Thinking about buying a 2024 Ford Escape Titanium… thoughts?

Hey everyone! I’m trading in my piece-of-junk Ecosport and considering a 2024 Escape Titanium. It has 5,000 miles on it and was used as a dealer loaner.

I’ve heard some mixed things about Ford lately, and people keep telling me to check out the Mazda CX-5 instead. My experience with the Ecosport has been awful, but I drove a similar Ford while waiting for the Ecosport’s engine to get replaced (spoiler: it wasn’t fixed due to a recall part not being ready), and I actually liked it.

I’m nervous about making the wrong choice! What do you guys think? Thanks in advance for your advice!

Edit: I decided to go with the Mazda! Thanks, everyone!

The newer 4th-gen Escapes (2020-2025) are still too new to really judge their reliability compared to the older 3rd-gen models (2013-2019). I have a 2021 Escape Hybrid AWD, and while I’ve had a few small issues, most of the problems were made worse by poor dealership service.

If you do decide to get the Escape, just keep up with maintenance. Turbo engines need regular care, and you should change the transmission fluid every 30k miles (drain and fill, not a flush). Also, run the VIN to check for recalls and see what TSBs apply. Best of luck!

@Hayden
Great overview! Just a heads-up, the 4th-gen hybrids had a long-block recall due to a fire hazard. It didn’t affect a lot of vehicles, though.

Also, the Ecosport doesn’t really represent Ford’s quality—it’s a totally different beast. The Escape is much better.

@Franz
True, and my Escape Hybrid was part of that recall, but I’ve had no engine issues at all so far. I’m at 56k miles, and it’s been solid.

Most of my problems have been due to dealership mistakes—like poorly installed parts after repairs. Changing dealerships might be a good idea for me, but it’s a hassle.

If you want to keep the car long-term, go for the Mazda CX-5. Ford’s reliability is pretty low overall. I looked at a bunch of Escapes when shopping for my wife, and they had too many issues. I really wanted to like the car, but I just couldn’t. Mazdas, on the other hand, offer solid reliability and good value.

I have a 2024 Escape ST-Line Elite with the 2.0L AWD. It’s been great so far, and I’d recommend it. The 2.0L engine has been reliable for years, but I’d stay away from the 1.5L 3-cylinder—it’s known for coolant intrusion issues.

If the dealer can show you it hasn’t had any issues and it’s a good price, go for it. Just stay away from Ecosports—they were a disaster.

Mazda CX-5 all the way. No contest.

I have a 2020 Escape Titanium AWD with 40k miles. No issues so far, and the current engines don’t have the coolant intrusion problem. My wife loves it!

My best friend just got a 2024 ST-Line. It’s fine, but the 3-cylinder feels laggy when trying to pass or go uphill. Honestly, I miss the older Escapes—they felt sturdier. If you’re considering an Escape, test-drive it thoroughly.

I’ve had both a Mazda CX-5 and a 2024 Escape PHEV. Build quality on the Mazda is much better, but the Escape has a better infotainment system and a more comfortable interior. Drive both and see which fits your needs better.

I’ve got a 2017 Escape 1.5L, and my transmission went out at 84k miles. My wife has a 2022 CX-5, and it’s been flawless. I’d recommend the Mazda.

Honestly, I’d look at the Bronco Sport or Maverick instead. The Escape’s resale value isn’t great, especially since it’s the last model year.

Blair said:
Honestly, I’d look at the Bronco Sport or Maverick instead. The Escape’s resale value isn’t great, especially since it’s the last model year.

The Bronco Sport is basically an Escape with a different body.

@Uma
True, but at least they’re still making it.

Good cars, but I wish they offered lighter interior colors. Black interiors feel boring to me.

Don’t do it. You’ll regret it later.

I have a leased Ford Escape ST-Line, and it’s been great. My dad had a Titanium a few years ago, and it was reliable. I recommend it.

I couldn’t wait to get out of my Ecosport! It looked like a roller skate. My 2020 Escape is better, but it’s had three shop visits in less than 50k miles. I’m moving on soon.

Mackenzie said:
I couldn’t wait to get out of my Ecosport! It looked like a roller skate. My 2020 Escape is better, but it’s had three shop visits in less than 50k miles. I’m moving on soon.

Omg, it does look like a roller skate!

@Asa
That’s literally what I called it in the Ford app! My Escape is now named ‘NotRollerSkate.’