You could try getting it running and taking it to CarMax for a quote. Dealerships often match their offers.
Would you feel good buying a car, only to find out the engine was bad because someone used sealant to hide the issue? Most dealers know these engines are bad and will likely pressure test it anyway. If you can afford it, I’d replace the engine and drive it until it’s done for good. Just stay on top of oil and transmission fluid changes.
@Peyton
This happened to me. Bought a 2017 Escape with 71k miles, and two days later, I had a check engine light and coolant intrusion.
If you’ve got a lot of documented repairs, maybe talk to an attorney. My sister-in-law had her Escape loan wiped out after she had to replace the transmission twice. A court ruled the car was a lemon.
Is yours the 1.5L or the 2.0L engine?
Joss said:
Is yours the 1.5L or the 2.0L engine?
It’s the 1.5L.
Ford Escapes are such a money pit. One more repair, and I’m switching to Toyota or Honda.
Noah said:
Ford Escapes are such a money pit. One more repair, and I’m switching to Toyota or Honda.
That’s why I always get an extended warranty with Fords. I went with a 7-year, 125k-mile warranty for peace of mind.