2016 Ford Escape engine problems
195 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2016 Ford Escape — 18% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“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…”
filed Jul 17, 2026
“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…”
filed Jul 2, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
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…
SSM 52335 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Mar 6, 2024
Engine problems in other Escape years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Escape | 5 | 24% |
| 2024 Escape | 13 | 17% |
| 2023 Escape | 28 | 30% |
| 2022 Escape | 32 | 14% |
| 2021 Escape | 40 | 12% |
| 2020 Escape | 112 | 7% |
| 2019 Escape | 299 | 52% |
| 2018 Escape | 1,116 | 64% |
| 2017 Escape | 1,543 | 58% |
| 2015 Escape | 236 | 22% |
| 2014 Escape | 719 | 35% |
| 2013 Escape | 1,263 | 46% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Ford Escape
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.