Is there a recall on Ford Escape transmission?

As of February 27, 2025, there is no known widespread recall on the transmission of the Ford Escape. However, some specific issues with the Escape's transmission have been reported and addressed by Ford in the past.

Transmission Issues with the Ford Escape

The Ford Escape, a popular compact SUV, has faced some transmission-related problems over the years. Ford has issued several recalls and technical service bulletins to address these issues. Some of the key transmission problems reported with the Escape include:

• Transmission slipping or jerking during acceleration,


• Transmission not shifting properly or getting stuck in gear,


• Transmission fluid leaks,


• Transmission overheating and causing the vehicle to go into limp mode,

These issues have primarily affected Escape models from the 2013 to 2019 model years. Ford has worked to address these problems through recalls, software updates, and other technical service actions.

Ford's Response and Recalls

While there is no current widespread recall on the Ford Escape transmission, Ford has taken steps to address specific issues in the past. Some notable actions include:

• Recall in 2016 for a software issue that could cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift


• Technical service bulletin in 2018 for a transmission fluid leak issue


• Recall in 2019 for a problem with the transmission torque converter that could cause the vehicle to lose power

Ford has worked to identify and resolve these transmission-related problems through recalls, software updates, and other service actions. Owners of affected Escape models have been advised to contact their local Ford dealer for any necessary repairs or updates.

What year do Ford Escapes have transmission problems?

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. 

What is the current recall on Ford Escape?

The most recent major Ford Escape recalls are for: a potential underhood fire risk due to cracked fuel injectors in certain 2020–2022 models with a 1.5L engine (recall 25S76), an issue with the rearview camera not displaying an inverted image on some 2025 models (recall 25V161000), and a potential high voltage battery short circuit that could lead to a fire or loss of drive power in some 2020-2024 models (recall 24V954000). Owners can check for open recalls on their specific vehicle by entering the VIN on the Ford support website.
 
Recent recalls

• Cracked Fuel Injectors (2020-2022 Escape): A recall (25S76) was issued for 2020–2022 Ford Escapes with 1.5L engines due to a risk of underhood fire from cracked fuel injectors. A software update is available to help detect cracked injectors, and a new remedy is being developed for the issue. 
• Rearview Camera Malfunction (2025 Escape): A recall (25V161000) affects certain 2025 Escapes where the rearview camera may display an inverted image in reverse, reducing visibility. 
• High Voltage Battery Issue (2020-2024 Escape): Recall 24V954000 addresses a manufacturing defect in the high voltage battery cells of certain 2020–2024 Escapes. This can cause a short circuit, leading to battery failure, a potential loss of drive power, or an increased risk of fire. 
• Engine Failure (2020-2023 Escape): Some 2.5L HEV/PHEV models from 2020-2023 are part of a recall for engine failure risk. The failure can release engine oil and fuel vapor, potentially leading to an underhood fire. 
• Other recalls: Other recalls have been issued for issues like misaligned cruise control radar modules and incorrectly manufactured rear brake linings, but the most recent and significant ones are listed above. 

How to check for recalls

• Visit the Ford support website and enter your vehicle's 17-digit VIN. 
• Ford will also send a notification by mail if your vehicle is affected by a safety recall. 
• You can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. 

What is the transmission lawsuit on the Ford Escape?

There are multiple lawsuits against Ford concerning transmission problems, notably a class-action lawsuit for 2010-2020 Ford Fusion and 2009-2021 Ford Escape models with the 6F35 transmission. A separate lawsuit addresses the 10R80 transmission in 2017 and newer Ford vehicles. These suits allege that Ford concealed design and manufacturing defects that lead to problems like rough shifting, slipping, and other performance issues. 
Key details of the lawsuits 
This video discusses a class action lawsuit regarding Ford's 10-speed transmission: 39sSina Rez LawYouTube · Nov 1, 2025

• 6F35 Transmission Lawsuit:
  • Affected Vehicles: 2010-2020 Ford Fusion and 2009-2021 Ford Escape models. 
  • Allegations: The lawsuit claims a fundamental design failure in the 6F35 transmission that causes various symptoms, and that Ford was aware of the issues. 
  • Status: The lawsuit is ongoing, and the plaintiffs are seeking damages and injunctive relief. 
• 10R80 Transmission Lawsuit:
  • Affected Vehicles: Ford vehicles from model year 2017 or newer equipped with the 10R80 transmission. 
  • Allegations: Plaintiffs claim the transmission has design and manufacturing defects leading to erratic shifting and gear slipping, and that Ford concealed this. 
• PowerShift Transmission Lawsuit:
  • Affected Vehicles: Primarily Ford Focus and Fiesta models with the DPS6 dual-clutch transmission. 
  • Status: A settlement was approved in April 2020, but claims may still be accepted under specific circumstances. It is separate from the 6F35 and 10R80 lawsuits. 

What you can do

• Determine if your vehicle is affected: Check if your vehicle is listed in one of the lawsuits. Some cases may include vehicles with transmissions that are "very similar" to the 6F35, even if not a perfect match. 
• Contact a lawyer: If you believe your vehicle has a defective transmission, consider contacting a law firm that is handling these cases to understand your options. 
• File a complaint with the NHTSA: You can also file a safety complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to report transmission problems. 
• Provide information: Keep records of any repair attempts, service bulletins, and other relevant documentation. 

What is the recall on the Ford Escape transmission?

Ford has announced that 97 vehicles have been affected by a Transmission recall. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Edge, Transit Connect and Lincoln MKX and 2020 Escape and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing or loose bolts.