How do you adjust the pedals on a Ford Escape?
If your Ford Escape has power-adjustable pedals, you can move the brake and accelerator closer to or farther from you using a dedicated control near the steering column, typically with up/down arrows, while the ignition is on and the vehicle is stationary. If your model does not have this feature, pedals cannot be electronically adjusted and you’ll need to rely on adjusting the seat instead.
What you need to know about pedal adjustment
Power-adjustable pedals move the pedal assembly via an electric actuator. The feature is not available on every trim, so it’s important to verify whether your Escape is equipped with it. Even when equipped, the pedals typically operate only when the vehicle is in a safe mode (ignition on and vehicle stationary) and will not move while you’re driving. If your model lacks this feature, you can still find a comfortable driving position by adjusting the seat, seat height, and steering wheel position.
Model-year and trim variations
Availability and exact controls for pedal adjustment can vary by model year and trim level. Some Escapes offer it as a standard feature on higher trims or as an optional package, while others do not offer power pedals at all. Always check your owner’s manual or your window sticker to confirm whether this feature is present on your vehicle.
Where to locate the pedal adjustment control
The pedal adjustment switch is usually located on the lower left side of the dashboard near the steering column. It’s often labeled PEDALS or POWER PEDALS and may be a small rocker switch or a pair of up/down arrows. In some configurations, you might need to remove a small cover panel to access the control. If your Escape has a memory seat system, the pedal control is typically independent of seat memory and won’t affect stored seat positions.
How to adjust the pedals
Use the following steps to adjust the pedals safely and accurately.
- Park the vehicle and start the engine (or set the ignition to the ON/ACC position) so the pedal actuator is powered.
- Locate the pedal adjustment control on the lower left side of the dash near the steering column.
- Press the up arrow or move the control toward you to bring the pedals closer; press the down arrow or move the control away to push them farther from you. Make small adjustments and pause to gauge your reach.
- Continue adjusting until you have a comfortable, natural foot position for both the brake and the accelerator. Ensure full pedal travel is accessible without feeling cramped.
- If your Escape has a memory function for pedal position, save the new setting by following the owner’s manual instructions (usually a “SET” button with a memory number) so you can recall it later.
Once you’ve found a comfortable position, recheck your stance with the vehicle in Park and test the pedals briefly to ensure you can depress them fully without hitting the steering column or floor mats.
Safety notes and troubleshooting
If you don’t find a pedal adjustment control, or if the pedals do not move when you try to adjust them, your Escape likely does not have power-adjustable pedals on that trim. In that case, optimize your driving position by adjusting the seat and steering wheel. If the pedal mechanism feels sluggish or unresponsive, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealership for inspection, as electrical issues or fuses could be at fault.
Additional tips for comfort and accessibility
For drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel, combining pedal adjustment with seat height, lumbar support, and steering wheel position can significantly improve comfort and control. Always ensure mats are properly secured and won’t impede pedal movement. Never adjust pedals while driving; make these changes only when the vehicle is parked.
Summary
Power-adjustable pedals in the Ford Escape let you fine-tune the distance between your feet and the brake and accelerator using a dedicated control on the dash. If your model supports it, start with ignition on and the vehicle stationary, locate the pedal control, and move the pedals in small increments until you’re comfortably reached. Save your preferred position if your model offers a memory function, and always verify safety by testing the pedals while the vehicle is parked before driving. If your Escape doesn’t have this feature, adjust seating and steering wheel angle to achieve a comfortable driving position.
