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2021 Ford Escape problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2021 Ford Escape has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 21safety recalls
- 381owner complaints
- 10crash reports
- 9fire reports
- 9%fail the UK MOT
381 complaints, against an average of 1,096 for the other 14 Ford Escape model years.
Every Ford Escape model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2021 Ford Escape?
The components named most often in the 381 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2021 Ford Escape owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 381 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why does my 2021 Ford Escape stall, lose power or shut off while driving?18 owners · 4.7% · Recall 24V330000
- Why does my 2021 Ford Escape idle rough, misfire or hesitate?15 owners · 3.9%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Ford Escape?13 owners · 3.4%
- Why does my 2021 Ford Escape transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?12 owners · 3.1%
Has the 2021 Ford Escape been recalled?
21 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
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: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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 November 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.
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: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
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: A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
Electrical System: Propulsion System: Traction Battery Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid 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: 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.
Fix: Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM), free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC4. Vehicles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V954 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 18, 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: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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 December 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.
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: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
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: 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.
Fix: 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.
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: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
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: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
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: 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.
Fix: 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.
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: 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.
Fix: 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.
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: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
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: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
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: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
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: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
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: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Electrical System: Propulsion System: Traction Battery Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Corsair and 2021-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.5L Hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.
Risk: A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S48.
Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 2, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S10.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components: Disc: Caliper Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles. The rear brake linings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can affect braking performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk: During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31.
Electrical System: Propulsion System: Traction Battery Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 Escape vehicle equipped with a 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.
Risk: A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: A dealer will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. The owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S48.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery: Fuel Pump: Control/Drive Module Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result in an engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 14, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S38.
Is the 2021 Ford Escape recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSATransit Courier: Diesel DV-Neo Engine Coolant Pump Update
Risk: Affected vehicles may have been repaired using a coolant pump with a potential issue. This issue may lead to incorrect engine timing resulting in an engine failure causing a sudden loss of power without prior warning. The engine cannot be restarted.
Fix: Check and replace the water pump and timing belt if necessary.
UK DVSAMulti Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software Update
Risk: Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.
Fix: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.
UK DVSA25SC4 Kuga - Do not charge high voltage battery to levels above 80%
Risk: On affected vehicles the high voltage battery may have some cells that could potentially develop a short circuit leading to a Stop Safely Now message and possible loss of motive power or battery thermal venting.
Fix: Update the vehicle's Battery Energy Control Module software.
UK DVSACrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update
Risk: On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Fix: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
UK DVSA25S54 Kuga S-Max and Galaxy - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update
Risk: Certain Kuga S-Max and Galaxy vehicles equipped with a 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine may not have the remedy for Safety Recall 23S27 installed correctly but were recorded as having received the repair successfully. Because the correct software update may not have been installed on these vehicles the underlying condition specified in Safety Recall 23S27 potential under hood fire may still exist.
Fix: Dealers are to update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software.
UK DVSA25S21 Kuga - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update
Risk: On affected vehicles the remedy software for a previous recall which was needed to mitigate a potential fire risk may not have been installed correctly.
Fix: Update the Power Control Module software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the software has been installed correctly.
UK DVSA25S16 Kuga PHEV - Powertrain Control Module Software Update
Risk: On affected vehicles software from a previous recall may not have been installed correctly. Vehicles may have Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software that can result in a forced neutral condition while driving.
Fix: Update and verify the software.
UK DVSAX-Car Powertain Control Module (PCM) Software Update
Risk: Affected vehicles may develop a crack in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
Fix: Update software to prevent a cracked DPF. Test and replace DPFs that are already cracked.
UK DVSAKuga 2.5L PHEV supercreep24S33 – Kuga 2.5L PHEV supercreep
Risk: On affected vehicles a recent update to the Power Control Module (PCM) software could result in the vehicle shifting into neutral and coasting to a stop. The subsequent limp home mode results in unintended acceleration or 'supercreep'.
Fix: Update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software
UK DVSA23S27 Kuga S-Max/Galaxy 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine: Engine Compartment Issue
Risk: Engine failure that may lead to a breach of the engine oil sump or engine block
Fix: Software update
UK DVSA23S57 Kuga - Steering gear top plug potentially loose
Risk: The steering gear could potentially develop excessive movement. Over time a wear condition may manifest in an audible noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning to the centre position. In rare circumstances if the issue of noise increased steering efforts and the steering wheel not returning to the centre position are not addressed the excessive movement in the steering gear may lead to the pinion shaft becoming disconnected from the steering rack.
Fix: Replace affected components.
UK DVSAIn the event of a fuel injector failing this will potentially cause a fuel leak.
Risk: In the event of a fuel injector failing this will potentially cause a fuel leak.
Fix: A drain tube will need to be installed to allow safe passage of the fuel away from hot surfaces in the event of a leak occurring. Also the dealer will perform a PCM software update that will reduce the engine power if a drop in fuel pressure is detected and a warning light will be illuminated to make the user aware.
UK DVSASome Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assembly
Risk: Some Kuga vehicles with a panoramic roof may have a fixed glass panel with poor adhesion to the roof frame assembly. As a result there is a possibility that the fixed glass panel could detach during driving causing a hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users.
Fix: Check the panoramic roof frame If an affected date is present the fixed glass roof panel will need to be removed to inspect the integrity of the adhesive. If the adhesive is found to be compromised a new roof frame assembly will need to be installed.
UK DVSALower seatbelt bolt may not be tightened to specification
Risk: The lower front seatbelt bolt may not be correctly tightened to specification.
Fix: Inspect and re-torque the front lower seatbelt bolts to specification
UK DVSAInternal fault with one of the battery arrays may cause overheating
Risk: A number of Kuga PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) have a High Voltage (HV) battery that may have an internal fault with one of the battery arrays causing overheating
Fix: A new HV battery must be installed
UK DVSAUnder certain operating conditions an oil and/or fuel vapour leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in an engine…Under certain operating conditions an oil and/or fuel vapour leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in an engine compartment or vehicle fire localized melting or smoke.
Risk: Under certain operating conditions an oil and/or fuel vapour leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in an engine compartment or vehicle fire localized melting or smoke.
Fix: Modification of the engine undertray and active grill assemblies.
UK DVSAThe right-hand engine oil seperator may have been damaged prior to engine assembly.
Risk: Certain vehicles could have an engine oil separator that may have been damaged prior to engine assembly.
Fix: Inspect the engine oil separator and if found to be damaged and/or leaking a replacement engine oil separator must be installed
UK DVSAA battery may have an incorrectly positioned/welded busbar in one of the battery arrays
Risk: A battery may have an incorrectly positioned/welded busbar in one of the battery arrays
Fix: Install a new High Voltage battery.
UK DVSAVehicles may have an issue with the current software that contols the funtionality of the ecall system
Risk: Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that controls the functionality of the eCall system.
Fix: Carry out a software update.
UK DVSAParticle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cells
Risk: Particle contamination can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage battery cells.
Fix: The HV battery pack will be replaced on affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe hv battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas
Risk: The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.
Fix: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only.
UK DVSAThe high voltage battery control charger module connector may be damaged
Risk: The High Voltage Battery Control Charger Module (BCCM) connector may be damaged
Fix: An inspection of the BCCM is required to confirm an undamaged connector. If a failed inspection occurs the vehicle must be reworked with a replacement BCCM and charge cable.
EU Safety GateThe diesel particulate filter (DPF) may be cracked on 2.0 l EcoBlue Diesel and 1.5 l EcoBlue vehicles.This could cause the vehicles to fail the legally required roadworthiness test, as exhaust emissions of soot may be above the authorised limit.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateAn internal short circuit may occur in the cells of the high-voltage battery which can lead to a fire.In addition, a loss of propulsion power may occur, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDue to a manufacturing defect, the internal battery separator can become damaged over time by repeated charging and discharging cycles of…Due to a manufacturing defect, the internal battery separator can become damaged over time by repeated charging and discharging cycles of the cells. This can cause the high voltage battery cells to develop an internal short circuit. This creates a risk of the vehicle catching fire. Moreover, the short circuit can cause a loss of propulsion power, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe cooling airflow is insufficient, causing the oil channel to be blocked.This leads the connecting rod bearing to seize and the connecting rod to tear off. This can deteriorate the combustion engine, resulting in a rupture in the engine oil tank or engine block, creating an oil tank leak. This increases the risk of fire under the bonnet.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Importer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA piston rod may rupture the engine block and cause an oil leakage.The leaking oil can stay trapped in the lower engine guard and cause a fire due to its proximity to the catalytic converter of the exhaust system.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe steering wheel may no longer return to the middle position due to a loosened pin in the steering box that can cause the pinion shaft…The steering wheel may no longer return to the middle position due to a loosened pin in the steering box that can cause the pinion shaft to come loose from the steering rack casing. This could lead to a loss of steering, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Importer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDamage to the roof frame coating and failure of the glass panel adhesive primer may cause the panoramic roof to become detached when the…Damage to the roof frame coating and failure of the glass panel adhesive primer may cause the panoramic roof to become detached when the vehicle is being driven, creating a risk of injuries.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 14/11/2022
EU Safety GateOil can leak onto or under the engine, increasing the risk of skidding for other road users, and/or fire in the engine compartment.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 17/06/2022
EU Safety GateDue to improper fitting, the seat belt retention function may not be effective, increasing the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA problem may occur with the current Telematic control unit (TCU) software, which could affect the functionality of the eCall system.As a result, emergency service may not be contacted in case of need.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateInternal or charging fault could cause the High Voltage (HV) battery pack to vent hot gas.As such gases have not been routed away from other components, they will cause them to exceed their designed working temperatures.Overheating of components such as the fuel tank and fuel lines will increase the risk of the vehicle catching fire. /
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 06/11/2020
EU Safety GateInternal or charging fault could cause the High Voltage (HV) battery pack to vent hot gas.As such gases have not been routed away from other components, they will cause them to exceed their designed working temperatures. Overheating of components such as the fuel tank and fuel lines will increase the risk of the vehicle catching fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 21/08/2020
EU Safety GatePhysical damage to the Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module A (SOBDM) and/or the SOBDM connector could allow water ingress to the…Physical damage to the Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module A (SOBDM) and/or the SOBDM connector could allow water ingress to the module which may cause an electrical short. A short in the SOBDM can potentially cause one or more battery cells to overheat, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 02/07/2020
How often does the 2021 Ford Escape fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2021, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2021 Ford Escape owners report?
12 of the 381 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the windshield wipers became inoperable. The contact stated that while driving, the RPM was fluctuating. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 26V117000 (Visibility); however, the parts were not yet available for the recall repairs. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact later called the dealer and was informed that parts were not…
The transmission stopped working while driving in a thunderstorm in the middle of a busy intersection. These created a dangerous safety situation which was luckily avoided by the driver. We had the care inspected and the transmission removed, rebuilt and re-installed by Nightingale Transmissions LLC in [XXX]. There were no warnings or symptoms with this car until the accelerator jumped in the middle of the intersection. The only warning was that two other Ford Escape's in the Kansas Municipal Utilities' fleet had to have transmission's repaired just a few weeks prior INFORMATION REDACTED…
The ABS system fails to engage If the vehicle is coming to a stop and there is even the slightest bump on the road. ABS disengages the brakes which follows with a rapid acceleration of the vehicle instead of slowing down. Issue occurs even If one of the rear tires feels a slight bump. This issue occurs even on dry and hot conditions unrelated to slippery conditions. I am worried in slippery conditions it gets worse.
within the first minute of engine start there is a high-voltage buzzing sound following with a minor smoke smell coming either from the engine bay or back of the car. You could hear this sound from outside, especially my neighbors witnessed the sound from the sidewalk. when it happens it suddenly loses power and control of the vehicle. I reported this issue to Ford helpdesk but they mentioned there was no recall for my VIN. It almost feels like it would electrocute someone.
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, violent vibrations inside the vehicle cabin radiating heavily through the chassis. Total failure of these primary structural supports creates an immediate under-hood hazard. Severe…
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 vehicle operation created a significant safety concern, especially in traffic, parking lots, and intersections. I was concerned that the vehicle could unexpectedly crash or fail to…
Windows sometimes don't roll up or down, driver side doors do not lock, vehicle doesn't properly accelerate/very slow to go like gas isn't reaching where it needs to go, the transmission area makes a clunking noise, and the back sensor seems to have fallen out and it constantly beeps as if I am going to hit something, the side mirrors sometimes tell me there is something next to me when nothing is around, dash warning lights go off randomly sometimes.
Engine will periodically and randomly stall and quit while driving. Mostly in city but it quit while driving on highway I-10 at 65 mph in one incident.
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that there was a misfire coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for another recall repair. The contact stated that the check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel. The…
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was serviced under Customer Satisfaction Program 23B-56; however, the replacement welding caused the front driver's side door to fail. Additionally, the contact stated that while attempting to enter the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start, and multiple warning lights illuminated. The vehicle required a jump-start to start. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the battery had failed and needed to be replaced. The battery was replaced, and the contact…
When I lock my car, whether from my phone, keys, or lock button inside car, the car will lock except the passenger side door which remains unlocked. So when the car is supposed to be locked and secured, anyone who wants can gain access in my car whenever they want. The car alarm will go off. But the door still opens. I believe this is a safety concern for my family and I while being in the vehicle and also a threat to valuables in my car. I haven’t had it looked at yet. But I want to report it.
NOV 20, 2025 Manufacturer Recall Number25SC4 NHTSA Recall Number25V789 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available Summary this has been 9 months and still no remedy. this doesnt seem timely.
2021 Ford Escape: questions owners ask
Is the 2021 Ford Escape reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 381 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Ford Escape; the most common categories were structure (95, 24.9%), engine (53, 13.9%), service brakes (52, 13.6%). There are 21 safety recalls. 10 complaints mention a crash, 9 mention a fire, 6 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ford Escape?
Across 381 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are structure (24.9% of complaints), engine (13.9% of complaints), service brakes (13.6% of complaints), power train (13.4% of complaints), fuel system (11.8% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2021 Ford Escape have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 21 recalls for the 2021 Ford Escape; the most recent (campaign 26V117000, 2026-03-03) concerns Visibility: Windshield Wiper/Washer: Motor. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Ford Escape stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
18 of the 381 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Ford Escape (4.7%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. 4 related recalls exist: campaign 24V330000 (power train: automatic transmission: control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)). The fix: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. One owner wrote: "Engine will periodically and randomly stall and quit while driving. Mostly in city but it quit while driving on highway I-10 at 65 mph in one incident." (NHTSA complaint 11764188, September 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Ford Escape idle rough, misfire or hesitate?
15 of the 381 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Ford Escape (3.9%) describe rough idling, misfires or hesitation when accelerating. One owner wrote: "This car is constantly sputtering and when you give it gas to take of, it sputters as if it is going to stall. This poses a safety concern when you are giving the car gas and it is not properly accelerating. I was almost hit several times now." (NHTSA complaint 11748977, July 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Ford Escape?
13 of the 381 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Ford Escape (3.4%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "This car is constantly sputtering and when you give it gas to take of, it sputters as if it is going to stall. This poses a safety concern when you are giving the car gas and it is not properly accelerating. I was almost hit several times now." (NHTSA complaint 11748977, July 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2021 Ford Escape transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?
12 of the 381 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Ford Escape (3.1%) describe harsh, jerky or delayed transmission shifting or shuddering. One owner wrote: "My car was at only 55,000 miles, there was a weird shuddering and my RPMs were very jumpy. It almost felt like my car was going to stall out. I took it in to the ford dealership and I had to get my Torque Converter replaced." (NHTSA complaint 11750142, July 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Escape
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2021 only; combines NHTSA's entries for ESCAPE, ESCAPE HEV, ESCAPE HYBRID and ESCAPE PHEV.