How many gears does a 2009 Ford Escape have?
The 2009 Ford Escape generally uses four forward gears in its standard automatic transmission for non-hybrid models. The Escape Hybrid, however, employs a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that does not have a fixed number of gears. This article explains how the drivetrain options for that model year differ.
Engine options and transmission pairing
The 2009 Escape was offered with two gasoline powertrains that, in non-hybrid form, were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission:
- 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with a four-speed automatic
- 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic
The hybrid version uses a different setup designed for efficiency and power delivery, described below.
Hybrid variant details
The 2009 Escape Hybrid combines the gasoline engine with an electric motor and uses a continuously variable transmission (eCVT) rather than a fixed-gear automatic. As a result, the traditional idea of counting gears does not apply to the hybrid version.
Why this matters for owners and buyers
For everyday driving, the non-hybrid Escape provides four forward gears, which affects acceleration, highway performance, and fuel economy. The hybrid’s eCVT aims to smooth power delivery and optimize efficiency, but operates differently from the four-speed automatic.
Summary
In the 2009 Ford Escape lineup, four forward gears were standard on non-hybrid models via a four-speed automatic transmission. The Escape Hybrid uses an eCVT with no fixed number of gears. When discussing gears for this model year, distinguish between these drivetrains to avoid confusion.
Is a 2009 Ford Escape front-wheel drive or rear wheel drive?
Front Wheel Drive
Average Price Paid
| Exterior Colors | |
| Drivetrain | Front Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| MPG | 20 City / 28 Hwy |
| Body Style | 4 Door |
How many miles should a 2009 Ford Escape last?
A 2009 Ford Escape can have a lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more with consistent maintenance, but it can vary depending on driving habits and care. With proper maintenance, such as regular oil changes and fluid flushes, it is possible to reach over 200,000 miles. Some owners of this generation have reported success with high mileage, but it is important to note that certain engine types or maintenance practices may lead to more issues than others.
Factors affecting lifespan
- Maintenance: Regular service, including oil changes, tire rotations, and replacing parts like the timing chain, can significantly extend the life of the vehicle.
- Engine type: The 3.0L V6 engine is often considered more reliable than the 4-cylinder in this model year by some owners.
- Driving habits: Smooth acceleration and braking, and avoiding harsh conditions, can reduce wear and tear.
- Environment: Harsh weather conditions, like extreme heat or cold, can accelerate the breakdown of certain components.
- Repairs: While the engine and transmission can be repaired, issues can arise with other components like the master cylinder, ABS module, or rust, which can be expensive to fix.
What type of transmission does a 2009 Ford Escape have?
The 2009 Ford Escape was equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission (the 6F35 model) for both the 4-cylinder and V6 engines. Vehicles with the 3.0L V6 engine also use this 6-speed automatic, but there were specific variations based on engine size and drivetrain.
- Engine: Both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and 3.0L V6 engines used a 6-speed automatic transmission.
- Model: The specific transmission model was the 6F35.
- Drivetrain: The transmission was available for both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
What year of Ford Escape to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Ford Escape include the 2005, 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2020-2022 models due to a high number of complaints and recalls for serious issues like engine failure, transmission problems, and steering loss. Other problematic years often cited are 2016, 2017, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
This video explains why you should be careful when buying a used Ford Escape and which model years to avoid: 1mCar Lensy YouTube · Apr 23, 2025
Ford Escape years to avoid
- 2005: Prone to severe rust-related structural failures, leading to a risk of steering loss.
- 2008: High number of complaints for transmission and steering system issues.
- 2013 & 2014: Known for significant engine and transmission problems, with the 2013 model even seeing a risk of engine fires.
- 2016, 2017, and the 2020-2022 models: Have significant engine and transmission issues.
- 2020-2022: Suffer from engine and transmission problems, oil leaks, and infotainment glitches.
- 2021 & 2022: Mentioned as years to avoid, potentially due to continuing issues from the redesign generation.
General problems to watch for
- Engine issues: Overheating, coolant leaks, and engine failure are common complaints, particularly in 1.6L EcoBoost engines from 2013-2019.
- Transmission problems: High failure rates have been reported across several model years, including the 2008-2014 models.
- Steering and electrical issues: Some years have had problems with power steering loss or other electrical glitches.
- Structural problems: Rust, especially in the subframe, has been a significant issue on certain models.
