Does a 2014 Ford Escape have a thermostat?

Yes. The 2014 Ford Escape uses a conventional mechanical thermostat inside a thermostat housing to regulate engine coolant flow and maintain proper engine temperature.

The cooling system in the Escape, like most gasoline-powered cars, relies on a thermostat to control when coolant flows through the radiator. This helps the engine reach its optimal operating temperature quickly and stay there, while also ensuring effective cabin heating and preventing overheating. Different engine options for the 2014 Escape share this basic design, though exact opening temperatures can vary slightly by variant.

Where the thermostat lives in the 2014 Escape

The thermostat is housed in the thermostat housing on the engine, typically at the end of the upper radiator hose. Access is usually straightforward from the engine bay, though some trims may require removing a cover or ducting to reach it.

Here is a concise guide to location and common indicators of a thermostat issue:

• Location: Thermostat housing on the engine, usually where the upper radiator hose attaches to the engine block or cylinder head.


• Operation: A temperature-controlled valve that opens to let coolant flow to the radiator once the engine warms up.


• Symptoms of a failing thermostat: Overheating or running too cold, erratic temperature gauge, poor cabin heating, reduced heater performance, or coolant leaks near the housing.


• Replacement considerations: Use OEM Ford thermostat and gasket, properly drain/refill coolant, and inspect for related cooling-system wear (water pump, hoses, radiator).

Conclusion: Locating and understanding the thermostat helps with diagnosing cooling issues and planning maintenance or replacement steps.

Diagnosing thermostat issues: what to watch for

While no single symptom conclusively proves a faulty thermostat, persistent engine overheating, stuck-open or stuck-closed behavior, or heater problems are strong indicators. Professional diagnosis can confirm thermostat operation using temperature readings and, if needed, cooling-system pressure tests.

To help with self-checks, you can look for:

• Gauge behavior: Temperature gauge rising to the red zone unusually quickly or taking too long to reach normal operating temperature.


• Hose behavior: Upper radiator hose becoming hot only after engine warms up, or being hot while the engine is still cold (suggesting thermostat issues).


• Leaks or gasket issues: Coolant puddles around the thermostat housing or under the engine.

Conclusion: If you observe any of these signs, have the cooling system inspected and consider thermostat replacement as part of a broader service interval.

Replacement and maintenance notes

Replacing the thermostat is a routine maintenance task when cooling-system issues arise. Steps typically include draining coolant, removing the old thermostat and gasket, installing a new thermostat in the correct orientation, replacing the gasket, refilling coolant with the recommended type, and bleeding or venting the cooling system as required. It’s advisable to check for leaks after installation and to replace any worn hoses or the water pump if needed.

Conclusion: Proper part selection and coolant handling are essential; use Ford-approved parts and reference the owner’s manual for the exact coolant specification and service interval.

Summary

In short, the 2014 Ford Escape does have a thermostat as part of its cooling system. It sits in the engine’s thermostat housing, opens at a characteristic temperature to regulate coolant flow, and plays a key role in maintaining efficient engine operation and heater performance. If you notice overheating, inconsistent temperature readings, or poor cabin heat, inspect the thermostat and broader cooling system and consider professional service if needed.

How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in a Ford Escape?

The total cost to replace a Ford Escape thermostat typically ranges from $150 to over $700, depending on the vehicle's model year and labor rates. The cost includes the part itself, which can range from about $15 to $300 or more, and labor, which often runs between $65 and $100 per hour. Some modern vehicles may require a whole thermostat housing assembly, which can increase the price significantly. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost of the thermostat is highly variable. 
  • Basic Thermostat: Can range from about $15 to $50. 
  • Thermostat Housing Assembly: Some models have an integrated housing that may cost more, with some assemblies exceeding $100 and even reaching thousands of dollars. 
• Labor: The price depends on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
  • Hourly Rate: Generally between $65 and $100. 
  • Time: The job typically takes one to three hours. 
• Additional costs:
  • Coolant: You will need to purchase new coolant, which can add to the overall cost. 
  • Hoses: If any hoses are old or damaged, you may need to replace them as well, adding to the expense. 
  • Diagnostic and Programming: Some modern vehicles may require reprogramming after the part is installed, which can add to the final bill. 

Factors that influence cost

• Vehicle model year: The cost can differ significantly depending on the year of the Ford Escape. 
• Type of thermostat: The cost varies based on the type and features of the thermostat you choose. 
• Labor rates: Shop and dealer labor rates can differ by region and are a significant factor in the total price. 
• Complexity of the repair: If the thermostat is difficult to access or is part of a larger assembly, labor time and cost will increase. 

How to save money

• Do it yourself: If you have the right tools and mechanical knowledge, you can save on labor costs by replacing the thermostat yourself.
• Get multiple quotes: It is always a good idea to get quotes from several different mechanics or shops to compare prices before committing to a repair. 

How much is a thermostat for a 2014 Ford Escape?

The range of prices of Thermostats for the 2014 Ford Escape goes from $43.99 up to $99.18 for the most premium parts.

Where is the engine thermostat located?

The engine thermostat is typically located in the thermostat housing where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine block. To find it, follow the upper radiator hose from the radiator to where it attaches to the engine; the thermostat is inside this housing. 
You can watch this video to see how to locate the thermostat on a car: 55sTurboChannelYouTube · Aug 26, 2008

• Follow the upper radiator hose: This is the most common location. The hose carries hot coolant from the engine to the radiator, and the thermostat housing is where it connects to the engine. 
• Look for the housing: It's a metal or plastic component, often secured by bolts, that contains the thermostat. 
• Consider the lower hose: On some vehicles, the thermostat may be located at the point where the lower radiator hose connects to the engine. 

This video demonstrates how to replace a thermostat after locating it: 55sThe Flats at RidgeviewYouTube · May 3, 2020

What is the most common problem with the 2014 Ford Escape?

The Most Common Engine Issues With 2014 Escapes
The NHTSA has 307 specific complaints related to the engine of the 2014 Ford Escape. Among these complaints are issues with coolant leaking into the engine bay and causing fires and problems with overheating at mileages as low as 65,000 and below.