2016 Ford Escape engine problems
199 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2016 Ford Escape — 18% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“On July 7, 2026, at approximately 113,080 miles, my 2016 Ford Escape displayed a “Transmission Fault – Service Now” warning. The exact failed component is currently UNKNOWN, but the issue appears to involve the transmission/powertrain and possibly an electrical fault. While driving, I experienced…”
filed Sep 9, 2026
“Bought car in 2023, one year later engine failure due to overheating from head gasket issue widespread with this vehicle. Replaced engine, and two years later facing identical issue with another engine failure. Unidentifiable coolant leak led to low oil pressure and car shaking on the highway. Will…”
filed Sep 9, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has…
SSM 52335 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Mar 6, 2024
Engine problems in other Escape years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Escape | 5 | 22% |
| 2024 Escape | 13 | 17% |
| 2023 Escape | 28 | 29% |
| 2022 Escape | 32 | 14% |
| 2021 Escape | 43 | 13% |
| 2020 Escape | 120 | 8% |
| 2019 Escape | 308 | 53% |
| 2018 Escape | 1,145 | 64% |
| 2017 Escape | 1,564 | 58% |
| 2015 Escape | 238 | 22% |
| 2014 Escape | 722 | 35% |
| 2013 Escape | 1,265 | 46% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Ford Escape
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.