Home FAQ

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Ford Escape?

The most commonly reported problem is transmission trouble—specifically shuddering, hesitation, and rough shifting reported by a number of owners.

The 2013 Ford Escape has also drawn attention for infotainment and electrical glitches, particularly with the MyFordTouch system. This article reviews the issues most frequently cited in owner reports and recall data up to 2024 to provide a current snapshot of the model’s reliability challenges.

Most frequently reported problems

The following list highlights the issues most often cited by owners and investigated in recalls and consumer reports for the 2013 Escape.

Transmission problems: Automatic transmission shuddering, hesitation, and rough shifting are the most commonly reported mechanical issues.

Infotainment and electrical problems: MyFordTouch/Sync system issues, including touchscreen lag, freezes, reboot loops, and intermittent loss of connectivity.

These problems account for the bulk of documented complaints and recall notes for the model year, though individual experiences can vary based on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history.

What to consider if you’re buying used

If you’re evaluating a used 2013 Escape, have a qualified mechanic specifically check the transmission’s shifting behavior and listen for unusual noises. Also test the MyFordTouch system for responsiveness and confirm that any related recalls or software updates have been completed.

Summary

For the 2013 Ford Escape, the transmission-related issues are the most frequently reported mechanical problem, followed closely by infotainment/electrical glitches tied to the MyFordTouch system. Prospective buyers and owners should prioritize transmission health and ensure infotainment updates or recalls have been addressed.

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.

How many miles will a 2013 Ford Escape last?

A 2013 Ford Escape can have a lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, though some owners have reported exceeding this. The lifespan is heavily dependent on factors like regular oil changes, transmission fluid service, and how aggressively the vehicle is driven. Potential issues with the 1.6L engine, such as coolant leaks, should be watched for, especially in earlier models.
Factors influencing lifespan

Maintenance is key: Consistent and timely maintenance is the most critical factor in a vehicle's longevity.
- Engine oil: Regular oil changes are vital for engine health.
- Transmission fluid: Changing the transmission fluid, especially on models with the 6-speed automatic transmission, can help prevent premature failure.
- Other fluids: Replacing other fluids like brake and coolant, following the manufacturer's recommendations, also contributes to a long life.
Driving habits: Aggressive driving can significantly shorten a vehicle's lifespan by putting extra stress on the engine, transmission, and brakes.
Environmental factors: Driving in harsh conditions, such as areas with road salt, can accelerate corrosion.

Potential issues

1.6L engine coolant leaks: The 1.6L engine, used in some 2013 models, can be prone to coolant leaks and overheating due to failures of the water pump and coolant expansion tank, potentially leading to engine failure.
Electrical system: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system, such as sensor malfunctions or power loss.
Transmission: While some original transmissions have lasted for over 200,000 miles, the 6-speed automatic transmission in this model year has been known to have issues.

What to look for in a used 2013 Escape

Maintenance records: Reviewing a vehicle's maintenance history can provide insight into how well it has been cared for.
Professional inspection: Having a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase can identify potential problems, such as an aging suspension or early signs of engine trouble.
Transmission fluid: If the transmission fluid is dark or has a burnt smell, it may indicate potential issues.

What are the bad years for Ford Escape?

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.

What problems do 2013 Ford Escapes have?

The 2013 Ford Escape has numerous reported problems, with many owners citing severe engine issues like stalling, overheating, and coolant leaks, which can lead to engine damage or fire. Other common complaints include electrical system failures, transmission problems, power steering issues, and various other mechanical failures. These widespread issues have resulted in a high number of recalls for this model year.

This video discusses the common engine and transmission problems in the 2013 Ford Escape: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jan 31, 2025
Engine and cooling system

Engine stalling, overheating, and leaks: Owners report engines stalling, losing power, and overheating, sometimes without warning lights.
Coolant leaks: Leaks from the engine, especially in the 1.6L engine, can cause the cylinder head to crack, leading to oil mixing with coolant and a potential fire risk.
Engine damage: Issues can escalate to engine block cracks and blown head gaskets.

Drivetrain and steering

Transmission problems: Some owners have experienced transmission failures, including reports of the transmission dying or leaking fluid due to a faulty axle seal.
Power steering: Problems with the power steering system are commonly reported.
Shifting: Issues have been reported with the shift cable bushing, and there are also reports of the vehicle rolling away unexpectedly.
4WD transfer case: Internal transfer case problems have been reported in 4WD models.

Electrical and other issues

Electrical problems: Many owners have reported a variety of electrical issues, including problems with the infotainment system, radio, and dead batteries that won't hold a charge.
Brakes: The ABS light may stay on, potentially due to a wheel sensor issue, and some owners report shuttering when braking.
Air conditioning: A common problem is the A/C and heating system only working on high or providing inconsistent temperatures.
Door handles: The exterior door handles can stick, bind, or fail to return to their original position.

This video shows the common electrical problems with the 2013 Ford Escape, such as issues with the infotainment system: 59sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Feb 14, 2023

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.