2014 Ford Escape Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine overheating and fire risk is the primary concern, necessitating careful inspection of the cooling system.
- Significant powertrain issues, including transmission hesitation and loss of power, are frequently reported.
- A high volume of recalls, particularly for door latches and airbags, indicates potential systemic quality control problems.
- The electrical system is another weak point, with complaints ranging from instrument cluster failures to keyless start malfunctions.
2014 Ford Escape
The 2014 Ford Escape presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it offers respectable fuel economy and a 4-star overall safety rating, its reliability record is a significant concern. With 23 recalls and over 2,500 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous issues reported. The most prevalent problems center around the engine, powertrain, and electrical system, with a notable risk of engine overheating and potential fires. Given the high number of recalls, potential repair costs associated with these widespread issues should be factored into ownership. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent reports of engine overheating, coolant leaks into cylinders, and potential fires, often linked to the 2.0L EcoBoost engine's cooling system or head gasket failures.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.
Full Recall History →Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy shoppers who prioritize a low purchase price over long-term reliability and are prepared for potential repair costs.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a dependable, worry-free daily driver.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2014 Ford Escape Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Ford Escape.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 688 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 440 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Multi-Point Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2014 Ford Escape reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Ford Escape is 3.4/10. Reliability score is 3.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 23. Owner complaints: 2,560.
How practical is the 2014 Ford Escape for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2014 Ford Escape?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Ford Escape is 5.7/10. Overall score is 5.7/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.3/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Ford Escape?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Multi-Point Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Cooling System (typical at 53,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2014 Ford Escape?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2014 Ford Escape use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Ford Escape, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Ford Escape?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Ford Escape?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2014 Ford Escape?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Ford Escape, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2014 Ford Escape use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Ford Escape, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Ford Escape?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2014 Ford Escape good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2014 Ford Escape, while a popular model, is plagued by numerous reliability issues, including engine problems, powertrain failures, and...
What are the most common engine problems on the 2014 Ford Escape?
Top complaint category: engine (688 reports, 26.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Ford Escape?
This model year has 23 official safety campaigns listed.