Hi all! My 2017 2.0L EcoBoost just completely failed. All 4 cylinders are cracked, the head is cracked, and it’s full of coolant. I take it easy on the car, usually stay under 3000 RPMs, brake gently, and change my oil every 5000 miles. It has only 67,438 miles, and I haven’t even put 10,000 miles on it since I bought it. The only option now is to replace the engine for about $8500.
I’m posting to see how many others have had this issue. From what I’ve read, this problem seems to be common with these engines, even causing them to shut down randomly. For those who’ve been through this, how many miles did you have? And has anyone gotten financial help from Ford for repairs? I still owe $14,000 on this car, so paying another $8500 is a huge blow. I’m just at a total loss.
Thanks for the tip, but I already checked and don’t qualify. I hope others with this issue see this and check, though. This whole situation is just ridiculous.
So sorry you’re dealing with this. I had a similar experience with my Escape. It started with misfires and coolant issues, which Ford wouldn’t cover, so I ended up paying for a bunch of repairs. Eventually, the coolant intrusion cracked my engine block, and I couldn’t afford to keep up with the repairs, so I had to let it go. Ford later sold it at auction for just over $1000, and I still owe them $8000. It’s been a nightmare, and from what I’ve learned, we’re not alone—Ford doesn’t seem to be helping anyone in this situation.
Feel free to vent because I know exactly how awful this is.
I’m going through this now with my 2017 Escape SE. It’s at the dealership, and they want $8600 for a new engine. I’m in Canada, so I can’t join the U.S. class-action lawsuit, and I just don’t have the money to fix it. I’ll probably have to sell it as is. The rest of the car is in great shape, so it’s honestly hard to believe this is happening.
Thank you! This is from April 2023—do you know if they’re moving forward with it? I added my info.
I’m not sure. I added my info a month ago after having the coolant intrusion issue in my 2018. Haven’t heard any updates yet. My vehicle qualified for a short block replacement under the customer satisfaction program, so I was lucky, but I’m still out for towing costs and left with a car I don’t trust. I’ll likely trade it in, but probably at a lower value.
@Remy
I’m in the same boat. I have an SE too. My fiancé had a Titanium Escape with 76k miles and no engine problems, but we traded it in this weekend for a Chevy. Ford told me they wouldn’t help cover costs, citing my ‘lifetime customer value’ score. I planned to stick with Ford, but after this experience, I’m done.
You mentioned research showed this issue is common, and you’re right. There’s a lot of data showing this problem with EcoBoost engines. FordEscape.org is another place with more stories from others.
You also replaced your last car due to a failed transmission. The transmissions in Escapes are known for issues as well, especially if fluid changes are skipped.
If you look around, you may find options for engine replacement at less than $8500. Good luck.
@Shiloh
The engines hadn’t started failing when we bought our two Escapes. I looked online, but transmission issues weren’t common in my searches either. I just wish Ford would take responsibility for this engine design flaw. I need to get this car fixed by Ford for resale value, so I can hopefully break even on my loan.
When we first bought, we researched issues but didn’t see anything about major engine or transmission problems. If I’d known, I would’ve looked for a different car.
@Cael
Engine failure has been known for a while. Ford offered extended warranties if you met certain conditions.
The 6F35 transmission has had issues for years. Quick searches bring up tons of complaints.
Honestly, spending $8500 on this repair just to sell at a loss doesn’t make sense. You’ll get a revised engine block that should solve the coolant issue. Keep up with transmission fluid changes every 30k, and it should last a while.
For a quick overview, the problem started with a redesign of the engine block and coolant ports in 2017.
Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin 19-2346, which covers symptoms, tests, repairs, and labor times. (Search for the bold text to find the full TSB.) TSBs aren’t recalls, but if you’re under warranty, it’s worth pursuing. Even without a warranty, some dealerships might lower costs or cover repairs due to how recently you bought the car and its low mileage. It’s definitely worth asking for help.