Best & Worst Ford Escape Years | Years To Avoid

We have ranked every Ford Escape model for every generation in order to help you avoid picking the worst Ford Escape year.

Throughout this guide, I will highlight Ford Escape’s best and most reliable years, as well as its worst.

Several credible sources, including NHTSA, VehicleHistory, and Consumer Reports, have provided credible data on Ford Escape reliability, owner satisfaction, and common problems across multiple model years.

There is a lot of information in this article about which Ford Escape years have transmission problems, why buying a Ford Escape in 2013 or 2014 is a bad idea, and more.

We’ll get started as soon as possible.

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Ford Escape Generations

A balanced combination of fuel efficiency, performance, and comfort was provided by Ford’s Escape compact SUV in 2001.

The following table shows a generation-by-generation breakdown of the Ford Escape from 2001 to present.

Generation	Years
4th generation (CX482)	2020-Present
3rd generation (C520)	2013-2019
2nd generation (CD2)	2008-2012
1st generation (BA/ZA/ZB)	2001-2007

Technology, safety features, and driving dynamics are changing significantly due to generational shifts in design, technology, and safety features.

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Ford Escape Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

In ranking and categorizing Ford Escape’s best and worst years, we consider the following factors:

Using the compiled data, I categorized the Ford Escape model years into best, neutral, and worst.

Generation	Best Years	Neutral Years	Worst Years
4th generation (CX482)	2023	2021	2020 2022
3rd generation (C520)	2016 2018 2019	20152017	2013 2014
2nd generation (CD2)	2012	N/A	2008 2009 2010 2011
1st generation (BA/ZA/ZB)	2007	N/A	2001 2002 2003 2005 2004 2006

A balanced mix of positive and manageable aspects may be reflected in the “Neutral Years”.

As an example, NHTSA recalls can negatively affect our evaluations: Owner satisfaction and reliability are negatively affected by complaints, recalls, and reliability issues.

Here are the best, neutral, and worst years for Ford Escape.

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Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 4th Generation [2020 to 2023]

The 2020 Ford Escape will feature technology upgrades, enhanced aesthetics, and a wider range of available powertrains.

It is a bad year to buy a Ford Escape in 2020 because recalls are surprisingly high. In 2023, Ford Escape will have its best year in its generation.

2023 is one of the best years

For the Ford Escape, 2023 is the best year of this generation based on J.D Power and Cars.com ratings.

There are a variety of powertrain options for this model year, including a 1.5L EcoBoost engine, a 2.0L EcoBoost engine, and a hybrid variant.

With its new plug-in hybrid, Ford has taken a significant step forward in its electrification journey. According to the EPA, the car can travel 37 miles on electricity alone.

Among the highlights of the 2023 Escape are its sleek design and user-friendly technology.

With a host of advanced safety features, Ford Co-Pilot360 is appealing to consumers who are concerned about safety, including pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot information, and lane keep assist.

2021 is the Neutral Year

A harmonious combination of technology and safety characterized the 2021 Ford Escape, demonstrating advances without excluding any shortcomings.

Some consumers expressed concerns about the vehicle’s build quality and reliability, despite the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control and voice-activated navigation systems.

The rear brake linings on this vehicle were improperly cured in previous recalls, raising questions about its reliability.

Despite its ergonomic design, the vehicle offers a variety of powertrain options, and its reliability is moderate.

2020 and 2022 are the worst years

There are likely to be many Ford Escape recalls in 2020 and 2022, as well as low owner ratings on J.D Power, VehicleHistory, and Consumer Reports.

In particular, the welds on the driver’s side door have raised questions about the manufacturing quality.

As a result of numerous recalls for engine problems, cracked fuel injectors, oil leaks, and malfunctioning rearview cameras, as well as reports of problems with displays and start stops, the brand’s reputation was further damaged.

Ford Escape 2022 had a few noteworthy issues. In addition to misaligned rear view cameras impairing rear visibility and improperly tempered rear brake caliper pistons impairing brake performance, the company faced several recalls.

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Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 3rd Generation [2013 to 2019]

A sleeker, more modern design replaced the traditional SUV look of the Ford Escape from 2013 to 2019.

Among the years in this generation, 2016 has been the best and most reliable, followed by 2018, and then 2019 has been the most reliable. If you own a Ford Escape, you can’t escape 2013 and 2014.

2016-2018, 2019 are the best years

The VehicleHistory , Cars.com , and JD Power ratings for Ford Escape third generation years 2016, 2018, and 2019 are excellent.

An EcoBoost 1.6L I4 turbocharged engine, a 2.0L I4 turbocharged engine, and a 2.5L I4 engine were available for the 2016 Ford Escape.

With a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 2016 model was capable of 22 city/31 highway mpg despite its 1.6L engine.

Furthermore, SYNC 3 replaced the old MyFord Touch system with a more intuitive and responsive interface, replacing MyFord Touch altogether.

Ford’s EcoBoost technology ensures high efficiency and performance in the 2018 and 2019 Escape models.

In addition to adaptive cruise control, there was a forward-collision warning with brake support.

2015 and 2017 were neutral years

Despite offering a variety of commendable features, the 2015 and 2017 Escape models did not come without issues and recalls.

Its aggressive handling and powerful engine options were praised, but its slow response times and complex MyFord Touch infotainment system were often criticized.

As well, malfunctioning door latches have been reported, a widely recognized problem that has prompted recalls.

To address some of these concerns, Ford’s 2017 Escape has a new 1.5L turbo-4 engine and a more user-friendly SYNC 3 system.

Air conditioning systems and power equipment of some vehicles have been criticized by owners.

2013 and 2014 were the worst years

Are there any Ford Escape model years to avoid? It is recommended that Ford Escape owners avoid 2013 and 2014 like the plague for the following reasons:

Does the Ford Escape have a good chance of doing well in 2013? There is no doubt about it. The third generation was born amid significant engine problems in 2013.

Oil leaks and potential fire hazards are possible as a result of a leaky coolant in the engine cylinder head.

The NHTSA received more than a thousand complaints from owners following an extensive recall to mitigate the pronounced risk.

A recall for faulty door latches and wiring splices further damaged this model’s reputation.

Ford Escape airbags and seat belt pretensioners have been recalled for the 2014 model year, which could cause serious injury if struck.

There have been a number of reports of transmission failures and electrical system problems among owners.

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Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 2nd Generation [2008 to 2012]

A second generation Ford Escape (2008-2012) was enhanced in terms of interior quality, technology, and driving dynamics.

Ford Escapes from 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011 are Ford Escapes you should avoid, while those from 2012 are the best.

2012 was one of the best years

Consumer Reports reliability and owner satisfaction ratings are both high in 2012, with significantly fewer NHTSA recalls and owner complaints than in previous years.

There were three engine choices for the 2012 Ford Escape: a 2.5L Duratec 25 I4 engine with 171 horsepower, a 3.0L V6 engine with 240 horsepower, and a hybrid engine with 155 horsepower.

It was available with either a manual 5-speed transmission or an automatic 6-speed transmission, allowing it to achieve an average fuel economy of 20 city miles per gallon and 26 highway miles per gallon.

There are three trim levels: the base model XLS, the mid-level XLT, and the top model Limited edition. For the hybrid model, there were two trim levels: base and limited.

2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 were the worst years

In the worst years of the generation, the NHTSA has received a significant increase in owner complaints, so cars bought during those years should be avoided.

Prior to its release, the 2008 Ford Escape had significant problems, particularly with the power steering system, which many Ford Escape owners blamed for an unanticipated loss of steering assist.

Between 2008 and 2011, a large recall targeting this widespread issue highlighted the potential safety hazards associated with sudden increases in steering effort.

There were stalling issues, transmission problems, and erratic throttle response in the 2009 Ford Escape, as well as its predecessor.

There were similar problems with the Ford Escape models of 2010 and 2011. Recalls have been issued for 3.0L engines whose fuel delivery modules may crack, causing fuel leaks and safety risks.

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Best & Worst Years for Ford Escape 1st Generation [2001 to 2007]

Ford Escape, a compact SUV that combines off-road capability with urban maneuverability, was introduced in 2001.

Years 2001-2006 of the Ford Escape should be avoided due to reliability issues, but 2007 is a good year for this generation.

2007 was one of the best years

The Ford Escape had its best year ever in 2007 despite transmission and engine problems with earlier models.

The 2007 Ford Escape offers 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway fuel economy with its 2.3L Duratec 23 I4 engine or 3.0L Duratec 30 V6 engine, with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.

Ford’s Intelligent 4WD System enhanced traction and stability along with the XLS, XLT, and Limited models.

There have been reports of transmission and powertrain issues in spite of its improved reliability.

2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2004, 2006 were the worst years

According to Ford Escape sales data, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 were the worst years of the generation. The number of owner-reported complaints each year exceeds 1000.

As a result of recalls concerning a variety of vehicle parts, including interference with speed connector cables, fuel line leaks, and master cylinder brake fluid leaks, the 2001 Ford Escape suffered from engine stallings and transmission failures.

Safety hazards included a stuck throttle recall, which posed a serious hazard to occupants.

Ford Escape 2002 also had similar problems. Furthermore, the electrical connector for the ABS control module wiring harness may be compromised, resulting in possible fire incidents.

In 2004 and 2005, Ford Escape models suffered from subframe corrosion, which continued in 2003.

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Common Issues with Ford Escape 

Several things need to be kept in mind before buying a Ford Escape. With these tips, you can also determine the risks associated with Ford Escapes. The following issues may be experienced by Ford Escape owners: 

Issues with the Brakes

Some models, especially in 2016 and 2017, have been reported to be noisy when the brakes are applied. Ford began replacing worn-out parts or the entire brake system on some models because of brake squeals. The issue spanned several years and should be remembered as a whole. 

Transmission Failure

This issue is commonly reported in Ford Escapes, as described above. In severe cases, the vehicle suddenly stops working without warning. It costs up to $4000 to fix that problem, which is not affordable for everyone.

Engine Fires

Several vehicles were recalled in 2012 and 2013 due to engine problems. As a result of the defect, the engine would catch fire in some severe cases, even while being driven. After a widespread recall prompted by this major problem, there have been no further reports. 

Ignition Misfires

Ford Escape models were recalled for ignition misfires from 2001 to 2013. When the ignition malfunctions, fuel economy will suffer, power will be lost, and engine damage will occur. You should replace the ignition coils on the Escape SUV as soon as possible or you will risk long-term engine damage.

Power Steering Loss

Over the past few years, Ford Escapes have been reported to have lost power steering. NHTSA investigated the issue as a result. Due to flawed designs of the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), Ford discovered that the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) could not detect the driver’s inputs.

People were forced to compensate fully with their steering due to the steering becoming too difficult at lower speeds. Occasionally, drivers may lose control of their vehicles due to the defect.

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Is the Ford Escape worth buying?

The Ford Escape has a few models that are less reliable, such as models that have problems with their transmissions, power steering, or brakes, but many others perform well and are less likely to frustrate drivers.

Ford Escape has many great features.

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FAQs: Ford Escape Years to Avoid

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Conclusion

Following our analysis of its journey, we recommend the Ford Escape. The Ford Escape is available in four different model years: 2007, 2012, 2018, and 2019. Due to their robust reliability and minimal problems, these are the best years for Ford Escapes.

This particular Ford Escape model is unique, so what makes it so special?

We’d love to hear your thoughts!