Purchasing a new vehicle, such as the Ford Escape, is an exhilarating experience. However, recent recalls have sparked apprehension among owners. Ford is currently contending with a series of recalls, particularly affecting 2022-2023 Escapes, which have cast a shadow over this popular model for buyers.
It’s imperative for owners whose cars fall under these recalls to address the issues promptly for their safety and financial stability. Below, we’ll delve into the recent recalls, potential problems like engine fires, gas leaks, and oil leaks, and how to ascertain if your vehicle is impacted. Moreover, we’ll discuss the avenues available to Ford Escape owners, including filing a lemon claim for serious and recurrent manufacturing defects. If you’re grappling with persistent warranty issues, our adept lemon law atorneys at Johnson & Buxton – The Lemon Law Guys are at your service.
4 Recent Ford Escape Recalls That Demand Atention
Automakers typically issue recalls upon discovering manufacturing defects that jeopardize vehicle safety. Here are four alarming safety issues that have prompted Ford to recall 2022-2023 Escapes over the past year:
1. Instrument Panel Failures: 38,695 Vehicles Affected
A recent recall for the Escape revolves around instrument panel malfunctions. In July 2023, the manufacturer recalled 38,695 2023 Escapes and Super Duty trucks due to flawed digital instrument panels. These panels were improperly soldered, potentially causing illumination failures.
These vehicles rely on digital instrument displays, so the absence of a functioning panel means vital information such as speed or fuel level cannot be monitored while driving. If you’ve encountered any irregularities with your instrument panel, it’s crucial to ascertain whether your Escape is subject to this recall.
2. Engine Failures and Fires: 125,322 Vehicles Affected
One of the most disconcerting recalls pertains to engine failures and the risk of fires. Multiple recalls for the Escape address issues that could lead to engine failures or fires while the vehicle is in operation.
In May 2023, Ford recalled 125,322 vehicles, including 2020-2023 Escapes, 2022-2023 Mavericks, and 2021-2023 Corsairs, due to a problem that could release engine oil and fuel vapor into the engine compartment in the event of engine failure, posing a significant fire hazard. Ford advised owners to promptly pull over and turn off the engine upon noticing any signs of engine trouble, unusual noises, or warning lights to prevent fires.
This recall expands on a July 2022 recall affecting 100,689 Mavericks, Escapes, and Corsairs. Unfortunately, the manufacturer identified additional issues that could jeopardize owners’ safety and necessitated further action.
3. Cracked Fuel Injectors: 521,746 Vehicles Affected
In November 2022, Ford recalled 512,746 2020-2023 Escapes and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles due to faulty fuel injectors prone to cracking, leading to fuel leakage into the engine and potential fires. Owners should remain vigilant for signs of fuel odors, reduced fuel efficiency, or
visible leaks around the engine area. If any such issues arise, it’s imperative to check if your Ford Escape is part of the recall.
4. Oil Leaks: 345,451 Vehicles Affected
Certain Ford Escape models are also plagued by oil leaks. In March 2022, the automaker recalled 345,451 2020-2022 Escapes and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles due to a defective engine oil separator housing prone to cracking and leaking oil into the engine compartment. While an oil leak may appear minor, it can escalate into more severe problems affecting engine performance and potentially leading to costly repairs, posing a significant fire risk. Owners should monitor their vehicles for any signs of oil leaks and consult with a Ford dealership if concerns arise.
Seeking Assistance for Ongoing Warranty Defects
These recalls represent just a selection of potential manufacturing defects you may encounter in your brand-new Escape. If you’re contending with persistent manufacturing defects in your new car, taking proactive steps to safeguard your consumer rights is paramount. Here’s what you can do:
1. Check for Recalls: Begin by checking for recalls. Visit the official Ford website or contact your local dealership to confirm if your Ford Escape is subject to any recalls. You can also consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to determine if the recall impacts your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
2. Document Issues: Maintain meticulous records of any problems, repairs, or correspondence with Ford and dealership representatives. This documentation will prove invaluable if you decide to pursue a lemon claim.
3. Understand Lemon Law Rights: Familiarize yourself with Lemon Law Rights in California. If your Escape experiences recurring, unresolved issues covered by the warranty, you may be entitled to compensation, a replacement vehicle, or a refund.
