Home · 2019 Ford Ecosport · Complaints

What 451 owners told NHTSA about the 2019 Ford Ecosport

These are the actual owner complaints behind this car’s reliability verdict, filed with the federal government, unedited. They’re unverified reports, not confirmed defects: read them as leads for your pre-purchase inspection, not a diagnosis.

All (451)Crash / fire / injury (9)Engine & cooling (213)Engine (187)Transmission & drivetrain (49)Fuel system (33)Electrical system (18)Brakes (13)Speed control (12)Airbags (5)Steering (4)Body & structure (3)

187 of 451 complaints match · Engine · clear filters · page 1 of 8

May 22, 2026Engine

I brought my Ford EcoSport into the Baxter. Ford, in Papillion, Nebraska, because it was malfunctioning, the oil pressure got real low and my car was not accelerating like it should Also I advise them that there is an open recall on the vehicle. As well and I that the recall and the engine malfunction are related. They told me that it wasn't, and I'm sure it was. Then, they advised me that after speaking with Ford. Ford agreed to pay $3000 for a new engine, while I was responsible for the remaining $4000, I asked if I can have an email showing the communication with Ford, I was advised that they don't have access to that. They're unable to forward me an email, which is a red flag i would like to get a second opinion on the diagnosis of my engine in the fort. Ecosport. I don't understand why they would not be able to forward me an email of the communication between them and Ford. When asked the service manager about that, he advised that he does not have access to it. Which is a red flag? Is there anything you guys can do?Please let me know.Thank you have a good day

NHTSA ODI 11739533

Apr 28, 2026Transmission & drivetrainEngineFuel system

So my car is about to be out of warranty and I have called and made two appointments to get my recall taken care of as it is a safety risk for me and my kids. They canceled the first one with no communication and the second appointment they called and said they can’t get the part in so I have to call them in 2 weeks to check. After two weeks I believed my car will be over the 60k mark putting me out of warranty and voiding them to fix any issues that occurred because of this recall.

NHTSA ODI 11734313

Apr 27, 2026Transmission & drivetrainEngineFuel system

This is now going to be the FOURTH time we are going to have to put a NEW engine in the same exact car. We just replaced the engine barely a year and a half ago.

NHTSA ODI 11734073

Apr 25, 2026BrakesEngine

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 ODI 11733795

Apr 21, 2026Transmission & drivetrainEngine

Engine and Transmission failed at 46,000 miles even though under a extended warranty Ford short changed us to where we had to pay $7200.00 to get the car fixed. This car is the worst for failures of the powertrain. Never will buy another Ford ever.

NHTSA ODI 11732785

Apr 16, 2026Engine

I don't know who could help resolve the issue we have. Our 2019 Ford Eco-sport had several recalls. The last recall Holman/Ford kept our car for 9 months but kind enough to lend us a car to use while they waited for a part. We had to cancel our vacation trip to Turner Maine to see our daughter's family because we were not permitted to drive the loaner out of state! Later they decided that they had to give us a new engine and gave us the car back in November of 2024. After receiving our car back we noticed a gas smell each time we put the heater on. It was strong to the point of opening our windows for ventilation. My husband called several times leaving a message and no one called back. We left more messages saying why is the check engine light on all the time when it is a brand new engine? Finally they informed us that we need to pay for a diagnostic test that was well over $100 and we brought it to their attention that it has not been right since we got the car back so why should we have to pay for a dianostic test? We went to pepboys to get the diagnostic test that was cheaper and they informed us that Ford should have removed and replaced the canister purge solenoid when putting in a new engine. Without doing that, it could ruin the engine again as well as the canister purge solenoid. We did research to learn they should have replaced the canister purge solenoid as well. My husband called and left several messages and no one would return his call. Once again he called them today and a "Jim" called back from Holman Ford, Maple Shade [XXX] saying that the recall was on a new engine and they did not have to replace the canister purge solenoid. He told my husband it would be cheaper to go to PepBoys to replace the canister purge solenoid. Is this true that they did not have to replace the canister solenoid? We had several recalls on our 2019 Eco Sport. Isn't it considered under a lemon law? How do we get them to fix it properly with no charge? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11731515

Apr 7, 2026Engine

I purchased a 2019 Ford EcoSport from CarMax on April 12, 2022. At the time of sale, CarMax provided documentation stating that there were no unrepaired safety recalls on the vehicle. I relied on this representation in making my purchase decision. I later discovered that the vehicle is subject to a serious manufacturer recall involving the engine oil pump, which can fail and cause loss of oil pressure, engine damage, and safety risks while driving. CarMax misrepresented the recall status of the vehicle at the time of sale. This is a material safety issue that should have been disclosed. I am still dealing with ongoing issues related to this defect and have not received proper assistance or resolution from CarMax despite multiple attempts to contact them.

NHTSA ODI 11729668

Apr 7, 2026Engine & coolingEngine

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light and low oil warning light were unexpectedly illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times and was eventually diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that after the repair, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light and low oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, it was later towed to another dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 119,000.

NHTSA ODI 11729708

Mar 24, 2026Transmission & drivetrainEngine

[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] March 24, 2026 ` NHTSA Safety Complaint Summary My 2019 Ford (VIN: [XXX] ) has an unresolved safety recall issued in January 2024. Two repair attempts were made: - May 2025: Vehicle kept 41 days; recall repair not completed - January 18, 2026: Second attempt; recall repair still not completed The defect remains unresolved. I am the caregiver of a special‑needs son, and the extended loss of transportation has caused hardship. I am requesting review and documentation of these failed recall attempts. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11726793

Mar 4, 2026SteeringBrakesEngine

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 ODI 11722109

Mar 2, 2026BrakesEngineFuel system

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 ODI 11721481

Feb 11, 2026Transmission & drivetrainEngineFuel system

Car went in for recall. Ford replaced engine because they claim a bolt broke. I have taken the car about 300 miles since I received it back and the engine light appeared. I let them know. Light went off and I had another important meeting to make in DFW . This time wrench and engine light came on . It sat at airport for 2 days. Then I got back in , no warning lights on but I got home with more warnings then. Engine was super hot and making humming noise. The next day warning light again. I took videos and called Ford . They have refused to help me. I just had a new engine installed because of a recall.

NHTSA ODI 11717303

Feb 4, 2026Engine

Complaint Summary: My 2019 Ford EcoSport has experienced repeated failures of a known recall‑related engine defect. The engine was replaced once due to the recall, and less than a year later the same defect occurred again. The vehicle stalled on the highway, creating a serious safety hazard. Despite multiple recall repairs, the defect persists. Ford denied my buyback request without proper review. I am requesting NHTSA investigation into the effectiveness of this recall remedy. Have had two failed attempts under this recall to correct the situation, which is putting me and my family at risk. This is especially concerning because my special-needs son travels with me in the vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11715487

Feb 3, 2026Transmission & drivetrainElectrical systemEngineFire

I bought a used 2019 Ford Ecosport SE in January 2022. I received a recall notice (#23S64: “ENGINE OIL PUMP BELT AND TENSIONER REPLACEMENT FINAL REPAIR”). A paper notice I received from Ford dated June 2024 mentioned a remedy expected in Q1 2025. The estimation was pushed back, and parts were eventually ready in Q3, some time in August. Before I could take my vehicle to a dealership, on [XXX], while driving my vehicle it stalled, smoked, and smoldered. I made no collisions with any other object, person, or vehicle. I called my insurance and the fire department (incident number: [XXX]). I believe the damage was related to the recall. It was described to me that there was even damage to some wiring, as a result of the fire. I called my insurance, and they towed my vehicle to Larry H. Miller Ford Dealership on September 30, 2025. It was scheduled for its first service on October 1, 2025, but technicians inspected it on October 16, 2025. The repair cost exceeded the vehicle’s value, as I needed a new engine and transmission. After long periods without progress and updates, on January 7th, I was informed by the dealership that I’d either be paid or my vehicle would be repaired, but the final decision rested with Ford Motor Company. The dealership had submitted everything, as a service manager with Larry H. Miller told me on January 7, 2026. I called Ford Motor Company and asked for specific repair dates, but I received no more information than from the dealership. I was told by the dealership that I should have an answer on repairs “by the end of the week”on January 26, 2026, but it’s now February 3, 2026. I’ve been without a vehicle for four months, impacting my flexibility and affecting my vehicle loan. I accepted a loaner vehicle on January 7, 2026. I seek a prompt and fair resolution, whether it’s a payment or a repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11715191

Jan 4, 2026Transmission & drivetrainElectrical systemEngine

my ford EcoSport had to get a new motor due to teh recall issue but since they put a new motor my ac and heater had to be replaced. my battery. my sensors pop on and off. My car won't go over 65 and when it does it jerks. Ford did replace the motor but ive asked for them to buy the car back and they have refused my car has completely shut off and ive taken to ford and they don't know. i have the poofe code and my gas could be full and driving it 5 minutes im on e. they dont know if its the sensor or the tank. i always smell something burning. ive asked they said thats normal, but the smell gets stronger and stronger.

NHTSA ODI 11708617

Nov 14, 2025Engine

Our engine seized due to a safety recall while traveling on a major interstate. We received notice of the safety recall from Ford and asked to have it fixed by our local dealership. This was August 20, 2025. We were told by the dealership’s service manager that there were 2 or 3 cars ahead of us and call back the first of September. We again asked to get scheduled and were told there were cars ahead of us. We once again asked about the recall and having it repaired on Oct. 21, 2025. We was told it couldn’t be scheduled at the time and it should be okay for us to go on our scheduled 8 hour trip. The car seized on Oct. 26, 2025 and we were 4 hours away from home. At that time, we had to have it towed to local dealership there and were stranded. The low oil light came on just minutes before it seized. We contacted the state police to be there with us as we waited for help and had to pay to stay overnight. Our car is still 4 hours away and is supposed to be fixed as soon as the engine comes in. This was a safety recall and we were advised to travel in a car which was not safe and Ford knew it. We do not have any paperwork except the safety recall as it has not been repaired.

NHTSA ODI 11699406

Sep 22, 2025Engine

I contacted the local Ford dealer, Confidence of Norman in Oklahoma, twice regarding correspondence from Ford about the ongoing recall. I had made appointments on both occasions. During my first visit, the dealership representative stated that they would only address the issue if my vehicle had an actual malfunction and would take no action in the meantime. Last week, I scheduled a follow-up appointment after receiving another letter from Ford. This appointment took place today; however, I was again refused service. The dealership claimed that, despite my scheduled appointment, they lacked the necessary tools to perform the repairs. They did not offer an alternative appointment or provide an estimated timeline for when the issue might be fixed. Ultimately, their response indicated that my visit was unproductive. Besides this complaint, I don’t know what else I can do to fix this problem.

NHTSA ODI 11688818

Sep 15, 2025Engine

My vehicle falls under a recall due to the oil tensioner belt. I experienced a problem where the engine wasn’t allowing me to accelerate over certain speeds. The car has been experiencing the same issue even after multiple attempts to fix the car. I had the engine replaced once & four days later the engine blew while I was traveling down a hill. I had no control over the vehicle and as it continued to glide down the hill, I anxiously turned on my hazards afraid of what I was about to face. The dealership determined that the engine had blown again & that they would rectify the situation yet again. I received notice that after yet another replacement engine, the car was test driven and is chattering. My car has been in the shop for over two months and after multiple attempts of trying to fix the recall, I would feel rather unsafe to drive the vehicle again.

NHTSA ODI 11687243

Sep 2, 2025BrakesEngineFuel system

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 ODI 11684603

Aug 16, 2025EngineFuel system

I received a recall on my vehicle February 2024 and still the parts are not available. Now I am having issues with my vehicle making it unsafe for me and my son to get to and from school and work etc. This is my only vehicle I have! I need my car repaired ASAP and I need another vehicle until mine gets fixed.

NHTSA ODI 11681120

Aug 11, 2025Engine

I own a 2019 Ford EcoSport, VIN [XXX] , which is subject to recall 23S64 / 23V905 (Engine Oil Pump Belt and Tensioner Replacement - Final Repair). I was informed of this recall in June 2024, yet Ford has advised there is currently no available remedy. This is a serious safety concern. Under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301 and the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, manufacturers must correct safety defects within a reasonable time and at no cost. Ford's failure to provide a repair, replacement, or refund is a violation of these obligations. I request NHTSA's urgent attention to compel Ford to resolve this recall promptly. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11679895

Jul 28, 2025EngineFuel system

Recall anounced for vehicle early 2024. Remedy still not available. Check Engine light comes on, noticeable loss of fuel pressure at times.

NHTSA ODI 11676577

Jul 21, 2025Engine

Engine oil pump belt tension

NHTSA ODI 11674990

Jul 10, 2025Engine

I have had the same issue with my Ecosport since 04/2022 and have taken it to the ford dealership and been in contact with ford corporate multiple times. In March 2023 I had to replace the engine because it finally completely froze up and was told it was do to the oil pump tensioner. This was the fifth time I had taken it in. The check engine light came back on as soon as I left the dealership, I was told it just needed to reset. It started having issues again in August 2023 and every time I took it in it has been dismissed. I have spent thousands of dollars on repairs for this SUV. Today the check engine light came back on and it smells like smoke if you try to drive it, along with it being very slow to pick up speed and making the same odd noise as before the motor locked up the last time. I contacted ford and made another appointment today to get it checked. I also contacted ford customer service and was told that there is nothing they can do that I will once again be responsible for the cost of all repairs because the recall is not completely in place. This vehicle is not fixable or safe to drive. Ford informed me that the vehicle is now to old for them to be responsible for the fact that the car is not fixable despite the fact that they have been trying to fix it and charging me thousands of dollars while I am still paying on it. And knowing it was unsafe

NHTSA ODI 11672578

Jul 6, 2025Engine

Was driving down highway when I lost power and it started whistling and a warning sounded said low oil pressure so I pulled over and had to be towed home. When I received my recall letter I took it to my local ford dealer In Covington indiana and they told me they couldn't get the parts but would contact me when they came and they neverdid. So I called them back after this happened and they said they couldn't get these parts sent to them that I would have to find a bigger dealership. Now I have to pay for a tow to Lebanon Indiana they can't get it in until July 23rd for diagnosis and no loaner. So I am without answers or a vehicle for almost a month...

NHTSA ODI 11671433

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Working with the data? Download all 451 complaints as CSV · fetched from NHTSA July 15, 2026

How to use these: a complaint is one owner’s report, filed voluntarily and published unverified. Patterns matter more than any single story. If several owners describe the same failure at similar mileage, put that system at the top of your pre-purchase inspection list. Back to the full 2019 Ford Ecosport verdict →