Was 2014 a good year for the Ford Escape?

Yes. The 2014 Ford Escape proved to be a solid year for the model, delivering strong fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a refreshed feature set, though it carried some reliability caveats tied to its infotainment system and certain powertrain options.

The following article examines performance, technology, safety, market reception, and owner feedback from that model year to assess whether it stood out in a competitive compact SUV segment.

Performance and efficiency

To meet diverse buyer needs, Ford offered multiple engines and a hybrid option in 2014, balancing power with fuel savings.

• A base four-cylinder engine provided adequate daily performance for city and highway driving.


• Turbocharged EcoBoost options — a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter — delivered stronger acceleration and improved highway confidence while still aiming for good efficiency.


• A hybrid powertrain combined the traditional engine with electric assist for enhanced fuel economy, appealing to buyers prioritizing efficiency.

Overall, the Escape’s range of powertrains gave buyers choices that could align with budgets, performance preferences, and fuel-economy goals, contributing to broad appeal within the class.

Technology and interior

The interior technology and controls were a defining feature of the 2014 Escape, with Ford’s Sync/MyFord Touch system playing a central role in the cabin experience.

• MyFord Touch offered modern touchscreen controls, smartphone integration, and available navigation, but it was frequently criticized for slow response and occasional glitches at launch-era hardware.


• Interior space remained competitive for a compact SUV, with ample seating comfort and versatile cargo space for daily use and weekend trips.


• Available driver-assistance features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, rearview camera, and Ford’s safety packages that added peace of mind for families and commuters.

Technology was a strong selling point for many buyers, but the infotainment system’s reliability concerns tempered enthusiasm for some and prompted discussions about long-term usability.

Reliability and safety

When considering long-term reliability and safety, the 2014 Escape drew mixed assessments and remained under scrutiny for certain components.

• Overall reliability ratings from consumer- and industry sources tended to be average in the segment, with some owners reporting infotainment-related issues as well as occasional drivetrain or electrical gremlins.


• Standard safety features were strong for the era, including multiple airbags, stability control, and available advanced safety technologies in higher trims.


• Like many modern vehicles, the Escape was subject to recalls for specific production runs; buyers and owners were advised to check the vehicle’s recall history and confirm any open campaigns with the manufacturer or NHTSA.

Reliability remained a variable story for the 2014 Escape, but its solid safety features and alert engineering kept it competitive within the segment.

Market reception and sales

In the crowded compact-SUV field, the Escape continued to perform well and attract buyers seeking efficiency and practicality.

• Sales in the United States remained solid for the model year, with the Escape consistently ranking among the better-selling compact SUVs in its class.


• Critics frequently praised fuel economy and cargo versatility, while some reviews noted the infotainment experience could be frustrating for some users.


• Competition from rivals such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue kept the Escape under steady scrutiny and attention from buyers shopping for value in 2014.

With efficient powertrains and practical space, the Escape held its own in a hot segment, even as technology-related concerns influenced some purchasing decisions.

Ownership considerations

Prospective buyers and used-car shoppers in 2014-model Escapes should weigh certain factors to determine fit and value.

• Prioritize a test drive that includes the MyFord Touch system to gauge responsiveness and usability across typical tasks.


• Review the vehicle’s maintenance and recall history, as infotainment glitches and other component issues were noted by some owners.


• Consider the hybrid variant if excellent fuel economy is a key goal, but compare total cost of ownership against the conventional engines.


• Inspect interior materials and seaming, as wear can be more noticeable in some trim levels over time.

For used-buyers, a careful check of technology performance, maintenance records, and recall status can help ensure a satisfying ownership experience with the 2014 Escape.

Summary

The 2014 Ford Escape delivered strong fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and practical cargo space that resonated with many buyers in a competitive segment. Its engine lineup offered flexibility between efficiency and performance, and technology features were contemporary for the era. However, reliability concerns centered on the MyFord Touch infotainment system and some powertrain experiences, which tempered the overall appeal for a portion of buyers. Taken together, 2014 was a good year for the Escape in terms of efficiency and practicality, with caveats that potential buyers and owners should consider—especially around technology and long-term reliability.

Are 2014 Ford Escapes any good?

The 2014 Ford Escape receives mixed reviews, with pros including a sporty and confident ride, spacious interior, and available high-tech features like a 110V power outlet. However, common drawbacks include the frustrating MyFord Touch infotainment system and potential reliability issues, particularly concerning the cooling system and transmissions. Other cons include a choppy ride on base models and difficult installation of child seats in the rear.
 
This video reviews the 2014 Ford Escape, focusing on its performance and handling: 59sRedline ReviewsYouTube · Jun 25, 2013
Pros

• Performance and handling: Praised for being a sporty and confident-driving crossover with agile handling, good feedback, and comfortable ride quality. 
• Practicality: Features a spacious interior, especially for its class, and wide-opening rear doors. 
• High-tech features: Offers convenient options like a 110V household plug and standard rearview cameras on all trims for 2014. 
• Engine options: The 2.0L EcoBoost engine offers good performance, and the 1.6L EcoBoost provides a good balance of fuel economy and power. 

Cons

• Infotainment system: The MyFord Touch system is widely considered frustrating and less intuitive than other systems. 
• Reliability issues: Some owners report problems with oil leaks, cooling systems (e.g., thermostat failure), and rough-shifting transmissions. 
• Ride quality: Base models can have a choppy and rougher ride, with larger wheels on higher trims potentially worsening this. 
• Child seat installation: The rear seat design can make it difficult to buckle children into car seats and to connect LATCH anchors. 
• Visibility: The modern, rakish design can compromise visibility. 

You can watch this video to learn about common issues with the 2014 Ford Escape, including cooling system problems: 59sTopLineRacerYouTube · Jul 9, 2024

What is the most common problem with the 2014 Ford Escape?

The Most Common Engine Issues With 2014 Escapes
The NHTSA has 307 specific complaints related to the engine of the 2014 Ford Escape. Among these complaints are issues with coolant leaking into the engine bay and causing fires and problems with overheating at mileages as low as 65,000 and below.

How many miles will a 2014 escape last?

A 2014 Ford Escape can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, but its lifespan depends on factors like driving habits and environmental conditions. Some 1.6L engines have a known issue with coolant leaks and overheating that can lead to engine failure if not addressed promptly. Adhering to the maintenance schedule, including oil changes, and avoiding harsh driving conditions are crucial for maximizing its life. 
Factors influencing life expectancy

• Maintenance: Consistent and timely maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is the most critical factor for longevity. 
• Driving habits: Smooth acceleration and braking will extend the vehicle's life, while aggressive driving or frequent heavy loads can cause premature wear. 
• Environment: Harsh climates with salt or extreme heat can lead to accelerated rust and part wear, so a car kept in a garage may last longer. 

Potential issues to watch for

• Engine overheating: The 1.6L engine in some 2013-2014 models is prone to coolant leaks and overheating, which can cause catastrophic engine damage. A broken timing belt can also be disastrous in this interference engine. 
• Transmission: Some owners have reported transmission issues, with one example showing the need for a rebuild around 200,000 miles. 
• Other components: After 100,000 miles, expect potential wear on parts like suspension components. Other items like the water pump, radiator, and EGR valve may need replacement over the vehicle's life, especially as it ages. 

What year of Ford Escape should I 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.