2017 Ford Escape
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2017 Ford Escape, formatted for your website. The 2017 Ford Escape is a compact SUV offering a blend of practicality and driving enjoyment. Engine options include a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder (168 hp, 170 lb-ft torque), a 1.5L EcoBoost four-cylinder (179 hp, 177 lb-ft torque), and a 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder (245 hp, 275 lb-ft torque). All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Escape’s responsive handling and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes include reported issues with reliability, particularly with the EcoBoost engines and transmission, and some find the rear cargo space smaller than competitors.
Engine
2.5L 4-Cylinder
- No Issues Found
1.5L EcoBoost 4-Cylinder
- Coolant Intrusion/Engine Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks into the cylinders due to a design flaw in the engine block. This can lead to white smoke from the exhaust, rough running, misfires, and eventually catastrophic engine failure. The issue is related to cylinder head cracking.
- Solution: Engine replacement. In some cases, a redesigned engine block may prevent recurrence.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: 21V-112, 22V-837
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some 1.5L EcoBoost engines consume an excessive amount of oil, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil between changes, and a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Diagnosis is key. Possible solutions include replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or, in severe cases, engine replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $6,000+ (depending on the severity)
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L EcoBoost 4-Cylinder
- No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration, slipping between gears, and harsh or erratic shifting, especially between 1st and 3rd gear. This can stem from valve body issues or general wear and tear.
- Solution: Transmission flush, valve body replacement, or full transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush) - $4,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Dead Battery
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, especially in cold weather. This can be due to a parasitic drain or a faulty battery.
- Solution: Diagnose the electrical system for parasitic draws. Replace the battery with a higher-capacity battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- SYNC 3 Freezing/Malfunctioning
- Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 3 infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or exhibit various software glitches.
- Solution: Performing a master reset of the SYNC system, software updates from Ford, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Hatch Alignment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty closing the rear hatch, misalignment causing rubbing, or excessive wind noise.
- Solution: Adjusting the hatch latch and hinges to achieve proper alignment.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
Interior
- No Issues Found
Summary:
The 2017 Ford Escape has several known issues, particularly with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission. The coolant intrusion problem with the 1.5L EcoBoost is the most severe, potentially leading to engine replacement. Electrical issues, especially battery drain and SYNC problems, are also common complaints. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s service history before purchasing. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor electrical fixes to several thousand for engine or transmission replacements.