The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. An independent mechanic was contacted regarding the failure and the mechanic acknowledged that several other similar vehicles had experienced the same failure with the transmission. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
2020 Ford Escape transmission complaints
Page 4 of 9: complaints 71 to 100 of 243, newest first, as owners wrote them.
On 9/15/2025, my 2020 Ford Escape SE began experiencing serious electrical and shift system issues: hard downshifting, “Shift System Fault” warning, inability to go into park, and failure to shut off without disconnecting the battery. I confirmed a related PCM recall was active and had the vehicle towed to Art Hill Ford for diagnostic and recall service. The dealership refused to perform the PCM recall, claiming my issue “didn’t match” the symptoms — despite clear electrical failure. Instead, they diagnosed a park pawl solenoid issue without scanning or physically inspecting the vehicle. I was told the issue was resolved, paid ~$1,400, and picked up the vehicle. Within 24 hours, new and dangerous transmission issues arose: harsh downshifting, loss of power, sudden high RPMs, and dashboard warnings. I became stranded in the middle of the road and had to have the car towed again. After this second visit, the dealer claimed there were metal shavings in the transmission and now says I need a full transmission replacement (~$10,000). These shavings were not reported during their first transmission disassembly — which is highly suspicious and may indicate the damage was caused during or after their service. Replacing transmission fluid on high-mileage vehicles (mine has ~132,000 miles) is known to be risky and can cause internal failure if not done carefully. My transmission had no mechanical problems prior to this visit. I now believe the dealership’s misdiagnosis, failure to perform the PCM safety recall 1st, and service caused a safety-critical failure that they are refusing to take responsibility for. I am a veteran with a pregnant wife — we depend on this vehicle. Ford corporate has not provided assistance. This situation has left me without transportation and potentially with catastrophic repair costs due to service-related damage.
The primary component that failed is the turbocharger system, which has malfunctioned five times since October 2024. Additional failures include the catalytic converter, and there is now suspected motor damage. These components are currently in possession of the dealership and are available for inspection upon request. The safety of myself and my children was repeatedly put at risk. The first turbocharger failure left us stranded in early morning traffic, with no engine power and limited ability to exit the roadway safely. Subsequent failures occurred within 24 hours of service completion. These breakdowns created dangerous roadside conditions, especially during high-traffic hours and in areas without safe pull-off zones. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed multiple times by the dealership’s service department. Each turbocharger replacement has failed within days, and the vehicle is currently awaiting its fifth turbocharger in two months. The dealership has also confirmed damage to the catalytic converter and now suspects motor damage. The vehicle has been inspected repeatedly by the dealership, which is in contact with Ford Motor Company. However, Ford has not provided a permanent solution or acknowledged the root cause. No inspections have been conducted by police or insurance representatives at this time. Prior to second breakdown; the FordPass app displayed an oil life warning at 0%, which was reportedly reset by the service department, raising concerns about system accuracy. The vehicle has also triggered diagnostic codes P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) and P0234 (Turbocharger Overboost Condition), both of which are consistent with the mechanical failures observed. Additionally, Manufacturer Recall 25S76 was acknowledged, but when asked whether the fuel injectors had been inspected, the technician stated they would only be replaced if a fuel leak or smell was present. This reactive approach contradicts the intent of the recall.
Powertrain control module failure causing vehicle to lose power and engine to run at 5 to 6 RPMs. and transmission not shifting properly. Vehicle is going into limp mode and will also shut down while driving but the engine stays running and the cruise does not shut off. There is not remedy for the recall that I believe is causing these issues. This has been going on for 6 month. This vehicle has been nothing but a problem.
Purchased certified vehicle from Wray Ford on 2/23/24. Car was previously leased by FMCC and still listed as a Ford Fleet Vehicle in Michigan as of 9/12/25. VIN confirms it falls under Ford safety recall 24S79, which was never performed. Vehicle experienced unintended acceleration and non-responsive braking, behaving autonomously. FordPass Connect, FMCC, and Wray Ford all confirmed it was unsafe to drive based on 38 diagnostic codes from July/August 2025. June 2025 data and other dates were blacked out. No warning lights or alerts appeared in the FordPass app prior to the crash on 8/25/25.Allstate Insurance removed the vehicle from Wray Ford without authorization, falsely claimed a $10,000 salvage offer, and altered the accident date in the online portal. Damage estimates were manipulated: initial $4,500 based on five photos, later inflated to $13,195 using the same photos. Shreve Collision’s manager confirmed no estimate was performed, contradicting Allstate’s claims. Allstate appears to be shielding Ford from liability. The vehicle is no longer in my possession, but documentation and diagnostic records are preserved. I believe Ford concealed a critical defect and suppressed diagnostic data, putting my safety and others at serious risk.I have contacted FORD and they are stalling and have misrepresented to me many things. They admitted that they can access FORDPASS CONNECT DATA remotely and their agent stated driving this vehicle is not an option. I have almost been involved in prior accidents because of hidden defect in my car. My son has audio recordings, transcripts, Ford Pass Connect Data. We believe Allstate changed the date of the accident to throw off a forensic examinator. I have proof of Allstate changing the accident date and removing documents. This is really a serious breach by Allstate and Ford. I am 80 years old, and if it was not for my son I would have never known this and my son is half owner of the car and is very concerned for my safety.
My car togs a lot. My tire sensors keep going out. I've smelt gas before while driving. It's very slow going up hill. I hear grinding sounds intermittently
Summary: Failure of AWD/transfer case control module causing loss of multiple safety and driveline functions. Vehicle is currently being repaired at Ford dealership so will have already been corrected. While driving, multiple dash warnings appeared: “Service AdvanceTrac,” “AWD Not Available,” “Hill Start Assist Not Available,” and “Drive Mode Not Available.” The vehicle lost all all-wheel-drive functionality as well as traction/stability features. Dealer diagnosed an internal failure of the AWD/transfer case control module. Safety Impact: This failure disables critical safety systems (AdvanceTrac stability control, Hill Start Assist, AWD traction). In poor weather or emergency maneuvers, loss of these systems could increase the risk of crash. Repair Estimate: Dealer quoted ~$1,070 for replacement of AWD control module (parts, labor, and programming). Concern: This is a major driveline and safety system failure at only 40,000 miles. Ford previously acknowledged AWD module defects in 2020 Escapes under Customer Satisfaction Program 21B19, which suggests this may be a broader issue that warrants investigation or recall.
There are many thousands of Ford Escape owners with this same issue. The shifter knob will not shift out of park in hot weather, sometimes taking 20 to 30 minutes for the vehicle's interior to cool sufficiently to shift into drive. Ford is ignoring this problem. I don't understand why they are looking the other way and not fixing this well-known issue.
Vehicle has active alerts for powertrain control module, and low boost pressure with the turbocharge along with emissions codes P0299, P0496 and P0456. The vehicle is constantly going into deep sleep mode. While driving the vehicle started to enter safe mode. And displayed an alert that said please turn ignition on. The dash and screen went black like vehicle was off but it was still running. This happened multiple times. My vehicle also will not start after pumping gas so I have to leave vehicle running every time I pump gas. My vehicle will not pass NY state inspection because of the recalls.
2020 ford escape titanium with 28111 miles on it throwing A VERY COMMOM error “AWD fault” the amount of these at this point should be recalled.
Around the 38,000 mile mark on our 2020 Ford Escape we received many different errors (AWD Fault, ABS, AdvanceTrac Service, Hill assist, etc). I found out via the federal safety agency and other forums that this is a common issue in the vehicle from the AWD module, and although it is AWD related, it is not eligible for the Powertrain warranty per Ford because it is an electrical component. I declined the $1200 repair at the dealership so I could first call Ford Customer Service, at the recommendation of the dealership, though the Service Tech did mention it is a safety concern because the ABS is apparently also controlled by the AWD. After a couple different calls to Ford, they have refused to acknowledge that it is a manufacturer defect, or pay for the repair. With no help from Ford, I have no other option than to file a complaint here. Based on other resources online, the issue seems to stem from improper grounding of the wiring on the AWD module.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 15 MPH, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of automotive power with the “Service Vehicle Soon” light illuminated. The vehicle came to a complete stop in the middle of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the powertrain was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 62,000.
2020 Ford Escape SEL was taken into Ford Service Center for oil change and to address acceleration issue that started two days prior, (check engine light had come on the day before drop off). One week after dropping my vehicle off to be assessed, I was told I needed a small part and it would be complete in 3 days. Another week went by, so I reached out and was told that I need a new engine because of a known Ford issue. Unknown to me, coolant was leaking into the engine and destroyed it. I was assured by the Ford technician that this was a known issue and the problem did not arise from something I did/did not do. I was quoted over $9k and weeks worth of work. I easily drove the vehicle to the Service Center, but was told it is now no longer drivable. I drive a LOT for work and had only had the vehicle for 15 months, still owing over $16k on my auto loan. I had no choice but to purchase a new (NOT FORD) vehicle and am now stuck with two vehicle payments. Vehicle is still sitting at the Ford Service Center while I pay on it monthly.
The contact called on behalf of the owner of a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light and multiple warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and found metal shavings inside the transmission, with a burn odor coming from the transmission. The contact's daughter was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure persisted, and the vehicle remained at the residence unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Awd fault, pre-collision assist and hill start assist warnings displaying in cluster.
Car was jerking during acceleration. RPM needle was bouncing while accelerating. It felt like there was a loss of power. Brought it to a Ford Dealership and they were unable to find a problem directly related to this issue. They took care of other problems such as the fuel sensor. Brought it to a transmission specialist and they said the torque converter was bad and need to be replaced. Car has 89k miles on it.
Shortly after having new tires installed at the dealership the following warnings displayed: AWD Fault Service Required, Hill Start Assist, Pre-Collision and Traccontrol. Mileage was around 10,700, June 2025. Dealer unable to look at until July 2025. Advised that the RDU motor needed replacement. Replacement was completed 7/23/25. The vehicle was 5 months past the Powertrain warranty. So out of pocket was over $1,900. Given the low mileage on the vehicle it seems that this should not have happened. Research here and other websites indicate this is a known issue. The dealer indicated the same.
Power Train Fault Indicator came on indicating that the Turbo Charger was in an underboost condition. This caused the vehicle to lose power on the highway which could have placed my family in a unsafe condition.
Component: Powertrain / Transmission Vehicle: 2020 Ford Escape Mileage at failure: 53,500 Transmission began violently jerking, hesitating, and mis-shifting around 53,000 miles. Brought to Ford of Sunnyvale on May 2, 2025 where the dealership diagnosed complete transmission failure. Instead of replacing, they installed a software update that masked the problem for a few weeks before it returned worse. Vehicle is now unsafe to drive — surging, delayed shifting, unpredictable acceleration — especially dangerous for highway merging or family use. This is a known issue with Ford’s 8F35 transmission. Ford TSB 22-2281 documents widespread failures and need for planetary gear replacement. What’s more concerning is that this failure occurred within what should have been the 5-year/60k powertrain warranty. Ford denied full coverage based on a hidden warranty start date from demo use. I was never informed at lease that the warranty had started 6 months earlier. My wife drives our two small children in this car, and it is now unsafe and undrivable. Ford should be held accountable not only for the mechanical failure, but for masking the problem and compromising customer safety.
I started experiencing transmission issues with my vehicle around 80,000 miles. When I initially brought it to a Ford dealership for inspection, I was told there was nothing wrong—despite also reporting other concerns with the vehicle. The jerking and shifting issues continued over the following months and became more frequent. Once the vehicle reached just over 100,000 miles, I returned to the dealership and was then informed that the transmission had failed. This was frustrating, as I had been reporting symptoms for a long time with no resolution. To this day, no warning lights or dashboard messages have appeared to indicate any transmission issues.No warning lights, messages, or diagnostic codes appeared before or during the progression of this issue. The only symptom has been the physical jerking and irregular shifting, which first appeared around 80,000 miles. I have a case number with Ford.
When it's hot outside, the car will not shift out of park.
Transmission shredded internally after piston blew.
turn on vehicle dashboard lights up where my AWD not working, my collision assist not working, Trac not working, drive mode not working. This started about a week ago from end of June. I did find a recall for 2020 Escape EcoBoost but my vin is not on there. I cannot access my drive mode my collision light does not work and I am driving in front wheel.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the DPFE sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic to be repaired. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred approximately five months later when the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the check engine warning light illuminated, and several minutes later, the power train warning light illuminated and a message to "Refer to the Owner’s Manual” was displayed and the vehicle failed to accelerate above 40 MPH. The contact stated that the vehicle went into "LIMP Mode". The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and turned off. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where DTC: P0402 and P1061 were retrieved, and the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,819.
For 6 months, after a routine visit and safety recall preformed by ford, I have had an issue with the park brake engaging on its own. When pressing the button to disengage it, the car would not disengage and would remain locked. The only way to disengage it would be to throw the car into reverse, press the button to disengage the park brake and step on the gas pedal as fast as you could. After 6 months of trying to diagnose the issue, ford pittsville came up inconclusive, replacing multiple parts of the e-brake such as the buttons themselves, the wires connecting the brakes, and checking over the brakes. The issue itself was unrecreatable but the only common denominator was remote starting the car via the app. The most recent investigation this past month conducted by ford revealed that the pin for my brake and e brake was loose after they (ford) had replaced it. They fixed the connection and delivered my car to me. I hadnt even driven the car yet, only remote started it due to the heat. When the car was started, it immediately popped up with a new issue. The powertrain had failed, with codes popping up via fords system indicating the: park brake, brake system, gear shift, and 5 other codes that i cannot recall at the moment showing on their system. Ford diagnosed the problem, finding the gear shift itself was not engaging due to a loose pin (code: P0929:77). I was told that the car was safe to drive but there has been zero communication on when the part would be ordered or taken care of. I have tried to follow up multiple times with the dealership in the past two weeks and update them about the cars current state, including now with the error still showing, my steering feels loose and my car feels as if it is drifting while i drive.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the power train warning light illuminated, and the "AWD Fault" message was displayed. The vehicle taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that an unknown module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred approximately a year later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 21,804.
AWD Fault
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed on two occasions, the powertrain warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle on one of the occasions, the message "No Hill Assist" and another unknown message were displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that an active shutter switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of failure. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while shifting into reverse, the vehicle drove forward instead of reversing. During the most recent failure, after starting the vehicle, the contact shifted the vehicle into park, and the vehicle collided with the contact's home. No warning lights illuminated. No air bags deployed. No injuries were sustained, and no medical attention was provided. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the valve body was binding internally, and sticking shift valves assembly had failed. The vehicle was repaired under warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline for further assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 33,704.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the chrome on the gear shifter had started to peel, creating sharp edges on the shifter knob. The contact stated that while attempting to move the gear shifter, the contact sustained minor cuts to the fingers from the peeling gear shifter. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
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