2021 FORD Escape

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
๐ŸšจRequires Careful Review

This 2021 model shows critical reliability concerns, primarily driven by significant recall activity affecting fuel system, gasoline and electrical system.

Key Factor:multiple critical recalls

๐Ÿ“‹Why This Matters

Powertrain issues affect both daily reliability and long-term ownership costs. Unexpected stalling creates inconvenience at best and safety hazards at worst.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Given this model year's elevated concern level, budget for a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Focus Area:powertrain reliability
๐Ÿ“Š

Expert Analysis

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • โš ๏ธ
    Primary Risk Area:Warning
  • โš–๏ธ
    Vs Brand: Worse than avg (2.8)
    ๐Ÿ“
    Summary:

Safety & Reliability Score

0/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-136
Complaint Impact-5
Investigation Impact-25

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 FORD Escape

Model Year2021
MakeFORD
ModelEscape
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Scroll for more โ†’
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct21
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jul22
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov22
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
May24
ISSUEFirst Report
Aug24
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct24
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan25
RECALLRecall Issued
Jun25
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct25
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov25
RECALLRecall Issued

Consumer Complaint Analysis

โš ๏ธ

Most Reported Issue

22 complaints (22% of total)
โžก๏ธ

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data
โœ…

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 100 consumer complaints by severity level.

๐ŸŸ High
11(11%)
๐ŸŸกMedium
7(7%)
๐ŸŸขLow
82(82%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

โš™๏ธEngineering Insight

Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 20k-40k mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 48,344 miles.

๐Ÿ“Š Mileage data extracted from 28 of 100 complaints (28% coverage)
0-20k
5 reports (18%)
20k-40k
8 reports (29%)
40k-60k
4 reports (14%)
60k-80k
6 reports (21%)
80k-100k
3 reports (11%)
100k+
2 reports (7%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINESERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGENGINEPOWER TRAINEQUIPMENTBACK OVER PREVENTIONSTRUCTURE

Official Safety Recalls (17)

Campaign: 21V869000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Summary

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.

Consequence

A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 21V625000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE

Summary

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.

Consequence

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 21V922000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

Summary

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."

Consequence

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.

Remedy

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 22V149000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Summary

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.

Consequence

A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 22V191000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 22V484000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 22V859000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 23V380000

ENGINE

Summary

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.

Consequence

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. Vehicles previously repaired under 22V-484 will need to have the new remedy completed.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 24V330000

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 24V852000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Summary

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."

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 24V954000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM)

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V165000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V345000

ENGINE

Summary

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.

Consequence

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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V442000

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, 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.

Consequence

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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V467000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Summary

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.

Consequence

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. and replace the high pressure fuel rail assembly and the fuel injector ,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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V685000

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

Summary

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.

Consequence

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. 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 February 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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V829000

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

Summary

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.

Consequence

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. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed January 15, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. 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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

NHTSA Investigations

5 investigations

Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2021 Escape.

INV-2021-1000๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Escape performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 7,440
INV-2021-1001๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Escape performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 26,816
INV-2021-1002๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Escape performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 37,800
INV-2021-1003๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Escape performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 13,948
INV-2021-1004๐ŸŸข Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Escape performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 34,122

Consumer Complaints

100 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Escape.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning22%
Noise15%
Acceleration Issues11%
Leak10%
Fire8%
Check Engine Light5%
Hesitate5%
Engine/Powertrain๐Ÿ”ต Low
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received a manufacturer recall in August 2025 for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact had been calling the local dealer for updates on when parts would be available for the recall repair and was informed that there were no updates available from the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Other๐Ÿ”ต Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The shade on the moonroof came off track and would hang down obscuring rear view from mirror. Vehicle taken to Ford dealer for repair. After $1600 repair, three days later the shade would not close completely and returned to Ford dealer. Still waiting on repair.

Engine/Powertrain๐Ÿ”ต Low
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE,PARKING BRAKE

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 to 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light and the charging system service light were illuminated. The message "Vehicle Turning Off to Save Powerโ€ was displayed. In addition, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine while the vehicle was slowing down. The contact stated that the parking brake push button failed to function as intended. The contact was unable to coast to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to Auto Zone, where the battery was checked, and the battery passed the test. The tow truck driver had difficulty attempting to tow the vehicle. The vehicle failed to restart, and the auto brake turned on independently. After a while, the vehicle was towed to the contact's mother's residence. The vehicle was later towed to the dealer. The vehicle remained at the dealer pending the results of the diagnostic test. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue; however, no assistance was offered. The vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The contact was the second owner of the vehicle and had not received the recall notification. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.

Steering/Suspension๐Ÿ”ต Low
SUSPENSION

My vehicle only has 36,000 miles on it and I just had to spend $789 to have the rear shocks replaced!! I also purchased the extended warranty plan and this repair wasn't covered. Very disappointing especially with such low mileage.

Other๐Ÿ”ต Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

A plastic trim piece in the sunroof fell onto the shade. when the shade was opened it caused the shade to be disconnected from the open/close mechanism and roll back onto its spring loaded roller. the dealer quoted $1800 to fix it. not cover by ford or endurance warranty

Engine/Powertrain๐Ÿ”ต Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

This vehicle! It eats so much gas. Something is wrong. It makes a weird noise and puts itself into modes of sports, ice/snow, eco, slippery all by itself while I am driving. My RPMs will change and car makes a different sound and it is in a different driving mode without being put in it by me. It puts itself in auto mode and shuts off at red lights and starts back up when I put on the gas and this is not a hybrid.

Other๐Ÿ”ต Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My Ford Escape has an open recall on the fuel injectors. I took my car in once because there was a smell of fumes when using my a/c. When I mentioned the fuel injectors to the dealership, they said they would look at it. The dealership said they couldn't get the smell, but once they popped the hood, they could smell the gas. They fixed them then. Now there is a recall on the recall on the fuel injectors. My car has the smell of fumes again. I think the fumes are making me sick, I can't even use my a/c or heater some days. I can't be driving around with the fumes for my sake or my 2-year old daughter. It can't be safe for her to be in my car.

Brakes๐Ÿ”ต Low
SERVICE BRAKES

When putting the car in reverse the brakes make an awful Screaming noise. It sounds like they are not releasing. Then when you go in drive and want to stop it doesn't want to. It is not all the time but more so then not.

Other๐Ÿ”ต Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The Sunroof Shade curtain will not roll away when I try to open the roof shade. It crumbles up at the back or just doesn't roll up with the track. I have read several online Ford forums and a lot of people have been complaining about this issue. Could someone please look into this and see if this is a manufacturing problem, thank you.

Engine/Powertrainโš ๏ธ High
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

2021 Ford Escape. In January 2025 the turbo system failed and was replaced by a Ford dealer for about $5,903.85. Around five months later the transmission required repairs for a valve body issue, totaling roughly $3,000 in August. Two months after that repair, Firestone advised that the entire transmission now needs replacement. Each time the problem appeared, the vehicle showed violent slippage while upshifting and downshifting. When coming to a stop, the car would shake violently, slip forward several inches while my foot was still on the brake, and sometimes hesitate or lose power. Recently the vehicle will stop responding to acceleration, then suddenly surge forward without warning. These repeated transmission failures have created serious safety risks and appear consistent with ongoing problems involving the Ford 8F35 transmission used in the 2021 Escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2021 FORD Escape?

Yes, the 2021 FORD Escape has 17 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER.

Is the 2021 FORD Escape safe to drive?

The 2021 FORD Escape has 17 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2021 FORD Escape has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local FORD dealer.

๐Ÿ“ŠYear-over-Year Context

โžก๏ธStable Pattern

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.

๐ŸŽฏRisk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Fuel system, gasoline

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

โœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm fuel system, gasoline recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

๐Ÿ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all fuel system, gasoline recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:21V62500022V85900025V16500025V467000
2

Electrical system

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

โœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm electrical system recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

๐Ÿ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all electrical system recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:21V86900022V14900024V954000
3

Engine and engine cooling

Issue: presents fire risk under certain conditions

โœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm engine and engine cooling recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

๐Ÿ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all engine and engine cooling recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:22V19100022V484000
๐Ÿ’กVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your FORD dealer to verify recall completion status.

๐ŸงญWhat This Means for You

This information is especially relevant for drivers who rely on stop-and-go traffic or frequently use auto start-stop systems.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

๐Ÿ”‘

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 17 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your FORD dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediatelyโ€”recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
๐Ÿ›’

If You're Buying Used

  • Request full service history and documentation of all recall completions.
  • Consider whether adjacent model years (2020 or 2022) show better safety metrics.
  • Budget for thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on known problem areas.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.