Diagsheet

Fourth generation

2020 Ford Escape

The most reported problem on the 2020 Ford Escape is infotainment, with 70 complaints, usually around 41,000 miles.

  • 1,602owner complaints
  • 23recalls
  • 20involved a crash
  • 43,000median miles at failure

Newest report Sep 28, 2026 · checked Oct 2, 2026

miles

2020 Ford Escape
Photo: Kevauto, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is your Escape doing?

Each one opens a sheet built from the owner reports of that problem on the 2020 model year.

Is the 2020 Ford Escape reliable?

The 2020 Ford Escape has 1,602 owner complaints on file with NHTSA, 6.9 times the median of 233 for 2020 SUVs on this site. Of the 12 Escape model years since 2014, it has the 4th most complaints. Complaint counts rise with sales as well as faults, so read what owners report below before deciding.

At a glance

Next to the 2019 and 2021
The 2020 stands out from the model years on either side. It draws 229 complaints for each year on the road, while the 2019 draws 74 and the 2021 58.
Top problem
Two problems run close. Infotainment has 70 complaints and door latch has 63, out of 1,602 in all. A quarter of the 26 owners who gave a mileage for infotainment saw it by about 4,000 miles, and half by about 41,000.
Crash, fire and injury reports
Only 37 of the 1,602 complaints (2%) report a crash, a fire or an injury, well under the 6% typical of vehicles on this site. Counted separately (one report can carry more than one), 20 reports mention a crash, 4 mention a fire and 28 people were hurt. The most crash reports, 10 of 20, fall under airbag.
Recalls behind the top problems
Infotainment and stalling each have a recall on the same system (20V-635, 22V-331 and 2 others; 22V-191, 22V-484 and 3 others). Door latch has none. A recall on the same system doesn't always cover the failure owners describe, so compare its summary with the complaints.
When owners filed
Filings peaked in 2023 at 570 and have dropped every year since, to 291 in 2025. So far in 2026, 204 more have come in.

When each problem shows up

Each bar covers the middle half of the mileages owners reported for that problem. A quarter saw it earlier, a quarter later. The tick is the median. Most reported: infotainment, screen or backup camera fails, 70 complaints.

0k25k50k75k100k125k150kyou
Every complaint with a mileage522 of 1,602
522 complaints state a mileage. The most, 83, fall between 30,000 and 40,000 miles; 1 are past 150,000.
Brakes grind, pulse or wear early42 reports3 crashesrecall
Driveshaft, axle or transfer case problems11 reportsrecall
Loses power when accelerating12 reportsrecall
Transmission fails or needs replacement20 reportsrecall

middle half of reports, median tick. The heavier grey bars have 75 or more reports.

Behind you

    Around your mileage

      Ahead of you

        How this compares

        2020 Ford Escape1,602
        Median 2020 model here (75 vehicles)219
        Median 2020 SUV here (42)233

        1,602 complaints is 7.3 times the median 2020 model on this site and 6.9 times the median 2020 SUV. Among the 11 Escape model years here it ranks 4th for complaints. Counts follow sales volume as much as reliability, so a truck that sells 700,000 a year draws more reports than a sedan that sells 200,000.

        Service bulletins for the 2020 Ford Escape

        Ford filed 271 bulletins and other notices with NHTSA that list the 2020 Ford Escape. 67 of them deal with a problem owners have reported on this car. Newest first.

        Federal rules make a manufacturer send NHTSA a copy of any notice about a defect that goes to more than one dealer or owner. Most of these are service bulletins, the repair instructions manufacturers send to dealers. NHTSA generally leaves safety recall bulletins out of this file, and recalls are listed separately.

        Infotainment, screen or backup camera fails 23 bulletins · 70 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 54720Apr 2, 2026

          Various 2020-2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC).

        • Service bulletinSSM 54313Oct 21, 2025

          Some 2020-2025 various Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC).

        21 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 54116Aug 7, 2025

          Various 2019-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a partially or fully black center display screen at start-up using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This does not affect rear camera operation.

        • Service bulletinSSM 52774Aug 2, 2024

          Some 2020-2024 Escape/Explorer, 2021-2024 F-150, 2022-2024 Maverick and 2024 Nautilus vehicles equipped with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain may exhibit a cable connection error screen from the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue ...

        • Service bulletin24B47Jul 23, 2024

          Certain 2018 - 2024 Model Year Various Vehicles Update SYNC Software In all the affected vehicles, due to an error in the SYNC software, you may experience SYNC system instability concerns and/or a failure to preserve certain settings across ignition cycles.

        • Service bulletinSSM 52722Jul 16, 2024

          Some 2019-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC3 may experience various FordPass/LincolnWay connectivity concerns including but not limited to: missing activation prompt (pop-up) on the vehicle's center display screen when attempting to activate ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 51923Sep 14, 2023

          Some 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2022 Corsair vehicles may exhibit a condition where the brake service mode is inoperative using the Workshop Manual (WSM) routine and/or Parking Brake Limited Function-Service Required message displayed in the instrumental panel ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 51653May 22, 2023

          2020-2023 Escape/Explorer, 2021-2023 F-150 and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain may exhibit a cable connection error screen from the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue Charger.

        • Service bulletinSSM 51254Dec 14, 2022

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair/F-53 Motorhome/F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis, 2021-2023 F-650/F-750/E-Series, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles may exhibit an intermittent no crank/no start condition and/or an intermittent blank instrument panel cluster ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 51131Oct 13, 2022

          Some 2020-2022 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a telematic control unit (TCU) may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, and/or modem electronic serial number (ESN) could not be ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 50982Aug 1, 2022

          Some 2018-2022 Ford/Lincoln vehicles equipped with a wireless charging pad may exhibit one of the following if the customer is using a Magsafe iPhone (iPhone 12 or 13): slow charging, inoperative, notification that the phone has been mispositioned on the ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 50771May 11, 2022

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, 2022 Maverick vehicles may exhibit any of the following driver assistance warning messages displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC): Pre-collision Assist Not Available, Cruise Control Not ...

        Plus 11 older ones not listed here.

        Doors, latches or locks fail 8 bulletins · 63 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 51908Sep 7, 2023

          Some 2020-2023 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a door ajar warning indicator or higher than expected efforts to fully close doors. Verify the hood/liftgate are not open. Confirm all doors are fully closed and latches are fully engaged.

        • Service bulletinTSB 23-2156May 19, 2023

          Some 2020-2023 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles may exhibit a condition where the door(s) do not open using the exterior door handle(s).

        6 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 51318Jan 26, 2023

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a door ajar warning lamp or higher than expected efforts to fully close doors. Verify the hood/liftgate are not open. Confirm all doors are fully closed and latches are fully engaged.

        • Service bulletinTSB 22-2246Jun 28, 2022

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and 2022 Maverick vehicles may exhibit a condition where the door(s) do not open using the exterior door handle(s).

        • Service bulletinSSM 50356Dec 16, 2021

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a door ajar warning indicator or higher than expected efforts to fully close doors. Verify the hood/liftgate are not open. Confirm all doors are fully closed and latches are fully engaged.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50165Oct 1, 2021

          Some 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a door ajar warning indicator or higher than expected efforts to fully close doors. Verify the hood/liftgate are not open. Confirm all doors are fully closed and latches are fully engaged.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50130Sep 20, 2021

          Some 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a door ajar warning indicator or higher than expected efforts to fully close doors.

        • Service bulletin20B56Jan 29, 2021

          There is expected to be a low number of vehicles found with a concern door handle. In some of the affected vehicles, the interior door handle may have excessive material present on the door handle cavity.

        Engine stalls or loses power while driving 1 bulletin · 61 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 48791May 4, 2020

          Some 2020 Escape/Aviator/Explorer Hybrid vehicles and 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit slow fuel fill, premature shut off, and/or spit back during refueling.

        Check engine light or misfire 23 bulletins · 58 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 54615Feb 28, 2026

          Some 2020-2026 Escape and 2021-2026 Corsair vehicles equipped with a 2.5L engine may exhibit a fuel door that won't open with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P04CA stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).

        • Service bulletinSSM 54366Nov 12, 2025

          Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025.

        21 more on this problem
        • Service bulletin23N06 S1Sep 3, 2024

          In some of the affected vehicles, after safety recall 23S27 has been performed, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate and store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P1061 and/or P032F.

        • Service bulletinTSB 23-2259Aug 16, 2023

          Some 2020-2022 Escape built and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles, built on or before 28-Sep-2022, equipped with a 1.5L Ecoboost engine and a 8F35 transmission may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0420 ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 50548Mar 1, 2022

          Some 2022 Maverick and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.5L full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain may exhibit an idle surge and/or rough idle with high temperature in the catalytic convertor and sulfur odor in the cab.

        • Service bulletin21B68-S1Feb 23, 2022

          In some of the affected vehicles, it may be possible that the TMAP (Temperature Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor may ice over while driving in cold temperatures for extended periods of time.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50485Feb 11, 2022

          Some 2019-2022 Edge/Nautilus, 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost or 2.3L EcoBoost may exhibit a lack of power with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 50382Jan 7, 2022

          Some 2020-2021 Escape and 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L EcoBoost engines may experience an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P3402. This may be due to the cylinder 1 deactivation solenoid.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50245Oct 29, 2021

          Some 2020-2021 Escape vehicles may exhibit various symptoms due to a loss of voltage reference (VREF) from the 14290 harness above the steering shaft u-joint.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50171Oct 4, 2021

          Some 2019-2021 Edge/Nautilus/Ranger, 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair/Explorer, and 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost may exhibit a lack of power with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 50151Sep 24, 2021

          Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator Hybrids, 2021 Corsair Hybrid, 2021 F-150 PowerBoost, and 2021 Mustang Mach-E vehicles may exhibit a no-start with a Stop Safely Now warning message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC).

        • Service bulletinSSM 50116Sep 14, 2021

          Some 2020-2021 Escape vehicles may exhibit a loss of voltage reference (VREF) or runs rough, blow fuse 44 and may or may not set DTC's P06A7,P0840,P0842,P0845,P0847,P2122,P2127,P0522,P008A,P06A6,P2196,P0192, ...

        Plus 11 older ones not listed here.

        Transmission shudders, slips or shifts hard 6 bulletins · 55 complaints

        • Service bulletinTSB 26-2328Jul 15, 2026

          Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following conditions:  Shudder chatter condition, most noticeable at low speeds turning  No relevant diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) present This may be due to internal rear ...

        • Service bulletinSSM 54939Jun 16, 2026

          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) ...

        4 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 51823Aug 1, 2023

          Some 2019-2023 Edge/Nautilus, 2020-2023 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2023 Bronco Sport, 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with all wheel drive (AWD) may exhibit chatter/shudder during low speed turning events.

        • Service bulletinSSM 49571Feb 15, 2021

          Some 2019-2021 Edge/Nautilus, 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair, 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with all wheel drive (AWD) may exhibit chatter/shudder during low speed turning events due to fluid contamination.

        • Service bulletinTSB 21-2018Jan 26, 2021

          Some 2020 Escape front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine and an 8F24 transmission built on 09-Jun-2020 and through 17-Dec-2020 may exhibit a harsh engagement into DRIVE and/or harsh 6-5 or 4-3 downshifts.

        • Service bulletinTSB 20-2366Oct 20, 2020

          Some 2020 Escape front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine and an 8F24 transmission built on 09-Jun-2020 and through 02-Oct-2020 may exhibit a harsh engagement into DRIVE and/or harsh 6-5 or 4-3 downshifts.

        Brakes grind, pulse or wear early 2 bulletins · 42 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 51261Dec 16, 2022

          Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.

        • Service bulletinSSM 50064Aug 25, 2021

          Some 2013-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.

        Wheel bearing, tires or wheels 1 bulletin · 28 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 49193Sep 22, 2020

          Some 2020 Escape vehicles with S level trim equipped with keyed ignition built on 22-Jul-2020 and through 5-Aug-2020, may exhibit an illuminated TPMS lamp in the instrument panel cluster (IPC).

        Adaptive cruise or lane keeping misbehaves 3 bulletins · 24 complaints

        • Service bulletinSSM 51996Oct 17, 2023

          Some 2020-2023 Escape/Corsair vehicles may exhibit a condition where the vehicle drifts left and right within the vehicle's lane while the lane keeping assist is active.

        • Service bulletinSSM 51437Mar 14, 2023

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, 2022 Maverick vehicles built on or before 23-Mar-2022 may exhibit driver assistance warning messages displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC): Pre-collision Assist Not Available, Cruise Control Not ...

        1 more on this problem
        • Service bulletinSSM 51285Jan 6, 2023

          Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, 2022 Maverick vehicles may exhibit any of the following driver assistance warning messages displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC): Pre-collision Assist Not Available, Cruise Control Not ...

        Complaints filed by year

        Complaints by the year NHTSA received them: 2019: 1, 2020: 40, 2021: 42, 2022: 55, 2023: 570, 2024: 399, 2025: 291, 2026: 2041'1940'2042'2155'22570'23399'24291'25204'26

        570 complaints came in 2023, 10.4 times the year before. Owners file in waves when a problem gets press or an investigation, so a spike measures attention as much as failures.

        NHTSA investigations

        PE23-013opened Jul 7, 2023
        Structure · model years 2020 to 2022

        Failed door check arm attachment point. Closed jan 24, 2024.

        NHTSA summary
        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 which requiring medical attention. ODI conducted a consumer survey which yielded an additional 44 injuries (although the VOQs did not indicate any injury), none of which requiring medical attention. All these injuries were bumps/bruises from the door closing on occupants’ arms and legs while entering and exiting the vehicle. The function of the check arm system is to provide hold-open assist at specific angles and to assist with door closing energy. It does not provide vertical support of the door and is independent of the latching mechanism. This failure is progressive and detectable by vehicle occupants. Consumers commonly report hearing a popping or snapping noise when opening and closing the door. This noise is caused by some of the welds between the bracket and door structure failing
        RQ21-002opened Aug 3, 2021
        Backup camera · model years 2020

        Rearview camera fmvss 111 noncompliance. Open.

        NHTSA summary
        On September 23, 2020, Ford Motor Company (Ford) filed a noncompliance recall report under 49 CFR Part 573 (NHTSA Recall No. 20V-575), recalling 620,246 Model Year (MY) 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles for a noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111, Rear Visibility. Ford's recall described the noncompliance as insufficient electrical conductivity within the printed circuit board (PCB) internal to the camera leading to intermittent rearview camera operation. The supplier of the cameras was Magna Electronics.According to Ford's chronology in the Part 573, during the period February-April 2020, Ford identified and monitored warranty claims pertaining to intermittent or inoperative rearview cameras. Ford reviewed supplier product changes, focusing on changes introduced by the supplier in the October-November 2019 time frame. The Part 573 stated that the issue was brought to Ford's Critical Concerns Review Group (CCRG) for review on May 12, 2020.On July 7, 2020, NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Testing Center (VRTC) informed the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of a trend of MY 2020 Escape vehicles with rearview camera malfunctions. ODI contacted Ford the next day, providing five Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging inoperative rearview cameras. On July 15, 2020, Ford met with NHTSA to discuss the rearview camera issue. In a su

        Recalls that include the 2020 Ford Escape

        Whether your car is included depends on its VIN. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

        26V-117Mar 3, 2026
        Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

        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 and remedy
        Risk: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: 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 October 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.
        26V-123Mar 3, 2026
        Back Over Prevention:Software

        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 and remedy
        Risk: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: 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.
        25V-829Dec 1, 2025
        Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments

        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 and remedy
        Risk: A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: 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.
        25V-685Oct 10, 2025
        Equipment:Electrical:Engine Block Heater

        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 and remedy
        Risk: 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. 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 September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
        25V-693Oct 10, 2025
        Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Pads

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape vehicles. The rear brake pads may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can reduce brake function in the event of a brake booster malfunction. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Reduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 13, 2025. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V922.
        25V-467Jul 11, 2025
        Fuel System, Gasoline:Fuel Injection System

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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's number for this recall is 25S76. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.
        25V-442Jun 27, 2025
        Back Over Prevention:Software

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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.
        25V-345May 23, 2025
        Engine

        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 and remedy
        Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
        Remedy: 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.
        25V-165Mar 14, 2025
        Fuel System, Gasoline:Fuel Injection System

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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.
        24V-954Dec 20, 2024
        Electrical System:Propulsion System:Traction Battery:Management System/Energy Control Module (Bms/Becm)

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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.
        24V-852Nov 8, 2024
        Equipment:Other:Labels

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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.
        24V-330May 10, 2024
        Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)

        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 and remedy
        Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: 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.
        23V-380May 26, 2023
        Engine

        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 and remedy
        Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
        Remedy: 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 notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S27. This recall expands and replaces recall number 22V-484. Vehicles previously repaired under 22V-484 will need to have the new remedy completed.
        22V-859Nov 18, 2022
        Fuel System, Gasoline:Fuel Injection System

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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 previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.
        22V-484Jul 7, 2022
        Engine And Engine Cooling

        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 and remedy
        Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
        Remedy: 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.
        22V-331May 13, 2022
        Electrical System:Propulsion System:Traction Battery

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L hybrid powertrains. Insufficient welds inside the high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a loss of drive power.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on July 12, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S33.
        22V-191Mar 25, 2022
        Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Oil/Lubrication

        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 and remedy
        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.
        Remedy: 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.
        21V-011Jan 15, 2021
        Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Edge, 2020 Lincoln Nautilus and Ford Escape and 2021 Lincoln Corsair and Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. An inadequate amount of lubricant in the rear drive unit may cause seizure of the rear drive axle.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the minimum lubricant fill level will be replaced, free of charge. This recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S02.
        20V-635Oct 15, 2020
        Electrical System:Body Control Module/Bcm

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with a key-start ignition system. The Body Control Module (BCM) intermittently may not pick up the signal from the rear Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors or the Remote Key Fob. In the event of a low tire pressure condition, the TPMS system may not provide an adequate warning.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Low tire pressure may lead to poor vehicle handling and a possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of crash.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the BCM, free of charge. Owners are advised that two key fobs are required for the repair to be completed. The recall began December 1, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S59.
        20V-575Sep 23, 2020
        Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
        20V-550Sep 10, 2020
        Power Train:Automatic Transmission

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Edge, Transit Connect and Lincoln MKX and 2020 Escape and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing or loose bolts.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: Missing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may progress to a loss of transmission function. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the start/stop accumulator, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S49.
        20V-415Jul 17, 2020
        Air Bags:Side/Window

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape and Transit vehicles. The affected vehicles may have an improperly crimped diffuser in the side curtain air bags which may result in the diffuser detaching from the inflator in the event of an air bag deployment.

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag modules, free of charge. An interim letter notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed August 3, 2020. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S35.
        19V-633Aug 28, 2019
        Seats:Front Assembly:Recliner

        Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."

        Risk and remedy
        Risk: A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
        Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.

        All 23 recalls on the 2020 Ford Escape, with the owner complaints on each recalled system

        Guide NHTSA has an open investigation on this car. What the investigation stages mean

        Questions

        What is the most common problem on the 2020 Ford Escape?

        Infotainment, with 70 of the 1,602 complaints. Owners who gave a mileage for it put the median at about 41,000 miles.

        At what mileage do 2020 Ford Escape problems start?

        Of the 522 complaints that give a mileage, a quarter came by about 28,000 miles and half by about 43,000.

        Is the 2020 Ford Escape better or worse than the 2019 and 2021?

        Counted per year on the road, the 2020 has more complaints than both the 2019 and the 2021: 229 a year against 74 and 58.

        How many 2020 Ford Escape complaints involve a crash, fire or injury?

        37 of them (2%). The typical vehicle on this site is at 6%.

        Is there a recall for infotainment on the 2020 Ford Escape?

        Yes, NHTSA lists 4 recalls on the same system: 20V-635, 22V-331, 24V-954 and 25V-685. Its summary says which failure it covers, and that isn't always the one owners describe.

        Other model years