2013–2019 Ford Escape · common problems & known faults

1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost coolant intrusion and overheating (fire-risk recalls on early cars).

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Confirm all recalls completed; check coolant level and history.

1.5L EcoBoost internal coolant leak.

Typically appears

70,000+ miles

What to inspect

Check for unexplained coolant loss and misfires.

Door latch recall (doors that may not stay closed).

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Confirm the latch recall was completed and doors latch securely.

Rough or delayed shifts.

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Test-drive through the gears for smooth engagement.

Whining noise under acceleration or tight cornering; dark gear oil leaking behind the engine.

Typically appears

60,000-90,000 miles

What to inspect

Look under the front subframe for heavy oil weeping from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Perform a tight figure-of-eight manoeuvre at low speed to listen for binding or whining.

Fluctuating idle, stalling after refuelling, and an illuminated engine management light (EML).

Typically appears

40,000-80,000 miles

What to inspect

Start the engine and observe the rev counter for a hunting idle. Listen closely under the bonnet for an excessively loud, erratic ticking from the EVAP purge valve near the inlet manifold.

Unresponsive touchscreen, phantom inputs, or visible bubbling beneath the digitiser glass.

Typically appears

4-7 years

What to inspect

Switch on the ignition and inspect the edges of the central Sync display for air pockets or delamination. Tap all four corners of the screen to ensure the touch digitiser responds accurately.

Knocking over uneven surfaces, wandering at speed, and premature inner edge wear on rear tyres.

Typically appears

70,000-100,000 miles

What to inspect

Run your hand along the inner edge of both rear tyres feeling for stepped wear. Shine a torch at the rear trailing arm front mounting bushes to check for torn or degraded rubber.