Ford brand mark

Is the 2013–2019 Ford Escape reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

3.9/ 10
Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Ford Escape rates 3.9 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, body and transmission. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
3
Medium
5
Low
0

Weak points cluster around engine, body, transmission, drivetrain.

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The faults that decide it

EngineHigh

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.
Typical repair
Head gasket / cooling system repair · £900–£2,600
EngineHigh

1.5L EcoBoost internal coolant leak.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for unexplained coolant loss and misfires.
Typical repair
Head gasket / cooling system repair · £900–£2,600
DrivetrainHigh

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.
Typical repair
Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
BodyMedium

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.
Typical repair
Door / window mechanism · £130–£600
TransmissionMedium

Rough or delayed shifts.

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Test-drive through the gears for smooth engagement.
Typical repair
Routine repair · £180–£700

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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