Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Ford Escape
The 2009 Ford Escape has a significant number of owner complaints, primarily related to steering and powertrain issues, with three recall campaigns. Despite some concerns, it's important to assess each vehicle individually, as issues may not be present on all units.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Ford Escape has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,693 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15E045000 Front Wheel Bearing has Wrong Dimensions NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V284000 Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10E043000 AFTERMARKET SEAT COVER NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 828 complaints
- Power Train 301 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 279 complaints
- Engine 254 complaints
- Electrical System 143 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 116 complaints
Of the 1,693 complaints on file, 34 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 1,693 complaints, owners report 17 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
EPS system may fail
How to check: Test steering responsiveness and ease of turning the wheel.
Powertrain problems reported
How to check: Verify smooth shifting and listen for unusual noises.
Engine complaints reported
How to check: Inspect for smooth idle and any warning lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Look for warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or loud ticking
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Steering response and ease of turns.
Red flag: Resistance or noise while steering
- 04
Normal acceleration
What to check: Transmission shifts smoothly.
Red flag: Shuddering or harsh shifts
- 05
Highway speed
What to check: Vehicle stability and steering control.
Red flag: Wandering or vibration
- 06
Braking
What to check: Brakes feel firm and responsive.
Red flag: Spongy pedals or pulling
- 07
Parking
What to check: Listen for any unusual noises while parking.
Red flag: Grinding or clunking noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering issue been repaired?
- Any unresolved recalls on this vehicle?
- When was the last service done?
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Is the transmission original or rebuilt?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title
- Emission test records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Ford Escape at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 Ford Escape? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.