What are the most common problems with the 2019 Ford Escape?

**Engine and Powertrain Failures:** The most significant risk for the 2019 Escape is the high incidence of engine and powertrain issues, including coolant intrusion, which can lead to costly repairs.

How many recalls does the 2019 Ford Escape have?

The 2019 Ford Escape currently has 6 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2019 Ford Escape a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Engine and Powertrain Failures:** The most significant risk for the 2019 Escape is the high incidence of engine and powertrain issues, including coolant intrusion, which can lead to costly repairs. **Safety First:** The Escape boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, with 5 stars for overall, frontal, and side crash tests, offering peace of mind. **Fuel Economy:** Expect a combined EPA-estimated 23 MPG, making it a reasonably efficient option for daily commuting. **Recall Awareness:** Six recalls have been issued, with the shifter cable bushing recall being a critical safety item to verify has been addressed. **Inspection Priority:** A pre-purchase inspection must heavily focus on the engine, cooling system, and transmission due to documented widespread problems. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2019 Ford Escape?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2019 Ford Escape.

2019 Ford Escape Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Engine and Powertrain Failures: The most significant risk for the 2019 Escape is the high incidence of engine and powertrain issues, including coolant intrusion, which can lead to costly repairs.
Safety First: The Escape boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, with 5 stars for overall, frontal, and side crash tests, offering peace of mind.
Fuel Economy: Expect a combined EPA-estimated 23 MPG, making it a reasonably efficient option for daily commuting.
Recall Awareness: Six recalls have been issued, with the shifter cable bushing recall being a critical safety item to verify has been addressed.

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Overview

2019 Ford Escape

The 2019 Ford Escape offers a practical package with commendable safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score from NHTSA. Its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive delivers an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. However, used car shoppers should be aware of a substantial number of complaints, particularly concerning the engine and powertrain. With six recalls issued, including one for a critical shifter cable bushing, potential repair costs warrant consideration. The prevalence of early-life failures, especially coolant intrusion into the engine, is a significant ownership risk.

Critical Failure Risk

Coolant leaks into the engine cylinders, leading to engine damage, rough running, and potential engine failure. This is a critical and frequently reported issue.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$6,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns6

Service Bulletins52

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

607

Engine237

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Ford Escape Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 23

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 237 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 98 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

6 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2019 Ford Escape reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Ford Escape is 6.2/10. Reliability score is 6.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 607.

How practical is the 2019 Ford Escape for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Ford Escape?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Ford Escape is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Ford Escape?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $6,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Ford Escape?

Base MSRP is $28,000.

What engine is in the 2019 Ford Escape?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Ford Escape use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Escape, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Ford Escape?

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Ford Escape?

8 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Ford Escape?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Escape, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Ford Escape?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Escape, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Ford Escape use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Escape, drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Ford Escape?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2019 Ford Escape good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2019 Ford Escape, while a practical SUV, presents significant challenges for those looking to enhance performance through tuning.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Ford Escape?

Top complaint category: engine (237 reports, 39% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Ford Escape?

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.