Recalls · problems · safety

2021 Ford Escape: recalls and problems

21 recalls and 376 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is structure.

21recalls
376complaints
10crashes reported
9fires reported
6injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Structure95 · 25%
  • Unknown Or Other61 · 16%
  • Engine53 · 14%
  • Power Train49 · 13%
  • Fuel System (Gasoline)44 · 12%
  • Electrical System42 · 11%
  • Service Brakes42 · 11%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System30 · 8%
  • Visibility16 · 4%
  • Back Over Prevention11 · 3%

What owners report

Power Train,Engine

Description of defect & safety risk: complete structural failure and collapse of the entire 3-part powertrain mounting system (right engine mount, left automatic transmission mount and rear lower engine torque strut mount). the severe defect was discovered at a mere 27,000 original miles by a certified independent technician fount the broken motor mounts during inspection, and i confirmed experiencing excessive, vi

Visibility/Wiper

The front windshield wiper motor in my vehicle may become non-functional or operate sporadically, according to the recall notification dated march 3, 2026. presently, necessary replacement components are not in stock. since the windshield wiper system is essential for maintaining driver visibility during rain and challenging weather conditions, this safety-critical component warrants immediate attention. the recall s

Visibility

The contact owns a 2021 ford escape. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 26v117000 (visibility); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. the contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. the contact stated that the front windshield wipers failed to operate properly. the dealer was made aware of the failure but conf

Fuel/Propulsion System

My vehicle has experienced repeated transmission failures requiring major repairs. during diagnosis, the dealership reported excessive transmission material and missing friction material inside the transmission for second time. this is now the second transmission repair on the vehicle. before repair, the vehicle would unexpectedly lunge forward and accelerate super-fast. the sudden fast acceleration and loss of vehic

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2021 Ford Escape SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2021 Ford Escape SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering ESCAPE, ESCAPE HEV, ESCAPE PHEV, ESCAPE HYBRID. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.