Why is my AC not getting cold in my 2017 Ford Escape?

In a typical 2017 Ford Escape, a lack of cooling is most often caused by a refrigerant leak (low charge), a failing compressor or clutch, or an electrical issue like a faulty pressure switch. Other common culprits include a blocked condenser, a bad blend door, or airflow problems. This vehicle uses R-1234yf refrigerant, which requires specialized equipment and certification to service safely.

Common causes

These are the main issues that can prevent the A/C from cooling, listed from the most frequent to less common problems.

• Low refrigerant charge from a leak, which is the single most common cause of reduced cooling. Signs include frost or oil around refrigerant connections and weak cooling.


• Faulty A/C compressor or clutch not engaging, so the system can’t circulate refrigerant even if a charge is present.


• Electrical problems, such as a blown fuse/relay or a faulty high/low pressure switch that prevents the compressor from running.


• Blocked or dirty condenser or restricted airflow to the condenser, which reduces heat rejection and cooling efficiency.


• Damaged or leaking refrigerant lines, fittings, or a faulty expansion valve/orifice causing improper refrigerant flow.


• Cabin air controls (blend door or actuator) stuck or malfunctioning, which prevents cold air from reaching the cabin even if the system is cooling.

If you notice visible leaks, an odd sweet smell near the engine bay, or persistent warm air, these indicate issues that should be diagnosed by a professional.

Diagnosing the problem

Before heading to a shop, you can perform basic checks to narrow down the likely cause. Remember that handling R-1234yf refrigerant requires certified equipment and training.

Simple checks you can perform

• Test climate controls: set A/C to max cold, ensure the recirculation option is active, and confirm the blower is delivering air at all speeds.


• Listen for the compressor engaging: when the A/C is on, you should hear a brief click as the clutch engages and the refrigerant begins to circulate; the low-pressure line should feel cooler once engaged.


• Look for leaks: inspect exposed refrigerant lines and connections for signs of oil residue, which can indicate a leak.


• Check condenser airflow: ensure the front grille and condenser are free of debris and that cooling fans operate when the A/C is on.


• Inspect the cabin airflow: if warm air continues despite the A/C being on, the blend door actuator may be stuck or faulty.


• Check fuses and relays related to the A/C and climate control system for any signs of failure.

These checks help determine whether the problem is related to refrigerant, the compressor/electrical system, airflow, or cabin controls. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, schedule a professional inspection for a precise diagnosis.

When to call a technician

Call a professional if you observe refrigerant odors, oil around hoses, or you hear a continuous compressor cycling without delivering cold air. Automotive A/C systems are pressurized and require proper tooling to diagnose and repair safely.

Technicians will use gauges to measure system pressure, check for leaks with dye or electronic detectors, and verify the integrity of the compressor, condenser, and expansion device. They’ll also confirm correct refrigerant type (R-1234yf) and service specifications for your model year.

What to expect at the shop

When you take the Escape to a shop, here is a typical workflow and what you should expect during service.

• Confirm refrigerant type and system pressures with manifold gauges and compare to Ford service specs for the 2017 Escape.


• Perform a leak check using dye or an electronic detector to locate the source of refrigerant loss.


• Repair leaks and replace any damaged hoses, seals, or fittings; replace the receiver/drier or accumulator if moisture or contamination is detected.


• Recharge the system to the correct refrigerant charge and oil level after repairs; if the compressor or expansion device is faulty, replace as needed.


• Inspect condenser fins, radiator cooling, and cooling fans; clean debris and replace a faulty fan motor or relay if necessary.


• Test electrical components: pressure switches, wiring harnesses, fuses/relays, and the climate control module to ensure proper operation.


• Address cabin comfort issues by diagnosing the blend door actuator and ensuring proper airflow mixing for cold air.

After service, the A/C should deliver consistent cold air, and system pressures should be within spec with no leaks. Expect a diagnostic and repair bill based on parts, labor, and any refrigerant handling charges.

Prevention and maintenance tips

Routine maintenance can help prevent future cooling issues and extend the life of your A/C system.

• Have the A/C refrigerant level checked as part of regular maintenance, especially before hot seasons.


• Replace the cabin air filter on schedule to maintain optimal airflow and cooling efficiency.


• Keep the condenser clear of debris by washing the grille area and ensuring proper airflow to the fans.


• Promptly address any refrigerant smells, oily residue, or visible leaks; do not ignore recurring A/C performance declines.


• Run the A/C periodically in mild weather to keep seals lubricated and prevent components from seizing.

Proactive maintenance helps maintain cooling performance and reduce the risk of unexpected A/C failures.

Summary

A 2017 Ford Escape that isn’t cooling is most often due to a refrigerant leak causing low charge, a failing compressor or clutch, or an electrical fault such as a pressure switch. Other possibilities include a blocked condenser, broken blend door, or airflow problems. Accurate diagnosis requires professional testing with the proper refrigerant handling equipment (R-1234yf). Regular maintenance and timely repairs can restore reliable cooling and prevent future issues.

Why would my AC be running but not cooling?

An AC that runs but doesn't cool is often caused by simple issues like a dirty air filter or incorrect thermostat settings, but can also be a sign of more serious problems like a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or frozen evaporator coils. You can check the thermostat and air filter yourself, but you should call a professional for internal issues like a refrigerant leak or compressor problems.
 
Quick checks you can do

• Check the thermostat: Make sure it's set to "Cool" and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Set the fan to "Auto" instead of "On". 
• Replace the air filter: A clogged filter is a very common cause. Check if it's dirty and replace it if needed. This can also cause the evaporator coils to freeze. 
• Clear vents and registers: Make sure air vents in your home are not blocked by furniture or other objects. 

Potential causes requiring a professional

• Low refrigerant: This is often due to a leak. The AC won't cool properly without enough refrigerant. 
• Frozen evaporator coils: This is often a symptom of poor airflow (like a dirty filter) or low refrigerant. You may need to turn the AC off to let them thaw. 
• Dirty condenser coils: These are on the outdoor unit. If they are dirty, the AC can't release heat properly, making it inefficient. 
• Faulty compressor or capacitor: The compressor is the heart of the system. A bad capacitor can prevent the fan and compressor from starting. 
• Leaky ductwork: Leaky ducts can cause cool air to escape before it reaches the rooms that need it. 

What to do now

1. Start with the simple checks: thermostat and air filter. 
2. If those don't solve the problem, turn the AC system off to prevent further damage, especially if you suspect frozen coils. 
3. If the issue persists, contact an HVAC professional to diagnose and fix more complex problems like refrigerant leaks or compressor issues. 

What is the most common problem with a 2017 Ford Escape?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• Paint/Trim. Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
• Engine Major.
• Exhaust.
• Transmission Major.
• Suspension/Steering.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Noises/Leaks.
• Climate System.

Why is my AC not blowing cold in my 2017 Ford Escape?

A 2017 Ford Escape's AC not working could be due to a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, electrical issues like blown fuses or bad relays, or a clogged condenser. Other potential problems include a bad blend door actuator, a dirty cabin air filter, or a malfunctioning ambient air temperature sensor. Start by checking the simple things like fuses and the cabin air filter before moving on to more complex components.
 
This video demonstrates how to check the AC relay and a potential fix: 50sproclaimliberty2000YouTube · Sep 25, 2021
Common causes and solutions
You can watch this video to learn how to check the AC fuse: 44sFree Car RepairYouTube · Dec 9, 2023

• Refrigerant issues: A low refrigerant level due to a leak is a very common cause of poor cooling. 
  • Solution: Have a professional check for leaks, evacuate the system if necessary, and recharge it to the correct level. 
• Compressor problems: A malfunctioning compressor cannot circulate refrigerant, and a failing clutch can prevent it from engaging. 
  • Solution: Have a mechanic diagnose the compressor. A failing clutch may be a symptom of another issue, such as low refrigerant pressure. 
• Electrical issues: Blown fuses, bad relays, or a faulty AC pressure switch can all cause the system to fail. 
  • Solution: Check the fuse box for a blown fuse and swap the AC relay with a similar one to test it. If a new compressor is needed, consider checking or replacing the pressure switch. 
• Airflow problems: A dirty or clogged cabin air filter or condenser can block airflow. 
  • Solution: Replace the cabin air filter and clean the condenser if it's blocked by debris. 
• Blend door actuator: This part controls the flow of air through the vents. If it's faulty, it can cause uneven or poor cooling. 
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator to restore proper air distribution. 
• Ambient air temperature sensor: If this sensor provides incorrect readings, it can prevent the AC from working properly. 
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ambient air temperature sensor, which is often located on the dashboard. 

This video explains how to diagnose a faulty AC compressor: 55sAuto Aide Technical ServicesYouTube · Oct 15, 2020
Other potential problems

• System complexity: If you've replaced parts like the compressor but the AC still doesn't work, the vehicle's computer may need a reset.
  • Solution: Use an OBD scanner to check for and clear any trouble codes. You can also try disconnecting the battery for a while to reset the system. 

What to do

1. Check simple things first: Start by examining the fuses, swapping relays, and inspecting the cabin air filter. 
2. Look for the cause of leaks: Check the refrigerant level. If it's low, there's a leak somewhere that needs to be found and fixed. 
3. Inspect other components: If the problem persists, consider the blend door actuator and the ambient air temperature sensor. 
4. Seek professional help: If you're unsure about diagnosing or repairing these components, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for a proper assessment.

How to reset Ford climate control?

To reset a Ford climate control system, you can use a button combination like holding the A/C and Recirc buttons for some models, or you can disconnect the negative battery terminal for 5-15 minutes for a more thorough reset. For specific models, a different combination like holding Auto, Off, and Defrost while in accessory mode can trigger a self-test and recalibration. 
Method 1: Button combination reset (for specific models)

• On certain Ford models (like some Edge and F-150s): Turn the ignition to the "accessory" position (without starting the engine). Press and hold the A/C and Recirculation buttons simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the system cycles, or until you see an 88° display flash, then press the Auto button to complete the reset. 
• On other models (like Fusion): With the ignition in the "ON" position without starting the engine, press and hold the AC and Recirc buttons at the same time for about 10 seconds. 
• On some Fusion models: Turn the ignition off, then press the climate power button and the windshield defroster button simultaneously, and immediately press the climate power button again. 

Method 2: Battery disconnection reset 

• Turn off the vehicle and remove the keys. 
• Disconnect the negative battery cable using a wrench and let it sit for at least 5 to 15 minutes to allow all residual power to drain. 
• While the battery is disconnected, turn on the headlights for a few seconds to drain any remaining power from the system. 
• Reconnect the negative battery cable securely. 
• Start the car and let it run for 2 to 3 minutes, switching through the different vent modes (floor, dash, defrost) to help the system relearn the correct airflow positions. You may hear a clicking or whirring sound as the blend doors recalibrate. 

Method 3: HVAC fuse reset 

• Turn off the vehicle's ignition completely.
• Locate the HVAC or climate control fuse in the fuse box (check your owner's manual for the exact location and number, as it varies by model).
• Remove the fuse using a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers.
• Wait for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Reinsert the fuse securely.
• Start the vehicle and check if the climate control is working correctly.