The vehicle dossier US · 2018

2018 Ford
ESCAPEProblems & recalls

1,797 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Engine appears in 1,426 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 1,797 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Engine1,426 reports
Transmission & drivetrain271 reports
Other components192 reports
Electrical system54 reports
Fuel system54 reports
Steering32 reports
Brakes27 reports
Body & structure20 reports
Visibility13 reports
Suspension11 reports
Air bags9 reports
See original component labels
ENGINE1,149
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING335
POWER TRAIN261
UNKNOWN OR OTHER105
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM51
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM42
STEERING32
SERVICE BRAKES25
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL19
WHEELS19
STRUCTURE:BODY12
EXTERIOR LIGHTING10
AIR BAGS9
SEAT BELTS9
SUSPENSION9
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE9
VISIBILITY/WIPER7
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS6
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION6
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING5
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM4
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION4
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)3
VISIBILITY3
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL3
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA3
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)3
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL2
STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:DASHBOARD2
BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING2
EQUIPMENT2
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS:CANISTER2
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER2
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE1
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT1
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT1
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY1
TIRES1
BACK OVER PREVENTION1
TIRES:SIDEWALL1
TIRES:TREAD/BELT1
SEATS1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER1
FIRERELATED1
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:ELECTRONIC LOCK/LATCH ACTUATOR1
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:HILL START ASSIST:SOFTWARE1
STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE1
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE1
STRUCTURE1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:SEALS/GASKETS1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES1
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM1
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER1
PARKING BRAKE1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS1
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)1
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS1
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER1
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER1
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH1
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL1
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 9 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: Sep 24, 2026
Mileage, where supplied

80,519 miles is the median among 668 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 50,000–102,000 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

4 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

Jan 15, 2026 Safety recallEQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATERCampaign 26V011000

Reported concern

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.

Manufacturer’s stated response

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.

Manufacturer campaign: 26S01

Read campaign 26V011000 at NHTSA
Jun 10, 2022 Safety recallPOWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/RODCampaign 22V413000

Reported concern

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.

Manufacturer’s stated response

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.

Manufacturer campaign: 22S43

Read campaign 22V413000 at NHTSA
Feb 12, 2018 Safety recallSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGSCampaign 18V104000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape and Lincoln MKC vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with incorrect front brake hoses that may chafe against other components, possibly resulting in a brake fluid leak.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake hoses, replacing any that are incorrect, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S04.

Manufacturer campaign: 18S04

Read campaign 18V104000 at NHTSA
Dec 18, 2017 Safety recallAIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOWCampaign 17V803000

Reported concern

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Escape vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.

Manufacturer’s stated response

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S44.

Manufacturer campaign: 17S44

Read campaign 17V803000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

173 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Feb 24, 2026 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 54601Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypa…NHTSA ID 11029052

Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how to retrieve the master code. This guide is located under the Workshop Manual tab > Accessories > Installation > Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide > PPT C > Step C2.<br /><br /> Note: The only available keypad for some vehicles from the assembly plant is the accessory wireless keyless entry keypad. The integrated wired keypad cannot be installed on vehicles not equipped from the factory with a wired keyless entry k

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · STRUCTURE:BODY · UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11029052 at NHTSA
Nov 26, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 25-2570This article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation …NHTSA ID 11025837

This article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation concerns  Navigation inoperative  Voice recognition concerns  Phone connection issues  Dropped phone connections  Applink related performance  Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic  Slow system response NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software. The SYNC 3 universal thumb drive will be able to update the APIM software without the use of a scan tool and does not require the process to be monitored. Ford will be monitoring APIM replacements to confirm TSB directed software updates have been performed.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11025837 at NHTSA
Nov 12, 2025 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 54366Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powe…NHTSA ID 11025611

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · POWER TRAIN. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11025611 at NHTSA
Oct 10, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 53040While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford an…NHTSA ID 11008948

While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11008948 at NHTSA
May 27, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsTSB 24-2165This article supersedes TSB 21-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explo…NHTSA ID 11001174

This article supersedes TSB 21-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. related concerns including but not limited to: Display operation concerns Navigation inoperative Voice recognition concerns Phone connection issues Dropped phone connections Applink related performance Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic Slow system response This may be due to the SYNC software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software. NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software.

Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 11001174 at NHTSA
Apr 24, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 52476All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles own…NHTSA ID 10254138

All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery. Unlike the integrated (wired) factory keypad, the accessory keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is lost, follow these steps to recover the code. Dealer Key Code access is granted through the Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES); dealership management can authorize users. The authorized user must go to FMCDealer.com > Parts and Service > Parts Product Line Information > Keys/Entry Devices > Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Follow the instructions on the screen to obtain the master code for the accessory keypad.

Components: EQUIPMENT. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10254138 at NHTSA
Mar 6, 2024 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 52335For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluat…NHTSA ID 10251952

For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.

Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10251952 at NHTSA
Aug 2, 2023 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 51838In various 2017-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the (SYNC Connect) FordPass or Linco…NHTSA ID 10241627

In various 2017-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the (SYNC Connect) FordPass or LincolnWay app through the TCU Embedded Modem. If this message appears, the vehicle may be equipped with a fleet telematics module. Replacement of the TCU or TCU related repairs will not prevent this message from appearing. Refer the customer to in app FordPass Guides or LincolnWay Concierge Teams to aid with fleet telematics removal. Open app, select Account > Help > CHAT or CALL option.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10241627 at NHTSA
Jun 8, 2023 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSAN-Vol1 I1The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, t…NHTSA ID 10240743

The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and other service information.

Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10240743 at NHTSA
Apr 4, 2023 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 51536For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identif…NHTSA ID 10235153

For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle. Most modules on these affected vehicles are VIN/vehicle specific and hardware variations between modules do exist. Swapping a module from a vehicle or ordering a module using a different vehicle/VIN can cause ineffective repairs and additional vehicle down time. Make sure all appropriate Workshop Manual (WSM) procedures are followed when diagnosing the condition prior to all module replacements and only order modules using the correct VIN.

Components: STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10235153 at NHTSA
Mar 2, 2023 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 51409Some 2014-2020 Fusion and 2017-2019 Escape vehicles may be equipped with a 1.5L Ecoboost engine that uses a 50-tooth variable camshaft timing (VCT) intake and exhaust unit from the assembly plant or if a service long block was …NHTSA ID 10233681

Some 2014-2020 Fusion and 2017-2019 Escape vehicles may be equipped with a 1.5L Ecoboost engine that uses a 50-tooth variable camshaft timing (VCT) intake and exhaust unit from the assembly plant or if a service long block was installed. VCT locking tool 303-1097 is not compatible with this system. If VCT system service is required, replace both the intake VCT (service part DS7Z-6256-F) and exhaust VCT (service part DS7Z-6256-G) as a pair. An interim loaner tool program has been established to enable these repairs. Contact 1-800-403-4844 (Monday-Friday 8:00am to 8:00pm EST; Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm EST) to obtain this tool. A VCT locking tool compatible with the 50-tooth system is under development and will be sent to dealerships. Continue to monitor OASIS for additional information.

Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10233681 at NHTSA
Dec 16, 2022 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSSM 51261Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake ro…NHTSA ID 10228876

Some Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00. The brake rotors should only be machined if directed by the WSM because one or more of the following conditions are present on the braking surface: scoring, excessive corrosion/rust or pitting, bluing/discoloration and/or heat spots. For additional information, refer to WSM section 206-00.

Components: SERVICE BRAKES. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10228876 at NHTSA
Browse all manufacturer records by page

Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

No investigation records matched this model-year in the snapshot.

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