2021 Ford Escape Hybrid
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 178 |
| 2006 | 219 |
| 2007 | 124 |
| 2008 | 443 |
| 2009 | 153 |
| 2010 | 59 |
| 2011 | 37 |
| 2012 | 15 |
| 2013 | 5 |
| 2020 | 286 |
| 2021 | 122 |
| 2022 | 67 |
| 2023 | 23 |
| 2024 | 4 |
| 2025 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
30% of complaints: engine — 36 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
On Saturday at approximately 8:25 p.m., my 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid SEL abruptly entered limp mode while traveling on a major highway.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260908
Also filed under POWER TRAIN
26% of complaints: structure — 32 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing body and door.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Door fails to stay open. Closed on my leg and caused bruising. Window will not close once open. Dealer has known of problem for two months but says there is no one locally to fix it.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250123
Subject: Formal Complaint â Recall 23B56 & 23S27 + Rental Car Reimbursement Demand â McCombs Ford (7111 NW Loop 410) To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding the unacceptable service I experienced at McCombs...
NHTSA ODI report, 20260715
The door check arm on the driver's side door weld broke. Before it happened, it would make a noise when closing before it broke. The dealer has confirmed it and wants to replace the whole door.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230915
18% of complaints: electrical system — 22 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing wiring harness and propulsion system.
11% of complaints: power train — 13 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated and failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260730
Also filed under VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
7% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed March 2, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 21, 2022.
Campaign 22V109000 — check if this car was fixed
Pedestrian alert sounds
Failed Door Check Arm Attachment Point
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Ford Escape Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (36 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (32 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (22 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V109000 (engine and engine cooling) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 30% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.