Sometimes, even trusted automakers and some of their beloved models have their bad years. HotCars has released a list of vehicles made in recent years that it would not recommend buying for various reasons. Mainly because the vehicles have reliability issues, a significant mechanical issue, a long recall list, or some other reason ownership can be expensive. As a result, you should avoid five specific model years. What problems do they have and why should used buyers steer clear of a specific Explorer, Expedition, Edge, Escape and EcoSport?
1. 2017 Ford Explorer
First, it’s no secret that she’s had her struggles. While an ultra-popular midsize SUV today, the Explorer has had many reliability issues in the past. There’s still a lot to love about it today, and most of the reliability issues have been fixed with modern releases. However, the 2017 model year was a bad year for it.
, the 2017 Ford Explorer has had 10 recalls since it went on sale just six years ago. There were minor issues, such as a loose roof rail, and more critical issues. For example, a fracture of the rear toe link could lead to loss of steering control while riding. Other issues that plagued the 2017 model include wheel separation due to a lack of self-retention features and heat shield issues that can lead to overheating of the steering gear.
2. Ford Expedition 2018
Next, the large SUV segment is filled with excellent options, like today’s 2023. However, in the past, shipping wasn’t always perfect. Notably, in 2018, HC says the full-size model had six recalls, mostly for the seats and powertrain. Many buyers are often interested in a used Expedition of this model year because it has been redesigned. Callbacks may be enough to convince them otherwise.
The second-row seats were missing bolster brackets, which meant the seats could move in a crash. Subsequently, the 10-speed automatic may lose its “Park” function because a rolling pin has not been installed. Suppose you can understand what happens when a large SUV cannot switch to “Parking” properly.
3. 2012 Ford Edge
It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for something more reasonably priced for a used Ford SUV. However, HC says the 2012 model year is best avoided. This model year has MyFord Touch controls which famously force drivers to take their eyes off the road. Unlike other Ford SUVs that sat down the buy, this one has had only three recalls.
Unfortunately, the three recalls are significant enough to be as bad as 10 for the Explorer. They include fluid leaks that can cause fires and a connecting shaft that can disengage while driving. Many Ford SUVs made in the past 10 years suffer from recalls that cause vital parts to stop working.
4. Ford Escape 2020
For the 2020 model year, the automaker redesigned the . It changed to a raised sedan body style, which to many looks more like a big car than a small crossover. Additionally, the 2020 Escape gained new advanced safety features, powertrains and technology. Even with these updates, it wasn’t enough to avoid the problems.
HC says the 2020 Ford Escape has had 10 recalls. Many are significant problems, such as electrical system malfunctions, which can cause a loss of engine power. Used SUV buyers probably want to avoid dealing with them on a regular basis.
5. Ford EcoSport 2019
Finally, 2019 is also best avoided. Throughout the EcoSport’s life, it was ridiculed and consistently inferior to other SUVs in Ford’s range. The 2019 model year is no different, as it ultimately led to the vehicle being discontinued after 2022.
HotCars claims the 2019 model year has excellent handling with no power to match. Also, most owners experience engine problems with EcoSport speed lagging behind the driver’s behavior on the pedal. Other owners have complained of a loss of engine oil pressure due to broken engine oil pump belt tensioners.
Ford SUVs of these model years are best avoided
Bottom line, five Ford SUVs from the previous decade are best avoided in the used car market. Stay away from Explorer 2017, Expedition 2018, Edge 2012, Escape 2020 and EcoSport 2019. Each has some problems that owners shouldn’t face. For example, many have recalls that cause extravagant and costly problems or that endanger the driver and passengers. Others are just plain bad, like the EcoSport with its tiny, rousing engine and the Escape which can lose power.
