What 1,479 owners told NHTSA about the 2020 Ford Escape Gas

On my dash my AWD fault warning has showed up followed by hill assist not available and traction control not available. I have looked for in formation online about it and it seems that it’s a recurring issue with 2020 Ford Escape and many others. I’ve seen that there was a customer satisfaction effective on April 9,2021 through April 30, 2022 but I have just gotten this car last year and dealer states that I am responsible for fixing a manufacturing issue. I’m not sure where my car was manufactured but my car is affected. I have about 83,600 miles and don’t seem to understand why I have to pay since in the customer satisfaction program it states that the module needs to be replaced before sale and customers that have already purchased the vehicle should have it replaced no charge to them. I’ve only just gotten this car last year February 2024 and not sure if the owner before got the notice or not. Since winter is starting soon I really need to get this fixed it’s a safety hazard and I’m not understanding why it is not a recall since it showed up suddenly and stopped my drive modes from working and traction that’s very important in the winter.

NHTSA ODI 11690791

It appears that either the rear differential is locked up, or the traction control system has decided to lock all tires for the same rotation. When making any turns at slow speed, the tires grind and pop on the road. If turning in grass it will rip up the grass where the turn was made. In addition, the RPMs and vehicle lurch at normal cruising speed and when accelerating. I understand this as an issue with the torque converter. When the tires locked up, it put excessive force e on this component. It was stated in a similar TSB with the exact issue. There was a lack of fluid in the rear differential when it left the factory. Determination on repair was based on an inspection of the differential fluid and its levels. The cascade of failures happened after a road trip from FL to NY, I believe the miles were around 45,000. Upon arrival, NY roads were covered in snow for the next 5 months of travel, masking the severity of a locked drive train. No recalls were out, we thought maybe we needed tires. Now at 66k miles, there is a strain on the entire drive train and tires, whenever turning, accepting, I would further speculate, that this has put excessive wear on the CV/half shafts, wheel bearings, and related components. Although there’s a system failure, No codes have been thrown. Vehicle Speed Sensors and system, and or the ABS system should have noted some kind of error. While numerous complaints have arose accross varying ford models, no recalls issued. Ford may honor some repair costs. The location and nature of the initial failing unit, the rear differential, as its not part of routine maintenance, Would lead to an increase accross all related components and systems, which would lead to vehicle failure. Possibly causing loss of life or serous physical harm.

NHTSA ODI 11690302

The gear shift module for my 2020 Ford Escape is detaching and sinking below where it is attached in the car. The gear shift isn't working correctly and sometimes operates as if it is in a different gear than what I shift the circular knob to be in gear for... P N R D (park, neutral, reverse, drive). Sometimes I put it into reverse but the car acts like it is in drive. This has cause some very dangerous near accidents with myself and my children in the car. The 2020 Ford Escape has been the worst car I have ever owned and is constantly falling apart. It has had over 10+ recalls since I purchased my car. I hope they will get this problem recalled before I am injured in a serious accident. I have attached pictures to show what it SHOULD look like if attached properly and what is looks like in MY BROKEN CAR.

NHTSA ODI 11690437

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. An independent mechanic was contacted regarding the failure and the mechanic acknowledged that several other similar vehicles had experienced the same failure with the transmission. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

NHTSA ODI 11689890

On 9/15/2025, my 2020 Ford Escape SE began experiencing serious electrical and shift system issues: hard downshifting, “Shift System Fault” warning, inability to go into park, and failure to shut off without disconnecting the battery. I confirmed a related PCM recall was active and had the vehicle towed to Art Hill Ford for diagnostic and recall service. The dealership refused to perform the PCM recall, claiming my issue “didn’t match” the symptoms — despite clear electrical failure. Instead, they diagnosed a park pawl solenoid issue without scanning or physically inspecting the vehicle. I was told the issue was resolved, paid ~$1,400, and picked up the vehicle. Within 24 hours, new and dangerous transmission issues arose: harsh downshifting, loss of power, sudden high RPMs, and dashboard warnings. I became stranded in the middle of the road and had to have the car towed again. After this second visit, the dealer claimed there were metal shavings in the transmission and now says I need a full transmission replacement (~$10,000). These shavings were not reported during their first transmission disassembly — which is highly suspicious and may indicate the damage was caused during or after their service. Replacing transmission fluid on high-mileage vehicles (mine has ~132,000 miles) is known to be risky and can cause internal failure if not done carefully. My transmission had no mechanical problems prior to this visit. I now believe the dealership’s misdiagnosis, failure to perform the PCM safety recall 1st, and service caused a safety-critical failure that they are refusing to take responsibility for. I am a veteran with a pregnant wife — we depend on this vehicle. Ford corporate has not provided assistance. This situation has left me without transportation and potentially with catastrophic repair costs due to service-related damage.

NHTSA ODI 11689775

The primary component that failed is the turbocharger system, which has malfunctioned five times since October 2024. Additional failures include the catalytic converter, and there is now suspected motor damage. These components are currently in possession of the dealership and are available for inspection upon request. The safety of myself and my children was repeatedly put at risk. The first turbocharger failure left us stranded in early morning traffic, with no engine power and limited ability to exit the roadway safely. Subsequent failures occurred within 24 hours of service completion. These breakdowns created dangerous roadside conditions, especially during high-traffic hours and in areas without safe pull-off zones. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed multiple times by the dealership’s service department. Each turbocharger replacement has failed within days, and the vehicle is currently awaiting its fifth turbocharger in two months. The dealership has also confirmed damage to the catalytic converter and now suspects motor damage. The vehicle has been inspected repeatedly by the dealership, which is in contact with Ford Motor Company. However, Ford has not provided a permanent solution or acknowledged the root cause. No inspections have been conducted by police or insurance representatives at this time. Prior to second breakdown; the FordPass app displayed an oil life warning at 0%, which was reportedly reset by the service department, raising concerns about system accuracy. The vehicle has also triggered diagnostic codes P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) and P0234 (Turbocharger Overboost Condition), both of which are consistent with the mechanical failures observed. Additionally, Manufacturer Recall 25S76 was acknowledged, but when asked whether the fuel injectors had been inspected, the technician stated they would only be replaced if a fuel leak or smell was present. This reactive approach contradicts the intent of the recall.

NHTSA ODI 11688277

Purchased certified vehicle from Wray Ford on 2/23/24. Car was previously leased by FMCC and still listed as a Ford Fleet Vehicle in Michigan as of 9/12/25. VIN confirms it falls under Ford safety recall 24S79, which was never performed. Vehicle experienced unintended acceleration and non-responsive braking, behaving autonomously. FordPass Connect, FMCC, and Wray Ford all confirmed it was unsafe to drive based on 38 diagnostic codes from July/August 2025. June 2025 data and other dates were blacked out. No warning lights or alerts appeared in the FordPass app prior to the crash on 8/25/25.Allstate Insurance removed the vehicle from Wray Ford without authorization, falsely claimed a $10,000 salvage offer, and altered the accident date in the online portal. Damage estimates were manipulated: initial $4,500 based on five photos, later inflated to $13,195 using the same photos. Shreve Collision’s manager confirmed no estimate was performed, contradicting Allstate’s claims. Allstate appears to be shielding Ford from liability. The vehicle is no longer in my possession, but documentation and diagnostic records are preserved. I believe Ford concealed a critical defect and suppressed diagnostic data, putting my safety and others at serious risk.I have contacted FORD and they are stalling and have misrepresented to me many things. They admitted that they can access FORDPASS CONNECT DATA remotely and their agent stated driving this vehicle is not an option. I have almost been involved in prior accidents because of hidden defect in my car. My son has audio recordings, transcripts, Ford Pass Connect Data. We believe Allstate changed the date of the accident to throw off a forensic examinator. I have proof of Allstate changing the accident date and removing documents. This is really a serious breach by Allstate and Ford. I am 80 years old, and if it was not for my son I would have never known this and my son is half owner of the car and is very concerned for my safety.

NHTSA ODI 11687233

Powertrain control module failure causing vehicle to lose power and engine to run at 5 to 6 RPMs. and transmission not shifting properly. Vehicle is going into limp mode and will also shut down while driving but the engine stays running and the cruise does not shut off. There is not remedy for the recall that I believe is causing these issues. This has been going on for 6 month. This vehicle has been nothing but a problem.

NHTSA ODI 11687244

My car togs a lot. My tire sensors keep going out. I've smelt gas before while driving. It's very slow going up hill. I hear grinding sounds intermittently

NHTSA ODI 11687030

Summary: Failure of AWD/transfer case control module causing loss of multiple safety and driveline functions. Vehicle is currently being repaired at Ford dealership so will have already been corrected. While driving, multiple dash warnings appeared: “Service AdvanceTrac,” “AWD Not Available,” “Hill Start Assist Not Available,” and “Drive Mode Not Available.” The vehicle lost all all-wheel-drive functionality as well as traction/stability features. Dealer diagnosed an internal failure of the AWD/transfer case control module. Safety Impact: This failure disables critical safety systems (AdvanceTrac stability control, Hill Start Assist, AWD traction). In poor weather or emergency maneuvers, loss of these systems could increase the risk of crash. Repair Estimate: Dealer quoted ~$1,070 for replacement of AWD control module (parts, labor, and programming). Concern: This is a major driveline and safety system failure at only 40,000 miles. Ford previously acknowledged AWD module defects in 2020 Escapes under Customer Satisfaction Program 21B19, which suggests this may be a broader issue that warrants investigation or recall.

NHTSA ODI 11686792

There are many thousands of Ford Escape owners with this same issue. The shifter knob will not shift out of park in hot weather, sometimes taking 20 to 30 minutes for the vehicle's interior to cool sufficiently to shift into drive. Ford is ignoring this problem. I don't understand why they are looking the other way and not fixing this well-known issue.

NHTSA ODI 11685281

Vehicle has active alerts for powertrain control module, and low boost pressure with the turbocharge along with emissions codes P0299, P0496 and P0456. The vehicle is constantly going into deep sleep mode. While driving the vehicle started to enter safe mode. And displayed an alert that said please turn ignition on. The dash and screen went black like vehicle was off but it was still running. This happened multiple times. My vehicle also will not start after pumping gas so I have to leave vehicle running every time I pump gas. My vehicle will not pass NY state inspection because of the recalls.

NHTSA ODI 11684859

2020 ford escape titanium with 28111 miles on it throwing A VERY COMMOM error “AWD fault” the amount of these at this point should be recalled.

NHTSA ODI 11682594

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 15 MPH, the vehicle experienced a complete loss of automotive power with the “Service Vehicle Soon” light illuminated. The vehicle came to a complete stop in the middle of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the powertrain was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 62,000.

NHTSA ODI 11682375

Around the 38,000 mile mark on our 2020 Ford Escape we received many different errors (AWD Fault, ABS, AdvanceTrac Service, Hill assist, etc). I found out via NHTSA and other forums that this is a common issue in the vehicle from the AWD module, and although it is AWD related, it is not eligible for the Powertrain warranty per Ford because it is an electrical component. I declined the $1200 repair at the dealership so I could first call Ford Customer Service, at the recommendation of the dealership, though the Service Tech did mention it is a safety concern because the ABS is apparently also controlled by the AWD. After a couple different calls to Ford, they have refused to acknowledge that it is a manufacturer defect, or pay for the repair. With no help from Ford, I have no other option than to file a complaint here. Based on other resources online, the issue seems to stem from improper grounding of the wiring on the AWD module.

NHTSA ODI 11682439

2020 Ford Escape SEL was taken into Ford Service Center for oil change and to address acceleration issue that started two days prior, (check engine light had come on the day before drop off). One week after dropping my vehicle off to be assessed, I was told I needed a small part and it would be complete in 3 days. Another week went by, so I reached out and was told that I need a new engine because of a known Ford issue. Unknown to me, coolant was leaking into the engine and destroyed it. I was assured by the Ford technician that this was a known issue and the problem did not arise from something I did/did not do. I was quoted over $9k and weeks worth of work. I easily drove the vehicle to the Service Center, but was told it is now no longer drivable. I drive a LOT for work and had only had the vehicle for 15 months, still owing over $16k on my auto loan. I had no choice but to purchase a new (NOT FORD) vehicle and am now stuck with two vehicle payments. Vehicle is still sitting at the Ford Service Center while I pay on it monthly.

NHTSA ODI 11681753

The contact called on behalf of the owner of a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light and multiple warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle and found metal shavings inside the transmission, with a burn odor coming from the transmission. The contact's daughter was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure persisted, and the vehicle remained at the residence unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA ODI 11680627

AWD FAULT, PRE-COLLISION ASSIST AND HILL START ASSIST WARNINGS DISPLAYING IN CLUSTER.

NHTSA ODI 11677401

Car was jerking during acceleration. RPM needle was bouncing while accelerating. It felt like there was a loss of power. Brought it to a Ford Dealership and they were unable to find a problem directly related to this issue. They took care of other problems such as the fuel sensor. Brought it to a transmission specialist and they said the torque converter was bad and need to be replaced. Car has 89k miles on it.

NHTSA ODI 11676981

Shortly after having new tires installed at the dealership the following warnings displayed: AWD Fault Service Required, Hill Start Assist, Pre-Collision and Traccontrol. Mileage was around 10,700, June 2025. Dealer unable to look at until July 2025. Advised that the RDU motor needed replacement. Replacement was completed 7/23/25. The vehicle was 5 months past the Powertrain warranty. So out of pocket was over $1,900. Given the low mileage on the vehicle it seems that this should not have happened. Research here and other websites indicate this is a known issue. The dealer indicated the same.

NHTSA ODI 11676499

Power Train Fault Indicator came on indicating that the Turbo Charger was in an underboost condition. This caused the vehicle to lose power on the highway which could have placed my family in a unsafe condition.

NHTSA ODI 11676222

Component: Powertrain / Transmission Vehicle: 2020 Ford Escape Mileage at failure: 53,500 Transmission began violently jerking, hesitating, and mis-shifting around 53,000 miles. Brought to Ford of Sunnyvale on May 2, 2025 where the dealership diagnosed complete transmission failure. Instead of replacing, they installed a software update that masked the problem for a few weeks before it returned worse. Vehicle is now unsafe to drive — surging, delayed shifting, unpredictable acceleration — especially dangerous for highway merging or family use. This is a known issue with Ford’s 8F35 transmission. Ford TSB 22-2281 documents widespread failures and need for planetary gear replacement. What’s more concerning is that this failure occurred within what should have been the 5-year/60k powertrain warranty. Ford denied full coverage based on a hidden warranty start date from demo use. I was never informed at lease that the warranty had started 6 months earlier. My wife drives our two small children in this car, and it is now unsafe and undrivable. Ford should be held accountable not only for the mechanical failure, but for masking the problem and compromising customer safety.

NHTSA ODI 11675798

I started experiencing transmission issues with my vehicle around 80,000 miles. When I initially brought it to a Ford dealership for inspection, I was told there was nothing wrong—despite also reporting other concerns with the vehicle. The jerking and shifting issues continued over the following months and became more frequent. Once the vehicle reached just over 100,000 miles, I returned to the dealership and was then informed that the transmission had failed. This was frustrating, as I had been reporting symptoms for a long time with no resolution. To this day, no warning lights or dashboard messages have appeared to indicate any transmission issues.No warning lights, messages, or diagnostic codes appeared before or during the progression of this issue. The only symptom has been the physical jerking and irregular shifting, which first appeared around 80,000 miles. I have a case number with Ford.

NHTSA ODI 11675568

When it's hot outside, the car will not shift out of park.

NHTSA ODI 11674935

Transmission shredded internally after piston blew.

NHTSA ODI 11672941