Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Save products icon

Other Membership Benefits:

Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more

    Ford Escape

    EPA MPG: 25 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2016 Escape is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2016 Ford Escape has been recalled 3 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Ford Escape owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Exhaust leaks

    "Had an exhaust leak into the cabin 2 years ago and now have another one"

    Anonymous, (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    ""Exhaust came into the cabin when I put the heat on. Was not the exhaust. Replaced the catalytic converter, which was expensive ($2500), but it was not the problem. Turned out to be an oil leak.""

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Ford Escape SE Unsure)

    ""Started about 1 yr ago. Was not exhaust system. Expensive replacement of catalytic converter, which turned out not to be the problem. Finally, found that it was an oil leak and fumes came into the cabin when the heat was turned on. Spend total of 4K to identify and fix. Ended up getting a new car. Prior to this, loved the Escape. Had it for 9 years and 145K.""

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Other/unsure

    "Squirrel chewed wires on engine"

    Anonymous A., PA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    ""The idiot lights were going off, were fixed but auto lights are not auto anymore. I don't like the consul and there isn't room for a phone or wallet. The car is really very good except for those issues. this is a person choice.""

    Anonymous, WY (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "Air conditioner has stopped working last 2 summers. Recharge of freon worked last year. Recharge this year worked for a month but now doesn't. Can't find the leak."

    Anonymous, NJ (2016 Ford Escape S 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "A/C Compressor had to be replaced"

    Anonymous, MN (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "The a/c compressor no longer works."

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Ford Escape SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Blower (fan) motor

    "motor went bad and had to be replaced."

    Anonymous, VA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Condenser

    "Started in Fall of 2024 & I finally got it repaired on July24, 2025"

    Anonymous, MI (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    ""Transmission failed at 90K miles (which is early in my experience) while on FWY at speed. VERY expensive ($9K) to replace as determined by Ford dealer. The first replacement also failed before it left the dealer. Longish delay for another replacement, which also failed after 45 days under warranty, but another long delay to get the replacement. The dealer did make sure to have a more senior technician do the work this time. They also said that they have had significant issues with the CVT transmission on several Ford models, and that they had also had a run of problematic parts.""

    Anonymous, WA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "The linkage cable broke 9 months ago. The transmission and been shifting rough for about a year before that."

    Anonymous A., KY (2016 Ford Escape SE 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "Transmission had been fine but began chugging a bit then failed entirely over the course of 2 days. It took a long time to get it fixed, and there were 3 other Ford Escapes in the same shop waiting for transmission repairs. It was resolved but cost us just under $4,500."

    Anonymous, SC (2016 Ford Escape S Unsure)

    ""Trying to recall - engine would fail to power the car, think it was a clutch engagement problem, it took a couple of weeks to identify problem, obtain part, and make the repairs.""

    Anonymous, ON (2016 Ford Escape SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Antilock braking system (ABS)

    ""Had to replace ABS sensor rear left tire. ABS sensor failure disabled hill assist, 4wd &traction control on the suv. New part was faulty had to take vehicle back to dealer to replace again 2 days later""

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Parking brake

    "The parking brake cable broke in May 2024 and required installation of a complete new parking brake assembly"

    Anonymous, OH (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Rotors

    ""When brakes needed replacing from normal wear and tear, it was found the rotors were bad also""

    Anonymous, WI (2016 Ford Escape Titanium Unsure)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Turbo or supercharger

    "All maintenance and cool down periods observed yet eco-boost turbo waste gate failed at 70K miles"

    Anonymous, CT (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "Underboost caused warning light. Turbo replaced ($4K) to address it"

    Anonymous, VA (2016 Ford Escape SE 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    "Had to replace vapor purge valve"

    Anonymous, NH (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Other emissions/fuel system problem

    "Purge valve needed replacing. Also had turbo wastegate solenoid replaced."

    Anonymous, WI (2016 Ford Escape Titanium Unsure)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other minor transmission & clutch problem

    "Fluid changed repeatedly but still black. Mechanic informs me this is common and that the trans will be failing soon. (78K miles)"

    Anonymous, CT (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Slipping transmission

    ""Happened suddenly at 140000 miles making it impossible to drive. Towed to AAAMCO and transmission replaced, Now drives like new""

    Anonymous A., GA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Backup or other camera/sensors

    "Camera does not always come on when I put the car in reverse."

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Ford Escape SE Unsure)
    Display screen goes blank

    "Display screen that had odometer went blank."

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    CV joint

    "It broke"

    Anonymous, MN (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Stability control (ESC)

    ""The entire unit had to be replaced in the first year. We were never told what the problem was or if it was a common issue. It just stopped working. Moving forward to 2023, the computer that controls the traction control, ABS, and speedometer failed and Ford has discontinued making this part.""

    Anonymous, SC (2016 Ford Escape SE 1.6-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Rust

    "There is rust along all the seams. I have had several of the panels replaced, but trust continues to happen"

    Anonymous, NY (2016 Ford Escape SE 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Engine mounts

    ""One broken motor mount, replaced 3 just in case. Probably broke going over a curb at a construction site.""

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Ford Escape Titanium 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    12V battery

    ""New battery, but will not hold a charge if the car is not operated on a regular basis. Mechanics have not been able to figure out what the problem is.""

    Anonymous, MI (2016 Ford Escape S Unsure)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Wheel bearings

    "Not meant to be replaced...have had to replace passenger side front 2x."

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Ford Escape SE Unsure)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    2016 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
    00
    01*
    02
    03
    04
    05
    06
    07
    08*
    09
    10
    11
    12
    13*
    14
    15
    16
    17
    18
    19
    20*
    21
    22
    23
    24
    25
    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
    NA

    NA

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    Oct 13, 2025
    A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver¿¿¿s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 29, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated June 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA9. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 14, 2025.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V695000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1448655
    POWER TRAIN
    Jun 10, 2022
    A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.
    For more information:
    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.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 22V413000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2925968
    AIR BAGS
    Jun 26, 2017
    In the event of a crash, if the driver's knee air bag does not inflate as intended, the driver has an increased risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 Ford Escape vehicles. The driver's knee airbag modules installed in these vehicles were produced without the inflator gas generant material, and, as a result, the air bags may not inflate properly in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace driver's knee air bag, free of charge. The recall began on August 8, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C11.
    For more information:
    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.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 17V398000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3
    Check Vehicle for Unrepaired Recalls
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Change Vehicle