What 451 owners told NHTSA about the 2019 Ford Ecosport

My car has been in and out of the shop since 2024 due to the power train system. As this is an active recall case my car was repaired 5 times. Recently, with the recall part replaced in January 2026, I got my car back and in May 2026 while driving, my car once again loss power. Going from 50 to coasting. After many guarantees that the problem is fixed, I continue to have the same dangerous problems.

NHTSA ODI 11737848

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

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

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

[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

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

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

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

ODI 11676608 Since initial contact to your office the transmission issue has worsened An extended warranty was purchased. After 30 days the car was taken to the repair location suggested by the warranty company. No warning lights were on, but the car was running very rough. It was not getting enough power to get thru intersections and very sluggish to keep the speed with traffic. The tool light had come on a couple of times, but would reset when I shut down the car and restarted it. The warranty provider was aware that the light was not on and I was taking it to the be serviced as a precaution. I was not comfortable driving an unreliable auto. The repair shop determined that I again need a transmission. The warranty company states it will not pay for the repair, Ford says they won't assist since I was now dealing with a repair shop rather than a dealership and I am stuck with this pile of metal. March 29, 2023 my car had 56,000 miles and the dealership did an (over haul), the car now has 96,000 miles. Way too soon for any car to be put down! I have spoken to several mechanics about this issue and the conclusion verbalized to me has been, the transmissions on these cars are crap and get rid of the carl

NHTSA ODI 11690547

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked abnormally while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with transmission failure. The vehicle was serviced under warranty, and the transmission was replaced. Despite the transmission replacement, the failure persisted and became more frequent. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

NHTSA ODI 11676608

Before 58000 miles my 2019 Ford EcoSport began experiencing serious drivetrain issues. The car grinds when going uphill, shakes and shudders when accelerating, and the RPMs surge up and down erratically. A certified Ford dealer diagnosed it as a transmission-related problem, (torque converter which I understand to be an issue with these cars)and Ford has only offered partial financial assistance (45%) for a $3,000 repair. These symptoms pose a potential safety issue, especially while merging, climbing hills, or accelerating in traffic. Additionally, the infotainment system failed—backup camera and USB ports stopped working—raising more concerns about overall electrical system reliability. This transmission failure occurred far too early for normal wear and raises serious concerns about possible manufacturing defects. This should not be happening this soon and no engine lights came on or anything.

NHTSA ODI 11670794

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The issue appears to be related to the powertrain system, specifically the belt tension or transmission shifting components. A “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power” warning message appeared through the FordPass app, and I have also been experiencing jerking or hesitation when applying pressure to the gas pedal, particularly during gear shifts. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. ⸻ How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The unexpected jerking and reduction in power while driving could pose a serious safety risk, especially when merging onto highways or changing lanes, where smooth acceleration is critical. This behavior could result in a loss of control or increase the likelihood of a rear-end collision in traffic. ⸻ Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? An independent mechanic has reviewed the issue and suspects that it may be related to the previously reported belt tension recall, although my specific vehicle VIN was not included in that recall group. The mechanic observed the jerking and powertrain alert and recommended further inspection. ⸻ Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Not yet. I am currently in the process of filing this report and seeking guidance from the manufacturer to determine the next steps for inspection and resolution. ⸻ Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes. The “Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power” message appeared via the FordPass app. Prior to the alert, I had noticed intermittent jerking and hesitation during acceleration, which became more noticeable within the last few weeks leading up to the warning

NHTSA ODI 11667514

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated while driving at approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle shuddered abnormally. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.

NHTSA ODI 11652023

The contact owns a 2019 Ford Ecosport. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended, and the transmission failed to shift above second gear. In addition, the contact became aware of an abnormal ticking sound. The contact stated the sound was like the sound of a sewing machine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not inspected. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); 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 not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 26,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11645925

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission was hesitating before shifting gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the transmission was slipping. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact stated that the vehicle was awaiting repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.

NHTSA ODI 11645331

My car went to the dealership service department to be fixed because the recall piece broke in December. Middle of February they told me it was all fixed I picked it up and within 8 hours it wasn’t driving right and had a bunch of alerts. I tried to drive it home it broke down in 2 degrees weather, I was stranded for 35 minutes with no heat. The dealership got the car back had it for a few more weeks. Today they called saying they think it will be fixed. They called this afternoon saying they took it for the test drive and it wouldn’t work.

NHTSA ODI 11643999

On Dec 20, 2024 at 1:51PM my vehicles check engine light turned on as I was driving an Uber rider to their destination. I was unable to accelerate my gas pedal to get on the freeway. I immediately pulled over to the side of the road and saw my check engine light pop up on my dashboard. I checked my Ford App, stating check engine light is on due to low fuel system pressure, poor fuel quality/restricted fuel filter causing limited engine power until resolved. I immediately had my car towed in this case of emergency to the Frontier Ford Dealership to get this resolved. I was told after diagnostic I will be notified if under recall. I was emailed to pay out of pocket for the diagnostic repairs on 1/29/25. Then emailed by CARFAX about the new recall #23V905 that is overdue for my car on 2/14/25. I am currently paying for a car without a free rental and have been out of work for 3 months. I can't afford to pay out of pocket to Frontier Ford Dealership. I need to get back to work and I need my transportation.

NHTSA ODI 11643568

Oil pump issue, Ford refuses to repair. They will keep delaying it indefinitely. I want Ford to buy back my ecosport as I feel unsafe driving it.

NHTSA ODI 11609230

Vehicle exhibits transmission issues at 70k miles. When put into reverse, very sharp and sudden jerking is present. When shifting between gears there is hesitation, lagging, and slipping. No previous issues and all Ford scheduled maintenance has been followed. Local mechanic diagnosed transmission failure, and Ford dealership has had the car for almost a week with no answers. Ford customer service has been no help so far. Car shows no warning codes or error messages on dash. Car is 5 years old and 70k miles. First transmission service on owners manual is 100k miles for a fluid change.

NHTSA ODI 11605289

My cars engine seized up and almost crashed into someone

NHTSA ODI 11594640

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The low oil pressure message was displayed. The contact detected an abnormal clicking sound coming from the engine. While driving at an undisclosed speed the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle decelerated. The contact stated that the transmission was slipping. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.

NHTSA ODI 11594357

In 2022 of July-August. No lights came on to warn me or anything and my engine went completely out. I took it in and it was the oil pressure that caused my engine to fail. I had to get a new engine, transmission, and a whole bunch of other new things done to my car. AFTER repairs covered by warranty I continue driving and right away I noticed my car making weird noises (like whirring and purring). I took it into ANOTHER ford dealership. This dealership told me that the OTHER dealership did the repairs all wrong and that my car was a mess under the hood…and BOTH dealerships argued who was going to pay for the repairs . To this day I still hear the whirring even though they claim it’s fixed . Surprise ford of Arizona was the dealership that did repairs, and the Milford Ford was the second dealer who claims the repairs were horrible and screws were loose etc right in front of me(I called ford during this conversation to have it recorded) I have a [XXX] son and I fear to drive my car everyday. I have asked ford to repurchase my vehicle TWICE and no remedy has been done. Now for 3 months of being aware of the recall nothing has been done . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11590048

low oil engine, light on...big valley ford lincoln stockton wont do something until the second letter re-call is serve.

NHTSA ODI 11589216

On [XXX], my 2019 Ford EcoSport came up with an alert that indicated to "see manual"; the manual indicated that this alert is due to the Powertrain. Hours later, I receive an alert with the engine oil symbol about the engine oil pressure low followed by the engine light appearing. I was able to get it into my dealership (Venus Ewald Ford in Cudahy, WI) the next day; it was informed to me later that day that these symptoms were due to the recall associated with the vehicle. It was a hassle obtaining a rental vehicle as the warranty states it "can only be a Ford Vehicle" I was told. On [XXX], I received a call from the dealership indicating that my rental vehicle was extended as they were waiting on a specific part from Ford. It is now [XXX] and I have not heard anything since 4/05/2024 about the vehicle's status. Moreover, I was informed I would have to pay a deductible which I should not have to as indicated it was all due to the recall and the letter I received regarding the recall states the "repair will be free of charge (parts and labor)." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11583240

The contact owns a 2019 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that before receiving the recall notice, the oil pump had failed. The contact stated that the manufacturer had no parts to complete the recall repair. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the oil pump, timing belt, and water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at approximately 35 MPH, after picking up the vehicle from the independent mechanic, her daughter noticed that the vehicle was hesitating before shifting gear. The contact stated that later her son had driven the vehicle to a local shop and while returning to the residence, the "check engine" warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked and remained parked. The vehicle was not taken back to the independent mechanic. The vehicle had a failure after picking up the vehicle from the independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was 51,799.

NHTSA ODI 11581870