What years were bad for Ford Escapes?
The Ford Escape has been a popular compact SUV since its debut in 2001, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and affordability. However, like any vehicle, certain model years have been plagued by recurring issues that have frustrated owners and tarnished the vehicle's reputation. In this article, we’ll explore the years that are considered problematic for the Ford Escape and why they earned this reputation.
Common Issues with Ford Escape Over the Years
While the Ford Escape has generally been a reliable vehicle, some model years have been associated with significant mechanical and safety problems. These issues often stem from design flaws, manufacturing defects, or subpar components. Below, we’ll highlight the years that stand out for their problems.
Problematic Years for the Ford Escape
Based on owner complaints and expert reviews, the following years are considered the most problematic for the Ford Escape:
- 2005-2008: These years were notorious for transmission failures. Many owners reported that their transmissions failed prematurely, often requiring costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, there were issues with engine stalling and power loss.
- 2013: The 2013 Ford Escape faced numerous recalls due to engine overheating, which could lead to fires. This model year also had issues with the EcoBoost engine, including coolant leaks and turbocharger failures.
- 2014: Continuing from the previous year, the 2014 model also suffered from engine-related problems, particularly with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine. Transmission issues and electrical malfunctions were also reported.
- 2017: Owners of the 2017 Ford Escape reported problems with the transmission and engine, including rough shifting and excessive oil consumption. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors, were also common.
Why These Years Were Problematic
The issues with these model years often stemmed from a combination of factors:
- Design Flaws: Some problems, such as the overheating engines in the 2013 model, were due to poor design choices that led to safety hazards.
- Subpar Components: Certain parts, like the transmissions in the 2005-2008 models, were prone to failure due to inferior materials or manufacturing processes.
- Complex Technology: As vehicles became more technologically advanced, issues with electrical systems and sensors became more prevalent, as seen in the 2017 model.
How to Avoid Buying a Problematic Ford Escape
If you’re in the market for a used Ford Escape, here are some tips to avoid purchasing a problematic model:
- Research the Model Year: Look up reviews, owner complaints, and recall information for the specific year you’re considering.
- Check the Vehicle History Report: Obtain a report to see if the vehicle has a history of accidents, recalls, or major repairs.
- Have a Mechanic Inspect the Vehicle: Before purchasing, have a trusted mechanic inspect the car for any signs of wear or potential issues.
Conclusion
While the Ford Escape has been a reliable and versatile SUV for many drivers, certain model years have been plagued by significant issues. If you’re considering purchasing a used Ford Escape, it’s essential to do your homework and avoid the problematic years mentioned above. By taking the time to research and inspect the vehicle, you can ensure that your Ford Escape will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Is 2012 a good year for Ford Escape?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and comfort to be its strongest features and quality to be its weakest. 450 out of 698 of owners (64% of them) rank the 2012 Escape five out of five stars.
What is the best old Ford SUV?
1991 Ford Explorer - The Old SUV of Ford
It became one of the best-selling SUVs in the country and is still one of the most popular SUVs on the market today. It is known for its stylish looks, efficient performance, and overall reliability. If you are looking for an old-school Ford SUV, the Explorer is a great choice.
What was Ford's most reliable engine?
Reaching over 500,000 miles on average, the 6.7 Power Stroke engine is the best in reliability, with some Ford enthusiasts reporting the success of their diesel engines at 1.3 million miles.
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 considered high mileage on 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 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.
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.
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 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.
