Does Ford Escape have power passenger seat?

Power-adjustable front passenger seat is not standard on every Ford Escape. It is typically available on higher trims or with optional packages, while base S models usually come with a manual passenger seat.

Which Escapes include it depends on model year and trim. This article explains how seating adjustments are configured in recent escapes, how to spot the feature on a car you’re considering, and steps to ensure you get the configuration you want. Availability can vary by market and production year, so always verify for the exact vehicle.

Overview of seating options by trim and year

Below is a high-level guide to how the power front passenger seat has appeared in recent Escape generations. Use this as a starting point when evaluating a new or used model.

• Recent model years (roughly 2020–present): The front passenger seat is usually manual on base S and SE trims. Power-adjustable front passenger seats are commonly available on SEL and Titanium trims when paired with associated packages such as Convenience or Premium packages. The specifics can vary by market and year.


• Earlier generations (roughly 2013–2019): Most Escapes offered manual front passenger seating across trims; power-adjustable front passenger seats were not widely available and, when present, were limited to higher-end configurations.

These patterns are generalizations. The exact availability depends on the model year, trim, and optional packages. Always check the official window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet for the precise equipment on the vehicle you’re considering.

How to verify for a specific vehicle

To confirm whether a particular Ford Escape has a power front passenger seat, use these practical checks and documents.

• Inspect the front passenger seat base for a power seat switch. A cluster of switches on the side of the seat usually indicates power adjustment.


• Review the vehicle’s window sticker or online build sheet for language like “Power Front Passenger Seat,” “Front Passenger Seat: 6-Way Power,” or references to a seat package.


• Look for a package name such as Convenience Package or Premium Package in the listing, which often bundles the power passenger seat with other features.


• If shopping online, verify the exact equipment list for the VIN or model year you’re considering, since features can vary by market and production run.

If you’re buying used, ask for the original window sticker or a VIN-based equipment list to confirm the presence of a power front passenger seat. For new purchases, you can configure the Ford Escape on Ford’s official site and add the feature if it’s offered for that year and trim.

Summary

In short, the Ford Escape does not universally include a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The feature is typically available on higher trims or as part of specific packages, and exact availability varies by model year and market. To ensure you get the configuration you want, verify the seating options on the specific vehicle’s documentation or window sticker.

Practical tip for buyers

When shopping, particularly for used models, always cross-check the VIN-based build sheet or window sticker to confirm whether the Escape includes the power front passenger seat, since listings may not always reflect this detail.

Why is Ford discontinuing the Escape?

Ford is discontinuing the Escape primarily to pivot to electric vehicles (EVs) and retool its Louisville, KY, plant to produce a new $30,000 EV truck. Other contributing factors include declining sales and overlap with the Bronco Sport, which has taken a significant portion of the market share for a similar-sized vehicle. 

• Shift to electric vehicles: Ford is reallocating resources from gasoline-powered models to develop its EV lineup, as demand for them grows. 
• Plant retooling: The plant in Louisville, where the Escape is made, is being retooled to manufacture new electric vehicles, including an upcoming mid-size EV truck. 
• Declining sales: The Escape has faced decreasing sales and is losing ground to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. 
• Overlap with Bronco Sport: The Bronco Sport occupies a similar market space to the Escape, creating internal competition that has reduced the Escape's unique selling proposition. Ford appears to be focusing on niche, more distinct models like the Bronco Sport over more commodified segments. 

Does the Ford Escape have power seats?

Interior Updates
A six-way manual driver seat is standard on Escape Active (replaces an eight-way power seat).

Which Ford escapes to stay away from?

You should avoid Ford Escapes from the 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2016 model years due to significant problems with transmissions, power steering, and electrical systems. Other model years to approach with caution include 2017 for brake and engine issues, 2009 for engine and handling problems, and the 2021-2024 models for potential electrical, fuel system, and other widespread recalls. 
Model years to avoid

• 2008: This model year had more complaints than any other in its generation, with major issues related to its transmission, power steering, and engine. 
• 2009: Continued many of the problems from the previous year, including engine and handling complaints. 
• 2013: Had 16 recalls from the NHTSA, including problems with its electronic systems, and significant mechanical issues like leaks and faulty catalytic converters. 
• 2014: Suffered from severe transmission problems, from minor issues to complete shutdowns. It also had power steering failures, recalls, and other mechanical problems. 
• 2016: Faced a recurrence of the transmission issues from the 2014 model, along with power steering failures and noisy, hard-to-press brakes. 
• 2017: Continued to have the loud brake issues from the previous year and added engine problems where the engine would stumble or stutter. 

Other years to be cautious about

• 2015-2019: While not as problematic as the years above, these models were part of the same generation with a high number of complaints. The EcoBoost engines in some of these years had head gasket issues. 
• 2021-2024: These newer models have had a high number of recalls, including issues with the fuel system, electrical system, and doors. Some 2024 models were also predicted to be less reliable than average. 

Recommendations

• For the most reliable models, look for the 2016 Ford Escape or the newer 2020-2022 models, though the newer models may have higher price tags. 
• If buying a used Escape, get a professional inspection before purchasing, and check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if it falls under any recalls. 

What is the most common problem with Ford Escapes?

The biggest problems with the Ford Escape are transmission failures and engine issues, particularly in specific model years like 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2020–2022. Other common complaints include ignition misfires and, in some hybrid models, fire risks from lithium-ion batteries. 
This video explains some common issues with the Ford Escape, including transmission and engine problems: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jan 31, 2025
Transmission issues

• Widespread problem: Transmission issues are frequently cited as the most significant weakness across multiple model years.
• Symptoms: Drivers report issues like harsh, jerky shifts, and complete failure.
• Timing: For some newer models, critical failures can occur around or after the warranty expires, with replacement costs averaging around $4,000.
• Affected models: Some particularly troublesome years include 2008, 2014, and 2016, but other years are also affected. 

Engine problems

• Ignition misfires: A very common problem reported by owners, often affecting models from 2001 through 2013. 
• Engine failure: Some model years have been associated with more severe engine issues. 
• Other issues: Some models have experienced oil leaks and other engine-related problems. 

This video discusses common engine problems in the Ford Escape: 58sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 10, 2025
Hybrid-specific issues

• Fire risk: A class-action lawsuit alleges that lithium-ion batteries in some hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have a risk of suddenly catching fire. 
• Coolant pump failure: Hybrid models may experience coolant pump failure, which can cause the check engine light to come on and lead to engine shutdown.