9.5

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
$710
Average Mileage:
83,600 miles
Total Complaints:
8 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. not sure (4 reports)
  2. i was told it is the steering knuckle (3 reports)
  3. replace steering column and sensor (1 reports)
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This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.

problem #8

Dec 012014

Escape XLS 4 cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 90,000 miles

I noticed an intermittent popping noise when turning mainly to the right. Had it checked out and was a failure with the lower knuckle and lower flange in steering column. Had to replace all components. I have never heard of this sort of part failing. Seems like a common problem.

- Crista K., Jasper, AL, US

problem #7

Oct 062014

Escape XLT V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 146,000 miles

This is an extremely dangerous problem that could cause a problem at any time. I have no choice but to get it fixed immediately.

- DeAnna V., Barling, AR, US

problem #6

Jul 212014

Escape

  • Automatic transmission
  • 80,000 miles

When I put the key in the ignition, it won't turn over...it's like it's not reading the key. The radio turns on with lights...so my new battery is fine. Also it happens in spurts, but when driving the steering wheel seizes up making it very difficult to turn.

- Tanis O., Edmonton, Alberta, canada

problem #5

Mar 192014

Escape 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 130,488 miles

IT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AND IT SHOULD BE RECALLED , AS THE 2011 EXPLORER HAS A RECALL ON THIS SAME ISSUE

Update from Apr 12, 2014: I talked to Ford Head Office, they said there was nothing they could do , so I called City Ford where I bought the vehicle. The manager there was great Dave, he understood my concerns and booked me a appointment the next morning. The mechanic there whom was very professional told my husband it was the steering knuckle and he has never seen one so worn out. they told us we were safe to drive for now and would fix it in a couple weeks for a reasonable price.

- Katrina D., Edmonton, Alberta, canada

problem #4

Nov 122012

Escape 3.2L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 100,050 miles

A sensor on the steering column went bad, with no warning and ruined the entire steering column that had to be replaced. When this happened you had very hard steering. There should have been some type of warning and this situation could have been averted and costly. I have seen other issues with the steering columns and nothing has been done to address this issue. This is the first time I have heard of anyone having to replace a steering column in a vehicle. This is the last time I will by a Ford.

- Debra D., Lenox, IA, US

problem #3

Oct 082011

Escape XLT 2.3L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 81,000 miles

This Escape has been a driving nightmare. It has been problem after problem. This problem is the failure of the steering shaft and joint. This is the second life threatening mechanical failure that this vehicle has caused me. I drive 55 miles each way to work and 95% of my commute is highway 70 mph. The failure of the steering shaft happened in a parking lot but all you can think is what could have happened if it went on the highway. It caused the car to be unable to steer. It all started with clunking which my husband thought was something with the suspension. We just got this vehicle back from the mechanic for the first life threatening failure of the transmission cooler which cost us almost $1000. All these parts that are going bad on these Escapes should not be happening to a car with under 100,000 miles I would say they shouldn't happened to cars with 200,000 miles. Ford will not do anything to fix the issue for this problem or the last one. They have absolutely no regard for human life and don't care if anyone dies as you will just become a number on a spreadsheet if you do get killed. SOMEONE NEEDS TO MAKE THIS COMPANY FIX THESE ITEMS THEY ARE GOING TO CAUSE NUMEROUS LIVES TO BE LOST ALL BECAUSE THEY ARE TOO CHEAP TO FIX THEIR FAULTY PRODUCT. IS THERE A LAWSUIT OUT THERE WE ALL CAN GET ON? THESE CARS ARE DEATH TRAPS AND WE NEED A LAWYER TO GET THEM TO PAY!

- dnat, Cairo, NY, US

problem #2

Dec 292007

Escape XLT 4.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 250 miles

The steering is off to the left. It needed an adjustment. Problem was repaired initially then reoccued later at about 20,000 miles

- Liz N., Ballston Spa, NY, US

problem #1

Sep 162009

Escape XLT 3.0L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 41,000 miles

Went to ford dealer with clunking/rattling sound coming from near left front tire,accompanied by clicking sound when the steering wheel was turned (engine on as well as engine off) thought it was some kind of suspension problem. turns out that the lower

steering connector, ie the lower universal joint in the steering had worn out and was coming apart. Dealer said not a warranty problem and still waiting for Ford to respond to

my second call on this.

- Don N., Kailua, HI, US