Owners have filed 154 complaints
about the 2023 Ford Escape with NHTSA between 2023 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 22 of 25 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 5
Against the median year of the Ford Escape. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 40
7.8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
77% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1238.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
722.6%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
825.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
13.2%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
26.5%
150,000+ miles
13.2%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2023 Ford Escape SUV AWD
17.4% risk
2023 Ford Escape SUV FWD
16.9% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 2023peak 12Aug 2026
Recalls on the 2023 Ford Escape
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
25V372000
ENGINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Escape, and 2025 Bronco Sport vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.
Risk: An oil leak can result in loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, an oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
25V343000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2023-2025 Escape, 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2025 Lincoln Corsair, Maverick, and Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L MPC engine and an engine block heater. The engine block heater may overheat when the vehicle is parked with the block heater plugged in.
Risk: An overheated engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire.
25V345000
ENGINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2021-2023 Corsair, and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V380. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
25V315000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco, F-150, 2021-2024 Edge, 2022-2025 Escape, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, 2021-2023 Mach-E, 2024 Ranger, Mustang, 2021-2023 Lincoln Nautilus, 2022-2024 Navigator, and 2023-2024 Corsair vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to delay, freeze, or not display when the vehicle is in reverse.
Risk: A frozen or missing rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
24V954000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Risk: 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.
24V852000
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: 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.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2023-2024 Escape, 2024 Mustang, and 2025 Explorer vehicles. The fuel injectors may have been assembled without O-ring support discs, which can result in a fuel leak.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
24V440000
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Escape two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control. The cruise control radar module was misaligned during production.
Risk: Misalignment of the radar module can result in the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) misclassifying an overhead object as an object in the vehicle's path, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly slow and/or stop. Other safety systems that depend on the radar model (Pre-Collision Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Auto Emergency Braking) could have diminished or lost function. These conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202607022,955 units in Canada
High Voltage
Issue: On certain vehicles, the software update installed by a Ford dealer during recall 24S79 (Transport Canada recall no. 2024-781) may not be effective. As a result, a second repair is required. On certain vehicles, a problem inside the high-voltage battery could cause a short circuit. If this happens, there could be a loss of power to the wheels and/or the high-voltage battery could overheat. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall no. 2025-628. This recall only affects certain plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) equipped with a 2.5 L engine. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. A battery that overheats can create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, Ford advises that you set the maximum charge setting of your vehicle at 80% and to only use normal EV mode until the recall repairs have been completed. Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the battery energy control module (BECM) and hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM) software. The BECM software will monitor the high-voltage battery and warn you if it detects a problem. If you see this warning, you should contact a dealership to arrange replacement of the high-voltage battery pack.
Recall 20256288,751 units in Canada
High Voltage
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada recall no. 2026-070. Issue: On certain vehicles, the software update installed by a Ford dealer during recall 24S79 (Transport Canada recall no. 2024-781) may not be effective. As a result, a second repair is required. On certain vehicles, a problem inside the high-voltage battery could cause a short circuit. If this happens, there could be a loss of power to the wheels and/or the high-voltage battery could overheat. Note: This recall only affects certain plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) equipped with a 2.5 L engine. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. A battery that overheats can create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, Ford advises not to charge your vehicle until the recall repairs have been completed. Ford will notify owners by mail. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.
Recall 202530641 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles, the cylinder head may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the cylinder head plug(s) could fail. If this happens, engine oil could leak and cause a loss of power to the wheels. Note: This recall only affects certain vehicles equipped with a 1.5 L engine. This recall could also affect certain cylinder heads sold at dealerships as a replacement part. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. Oil that leaks onto hot components can create the risk of a fire. Additionally, an oil leak could create a hazard for others and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Action: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the cylinder head.
Recall 202528140,428 units in Canada
Engine
Issue: On certain vehicles, the engine block heater could overheat when the block heater is plugged in. Note: This recall only affects certain vehicles equipped with a 1.5 L or 2.0 L engine and a factory-installed block heater. Safety Risk: An engine block heater and/or wiring that overheats or melts could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, Ford advises you not to plug in the engine block heater until the recall repairs have been completed. Ford will notify owners by mail. You can choose to have the dealer remove the block heater, or once the final repair is available, Ford will send you another notice to advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the block heater element. The dealer will also inspect and, if necessary, replace the block heater electrical cord.
Recall 2025260159,135 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles, a software problem could cause the rearview camera image not to display or to freeze when the transmission is shifted into reverse. Safety Risk: A rearview camera image that doesn't display correctly could reduce a driver's ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up. This could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and send a wireless over-the-air software update to eligible vehicles to update the SYNC software. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment to have the update performed at a Ford dealership.
Recall 20247818,825 units in Canada
High Voltage
Issue: On certain vehicles, a problem inside the high-voltage battery could cause a short circuit. If this happens, there could be a loss of power to the wheels and/or the high-voltage battery could overheat. Note: This recall only affects certain plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) equipped with a 2.5 L engine. Safety Risk: A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. A battery that overheats can create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, Ford advises not to charge your vehicle until the recall repairs have been completed. Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the battery energy control module (BECM) software. The software will monitor the high-voltage battery and warn you if it detects a problem. If you see this warning, you should contact a dealership to arrange replacement of the high-voltage battery pack.
Recall 2024348113 units in Canada
Brakes
Issue: On certain vehicles, the cruise control radar module may not have been aligned correctly during production. As a result, the adaptive cruise control may falsely detect an obstacle and stop or slow down the vehicle suddenly. Additionally, other driver assistance systems may not work properly, including the pre-collision assist, forward collision warning and/or automatic emergency braking. Note: This recall only affects two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control. Safety Risk: A vehicle that brakes or stops suddenly when there is no risk of a collision could increase the risk of a crash. Vehicle safety systems that don't work correctly could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to realign the cruise control module radar.
Recall 20234096,583 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Issue: On certain vehicles, the instrument cluster could remain blank. As a result, warnings, tell-tales and gauges may not display. Note: This recall only affects vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster. Safety Risk: Warnings, tell-tales and gauges that don't display could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Ford will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the instrument panel cluster or instrument panel cluster module, as necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Traverse City, MICrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traverse City, MICrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traverse City, MICrash
VISIBILITY/WIPER
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Garden Grove, CACrash
SERVICE BRAKES
i found the brake pedal too high.i was involved in a very low speed crash. i found my right foot caught between the accelerator and break peddle .unable to stop in time. am checking for a video and police report at this time
NHTSA complaint #11713335 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 37,000 milesToledo, OHFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the infotainment center would display a black screen, and while doing so, the radio would continue to play. The contact stated that while driving at different speeds, the trunk would suddenly open, causing the contact to have to pull over and close the trunk in order to continue to drive. The failure occurred 3 times while the vehicle was parked at home. There would be a burning odor emitting from the vehicle intermittently; however, there would be no smoke or indication of where the smell was coming from. While parked at home and unoccupied, the rear window suddenly shattered, and the vehicle caught on fire. The fire department was called and extinguished the fire. The fire department and the insurance company had determined the vehicle would be totaled; however, an official determination had not been provided. A police report was filed. The dealer was informed of the failure. There were no injuries or medical attention needed. There was no damage done to the property. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.
NHTSA complaint #11709631 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
LAS Cruces, NM1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11568800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Tinley Park, IL
POWER TRAIN
**On August 19, 2026, while driving my 2023 Ford Escape on Interstate 57 (I-57), with approximately 35,575 miles on the vehicle, the vehicle suddenly accelerated unexpectedly. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the vehicle did not respond as expected and I could not stop it immediately. I became very frightened and started sounding the horn and turned on the hazard warning lights. I noticed that the lane immediately to my right was relatively clear, so I moved into that lane and applied the brakes again. The vehicle then responded to the brakes, allowing me to slow down and stop. I moved as far to the right as possible and stopped on the side of the road. I was extremely shaken and felt dizzy after the incident. I stopped to catch my breath and contacted my husband to tell him what had happened. During the incident, the Check Engine Light came on and the vehicle displayed the message “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power.” I took the vehicle to a Ford dealer for inspection. The dealer diagnosed a turbocharger problem and advised that the turbocharger needs to be replaced under warranty. The vehicle was left at the dealership for repair, and I was provided with a loaner vehicle. The vehicle and the affected components are available for inspection upon request. No collision occurred, but the unexpected acceleration and the vehicle’s initial failure to respond to braking created a serious safety risk and I nearly had an accident.**
NHTSA complaint #11758424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tinley Park, IL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
**On August 19, 2026, while driving my 2023 Ford Escape on Interstate 57 (I-57), with approximately 35,575 miles on the vehicle, the vehicle suddenly accelerated unexpectedly. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the vehicle did not respond as expected and I could not stop it immediately. I became very frightened and started sounding the horn and turned on the hazard warning lights. I noticed that the lane immediately to my right was relatively clear, so I moved into that lane and applied the brakes again. The vehicle then responded to the brakes, allowing me to slow down and stop. I moved as far to the right as possible and stopped on the side of the road. I was extremely shaken and felt dizzy after the incident. I stopped to catch my breath and contacted my husband to tell him what had happened. During the incident, the Check Engine Light came on and the vehicle displayed the message “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power.” I took the vehicle to a Ford dealer for inspection. The dealer diagnosed a turbocharger problem and advised that the turbocharger needs to be replaced under warranty. The vehicle was left at the dealership for repair, and I was provided with a loaner vehicle. The vehicle and the affected components are available for inspection upon request. No collision occurred, but the unexpected acceleration and the vehicle’s initial failure to respond to braking created a serious safety risk and I nearly had an accident.**
NHTSA complaint #11758424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tinley Park, IL
SERVICE BRAKES
**On August 19, 2026, while driving my 2023 Ford Escape on Interstate 57 (I-57), with approximately 35,575 miles on the vehicle, the vehicle suddenly accelerated unexpectedly. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the vehicle did not respond as expected and I could not stop it immediately. I became very frightened and started sounding the horn and turned on the hazard warning lights. I noticed that the lane immediately to my right was relatively clear, so I moved into that lane and applied the brakes again. The vehicle then responded to the brakes, allowing me to slow down and stop. I moved as far to the right as possible and stopped on the side of the road. I was extremely shaken and felt dizzy after the incident. I stopped to catch my breath and contacted my husband to tell him what had happened. During the incident, the Check Engine Light came on and the vehicle displayed the message “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power.” I took the vehicle to a Ford dealer for inspection. The dealer diagnosed a turbocharger problem and advised that the turbocharger needs to be replaced under warranty. The vehicle was left at the dealership for repair, and I was provided with a loaner vehicle. The vehicle and the affected components are available for inspection upon request. No collision occurred, but the unexpected acceleration and the vehicle’s initial failure to respond to braking created a serious safety risk and I nearly had an accident.**
NHTSA complaint #11758424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakland, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
My 2023 Ford Escape (with fewer than 50,000 miles) began experiencing significant mechanical issues. I noticed exhaust fumes entering the cabin that passengers and I would inhale, loud noises from under the hood, and lose power during acceleration. After inspecting the vehicle, the dealership determined that the turbocharger wastegate/flapper valve had failed mechanically, causing the turbocharger to overboost and sustain internal damage. This failure led to numerous drivability issues, including hesitation, rough shifting, delayed upshifts, loud whining noises during cold starts, slipping during acceleration, and, at times, the inability to shift beyond second gear. Ultimately, the dealership concluded that the transmission needed to be rebuilt or replaced. My vehicle remained at the dealership from January 28, 2026, through May 14, 2026, over three and a half months. The vehicle still has transmission issues and loses power at times when driving on the highway commuting to work. At this moment of time, I scheduled it to go back to the dealership on July 9th.
NHTSA complaint #11748002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 33,000 milesMacedonia, OH
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH the "WRENCH Icon" was illuminated and the message "Service Gear Shifter" and the vehicle began to rapidly reduce speed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the highway road and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission had failed and needed to be rebuilt. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 33,000.
NHTSA complaint #11747401 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kansas City, MO
SERVICE BRAKES
The car started and when I went to put it in gear, turns off. Park brake limited function appeared on the dash . The car would not let me put it in gear without turning off. A month prior my dash with the speedometer was blank while driving not allowing me to see my speed . I turned the car off and on three different times. Only after sitting for several hours would the dash info reappear.
NHTSA complaint #11746394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,616 milesBrooksville, FL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the engine unexpectedly stated revving at a high rate. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with turbo charger assembly failure. The turbo charger assembly was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The oxygen sensor was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 42,616.
NHTSA complaint #11745710 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Yelm, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V789000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the unrepaired recall repair was an inconvenience because the battery could only be charged to 80-percent. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.
NHTSA complaint #11745757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2023 Ford Escape is equipped with a factory-installed rearview backup camera system and SYNC infotainment system. Beginning on or around February 2026. I began experiencing a series of recurring, intermittent, and worsening failures with the rearview camera and the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) that controls it. These failures render the backup camera system unreliable or completely non-functional during vehicle operation. Specific Symptoms Observed •BLUE / BLANK SCREEN: When the vehicle is placed in reverse, the rearview camera display shows a solid blue screen or goes completely blank rather than displaying the rear camera image. This failure occurs with no warning and leaves me unable to see what is behind the vehicle while backing up. •INVERTED / UPSIDE-DOWN IMAGE: The rearview camera image displays upside-down and/or mirrored, rendering the image confusing and unsafe. Guidelines, directional aids, and proximity warnings displayed on screen are also inverted, making them unusable. •DISTORTED / CORRUPTED IMAGE: The camera feed displays visual distortion, artifacts, freezing, flickering, or corruption that makes it impossible to accurately interpret what is behind the vehicle. •APIM FAILURE: The Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) — the core software module controlling the SYNC 3 display and camera feed — has failed or malfunctioned. Dealership diagnosis has identified the APIM as requiring repair or replacement. This module failure is the root cause of the camera display issues described above. The failures occur intermittently and unpredictably. The camera may function correctly for a period, then fail on the next use. In some cases, the failure is persistent across multiple ignition cycles. There is no consistent triggering condition — the defect occurs in varied weather conditions, temperatures, and after varying periods of use. Turning the vehicle off and back on sometimes temporarily restores the camera, but the defect returns.
NHTSA complaint #11741427 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
My 2023 Ford Escape is equipped with a factory-installed rearview backup camera system and SYNC infotainment system. Beginning on or around February 2026. I began experiencing a series of recurring, intermittent, and worsening failures with the rearview camera and the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) that controls it. These failures render the backup camera system unreliable or completely non-functional during vehicle operation. Specific Symptoms Observed •BLUE / BLANK SCREEN: When the vehicle is placed in reverse, the rearview camera display shows a solid blue screen or goes completely blank rather than displaying the rear camera image. This failure occurs with no warning and leaves me unable to see what is behind the vehicle while backing up. •INVERTED / UPSIDE-DOWN IMAGE: The rearview camera image displays upside-down and/or mirrored, rendering the image confusing and unsafe. Guidelines, directional aids, and proximity warnings displayed on screen are also inverted, making them unusable. •DISTORTED / CORRUPTED IMAGE: The camera feed displays visual distortion, artifacts, freezing, flickering, or corruption that makes it impossible to accurately interpret what is behind the vehicle. •APIM FAILURE: The Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) — the core software module controlling the SYNC 3 display and camera feed — has failed or malfunctioned. Dealership diagnosis has identified the APIM as requiring repair or replacement. This module failure is the root cause of the camera display issues described above. The failures occur intermittently and unpredictably. The camera may function correctly for a period, then fail on the next use. In some cases, the failure is persistent across multiple ignition cycles. There is no consistent triggering condition — the defect occurs in varied weather conditions, temperatures, and after varying periods of use. Turning the vehicle off and back on sometimes temporarily restores the camera, but the defect returns.
NHTSA complaint #11741427 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING
My 2023 Ford Escape is equipped with a factory-installed rearview backup camera system and SYNC infotainment system. Beginning on or around February 2026. I began experiencing a series of recurring, intermittent, and worsening failures with the rearview camera and the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) that controls it. These failures render the backup camera system unreliable or completely non-functional during vehicle operation. Specific Symptoms Observed •BLUE / BLANK SCREEN: When the vehicle is placed in reverse, the rearview camera display shows a solid blue screen or goes completely blank rather than displaying the rear camera image. This failure occurs with no warning and leaves me unable to see what is behind the vehicle while backing up. •INVERTED / UPSIDE-DOWN IMAGE: The rearview camera image displays upside-down and/or mirrored, rendering the image confusing and unsafe. Guidelines, directional aids, and proximity warnings displayed on screen are also inverted, making them unusable. •DISTORTED / CORRUPTED IMAGE: The camera feed displays visual distortion, artifacts, freezing, flickering, or corruption that makes it impossible to accurately interpret what is behind the vehicle. •APIM FAILURE: The Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) — the core software module controlling the SYNC 3 display and camera feed — has failed or malfunctioned. Dealership diagnosis has identified the APIM as requiring repair or replacement. This module failure is the root cause of the camera display issues described above. The failures occur intermittently and unpredictably. The camera may function correctly for a period, then fail on the next use. In some cases, the failure is persistent across multiple ignition cycles. There is no consistent triggering condition — the defect occurs in varied weather conditions, temperatures, and after varying periods of use. Turning the vehicle off and back on sometimes temporarily restores the camera, but the defect returns.
NHTSA complaint #11741427 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Moseley, VA
POWER TRAIN
2023 Ford Escape with approximately 80,000 miles. While traveling home, vehicle started shifting violently making loud bang. Lost acceleration while traveling on a two-way roadway with no shoulder. Vehicle would shift violently and allow acceleration momentarily and then would again lose acceleration. Just prior to reaching a pull off area in a safe place, the vehicle shifted violently one last time and would no longer accelerate. The service engine now warning light then came on advising of a powertrain malfunction. Vehicle was towed to Ford dealership and the technition reported that the planetary gears were locked up and a full transmission replacement would need to be done. This posed a serious safety issue on the road way due to the initial sudden speed changes becuase of the loss of acceleration and then the complete loss of ability to accelerate causing the vehilce to have to drift slowely to the shoulder while impeding traffic.
NHTSA complaint #11740355 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Niota, TN
POWER TRAIN
Stopped at a Light and took off thru the intersection and car made a loud bang noise then no power and kept bogging out, pulled into parking lot and stopped then car wouldn’t move. Shut car off then restarted it and put into reverse and car drive forward, put in neutral and car still drove forward, couldn’t get it to go into reverse, now the motor is tilting back to fire wall like motor mounts are broke and it’s make a grinding noise when idling.
NHTSA complaint #11739386 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Matawan, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
[Recurring No-Start Issue with Multiple Warning Alerts – Safety Concern] I am reporting a recurring vehicle issue involving failure to start, which I believe may pose a safety risk. The issue has occurred five times: August 11, 2023 April 12, 2025 June 13, 2025 December 12, 2025 April 1, 2026 During these incidents, the vehicle failed to start and displayed multiple warning messages on the dashboard. On some occasions, the vehicle only started after several hours. The vehicle becomes completely inoperable when this issue occurs. After the third occurrence, I brought the vehicle to an authorized service center. However, the issue was not resolved and has continued to occur. This repeated failure raises serious concerns about vehicle reliability and safety, as the vehicle may become inoperable without warning. I have attached documentation, including repair records and photos of the dashboard warnings. I am submitting this report so that this issue can be properly investigated.
NHTSA complaint #11739002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Matawan, NJ
ENGINE
[Recurring No-Start Issue with Multiple Warning Alerts – Safety Concern] I am reporting a recurring vehicle issue involving failure to start, which I believe may pose a safety risk. The issue has occurred five times: August 11, 2023 April 12, 2025 June 13, 2025 December 12, 2025 April 1, 2026 During these incidents, the vehicle failed to start and displayed multiple warning messages on the dashboard. On some occasions, the vehicle only started after several hours. The vehicle becomes completely inoperable when this issue occurs. After the third occurrence, I brought the vehicle to an authorized service center. However, the issue was not resolved and has continued to occur. This repeated failure raises serious concerns about vehicle reliability and safety, as the vehicle may become inoperable without warning. I have attached documentation, including repair records and photos of the dashboard warnings. I am submitting this report so that this issue can be properly investigated.
NHTSA complaint #11739002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Matawan, NJ
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
[Recurring No-Start Issue with Multiple Warning Alerts – Safety Concern] I am reporting a recurring vehicle issue involving failure to start, which I believe may pose a safety risk. The issue has occurred five times: August 11, 2023 April 12, 2025 June 13, 2025 December 12, 2025 April 1, 2026 During these incidents, the vehicle failed to start and displayed multiple warning messages on the dashboard. On some occasions, the vehicle only started after several hours. The vehicle becomes completely inoperable when this issue occurs. After the third occurrence, I brought the vehicle to an authorized service center. However, the issue was not resolved and has continued to occur. This repeated failure raises serious concerns about vehicle reliability and safety, as the vehicle may become inoperable without warning. I have attached documentation, including repair records and photos of the dashboard warnings. I am submitting this report so that this issue can be properly investigated.
NHTSA complaint #11739002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Berlin, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1.engine failed and my infotainment system turned off 2.i feel like I was scared because I didnt know if I was going to come back on 3. No 4. No
NHTSA complaint #11738223 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Berlin, WI
ENGINE
1.engine failed and my infotainment system turned off 2.i feel like I was scared because I didnt know if I was going to come back on 3. No 4. No
NHTSA complaint #11738223 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 28,000 milesEureka, IL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Battery Issue, Pull Over" displayed, and the battery, check engine, and master warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over and contacted the dealer, who instructed him to turn off and restart the vehicle. After following the dealer's instructions, the failure was resolved. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V091000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the recall but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.
NHTSA complaint #11735883 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traverse City, MICrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traverse City, MICrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traverse City, MICrash
VISIBILITY/WIPER
While pulling into a residential parking space at low speed, the vehicle (2023 Ford Escape) suddenly accelerated unexpectedly without additional throttle input. The acceleration was abrupt and forceful, and I was unable to stop the vehicle before it struck the structure in front of the parking space. The incident occurred at very low speed and under normal driving conditions. The driver was applying the brake at the time of the unintended acceleration. Airbags deployed upon impact. There were no prior warning lights or indications of a mechanical issue before the incident. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage.
NHTSA complaint #11735200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 34,756 milesHannibal, MO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the radio displayed a blank screen. A dealer was contacted. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 34,756.
NHTSA complaint #11733971 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Coon Rapids, MN
STRUCTURE:BODY
The left rear liftgate hinge cover flew off in the car wash during the drying cycle. The same thing has happened to my 2020 Escape and that vehicle is covered under a recall but this 2023 Escape is not. I feel it should be because it has the same issue for the same part.
NHTSA complaint #11727734 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Thomas Oaks, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2023 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V789000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
NHTSA complaint #11727257 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
