Ford Escape Reliability [How Reliable Is the Escape?]

A compact crossover SUV, Ford Escape, was released in 2000 and is currently available in four generations. The manufacturer markets this vehicle as an ideal option for an active lifestyle. Should you buy it? Is the Ford Escape reliable? 

Here is a quick summary of the reliability ratings of Ford Escape through the years: 

Year	J.D. Power Reliability Rating	Car & Driver Overall Rating
2022 Ford Escape	N/A	7.5/10
2021 Ford Escape	N/A	7.5/10
2020 Ford Escape	72/100	7.5/10
2019 Ford Escape	86/100	8.0/10
2018 Ford Escape	83/100	8.0/10
2017 Ford Escape	86/100	8.0/10
2016 Ford Escape	83/100	N/A
2015 Ford Escape	83/100	N/A
2014 Ford Escape	77/100	N/A

Overall, the Ford Escape is reliable. It has many safety features for incredible handling, even in challenging conditions. Nonetheless, it also has several issues, especially with the transmission. 

Read on to learn more about Ford Escape reliability, including some of the top-notch features that make it a great SUV. At the same time, we’ll also list some of its potential problems. 

Ford Escape Reliability

To give you an idea of how reliable the Ford Escape is, we’ll look at some of their models in recent years, along with their reliability scores. 

The reliability ratings below are from different companies. The first is from J.D. Power. The latter is a global company providing data and analytics. It uses advanced tools like algorithmic modeling, big data, and artificial intelligence to provide consumer insights. 

More so, we also gathered the ratings from the Car and Driver. Unlike with J.D. Power, the score from Car and Driver is an overall rating and not specific to the SUV’s reliability. 

While our focus in the succeeding sections is for the Escape, if you want to check out the reliability of Ford vehicles in general, click here:

1. 2022 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: N/A 

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 7.5/10 

If you are the kind of person who always wants the latest vehicle model, then this is for you. Nonetheless, be warned since the only difference from the previous year’s model is the available colors.

Base Model’s Price

With a starting price of $27,255 for the base model, it is up to $1,000 more expensive than the 2021 Ford Escape. All other features remain the same, so think twice if the upgrade is worth it. 

Available in Several Power Trains

The 2022 Ford Escape is available in several power trains, with the most basic having a three-cylinder 1.5-liter engine with the option for either a front or rear drive.

Best Fuel Economy

This is also the best option if you are looking for the best fuel economy. According to the EPA, it has an average consumption of 27 mpg for city driving and 33 mpg for the highway. 

Issue

Nonetheless, one of the most common problems is the hydraulic brake, which has even been a subject of recalls. The rear brake lining can make the braking performance underwhelming, especially on slippery surfaces. It requires more force to respond. 

2. 2021 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: N/A 

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 7.5/10 

Curvier Than the 2020 Ford Escape Model

Compared to the 2020 model, the 2021 Ford Escape is curvier. The hatchback looks more raised. This may not be for people looking for generous cargo space since it has a small utilitarian box. It looks like a bigger sedan than a smaller SUV. 

Availability of the Hybrid Powertrain in More Variants

Among others, one of the best things about the 2021 Ford Escape is the availability of the hybrid powertrain in more variants. To add, it has the following:

• Traffic sign recognition,
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Wide range of options for engine configurations.
• Three-cylinder 1.5-liter engine with either front or rear-wheel drive. 

Issues

Even if it is a reliable SUV, it also has some problems. For instance, there are complaints about the quality of the in-car electronics. The display screen is prone to freezing or going blank after pairing. There are also loose trims in both the interior and exterior. 

3. 2020 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 72/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 7.5/10 

Available in Four Powertrains

The 2020 Ford Escape targets buyers who do not like the traditional hatchback and sedan with a smoother and more car-like appearance. You can choose from four powertrains, including two hybrids.

Safety Features

The 2020 Ford Escape has been praised by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as proof of its reliability. It has many safety features, including:

• Automated emergency braking,
• Forward collision warning,
• Lane-keeping assist, and
• Blind-spot monitoring. 

Fuel Economy

More than being reliable, another claim to fame of the 2020 Ford Escape is its fuel economy. Of all the engine variants, the most efficient is the three-cylinder 1.5-liter engine. It has an average consumption of 27 mpg for the city and 33 mpg for the highway. 

Issues

Nonetheless, it also has several reliability issues. A common problem in this compact SUV is that many interior components look flimsy. Some people also note that the brakes can be smoother for a more seamless stopping experience. 

4. 2019 Ford Escape

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 86/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 8/10

Available with Three Configurations for Its Engine

The 2019 Ford Escape is available with three configurations for its engine to deliver an incredible performance.

Fuel Consumption

Aside from the naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter inline engine, it also has Eco-boost engines, perfect for those who would like to save fuel and minimize emissions. On average, it has a fuel consumption of 21 to 23 mpg in the city and 27 to 30 mpg on the highway. 

Can Conquer Different Terrains

This edition of the Ford Escape is reliable even in the most challenging conditions. It can conquer different terrains, from gravel to snow, while ensuring a great driving experience. It is also great for towing light loads with a maximum of 3,500 pounds. 

Issues

Even if it is great overall, several users note various reliability issues. For instance, some owners complain about how the body can squeak and rattle, especially on unpaved terrains. Plus, the engine is prone to major problems, such as the head gasket, timing belt, timing chain, and cylinder head. 

5. 2018 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 83/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 8/10

Excellent Workhorse on Different Terrains

The 2018 Ford Escape has been lauded for its reliability, from the smooth-shifting automatic transmission to the accurate steering. This compact crossover is an excellent workhorse on different terrains despite being small. 

Available in Three Engines

The 2020 Ford Escape is available in three engines. Aside from the two EcoBoost engines, it also has a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine.

Average Fuel Consumption

Meanwhile, the average fuel consumption ranges from 20 to 23 mpg for city driving and 27 to 30 mpg for highway driving. The horsepower ranges from 168 to 245, which is powerful considering the SUV’s size. 

Issues

If you are planning to buy the 2018 Ford Escape, take note of some of the potential reliability issues. For instance, it can be prone to engine failure and leaking coolant. There are also reports about the transmission failure and the breakage of the seatbelt latch.

6. 2017 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 86/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: 8/10 

Offers Generous Space

Despite its category as a mini-SUV, the 2017 Ford Escape offers generous space for passengers and cargo. It may not be as big as a regular SUV, but it can already provide sufficient space for most owners. 

Safety Features

For your peace of mind, it has many safety features. You will find seven airbags to protect the passengers in case of a collision. Plus, it has AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, making it easy to maintain balance even in difficult driving conditions. Other safety features include the blind spot information system and adaptive cruise control. 

Issues

Like other Ford Escapes, it isn’t free of any problems. Many of its owners report having brakes that suddenly become difficult to engage. The engine can also stumble or hesitate, resulting in rough idling and difficulty starting. There are also problems regarding the electric throttle. 

Again, is the Ford Escape reliable? According to Consumer Reports, the Ford Escape 2020 has a reliability rating of 2 out of 5. Plus, it has an overall rating of 62 and a 4.5 out of 5 predicted reliability (J.D. Power). In general, the Ford Escapes have a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

7. 2016 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 83/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: N/A

Has a Standard Six-speed Select-Shift Automatic Transmission

Aside from the two EcoBoost engines, the 2016 Ford Escape is also available with a Duratec engine that generates 168 HP. All configurations have a standard six-speed Select-Shift automatic transmission comparable to a manual transmission with sportiness.

Innovative Safety Features

To be reliable, the 2016 Ford Escape has many innovative safety features. One thing that we love the most is the roll stability control and curve stability, making the crossover easy to drive even in winding terrains. It also has a next-generation Personal Safety System, ensuring the quick deployment of airbags when there is an accident. 

Issues

Even if it is reliable, the vehicle inevitably suffers from several problems. A common issue is with the transmission. It can shudder or make an unusual noise when you shift. There are also reports about the sub-par quality of the interior, especially the glovebox. 

8. 2015 Ford Escape

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 83/100 

Car and Driver Overall Rating: N/A 

Comes with Two EcoBoost Engines

The 2015 Ford Escape comes with two EcoBoost engines to deliver no-compromise performance. An intelligent four-wheel-drive system is available, ensuring that you have the necessary power wherever you go. Its fuel consumption can range from 22 to 23 mpg in the city and 29 to 32 mpg on the highway. 

Safety Features

Like the other Escapes, it has a long list of safety features so you can be confident as you drive. For instance, it has Safety Canopy System or side-curtain airbags. It also has stability control to prevent the SUV from rolling. 

Issues

While it is great overall, expect to see some problems in the 2015 Ford Escape. From engine stalling to brake failure, several issues can be apparent. 

9. 2014 Ford Escape 

J.D Power Reliability Rating: 77/100

Car and Driver Overall Rating: N/A

Impressive Compact SUV

While this is the oldest Ford Escape on this list, it still ranks decent in its reliability. It may not have the same advanced features as the more modern Ford Escapes, but it is competent. Whether it is on rain or snow, this is an impressive compact SUV. 

Available in Three Engines

This five-seat crossover is available in three engines, designed to be stronger than most competitors. If you want the best fuel economy and performance, it is hard to go wrong with the four-cylinder 1.6-liter engine with a consumption of approximately 23 to 31 mpg. 

Issues

Nonetheless, the 2014 Ford Escape has many reliability issues. A common problem is a transmission, which can cost up to $4,000 to fix. A leaking coolant is another issue that can confront its owners. 

Conclusion – Ford Escape Reliability [How Reliable is the Escape?] 

If you are looking for a compact SUV, it is hard to go wrong with a Ford Escape. Through the years, it has been redesigned to offer more innovative features. From the interior to the exterior, it is incredible. It has excellent performance on a variety of terrains. Plus, despite its category as a compact SUV, it has generous interior space. 

Looking for the right Ford Escape for your needs? As noted above, here is a quick summary of its reliability ratings: 

Year	J.D. Power Reliability Rating	Car & Driver Overall Rating
2022 Ford Escape	N/A	7.5/10
2021 Ford Escape	N/A	7.5/10
2020 Ford Escape	72/100	7.5/10
2019 Ford Escape	86/100	8.0/10
2018 Ford Escape	83/100	8.0/10
2017 Ford Escape	86/100	8.0/10
2016 Ford Escape	83/100	N/A
2015 Ford Escape	83/100	N/A
2014 Ford Escape	77/100	N/A

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