2018 Ford Escape engine problems

1,116 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2018 Ford Escape — 64% of all complaints for this model year.

1,116

Engine complaints

64%

share of all complaints

78,667 mi

median reported incident mileage

4 / 4

crash / fire reports

What owners report

“The coolant leaked into the engine specifically regarding cylinder 3. Not available due to being at the Ford Dealership. I was driving and my engine started giving out. My car was shaking while driving and when pressing the gas peddle it was giving not. It then refused to move and I had to pull…”
filed Aug 5, 2026
“The check engine light started flashing and my car lost acceleration as I traveling uphill on a busy freeway. I had it towed to my mechanic who found evidence of coolant leaking related to cylinder 2 in my engine. I did not feel safe going so slow on a busy freeway. My car did not have any problems…”
filed Aug 5, 2026
“COMPONENTS FAILED & AVAILABILITY:Engine and transmission failed concurrently at 45,893 miles. Engine suffered internal coolant intrusion per Ford TSB 19-2139 . Transmission failed mechanically. Components are available for inspection. SAFETY RISK:Defects create severe roadway hazards. Transmission causes dangerous…”
filed Aug 5, 2026
“I read the recent article about the recalls for the ford fusion, focus and eco sport. The exact same issue happened to my 2018 escape with about 85000 miles. The oil light and engine light came on and the car lost power. It would only go about 30 miles an hour. This occurred when my son was traveling home from college…”
filed Aug 5, 2026

Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.

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