2013 FORD ESCAPE — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data

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4/5

★★★★

Safety Rating

3,648

Owner Complaints

64 Crashes 128 Fires

18

Recalls

ACTIVE RECALL

39

Service Bulletins

1

Investigation

Overview of the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

The 2013 FORD ESCAPE has received a total of 3,648 safety complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It earned an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program crash tests. There have been 28 recall campaigns affecting this vehicle, covering issues with POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD, POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL), LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH. 39 technical service bulletins have been issued by Ford Motor Company for this model year. The most commonly reported problems involve the Engine (1,254 complaints), Power Train (386 complaints), and Electrical System (330 complaints).

Recalls for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

NHTSA has recorded 28 recalls for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE, potentially affecting up to 21,806,300 vehicles.

Recall 22V413000 — POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD

| 2,925,968 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.

Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected...

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Recall 22V413000 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

| 2,925,968 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.

Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected...

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Recall 20V331000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

| 2,147,323 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making...

Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their...

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Recall 20V331000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

| 2,147,323 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making...

Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their...

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Recall 20V331000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

| 2,147,323 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making...

Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their...

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Recall 20V331000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

| 2,147,323 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making...

Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their...

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Recall 18V471000 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT

| 504,182 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Ford Escape, and 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles, equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The bushing that attaches the transmission shifter cable to the transmission may degrade over time and cause the bushing to detach from the transmission. The condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to Park and remove the...

Consequence: If the vehicle is exited without the transmission being in Park and without the parking brake being applied, the vehicle may unexpectedly move, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S20. Note: Owners are directed...

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Recall 16V643000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

| 2,046,297 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact,...

Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.

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Recall 15V813000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

| 9,017 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured January 11, 2012, to April 1, 2013, and 2013-2014 Focus ST vehicles manufactured May 03, 2012, to October 14, 2013. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may provide incorrect signals to the powertrain control module (PCM).

Consequence: The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began on January 7, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17-S1.

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Recall 14V597000 — SEAT BELTS

| 746,842 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of...

Consequence: The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

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Recall 14V597000 — AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

| 746,842 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of...

Consequence: The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

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Recall 14V597000 — AIR BAGS

| 746,842 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of...

Consequence: The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

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Recall 14V495000 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

| 133,227 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to April 1, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines and Focus ST vehicles manufactured February 14, 2012, to October 14, 2013, and equipped with 2.0 liter engines. Insufficient compression in the engine wiring harness splices to the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor may...

Consequence: The incorrect signals could cause the vehicle to hesitate or the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current crimped splices with new splices, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S17.

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Recall 14V237000 — AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

| 594,785 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.

Consequence: If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

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Recall 14V237000 — AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

| 594,785 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.

Consequence: If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

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Recall 14V239000 — STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

| 581,986 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through April 10, 2014. Due to an assembly misalignment between the exterior door handle and the door outer panel, the affected vehicles have doors that may be difficult to close or may possibly open while driving.

Consequence: A door that opens unexpectedly may result in an unrestrained occupant falling from the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and correct the mounting of the door handles, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this...

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Recall 14V164000 — SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

| 43,135 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced...

Consequence: The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.

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Recall 13V583000 — ENGINE

| 139,917 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, through June 2, 2013 and equipped with 1.6L engines. The affected vehicles may experience localized overheating of the engine cylinder head which may cause cracks that could allow oil to leak.

Consequence: Leaking engine oil may come into contact with a hot engine surface potentially resulting in an engine compartment fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the engine shielding, cooling and control systems, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners may contact Ford...

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Recall 13V584000 — FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

| 9,469 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine subject to prior safety recall NHTSA 12V-336. In some cases, the engine compartment fuel line may have been installed incorrectly when repaired under the prior recall. The misinstalled fuel line could chafe and...

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners and dealers will inspect the engine compartment fuel line, and if necessary, replace it, free of charge. An interim notice will be mailed to owners during January 2014. The recall began on April 9, 2014. Owners...

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Recall 13V085000 — LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

| 5,675 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012, through November 21, 2012. The left rear door child lock was built incorrectly. As a result, the child lock may not engage when the operator uses normal force to...

Consequence: The operator may incorrectly believe the child lock is engaged. However, the door may be opened from the inside, increasing the risk of injury to an unrestrained child.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected rear door latches, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

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Recall 12V551000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

| 80,057 vehicles affected

Defect: This is an update to a recently announced recall. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through November 26, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines, as well as certain model year 2013 Fusion vehicles manufactured from February 3, 2012, through November 29, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. Coolant system leaks may cause the engines...

Consequence: If flammable engine fluids come in contact with the vehicle’s hot exhaust system, a vehicle fire could occur.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine for coolant system leaks and reprogram the vehicle’s powertrain control module and instrument cluster with an updated calibration and overheat strategy software. There will be no charge to owners for...

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Recall 12V431000 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

| 6,146 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through August 31, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. The cylinder head cup plug (freeze plug) may become dislodged resulting in significant loss of engine coolant.

Consequence: As leaking engine coolant evaporates on the hot engine, the glycol may ignite causing an engine compartment fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will seal the existing plug and add a secondary plug cover, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 11, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.

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Recall 12V336000 — FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

| 9,320 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012, and equipped with a 1.6L engine. These vehicles have an engine compartment fuel line which may split, resulting in a leak.

Consequence: If this leak occurs in the presence of an ignition source, there is an increased risk of a fire and/or personal injury.

Remedy: Ford will notify and instruct owners to stop driving their vehicles and contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer to arrange pick-up of their vehicle. Customers will be provided with a rental vehicle if needed. The dealer will replace the engine...

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Recall 12V319000 — STRUCTURE

| 8,266 vehicles affected

Defect: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 8, 2012 THROUGH JUNE 7, 2012. DUE TO MIS-POSITIONED CARPET PADDING THE CENTER CONSOLE TRIM PANEL MAY BE PUSHED OUTBOARD OF THE INTENDED POSITION, REDUCING CLEARANCE RELATIVE TO THE PEDAL PACKAGE.

Consequence: THE REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY RESULT IN THE DRIVER’S FOOT CONTACTING THE SIDE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE TRANSFERRING THE FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CARPET PADDING AND LEFT-SIDE CONSOLE TRIM PANEL REPLACED WITH A NEW PANEL, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

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Recall 12V319000 — SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

| 8,266 vehicles affected

Defect: FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 8, 2012 THROUGH JUNE 7, 2012. DUE TO MIS-POSITIONED CARPET PADDING THE CENTER CONSOLE TRIM PANEL MAY BE PUSHED OUTBOARD OF THE INTENDED POSITION, REDUCING CLEARANCE RELATIVE TO THE PEDAL PACKAGE.

Consequence: THE REDUCED CLEARANCE MAY RESULT IN THE DRIVER’S FOOT CONTACTING THE SIDE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE TRANSFERRING THE FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES AND THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CARPET PADDING AND LEFT-SIDE CONSOLE TRIM PANEL REPLACED WITH A NEW PANEL, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

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Recall 26V011000 — EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

| 116,672 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed February 13, 2026....

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Recall 26V011000 — EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

| 116,672 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed February 13, 2026....

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Recall 26V011000 — EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

| 116,672 vehicles affected

Defect: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed February 13, 2026....

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Owner Complaints for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

3,648 complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE. Below is a breakdown by vehicle component.

Engine
Complaints: 1,254 8 Crashes 66 Fires 14 Injuries
Power Train
Complaints: 386 10 Crashes 6 Fires 12 Injuries
Electrical System
Complaints: 330 3 Crashes 15 Fires 6 Injuries
Steering
Complaints: 296 5 Crashes 4 Injuries
Unknown Or Other
Complaints: 292 3 Crashes 12 Fires 7 Injuries
Fuelpropulsion System
Complaints: 244 1 Crash 13 Fires 3 Injuries
Engine And Engine Cooling
Complaints: 160 1 Fire
Vehicle Speed Control
Complaints: 89 5 Crashes 3 Fires 1 Injury
Structurebody
Complaints: 63 1 Crash 4 Fires 3 Injuries
Service Brakes
Complaints: 60 4 Crashes 3 Injuries
Air Bags
Complaints: 54 10 Crashes 2 Fires 14 Injuries
Latcheslockslinkages
Complaints: 45 2 Crashes 1 Injury
Seat Belts
Complaints: 43 5 Crashes 7 Injuries
Electronic Stability Control Esc
Complaints: 40 2 Fires
Fuel System Gasoline
Complaints: 34 1 Fire
Visibilitywiper
Complaints: 32
Wheels
Complaints: 28 1 Crash 1 Injury
Suspension
Complaints: 24 1 Crash 1 Injury
Latcheslockslinkagesdoorslatch
Complaints: 18
Exterior Lighting
Complaints: 14
Structure
Complaints: 13 1 Injury
Power Trainautomatic Transmissionlever And Linkagefloor Shift
Complaints: 8
Wheelslugsnutsboltsstuds
Complaints: 8
Seats
Complaints: 7 1 Crash 3 Injuries
Structurebodydoor
Complaints: 6 1 Crash 1 Injury
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling System
Complaints: 5
Service Brakes Hydraulicpedals And Linkages
Complaints: 5 1 Crash
Tires
Complaints: 5 1 Crash
Electrical Systemwiring
Complaints: 4
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemhoseslinespipingfittings
Complaints: 3
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryhoses Linespiping And Fittings
Complaints: 3
Lane Departure Blind Spot Detection
Complaints: 3
Power Trainautomatic Transmission
Complaints: 3 1 Fire
Structurebodyhatchbackliftgate
Complaints: 3
Back Over Prevention Sensing System Camera
Complaints: 2
Electrical System Instrument Clusterpanel
Complaints: 2 1 Injury
Electrical System12v24v48v Battery
Complaints: 2
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System
Complaints: 2
Equipment Adaptivemobility
Complaints: 2
Fuel System Gasolinedeliveryfuel Pump
Complaints: 2
Lane Departure Warning
Complaints: 2
Service Brakes Hydraulic
Complaints: 2
Steeringrack And Pinion
Complaints: 2
Tirestreadbelt
Complaints: 2
Visibility
Complaints: 2
Visibilitywindshield
Complaints: 2
Back Over Prevention
Complaints: 1
Back Over Prevention Camera System
Complaints: 1
Back Over Prevention Rearview System Braking
Complaints: 1
Back Over Prevention Warnings
Complaints: 1
Electrical Systemwiringfront Underhood
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systempump
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingengineengine Control Module Ecuecm
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasolineturbosupercharger
Complaints: 1
Engine And Engine Coolingengineoillubrication Oil Cooler
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcatalytic Convertor
Complaints: 1
Equipmentelectricalnavigational Systemglobal Positioning System
Complaints: 1
Equipmentelectricalradiotape Deckcd Etc
Complaints: 1
Exterior Lightingbrake Lights
Complaints: 1
Firerelated
Complaints: 1 1 Fire
Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Braking
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Diesel
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Gasolinestoragetank Assemblyfiller Pipe And Cap
Complaints: 1
Fuel System Other
Complaints: 1
Latcheslockslinkageshatchbackliftgatelock
Complaints: 1 1 Crash
Latcheslockslinkagestrunk Lidlock
Complaints: 1
Power Trainshift Linkagecablerod
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Airantilock
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Airantilockabs Warning Light
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicantilocktraction Controlelectronic Limited Slip
Complaints: 1
Service Brakes Hydraulicfoundation Componentsdiscrotor
Complaints: 1
Steeringcolumn
Complaints: 1
Steeringelectric Power Assist System
Complaints: 1
Steeringgear Box Other Than Rack And Pinion
Complaints: 1
Steeringhydraulic Power Assistpower Steering Fluid
Complaints: 1
Structurebodytailgate
Complaints: 1
Structureframe And Members
Complaints: 1
Structureframe And Membersunderbody Shields
Complaints: 1
Suspensionfrontwheel Bearing
Complaints: 1
Suspensionrear
Complaints: 1
Tirespressure Monitoring And Regulating Systems
Complaints: 1
Traction Control System
Complaints: 1
Vehicle Speed Controlaccelerator Pedal
Complaints: 1
Vehicle Speed Controlcruise Control
Complaints: 1 1 Injury
Visibilitypower Window Devices And Controls
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevices
Complaints: 1
Visibilityrearview Mirrorsdevicesexterior
Complaints: 1
Visibilitywindshield Wiperwashermotor
Complaints: 1

Most Recent Complaints

#11719080 | ENGINE | | N/A miles
This was a recall earlier, twice, and it was supposedly fixed but the fuel vacuum line to the gas tank is leaking and giving off gasoline odors in the passenger area. Also another recall that was supposedly taken care of is an oil leak that is occuring often. The oil was changed only a month ago and already the oil has just about all leaked out. Both of these issues are fire hazards and the fuel leakage can can the operator or passengers to succomb to carbon minoxide. These were told to us by a Ford dealer who put the car on a diagnostic but they are saying that the recall is over and it will cost $1,400. for the fix. I bought this car, in June 2025 ;from a used car dealer. I am still paying on it. I never receive a car history of any kind from this dealer. . I had no idea that there were 18 recalls on this vehicle. That is really a lot. If either of these problems were fixed on a recall, could they re-occur again. On this particular fuel re-call, I read that it had to be done again because the first recall fix was not done well. I do not have $1,400. to fix this. I am an [XXX] senior woman and am buying this car for my daughter. It seems to me that one a recall is made that it is a permanent thing until there is an assurance that it is fixed and won't happen again. It also seems to me that a vehicle that has that many recalls should not be allowed to be sold to the public. Can I hold the dealer who sold it to me accountable for not letting me know about the recalls or not letting me know the history of the vehicle? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11719080 | FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | | N/A miles
This was a recall earlier, twice, and it was supposedly fixed but the fuel vacuum line to the gas tank is leaking and giving off gasoline odors in the passenger area. Also another recall that was supposedly taken care of is an oil leak that is occuring often. The oil was changed only a month ago and already the oil has just about all leaked out. Both of these issues are fire hazards and the fuel leakage can can the operator or passengers to succomb to carbon minoxide. These were told to us by a Ford dealer who put the car on a diagnostic but they are saying that the recall is over and it will cost $1,400. for the fix. I bought this car, in June 2025 ;from a used car dealer. I am still paying on it. I never receive a car history of any kind from this dealer. . I had no idea that there were 18 recalls on this vehicle. That is really a lot. If either of these problems were fixed on a recall, could they re-occur again. On this particular fuel re-call, I read that it had to be done again because the first recall fix was not done well. I do not have $1,400. to fix this. I am an [XXX] senior woman and am buying this car for my daughter. It seems to me that one a recall is made that it is a permanent thing until there is an assurance that it is fixed and won't happen again. It also seems to me that a vehicle that has that many recalls should not be allowed to be sold to the public. Can I hold the dealer who sold it to me accountable for not letting me know about the recalls or not letting me know the history of the vehicle? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11718886 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | | 160,000 miles
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger seated in the front passenger's seat became aware of smoke inside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the engine cover had cracked and that there was an oil leak coming from the engine. The independent mechanic cleaned up the oil from underneath the engine and became aware that the wires and additional parts underneath the engine were burned. The contact was informed that there had been a fire underneath the engine. The contact was informed that the vehicle could have caught on fire. The contact referenced an unknown recall, but the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
#11718886 | ENGINE | | 160,000 miles
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger seated in the front passenger's seat became aware of smoke inside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the engine cover had cracked and that there was an oil leak coming from the engine. The independent mechanic cleaned up the oil from underneath the engine and became aware that the wires and additional parts underneath the engine were burned. The contact was informed that there had been a fire underneath the engine. The contact was informed that the vehicle could have caught on fire. The contact referenced an unknown recall, but the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
#11714377 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | | N/A miles
Im having the same issues as the current recall and have been having nonstop issues with my 2013 ford escape that dealerships/mechanics can't seem to figure out or won't figure out, but it says that mine isn't part of that recall, but I believe it should be. Now I have a newborn so these issues worry me even more.

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Safety Rating for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

The 2013 FORD ESCAPE received an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Test Category Rating
Overall Rating ★★★★ (4/5)
Frontal Crash ★★★★ (4/5)
Side Crash ★★★★★ (5/5)
Rollover ★★★★ (4/5)

Safety ratings are based on controlled crash tests conducted by NHTSA. A 5-star rating indicates the highest level of occupant protection.

Technical Service Bulletins for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

Ford Motor Company has issued 39 technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE. TSBs are notices sent by manufacturers to their dealers describing a known issue and the recommended repair procedure.

TSB 19-2287 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2013-2016 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a lack of cooling caused by the A/C inlet line breaking at the compressor. This may be due to the oil cooler coolant lines exerting excess pressure on the A/C inlet line. When replacing the A/C inlet line,...

TSB 19-2100 — POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER

Some 2013-2015 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or a transmission malfunction service now warning with only diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0741 and/or P1744 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to internal damage to the...

SSM 47858 — SUSPENSION:REAR

Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit damaged or delaminated bushing(s) on the rear suspension front lower arm (dog bone). If the rear suspension front lower arm requires replacement, an updated part is available through the parts catalog. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 204-02 for removal and installation.

SSM 46937 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2013-2016 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.6L EcoBoost engine may require the replacement of the A/C suction line. When replacing the suction line, verify that all of the compressor to engine block fasteners are installed and torqued properly. The compressor requires three fasteners - 2 bolts (W701331-S442) and one...

SSM 46327 — ENGINE

2013-2016 FIESTA, ESCAPE, TRANSIT CONNECT AND 2013 FUSION VEHICLES WITH A 1.6L GASOLINE TURBOCHARGED DIRECT INJECTION (GTDI) ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT AN ENGINE OIL LEVEL READING THAT IS UP TO 8 MM ABOVE THE MAXIMUM MARK ON THE ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK WHEN THE ENGINE IS FILLED WITH THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF...

SSM 46157 — VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

ALL 2013-2017 ESCAPE VEHICLES EXHIBIT A FRAYED/CUT SHORT APPEARANCE AT THE FRONT EDGE OF THE HEADLINER NEAR THE WINDSHIELD. THIS IS A NORMAL CHARACTERISTIC OF THE HEADLINER AND NO REPAIRS SHOULD BE ATTEMPTED.

16-0031 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

ISSUE Some 2013-2014 Focus ST, Fusion, Escape and MKZ vehicles equipped with a 2.0L gasoline turbocharged direct injection (GTDI) engine and built on 9/1/2012 and through 8/1/2013 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2096 (post catalyst fuel trim system too lean bank 1)...

16-0052 — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

1.6L GTDI - SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT - DTC P26B7 - BUILT ON OR BEFORE 2/13/2013 ISSUE Some 2013 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI) engine built on or before 2/13/2013 may exhibit a service engine soon lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P26B7 stored...

16-0052 — ENGINE

1.6L GTDI - SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT - DTC P26B7 - BUILT ON OR BEFORE 2/13/2013 ISSUE Some 2013 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI) engine built on or before 2/13/2013 may exhibit a service engine soon lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P26B7 stored...

TSB160033 — VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES

Wind or whistle noise from exterior mirror(s) at highway speed - buklt on or before 01/22/2016

Showing 10 of 39 technical service bulletins.

NHTSA Investigations for the 2013 FORD ESCAPE

NHTSA has opened 1 investigation into potential safety defects in the 2013 FORD ESCAPE.

Investigation PE18007 — ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Closed

Opened:

Loss of Motive Power

Other Model Years of the FORD ESCAPE

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Other FORD Models

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