Ford has been around for decades, so there are plenty of examples to choose from on the used market. When choosing a used car, it’s important to research its . The bigger your vehicle, the less you will spend on annual maintenance and unexpected repairs.
Overall, most drivers don’t have many issues with their Ford Escape SUVs. However, some frustrating problems plague some model years. Based on reviews from real drivers, here are the worst Ford Escape models that should be avoided.
catalogs over 100 problems related to excessive wheel well and shock tower rust. Because it can cause potential safety issues, many drivers have had their wheel arches completely replaced to the tune of $1,260.
At around 101,900 miles, many drivers reported that the Escape’s PCM computer failed completely. This system monitors essential vehicle diagnostics and checks the fuel system’s air/fuel ratio, so you can’t drive without it. Replacing this unit on the 2005 Ford Escape usually costs around $2,050.
Some drivers have reported even more alarming problems, including stuck accelerator pedals and engine stalling while the vehicle is running. After you’ve passed 87,000 miles on the odometer, you may have to watch out for a exploding rear window.
2. 2008 Ford Escape
CarComplaints users warn that transmission failure is very common on the 2008 Ford Escape, usually near the 87,000 mile mark. Most drivers report that the problem comes without warning, despite pristine inspection reports just beforehand. Replacing the transmission is usually the only option, which could cost anywhere between $3,000 and $4,000.
Once this Escape model has accumulated approximately 108,100 miles, the power steering also starts to malfunction. Most drivers have had to replace the power steering column, while others have solved the problem by replacing some sensors. The 2008 Ford Escape also typically has rust and paint problems, usually starting around 54,000 miles.
3. 2009 Ford Escape
confirms that the 2009 Ford Escape shares the same troubling transmission issues as the previous model year. Some drivers have also reported that their transmission starts drifting around 21,000 miles.
However, the drivers were informed that the transmission was fully functional after taking their car to a dealership. Other mechanics have provided relatively cheaper repair solutions, such as a computer upgrade or a new drive shaft. Unfortunately, drivers often found themselves back at the dealership a month later.
4. 2013 Ford Escape
If you buy a , CarComplaints says you’ll have to worry about the engine and transmission. Near the 51,000 mile mark, the engine has overheating issues and has even been reported to shut down while driving. While most drivers didn’t end up replacing their engines, many did get a lot of headaches thanks to repeat dealership visits.
In most cases, replacing the fuel sensor (which averages $590) fixed the problem. However, one driver reported having to replace that sensor three times.
5. 2014 Ford Escape
Considers the 2014 Ford Escape the worst model because it is prone to costly problems relatively early in its life. The transmission usually only lasts for an average of 83,700 miles and costs over $4,000 to replace.
To make matters worse, despite numerous complaints and reported problems, it has never been called back for this specific transmission issue. The only thing Ford eventually replaced was a faulty shift cable.
In all, every Escape model on this list has been included in far more recalls than the average SUV. None of them are worth it, especially when other used Escape and SUV options have .
