Is there a recall on 2015 Ford Escape transmissions?

Yes. Ford and the U.S. safety regulator have issued recall campaigns that can affect 2015 Ford Escape models equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission. Whether your specific vehicle is included depends on production date, trim, and other factors tied to the VIN, so owners should verify with official sources.

To understand the situation, it helps to know that the 2015 Escape used a six-speed automatic transmission (often referred to as the 6F35 transmission in service literature). Over the years, several recall campaigns have addressed transmission-related concerns for this generation of Escape, but inclusion is VIN-specific. Checking your vehicle’s VIN against official recall databases will tell you whether repairs are required and covered at no cost.

What recalls apply to the 2015 Ford Escape

The following recall categories have historically affected Escapes from this generation. The exact campaigns and VINs vary, so a vehicle may be affected in one region but not another. Owners should verify through official channels.

• Potential transmission slipping, harsh or unintended downshifts, or failure to remain in gear due to transmission control issues.


• Issues related to the transmission control module or valve body that could impact drivability and acceleration.


• Transmission fluid leaks or related sealing concerns that could affect performance or long-term reliability.


• Torque converter or related transmission components that could cause abnormal operation, including shudder or loss of drive.

Because recall eligibility is determined by VIN, not all 2015 Escapes are affected. If your vehicle is included in a recall, Ford will repair it at no charge, regardless of warranty status.

How to check if your 2015 Escape is affected

Before taking action, you should confirm the recall status for your exact vehicle. The steps below outline reliable ways to verify recall coverage.

• Locate your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb, or in your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.


• Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup and enter your VIN to see active recalls: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.


• Query Ford’s official recalls portal with your VIN to see model-specific campaigns and instructions: https://www.ford.com/support/recalls/.


• Contact a local Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm recall eligibility and schedule service if needed.

In addition to VIN checks, be alert for transmission symptoms that might indicate a problem even if a recall isn’t listed for your VIN—such as slipping, harsh shifting, unexpected downshifts, shuddering, or warning lights. If you notice any of these, consult a dealer promptly.

What to do if your transmission is recalled or you notice issues

What to expect at the dealer

If a recall affects your Escape, the remedy will be performed at no cost. Dealers will inspect the affected transmission components and replace or repair them as required, often replacing faulty valve bodies, seals, or related hardware, and updating software if applicable.

• Service is typically performed at a Ford dealer; if you’re out of warranty, recall work remains free of charge.


• Schedule promptly after you receive a recall notice or confirm recall eligibility online.


• Ask for a written summary of the work performed for your records.

Taking timely action not only ensures safety but can prevent more costly repairs later. If you’re unsure whether a recall covers your vehicle, rely on official VIN-based lookups rather than generic model-year listings.

Additional notes on reliability and maintenance

Vehicle recalls are separate from routine maintenance. Even if your 2015 Escape isn’t currently under a recall, routine transmission maintenance—such as checking fluid levels and using the correct fluid specification—can impact longevity and performance. If you’re experiencing persistent transmission concerns outside of recall campaigns, consult a Ford technician for a diagnostic assessment.

Summary

For 2015 Ford Escape owners, recalls related to the six-speed automatic transmission are possible and VIN-dependent. The safest course is to verify your specific VIN against official recall databases (NHTSA and Ford’s recalls portal) and contact a dealer if any recall is listed. If you notice transmission symptoms, seek prompt service, as recall repairs are provided at no charge and can prevent further damage.

Bottom line: check now, and act promptly if a recall or service campaign applies to your Escape. For current information, rely on authoritative sources such as the NHTSA recall database and Ford’s official recall portal.

What year did the Ford Escape have a bad transmission?

Years with common Ford Escape transmission problems include 2008, 2013, and 2014, which are frequently cited for complete failure, rough shifting, and shuddering. Other models with reported issues include 2006, 2009, and 2017, which may experience slipping gears, erratic shifting, or acceleration and fluid leaks.
 
This video discusses common Ford Escape transmission issues from 2011-2018: 1mBig Ben's Cars & CyclesYouTube · Jun 21, 2023
Model years to be cautious of

• 2006-2009: Models in this range are prone to issues like slipping gears and erratic shifting, especially the 2008 and 2009 years. The 2008 is frequently cited for transmission failures and other problems like steering and A/C issues. 
• 2013-2014: These years have been linked to transmission problems such as shuddering, delayed shifting, and complete failure. The 2014 model, in particular, has a history of multiple recalls and issues. 
• 2017: Some owners have reported problems like harsh acceleration and transmission fluid leaks. 
• 2020: Early models of this year have been noted for harsh shifting and early wear. 

Other potential concerns

• 2015: A recall was issued for certain 2015 models due to a shifter cable bushing that could degrade and prevent the vehicle from shifting into "Park". 
• 2016: Some 2016 models have experienced complete transmission failure, often attributed to internal component wear or software issues. 
• 6F35 Transmission: This automatic transmission, used in many models, has been a point of discussion for its potential to fail. 

Is there a recall on the 2015 Ford Escape transmission?

A recall was issued for certain 2015 Ford Escapes (specifically those with a 2.0L engine) due to a potential issue with the shifter cable bushing, which could degrade and detach. This can cause the transmission to be in a different gear than indicated, or not be in Park even if the shifter is in Park, creating a risk of the vehicle rolling away unexpectedly. The free remedy is for dealers to replace the shifter cable bushing and a protective cap.
 
You can watch this video to see a demonstration of the recall repair on a Ford Escape: 1mHow To Escape: DIY, Tips, and ReviewsYouTube · Jul 11, 2022
What the recall is for

• Problem: The bushing that connects the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade and break. 
• Risk: If the bushing detaches, the transmission can move out of the selected gear, or the vehicle might not be in Park even when the shifter indicates it is. This can cause the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. 

What to do

• Contact a Ford dealer: The recall repair is free and includes replacing the shifter cable bushing and adding a protective cap. 
• Use the parking brake: Until the repair is completed, use the parking brake every time you park the vehicle. 
• Check your VIN: To see if your specific vehicle is affected, you can check for recalls by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Ford website or other recall checkers like RepairPal. 

This video discusses the impact of the recall on Ford Escape transmissions: 28sHow To Escape: DIY, Tips, and ReviewsYouTube · Sep 2, 2022

How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2015 Ford Escape?

A 2015 Ford Escape transmission replacement can cost between $3,000 and $7,000, including parts and labor, with a wide range depending on whether you choose a new, remanufactured, or used transmission. Dealerships typically have higher costs due to using official parts, while independent shops and transmission specialists may offer lower prices, with some quotes ranging from approximately $2,600 to $7,800 for a complete replacement. 
Cost breakdown by option
This video discusses the cost and options for replacing a Ford Escape transmission: 1mHow To Escape: DIY, Tips, and ReviewsYouTube · Apr 27, 2024

• Dealership (New/Factory Rebuilt): These are often the most expensive option, with estimates potentially reaching $7,800 or more, but they come with official parts and manufacturer-backed warranties. 
• Independent Shop (Remanufactured): Using a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission from a specialist shop is often a more affordable choice. Prices for remanufactured transmissions can range from about $2,600 to $3,000 for the part alone, with total costs including labor falling within the $3,000 to $7,000 range. 
• Independent Shop (Used): Replacing the transmission with a pre-owned unit is typically the cheapest option, but the cost will depend on the mileage and condition of the used part. A used transmission can cost between $1,700 and $2,200, not including labor. 
• Labor: Labor is a significant factor, with the average labor time for this job estimated at 12.6 hours. Labor rates vary by shop, but budgeting for about 13 hours of labor is advisable. 

What to consider

• Warranty: Check if any part of the repair is covered under a warranty before starting.
• Labor rates: Get quotes from different shops to compare labor costs, which can vary significantly.
• Part type: Decide whether a new, remanufactured, or used transmission is the right choice for your budget and needs.
• Shop type: Contact both dealerships and independent transmission shops for quotes to find the best price and service for your vehicle. 

What is the recall on the 2015 Ford transmission?

Several transmission-related recalls affected 2015 Ford models, with the most significant one (recall 22S43) addressing a potentially faulty shifter cable bushing that could cause a loss of gear selection and a rollaway risk. Other recalls included a calibration problem for 2015 F-250 to F-550 Super Duty trucks, a flexible coupling issue on some Transit vehicles, and a separate issue for the 2015 Focus with software and clutch replacement. 
This video explains Ford's recall for the shifter cable bushing issue: 1mHow To Escape: DIY, Tips, and ReviewsYouTube · Jul 11, 2022
Shifter cable bushing recall (22S43)

• Vehicles affected: 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge.
• Problem: The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade or detach.
• Safety risk: If the bushing is damaged or missing, the shifter may not move the transmission into the intended gear, and the vehicle could roll away even if the shifter is in "Park".
• Solution: Ford dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing and protective cap for free. 

Super Duty truck recall

• Vehicles affected: 2015 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty trucks equipped with 6.2L gasoline or 6.7L diesel engines and 6R140 transmissions.
• Problem: A transmission calibration issue.
• Solution: Ford dealerships will fix the calibration problem. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the F-150 transmission downshift recall: 40sWOAY TVYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
Ford Focus recall

• Vehicles affected: 2015 Ford Focus. 
• Problem: Potential issues with the PowerShift automatic transmission, possibly related to prolonged clutch slip. 
• Solution: Ford will notify owners to update the software and replace the clutch if necessary, free of charge. 

Ford Transit recall

• Vehicles affected: 2015-2017 Transit vehicles, excluding 156- and 178-inch wheelbase Chassis Cab and Cut-Away bodies.
• Problem: A flexible coupling connecting the transmission to the driveshaft may fail.
• Solution: The flexible coupling will be replaced on vehicles with over 30,000 miles free of charge. 

How to check for recalls

• You can check for open recalls on your specific vehicle by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Ford support website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.