Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Ford Escape
The 2018 Ford Escape faces notable issues with the engine, transmission, and brakes, further underscored by high complaints and several recalls. Check for engine coolant leaks and shifter cable detachment, as these are critical. Ensure recall work has been completed to avoid safety risks.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Ford Escape has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,823 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V011000 Engine Block Heater May Short Circuit and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V413000 Unintentional Rollaway Due to Detached Shift Cable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V104000 Incorrect Brake Hoses may Chafe NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V803000 Inflator Component may Detach During Deployment NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 1,171 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 345 complaints
- Power Train 276 complaints
- Unknown or Other 107 complaints
- Electrical System 57 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 45 complaints
Of the 1,823 complaints on file, 26 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 1,823 complaints, owners report 30 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Coolant leaks with engine heater
How to check: Inspect engine block for coolant leaks, especially near heater.
Shifter cable may detach
How to check: Check shifter cable connection is secure and functions smoothly.
Brake fluid leaks from hoses
How to check: Look for signs of brake fluid under front hoses.
Side airbag deployment issue
How to check: Confirm recall service for side airbag deployment was done.
Over 1100 engine complaints
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises, check for warning lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises or vibration.
Red flag: Loud knocking or persistent shaking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Watch for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Engine or transmission warning lights
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth and responsive gear shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed transmission shifts
- 04
City driving
What to check: Feel for brake performance and pedal pressure.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or delayed stopping
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe engine power and noise levels.
Red flag: Loss of power or excessive noise
- 06
Braking from speed
What to check: Check for stability and brake effectiveness.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling when braking
- 07
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Test steering responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Steering wheel noise or stiffness
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the shifter cable been replaced?
- Were recall repairs completed?
- Any known engine issues or repairs?
- Has the engine block heater been used?
- Are there brake hose issues?
- Have the airbag recalls been addressed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Maintenance records
- Title and ownership proof
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Ford Escape at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 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.