2021 Ford Escape parts and specs

What changed for the 2021 Ford Escape

• 2021Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) finally launches in the US after a delay caused by the European Kuga PHEV battery fires

Known problems with the 2021 Ford Escape

5 of the 6 issues we track for the 2020–2025 generation are documented against the 2021 model year, and 5 carry a recall or service bulletin.

• 1.5L cracked fuel injector, underhood fire risk (recall, twice remedied)

  majorNHTSA 22V-859 (Ford 22S73); superseded remedy under NHTSA 25V-467 (Ford 25S76); interim 24V-187

  Fuel injectors on the 1.5L three-cylinder can crack and leak fuel onto hot engine surfaces at up to 19 L/hour, causing underhood fires. Ford first recalled 2020–2022 Escapes (and 2021–2024 Bronco Sports) in Nov 2022 with a drain tube + detection software fix (22V-859), then re-recalled ~858,000 vehicles in 2025 (25V-467, Ford 25S76) after NHTSA questioned the original remedy, dealers now test and replace cracked injectors. Check your VIN even if the first recall was done.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

• 2.5L hybrid/PHEV engine failure can eject oil, fire risk (recall)

  majorNHTSA 23V-380 (Ford 23S27); supplement 25V-345

  On 2.5L HEV and PHEV models, an engine block or connecting-rod failure can breach the block and spray oil/fuel vapor onto hot components, causing engine-compartment fires. Recall 23V-380 (Ford 23S27) covers 2020–2023 Escape hybrids (with Corsair and Maverick hybrids); the remedy modifies the under-hood shielding and software to detect failure and reduce fire risk. A follow-up (25V-345) re-repaired vehicles fixed incorrectly. A seized hybrid engine still means an engine replacement, usually under powertrain warranty.

  Typical cost: Free under recall; engine replacement covered by 8-yr/100k hybrid-component or 5-yr/60k powertrain warranty when applicable

• PHEV high-voltage battery internal short (recalls)

  majorNHTSA 24V-954; NHTSA 25V-789

  Escape PHEV packs (same family as the European Kuga PHEV that delayed the US launch) can develop cell anomalies that short internally, causing loss of power or fire risk. Ford recalled 2020–2024 Escape PHEVs under 24V-954 and again under 25V-789 (Nov 2025), remedies include battery diagnostic software and pack module replacement where faults are detected. PHEV owners should keep charging habits normal and get recall software promptly.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

• 8F35 8-speed transmission shudder

  moderateFord TSB series on 8F35 shudder (superseded repeatedly, e.g. NHTSA item 11032566); no recall

  Many 2020+ Escapes (and Bronco Sport/Maverick/Corsair) with the 8F35 exhibit a shudder or vibration under light throttle below ~60 mph with no fault codes. Ford has issued a long series of TSBs, the usual remedy is a fluid exchange with revised Mercon ULV and a TCM recalibration; stubborn cases get a torque converter. Documented in NHTSA manufacturer communications through 2026.

  Typical cost: Free under powertrain warranty; $300–$500 fluid/reflash or $1,500–$2,500 converter out of warranty

• Engine oil leaks from oil separator / ball plugs, fire risk (recalls)

  moderateFord 24S55; December 2025 ball-plug oil-leak recall (2020–2022 + 2025 Escape)

  Ford has recalled 2020–2022 Escapes (with Bronco Sport) for engine oil leaks: first for cracked oil separator housings on the 1.5L (Ford 24S55), and in Dec 2025 for engine ball plugs that can back out and leak oil, with fire risk in both cases. Symptoms are oil spots, burning-oil smell, or a low-oil warning. Dealers inspect and replace the leaking components free.

  Typical cost: Free under recall

Full detail, costs and sources on the Ford Escape problems and years to avoid guide.