The engine light came on while driving, and the car immediately started sputtering and producing a lot of smoke. Luckily, I was able to pull over safely and turn off the vehicle. After the car cooled off, I inspected the oil level and noticed it was low. I had my partner bring me new 5W20 oil, and I refilled the oil compartment, but upon restarting the engine, the light did not go away. The vehicle had to be towed to the shop, where it was diagnosed with low pressure on piston #2 caused by coolant intrusion and recommended engine replacement, with a quote of $12,391.83. There were no signs or symptoms before the catastrophic failure. The car is very well taken care of and has had all oil changes done at the recommended frequency. The car is 8 years old and has 92,855 miles, just outside of the limits covered by Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12. I feel that there should have been a recall for this known issue that put my life at risk due to Ford's negligence. I still have the car and it is available for inspection, but I don't know what to do since the repair is more expensive than the retail value of the vehicle.
2017 Ford Escape engine complaints
Page 17 of 68: complaints 461 to 490 of 2,003, newest first, as owners wrote them.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that on three occasions, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was jumpstarted on each occasion. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that on two occasions when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an AutoZone where a handled diagnostic machine retrieved a code that the VVT valve timing solenoid had an error. The vehicle was taken to the residence and the part was replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred after several days. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving on two occasions the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not reared. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure was approximately 150,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was faulty due to coolant intrusion, and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 98,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked and was running abnormally rough. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the contact became aware of smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact stopped and parked the vehicle. The contact inspected the fluid levels, and the fluid levels were sufficient. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a coolant intrusion and engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to another independent mechanic where it was confirmed that the failure was due to coolant intrusion, causing engine failure. In addition, the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle sputtered and the engine was running rough. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the spark plugs had failed and needed to be replaced. The spark plugs were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic, who replaced the ignition coils; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was returned to the dealer a third time, and the mechanic diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion in cylinder #3. The mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact became aware of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 12V431000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 81,277.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the message to pull over at the earliest safe warning light illuminated. The contact immediately drove the vehicle to the dealer. The contact was informed that there was coolant was leaking into the engine and engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was referred to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 79,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle experienced a rough idle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed due to coolant intrusion and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,397.
It stopped at a red light with no warning. It would only drive 5 miles per hour. The temp gauge was topped out. Mechanic said that it was leaking fluid in the cylinder and cracked the head. Having to get a new engine. I’ve read that this is an ongoing problem with Ford. Should not have to pay to replace a defective engine
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the cylinder, causing the engine block to fail. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 91,000.
The contact’s daughter owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and turned off, the contact’s daughter attempted to start the vehicle, and the vehicle lost power with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that coolant had leaked into the engine, causing the engine block to fail. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.
High engine temperature warning continuously on. Engine temperature gauge always shows highest reading, even after sitting overnight. Coolant was empty. Added coolant. When driven, does not shift out of first gear and is a little shaky when trying to drive. Mechanic says a new engine is needed due to coolant leaking into engine.
ford coolant intrusion problem. had to replace motor i. 90,000 miles on escape cost $7950.00 plus $150.00 to have it diagnosed.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot(H). The vehicle was steered to a side parking lot and turned off and coolant was added to the coolant reservoir. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion into the engine, and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,623.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that a handheld diagnostic machine was used to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission, and torque converter. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 112,453.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle was idling rough with smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The coolant level was constantly low despite adding coolant once every 3 days. The dealer was contacted and informed of the failure. The dealer confirmed there were no recalls associated with the failure. The contact learned of Customer Satisfaction Program: the federal safety agency ID 10213732 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed there was no recall associated with the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 111,768.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the dealer discovered coolant intrusion into the engine block, causing engine damage. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 26,406.
Vehicle suddenly overheaded and stalled to 5 mph. Mechanic states that there is a coolant leak that damaged the engine. Apparently, this is a known issue that Ford refuses to acknowledge. I have researched this a lot and it seems to be a very common problem. This was extremely dangerous as my [XXX] newly licensed son was driving the vehicle at the time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
1. On [XXX] the coolant leaked into the engine cylinders causing complete engine failure. Yes, it is available for inspection. 2. On [XXX] my [XXX] son was driving with my [XXX] son and the engine overheated, nearly burning them both when they tried to release the pressurized coolant reservoir. 3. Yes, an autobody shop confirmed this upon inspection this morning (July 7th, 2025). 4. The only warning came while my son was driving on [XXX] and the engine warning appeared. He pulled over to pop the hood and inspect. On June 12th, 2025 my son had an oil change and inspection done where it was reported that the coolant reservoir was filled to a "safe level". INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the message "Service Engine Soon" was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact used the Ford App and became aware of a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for a diagnostic test and the contact was informed that there was coolant intrusion into the cylinders, relating in engine failure. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was 78,083.
I own a 2017 Ford Escape with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine. The engine began exhibiting symptoms of coolant intrusion into the combustion chamber. A certified Ford dealership confirmed the diagnosis after inspection and advised that the engine needs to be replaced or rebuilt due to this issue. This defect is known and widespread in this engine type and can lead to engine failure while driving, posing a serious safety risk. Although Ford issued a Customer Satisfaction Program (CSP 21N12) for this exact problem, my vehicle was just outside the expiration period, and Ford has denied financial assistance, despite this being a documented and recurring defect. There were no warning lights before the engine began running rough and misfiring. The coolant loss was gradual and internal. This issue has been confirmed and documented by a Ford dealership, and I have a case open with Ford corporate. I am filing this complaint because of the safety risks involved with coolant intrusion, the costly repair burden passed to consumers, and Ford’s refusal to support a known defect that could lead to sudden engine failure while driving.
Coolant leak
I am reaching out regarding a serious issue with my 2017 Ford Escape SE AWD (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle has developed a coolant leak that appears to be internal, which has led to concerns about engine performance and potential long-term damage. After researching this issue, I discovered that coolant intrusion into the cylinders is a known and widespread problem affecting this model and engine type. Many owners have reported similar failures, and I understand that this defect has led to class action lawsuits and service bulletins in the past. Given the safety and reliability concerns involved—especially the risk of engine overheating and failure—I respectfully request that this issue be addressed under any applicable recall, customer satisfaction program, or warranty extension related to engine coolant leaks. Please advise on the next steps for inspection and repair authorization. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine, causing engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Consistent coolant leakage and milky build-up under engine oil cap. On start-up, intermittent rough idling, as well as check engine light indicating a misfire with cylinder 2. Vehicle is available for inspection. My safety has been put at risk previous as I was driving and received a notification to stop engine now due to high temperatures, and inspected to find the coolant reservoir was nearly empty. Today while getting an oil change, the mechanic noted lots of engine sludge build-up, as well as a swollen gasket due to the sludge build-up.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle started shuddering. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was later illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into cylinder #3, causing an engine misfire. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that assistance could not be provided, and that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 68,200.
Powertrain suddenly failed with no prior issues displaying red Powertrain failure light- car will not move or shift, has high RPMS and has loud revving/screeching sound
1.5 engine failure due to coolant intrusion into the cylinder.
My vehicles check engine light came on. Capital Ford of Raleigh NC picked up the vehicle to check the status. I received a phone call later that day from Capital Ford informing me I need a new engine. Capital Ford admits it is a Ford issue. The coolant is leaking into the engine. I have been told this is a Ford design defect. One day I had a perfectly good vehicle and now I don't. I am now forced to purchase another vehicle which will potentially cost me thousands. Ford is aware of the issue but did not disclose. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
coolant intrusion... the car is not unsafe and the Ford Dealership said that I need an engine. The care has 130,000 miles. I can't believe it. I have all of my maintenance up to date. They are telling me my car has a manufactory defect. I no longer have transportation. How unfair is this.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined there was coolant intrusion into several cylinders, resulting in engine damage. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: 21N12 (Short Block Replacement After Coolant Intrusion). The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 90,000.
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