What 220 owners told NHTSA about the 2022 Ford Escape

I press on the gas pedal and the car won't move. I will be at a stop sign and I'll remove my foot from the break, step on the gas and the car stalls it won't really go. I almost have to floor it to get it to move. Has happened multiple times.

NHTSA ODI 11744396

Shortly after purchasing my 2022 Ford Escape, I began experiencing hesitation during acceleration, loss of power, RPM fluctuations, loud howling and whining noises, grinding noises, exhaust-related rattling, coolant bubbling, and a strong sulfur/rotten egg odor. The problems were reported repeatedly to the selling dealer and Ford service departments. Despite multiple complaints, I was repeatedly told nothing was wrong with the vehicle. The vehicle continued to deteriorate and now struggles to accelerate and produces extremely loud noises during operation. The condition creates a safety concern because the vehicle does not respond normally when accelerating and may not be able to maintain speed safely in traffic. I also discovered an open safety recall involving a potentially cracked fuel injector that could allow fuel or fuel vapor to accumulate on the engine and create a fire risk. The recall remains incomplete because a remedy is not currently available. The vehicle has been inspected by dealership service departments and an independent transmission specialist. The problems have been ongoing since shortly after purchase and continue to worsen.

NHTSA ODI 11743915

Vehicle has trouble turning back on after filling with gas. The engine clicks and sometimes will not start back up without a jump. The battery has been replaced. The check engine light is on.

NHTSA ODI 11743448

Recall 25S76 manufacturer recall ID 25V467 NHTSA recall ID has been pending with an unavailable remedy for almost a year. I find this an unreasonable amount of time for this type of recall as this is a big safety issue.

NHTSA ODI 11742976

There is fluid accumulation under the engine air filter assembly.

NHTSA ODI 11733748

On March 31st, 2026, while traveling at approximately 60 mph on a major highway, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic engine failure without prior warning. The "Check Engine" and "Powertrain Malfunction" (Wrench) lights illuminated, and the vehicle experienced an immediate and total loss of motive power. This created a high-risk safety situation for myself (luckily my daughter was not with me at the time), I was forced navigate through high-speed traffic to the shoulder with no engine propulsion. Technical Confirmation: The vehicle was towed to Dick Smith Ford (Columbia, SC). A diagnostic scan revealed fault code P032F (Combustion Engine Producing Insufficient Torque). The dealership confirmed the failure was internal and required a total Long Block Engine Assembly replacement in accordance with CSP 23NC06 (Reference RO #259050). Failure of Previous Safety Recall: Crucially, this vehicle had already received the "remedy" for Recall 23S27 / NHTSA Campaign 23V440000 (Engine Fire Risk). Despite Ford's claim that the software update and grill shutter modifications mitigated the risk of catastrophic failure and fire, the engine still suffered a major breach and total failure at highway speeds. This demonstrates that the current recall remedy is insufficient to protect occupants from sudden loss of power or potential fire hazards.

NHTSA ODI 11733190

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment and underneath the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the brakes needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the cause of the failure was not yet determined; however, the mechanic determined that the brakes were not responsible for the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

NHTSA ODI 11731080

The power window on our 2022 Ford Escape will remain down after being rolled down and cannot be raised. This issue has occurred three separate times. When it happens, the vehicle cannot be secured and is exposed to weather and theft. The failure appears to be intermittent but recurring, indicating a possible design or electrical defect rather than misuse. This creates a safety and security risk, especially if the failure occurs while away from home or during bad weather. This problem has happened multiple times and is not resolved by normal operation of the window switch. Engine problems are occurring as well due to the stated recalls provided by nhtsa.

NHTSA ODI 11725185

The Incident: While traveling at highway speeds on a public freeway, the engine suffered a catastrophic failure and stalled without warning. This caused an immediate loss of propulsion, power steering, and power braking. I was forced to navigate the vehicle across multiple lanes of high-speed traffic with no engine power, nearly resulting in a fatal collision. Background and Safety Risk: This is the second terminal engine failure this vehicle has suffered in under 60,000 miles. The first engine was replaced by a Ford dealer at approximately 30,000 miles due to a similar failure. The replacement engine has now failed at approximately 53,000 miles. This vehicle is also subject to Safety Recall 25S76 (Fuel Injector/Fire Hazard). Current Status: The defect has been confirmed by a Ford dealership which previously performed a full engine replacement. The manufacturer has not provided a permanent remedy for the current failure or the active fire recall. The vehicle remains a substantial and life-threatening safety risk to the driver and the public. No warning lights or symptoms appeared prior to the sudden engine shut-off at freeway speeds.

NHTSA ODI 11721960

A car started jerking erratically. I put it in, drive or reverse. And the light on the transmission selector would just blink on and off and it would not go in gear when it did finally go in gear. It would not shift out of fourth gear. We'll erratic transmission would not shift cars behind me had to hit their brakes. Because my vehicle would not move very dangerous. I took the vehicle in the Ford. They said it needs a transmission. I've got 65000 miles on this vehicle. It's 5000 miles past a warranty. Warning light did come on. My vehicle is now at an independent transmission shop and they say, I need a new transmission. I don't have the money to fix this. And Ford is wrong if we're not correcting it i will have the documents today. We're ford, it would only give me a small $7000 trade in allowance. Because it needed a transmission. I will be receiving the paperwork from Ford and the paperwork from the transmission shop that has my vehicle. Thank you.

NHTSA ODI 11707474

Engine light is now on and when i fill my car up with gas it has a stall and takes 3-4 times to turn on. My safety is at risk if this recall is not repaired and my car catches fire. Started a month ago and it's challenging to schedule with Ford.

NHTSA ODI 11706845

A Terrifying Ordeal and a Broken Promise: M.A’s Story A Known Danger Ignored In August 2025, M.A, a [XXX] woman living with Multiple Sclerosis, received a letter from Ford Motor Company. It was a recall notice for her 2022 Ford Escape, warning that a defect in the turbo system could cause engine fires. Despite this known danger, the letter contained a chilling instruction: there was "no recommendation to stop operating the vehicle." Trusting the manufacturer, M.A continued to drive her car—her essential link to independence. A Nightmare on the Road Two months later, in October 2025, that trust nearly cost M.A her life. While driving in Windsor, Ontario, she saw smoke, then flames erupt from under the hood. In a horrifying instant, the engine compartment burst into fire. Paralyzed by panic—a "brain freeze" moment where she couldn't even unlock her door—she was trapped. Only with the help of bystanders was she pulled to safety, where she watched helplessly as her car and everything she owned—clothes, jewelry, two laptops, an iPad, and three suitcases—were consumed by flames. Physical and Emotional Devastation The fire was extinguished, and the car was towed away, but the damage to M.A’s life was just beginning. The traumatic event triggered a severe relapse of her Multiple Sclerosis, worsening her physical disability. The profound stress and sadness have been overwhelming. She is now without a vehicle, struggling daily with lost mobility and independence. Abandoned by the Company at Fault When M.A contacted Ford for help, seeking accountability for the defect they had already acknowledged, she was met with indifference. Customer service representatives, both by phone and on Facebook, directed her only to her insurance company, washing their hands of responsibility for the catastrophic failure their recall had warned about INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11706397

Recall has been issued since 7/16/25 and a serious safety risk issue has not been resolve. It is mentally draining and scary that whenever we drive our car there is always a risk of safety like car catching on fire. We have been patiently waiting for a long time now. Consumer safety should always be a priority specially we have 2 kids inside the car.

NHTSA ODI 11698864

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the vehicle began to skid, and there was smoke coming from the engine and the exhaust. The wrench symbol was displayed. The engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the turbocharger and the engine became inoperable. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were on backorder. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The contact stated that the manufacturer stated that there would be no action unless the vehicle blew up or there was a fatality. The failure mileage was approximately 49,100.

NHTSA ODI 11697892

I am writing to formally demand immediate action regarding my 2022 Ford Escape, VIN [XXX] a 0% financing plan and Ford’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Since purchase, the Escape has suffered serious safety defects, including gasoline fumes inside the cabin, burning odors, and repeated performance failures tied to the fuel system. On [XXX] and again on [XXX], the vehicle flamed up while being driven, requiring emergency intervention to extinguish. In August 2025, Ford issued Safety Recall 25S76, admitting that these vehicles may suffer fuel injector cracking, fuel leaks, and under-hood fires while being driven. Ford further admitted that no permanent repair remedy exists. The interim software update provided does not correct the defect. As a retired U.S. Army Combat Medic and Purple Heart recipient, I live with PTSD triggered by vehicle fires and explosions. The Escape’s condition has placed me in a state of medical crisis, making it impossible for me to safely operate the vehicle. FORD HAS DISCONTINUED THE LINE. I WANT A REPLACEMENT CAR OR I WANT TO BE COMPENSATED FOR THE RISK OF LOSS OF LIFE IF I DRIVE THE CAR. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11697416

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with several unknown codes. The contact stated that the diagnostic codes were like the failure description for the unrepaired recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part for the recall repair was not available. The contact explained to the dealer about the unrepaired recall; however, the contact was informed that the repair had already been performed on the vehicle. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair would not be performed a second time free of charge. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,500.

NHTSA ODI 11695389

I am the owner of a 2022 Ford Escape experiencing a serious issues: My vehicle is subject to NHTSA Recall 25V467 / Ford Recall 25S76, concerning the potential for a cracked fuel injector leading to fuel accumulation on top of the engine—a serious fire hazard. According to NHTSA, there is currently no remedy available. This adds another layer of safety concern, particularly considering the compounding risks and Ford’s delay in delivering a fix a pending recall involving potential engine fires, I am deeply concerned about the safety and reliability of my vehicle. I am asking that my concerns be formally investigated and that Ford take appropriate responsibility for repairs, reimbursement (if applicable), or an expanded VIN inclusion under the CSP.

NHTSA ODI 11677082

Problem with fuel injectors. Car has a very rough idle when cold. Also while driving there is a rough idle from the engine.

NHTSA ODI 11651307

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. The local dealer was notified of the failure; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V191000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

NHTSA ODI 11646567

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact noticed a burning odor in the interior of the vehicle. The diagnostic scanner was attached and the received code was P0299. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was scheduled to be taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing within the next several days. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,400.

NHTSA ODI 11632519

MY 2022 Ford Escape THE ENGINE SHAKES REALLY BAD THERE ARE NEW BRAKES PADS ON MY CAR AND MY RIMS ARE FILL WITH DUST FROM THE BRAKES

NHTSA ODI 11620900

Since purchase airbags light stays on reported this several times! Next engine oil has been leaking on hot parts of engine report to manufacturer and they are doing nothing this is my only vehicle! This could cause a fire! Several vehicles same year and model same problem!

NHTSA ODI 11619459

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle briefly hesitated and was sluggish before returning to normal functionality. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 20,000.

NHTSA ODI 11602379

I had recalls and problems since I first got the Car SUV Ford escape 2022 I never had so many issues Within 1 month I had to go back from some issues they had to fix see attached documents I SUV stalled on Virginia route 28 Luckly it was on the exit lane that I was able to stop and restart my engine I reported this to Ford dealership they supposedly fixed it but I am scared since I feel the problems are going to cost me in the long run I asked the dealership for an exchange they denied me I feel this is not fair I don't need a barely 1 year old SUV ford to have more problems on year 2 and 3 please help

NHTSA ODI 11525298

The contact owned a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact heard two loud explosions, when the contact looked outside the vehicle was in flames, causing the siding of the contact's home siding to melt. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated, but the contact smelled an odor of fuel coming from the vehicle before the explosion. No one was injured and a police report was filed. The fire department was able to extinguish the flames. The vehicle was not towed. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 1,500.

NHTSA ODI 11520472