2013 FORD ESCAPE Recalls — Canada & USA

The 2013 Ford Escape has 20 recalls, the most serious being a cluster of fire risks tied to the 1.6L engine, where cracked cylinder heads, dislodged coolant plugs, and fuel lines that can split or chafe may all lead to engine compartment fires. Several of these 1.6L engine fire risks are connected: cylinder head cracks allow oil to reach hot exhaust surfaces, coolant loss from a dislodged freeze plug can cause overheating that ignites remaining fluids, and fuel lines on certain vehicles can split or, in some cases, were improperly reinstalled during an earlier repair attempt and can wear through. A separate fire-related issue involves the shifter cable bushing, which can degrade or fall off and cause the vehicle to move in an unintended direction. On the occupant safety side, a wiring fault in the restraint system can prevent airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from firing correctly in a crash, and the software controlling side curtain rollover airbags can delay their deployment. The front seatback recliner welds may also be inadequate, allowing the seatback to loosen or lean. Door latches can fail to hold securely, and a misalignment between the exterior door handle and door panel can cause a door to open while driving. Carpet padding installed too close to the pedals can interfere with foot movement from the accelerator to the brake, increasing stopping distances. There is also a wiring splice issue near the engine sensor that can cause hesitation or stalling.