Ford Escape 2nd generation (2008–2012)
Generation-specific owner insights from 114+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy a 2008–2012 Escape?
14,792
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2008–2012
18
recall campaigns
steering
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2008-2012 Escape generally describe it as a tough, capable, and reliable small SUV, with many praising its snow performance, off-road ability for a unibody crossover, and overall durability at high mileage.
13 problems reported (8 recurrent, 5 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTransmission failure on 2008 models, requiring replacement before 150,000 miles
- RecurrentElectric power steering torque sensor failure after 100,000 miles
Causing power steering loss at highway speed.
- RecurrentRust on rear wheel wells, shock mounts, and front subframe, especially in salt-belt regions
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentWater pump failure on V6 models, difficult to replace and can cause engine overheating
- RecurrentA/C desiccant bag rupture in receiver dryer on 2009-2012 models
Filling system with sand and requiring full system replacement.
- RecurrentBlower motor resistor failure causing A/C issues
Related to water entering the heater core housing through the cowl.
- RecurrentWindow regulator failures requiring replacement
- RecurrentSync system bugs, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and no longer supported by Ford
- IsolatedDoor handle sticking open in cold weather
- IsolatedThrottle body issues causing stalling
- IsolatedIgnition cylinder tumbler failure requiring replacement
- IsolatedAxle seal leak at 45,000 miles
- IsolatedLack of separate transmission oil cooler leading to "milkshake" transmission fluid
The version owners recommend
The 2011-2012 model years with the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine appear to be the most recommended. Owners describe the 4-cylinder as "indestructible" and "rock solid," while the 2011-2012 versions of the 6-speed automatic are noted as improved over earlier versions. The 2008 model year is specifically advised against due to transmission and power steering issues.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Sonata and Lexus RX.
Is a 2008–2012 Escape right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Owners of the 2008-2012 Escape generally describe it as a tough, capable, and reliable small SUV, with many praising its snow performance, off-road ability for a unibody crossover, and overall durability at high mileage. The boxy styling is frequently preferred over the later redesigned models, which owners view as less capable and more problematic. However, the 2008 model year specifically draws criticism for transmission failures and electric power steering sensor issues, and rust is a recurring concern in salt-belt regions. Owners also report that the early Sync system is dated, buggy, and no longer supported, though this is considered a minor annoyance rather than a dealbreaker.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners cross-shopping the 2nd generation Escape against the Toyota RAV4 generally lean toward the Toyota for statistical reliability on older vehicles, though some note the Escape was used as Manhattan taxis and can rack up high miles. Against the Honda CR-V, the Escape is seen as more capable off-road and in snow. When compared to the Ford Explorer, owners note the Explorer has a stronger V6 engine but warn about its water pump failure risk. The Escape is positioned as more rugged and truck-like than modern crossovers, with one owner calling it "the last true small SUV" due to its uniframe construction with bumper-to-bumper frame rails.
Recommended configurations
Owners recommend the 4-cylinder engine over the V6, with one noting a recall on the V6 and another calling the 4-cylinder "indestructible." The 2011-2012 model years with the 6-speed automatic are preferred over earlier 6-speed versions that had hard shifts. For AWD models, owners confirm the system is capable, with a locking center diff on 2001-2004 models being noted as more off-road capable than later versions.
General recommendations
Owners advise avoiding the 2008 model year specifically due to transmission failures and electronic power steering sensor issues. For any 2nd generation purchase, a thorough rust inspection is essential, particularly on rear wheel wells, shock mounts, and the front subframe on the passenger side near the exhaust. Buyers should check for paint chips and clear coat defects, which are common. Regular maintenance is emphasized, including transmission fluid changes every 30,000-50,000 miles, coolant flushes, and checking the water pump on V6 models. Owners report these vehicles frequently exceed 150,000-200,000 miles with proper care.
Remarks
Owners frequently note the 2nd generation Escape's off-road capability exceeds what its crossover classification suggests, with several recounting use on trails, in snow, and even pulling other vehicles. The vehicle's crashworthiness is praised, with one owner reporting a 40mph rear-end collision left occupants uninjured. The Sync system's discontinuation of support frustrated several owners, with one vowing to switch to Japanese brands. The 2008 model year is consistently singled out as the weakest of the generation. Analysis based on approximately 114 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 1,203 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2011 | 2,651 | 3 | steering |
| 2010 | 4,258 | 5 | vehicle speed control |
| 2009 | 1,846 | 3 | steering |
| 2008 | 4,834 | 5 | steering |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2012 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 16V777000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
2012 · suspension:front:wheel bearingcampaign 15E045000
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
2011 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 16V777000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
2011 · suspension:front:wheel bearingcampaign 15E045000
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
2011 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 14V284000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist.
2010 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 16V777000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
2010 · suspension:front:wheel bearingcampaign 15E045000
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
2010 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 14V284000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist.
2010 · equipmentcampaign 10E043000
MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
2010 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 10V222000
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, MILAN, AND ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 27, THROUGH MARCH 26, 2010. THE PARK ROD GUIDE RETENTION PIN MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY INSTALLED WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION".
2009 · suspension:front:wheel bearingcampaign 15E045000
The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
2009 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 14V284000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist.
2 more recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.