NHTSA Complaint #11671735 — 2018 FORD ESCAPE

I am the original owner of a 2018 Ford Escape that has been well maintained and serviced regularly at a Ford dealership. Recently, the check engine light came on. Diagnostic codes were P0012 & P0014 in PCM. After a diagnostic inspection, the dealer removed the spark plugs and scoped the cylinders. They found excessive scoring and confirmed that coolant had entered the engine cylinders—a known and widely reported issue in EcoBoost engines. The dealership informed me that the engine would need to be replaced at a cost of $12,000. Although the vehicle is still running at the moment, they indicated it’s only a matter of time before it fails. This Escape has less than 100,000 miles. Through research and conversations with other owners, I’ve learned that this is a recurring issue with Ford EcoBoost engines (1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L) from 2013–2019. There are numerous complaints of coolant intrusion into the engine, leading to misfires, white smoke, stalling, and eventual engine failure. Ford appears to be aware of this issue and issued TSB 22-2229, which recommends replacing the long block engine under certain conditions. However, they are not offering repairs or cost assistance unless the customer presses the issue—and often only after filing complaints or escalating to regional reps. I have personally spoken with at least three other Ford owners who experienced this exact problem. This is a serious defect that could result in unexpected vehicle failure or even fire risk (as some reports have noted) while driving. It poses a safety concern and should be investigated. A recall should be considered.