2017 Ford Escape problems: common reliability issues
The popular 2017 Ford Escape offers some great advantages, but also has some reliability issues.
These are the most common problems with the 2017 Escape as reported by owners.
The most common problems with used 2017 Ford Escapes
The most common major problems as reported by 2017 Ford Escape owners on forums like Reddit and RepairPal are:
- Brakes suddenly become difficult to press. Cost to fix: $400
- Engine stumbles/hesitates. Cost to fix: $600
- Electric throttle body problems. Cost to fix: $500
All 2017 Ford Escape problems by category:
2017 Ford Escape brake problems: Brakes suddenly become difficult to press
The most commonly-reported issue are brake failures, where the brakes suddenly become difficult to press. Here’s a quote from an Escape owner:
[The] brake pedal is very hard to press. Need to press extremely hard on the brakes pedal to stop the vehicle.
Other owners report the brakes failing while the vehicle is in motion, which is very dangerous.
Cost to fix:
If the issue is just brake pads, you can get a full set replaced for $300-400.
If the brakes suddenly lose pressure & become difficult to press or operate, the vacuum pump for the brakes (sometimes called a ‘brake booster’) has likely failed. This also typically costs about $400 to replace.
2017 Ford Escape electronic throttle body problems
The electronic throttle body or ETB in the 2017 Ford Escapes has a tendency to underperform. The ETB measures the driver’s impact on the acceleration pedal. It uses a computer and sensors to shift the throttle blade based on the pedal’s data. The Ford Escape has had issues with several models throughout the years. The estimate for this repair ranges from $464-$544.
ARE YOU ABOUT TO BUY A RECALLED VEHICLE?
Factory recalls are issued when a vehicle fails to meet safety or quality standards. If you’re shopping for a used car, see if any factory recalls have been issued before buying.
The following is a quote from a 2017 Ford Escape owner with ETB issues: “Vehicle went into limp mode with no throttle response the first day I owned it. It left me on interstate I 90 having to shut off the car and try to restart it. The dealer could not fix the problem. It happened 4 times in 12k miles. I returned the vehicle to the dealer as they could not find the problem after replacing several defective electronic parts. The vehicle was going to get somebody killed. It was not going to be me and my 14 year old son. I understand that they have auctioned this vehicle off after dismissing the safety concerns.”
2017 Ford Escape engine problems: Stumbles, runs rough
Drivers of the 2017 Ford Escape also complain that the engine loses power, stumbles and hesitates. Others with even worse related problems say that their EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve was damaged. Whether the complaint is with the engine stumbling or the more severe issue with the EGR valve, all drivers say that the check engine light will go on. A diagnostic scan is necessary to correct the problem, and it’s important that the bad sensor is identified. It is usually recommended that the sensor and EGR valve be replaced to fix the issues. The cost range for a new EGR valve is $222-$286 and approximately $200 for a new sensor, for a total replacement cost of about $500-$600.
Here’s another quote from a Ford Escape owner with similar engine issues:
“This is the 4th time I’ve had to take my vehicle in for the same problem. Engine warning light comes on & the vehicle hesitates when accelerating. Almost like I have a bad tank of gas. Have had a wiring harness replaced twice, and sensors replaced 3x’s. Can hardly wait to see what it takes this time.”
How to avoid buying an unreliable used 2017 Ford Escape
One of the best ways to get a good understanding of a used vehicle is by asking a local mechanic to provide an inspection of the car.
You should also ask about maintenance, accident history and overall performance with the dealer or person selling you the car.
Plus, test-driving and looking for the symptoms of the issues listed above is always a good idea.
Which year model of Ford Escape should you buy?
When it comes to used cars, there’s an optimal age where the price to mileage ratio is the best. To easily compare prices, features, and savings for all recent year models of Ford Escape, check out CoPilot. Download the CoPilot app to see all used listings in your area and get automatic notifications when prices drop or new deals hit the market.
