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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Ford Escape

The 2021 Ford Escape shows a significant number of recalls and owner complaints, suggesting potential reliability concerns. The issues range widely from engine problems to electrical and safety features. Due to the volume of complaints and recalls, prospective buyers should conduct thorough checks. Given limited recall information for some specific issues, general caution is advised when inspecting this model.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2021 Ford Escape has 19 NHTSA recall campaigns and 354 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 4 NHTSA-tested trims.

Recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Structure 92 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 59 complaints
  • Fuel System, Gasoline 46 complaints
  • Power Train 46 complaints
  • Engine 44 complaints
  • Service Brakes 40 complaints

Of the 354 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 354 complaints, owners report 5 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2021 Ford Escape

Known issues to inspect

high severityengine

Fuel injector leaks

How to check: Inspect engine bay for fuel smells or wetness.

medium severityelectrical

Battery system failure

How to check: Check for warning lights related to battery or powertrain.

medium severitybrakes

Rear brake performance issues

How to check: Test braking ability; see if it feels weak.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Examine for unusual noises or vibrations.

    Red flag: Knocking or rattling sounds

  2. 02

    First minute idling

    What to check: Monitor for dashboard warning lights.

    Red flag: Persistent warning lights

  3. 03

    Low-speed driving

    What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.

    Red flag: Poor braking response

  4. 04

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Check if acceleration is smooth and steady.

    Red flag: Hesitation or power loss

  5. 05

    Stop and reverse

    What to check: Observe rear camera image for issues.

    Red flag: Blurred or distorted image

  6. 06

    AC and electronics

    What to check: Ensure all controls and displays function.

    Red flag: Flickering or non-responsive controls

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Has the fuel injector been replaced?
  2. Were there any engine issues reported?
  3. Are there recent repairs on the electrical system?
  4. Have all recalls been addressed?
  5. What is the maintenance history?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Recall repair documentation
  • Full maintenance records
  • Original purchase invoice
  • Warranty information
  • Title and registration

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Ford Escape at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2021 Ford Escape Reliability forecast Ford Escape reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

Looking at a specific 2021 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.

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