2020 Ford Escape Problems: Body / frame (1,889 Complaints)

The most-reported problem on the 2020 Ford Escape is Body / frame (37% of 1,889 owner reports). There are 25 safety recalls. Check the VIN and inspect Body / frame — this is the NHTSA file, not a score.

NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation Snapshot 2026-10-15 1,889 complaints · 25 recalls

What problems show up on the 2020 Ford Escape?

696 of 1,889 filings named Body / frame (37% of the file). That is what owners wrote, not a shop diagnosis of the vehicle in the driveway.

Second is Transmission / driveline (194 reports).

There are 25 official safety recalls on this year. They were filed about Airbags, Transmission / driveline, Rear camera / backup safety, Electrical, Engine, Fuel system, Brakes, Body / frame, and Glass / wipers / cameras. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov — a campaign on this page can still be open on a specific truck.

The 2019 has 587 reports on file; this year has 1,889. Older years collect more reports just by being on the road longer. If you need a fairer comparison, use the equal-time view.

What to check before you buy a 2020 Ford Escape

A useful visit to this page takes five minutes. YearTell does not score years and cannot see the vehicle in front of you.

  1. Look up the VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov. This year has 25 campaigns on file below.
  2. Body / frame. Look for rust, collision repair and body gaps that do not match a clean truck.
  3. Transmission / driveline. Have a shop drive it and check the transmission: hard or delayed shifts, burnt-smelling fluid, and 4WD engagement if equipped.
  4. Fuel system. Check for fuel smell, leaks and whether it starts and idles cleanly.
  5. Skim a few owner reports below for Body / frame. Look for the same symptom repeating.
  6. Take that list to a mechanic. Do not turn the complaint total into a score.

What owners reported

System named most often: Body / frame 696 complaints · 36.8% of the file
Crashes, fires, injuries and deaths in those filings:
  • Crashes 21
  • Fires 5
  • Injuries 33
  • Deaths 0
All Ford Escape years →
NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record Read our complete data methodology →

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

Which systems owners named

Share of owner complaints filed against each vehicle system. These shares are not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold.

Which systems owners named Body / frame (STRUCTURE) appears in 696 of 1,889 owner complaints (36.8%) in this vehicle snapshot. Body / frame (STRUCTURE): 696 complaints, 36.8% of reports Body / frame (STRUCTURE) 696 · 36.8% Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN): 194 complaints, 10.3% of reports Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN) 3 crash reports 194 · 10.3% Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM): 146 complaints, 7.7% of reports Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM) 146 · 7.7% Engine (ENGINE): 124 complaints, 6.6% of reports Engine (ENGINE) 1 fire reports 124 · 6.6% Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM): 96 complaints, 5.1% of reports Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) 96 · 5.1% Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY): 55 complaints, 2.9% of reports Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY) 55 · 2.9% Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE): 52 complaints, 2.8% of reports Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE) 2 crash reports 52 · 2.8% Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES): 33 complaints, 1.8% of reports Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES) 2 crash reports 33 · 1.8% Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION): 20 complaints, 1.1% of reports Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION) 20 · 1.1% Unclassified NHTSA leftover: 1,256 complaints, 66.5% of reports Unclassified NHTSA leftover 6 crash reports 4 fire reports 1,256 · 66.5% 0% 25% 50% 75% 100%

“Unclassified NHTSA leftover” is not a car part. It is a filing bucket and always sits last.

View component data as a table
System / Component Complaints Share of Reports Safety Reports (Crashes / Fires)
Body / frame (STRUCTURE) 696 36.8% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN) 194 10.3% 3 crashes · 0 fires
Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM) 146 7.7% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Engine (ENGINE) 124 6.6% 0 crashes · 1 fires
Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) 96 5.1% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY) 55 2.9% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Automatic braking / collision warning (FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE) 52 2.8% 2 crashes · 0 fires
Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES) 33 1.8% 2 crashes · 0 fires
Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION) 20 1.1% 0 crashes · 0 fires
Unclassified NHTSA leftover 1,256 66.5% 6 crashes · 4 fires
NHTSA Consumer Complaints, NHTSA Safety Recalls, and NHTSA Defect Investigations Snapshot 2026-10-15 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

When reports and recalls showed up

When owners filed reports, and when recall campaigns showed up.

When reports and recalls showed up Owner reports in this snapshot begin in Oct 2019; the first recall shown was reported in Aug 2019. 2019-Q4: 1 owner reports 1 2020-Q1: 8 owner reports 8 2020-Q2: 7 owner reports 7 2020-Q3: 18 owner reports 18 2020-Q4: 21 owner reports 21 2021-Q1: 16 owner reports 16 2021-Q2: 16 owner reports 16 2021-Q3: 20 owner reports 20 2021-Q4: 15 owner reports 15 2022-Q1: 13 owner reports 13 2022-Q2: 16 owner reports 16 2022-Q3: 22 owner reports 22 2022-Q4: 23 owner reports 23 2023-Q1: 65 owner reports 65 2023-Q2: 99 owner reports 99 2023-Q3: 260 owner reports 260 2023-Q4: 255 owner reports 255 2024-Q1: 247 owner reports 247 2024-Q2: 127 owner reports 127 2024-Q3: 78 owner reports 78 2024-Q4: 50 owner reports 50 2025-Q1: 57 owner reports 57 2025-Q2: 70 owner reports 70 2025-Q3: 98 owner reports 98 2025-Q4: 70 owner reports 70 2026-Q1: 60 owner reports 60 2026-Q2: 78 owner reports 78 2026-Q3: 77 owner reports 77 2026-Q4: 2 owner reports 2 Owner reports Aug 2019 Oct 2026 Recall campaign 19V633000 ◆ Recall campaign 19V633000 Recall campaign 20V415000 ◆ Recall campaign 20V415000 Recall campaign 20V550000 ◆ Recall campaign 20V550000 Recall campaign 20V575000 ◆ Recall campaign 20V575000 Recall campaign 20V635000 ◆ Recall campaign 20V635000 Recall campaign 21V011000 ◆ Recall campaign 21V011000 Recall campaign 22V191000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V191000 Recall campaign 22V331000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V331000 Recall campaign 22V484000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V484000 Recall campaign 22V859000 ◆ Recall campaign 22V859000 Recall campaign 23V380000 ◆ Recall campaign 23V380000 Recall campaign 24V330000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V330000 Recall campaign 24V852000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V852000 Recall campaign 24V954000 ◆ Recall campaign 24V954000 Recall campaign 25V165000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V165000 Recall campaign 25V345000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V345000 Recall campaign 25V442000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V442000 Recall campaign 25V467000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V467000 Recall campaign 25V685000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V685000 Recall campaign 25V693000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V693000 Recall campaign 25V789000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V789000 Recall campaign 25V829000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V829000 Recall campaign 25V881000 ◆ Recall campaign 25V881000 Recall campaign 26V117000 ◆ Recall campaign 26V117000 Recall campaign 26V123000 ◆ Recall campaign 26V123000 Investigation RQ21002 ● Investigation RQ21002 Investigation DP22005 ● Investigation DP22005 Investigation PE23013 ● Investigation PE23013 Investigation PE23013 ● Investigation PE23013
  • Campaign 20V550000 was reported 233 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 20V635000 was reported 265 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 21V011000 was reported 360 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V191000 was reported 751 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V331000 was reported 840 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 22V859000 was reported 738 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V330000 was reported 1,571 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V852000 was reported 1,805 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 24V954000 was reported 1,792 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V165000 was reported 1,585 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V442000 was reported 1,631 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V467000 was reported 1,704 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V685000 was reported 2,141 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V693000 was reported 1,493 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V789000 was reported 2,121 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V829000 was reported 1,985 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 25V881000 was reported 2,158 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 26V117000 was reported 2,209 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
  • Campaign 26V123000 was reported 1,880 days after the first earlier complaint mapped to its component.
View timeline records as a table
Date Record type Count Record identifier
2019-Q4 Owner reports 1
2020-Q1 Owner reports 8
2020-Q2 Owner reports 7
2020-Q3 Owner reports 18
2020-Q4 Owner reports 21
2021-Q1 Owner reports 16
2021-Q2 Owner reports 16
2021-Q3 Owner reports 20
2021-Q4 Owner reports 15
2022-Q1 Owner reports 13
2022-Q2 Owner reports 16
2022-Q3 Owner reports 22
2022-Q4 Owner reports 23
2023-Q1 Owner reports 65
2023-Q2 Owner reports 99
2023-Q3 Owner reports 260
2023-Q4 Owner reports 255
2024-Q1 Owner reports 247
2024-Q2 Owner reports 127
2024-Q3 Owner reports 78
2024-Q4 Owner reports 50
2025-Q1 Owner reports 57
2025-Q2 Owner reports 70
2025-Q3 Owner reports 98
2025-Q4 Owner reports 70
2026-Q1 Owner reports 60
2026-Q2 Owner reports 78
2026-Q3 Owner reports 77
2026-Q4 Owner reports 2
Recall campaign 1 19V633000
Recall campaign 1 20V415000
Recall campaign 1 20V550000
Recall campaign 1 20V575000
Recall campaign 1 20V635000
Recall campaign 1 21V011000
Recall campaign 1 22V191000
Recall campaign 1 22V331000
Recall campaign 1 22V484000
Recall campaign 1 22V859000
Recall campaign 1 23V380000
Recall campaign 1 24V330000
Recall campaign 1 24V852000
Recall campaign 1 24V954000
Recall campaign 1 25V165000
Recall campaign 1 25V345000
Recall campaign 1 25V442000
Recall campaign 1 25V467000
Recall campaign 1 25V685000
Recall campaign 1 25V693000
Recall campaign 1 25V789000
Recall campaign 1 25V829000
Recall campaign 1 25V881000
Recall campaign 1 26V117000
Recall campaign 1 26V123000
Defect investigation 1 RQ21002
Defect investigation 1 DP22005
Defect investigation 1 PE23013
Defect investigation 1 PE23013
NHTSA Safety Recalls Snapshot 2026-10-15 Open source record

Safety Recalls (25)

Official campaigns. Each one says what could go wrong and what the dealer was told to fix.

In short, these campaigns were filed about Airbags, Transmission / driveline, Rear camera / backup safety, Electrical, Engine, Fuel system, Brakes, Body / frame, and Glass / wipers / cameras.

  1. Recall campaign 19V633000

    Safety recall 19V633000

    Report date
    Component:
    Unclassified NHTSA leftover
    Consequence:
    A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  2. Recall campaign 20V415000

    Airbags

    Report date
    Component:
    Airbags (AIR BAGS)
    Consequence:
    In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag modules, free of charge. An interim letter notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed August 3, 2020. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S35.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  3. Recall campaign 20V550000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    Missing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may progress to a loss of transmission function. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the start/stop accumulator, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S49.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  4. Recall campaign 20V575000

    Rear camera / backup safety

    Report date
    Component:
    Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION)
    Consequence:
    Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  5. Recall campaign 20V635000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    Low tire pressure may lead to poor vehicle handling and a possible loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of crash.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the BCM, free of charge. Owners are advised that two key fobs are required for the repair to be completed. The recall began December 1, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S59.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  6. Recall campaign 21V011000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    If the rear drive unit seizes, there may be a loss of drive and/or a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the rear drive unit lubricant level. Axles found to have lubricant at the minimum level will be filled to the full level. Axles found to be below the minimum lubricant fill level will be replaced, free of charge. This recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S02.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  7. Recall campaign 22V191000

    Engine

    Report date
    Component:
    Engine (ENGINE)
    Consequence:
    An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 18, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S21.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  8. Recall campaign 22V331000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on July 12, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S33.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  9. Recall campaign 22V484000

    Safety recall 22V484000

    Report date
    Component:
    Not available in the source record
    Consequence:
    An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
    Remedy:
    Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will modify the under engine shield and active grille shutter, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S47.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  10. Recall campaign 22V859000

    Fuel system

    Report date
    Component:
    Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed January 9, 2023. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 1st Quarter of 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S73. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 22V-191. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-191 will need to have the new remedy performed.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  11. Recall campaign 23V380000

    Safety recall 23V380000

    Report date
    Component:
    Not available in the source record
    Consequence:
    An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
    Remedy:
    Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will replace the engine long-block in 2023 Escape and Corsair vehicles. For the other vehicles, dealers will update the powertrain control module software. If a connecting rod bearing failure is detected, dealers will replace the engine long-block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S27. This recall expands and replaces recall number 22V-484. Vehicles previously repaired under 22V-484 will need to have the new remedy completed.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  12. Recall campaign 24V330000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  13. Recall campaign 24V852000

    Safety recall 24V852000

    Report date
    Component:
    Unclassified NHTSA leftover
    Consequence:
    Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  14. Recall campaign 24V954000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update, and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 30, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S79.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  15. Recall campaign 25V165000

    Fuel system

    Report date
    Component:
    Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S21.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  16. Recall campaign 25V345000

    Safety recall 25V345000

    Report date
    Component:
    Not available in the source record
    Consequence:
    An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
    Remedy:
    Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S54.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  17. Recall campaign 25V442000

    Rear camera / backup safety

    Report date
    Component:
    Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION)
    Consequence:
    A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  18. Recall campaign 25V467000

    Fuel system

    Report date
    Component:
    Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As an interim repair, dealers will update the engine control software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed August 29, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S76. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-859, 24V187, and 25V165 will need to have the new final remedy performed once it is available.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  19. Recall campaign 25V685000

    Safety recall 25V685000

    Report date
    Component:
    Unclassified NHTSA leftover
    Consequence:
    An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  20. Recall campaign 25V693000

    Brakes

    Report date
    Component:
    Brakes (SERVICE BRAKES)
    Consequence:
    Reduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 13, 2025. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V922.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  21. Recall campaign 25V789000

    Electrical

    Report date
    Component:
    Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
    Consequence:
    Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM), free of charge. Owners are advised to only use "Auto EV" mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SC4. Vehicles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V954 and will need to have the new remedy performed. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 18, 2025.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  22. Recall campaign 25V829000

    Body / frame

    Report date
    Component:
    Body / frame (STRUCTURE)
    Consequence:
    A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will inspect and reinstall, or replace any missing liftgate hinge covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD6. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 3, 2025.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  23. Recall campaign 25V881000

    Transmission / driveline

    Report date
    Component:
    Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
    Consequence:
    A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning January 15, 2026. This is an expansion of Recalls 24V330 (24S33) and 25V133 (25S16).
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  24. Recall campaign 26V117000

    Glass / wipers / cameras

    Report date
    Component:
    Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
    Consequence:
    Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →

  25. Recall campaign 26V123000

    Rear camera / backup safety

    Report date
    Component:
    Rear camera / backup safety (BACK OVER PREVENTION)
    Consequence:
    An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Remedy:
    Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
    View authoritative NHTSA record →
NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

What owners actually wrote

Short excerpts from the public NHTSA file. Look for the same symptom repeating.

Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation · snapshot 2026-10-14
Safety incident filters
Showing 9 of 1,889 complaints · page 1 of 76
2026-10-02Glass / wipers / cameras (VISIBILITY)
NHTSA ODI 11768595
CrashFireInjuryDeath
Our 2020 Ford escape cowling is separated from the windshield. I took it to a body shop to see if they could fix it. The strip groove that connects the cowling to the windshield has separated from the glass. The only way to fix it is replace the windshield. This is a know issue with Ford cars researching. I was in recently for the windshield motor replacement warranty. I asked the service tech about it and stated not covered considered a "body issue." This is does not sit well. Is there anything that can be done. We take very good care of our car. This is cosmetic but it appears to be a known defect.
2026-10-01Fuel system (FUEL SYSTEM)Unclassified NHTSA leftover
NHTSA ODI 11768361
CrashFireInjuryDeath
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle began shuddering and nearly lost power. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for an interim repair. The contact stated that there was an abnormal rotten egg odor coming from the vehicle after the repair. The vehicle was sputtering while accelerating, and there was a delay with the engine responding. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.
2026-09-28Unclassified NHTSA leftover
NHTSA ODI 11767564
CrashFireInjuryDeath
The sunroof moulding of my 2020 Ford Escape has come loose. I can’t find any clips to restick the moulding to the sunroof. I see that others have also had this issue and for some the moulding has gone to the back of the visor housing. Luckily I took out the moulding before this happened, but I can’t place it back without new clips which are not available online.
2026-09-27VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
NHTSA ODI 11767282
CrashFireInjuryDeath
When driving, the car will shudder and jolt when shifting gears, particularly from 2nd to 3rd. It will not accelerate properly at times and has almost caused me to be rear ended when merging on highways at highway speeds. This might be tied to the transmission issues that other 2020 ford escapes are dealing with.
2026-09-25Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11766892
CrashFireInjuryDeath
I am noticing an obvious lurching while accelerating at low speeds after being stopped. It also happens when slowing down. It is happening with and without adaptive cruise control engaged. This may cause someone to rear end me if my brake lights are not activated because I am not braking. Inversely it may cause me to rear end someone in front of me
2026-09-23Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11766344
CrashFireInjuryDeath
There is a malfunction in the AWD system that gives a code for low voltage. I tracked down the issue to a factory defect where the connector to the AWD module doesn’t have a ground wire. Ford has acknowledged the issue under “Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 21B19” but it has since expired. (Expired after the vehicle was purchased) As a result of the fault, It disables AWD, hill start assist, forward collision assist.
2026-09-23Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11766311
CrashFireInjuryDeath
Vacuum pump went and replaced then rpms spiking between 1500 and 2000. Then traction control light came on and noise in from end. All within a week.
2026-09-22Transmission / driveline (POWER TRAIN)
NHTSA ODI 11766259
CrashFireInjuryDeath
Vehicle: 2020 Ford Escape I am experiencing a recurring drivability issue with my 2020 Ford Escape. During normal or light acceleration, primarily between approximately 1,000 and 2,000 RPM, the vehicle intermittently jerks, surges, or hesitates. At the same time, I can observe slight RPM fluctuation. The condition continues to occur even when the vehicle is driven in Sport mode. On some occasions, the vehicle has also accelerated suddenly and more aggressively than expected, making the vehicle’s response unpredictable. I have had situations where I nearly collided with another vehicle because of the unexpected acceleration. The vehicle has displayed diagnostic trouble code P0600 – Serial Communication Link. The ignition coils and spark plugs have already been replaced, but the condition remains unchanged. I am concerned because the hesitation, jerking, surging, and unexpected acceleration occur while the vehicle is being driven and could affect safe and predictable vehicle control in traffic. I have not yet received a final diagnosis confirming whether the cause is related to the transmission, torque converter, PCM/TCM, communication system, speed control system, or another component. I am reporting this issue so that NHTSA has a record of the condition in case other owners of 2020–2021 Ford Escape vehicles are experiencing similar drivability and unexpected acceleration problems.
2026-09-17Electrical (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM)
NHTSA ODI 11764876
CrashFireInjuryDeath
These are the failed systems since the recall was being repaired since July 27th 2026. The car is presently still at the dealer today. Sept 18 2026. Sync Screen goes black Instrument cluster goes black. Auto-hold fails Pre-collision emergency assist not available Forward camera not available Drive mode not available Powertrain Control Module fails with error to Ford App Service Engine light on at all times We have all repair times it went back total of 4 times. No replacement vehicles was provided. Here are the additional files in this link there are approximately 16 repair files 3 are Ian pictures below uploaded https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:4e092f62-ba12-4fac-888f-d529227f810a

Ford Escape Complaints by Model Year

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems on the 2020 Ford Escape?

Owners named Body / frame most often — 696 of 1,889 reports (37%). That is the NHTSA file, not a diagnosis of every vehicle.

Are there recalls for the 2020 Ford Escape?

NHTSA lists 25 safety recall campaigns. They were filed about Airbags, Transmission / driveline, Rear camera / backup safety, Electrical, Engine, Fuel system, Brakes, Body / frame, and Glass / wipers / cameras. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov; a campaign on this page can still be open on a specific vehicle.

What should I inspect before buying a 2020 Ford Escape?

Look up the VIN for open recalls. Look for rust, collision repair and body gaps that do not match a clean truck. Then skim owner filings for the same symptom and take that list to a mechanic.

Does a high complaint count mean I should skip this year?

No. Counts are reports people chose to file and they are not adjusted for sales volume. YearTell does not publish scores or a list of years to skip. Inspect the vehicle.

EPA Fuel Economy Database Snapshot 2026-10-04 Open source record

Estimated Ownership Cost

EPA fuel economy ratings and annual operating cost estimates

Data: US EPA Fuel Economy Guide · snapshot 2026-10-04
Supported range: 1,000–60,000 miles per year
Supported range: $1.50–$10.00 per gallon
55% city45% highway
Estimate unavailable

EPA fuel-economy data is unavailable for this vehicle.

No estimate is shown when required EPA values are unavailable.

 Open Ownership Cost Calculator →

Adjacent Model Years

Immediate preceding and succeeding model year records

NHTSA Consumer Complaints Snapshot 2026-10-14 Open source record

Complaint counts reflect self-selected reports and are not normalised for production sales volume. We publish no reliability scores, superlatives, or vehicle rankings.

Methodology & Data Integrity

Source: NHTSA ODI / recalls, snapshot 2026-10-14. YearTell is not a government agency.

Read our complete data methodology → Sources