Is the 2013 Ford Escape reliable?
The 2013 Ford Escape is generally considered a reliable and well-performing compact SUV. According to reviews and owner feedback, the 2013 Escape offers a comfortable ride, good fuel efficiency, and a range of useful features that make it a practical choice for many buyers.
Reliability Ratings and Owner Feedback
The 2013 Ford Escape has received above-average reliability ratings from industry experts and owners. J.D. Power and Associates gave the 2013 Escape a reliability score of 4 out of 5, indicating "better than most" reliability. Owners have also reported generally positive experiences, with many praising the Escape's dependability and low maintenance costs.
Common Issues and Recalls
Like any vehicle, the 2013 Ford Escape has experienced some minor issues and recalls over the years. Some common problems reported by owners include:
- Transmission issues, such as hesitation or jerking during gear changes
- Electrical problems, including issues with the infotainment system or battery
- Occasional engine stalling or misfiring
However, these issues appear to be relatively infrequent, and Ford has addressed many of them through recalls and technical service bulletins. Overall, the 2013 Escape's reliability is considered above average for its class.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs
The 2013 Ford Escape is generally affordable to maintain and operate. According to industry data, the average annual maintenance and repair costs for a 2013 Escape are around $500, which is on par with other compact SUVs in its class. Owners have also reported that the Escape's fuel efficiency, which ranges from 21 to 26 mpg combined, helps keep ownership costs down.
Overall, the 2013 Ford Escape is a reliable and practical compact SUV that offers a good balance of performance, features, and ownership costs. While no vehicle is perfect, the Escape's above-average reliability ratings and generally positive owner feedback suggest it is a solid choice for those in the market for a used compact SUV.
How long will a 2013 Ford Escape last?
150,000 - 200,000 miles
Average Mileage Expectations Over Time
| Model Year | Average Mileage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 and older | 150,000 - 200,000 miles | Basic features, less efficient engine |
| 2014-2017 | 200,000 - 250,000 miles | Improved engine efficiency, enhanced safety features |
| 2018 and newer | 250,000 - 300,000 miles | Advanced technology, better fuel efficiency |
Is a Ford Escape 2013 a good car?
The 2013 Ford Escape generally received positive reviews for its agile handling, comfortable and quiet ride, and upscale interior, with praise for its fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines and available features like the hands-free liftgate. However, some concerns exist regarding reliability, particularly with the transmission, and a few reviews note potential issues like coolant leaks or a firm ride on rough roads.
Positive aspects
- Performance and handling: Many reviewers found the 2013 Escape to be fun-to-drive, agile, and athletic, with a composed and smooth ride. The available EcoBoost engines offer a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
- Interior: The cabin is noted for its quietness and high-quality materials, with some reviews suggesting it feels more luxurious than its class. There is ample space in the back seat, and comfortable front seats are a plus.
- Technology and features: The Escape offered a long list of desirable options, including the MyFord Touch system, a hands-free liftgate, and various safety and driver-assistance features.
- Fuel economy: The EcoBoost engine options were praised for being fuel-efficient.
This video provides an in-depth review of the 2013 Ford Escape's driving experience and features: 58sCottage and CompanyYouTube · Mar 31, 2013
Negative aspects and common issues
- Transmission problems: Multiple sources highlight that the transmission was a specific area of concern, with some owners reporting major issues and a significant number of complaints filed.
- Reliability concerns: While some owners report good long-term reliability, others note it as a potential weakness, with some models experiencing problems such as stalling or coolant leaks.
- Comfort: Some reviews found the ride to be less smooth on rough roads, while others found the driver's seat uncomfortable on long trips.
- Interior controls: Some reviewers found the climate controls to be awkwardly placed.
- Back seat: While spacious for its class, the center rear seat can be a tight fit for a fifth passenger.
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 a common problem with a 2013 Ford Escape?
Common problems for the 2013 Ford Escape include transmission issues, particularly hesitation and failures of the 6F35 transmission. The 1.6L engine is also a major concern due to frequent coolant leaks, leading to overheating and potential engine fires. Other common complaints involve ignition misfires, engine stumbling, steering problems, and electrical system failures.
This video discusses common problems including engine, transmission, and electrical issues in Ford Escape vehicles: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jan 31, 2025
Engine and cooling system
- Coolant leaks: The 1.6L engine is prone to coolant leaks from components like the water pump, thermostat housing, and heater hoses, which can cause overheating.
- Engine overheating and stalling: Leaks can lead to overheating, even after recalls and repairs. Stalling and hesitation are also reported.
- Ignition misfires: Many owners report ignition misfires, which can cause the check engine light to illuminate and lead to engine stumbling.
- Head gasket failure: Severe overheating can lead to head gasket failure.
Transmission
- Hesitation and shifting issues: The 6F35 automatic transmission is known for hesitation and rough shifting.
- Torque converter failure: The torque converter is a reported failure point.
This video discusses common transmission problems in Ford Escape vehicles: 59sBig Ben's Cars & CyclesYouTube · Jun 21, 2023
Steering and suspension
- Power steering problems: Reports of issues with the power steering system are common.
- Premature wear: Expect potential premature failure of components like shocks, struts, ball joints, and wheel bearings.
Electrical and other issues
- Faulty wiring: The vehicle has been linked to faulty wiring harnesses and other electrical system failures.
- Infotainment system: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system.
- Transfer case problems: 4WD models have reported issues with the internal transfer case.
- Braking problems: Shuddering when braking can occur.
