2018 Ford Escape Complaint Log

While entering the highway my vehicle started to buck.i took my foot off the gas and then it accelerated really fast in on coming traffic the check engine light came on it immediately over heated and shut of on the highway in traffic

coolant intrusion in engine, dangerous, can cause fires

I have 2018 Ford Escape SE 1.5L engine, approx. 81,500 miles. Date into service 05/26/2018. Diagnosed on 04/18/2026 at Ford dealer (see attached) with Coolant Intrusion into engine. Ford dealer states that Ford will not assist with repair/replacement of engine because vehicle has been in service more than 7 years.

Coolant in engine block; replacement engine required and not covered by warranty.

This vehicle has 110000 miles. Has coolant intrusion in cylinder 2. Has had an issue since 45000 miles with drivability. Coils and spark plugs were replaced even though coolant intrusion was a known issue at the time.

Hello, I would like to file a safety complaint regarding my Ford Escape. Vehicle Information: VIN: [XXX] Make/Model: Ford Escape Year: 2018 Issue Description: While driving, my vehicle suddenly overheated. The temperature gauge moved from normal to hot within seconds, and a warning appeared to stop the vehicle immediately. This created a serious safety concern, as the failure was sudden and without warning. After inspection by a certified technician, I was informed that the engine is consuming coolant internally, and the coolant is being burned through the exhaust system. There is no visible external leak. The engine is now running rough and requires full engine replacement. I have learned that this is a known issue with Ford Escape engines, often referred to as “coolant intrusion.” Despite this being a widely reported defect, Ford has declined to provide any financial assistance. I have contacted Ford and opened a case (Case Number: XXX), but they confirmed this is not a recall and will not cover repairs. This issue creates a significant safety risk due to sudden engine overheating and potential engine failure while driving. I am requesting that this issue be investigated, as it appears to be a widespread defect affecting many Ford Escape vehicles. Thank you for your attention to this matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Coolant intrusion into the cylinders

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed or while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed a coolant leak coming from the engine. The contact was unaware of any warning lights being illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.

My 2018 Ford Escape has diagnostic codes P0302 and P0316 cylinder 2 misfire and no compression on cylinder 2 due to coolant intrusion into the engine block. This is a known defect documented in Ford TSB 22-2322 and Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12. My VIN was excluded from this program despite having the identical failure and identical fault codes as covered vehicles. This engine failure occurred at highway speed creating a dangerous safety hazard. Ford has refused goodwill assistance despite this being a known manufacturing defect.

I am writing to formally report regarding a serious issue with my Ford Escape 2018. The engine failed at the mileage of 37,833 miles, which is far earlier than any reasonable expectation for a vehicle of this age and mileage. This type of major mechanical breakdown is not consistent with normal wear and tear and raises concerns about the durability of the engine. Ford dealership did the formal evaluation of my Ford ESCAPE 2018

Keep getting an error code for P0303 cylinder 3 misfire. I have replaced everything to correct this problem but keep getting the same error. Started noticing that coolant is leaving reservoir and only returns when I remove the cap. When I turn the car off I hear water rushing behind the dashboard. There are no leaks seen. I've started having very quick and sudden overheating that cools quickly after stopping the car. I get a dash message "engine fault service now" message that goes away after I remove the cap from the coolant, thus allowing the reservoir to refill. I've been dealing with the P0303 code off and on for a year now, but the coolant issue started a couple of months ago. Yesterday was the first overheating of the engine and the only place I could pull over was very dangerous and I was not able to fully get out of the road. I saw there is a recall on 2018 Ford Escapes for coolant intrusion. Why is this one not included?!

This Ford 2018 Escape has an Intrusion that is a Major defect on this motor . It is in the shop to be fixed now costing me a total of $6875.27 . As soon as the check engine light came on we stopped the car as we were home. We had the car towed to a mechanic for diagnosis & repair. It is in the shop now. I called Ford and told them and they said it is a known problem but nit a recall at this time and is my responsibility to get it fixed . There is a class action suit filed against Ford now for this but I also wanted to share to you all it is a safety concern . This could have actually caught on fire and I am glad it did not as I shut it down as soon as the check engine light came on and had a mis fire you could feel it in the engine where the intrusion caused the coolant to go into the cracked block into the cylinders.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, and the engine was overheating while white exhaust smoke was coming out of the exhaust pipes. Additionally, the vehicle decelerated and was sluggish while driving. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion in the cylinders. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the vehicle did not qualify for the extended warranty coverage related to the engine failure. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 31,500.

Coolant leak/known engine issue is now effecting my car. 3/31/26 my mechanic said to take it to an engine place as it will need a new engine due to this known fault. I am too late for their extended warranty which I was never notified of, including when I purchased the car in 2021 when the issue was already well-known.

Engine Coolant Intrusion on Cylinder 2. Hydrolocks on start up. Yes available for inspection. Unknown. Yes dealership inspected and confirmed the issue. Recommendation was engine replacement. No inspection by manufacturer,police, or insurance. Check engine turned on for random misfire. After further investigation, coolant levels kept dropping and noticed misfires on start up. 2018 ford escape awd with approximately 125k miles. Diagnoses was a very common coolant intrusion in Cylinder 2. Over $12000 in repairs needed.

My 2018 Ford Escape equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine experienced complete engine failure due to coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders on 3/29/26. This is a known design and manufacturing defect in the engine block, documented by Ford in Technical Service Bulletins 19-2375, 19-2346, 22-2322, and 22-2134, and addressed under Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12 (GTDI Engine – Short Block Replacement After Coolant Intrusion). Ford performed a preventive software update under CSP 19B37 on this vehicle, confirming that Ford identified this VIN as having the at-risk engine. Despite this measure, the engine failed from the exact defect 19B37 was designed to prevent. The engine block’s thin-walled cooling passages between cylinders cracked, allowing coolant to enter the combustion chambers, causing misfires, overheating, and catastrophic engine failure. This engine failure occurred without adequate warning while the vehicle was in motion. Sudden loss of engine power on public roads poses a serious safety risk to the motorists and pedestrians. Ford’s own TSBs describe this as a progressive failure, but coolant loss is internal and may not trigger warning lights until the engine is already critically damaged. Ford has addressed this defect through multiple TSBs and a Customer Satisfaction Program for some VINs, but has not issued a formal recall covering all affected vehicles. Thousands of 2013–2019 Escapes, Fusions, Edges, and Lincoln MKC/MKZ vehicles with 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines remain on the road with this defect. A class action lawsuit has been filed regarding this issue. I urge NHTSA to investigate and require a formal recall. This vehicle was purchased used from an authorized Ford dealership at 54,677 miles ( 7/2/2022). The dealer had full access to Ford’s OASIS system and did not perform the CSP 21N12 short block replacement or disclose the known coolant intrusion defect. As the owner, I was never notified by Ford or the dealer about 21N12.

Safety Risk: The vehicle suffered a sudden loss of power while driving. Without any warning light or prior symptoms, the car began "pulling". I was advised by mechanics that the vehicle was unsafe to drive due to the severity of the misfire. After two expensive spark plug repairs in six months, the engine light finally triggered during a trip, revealing that the internal defect was significantly worse than a simple maintenance issue. The problem began with a sudden, violent engine hesitation. A scan revealed a Cylinder 3 misfire (P0303), but there was no initial check engine light, leaving me unaware of the danger until the car began struggling to move. Over the next six months, the spark plugs were replaced twice. Despite these repairs, the car continued to struggle with acceleration and rough idling. A final diagnosis at Palmetto Ford confirmed coolant intrusion into the cylinders (TSB 22-2322). The engine is consuming coolant internally, which fouled the spark plugs and led to a mechanical failure leading to get over $11000 on repairs for a new engine.

Check engine light on. code = P0303. Safety issue for overheating with potential engine fire. Local dealership service has diagnosed as coolant intrusion into cylinder #3 and coolant loss. vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance representative or other. Vehicle was serviced on January 29th of 2020 for customer satisfaction program 19B37. Vehicle has failed at 88000 miles due same design issue addressed by Ford Motor Company under customer satisfaction program 21N12.

Blown Head gasket due to known faulty Engine. Coolant leaking into cylinders. Known design defect.

I went in to get a tune-up on car because a engine light came on which was a misfire. The mechanic had a hard time getting out one spark plug with a hard residue on it. I drove for a couple days after tune-up and engine light came on again. I then started the next day the garage filled with white smoke with a real weird smell. The car showed another engine light that said Engine fault service now. Car would not start. It was towed to Ford dealership. It is a coolant intrusion into the block. I have 110,000 on vehicle and had the 100,000 extended warranty. I now I need to fight Ford to get fixed. This is a known issue and there was not a recall on this. I am retired and I am forced into buying another vehicle on a fixed income. If Ford does not fix this, i will join the class action suit that will be heard in June 2026. I have bought Fords all my life and I am super disappointed that Ford did not recall this motor and replace. I have heard that alot of people with this problem with coolant intrusion in block if over 84,000 or 7yrs Ford will not replace. Shameful when they know there is this issue.

With only 122,000 miles on the vehicle, the Escape is generating an error associated with a misfire in cylinder 1. New plugs were installed for the entire engine and the coil in cylinder 1 was replaced. A few days later, the error was generated again with an added warning to Server now. The service station that did the previous repair, stated that this was a known issue with this Ford engine and the Escape would need a new engine. If I don't replace the engine, this vehicle has been known to discontinue working while driving. The estimate for repairs are $10,300.

Coolant intrusion on the third cylinder causing over heating and engine failure. Known design flaw by Ford and they only offered a customer service program and not a full recall.

The engine has a coolant intrusion problem with a rough idle and potential for complete failure. This problem is documented as a known problem with this engine and Ford has in the past provided extended warranties including engine replacements. Ford had earlier released TSB 20-2100 and has acknowledged the problem.

Spark plug cylinder 1 gets stuck trying to replace which causes vehicle to misfire

On 3/15/2026 I was on my way home from Massachusetts to Pennsylvania, and about 35 minutes into my drive I got an alert stating "High Engine Temperature Stop Safely", so I pulled over immediately and turned the car off. After allowing the engine to cool down, I opened the hood and started the car to see if I could identify any issues, the "Engine Fault Service Now" alert came up. This was the first time this ever happened, this put me, my two dogs who were in the car with me, and possibly others on the road at risk, had the conditions escalated. (i.e. under hood fire). The vehicle was towed to an Authorized Ford Dealership, Mathieu Ford Sales, Inc. who diagnosed the issue on 3/17/2026. The dealership removed the spark plugs to inspect cylinders and found coolant intrusion into cylinders significantly on cylinder 2. Dealership referenced TSB 22-2322, is recommending short block assembly and related parts to remedy concern. Dealership advised it was safe and okay to drive the vehicle slowly to a nearby residence (to store the vehicle/retain possession), noting to pull over if an alert pops up and to have it towed if I received another message like before. The dealership advised it was not safe to drive the vehicle back to Pennsylvania. There weren't any issues driving the vehicle back on 3/17/2026 following the dealership's guidance; the car hasn't been driven since. The car needed to be jumped to start the vehicle on 4/17/2026 for a tow truck to load the vehicle onto its bed. The vehicle is currently back in possession of the dealership who diagnosed the issue. Upon doing research, this appears to be a widespread manufacturing design defect that Ford has failed to properly address/recall. My vehicle met the criteria under their Customer Satisfaction Program in 2022 - the vehicle is an Escape, 2017-2019, assembled in Louisville, that was Built before April 8, 2019, and which exhibited a covered condition, having low coolant. Ford Motor Co is failing to remedy-cure.

The contact's daughter owns a 2018 Ford Escape. While the owner was driving at various speeds, the engine overheated and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode on several occasions. The driver pulled over to the side of the road, and the vehicle was towed after each failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the coolant sensor was replaced; however, the failure recurred two days later. The vehicle was difficult to start. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact used a scanner to scan the vehicle and retrieved a diagnostic trouble code for a cylinder #2 misfire. The contact cleared the code; however, the check engine warning light became consistently illuminated. Additionally, the contact noticed that the coolant reservoir was black due to coolant and oil mixture. An independent mechanic was contacted and informed the contact that the coolant intrusion in the combustion chamber was a common failure, and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 76,200.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and occupied, the windshield wipers activated independently. Neither an independent mechanic nor the dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,845.

My 2018 Ford Escape, which has experienced catastrophic engine failure due to the well-documented coolant intrusion defect in the 1.5L EcoBoost engine. In early March 2026, without any prewarning or engine light, my vehicle displayed an “Engine Fault Service Now” warning and stored diagnostic trouble code P2601 (Coolant Pump A Control Circuit Performance/Range). I immediately took the vehicle to Bidwell Automotive in [XXX] , where on March 10–11, 2026, technician Gannon performed a thorough inspection. The findings were as follows: the coolant level was critically low; the water pump showed signs of leaking; the top of the piston in the affected cylinder appeared washed clean (a hallmark of coolant entering the combustion chamber); and the technician detected an odor consistent with combustion gases in the cooling system. The diagnosis was a suspected failed head gasket consistent with internal coolant intrusion. I then brought the vehicle to Future Ford Lincoln of Roseville, your authorized dealership, on March 12, 2026 (RO #XXX, Service Consultant [XXX] , Certified Technician [XXX] ). Future Ford verified the coolant intrusion into Cylinder 2 by removing the spark plugs and performing a borescope inspection. The dealership’s own technician referenced TSB 22-2322 and recommended either a short block replacement ($9,396.45) or a long block replacement ($13,331.01). The dealership confirmed that my vehicle has no remaining warranty coverage and offered no assistance beyond the paid repair estimate. Ford’s Documented Knowledge of This Defect Ford Motor Company has long been aware that the 1.5L EcoBoost engine in 2017–2019 Escape vehicles suffers from a structural design defect in the engine block’s cooling passages that causes coolant to intrude into the cylinders. Ford’s own actions confirm this knowledge. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Vehicle: 2018 Ford Escape SE, 1.5L EcoBoost, 130,000 miles Problem: Coolant intrusion into cylinder 2 has caused engine misfires, rough starting, check engine light, and the engine now requires replacement. Circumstances: The failure occurred suddenly. The vehicle was properly maintained and regularly serviced. Safety concern: Coolant intrusion can lead to sudden engine stall and loss of power, creating a risk while driving. Additional info: Diagnosed by an independent mechanic; engine replacement recommended. This appears consistent with a known defect in this engine type.

I am reporting a confirmed safety defect in my 2018 Ford Escape equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine involving engine coolant intrusion into the cylinder bores. This appears to be a manufacturing defect associated with this engine design rather than a maintenance issue. I have exercised proper diligence as the vehicle owner and have two prior inspection reports (available upon request) that showed no indication of this issue before the failure occurred. I have a formal written diagnosis from a Ford Service Center confirming internal engine failure consistent with Ford Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 22-2229. This defect allows engine coolant to leak into the cylinder bores, which can lead to misfires, overheating, severe internal engine damage, and eventual engine stalling or complete loss of engine power. This condition presents a serious safety hazard because it can cause sudden and unpredictable loss of engine power while the vehicle is in motion, including at highway speeds. A sudden stall in traffic significantly increases the risk of a crash and endangers the driver, passengers, and surrounding motorists. Ford’s Customer Satisfaction Program 21N12 does not adequately address the severity of this defect. All these vehicles like mine even at only 101,000 miles are at risk with no warnings. Numerous owners have reported the same coolant intrusion failure in vehicles equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine, suggesting a systemic manufacturing issue. There are also ongoing consumer complaints and civil litigation related to this defect. Because this issue has the potential to cause sudden loss of power without warning, I respectfully request your Administration investigate this defect and consider a mandatory safety recall to protect the entire public. Thank you.

Check engine light came on last week. Took it into the repair shop and they let me know that there is coolant in the first cylinder. There is not a recall for this but it is a known issue with Ford escapes designs and that Ford has redesigned the engine block and gasket, and in some cases, they are replacing the entire long block.

My 2018 Ford Escape has experienced coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, a known issue affecting this model year. The vehicle began misfiring and consuming coolant without external leaks. The dealership confirmed the diagnostic, a Technical Service Bulletin applies to my VIN. This defect can cause engine failure while driving, creating a serious safety risk. I am experiencing coolant loss, smoke and excessive shaking. Just paid my car off and got title last week. Only 130,000 miles. Ford will not help pay for repairs. Ford needs to be responsible for this and pay for this fix! It is a know defect!!! .Safety Risks • Loss of power while driving • Risk of engine stall • Overheating risk • Highway safety concern

The component that is failing in my vehicle is the engine, specifically the 1.5L EcoBoost engine short block, which is experiencing coolant intrusion into the cylinders. This defect causes misfires, rough running, loss of coolant without visible leaks, and can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The car and all its components are available for inspection upon request. My safety, my child's safety, as well as the safety of others on the road, has been put at risk because this engine defect can cause sudden misfires, loss of power, or complete engine failure while driving. I rely on this vehicle to transport my special needs toddler to and from essential care appointments and therapies. I have experienced sudden intermittent powertrain loss that has resulted in the vehicle randomly stopping on highway. A local auto shop diagnosed the issue free of charge. It was explained to me that this is a known defect that Ford has documented, and other owners have reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, demonstrating that it is reproducible in vehicles with this engine type. My vehicle has not been inspected by Ford for repair coverage, nor have police or insurance representatives been involved. Ford has reviewed my VIN internally but refused coverage based on a narrow eligibility range, leaving me responsible for repair costs that are financially burdensome and urgently needed for the safety and care of my child. As of now I experience random misfires, rough running, white thick smoke expelling from the exhaust, random powertrain loss, and unexplained loss of coolant. These symptoms appeared gradually but are consistent with the documented defect in other vehicles with the same engine type, model, and assembly plant, making it clear that my vehicle is affected by the same issue.

Car began making noises and overheating. Had to pay $2200 for water pump coolant thermostat timing belt etc. with the uncertainty if the engine was “blown”. Drove two days began overheating again. Has been determined that head gaskets are blown due to coolant leaking into the engine.

The engine leaked coolant into the cylinder. Bad cylinder #2 per mechanic. Engine needs replacement. This is a know problem with 2017-2109 ford 1.5L eco boost engines.

coolant intrusion requiring short block engine replacement MIL came on approximately 3 weeks ago and Ford no longer covers this repair for a known defect

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle shut off with the check engine, transmission, battery and several other unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact and her husband shifted into neutral(N) and pushed the vehicle off to the shoulder of the roadway. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was purchased, and a diagnostic test was performed. The contact was informed by the mechanic that a timing chain failure had destroyed the engine block resulting in complete engine failure. The contact was provided an estimate for a new engine. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The contact was also informed that the vehicle was out of warranty and that there were no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired and was towed back to the residence. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.

Our 2018 Ford Escape has a 1.5L Eco Boost engine that currently has coolant intrusion in all 4 cylinders per a diagnosis by a Ford dealership in Orlando, FL. All indications point to it being the result of the same known design flaw for which Ford has previously issued a recall. However, our car - built at the same plant and time period as those who were sent recall notices - did not receive a recall notice. This was confirmed by a Ford customer service representative. The faulty part is the engine block that was built at the same plant and time frame as those that were issued a recall notice for this exact reason. For whatever reason, Ford either inadvertently or intentionally failed to include this vehicle with others built at the same place and time.

2018 Ford Escape EcoBoost 1.5L experienced a coolant intrusion issue at 95000 miles. This issue was known back in 2018 when I bought the vehicle new at the Frederick Motor Company in Frederick, Maryland. No communication about this issue was communicated to me but Ford did fix the problem on later manufactured Escapes. A proper diagnosis was done at Sullivan’s in Newport, RI on 2/27/2026. Ford was not able to schedule a proper diagnosis until mid March. Coolant loss followed by a flashing check engine light was the first indication of the issue. Car is inoperable and dangerous to start up and drive. I’m asking Ford for a goodwill repair because I’m a loyal Ford customer who has properly maintained the vehicle via extended warranty maintenance warranties purchased with the vehicle back in 2018.

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to start the vehicle, and the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine, and the engine and the inner coolant system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.

The contact owned a 2018 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed flames coming from the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was parked, and the contact and the passenger exited the vehicle. The contact stated that the contact's mother was an additional occupant in the vehicle and was seated in the rear seat. The contact and the contact's mother exited the vehicle. The contact stated that within seconds, the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames. In addition, the contact stated that no warning lights were illuminated prior to the failure. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. No injuries were sustained. The contact stated that the vehicle had not been inspected. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the VIN had no recalls associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

While driving on a highway the RPMS in my 2018 Ford Escape with 88,600 miles went up high without me touching the gas because I was coasting downhill & then once I pushed the gas pedal to resume normal speed it shifted real hard into gear but would not move, it just kept coasting as cars were speeding up behind me going at least 55 MPH! I was finally able to pull over and once I put the car into park & tried to move it into a parking lot the car would not go into gear at all. The car was towed is currently at the Ford Dealer & they confirmed that the transmission needs to be replaced. The only time the warning sign/light came up on the dashboard was AFTER I tried for the last time to move the car into a safe parking area. Per the Ford service this apparently is a known issue with ford & the 6F35 transmissions & they are on back order for 4-6 weeks and Ford will not give me a loaner car.

After realizing that my issue is not isolated; I decided to report it. I have a 2018 Ford Escape SE with a 1.5L ecoboost engine. From day one, the car had a "ticking" sound - which we were told was normal. Originally, it was leased. Due to Pandemic, there was a shortage of cars. Lease was extended 4 months x 2. Repair facilities not open during most of Pandemic/ we were not working/ so the car was driven about 5 miles/ week. Maintenance has always been kept up/ oil checked. Normal use pattern/ at/ less than 10 - 15 miles per day. Repeated problems with the engine light on. Immediate service. Each time, blame placed on a sensor or valve (more than once)/ hundreds of dollars in repairs. 8/2025 in for another engine light. Mileage 34,976. Code PO496 showed second failure/ purge valve and replaced again. 11/2025, same engine light issue. Mileage 41121 miles. FIRST TIME, the oil was found to be a bit low. VVT Selenoid tests/ negative. Codes indicated problem with the engine's variable valve timing, which can be caused by a faulty VVT solenoid or actuator, worn timing chain/ belt or a bad camshaft position sensor. The OBD-II code P0012 indicated that the intake camshaft position was 'overretarded' for bank 1. Alternator drive belt was replaced/ notes showing that this included R&I of engine mount, replacement Serpentine and V-belt/ belts. On 2/16/26 noticed the "ticking" sound had become louder. The engine light NOT on. Self oil check showed no loss/confirmed. Mileage 41851. Mechanic unable to diagnose noise source. 2/19, mechanic decided valve cover should be removed/interior examined. 2/20/26, Found "worn out cam bearing cap and worn out cam metal on metal grinding due to oil starvation. Recommend replacing engine." Told that the engine had been faulty all along. Ford Motor company will not discuss repair/ engine replacement. (estimate:10K+) After reading that this is a widespread problem for consumers; I felt that a report should be filed.

Ford Escape has experienced coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, a known issue affecting this model year. The vehicle began misfiring and consuming coolant without external leaks. The dealership confirmed a Technical Service Bulletin applies to my VIN. This defect can cause engine failure while driving, creating a serious safety risk. The engine shudders so bad I cannot drive the car. I have also had to replace the transmission a few years back. It became a safety hazard. I was driving it and it wouldn't get up to speed and it was stalling on the road with traffic. This vehicle has several know issues, the cost to upkeep and constantly replace things to maintain safety is unaffordable for anyone. Children and people ride in these cars. These cars are unsafe to be on the road for those in them and around them. I still owe money on mine and can't even drive it due to its safety hazards with the engine and the coolant intrusion. I do not have a repair invoice as I decided to not drop anymore money into this car. Its unfortunate I am still paying on the loan for it.

I wife was driving the the car it went into limp mode, lights on dashboard says pull over asp. The car would not restart now mechanic is saying it needs a new motor.

While driving to work on February 16, 2026 my car started making a knocking noise and had a hard time going. At one point I was in the middle of the road and the car wouldn’t move. I had it towed to a mechanic and they said it needs a new motor. My car is a 2018, just barely 7 years old.

Coolant intrusion. Engine has a known problem and it happened to my car.

My 2018 Ford Escape has experienced coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, a known issue affecting this model year. The vehicle began misfiring and consuming coolant without external leaks. This is an engine defect Ford has known about since 2010, yet they continued to put this engine into their cars. I had bought this car less then a year ago, it had been in the shop more then I have had it. It is constantly overheating. The most recent time I was driving my son to school my exhaust was smoking really bad and everything seemed to be ruining smoothly the day before when I drove it the auto shop I have been taking it to they had spent 2 weeks researching what was wrong with it they told me I needed my whole engine replaced. Im a single mom amd I need answers.. I look up my Vin in the recalls and its stating 0 results but that cant be possible if I have had been same issue as others my eco start and stop dont work and my passager in the front cant roll window down

1. Vehicle Information • 2018 Ford Escape ECOSYSTEM 1.5 • 84,000 • VIN [XXX] . Problem Description : My 2018 Ford Escape has experienced coolant intrusion into the engine cylinders, a known issue affecting this model year. The vehicle began misfiring and consuming coolant without external leaks. This is an engine defect Ford has known about since 2010, yet they continued to put this engine into their cars. It is also the subject of at least one class action lawsuit. Common Issue: Many 2017–2019 1.5L engines suffer from coolant leaks into the cylinders, necessitating a replacement with a redesigned block.The dealership confirmed a Technical Service Bulletin applies to my VIN. This defect can cause engine failure while driving, creating a serious safety risk. Safety Risk: • Loss of power while driving • Risk of engine stall • Overheating risk • Highway safety concern INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Took car into local repair shop (HARLAN AUTO 650 W Main Street, Canfield, Ohio 44406. phone 330-506-1737.) for normal maintenance. 02/12/26 Odometer 65033. Previous maintenance 10/28/25 odometer 61335. Performed vehicle inspection, oil change and tire rotation. Harlan discovered no antifreeze, coolant in reservoir. I authorized them to perform a pressure test lasting several hours. Test revealed evidence of damage to spark plugs, cylinder walls and cracks in cylinder walls. Revealing major damage to ngine resulting in imminent failure. Harlan says short block replacement is necessary for repair. i authorized them to repair car based on value of the rest of the vehicle which they claimed it to be in very good condition. Totals for repair are as follows: labor $4790.07, parts $2501.78, tax $546.89, non-taxable nonjob supplies $29.49. GRAND TOTAL $ 7868.23. Engine failure could result in fire or being stranded on the road. There were no vehicle warning signs. i would like to be reimbursed for this repair by FORD .