⌘K
Find a vehicle
RecallsCompareNewsPricing
Your vehicle
VIN decoderWindow stickerProblems by systemTitle brands
Federal filings
Service bulletinsOwner complaintsInvestigationsEarly Warning reportsWarranty extensionsDriver-assist crashesTrouble codes
Browse the record
GuidesRankingsAll makesQuarterly reportsWhat is in the data
Paperwork
Repair Claim KitCar CheckFor attorneysFor expert witnessesFor repair shopsRecall disclosure formRecall fix sheets
Tools and data
Recall WatchFleet VIN checkCost calculatorsCar crosswordAPI & data
Sign inGarage
Your vehicleHome›Ford›Escape› 2021
Ford · Compact SUV

2021 Ford Escape

Plug-in hybrid Hybrid Gas
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
6 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
13 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Counts recalls, not crash safety — this vehicle earned 5 of 5 stars from NHTSA. A much-recalled best-seller scores low here; see the methodology.
Recalls9 critical 21
Complaints12 crash · 11 fire · 8 injured reported 497
Crash ratingNHTSA overall 5★
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 41 mpg
20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2021 Ford Escape is sold in the U.S. as a plug-in hybrid, hybrid and gas compact SUV with 6 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the Escape FWD HEV, is EPA-rated at 41 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 21 recall campaigns for this model year, 9 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 497 complaints, most often about the structure. NHTSA crash-tested it at 5 stars overall.

Ford Escape — photograph via Wikimedia Commons
Ford Escape (2001 generation) · Photo: Elise240SX · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombRangekWh/100miCharge (240V)Annual fuel*
Escape FWD PHEVPlug-in hybridFWD2.5L 4-cyl + 62 kW DCPM433840 (67 MPGe blended)37 mi electric323.3 h$1,700
Escape FWD HEVHybridFWD2.5L 4-cyl + 216V Li-Ion443741———$1,650
Escape AWD HEVHybrid4WD (part-time)2.5L 4-cyl + 216V Li-Ion433740———$1,700
Escape FWDGasFWD1.5L 3-cyl turbo283430———$2,250
Escape AWDGasAWD1.5L 3-cyl turbo263128———$2,400
Escape AWDGasAWD2.0L 4-cyl turbo233126———$2,600

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 43912, 43644, 43649, 43645, 43650, 43651.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
Escape AWD HEV, Escape FWD HEV, Escape FWD PHEV7 / 10California LEV-III SULEV30 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 30All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standardsSmartWay
Escape AWD, Escape FWD7 / 10California LEV-III SULEV30 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 30All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—
Escape AWD5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors4
GVWR classClass 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Engine Basics

Cylinders4
Displacement2.5 L
Engine configurationIn-Line

Fuel Economy

FuelGasoline

Seating

Seat rows2
Seating capacity5 seats

Transmission

Drivetrain4x2
TransmissionContinuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Transmission speeds8

Driver assistance

Standard: Adaptive cruise control, Anti-lock brakes, Backup camera, Blind-spot monitoring, Electronic stability control, Forward collision warning, Lane departure warning, Lane keeping assist, Parking assist, Pedestrian automatic emergency braking, Rear cross-traffic alert

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes the configurations we could identify rather than every trim (seen: S, SE, SE FHEV, SE PHEV). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length180.7 in
Width (body, without mirrors)74.0 in
Height66.1 in
Wheelbase106.7 in
Track, front62.6 in
Track, rear61.8 in
Curb weight3,298–3,885 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear58/42 to 59/41

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here 6 configurations: 4-door SUV 1.5L AWD, 4-door SUV 1.5L FWD, 4-door SUV 2.0L AWD, 4-door SUV 2.5L Hybrid AWD, 4-door SUV 2.5L Hybrid FWD, 4-door SUV 2.5L PHEV AWD. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

Also on file Beside the 2021 Escape
Other years The 2026 Escape Recalls Ford recalls
Advertisement

Factory warranty running out?

The 2021 Ford Escape is in the years where high-voltage electronics and module repairs land on the owner. What an extended plan does and does not cover is worth reading before a dealer quotes you one.

What to check before you buy →

Affiliate disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you request a quote or buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing on this page changes because of it.

Recalls (21)

Source: NHTSA recall database
▲high

Visibility

26S14
604,533 vehicles
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly. Risk Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFInterim owner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V117000 reported Mar 3, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

26C11
889,950 vehicles 12% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 26V123000 reported Mar 3, 2026 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Structure

25SD6
108,762 vehicles 15% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2025 Escape vehicles. The liftgate hinge covers may not be properly secured and detach from the vehicle. Risk A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and reinstall, or replace any missing liftgate hinge covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD6. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 3, 2025.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V829000 reported Dec 1, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Electrical System

25SC4
20,558 vehicles 32% reported repaired Plug-in hybrid only
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure. Risk Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM), free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC4. Vehicles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V954 a
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V789000 reported Nov 14, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Equipment

25SA4
59,006 vehicles
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in. Risk An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFInterim owner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V685000 reported Oct 10, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

25S76
694,271 vehicles
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment. Risk A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 29, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford'
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFInterim owner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V467000 reported Jul 11, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

25S72
200,237 vehicles 59% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended. Risk A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V442000 reported Jun 27, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Engine

25S54
1,809 vehicles 71% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2021-2023 Corsair, and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V380. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire. Risk An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury. Fix Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S54.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V345000 reported May 23, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

25S21
33,576 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 22V-859 or 24V-187. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment. Risk A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S21.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDFChronology PDF
NHTSA campaign 25V165000 reported Mar 14, 2025 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Electrical System

24S79
20,484 vehicles 86% reported repaired built Jul 10, 2019 – Apr 17, 2024
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure. Risk Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire. Fix Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update, and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S79.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDFChronology PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V954000 reported Dec 20, 2024 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Equipment

24C39
27,678 vehicles 66% reported repaired built Jul 29, 2019 – Sep 13, 2024
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection." Risk Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash. Fix Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V852000 reported Nov 8, 2024 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Power Train

24S33
9,312 vehicles 99% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power. Risk A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 24V330000 reported May 10, 2024 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Engine

23S27
125,322 vehicles 89% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2022-2023 Maverick, and 2021-2023 Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire. Risk An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury. Fix Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will replace the engine long-block in 2023 Escape and Corsair vehicles. For the other vehicles, dealers will update the powertrain control module software. If a connecting rod bearing failure is detected, dealers will replace the engine long-block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notific
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 23V380000 reported May 26, 2023 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

22S73
521,746 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment. Risk A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previ
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V859000 reported Nov 18, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
!critical

Engine And Engine Cooling

22S47
100,689 vehicles 95% reported repaired built Jan 19, 2019 – Jun 13, 2022
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair, and 2022 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire. Risk An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury. Fix Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will modify the under engine shield and active grille shutter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S47.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V484000 reported Jul 7, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

22S21
345,451 vehicles 94% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. The engine oil separator housing may crack and develop an oil leak. Risk An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S21.
NHTSA campaign 22V191000 reported Mar 25, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Hybrid Propulsion System

21S48
3 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Corsair and 2021-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.5L Hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power. Risk A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S48.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V149000 reported Mar 11, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

22S10
155 vehicles 86% reported repaired Hybrid only
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage. Risk Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. Fix Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 2, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S10.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V109000 reported Feb 24, 2022 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Service Brakes, Hydraulic

21C31
114,666 vehicles 94% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles. The rear brake linings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can affect braking performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems." Risk During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31.
NHTSA campaign 21V922000 reported Nov 23, 2021 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Hybrid Propulsion System

21S48
1 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 Escape vehicle equipped with a 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power. Risk A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. Fix A dealer will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. The owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S48.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V869000 reported Nov 10, 2021 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

21S38
13,773 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result in an engine stall. Risk An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S38.
Filed with NHTSADefect report PDFOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V625000 reported Aug 10, 2021 Ford Motor Company the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

NHTSA defect investigations

Structure:Body:Door:Hinge And Attachments — Failed Door Check Arm Attachment Point closed

On July 7, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-013 to investigate instances of check arm bracket failure in the front doors in model year (MY) 2020-2021 Ford Escape vehicles. At the time of opening, ODI received 118 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging this failure. To date, ODI has received 593 VOQs alleging this failure, with a variety of reported failure conditions. The most common reported failure condition was reduced door functionality (e.g. door was more difficult to open or close) and the least common was inadvertent door opening. Other reported failure conditions include inability to latch and inability to open. Three VOQs reported injuries, one of wh

Opened Jul 7, 2023 · closed Jan 24, 2024 · action PE23013 · the investigation’s page →

Electrical System:Propulsion System — Pedestrian alert sounds closed

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021. On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject mat

Opened Jan 27, 2023 · closed Aug 7, 2023 · action DP22005 · the investigation’s page →

Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Fuel Pump:Control/Drive Module — Healey Brothers Ford / Open Recall Sale open

NHTSA is opening this audit query to investigate whether Healey Brothers Ford, LLC of Beacon, New York, has complied with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The Safety Act requires, among other things, that a manufacturer notify its dealers of defects related to motor vehicle safety and noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and in turn that a dealer not deliver a new vehicle subject to a recall unless the recall remedy has been performed. 49 U.S.C. § 30120(i).NHTSA is in receipt of information that indicates this dealer delivered at least one new vehicle to a first purchaser without having performed required recall repairs. Accordingly,

Opened Jun 3, 2022 · action AQ22002 · the investigation’s page →

Whether any of this applies to one specific Escape

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2021 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Ford publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

NHTSA VIN check →Ford’s own VIN lookup →

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2021 Ford Escape, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

Advertisement

Parts & accessories for the 2021 Ford Escape

Search by fitment on eBay Motors — OEM take-offs, aftermarket, and the trim pieces dealers no longer stock. The listing and the price are the seller's.

Find parts for this Escape →

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
497complaints filed

12 involved a crash · 11 a fire · 8 injuries · 0 deaths reported

47 per 10,000 built · Ford reported 106,446 Escape built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2021: 12 · 2022: 57 · 2023: 120 · 2024: 102 · 2025: 89 · 2026: 117

Most-cited components

Structure → 127
Engine → 91
Fuel/Propulsion System → 83
Unspecified 76
Power Train → 62
Service Brakes → 51

In depth: body and structure problems → · engine problems → · fuel system problems → · electrical problems → · transmission and drivetrain problems → · brake problems →

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V954000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.
Electrical System May 28, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11663389
The contact owned a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH and attempting to slow the vehicle, he became dizzy then suddenly fainted, and as a result, he briefly lost control of the vehicle and came to a complete stop after colliding with the curb.
Engine at 29,000 miles May 3, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11586824
Power train lost during driving, suddenly the car lost the power and a light in the dashboard start blinking, it recovers after a few times turning it on and off, seems to be triggered by brake pedal press, car has been having issues since Oct 2025 after unplugged it
Power Train Aug 24, 2026 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11759090
Received a notice that a recall was necessary to correct fuel vapor issues which might result in a fire. Simultaneously notified the dealer that the brake booster was defective. They agreed and both assured me the part had been delivered and subsequently informed me that the part for the brakes was defective.
Service Brakes Dec 23, 2022 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11498629
Our 2021 Ford Escape has "Intelligent" adaptive cruise control. It has the capacity to adjust our car speed based on the highway speed limit signs it encounters. It reads all speed correctly but it also reads "black and white, square, numeric, County Road signs as Speed Signs.
Vehicle Speed Control Jun 5, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11592683
I was issued a letter back in June 2023 on this recall. Parts were supposed to be available by October 2023. It is now almost March of 2024 with no remedy
Fuel/Propulsion System Feb 16, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11572280

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Ford itself: 14 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 16 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 13 per 100,000 built. Every Escape model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

When owners reported it

Reported at 39k

miles, typically

Half the 99 owner reports with an odometer reading on file fall between 14,000 and 59,000 miles. That is when problems get reported, which is not the same as when they start — and not a failure rate, because nobody knows how many of these cars never had a problem at all.

under 10k 21
10k–20k 12
20k–30k 5
30k–40k 15
40k–50k 14
50k–60k 8
60k–70k 3
70k–80k 7
80k–90k 4
90k–100k 5
100k–150k 5
150k + 0

Median mileage by component

ComponentReportsMedian milesVs same age
Structure2741,0001.5×
Electrical System2137,6001.34×
Service Brakes175,0000.25×
Power Train1573,9251.51×
Fuel/Propulsion System1270,0001.52×

Vs same age is this model year’s median for the system divided by the median of every 2021-model-year complaint about the same system, all makes: under 1× means owners of this car reported it at lower mileage. Here, owners reported earlier than same-age vehicles: service brakes (0.25×); later: structure (1.5×), power train (1.51×), fuel/propulsion system (1.52×). Which systems go early across the whole fleet: the component study.

Across 2018–2022 model years the Ford Escape ranks 75 of 79 nameplates in the odometer-at-first-complaint study: owners reported problems at 2.78× the mileage of vehicles the same age (median 60,000 miles against a fleet 23,512).

Odometer readings as filed by owners with NHTSA. Readings under 100 or over 400,000 miles are dropped as data entry rather than history, and a component needs at least 12 readings before a median is shown for it.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP
ConfigurationOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆17%
SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆17%
SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆17%
SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆17%

NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. Standard driver-assist: lane departure warning.

Driver-assist crash reports (2)

Source: NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01
2reports filed

1 minor · 1 no injury reported

Jun 2023 to Feb 2024 · 2 with an air bag deployment · 2 towed

What was engaged, and what was hit

System named: Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ (1), CoPilot 360 Assist+ (1)

Crash partner: Other 1 · Passenger Car 1

Filed by: Ford Motor Company

IncidentSystemStruckInjury allegedStateSpeedReport
Feb 2024Level 2 · CoPilot 360 Assist+Passenger Carno injury reportedIL65 mph502-7283
Jun 2023Level 2 · Co-Pilot 360 Assist+OtherminorIN—502-5810

From the manufacturer’s own filing

The reporting entity’s narrative as NHTSA published it, with anything identifying removed and nothing added. A narrative is a notice, written before the entity had verified what happened.

No new incidents to report for the 10-Day update submission (report# 502-5810) Due to an application error, the NHTSA SGO portal server was unavailable on July 10, 2023, therefore the submission was completed on July 11, 2023
Ford Motor Company report 502-5810 Jun 2023 NHTSA SGO filing
The driver of the Escape was traveling east on [redacted] while using ACC/LCA. A BMW in the adjacent lane abruptly cut into the driver's lane, resulting in a collision with the front-right of the Escape.
Ford Motor Company report 502-7283 Feb 2024 NHTSA SGO filing

A report under the General Order is a notice the manufacturer or operator must file within days of hearing of a crash in which a Level 2 driver-assist or automated-driving system was engaged within 30 seconds of impact. It is filed before anything is verified, and entities with telematics hear of far more crashes than entities that rely on complaints, so counts say as much about the reporting as about the car and are not comparable across makes. Nothing is normalised by fleet size. Every report on file, by make and year → · NHTSA’s page and files

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 229
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-09-22
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 214 service bulletins, 15 others

Most often about: Electrical System, Unknown Or Other, Power Train, Equipment, Engine.

  • TSB 26-2092 V2 Service bulletin
    2026-09-22 · Unknown Or Other
  • This article supersedes TSB 25-2466 to add Bronco Sport, Escape, Maverick and Corsair, as well as removing Expedition and Navigator. One time use parts for Corsair and Bronco Sport were also added to the parts list. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit a headliner rattle or sagging condition around the roof opening panel. This may be due to the adhesive separating f
  • 26N15 Other
    2026-08-28 · Unknown Or Other
  • Customer Satisfaction Program 26N15 Certain 2020-2026 Model Year Escape and 2021-2026 Model Year Corsair Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) – High Voltage Battery Replacement
  • SSM 55100 Service bulletin
    2026-08-22 · Seats
  • For Various Ford and Lincoln vehicles, if diagnostics lead to the replacement of the front seat cushion cover J-clips, lower-level service parts are now available. Use service part W709919-S901 if the J-clip is completely detached from the seat cover and W715386-S424 if the clip is still partially attached. It is not necessary to replace the seat cover if only the J-clip is separating from the cov
  • 25M03 Other
    2026-08-18 · Engine
  • Customer Satisfaction Program 25M03 Certain 2020-2025 Model Year Escape, 2021-2025 Model Year Corsair and 2022- 2025 Model Year Maverick Vehicles equipped with a 2.5L Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid engine - Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Differential Pressure Sensor Replacement, if Required After Dealer Evaluation
  • TSB 26-2328 Service bulletin
    2026-07-15 · Power Train
  • This bulletin supersedes 26-2194. Reason for update: update the Parts list to correct a part description " Loctite 638", update the claim quantity for the drain/fill plug, update the claim quantity of the wheel hub bolts (Corsair) and limited the parts list for Edge/Nautilus to only the rear drive unit fluid. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following
  • SSM 54939 Service bulletin
    2026-06-16 · Power Train
  • Some 2020-2026 Corsair/Escape, 2021-2026 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2026 Maverick vehicles equipped with an 8F35 transmission may exhibit a shudder condition, most noticeable at speeds below 60 mph (100 km/h), with no relevant diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). Sometimes, this may be perceived/felt as an engine misfire. This may be due to the torque converter
  • SSM 54857 Service bulletin
    2026-05-21 · Fuel/Propulsion System
  • 2020-2026 Explorer/Escape/Corsair, 2021-2026 Bronco Sport/Bronco, 2022-2026 Maverick, 2024-2026 Mustang/Ranger/Nautilus vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 2.3L EcoBoost engine may require removal of the turbocharger wastegate control actuator linkage for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-04 Fuel Charging and Controls - Turbocharger - 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost > Removal and Installatio
  • TSB 26-2205 Service bulletin
    2026-05-18 · Unknown Or Other
  • This bulletin supersedes 25-2346. Reason for update: add Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles and add labor operations to repair the rear right/left carpet area. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit a condition where the carpet is loose or torn near the front/rear scuff plate trim panel. This may be due to the carpet tearing at or near the retainer hole.

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

Diagnostic trouble codes on file

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications and complaints

Codes documented against this model year in the federal record. A code appearing here does not mean this vehicle will set it — it means the code is part of this nameplate-year's documented history.

CodeWhat it meansMost often filed underWhere it appears
U3000
U3000 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Steering9 bulletins
C0051
C0051 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Vehicle Speed Control4 bulletins
P0106
P0106 on Ford →		The manifold pressure sensor reading does not track what the engine is doing.Engine4 bulletins
P0011
P0011 on Ford →		Camshaft timing on bank 1 is more advanced than commanded.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0012
P0012 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0014
P0014 on Ford →		The second camshaft on bank 1 is timed further advanced than commanded.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0015
P0015 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0016
P0016 on Ford →		The crankshaft and camshaft are not where they should be relative to each other — timing, chain or phaser.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0017
P0017 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0018
P0018 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0019
P0019 on Ford →		Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins
P0021
P0021 on Ford →		Camshaft timing on bank 2 is more advanced than commanded.Electrical System · Battery →3 bulletins

Generic codes (the second character is 0 or 2) mean the same thing on every vehicle sold in the United States. Manufacturer-specific codes (1 or 3) mean whatever the automaker assigned, and no honest source can define them for you — which is why the ones here carry the evidence instead of a definition. A code is a link when enough separate federal documents name it across the catalogue to be worth a page of its own; the rest are listed here, where the vehicle is the context that makes them mean something.

Affiliate disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you request a quote or buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing on this page changes because of it.

At the New York inspection station

Source: New York State DMV

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Ford Escape failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.7% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%).

New York inspections 2.7%

failed emissions

3,006 initial inspections of 2,936 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2021 EscapeEvery 2021 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check2.7%1.9%2,942
Failed the safety inspection1.7%1.5%3,006
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.07%0.19%3,006
Miles driven a year10,04010,343odometer at inspection
Average odometer52,72154,681odometer at inspection

New York’s emissions test on these model years is an on-board diagnostics check: it fails a car whose check-engine light is on or whose self-tests have not finished. First inspections only, so a car that failed and came back is counted once; private and special plates, not taxis, livery or commercial plates. A rate appears only where at least 200 inspections stand behind it. “Every 2021 vehicle” is every 2021 model-year car, SUV and pickup inspected in the same window, all makes. This is the state’s record of test results, not a reliability score by itself. Source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspections (data.ny.gov, Open NY terms).

Escape by model year

all years, side by side →
Year Safety Recalls Complaints
2026 C 3 4 40 mpg2025 F 10 31 40 mpg2024 F 10 88 39 mpg2023 F 13 138 40 mpg2022 F 21 384 41 mpg2021 this page F 21 497 41 mpg2020 F 25 1,905 41 mpg2019 C 3 596 26 mpg2018 D 4 1,821 26 mpg2017 C 4 2,701 26 mpg2016 D 4 1,167 26 mpg

Common questions about the 2021 Escape

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2021 Ford Escape have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 21 recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford Escape, 9 of them rated critical. The most serious on file is 25V789000, covering Electrical System. 6 of them were filed with no repair available at the time — NHTSA's file records what the manufacturer had in hand on the filing date, not what exists today. The manufacturer's own estimate for when a fix would be ready: December 2026, July 2026, November 2026. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2021 Ford Escape?

NHTSA gave the 2021 Ford Escape 5 stars overall in its New Car Assessment Program tests — 5-star frontal crash, 5-star side crash, 4-star rollover. WhichTrim also grades it F (13/100) on its recall record, which is a different question from crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2021 Ford Escape?

Across the 6 EPA-rated configurations of the 2021 Ford Escape, the best EPA combined figure is 41 mpg (MPGe on the electrified versions). Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2021 Ford Escape?

Transport Canada measured it at 180.7 in long, 74.0 in wide (body, without mirrors), 66.1 in tall, on a 106.7 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 3,298–3,885 lb depending on configuration. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2021 Ford Escape?

Owners have filed 497 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Ford Escape, most often about structure, engine, fuel/propulsion system. Of those, 12 involved a crash, 11 a fire, 8 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2021 Ford Escape?

The EPA smog rating for the 2021 Ford Escape runs 5 to 7 out of 10 across its configurations. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — California LEV-III SULEV30, California LEV-III ULEV70, Federal Tier 3 Bin 30, Federal Tier 3 Bin 70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2021 Ford Escape?

The manufacturer has filed 229 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2021 Ford Escape, most often covering electrical system, unknown or other, power train. The most recent is dated 2026-09-22. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

How does the 2021 Ford Escape do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Ford Escape failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 1.7% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%). The figures are New York State DMV’s own inspection records, first inspections only, and the table above sets each one against every vehicle of the same model year.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations6 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates6 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls21NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints497NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratings4 testedNHTSA NCAPOnly the configurations NHTSA chose to crash-test, which is never all of them.
Service bulletins229NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
Investigations3NHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationOpen and closed defect investigations, with the agency's own narrative.
Driver-assist crash reports2NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01Crashes the manufacturer or operator reported with a Level 2 or automated-driving system engaged. Notices, filed before verification; not comparable across makes.
Specifications filed with NHTSA12 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Where to go next

pages beside this one
Other years The 2026 Escape The Escape model year with the cleanest record on file — grade C, 3 recalls.Recalls Every Ford recall on file All campaigns filed against Ford vehicles, newest first, with the manufacturer's own number.Recall Watch Watch this Escape by VIN Give it the VIN and you hear the night a campaign is filed — from $29 a month for a lot, free for ten.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

JSON for this page · API