The Escape has established itself as a favorite among on-road families since it was first introduced in 2000. Not only do fans of competing brands appreciate them, but so do Ford customers, who bought many of them.
The fourth-generation Escape hopes to maintain its popularity in the U.S. by being both practical and stylish.
The model years 2006, 2007, 2012, 2016-2019, and 2021-2023 are the best Ford Escape years to buy, with excellent dependability, and few reported issues. The worst model years include 2001, 2002, 2005, 2008- 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2022. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, Jd Power, and Kelley Blue Book reviews.
Although the Escape gives off an air of perfection, it is actually somewhat flawed. To help you avoid buying a lemon, we’ve compiled a list of problematic model years for the Ford Escape and, of course, the best ones also.
What Are The Worst Years Of Ford Escape?
The Ford Escape is a great daily driver, but there have been serious issues with numerous years of the vehicle. We advise that you stay far away from any Ford Escapes manufactured in 2001, 2002, 2005, 2008- 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2022.
#10 Worst Year: 2020 Ford Escape (3.94 Rating)
Although 2020 is one of the newest Ford Escape model years, and somehow you’ll notice positive responses given by some owners, it is one of the worst. We’ll tell you why.
According to reported complaints, there is a high chance that the oil separator housing on the engine could split and start leaking in the 2020 Ford Escape. As a result, a fire is more likely to break out. The other major problem is that its door won’t shut; eventually, you must replace and repaint the door.
Common Problem:
- The door won’t shut
- Transmission failure
- Oil leakage
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2020 Ford Escape got 10 recalls and 259 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2020 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 7.7/10 expert reviews.
- Jd Power: 2020 Ford Escape got 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2020 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer and 4.3 expert ratings.
#9 Worst Year: 2011 Ford Escape (3.92 Rating)
CarComplaints.com has again given its “Beware of clunker” award to the 2011 Ford Escape. The power steering on vehicles of this model year frequently failed while driving, and there were also problems with the engines and transmissions.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Throttle response (engine) failure
- Jerks while shifting/acceleration
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2011 Ford Escape got 3 recalls and 1183 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2011 Ford Escape got 3.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2011 Ford Escape got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2011 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
#8 Worst Year: 2009 Ford Escape (3.85 Rating)
Although there were no gearbox failures in the 2009 Ford Escape like there were in the 2008 model year, there were plenty of other problems that owners had to deal with.
The 2009 Escape is not recommended due to its numerous problems, including a noisy engine and shaky handling brought on by aging suspension, and also got “Avoid like the plague” for this model.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Faulty Power steering
- Jerking into gear
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2009 Ford Escape got 4 recalls and 1584 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2009 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2009 Ford Escape got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2009 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
#7 Worst Year: 2005 Ford Escape (3.82 Rating)
For the 2005 Ford Escape, CarComplaints.com warns against it and is labeled “Avoid like the plague.” Computer (PCM) failure is a major issue with this model year. At around 101,000 miles, you’ll start experiencing this problem, and the full repair will set you back a hefty above two thousand dollars.
Common Problem:
- Computer (PCM) failure
- Excessive wheel well / Paint peeling
- Engine failure while driving
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2005 Ford Escape got 5 recalls and 1572 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2005 Ford Escape got 4.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2005 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
#6 Worst Year: 2002 Ford Escape (3.65 Rating)
Just like the 2001 Ford Escape, the 2002 also got the “Beware of the clunker” label but with comparatively fewer complaints which is why it is ranking in 6th place. However, numerous complaints about transmission failure and engine cooling still need to be fixed. We advise you to stay away from this old and irritating model.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Engine failure
- Shifting roughly
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2002 Ford Escape got 10 recalls and 1076 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2002 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2002 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
#5 Worst Year: 2010 Ford Escape (3.60 Rating)
The “Beware of the clunker” label persists on a select few Ford Escape models despite repeated attempts to remove it. Unfortunately, 2010 was also one of the years that didn’t manage to avoid this disgrace.
The engine is the most frequently cited concern for this model year. About 500 engine (and engine cooling) issues have been recorded on CarProblemZoo.com.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Back window failure
- Power steering issue
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2010 Ford Escape got 5 recalls and 2021 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2010 Ford Escape got 4.2 /5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2010 Ford Escape got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2010 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
#4 Worst Year: 2008 Ford Escape (3.46 Rating)
The most costly complaint was for the 2014 model year. However, the Ford Escape from 2008 had the most complaints overall.
CarComplaints.com warns, “Avoid like the plague,” for this model. About a thousand reports of steering problems have been made for this model on CarProblemZoo.com. The most common problems were with the transmission and the steering system, both of which present potential hazards.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Transmission cooler failure
- Power steering failure
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2008 Ford Escape got 6 recalls and 2336 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2008 Ford Escape got 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2008 Ford Escape got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2008 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
#3 Worst Year: 2001 Ford Escape (3.32 Rating)
In the list of the top 3 worst Ford Escape model years, 2001 got a notorious place. Like the preceding entries, CarComplaints.com recommends that you stay far away from the 2001 Ford Escape model, which also got the “Avoid like the plague” badge. CarProblemZoo.com reports that engine cooling is the most common problem for this model, even more so than gearbox failure.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Rough engine
- Clogged catalytic converter
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2001 Ford Escape got 15 recalls and 1051 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2001 Ford Escape got 4.2/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2001 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
#2 Worst Year: 2014 Ford Escape (3.22 Rating)
CarComplaints.com warns, “Beware of the clunker,” implying that the 2014 model year is subpar. This model year’s most common issue occurs around 70,000 miles and involves the transmission failing. Moreover, the engine frequently overheats, which is a primary concern for most drivers.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Engine overheating
- Transmission (not shifting properly)
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2014 Ford Escape got 15 recalls and 1531 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2014 Ford Escape got 3.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2014 Ford Escape got 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2014 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
#1 Worst Year: 2013 Ford Escape (2.85 Rating)
The worst year in this list is the 2013 Ford Escape, labeled with the infamous “avoid like the plague” badge. What this signifies is that there are a lot of issues with this model year. Three major problems with this model year’s cars surfaced far before the 100,000-mile mark.
Common Problem:
- Transmission failure
- Faulty Power steering
- The engine suddenly shut down while driving
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2013 Ford Escape got 17 recalls and 2331 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2013 Ford Escape got 3.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2013 Ford Escape got 74/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2013 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
What Are The Best Years Of Ford Escape?
Now that you know which Ford escape year to avoid. These are some examples of Ford Escapes that deserve the highest praise.
#10 Best Year: 2012 Ford Escape (4.02 Rating)
Although the 2012 Ford Escape is getting on in years for a car, it could be a hidden gem for those with an eye for pre-owned automobiles. Several people have had favorable experiences with this model year, and the most common compliments focus on its responsiveness, reliability, and efficiency.
Here are some of the features that made 2012 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a versatile cargo space, up to 67.2 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It provides decent fuel efficiency with up to 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2012 Ford Escape got 2 recalls and 534 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2012 Ford Escape got 4.1/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2012 Ford Escape got 78/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2012 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer and 3.0 expert ratings.
#9 Best Year: 2017 Ford Escape (4.04 Rating)
Many customers who are looking for a vehicle with plenty of comfortable space for both people and cargo choose the 2017 Ford Escape. This vehicle scored perfectly on outstanding performance and included a quiet and elegant interior.
Finally, it’s worth noting that this vehicle is ranked first in the affordable compact SUV category by cars.usnews.com, with an overall score of 8.6 out of 10.
Here are some of the features that made 2017 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a spacious cargo area, with up to 68 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers impressive fuel efficiency, with up to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2017 Ford Escape got 2 recalls and 761 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2017 Ford Escape got 3.6/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2017 Ford Escape got 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2017 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
#8 Best Year: 2021 Ford Escape (4.05 Rating)
The 2021 Ford Escape has one of the highest dependability ratings in its class and comes equipped with cutting-edge technologies and safety features. This model year is a very affordable and reliable SUV, ranking it 8th place here.
Here are some of the features that made 2021 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a versatile cargo space, with up to 65.4 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers excellent fuel efficiency, with up to 44 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway for its hybrid model.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2021 Ford Escape got 7 recalls and 85 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2021 Ford Escape got 3.9/5.0 consumer and 7.7/10 expert reviews.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2021 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
#7 Best Year: 2006 Ford Escape (4.05 Rating)
When compared to other years in its time, the 2006 Ford Escape has the fewest problems despite being the oldest model year on this list.
This model year stands out for its simplicity in performance and reliability and its generally positive reviews on credible automobile review websites. It may not have any fancy features, but that simplicity is precisely what makes this car so reliable.
Here are some of the features that made 2006 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has practical cargo space, up to 66.3 cubic feet of storage capacity, and the rear seats are folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It has decent fuel efficiency, with up to 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2006 Ford Escape got 6 recalls and 706 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2006 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2006 Ford Escape got 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2006 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
#6 Best Year: 2022 Ford Escape (4.06 Rating)
The 2022 Ford Escape is an excellent pick because it is new, reasonable, and packed with useful features. Owners rave about its fun handling, spacious interior, and practicality. The 2022 model year included three new color options (Atlas Blue, Flying Blue, and Iced Blue); otherwise, it is identical to the 2021 version.
Here are some of the features that made 2022 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has practical cargo space, up to 65.4 cubic feet of storage capacity when the rear seats are folded.
- Fuel Efficiency: It has decent fuel efficiency, with up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2022 Ford Escape got 5 recalls and 45 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2022 Ford Escape got 3.7/5.0 consumer and 7.7/10 expert reviews.
- Jd Power: 2022 Ford Escape got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2022 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer and 3.7 expert ratings.
#5 Best Year: 2016 Ford Escape (4.09 Rating)
One of the least problematic pre-2018 models is the 2016 Ford Escape. The looks, the handling, and the gas mileage are what people like best about this model year. The vehicle is attractive to the eye, fun to drive, and reasonably priced. In terms of storage space, it’s ideal.
Here are some of the features that made 2016 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a practical cargo space, with up to 67.8 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers decent fuel efficiency, with up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2016 Ford Escape got 2 recalls and 535 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2016 Ford Escape got 3.7/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2016 Ford Escape got 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2016 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
#4 Best Year: 2018 Ford Escape (4.13 Rating)
2018 ford escape will still get you a nice compact SUV with an intact warranty if you want to save a little money and lay aside some cash for future costs like repairs and gas. Even though the Ford Focus has been discontinued, the older design, which shares its technical foundations with the Focus, is still available in 2018.
Here are some of the features that made 2018 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a spacious cargo area, with up to 68 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It has good fuel efficiency, with up to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2018 Ford Escape got 3 recalls and 358 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2018 Ford Escape got 3.8/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2018 Ford Escape got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2018 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
#3 Best Year: 2019 Ford Escape (4.26 Rating)
When it comes to low-priced small SUVs, the 2019 Ford Escape stands out for its abundance of high-quality features. Changes to basic features and other improvements make the 2019 model immediately visible.
This model’s strong points are its large cargo capacity, quick steering response, excellent performance, powerful engines, and six-speed automatic transmission. This model’s 1.5-liter engine is among the most fuel-efficient available. You can take long travels without worrying that your car will break.
Here are some of the features that made 2019 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has a practical cargo space, with up to 68 cubic feet of storage capacity, with the rear seats folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It offers decent fuel efficiency, with up to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2019 Ford Escape got 2 recalls and 124 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2019 Ford Escape got 3.9/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2019 Ford Escape got 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2019 Ford Escape got 4.0/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
#2 Best Year: 2007 Ford Escape (4.28 Rating)
The 2007 Ford Escape’s exterior design may be a little too harsh for modern tastes, but its spacious interior, large trunk, affordable price, and dependable powertrain make it a top pick.
The fact that it had fewer issues than its predecessors in the Escape line is probably its best selling point. It is said that this model requires very little in the way of upkeep, and if any repairs are required, they will be less than those on comparable models.
Here are some of the features that made 2007 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It offers practical cargo space, with up to 66.3 cubic feet of storage capacity when the rear seats are folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It has decent fuel efficiency, with up to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2007 Ford Escape got 4 recalls and 385 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2007 Ford Escape got 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
- Jd Power: 2007 Ford Escape got 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2007 Ford Escape got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.
#1 Best Year: 2023 Ford Escape (4.30 Rating)
If you’re in the market for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and latest SUV, the 2023 Ford Escape is a fantastic choice because it ranks as the #5 most fuel-efficient SUV for 2023. Our top pick for this Escape segment is its latest model due to the least reported problems and high ratings on authoritative automobile websites.
You’ll be relieved to know that this car has the lowest operating costs in its segment thanks to its excellent fuel efficiency. The 2023 Escape features updated front and back styling, a new Sync 4 infotainment system with larger touchscreen options, and new trim levels.
Here are some of the features that made 2006 one of the best Ford Escapes:
- Interior Space: It has practical cargo space, with up to 65.4 cubic feet of storage capacity when the rear seats are folded down.
- Fuel Efficiency: It has decent fuel efficiency, with up to 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2023 Ford Escape got 1 recall and 0 complaints.
- Edmunds: 2023 Ford Escape got 3.7/5.0 consumer and 7.7/10 expert reviews.
- Jd Power: 2023 Ford Escape got 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 2023 Ford Escape got 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
FAQ
What Are The Most Common Problems With Ford Escape?
From what we could find from online customer complaints, these are the most often reported problems with the Ford Escape:
- Power steering failure
- Transmission failure
- Computer (PCM) failure
What Is The Most Reliable Ford Escape Year To Buy?
The 2023 Ford Escape is one of the most reliable years available due to its cutting-edge technology, roomy and comfortable inside, decent handling compared to rivals, and high-reliability rating.
What Are The Ford Escape Alternatives?
The alternatives for the Ford Escape could be the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, Ford Bronco Sport, Subaru Forester, Mitsubishi Outlander, etc.
Conclusion
Based on available data and expert reviews, it can be concluded that some of the best years for the Ford Escape include the 2023, 2007, and 2019 models, while you should avoid the 2013, 2014, and 2001 model years.
Although some people may have had good experiences with the “worst” years, others may have had bad experiences with the “best” years. It’s crucial to do your research and have a reliable mechanic look over a used Ford Escape before you buy it.
