2021 Ford Escape Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The door weld failure is the most significant structural concern, impacting door function and safety.
- Frequent complaints and recalls related to the fuel system and service brakes warrant close inspection.
- Despite a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the high volume of recalls and complaints points to below-average reliability.
- Early-life failures in powertrain and fuel systems suggest potential design or manufacturing defects.
2021 Ford Escape
The 2021 Ford Escape presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars from the NHTSA, its reliability record is a significant concern. The vehicle has a high number of recalls (47) and customer complaints (307), with particular attention needed for structural issues, specifically door weld failures. These can impact door operation and safety. Engine and brake system issues are also frequently reported, aligning with several critical recalls. Given these factors, potential buyers should be aware of the elevated risk of mechanical and structural problems, which could lead to higher potential repair costs.
Critical Failure Risk
Cracks or broken spot welds in the front door check arm attachment points can cause doors to fail to open, close, or stay latched, and can interfere with window operation. This is a significant structural concern.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,800-$2,500 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 dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy shoppers who prioritize safety ratings and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and potentially higher maintenance costs.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those on a tight budget for unexpected repairs.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Ford Escape Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Ford Escape.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. Structure & Body
Most reportedUsage: 57 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 38 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Multi-Point Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Ford Escape reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Ford Escape is 5.4/10. Reliability score is 5.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 47. Owner complaints: 307.
How practical is the 2021 Ford Escape for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Ford Escape?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Ford Escape is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Ford Escape?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check - Multi-Point Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,415. Repair prediction highlight: Door Check Arm Welds (typical at 10,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,800 • Max: $2,500).
What engine is in the 2021 Ford Escape?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2021 Ford Escape use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Escape, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Ford Escape?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Ford Escape?
13 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Ford Escape?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Escape, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Ford Escape?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Escape, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Ford Escape use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Escape, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Ford Escape?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Ford Escape good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Ford Escape, while a practical SUV, offers little in the way of performance tuning. Its 2.
What are the most common structure:body problems on the 2021 Ford Escape?
Top complaint category: structure:body (57 reports, 18.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Ford Escape?
This model year has 47 official safety campaigns listed.