2022 Ford Escape

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2022 Ford Escape, categorized by component, engine/transmission option, with descriptions, solutions, estimated costs, and recall information. The 2022 Ford Escape is a compact SUV offering a variety of powertrains, including a 1.5L EcoBoost I3 (181 hp, 190 lb-ft torque), a 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (250 hp, 280 lb-ft torque), a 2.5L I4 Hybrid (200 hp combined), and a 2.5L I4 Plug-in Hybrid (221 hp combined). The 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid models use an eCVT. Owners often praise the Escape’s fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and available technology. Common dislikes include the sometimes sluggish acceleration with the base engine and the confusing infotainment system for some users.

Engine

1.5L EcoBoost I3

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, shaking, check engine light illuminated, loss of power. Often caused by coolant intrusion into the cylinders due to a cracked cylinder head.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head and potentially other damaged components such as spark plugs or ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+ (due to the complexity of the repair and potential for further engine damage)
  • Recalls: 22V-687: Certain 1.5L engines may experience an engine oil separator failure that allows oil to enter the intake manifold and potentially cause an engine fire.
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil warning light illuminated frequently, needing to add oil between scheduled oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the PCM can help manage oil consumption. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (PCM Update) to $4,000+ (Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost I4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L I4 Hybrid

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls during low-speed maneuvers or while idling, especially after the electric motor has been running.
  • Solution: Software update to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to improve engine management.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L I4 Plug-in Hybrid

• Battery Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak near the high voltage battery and reduced acceleration performance
  • Solution: Replacement of the high voltage battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: 22V-051: High Voltage Battery may have an issue where it overheats.

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (paired with 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 (Software Update), $800 - $1,500 (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found

eCVT (paired with 2.5L Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Sync 4 system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes randomly.
  • Solution: Software update to the Sync 4 system. In some cases, a full system reset might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update), Dealership labor costs may vary for system reset.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displays a black screen or distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the wiring is good, replace the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Locks Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working with key fob or door switch.
  • Solution: Can be caused by wiring harnesses being severed or disconnected in the door. Requires the wiring to be repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks into Tail Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation or water accumulation inside the tail light housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the tail light assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or only partially heating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2022 Ford Escape has a range of potential issues. The most significant ones involve engine problems, particularly with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine (misfires, oil consumption) and the 2.5L Plug-in Hybrid high voltage battery. These issues can be expensive to repair, potentially costing thousands of dollars. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and backup camera are also relatively common. While the hybrid models have fewer engine-related problems, they can experience stalling issues or battery coolant leaks that require software updates or part replacements. Overall, a thorough inspection and maintenance history check are recommended before purchasing a used 2022 Ford Escape, particularly one equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine or the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain.