2021 Ford Escape

The 2021 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and technology. Engine options include a 1.5L EcoBoost inline-3 engine producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4 engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle inline-4 hybrid engine producing 200 horsepower. All gas engines come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid utilizes an eCVT. Owners often praise the Escape’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes include the sometimes unrefined engine noise from the 1.5L EcoBoost and the relatively small cargo area compared to some competitors.

Engine

1.5L EcoBoost Inline-3

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. This can be indicated by the low oil pressure warning light or engine knocking noises.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or engine flush may resolve the issue. However, if the oil consumption is severe, engine component replacement (such as piston rings) or a full engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $6,000+ depending on the repair required.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners experience engine misfires, rough idling, and a loss of power, particularly under acceleration. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost Inline-4

• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported coolant intrusion into the cylinders, leading to misfires and engine damage. The head gasket may be failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the cylinder head and head gasket is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L iVCT Atkinson Cycle Inline-4 (Hybrid)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Some owners also experience hesitation or delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission control module (TCM) software update can improve shifting performance. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or, in rare instances, full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

eCVT (Hybrid)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This could be related to worn or loose suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn suspension components, such as sway bar links, bushings, or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 3 infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset, software update, or in some cases, replacing the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera system. The screen may display a black or distorted image, or the camera may not activate at all when the vehicle is put in reverse.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring harness. Replacing the camera unit itself may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported unexplained battery drain issues, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain on the electrical system. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported windshields cracking easily from small impacts or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof area, potentially causing water damage to the headliner and interior trim.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drain tubes or replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Ford Escape presents a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 1.5L EcoBoost and 2.0L EcoBoost engines, can be concerning due to the potential for costly repairs. Transmission issues, while less frequent, can also lead to significant expenses. Electrical issues, especially related to the infotainment system, are more common annoyances than major mechanical failures. Suspension and interior issues appear to be less prevalent overall. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially major repairs, with estimated costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific problem and its solution.