Known ford issue apparently according to SSM 52219 document. 1.5L engine on 2023 and 2024 escape have known overheating issue.

Awaiting dealership follow up for service appointment. Happened with under 4000 miles and I've had this car less than two days at the time it happened. Seems to be only under load but I did some test drives and the cylinder head temp goes insanely high under load often going past 300 degrees F which could warp the head. Most annoying thing is that this car passed fords gold CPO checklist which is obviously inadequate.

I hope they fix but I would NOT suggest buying a ford escape without bringing your code scanner and checking for presence of P1285 code. I bought this car because it was built in Kentucky but the engine is made in Mexico!

Update from Jan 27, 2026: Was "fixed" under SSM 52219. Dealer on service receipt said coolant was within 10 degrees of cylinder head temp. When climbing up hills or acceleration cylinder head temp still goes above 250 degrees regularly albeit not for long stints of time. During this maintenance I was loaned a 2023 bronco sport also with a 1.5L engine and going up a steep hill in Santa Cruz, CA area highway 1 the cylinder head temp was 248F and would briefly touch 250F. It would never go above 250-260 like this escape up hills. I am thinking there may still be an issue but they did replace the entire cylinder head and related parts. Whether they replaced it with another defective cylinder head remains to be seen. P1285 code has yet to come back so that makes me feel better about it.

Update from Feb 5, 2026: Local dealership followed SSM 52219 and replaced the cylinder head and associated components. Since coolant debris was found also replaced coolant and water pump.