2016 Ford Escape engine problems

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

1. Filed Oct 7, 2026173,000 miTNEngineOther / Unknown

   The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving, the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot(H). While inspecting the vehicle, the contact discovered that the coolant level was low. The contact added coolant to the coolant reservoir; however, the failure returned within three days, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where visible leaks were found. The failure persisted,…

   NHTSA complaint #11769610 · source
2. Filed Oct 3, 2026KSEngine

   Vehicle check engine light appeared on screen. Appeared that coolant hose popped off. Dealer determined that system had multiple leaks. Replaced thermostat housing, coolant crossover and heater core hoses, replaced degas bottle hose.

   NHTSA complaint #11768765 · source
3. Filed Sep 9, 2026MIElectrical SystemEngineTransmission & Drivetrain

   On July 7, 2026, at approximately 113,080 miles, my 2016 Ford Escape displayed a “Transmission Fault – Service Now” warning. The exact failed component is currently UNKNOWN, but the issue appears to involve the transmission/powertrain and possibly an electrical fault. While driving, I experienced abnormal symptoms including a rotational/squeaking noise from the front-right area and an air-leak/pressure-type noise from the right side. The pressure-type noise could also be…

   NHTSA complaint #11763197 · source
4. Filed Sep 9, 2026TXEngine

   Bought car in 2023, one year later engine failure due to overheating from head gasket issue widespread with this vehicle. Replaced engine, and two years later facing identical issue with another engine failure. Unidentifiable coolant leak led to low oil pressure and car shaking on the highway. Will require yet another engine replacement.

   NHTSA complaint #11763110 · source
5. Filed Aug 25, 2026KSEngine

   It appears the engine has gone bad. Water leaking into cylinders. Car is in shop now. Friendly Ford in Arkansas City, Ks. They may have contacted you.

   NHTSA complaint #11759310 · source
6. Filed Aug 19, 2026CAEngine

   First the transmission failed on the freeway and was almost squished between a semi and car. I pay thousands to get it fixed and now the engine light is on and the transmission fluid and the coolant are leaking into each other. I can't accelerate very well and they said it can't be fixed only a NEW engine. The mechanic at your dealership said it's a known problem and that there is no recall yet. I'm sorry for the working family this a cost that can not be endured! This is…

   NHTSA complaint #11758006 · source
7. Filed Jul 17, 2026113,000 miMIBody & StructureEngine

   The contact owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine, with the engine revving. The contact stated that while turning off the vehicle, the engine was knocking very roughly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for failures with the bearings and the rotors. The contact stated…

   NHTSA complaint #11751076 · source
8. Filed Jul 2, 202658,000 miIAEngine

   The contact’s parents owns a 2016 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer because the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that shortly after starting the vehicle there was white smoke coming from the vehicle for approximately 5 seconds. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there coolant was leaking intrusion into cylinder #2, and an issue with the engine block. The dealer recommended that the engine…

   NHTSA complaint #11747911 · source
9. Filed Jun 24, 2026VAEngine

   Coolant has leaked into the engine cylinder which apparently is a well known issue that Ford is refusing to rectify. Ford dealership confirmed this diagnosis and says I have to pay $12k for a new engine.

   NHTSA complaint #11746259 · source
10. Filed Jun 21, 2026OHEngineTransmission & Drivetrain

    While driving my car home, my transmission completely gave out. I was trying to get up a hill, and out of nowhere, my car was just revving and was not going anywhere. I tried to turn the car off and back on, but it did nothing. We towed my car to a mechanic and they gave me the unfortunate news that my transmission needed completely replaced or rebuilt. I towed it to a transmission specialist, and they had to rebuild my entire transmission. I was without a car for an entire…

    NHTSA complaint #11745490 · source
11. Filed Jun 18, 2026NJEngineTransmission & Drivetrain

    My head gasket blew on the escape with only 104,000 miles on it. It cost me $3500 to fix. 5 months later it blew again and I’m being told my engine block is cracked. I’m now being quoted another $3500 to put another engine in it with 90,000 miles on it.

    NHTSA complaint #11745045 · source
12. Filed Jun 13, 2026OHEngine

    My car overheated repeatedly and it was diagnosed by Liberty Ford Aurora Ohio to be caused by Coolant Intrusion. I was quoted a price of more than $11,000.00 to replace the engine

    NHTSA complaint #11743854 · source

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology