What years are bad for the Ford Escape?
The Ford Escape has been a popular compact SUV since its debut in 2001, offering a balance of practicality, comfort, and affordability. However, like any vehicle, certain model years have been plagued with issues that make them less desirable for buyers. In this article, we’ll explore the years that are considered problematic for the Ford Escape and why they earned this reputation.
Common Problematic Years for the Ford Escape
While the Ford Escape has generally been a reliable vehicle, some model years have faced recurring issues that have frustrated owners. Based on consumer reports and repair data, the following years stand out as particularly troublesome:
- 2005-2008: These years were notorious for transmission failures, particularly in the 2006 and 2008 models. Owners reported issues with slipping gears, delayed shifting, and complete transmission breakdowns.
- 2013: The 2013 Ford Escape faced significant problems with its EcoBoost engine, including overheating, coolant leaks, and engine fires. This year also saw multiple recalls related to these issues.
- 2014: Continuing from the 2013 model, the 2014 Escape also suffered from engine-related problems, including turbocharger failures and persistent coolant leaks.
- 2017: This year saw complaints about electrical system malfunctions, including issues with the SYNC infotainment system and faulty sensors.
These years are often flagged by mechanics and automotive experts as requiring extra caution if you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Escape.
Why These Years Are Problematic
The issues with these specific Ford Escape model years stem from a variety of factors, including design flaws, manufacturing defects, and the introduction of new technologies that were not fully refined. Here’s a closer look at the main reasons:
- Transmission Failures: The 2005-2008 models were equipped with transmissions that were prone to early failure, often requiring costly repairs or replacements.
- Engine Problems: The introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2013 brought efficiency improvements but also significant reliability issues, such as overheating and coolant leaks.
- Electrical Issues: The 2017 model year saw a rise in complaints about electrical malfunctions, which could affect everything from the infotainment system to critical safety features.
These problems not only lead to expensive repairs but also diminish the overall driving experience and reliability of the vehicle.
Tips for Buying a Used Ford Escape
If you’re in the market for a used Ford Escape, it’s essential to do your homework to avoid problematic years. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Check the Vehicle History Report: Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to review the vehicle’s maintenance history, accident reports, and recall status.
- Have a Pre-Purchase Inspection Done: Take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection before buying.
- Avoid High-Mileage Models: High mileage can exacerbate existing issues, especially in problematic years.
- Research Recalls: Ensure that any recalls for the specific model year have been addressed by the previous owner.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of purchasing a Ford Escape with significant issues.
Conclusion
While the Ford Escape remains a popular choice in the compact SUV market, certain model years have earned a reputation for being less reliable due to recurring issues. If you’re considering a used Ford Escape, it’s best to avoid the 2005-2008, 2013, 2014, and 2017 models unless you’re confident that the necessary repairs and recalls have been addressed. As always, consulting with a trusted mechanic and conducting thorough research can save you from potential headaches down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the negatives with the Ford Escape?
Lows Low-adrenaline driving experience, needlessly stiff ride, hard plastic interior panels in lower trims give off cheap-car vibes. Verdict The Escape checks the key compact SUV boxes on paper, but its second-rate interior, forgettable driving dynamics, and bumpy ride put it behind rivals.
What is the most reliable Ford SUV?
Of their many SUVs, it's the Ford Bronco Sport that takes the crown when it comes to reliability. It outdoes the rest of the lineup by quite a lot and sits as one of the most reliable compact SUVs you can buy.
What is considered high mileage for a Ford?
Consider trucks under 100,000 miles for gas engines and 200,000 for diesel. Ideally, aim for under 60,000 miles to minimize maintenance concerns. Always check the truck's overall condition and maintenance history for the best value. Lucky for you, used Ford trucks are renowned for their longevity.
What years to avoid in a Ford Escape?
The 2013 and 2014 Ford Escape, more generally, have had the toughest time of it all. The former, in fact, is designated "Avoid like the plague" by CarComplaints.com, having generated over 3,000 driver complaints to the US transportation regulator (NHTSA). Cases of engine failure, stalling and fire are legion.
Which Ford model is the most reliable?
Let's take a look at some of the most reliable Ford models, touching on features like fuel efficiency, durability, and performance.
- Ford F-150. The Ford F-150 has been a familiar sight on American roads for decades.
- Ford Explorer.
- Ford Fusion.
- Ford Mustang.
- Ford Escape.
- Ford Ranger.
- Ford Edge.
- Ford Bronco.
What is the best year of Escape to buy?
Your Perfect Escape Awaits
To ensure reliability and performance, consider the 2015, 2019, or 2020 models. These years offer a winning combination of comfort, functionality, and affordability. For the best results, prioritize well-maintained vehicles with clean history reports.
What is the most reliable car model?
Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models
- Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
- Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
- BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.
Is Ford Escape a dependable vehicle?
Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports has given the Escape high marks for reliability, often placing it among the top-rated vehicles in its class. RepairPal: RepairPal's data shows that the Escape has an above-average reliability rating, with lower-than-average repair costs for its class.
How many miles is too many for a used Ford Escape?
Ford Escape Lifespan
With proper care and maintenance, a Ford Escape can easily surpass the 200,000-mile mark. Some owners have even reported driving their Escapes well beyond 300,000 miles. However, it's essential to consider that these are exceptional cases, and the average lifespan can vary significantly.
What is the #1 most reliable SUV?
The most reliable subcompact SUV is the Chevrolet TrailBlazer (8.9 reliability rating), with the Honda CR-V being the most reliable small and compact SUV (9.0 reliability rating). The Toyota 4Runner ranks #1 for the most reliable midsize SUVs (9.4 reliability rating).
