NHTSA Complaint #11693059 — 2018 FORD ESCAPE

Ford Recall 21N12 – Coolant Intrusion Issue Affected Vehicles: Ford Escape (2017–2019) built between 9/17/15 – 4/9/19 Ford Fusion (2017) built between 10/1/15 – 10/16/15 Ford Fusion (2017–2019) built between 10/6/15 – 6/10/19 Issue: Coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, causing engine misfires. I am writing regarding my 2018 Ford Escape, which falls within the production window affected by recall 21N12. My vehicle is in excellent condition with low mileage (87,050 miles). In August, I experienced a noticeable engine shutter and took the vehicle to an authorized Ford dealer. After inspection, the dealer confirmed that the engine was affected by the known coolant intrusion issue and that the solution required a complete engine block replacement — quoted at $11,000. Unfortunately, I was informed that my vehicle falls just outside Ford’s extended warranty coverage (7 years or 84,000 miles) for this issue. I find this extremely disappointing, as this is a known manufacturing defect that affects a broad range of vehicles, and Ford has chosen to draw an arbitrary line, rather than taking full responsibility for all impacted vehicles. I contacted Ford’s customer service and complaint department both by phone and in writing. Despite my explanation and supporting documentation, Ford refused to offer any assistance or goodwill resolution, citing only that I was beyond the mileage and time limits. It is extremely frustrating that my vehicle — well within the affected build range and with relatively low miles — is now undrivable for over six weeks due to a defective engine, and Ford will not take accountability for an issue they are fully aware of. It is particularly disheartening to see Ford invest in expanding its world headquarters in Dearborn while choosing not to stand behind their products or support loyal customers who are left with major repair bills for known defects.