Ford dealer for any required repairs at no cost.

This article explains how recalls work for this model year, how to verify if your Escape is affected, and practical steps to check your VIN and arrange service. It also highlights where to find reliable information and what to expect from recall repairs.

Recall history and current status for the 2008 Ford Escape

Over the years, the 2008 Ford Escape has been involved in several recall campaigns. The exact campaigns and whether they apply to your vehicle depend on its production date, country, and most importantly the VIN. Open recalls can be addressed by a Ford dealership at no charge, regardless of the vehicle's age or current ownership status.

Common recall topics for this model year

The following are examples of the kinds of recall campaigns that have affected some 2008 Escape models. Not every vehicle is included, and only the VIN can confirm applicability.

• Airbag inflator or related safety-system components


• Fuel system components or fuel line concerns


• Electrical wiring, connectors, or electronic control modules


• Braking, steering, or suspension-related safety components

Note: This list highlights typical safety areas that have seen recalls in this era. For your specific vehicle, VIN-based verification is essential to determine active or completed campaigns.

How to check recalls for your 2008 Escape

To determine whether your particular vehicle has any active recalls, use a VIN-based lookup and contact an authorized dealer if any recalls are listed. Below are the steps to follow.

1. Find your VIN. It is usually located on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield, inside the driver’s door jamb, or on your vehicle title/registration.


2. Go to official recall databases such as the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) SaferCar.gov recall lookup or Ford’s official owner portal.


3. Enter your VIN to view all recalls that apply to your specific vehicle. If an active recall is listed, schedule service with a Ford dealer or an authorized repair facility.


4. If a recall is found, contact a dealer promptly. Recalls are performed at no charge to the vehicle owner, even if the warranty has expired.

Because recall statuses can change with new campaigns, it’s wise to check periodically, especially if you recently purchased the vehicle or just moved to a new area where campaigns have been released.

If you need help interpreting the recall results or want guidance on scheduling service, a trained Ford representative can walk you through the details and the steps to take.

Useful resources to verify recalls

The following resources provide authoritative information and tools to verify recalls for a 2008 Ford Escape. Using VIN-based checks is the most reliable method to determine current open recalls.

• NHTSA SaferCar.gov recall database


• Ford Owner Service and Recall page


• Ford Customer Service phone line for recalls


• Direct dealer assistance and appointment scheduling

These resources help you verify, monitor, and schedule any required recall work at no cost to you.

Summary

For the 2008 Ford Escape, recalls have occurred in the past, and open recalls depend on your vehicle’s VIN. The only reliable way to know your status is to run a VIN-based check through official databases and, if needed, contact a Ford dealer to arrange the required free repairs. Regularly checking these resources and keeping your contact information up to date with Ford can ensure you receive recall notices promptly.

If you’d like, I can guide you through a step-by-step VIN check using the databases you choose or help you interpret recall results once you share the VIN (and your country of residence).

What is a common problem with the 2008 Ford Escape?

Common problems for the 2008 Ford Escape include transmission failures, ignition misfires, and a blower motor that only works on high. Other issues reported by owners are problems with the 4WD transfer case, engine hesitation, and a failing coolant pump on the hybrid model. 
This video discusses common problems with the 2008-2012 Ford Escape, including ignition coils: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jan 17, 2023
Powertrain and engine issues 

• Transmission failure: This is one of the most frequently reported problems, with issues ranging from rough shifting and slipping to complete failure. 
• Ignition misfires: Owners report issues like hesitation, stumbling while driving, and the check engine light coming on due to misfires. 
• 4WD transfer case problems: Vehicles with all-wheel drive have a known internal transfer case issue. 
• Hybrid-specific problems: The hybrid model may experience a coolant pump failure that triggers the check engine light and can cause the engine to shut down. 

Other common problems

• Blower motor failure: The most common symptom is the blower motor only working on the highest speed setting. 
• Rust: Some owners have reported rust, particularly on the undercarriage and rear wheel wells. 
• Exhaust manifold and heat shields: These components can be problematic and may require replacement. 

This video shows how to diagnose and repair a common issue with the 2008-2012 Ford Escape's AC system: 59sValley Mobile AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 19, 2024

What is a 2008 Ford Escape worth today?

2008 Ford Escape Value - $877-$2,805 | Edmunds.

How do I check if my Ford Escape has a recall?

Recent Ford Escape recalls include an underhood fire risk in certain 2020–2022 models with 1.5-liter engines, a high-voltage battery short circuit risk in 2020–2024 plug-in hybrids, and issues with brake linings or a start/stop accumulator on other models. Ford will contact owners via mail for safety recalls and provides a VIN checker on its website for owners to verify if their vehicle is affected.
 
Recent recalls

• 2020–2022 Escape (1.5L Engine): A recall for a fire risk due to cracked fuel injectors that can leak fuel under the hood. An interim software update is being provided, with a permanent fix under development. 
• 2020–2024 Escape PHEV: A recall for a risk of high-voltage battery short-circuiting, which could cause a fire. A previous software update was insufficient, and a new remedy is being developed. 
• 2025 Escape: A recall for issues with stability control and brake assist, which could make the vehicle difficult to control. 
• 2021–2022 Escape: A recall for incorrectly manufactured rear brake linings that can affect braking performance. 
• 2020 Escape: A recall for a transmission issue where missing or loose bolts in the start/stop accumulator endcap may occur. 

How to check for recalls

• Online VIN checker: Use the Ford's safety recall checker or the RepairPal recall checker by entering your vehicle's VIN or license plate number. 
• Mail notification: Ford will mail a notice to the registered owner of the vehicle if a safety recall applies to it. The notice will provide details about the defect, repair timeline, and instructions on how to get the repair done at no cost. 

What are the recalls on a 2008 Ford Escape?

Ford Motor Company (ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford escape and mercury mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input.