73 of the
2,449 complaints filed about the Ford Ecosport
are about the braking system —
3% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2018.
Safety Recall 23S64 was completed on my 2021 Ford EcoSport on approx. Oct 19, 2025. After ~15,000 miles, the same system failed again on [XXX], causing loss of power and loss of braking assist. Fredericktown Pettus Ford diagnosed shredded timing belt material, drained the oil, and removed the catalytic converter (placed in trunk). They were respectful and tried to order a replacement engine, but Ford Motor Co. blocked their access to the system. The vehicle has now been out of service for over 3 months, and we have paid for two ~100‑mile tows because Ford refused to authorize repairs or provide a loaner/rental after a second engine failure. On June 18 the car was towed to Bommarito Ford, who falsely accused us of “destroying the car” and removing the catalytic converter, despite written confirmation from Pettus Ford that THEY removed it during diagnosis. Bommarito refused recall work, claimed the car was “out of warranty,” and ordered us to remove it from their lot or face storage fees. Ford Corporate opened cases [XXX] and [XXX]. The second rep was rude, accusatory, did not return calls, and repeated false claims. Ford denied coverage using a 12k‑mile parts warranty, even though this is a federal safety recall. Ford Corporate also misidentified the owner and listed my vehicle incorrectly as a “Ford Edge.” After notifying Ford Executive Office, Tier 2, the Missouri Attorney General, and legal counsel, Pettus Ford’s access to Ford’s system was suddenly restored. Pettus Ford continued to help, but Ford still refused to authorize the repair. We have now towed the car back to Pettus Ford in Fredericktown, MO. We have been without a vehicle for nearly 4 months and have spent significant time and money on towing. Ford only began to respond after the Missouri Attorney General complaint and after Ford Corporate threatened legal action instead of providing assistance. Pettus Ford has been the only party acting professionally throughout this:INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C
NHTSA complaint #11746512 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fuel injectors, hand brake when reversing, spuddering when push on gas, windshield crack when cleaning from the inside accidently hit rear view mirror.
NHTSA complaint #11745387 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system failed, preventing the vehicle from stopping properly. The vehicle is currently at a tow yard and is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Because the brakes failed, I was unable to stop at a traffic light. The vehicle entered oncoming traffic and was involved in a collision, placing my safety and the safety of other motorists at risk. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No. I previously took the vehicle to the dealership several times for misfire and powertrain-related issues. The dealership was unable to identify the underlying problem and advised that the spark plugs were not tightened properly. Similar issues have occurred multiple times over the past few years. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle is currently at a tow yard and is awaiting inspection by the insurance company. Additional inspections may be conducted as part of the claim investigation. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes. Warning lights appeared earlier this week, and I brought the vehicle to the dealership for diagnosis. The dealership was unable to determine the cause of the warnings. I picked up the vehicle on June 11, 2026. On June 12, 2026, the brakes failed, resulting in the accident.
NHTSA complaint #11743832 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owned a 2021 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25-30 MPH, the vehicle ahead applied the brakes. The contact then depressed the brake pedal; however, the brakes were inoperable, causing the vehicle to rear-end the vehicle in front. The contact further stated that the parking brake was applied but was also inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle sustained front-end damage, including impact to the center of the bumper, radiator damage, and hood intrusion into the engine compartment. The other vehicle sustained damage to the trunk and rear bumper. The airbags did not deploy, and no warning light illuminated before or during the incident. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence and was later towed to a junk yard. The vehicle was deemed a total loss by the insurance company. No injuries were reported. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The Ford App indicated that during and after the crash, the app alerted that there was an issue with the vehicle; however, it could not be tested since the vehicle was totaled due to the failure not being covered by the manufacturer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 98,000.
NHTSA complaint #11743445 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Ford EcoSport 1.0L EcoBoost engine began making loud noise consistent with oil pressure failure. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership. The dealership performed a teardown and confirmed the oil pump belt tensioner had failed — the exact defect described in Safety Recall 23S64. The dealer replaced the oil pump belt, tensioner, and oil pump under Recall 23S64. However, the dealer then stated that the resulting engine damage — severe scoring of connecting rod bearings and crankshaft journals caused by oil starvation — is “not related to the recall” and refused to replace the engine under Recall 23S64. Ford’s own recall documentation states: if engine failure is related to a broken oil pump belt or tensioner, a long block engine replacement is authorized as an interim repair at no charge. The updated Service Action also states the oil pump belt and tensioner no longer need to be replaced before long block installation. The causal chain is direct: tensioner failed (recall defect) → oil pressure lost → engine destroyed. The dealer’s refusal to replace the engine appears to violate Ford’s own Recall 23S64 service procedure. The vehicle has been inoperable for weeks. I continue making monthly loan and insurance payments on a vehicle I cannot drive. My extended warranty claim was also denied because the warranty company requires written confirmation from Ford that the engine damage is not recall-related — a document the dealer says they cannot provide. I am requesting NHTSA to investigate whether Ford dealers are systematically denying recall-related engine replacements under 23S64 that they are obligated to perform per Ford’s own recall service procedures. Additionally, prior to the complete engine failure, the vehicle stalled unexpectedly while stopped at a red light in active traffic without any warning. The engine shut off suddenly, consistent with sudden loss of oil pressure caused by the recall defect. This created a dangerous safety situation
NHTSA complaint #11733795 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Iwe were on freeway 70 mph and then the motor lost power with a a semi behind us our motor went to 20mph this suv is dangerous unfixable and I should get a new car and money back this car has almost gotten us killed 4 times now,I've given Ford 3 different chances to fix it,they can't they are putting on the same parts our son is so scared he won't get in the car at all,we have made Ford aware of this issue many times I'm paying 480.00 a month to drive a death trap,Ford should have to replace this car it was at buckeye Ford for like almost five months, coughlin Ford for almost 2 months and Ford should be giving me a loaner right now I'm waiting on 10tv to get back
NHTSA complaint #11732031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2018 eco sport , 1 L engine . Bought this car 2 years ago(April 2024) used (58xxx) miles from Corwin Honda in Fargo nd and test drove and asked about the car . Asked if safe for my family , recalls ,history ..they said no issues ,recalls or crashes . All were untrue we are just finding out . I was driving imin the dark and suddenly,no warning etc my car says low engine oil pressure . I had kids in the car, on the highway (80mph) when my car suddenly stops at not exactly a slow decline . It is dark , it’s a long high way. Luckily we made it home . But now the dealership I hit it from and Luther family ford of Fargo nd do NOT WANT TO TOUCH MY CAR. Ford company said they have reached out to Luther to tell them to tow my car and inspect etc but Luther ford keeps hanging up in them . We owe 12k still on this car and insurance. We can’t not drive it, I have to uber and use DoorDash . My hubby goes out of town for work and I work night shift so we can not use his beater of a work car. We also scheduled roadside assistance today for 330pm and THEY DID NOT COME TO GET THE CAR. I rescheduled again for the am and hopefully so but I feel they black listed my vin or any recalls with this car. It is unsafe to drive , their is no replacements thought they keep promising year after year I have read . It’s is stressful, it is unsafe and it is wrong to leave ppl hanging when I am doing all I can on my part . We can’t not afford a car payment on a broken car that is dangerous and doesn’t drive . Where is our rights? Who cares about my safety? MY KIDS SAFETY? That night on the highway ? Thankfully a lady in a truck helped us get home . This is so cruel
NHTSA complaint #11723753 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
As I pulled into my driveway, my brakes locked up resulting in my vehicle only coming to a stop because it crashed into another vehicle in my driveway. It is still in my driveway, the function of breaking has not been reproduced. The car will not even start now. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealer, an independent service center, or anyone else. I will be contacting my insurance today. A police report was not made as no one was at fault. There were no warning lamps or messages displayed. I did receive a letter this week from Brian Leonard, a service Manager at Price Ford Simi Valley regarding recall 23S64. The letter notified me of the new recall, that their business will "pick up and deliver my vehicle, provide me a loaner vehicle, and complete the recall repairs for me". I received this letter the day before the brake failure. The morning after the brakes failed causing the crash, I contacted Mr. Leonard who told me they will now not fix any of the issues or comply with any part of the letter, that I should file a claim with my insurance and take the car to a Ford dealership in Turlock. This was communication was all via email and Simi Valley Ford has now ended communication with me. This car was purchased brand new and I have had nothing but issues and recalls with it. Additionally while driving it 3 weeks ago on [XXX] , the car lost all power. I pulled over to the side of the road and sat for about 10 minutes debating what to do. I attempted to restart the vehicle, it started and I was able to complete my drive home with no warning or indicator lights appearing. This car is a lemon! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11722572 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I have had to put a new engine in my 2019 ford ecosport 3 times due to the open recall on the vehicle. It is currently at the ford dealership due to coolant leaking into the head gasket. The problems with the vehicle have been confirmed by the dealers. And no there were ZERO warnings or signs before the vehicle completely failed on us on the highway the first time. Then the same issue happened yet again and had to put my car in the shop again for another new engine due to the recall.
NHTSA complaint #11722109 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle’s engine losses power while driving. Low oil pump pressure appears on the dashboard. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer. There were no warning lamps prior to the failure. The problems started February 2026.
NHTSA complaint #11721481 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving toward the freeway on January 16, 2026, I pressed my brakes and the vehicle failed to slow or stop. Instead, the vehicle accelerated. I reacted quickly to avoid a head-on collision but was involved in a crash. When pressing on my brakes there were audible sounds from from my hood. As if my car wanted to stop but wouldn’t. My engine previously failed for the same reason. When the second and third decal came out I called my local dealership. After my last oil change my car began to show show signs of concern. I emails and called the dealership, I brought my car in however they had no one to work on my car and wouldn’t offer a rental. Told me as long as my car is drivable I’ll be fine. This vehicle has an open recall related to engine/performance defects. History includes: Complete engine failure in 2024 (vehicle retained for two months). Recurring symptoms reported to dealership. Check engine light illuminated; dealership advised vehicle was safe to drive. Vehicle retained again without repair completion. No technician availability; recall repair not completed before crash. I relied on dealership assurances that the vehicle was safe. This defect creates a serious risk of unintended acceleration and loss of braking control. I am concerned other drivers may face similar danger. I am requesting investigation into recall effectiveness and manufacturer handling of repair delays.
NHTSA complaint #11719250 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I received the recall Notice 23S64/NHTSA23V905 from the dealership where I purchased my Ford Ecosport in August 2025. I called the dealership to schedule the repair on August 28, 2025. I spoke with Brandon from the service dept. He told me that they would need the car for two weeks to even determine IF the part in my vehicle indeed needed to be replaced and then, if so, they would have to see if the part was available to them and then they could fix it free of charge. He said they could not give me a loaner car during the two week inspection period. And only could offer a loaner car if the part did need to be replaced. Leaving me without a vehicle for at least two weeks. I work and needed transportation for my commute. The issue was at no fault of my own. He also stated that it was not a big deal and the worst that could happen if the part was defective was that the car would just stall. I called back in September if 2025 and was told they still did not have the part available to them. The notice said there was no order to stop driving the car. However, about the time I received the 2nd notice to have the recall service scheduled immediately. My car began showing signs of engine problems. It has been at the dealership since Jan 20th. I was told they have no loaner vehicle. I am without a car due to this repair. I called moments ago and was told the damage to the car was extensive due to the recall part the engine will have to be replaced and they are waiting on parts. I again asked for a loaner vehicle. I was told again, they did not have any to offer me. But said that it’s be a few weeks before my car was repaired! Again, this is by no fault of my own. The car was purchased, paid for entirely. And it is my only means of transportation to ensure a way to work. The recall letter plainly states the dealer has been authorized to give me a loaner vehicle while the repairs related to the recall are being completed. The service manager said it is recall
NHTSA complaint #11713999 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On July 9th, 2025, our car's engine failed. It was discovered that it was due to the safety recall 23S64 (Engine Oil Pump Failure). We were ill advised by Ford motor company customer relations specialist and ended up paying almost 1,000 for a rental car that should have been covered by the recall. We waited almost 5 months, to receive the car back fixed. It took us begging for the car to be shipped back to our home dealership in Cleveland TN, for the car to finally be fixed. The car sat at the dealership in Ripley, WV for 5 months. Bad customer service issues as well as no parts available.
NHTSA complaint #11711623 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The failure involves the engine/powertrain system, specifically the engine oil pressure system, resulting in loss of engine power and a subsequent loss of effective braking assistance. The vehicle displayed a low engine oil pressure warning and a “powertrain system fault” message prior to the loss of braking effectiveness. The vehicle is currently not being driven and is available for inspection upon request. The engine was previously replaced in April 2025 as part of a recall-related interim remedy following an engine failure, yet the same symptoms have since reoccurred. My safety and the safety of others were placed at immediate and severe risk. On December 26, 2025, while driving at highway speed in heavy rain, the vehicle rapidly decelerated from approximately 79 mph to 60 mph, creating a dangerous situation in active freeway traffic. After exiting the freeway, the risk escalated when the vehicle experienced a loss of effective braking. While entering my apartment complex, I was forced to engage in defensive driving to avoid a collision. I narrowly avoided striking a pedestrian who was exiting their vehicle and then had to defensively steer away from the front of my apartment building to avoid crashing into the structure because the vehicle would not stop. A serious injury or fatality to myself or others was narrowly avoided. Yes. In March 2025, after experiencing a serious loss of power while driving, the vehicle was towed to a Ford dealership. The vehicle remained there for approximately one month, during which time the engine failure was confirmed and attributed to an active recall. As a result, the engine was replaced under the recall. This confirms that the issue has been previously verified by an authorized Ford dealership. Despite this repair, the same failure symptoms have reoccurred. The vehicle has been inspected and serviced by an authorized Ford dealership in connection with the recall-related engine failure and replacement in March–April 2025.
NHTSA complaint #11707328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle is not running and was at the dealership for recall and dealership said that ford denied claim and ford said dealership denied claim. Dealership said it’s something from oil and that it’s not issue from recall however all problems and issues fall within the recall damage. I called ford and they said the dealership are the ones who denied it. They also caused and did more damage to the vehicle in process. Doesn’t make any sense new engine was put in 2 yrs 20,000 miles ago. Also paperwork from dealership actually states that the outside of the oil pump belt looked to be in rough shape!! Which is the recall!!!
NHTSA complaint #11706850 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was driving and all of a sudden I received a low oil pressure alert on my care and within a min my car lost all power and was completely unable to accelerate. It is currently in the shop and they said it will be months before it is repaired.
NHTSA complaint #11684603 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2020 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The vehicle was driven to a nearby independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and several unknown DTCs were retrieved. The vehicle remained with an independent mechanic. The vehicle was then towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the failure was linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced at the dealer six days prior to the failure. The contact stated that the failure occurred while the contact was traveling out of town. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
NHTSA complaint #11678540 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My vehicle was identified as part of the safety recall in 2023. In 2024 my car started struggling and the low engine oil pressure warning started showing on my dash. The check engine light and service soon indicator lights started showing on the dash as well. The car was just past 71,000mi. When I purchased the car it was at about 60,000mi. Since the issues seemed related to the recall I went to a Ford dealer. My car was checked with the dealer and I was given a loaner vehicle. I was told that my car’s engine needed to be replaced. I drove a loaner car from September 2024 to April 2025 as my car waited for an engine to be sent to my dealer. Once the engine was replaced I was told that I also would have to purchase a battery since my car hadn’t been driven for so long. I now have my car returned to me but I am nervous to drive it with the same recall issue still outstanding. Parts for the recall remedy were announced to be available by the end of the first quarter of 2025 but they are not. There is also not any updates to when parts will be available.
NHTSA complaint #11655551 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I had a recall for my 2018 Ford EcoSport vehicle. while driving my vehicle the car just lost power and stopped. I was in the middle of the road when this happened, I tried to make it to the side as best as i could. The car was not drivable so i had to call a tow truck. I did know there was a recall, but was never told what, nor that it could cause engine failiure and possibly a crash. My safety was put at risk, this car should have been placed on a STOP SALE as this could have been more serious. My engine had to be replace however; now the transmission and torque converter are bad, i feel this is due to the engine seizing up and it affected the transmission. I am told i have to pay for this to be fixed now, how is this even happening. I have driven this vehicle for 4 months out of 6. My engine light came on and then the care just stopped working, i had little to no warning. I don't even want this car now as i am scare more will go wrong with it. THIS SHOULD HAVE NOT BEEN SOLD WITHOUT THE RECALL OF AN ENGINE BEING FIXED FIRST. THIS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A HORRIBLE ACCIDENT, THANK GOD IT DIDNT. PLEASE HELP!!!!!! I have no documents yet as I was told they would email them hours ago and still nothing. The only reason i knew about the STOP SALE, was the sales person stated that it should have had this on the vehicle and he is not sure why it didn't.
NHTSA complaint #11655002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
1)the engine is malfunctioning and its available for inspection 2)In the middle of the night on the highway alone I wasn't sure if my car was going to completely stop on me while driving and cause a wreak 3)About two months ago it was confirmed that I had a recall through the dealership, and it was supposed of have been repaired during that time but wasn't complete. 4)It was inspected two months ago by ford dealership 5)Yes ! the car was making a weird noise driving and engine was vibrating. I stopped at AutoZone and they plugged it up and it read the Anti braking system results said failure
NHTSA complaint #11653414 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.