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2016
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Used 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Ford Escape

EPA MPG: 25 mpg
RECALL ALERT:
There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
View of 2016 Ford Escape Rear 3/4, facing to the right view of 2016 Ford Escape
Side Profile, facing to left view of 2016 Ford Escape Front (full) view of 2016 Ford Escape
Rear (full) view of 2016 Ford Escape Drivers Dash view of 2016 Ford Escape
Full Dash view of 2016 Ford Escape Driver’s Side with Door Open, Front Seat Feature view of 2016 Ford Escape

Reliability

Overall Reliability

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

The 2016 Ford Escape has been recalled 4 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot
See all 2016 Potential Trouble Spots

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.

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)
Load more

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)
Load more

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)
Load more

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

Engine Cooling

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

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.

Noises/Leaks

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

2016 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

See How Other Brands Stack up
Reliability History
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
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.

Learn more about car Reliability.

Recalls
PROVIDED BY Provided by NHTSA
EQUIPMENT
Jan 15, 2026
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Read Recall Details
Summary:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
What should you do:
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 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 26S01. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026.
For more information:
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 26V011000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 116672
Hide Recall Details
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.
Read Recall Details
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. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on October 25, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Mustang owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 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
Hide Recall Details
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.
Read Recall Details
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
Hide Recall Details
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.
Read Recall Details
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
Hide Recall Details
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