Used 2013 Ford Escape Consumer Reviews
Used Escape for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Stylish. zippy and sure footed! Still lovin' it...
albyg, 12/29/2013
updated 01/06/2021
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
206 of 213 people found this review helpful
Three years and 21,000 miles have gone by since buying this little SUV and we have had zero issues other than three, non-issue and ridiculous recalls. It still has the original tires (ContiProContact) on it which are in good condition; when the time comes I will probably get the same tire as they handle well, perform well on snow and ice and are lasting very well. I bought a our 2013 Escape SEL with 13,900 miles on it. We have had it for two years and it has around 35,000 miles now. But, the time I have had driving it has been rewarding. Compared to the archaic, Jeep Cherokee Limited which it replaced, it is a little larger, yet drives like a sports car. Steering is quick, as is acceleration, although there is some lag before the turbo kicks in. I wouldn't want to make a habit out of pulling out in traffic without adequate space. While some reviewers think it has a clunky, funky climate control system, I find it simple and quite effective. The seat heat is second to none with 10 settings, from warm to way hotter than I want to be! So far it has been an enjoyable vehicle, with the exception of the misc. re-calls - on our car we have only had one re-call change to make. But, every time they send out a recall notice they expect you to make an appointment and get it checked out, so that's a bit of a hassle. I beleive we have had 4 recall notices...two of which appear to be for the same issue or non-issue in our case. I always wait until we need to take it in for an oil change and them let them check the recall issue. I have owned a number of very fast sports cars; I find the 1.6 liter EcoBoost to be powerful and responsive, except for off the line where there is a slight hesitation before the turbo kicks in. The handling of this little SUV is really nice, the steering is quick and extremely responsive while the suspension provides a firm, nimble ride. The brakes are very good, although touchy - requiring a light, controlled foot. It handles packed snow and ice amazingly well, even while braking. Our average gas mileage, for mixed city-highway is 26MPG; this has been the same from the day we got it until now. We live about ten miles out of town, so we have highway driving and city driving in fairly equal proportion. We have yet to take a road trip with it, but I suspect it should get 30-32 MPG on a 500 mile trip through the Nevada desert, constantly going up hills and down hills at 70 - 80 MPH (at least that's what I'm hoping for.) Update - 6/29/2017 We're still lovin' it! The only thing I would change is the lag time between stepping on it and the turbo kicking in; it would be nice if that was zero. Update - 7-3-2018 Five years and nearly 48,000 miles and I just installed a new battery last night. A 2-3 hour job, unless you do them all of the time. Other than the re-calls we have had to take the Escape in for, we have had zero problems. The recall work has created a few problems which, so far have been fixed by the dealer at no charge. Have a rattle in the console, near the radio that is probably due to one of the recalls and the work they did. Going back and looking at the mileage I have been recording for these reviews has me scratching my head, though! Update 1/03/2019 - Escape now has 51,729 miles. Zero issues. Still get right around 26MPG mixed city and highway and have yet had the opportunity to take a long trip to know what the true highway mileage would be. We're still running the original tires and brakes. 7/4/2019 - Still loving it. 54,944 miles, stock tires and brakes are still good; zero issues to date. Will probably have to put new tires on before next winter. 26 MPG mixed highway city is easy on the pocket book, compared to my '07 F150. 1/5/2021 - Now have a little over 63,000 miles. Runs like a top, regular oil changes, one new battery, injector cleaning and a new set of Continentals are it for maintenance costs to date. That's pretty hard to beat.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Solid, Fun-to-drive Small SUV
craign1, 03/02/2013
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
25 of 25 people found this review helpful
After 2 months and 2,000 miles, I am happy with this vehicle (SE 2.0 -- wasn't an option above). I purchased for compact, AWD, and 3,500 lb. towing capacity. Handles great in snow and muck. Gas mileage is as expected -- about 20 around town, upwards of 28 on highway, so around 23/24 on average. No issues thus far. Sync works fine with phone, bluetooth streaming from iPad, USB stick. I think this is as heavy and solid a small SUV as exists on the market today. A bit pricey but with the 2.0 turbo its not entirely comparable to other small SUVs. Engine is a bit buzzy at slow speeds (high pressure injectors, I'm told) but easily gotten used to.
2013 Ford Escape for sale near you
Showing 3 of 73 listings
- SE 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,98829 mi away
- SEL 4dr SUVMSRP: $7,77729 mi away
- Titanium 4dr SUVMSRP: $12,99025 mi away
See all 73 listings
2.0 L FWD SEL - After 6 months & 3000 miles
lsw74, 05/05/2013
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
52 of 54 people found this review helpful
I am aware of quite a few negative reviews and am often 2nd guessing myself on the purchase of my 1st new car (at nearly 40 yrs old). I don't have to drive as much as I used to because I work from home so my driving experience with this vehicle is not as extensive. Overall I love it. There are things I would change but the ride is great, the power is great (2.0 L but not an option here for SEL), and it's very comfortable. It feels like a sports sedan. I average 25 mpg, spot on the EPA est. People need to remember that highway rating is not highway/interstate slow & go driving. My mpg drops when my husband drives it so how you drive really does affect mpg.
2013 Escape Titanium - Tops competition
raghureddy2013, 07/20/2012
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
72 of 76 people found this review helpful
* Overall recommended buy * Driven 5,000Kms mostly on highway ( 3500Kms) * Escape 2013 - Made for this decade. * Fully functional Tech. - Rivals Luxury Models * Chinks will be corrected with factory recalls * This shouldn't stop you from buying * Smoothest power delivery and handling in class * Great safety features * An American car with European heart * Small, Quick & Very Functional * 19 inch wheels has its advantages & dis-advantages
My 13 Escape
Snowman, 07/13/2016
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
32 of 33 people found this review helpful
The 2013 Ford Escape I had was an outstanding vehicle. I put over 70K on it in three years driving cross country twice. I never felt compromised in any situation whether it was snow, rain , mountains or just straight highway driving. Plenty of acceleration with ECO Boost (turbo) great gas mileage usually @ 30 highway 24 city. My wife is a small woman and was very pleased with control access and road view. I'll just say that we liked it so much we traded it and bought a 2016 Escape:)
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love my SUV
rgtstylist, 09/03/2014
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
35 of 37 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Escape SEL almost a year. Yes I have had recalls, 4 in fact. But recalls are not unusual in the industry. Toyota Honda GM Hyundai etc have all had recalls. I love my SUV and the service Department at my Ford dealership is fantastic. Most of the gas mileage complaints seem to be coming from AWD models as I have read thru the reviews. My SUV is FWD and I have gotten over 30mpg with cruise control set on a highway ride. for the price of my SEL model that is really loaded I think it is a great choice for a smaller SUV. Power and handling with exceptional style.
Satisfied customer
Steve, 12/26/2015
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
We purchased a new Escape (August 2013) after owning a previous model for 10 years (~130,000 miles, engine gave out after teenage son drove in spite of loss of radiator fluid due to a punctured hose). The newer model is more comfortable and quieter. The car is very peppy and fun to drive (2.0 L engine). We get much better mpg on the highway in the new car (26 - 30) than in the older car (20 - 22; 3.5 L V6), but city mpg is not so good in the new car (~15 mpg). We have had no mechanical problems (23,000 miles; 2.5 years) and the few recall notices have been taken care of when getting an oil change (yes, the dealer is more expensive than the local oil change joint, but after factoring in convenience and a courtesy vacuum and car wash, it is not too terribly expensive - we like our dealer, one of the reasons we buy Fords). Handles fantastic in the snow (this weekend had 8-10 inches). Rear visibility is not great because of the small slanted back windows, but I noticed this in almost all the new small cross-over SUVs that I test drove (in fact one must look carefully to tell the exterior difference between an Escape and a RAV4). We have been pleased with the cargo capacity when the rear seats are down (it is not like the Expedition, but for a small SUV, it is very roomy). We are not much into the SYNC technology, but have had no troubles (although I still find it jarring when the radio is interrupted by an incoming call - but then I don't like to talk on the phone when I drive, hands free or not). The radio controls are a little complicated, but once we figured out the items we like to change, it is not so bad. Although the car is not perfect (I have never owned one that was), I am more than pleased with the purchased and would consider buying another when this one gives out (assuming it also makes it to over 100,000 miles).
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Nice car, but....
brandonjones81, 02/04/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
Like many people on here I find most of the 2013 Escape impressive. It is truly fun to drive and spacious enough for my small family, while handling well in cities and fitting into tight parking spaces. I have seen many posts on this car, and others about the misrepresented EPA mpg numbers and must agree, this vehicle falls far short of those claims and the marketing around the vehicle. Many of these posts end up being squashed by people who comment and claim driver error. I got better average mpg in my previous car, a 2000 Impala with a 3.4L v6. I also had to rent a car, a VW cc with a similar engine. It claimed 32 mpg highway, and that is exactly what i got. This car averages 21.5.
First Ford in 40 years
docwalleye1, 10/24/2012
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
54 of 59 people found this review helpful
Replaced wife's 2005 Rav-4 with a new Escape. First Ford I bought since my Mach 1 Mustang back in 1970 (wish I still had that one). Love the car! Test drove several SUV's and it was love at first drive with the Escape. Had it all. Comfort, performance, and style all great. Especially like the interior design. It is so smoooooth and quiet to drive that I leave my car and take hers when I can. Got basic SE model and added leather seats in the aftermarket for $950, for a total of $24,600, plus TTL. I agree with one magazine review I read that said the new Escape puts the "Sport" back in SUV! Am getting 28 mpg in combined, mostly rural driving. Got 32 on a trip down I-90.
Fords Poor Customer service & Warantee
jfrender, 08/19/2013
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2013 Ford Escape 10 months ago and have replaced the engine air filter on my echo boost engine with a k&n air filter. The plastic housing is cracking by the metal screws and 1 screw housing was stripped when purchased. I did not over tighten screws but the service mgr at Gaudin says I did because that wa his unintelligent response. Ford Motor Co. Regional Customer Service Mgr. Nikki out of Phoenix is going by what Gaudin Said. Ford will not honor Warrantee and the filter housing is thin plastic which is deteriating from heat and vibrations. A future problem could exist on all 2013 and 2014 Escapes and cause accelerated engine failure. After purchasing Fords since 1955 the serv
Handles Nice, Poor MPG and Broken Things
bneustein, 09/19/2014
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
43 of 47 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car after seeing a lot of good performance reviews and seeing an impressive 22/30 MPG sticker. I go off road, camping, and projects regularly so I wanted the AWD and the space that a small SUV provides. As of 30,000 miles - It handles well, dirt, water, snow. It is a nice ride and very comfortable. The bad: 17.5/22 MPG in PA, 19.5/24 MPG MD, all year round (and I tested it the old fashioned way of miles driven/fuel consumed, NOT the lying computer read out). 3 plastic parts including a handle broke within a year. 3 recall parts within the first year including overheating engine cylinders and a bad water pump. SYNC has never worked properly in this vehicle.
Love it!
Carol Franks, 03/14/2015
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
I love my Escape! It's quick and fast. It doesn't get the fuel mileage they advertise though, nearly 25mpg on the highway, I travel 1100 miles, one way, twice a year. On level ground, I am getting 23.5 mpg, when I'm at my home in the mountains, I get about 22. My only real disappointment is that I didn't get the Ford My Touch! The young salesman never mentioned it to me but it does add about $5000 to the total cost. Yes, it's had several recall's but to me that means that Ford is on the ball and not ignoring my safety.
Never Again
sarahh2, 05/22/2014
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
I had previously purchased a 2007 Mariner that I loved, but the new model Escapes are nothing like the old version. Between test driving the car and having it delivered from the dealership, the brakes warped, so I was back at the dealership within the first week of owning it. In the 7 months that I owned this vehicle, I also had it serviced for the driver's side window that wouldn't go up when it was cold out, the rear drivers side door wouldn't latch when it was cold, the computer had to be reset b/c the transmission delayed after depressing gas. Final straw was failure of the restraint control module, which activated 3 warning lights (traction control, airbag and hillside assist failure).
Elect steering
dlth, 04/01/2013
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
We love everything about the Escape except the steering. When traveling on the hwy it is impossible to make small adjustments without having everyone feel the movement. The dealer says it is due to the new electric steering. We use the vehicle for around town driving and take my truck for long trips. As much as I like the car I will not buy another.
Terrible Mileage and Range
wi_escape54843, 03/24/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
Bought this as commuter car knowing I'd give up some mileage to AWD, but hills of Duluth and tough winter made it good choice. With 1200 mi in just 2 wks, mpg < 21 on 160 mi daily commute w/ 90% hwy. Ford claim of 24 avg w 28 hwy is unacceptably inaccurate. By comparison - the 07 Sebring I traded avg 29 - 31 (seasonal), even my 03 dura max avg 20.6 for same journey as it is the ride I used for tough winter days. Escape worsens this with a small tank compared to Sebring with barely 300 mi, compared to 420 I had. So far - I'm incredibly disappointed.
Escape gets you there, but just not all your stuff
Loralee Holiman, 08/11/2016
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
This is a nice little car; but having down-sized from a 7-passenger van, we missed the cargo room. If you plan to move furniture, kayaks, or large pieces of lumber, consider the next size up. Other than that, this SUV will get you there reliably and in comfort at an affordable price.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
SE 2.0 4WD First American car in a decade
Doug Williams, 02/04/2016
updated 02/11/2019
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful
Traded my '06 Infiniti G35 for this as I wanted 4wd. Previous AWD vehicle was an '05 Honda Pilot. I took this for a test drive on a whim. Local dealer had it on the lot for over 90 days and wanted to move it. I was VERY impressed with the acceleration of the 2.0T and the purported gas mileage. I also drove a model with the 1.6T for comparison. I could not tell much difference as far as city driving goes. I suspect it would be most noticeable at highway speeds in hilly or mountainous country. 2.5 months in here are my thoughts: • 4WD works flawlessly in sand. Took it onto the south end of Amelia Island and drove around the point through over 1/4 mile of DEEP powder. I avoided the big trucks ruts as much as possible, but it made it through with no issues. • Interior Controls: Odd but functional. There should be a USB port somewhere on the dash with all the people that use their phone for navigation and the way GPS sucks battery. • Noise: Sound insulation / Road noise - very poor. Lots of wind and road noise even at low speed. • Fuel Economy: Well below rated EPA. I drive 11 miles to work door to door. 2.5 miles of it is 55mph, the rest is 45 and under. I baby the pedal 90% of the time and reset my fuel calibration every tank. I get 22.8mpg consistently overall. On a recent trip to NC I only saw 28.5mpg while at around 75mph. If I pushed the speed up to 80+ MPG went down. The trip was 425 each way. I averaged 26.5 for the trip. Overall - I still really like it. Can pack all my fishing or outdoors gear and drive through whatever to get where I want to go, road or not. Update: Over 2 years in now. No significant changes. Only issues have been that both rear wheel speed sensors failed about 4 months apart. If this happens you will definitely know something is wrong. When you first put the car in gear and back up then pull forward it makes some god awful clanks and clunks and stutters and stumbles as the anti-lock brack, traction control, stability control, hill start assist, and 4WD systems are all taken offline. Once the computer figures it out then you can drive fine, and 4WD still works, but all others including Anti Lock Brakes are taken offline. If you can not get the sensor replaced right away you can remove one wheel and disconnect the sensor connector and it takes all the systems offline without the stumbles. 3 years now. Odometer is just below 100K and fuel economy is 21.8 in town and 24.5 on the highway. That's a long way from the 29 on the sticker. Relocated to Charlotte, NC last week and took it to the mountains yesterday. Handles the hills and twisties very well. No problem on the uphill grades, on the down hill steep grades you're going to want to make sure your pads are good. The 2.0L engine provides little to no braking when downshifting.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Do not buy the Titanium model
Scott, 03/21/2016
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
36 of 40 people found this review helpful
3 transmissions Both winshield motors burnt out Turbo seal went out Exhaust in cabin Special tires for Titanium model expensive Front Tie rods and sway bar replaced
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I LOVE MY ESCAPE!!
Rgtstylist, 07/18/2016
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Have I had recalls? Yes. Is it annoying? Sometimes. In my case, Ford has kept up with what needed to be done before it was a problem. And the service department and service managers have been excellent. I have had 44 cars since I turned 16. I'm 54 now. Usually I keep a car a year or 2. But I can't bring myself to trade this one. Since I bought it I have had 3 other cars (I usually have a SUV/truck and a car at the same time.) and have no desire to replace this one. The leather seat fit me like it was made for me and having a back problem, that is very important. I have almost 20,000 miles in 3 years so I expect to own this SUV quite a while. Lovin my "SilverBullit".
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
Dependable so far, a few issues
Mario D., 06/08/2017
updated 11/04/2019
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Note: We ordered the SE model with the 2.0L engine because the 1.6L engine had the fire recall. This car is 5 years old w/ 65, xxx miles. (We are the original owners.) (The vehicle is always serviced at the Ford dealer and the dealer changes the oil at the recommended 5,000 mile mark.) This car is in no way abused and it is lightly driven. >Pros: 1.) Useful Features: Keypad entry (You'll never be locked out of your car again!) Why don't other manufacturers have this feature?, Microsoft Sync, automatic headlights, fog lights, capless fuel-filler neck, built-in blind-spot mirrors, dashboard tray, automatic hatch, windshield wiper design 2.) Well Designed: solid feel, quiet & smooth ride, responsive steering feel, spacious interior, good looks 3.) Unique windshield wiper design 4.) SYNC system works very well 5.) Punchy acceleration with 2.0L >Cons: 1.) Rough engine idle: Occasionally, while sitting at a stop light, the RPM needle bounces and fluctuates below 1,000 RPM and the car sputters and vibrates, sometimes violently, as if it's going to stall. This problem often occurs after fueling. There have also been problems with smoke upon startup. A puff of blue, gray or white smoke sometimes comes out of the exhaust when the car is started after sitting for a day. I explained, to the dealer, that this most likely indicates transmission fluid and/or oil is leaking into the engine/exhaust. (Dealer could not duplicate it, and was very rude saying that it is impossible.) 2.) Quality control: When we first got this vehicle, the molding around the USB/Aux port inside the center console came out, then the front bumper molding came out from under the car, on its own. The left steering wheel navigation button (arrows) had to be replaced. The hatch has never had proper alignment: a finger can be placed in the gap on one side of the hatch, but not in the gap on the other side. The rear seat plastic moldings near the floor have sheared off , costing $50 each to repair. The CD player recently stopped feeding disks and the dealer claims that the vehicle has to be sent somewhere else for repair, as they do not deal with audio repairs. 8/7/17: The horn stopped working at 66,100 miles. The horn would not sound when using the steering wheel button or when using the key fob lock button. The horn is a safety feature, it should never fail!!! It was repaired at our expense for abut $200. Things that should last the life of the car have failed on this vehicle. 3.)Recalls: There have been about 12 recalls. Getting recalls repaired is an inconvenience. Recalls indicate that the vehicle wasn't manufactured properly the first time. 4.)Radio: Changing radio stations is difficult: there is no tune knob. The left and right arrows are used to tune, but they do not respond quickly, there are also confusing sub menus that have to be selected for the different bands: (FM1, FM2, AM1, AM2 etc.) Luckily, a tuning knob has been added in the newer models. 5.)It is difficult to find a comfortable seating position. (Front seats need better lumbar support.) 6.)Ford didn't offer a Hybrid for this generation. 7.) Poor small overlap frontal crash rating (IIHS). >Overall, I may still buy a Ford in the future, there are so many convenient features on this vehicle that I cannot live without now. I hope that the issues have been ironed out on the new Escapes, as this is a first year vehicle. This car does get me where I need to go safely. I have considered buying a Ford C-MAX Hybrid as my next vehicle. Hopefully that won't be for quite awhile. 70, 000 Update: Vehicle has been performing very well and has not had it's sputtering or smoke problem for quite awhile. Fingers crossed the good performance continues. 73, 800 Update: Rear rotors and pads needed replacement due to excessive wear (rotors were grooved and pitted). This cost $300. Original battery was replaced and CD player works again! Factory battery must have been bad for quite some time, but always tested "good" at the dealership, strangely enough. Local repair shop tested the battery as: "bad".
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Glad I waited to review my Escape
kahunaman, 07/19/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
29 of 32 people found this review helpful
My last vechicle was a great car, a VW CC Turbo, it ran like the wind and handled great while getting 22 city and 32 hwy, however it only seated 4 and had very little room. I was pleased by the Escapes Turbo, handling, cargo, 5 passenger seating and all of the great features on my Titanium however The EPA rating of 22 and 30 just wasnt to be. The city millage was meeting and or exceeding the estimates but despite driving very conservatively I was only getting 24 hwy on my first real road trips. Then after 5 months and 3800 miles I am proud to say my Escape just got 29.5mpg fully loaded with 5 passengers and luggage on a family vacation. I ran premium gas and the AC at about 65-70. Awesome!
Stranded twice and recalls galore
Brad McLaughlin, 10/05/2015
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
My 2013 Escape was purchased brand new. As the sole owner for 30 months and 107,000 miles I was extremely disappointed with the this car. I have owned a Ford car for 17 of my 27 years as a driver. This Escape left me stranded twice due to phantom overheating alarms that were part of numerous recalls. The car was at the dealer for service more than 12 days of those 18 months. All for recall issues. Don't buy a Ford on their first model year.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Lots of factory issues; don’t buy first yr
Swoozula, 07/16/2018
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Over the 5 years I’ve owned this car, I've had 8 factory recalls and 3 major “factory” repairs! It’s been a good car, but it’s spent lots of time at the dealer. All has been covered under warranty with loaners, but I’ve lost a lot of time and inconvenience of not having my car. First the hatch wouldn’t close straight. The dealer sent it out for new hinges, but it continued to close improperly. They repaired hinges again and within a week the hatch wasn’t straight. Finally they sent it out again to have heavy duty hinges put on. Each of these 3 repairs required the dealer to send out my car to a body shop that kept it for three weeks at a time. Then the rear leaked, I mean standing water in the car, everytime there was a heavy rain. Plugs were missing. Last was a major repair. I was driving highway speeds with cruise control when the transmission slipped into neutral with the rpm redlining. I was 4 hours away and it repeated this more than 30 times as I limped it home slowly. No error codes, so Ford recalibrated something. It happened again on the way home from dealer. This time they replaced valves in transmission. Still happened, I took service rep with me to see what happens. Finally ford had to replace most of transmission claiming factory misdrilled items. That was a 5 week repair. Listen when people say don’t buy first year of new models!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
EXCELLENT SO FAR!
myescape2013, 12/03/2012
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
3,000 miles and very pleased so far. The center console armrest is too short for comfort and armrests on the doors are poorly designed and useless on long trips. Fun to drive, feels solid and handles very well. Gas mileage is quite good but gas tank capacity is too small. Hand brake on the console is annoying...I prefer the foot operated ones. Overall a nice vehicle but a bit overpriced for what you get.
Should've heeded the reviews.............
Barbara, 08/10/2016
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
I purchased my first Ford ever in May 2016. I fell in love with the looks of the 2013 Escape and against many warnings, I decided it was time to trade in my 2005 Lexus RX 330. I'd like to say first that I do really like the car. It's comfortable, love the electronics and handling and it's fun to drive. After about a month of owning the Escape, I noticed it making a high pitched whining noise when accelerating. I also noticed that when I put the gear in reverse, it banged roughly into reverse, which I know cannot be normal. I brought it to the Ford Dealer and luckily I have the extended warranty. They state it's the transmission and that in order to fix the noise, they'd need to take apart the transmission, which would be a few days holding it. Ford paid for me to have a rental, but to be honest, I really would rather drive the car I purchased. As far as the reverse gear issue, they haven't mentioned what they will do. I am disappointed with Ford. I cannot believe that I am now one of those people sitting here, writing a negative review on a vehicle I just purchased and will be stuck with for a long time. What scares me is that whenever they "fix" one problem, it usually leads to another. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this is my last and only major issue. Call me naive.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I hate my 2013 Ford Escape
hartson, 08/18/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
30 of 34 people found this review helpful
I have had problem after problem in the 10 months of owning this car. Leak in tire to start, then sync issues, then bad head light due to bad wiring at Ford manufacturing, horn goes off when open back hatch (sometimes), now water leaking under car, air and heat stop working and the latest vehicle health report says to take in right away for service due to brakes and suspension service required. I bought a new car to avoid problems. And I gave up a Toyota with 100k miles with no problems. Now I have to spend my valuable time once again taking in for service. Also, the last time the dealer acted like they were doing me a favor when they fixed the head light - Really!!!
My Last Ford
Jennifer, 04/01/2016
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought my Ford Escape as a new model. I never expected to have so many concerns/problems with a new vehicle. It jerks into gear, and grabs when the brakes are pressed. It is like driving a golf cart. It has been recalled several times, and the interior is poorly manufactured. The cargo cover is asymmetrical leaving a gaping hole in the floorboard, and the handle in the cargo area is not secure. I have taken to several Ford Dealerships. One essentially told me I would have to live with the defects even though the vehicle is under warranty. I have had conflicted reports from dealerships. One did indicate transmission issues at less than 36K, and attempted a repair. Apparently Ford does not stand behind the vehicles it manufactures. I plan on selling this vehicle as soon as possible, and will never buy another Ford. On a positive note, the radio is nice and works, but it is little consolation when concerned the transmission is going to fail. It is unfortunate, as this vehicle is made locally, and I like to support local economy. Mediocre gas mileage as well, nothing green about this car. Plan on selling ASAP before the warranty runs out, and I am stuck with a huge repair bill. I am a conscientious driver, and tend to keep a car for their lifetime. Guess, this Ford's lifetime is 36,000. Hmmmm......about the time the warranty runs out.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2012 and 2013 Escape
tjack129, 02/13/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I have a 2012 limited and just bought the wife a 2013 Titanium. I like the old boxy model.....easy to drive.....easy to see out of.....everything works properly. It has the 2.5 engine and though it is not the smoothest and strongest engine it has been reliable and returns decent mileage. In my every day driving.....going to golf course.....running around to do things and occasional trips up the interstate to see granddaughter.....it is giving me currently 23.8 mpg over a period of several thousand miles. The new Titanium does every thing better except the mileage.....only 20.0 at this point. Hope fully that will improve.....only 500 miles at this point.
bad tranny
m d, 02/09/2017
2013 Ford Escape S 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
I would do research on the transmission all my service has been done by ford we took it in for a clunk noise when shifting from park to reveres car has 69000 miles I'm told we need to buy a new transmission the service writer said bring the car in for transmission check at 90000 it was built so poorly it wont make it to 90000 sad day when ford wont stand behind there car at least till it has the first service. car is out of warranty by the extended warranty that might help. I have found many post on the internet about the 2013 escape transmission small piston in the transmission letting fluid by leak by causing pressure drop
First Brand New Car
romans116, 03/04/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
My wife and I purchased our Escape back in October 2012. We absolutely love it! We test drove the 2013 Kia Sorento SX (smooth but interior felt cheap), 2013 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring (too slow for me), and the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0L Turbo. The Santa Fe was nice, but the deal breaker for me with the Santa Fe was you could not get roof racks with the panoramic sunroof, as you could with the Escape. It also did not have memory seats. If I am paying for a vehicle fully loaded, I want it fully loaded. MPGs around the city are 21-22, Highway are 29-30. The only thing we didn't get on the car was the hands-free tailgate feature. I swapped it for a tow hitch.
2013 Ford Escape AWD
gailgwen, 02/03/2014
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 20 people found this review helpful
I bought this car when it first came out. It handles well and is peppy. My biggest complaint is the gas miles: 17 miles in town (worse than my 2003 Explore) and if I am lucky I get 23 miles on the highway. I can barely get 200 miles on a full tank highway driving. Also, I have the towing package, the kicking the leg under the rear bumper is not possible. Finally, the seats front seats are small.
Disappointed in my 2013 Ford Escape Titanium
kellyg511, 05/17/2014
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
22 of 25 people found this review helpful
Purchased my 2013 Ford Escape Titanium in November, 2012. Since then, I have had numerous mechanical/electronic problems. Faulty door hands, a power lift gate that didn't work, a bluetooth phone system that no one could hear me on, a radio with no sound, a defroster that didn't work secondary to radio issues, steering issues, and most recently a blown transmission. My last trip to the repair shop lasted 51 days. I am left with nothing but aggravation and what I believe to be an unreliable/unsafe vehicle. Have an ongoing case with Ford Motor Company, which has been passed through nine people - none of which have given me any support. Asking ford to repurchase my vehicle. I've had enough.
Think about your decision carefully
chevylover229, 07/19/2013
2013 Ford Escape S 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
My family purchased the 2013 Ford Escape S about three months ago (This is July of 2013) and at first we were SO happy, but about a week past and we had a sync problem, then a lift gate problem and so on and so on. Though this is a very NICE (Key word) car. I still have a few years to go before saying i like ford... Cause at the moment; I don't. The low base price and High MPG, mixed with the design of this car make it a real catch. So if you can afford slightly higher priced car, I strongly hope you do. Another car that might suit your fancy would be a Chevy Equinox that we also own and love three times more. With a spacious 2nd row and quiet interior make a better choice by a long shot.
Great Vehicle Until the Turbo Died
James Tarpley, 09/29/2015
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
After the initial recalls in 2013, my 2013 Escape SEL was very reliable. I had it in the shop three times in 3 years (78K miles). Ironically, all three times were because the cluster communicated that Engine Coolant was low and the engine needed to be serviced. The first two times, the local Ford dealer ran a pressure test and it passed with no leaks. The dealer informed me that sometimes the coolant just leaves the system and they can't find the reason for it. The third time, they advised me that it was still holding pressure, but the turbo was leaking oil (causing a fire hazard), so it needed to be replaced. After seeing the $3,000 estimate to replace the turbo and comparing it to a resale value of $12K, I elected to sell the vehicle at auction without performing the repairs. At auction, with the necessary repair disclosed, I was able to get $9,600 for it, so it worked out in my favor. The only other issues I had were Ford Sync related. The radio and blue tooth connection would stop all sound through the vehicle speakers. The Ford Sync people walked me through the process for fixing it the first couple of times. I had to perform a master reset on the electronic system. This is like restoring an Iphone to original condition and erasing all added data. Lastly, as far as mileage, I averaged 26K miles/year. My combined average fuel economy came out to 21.2 MPG. Not bad mileage, but not what I expected for a 4 cylinder motor with an "Eco-boost" performance enhancer. I even adjusted the performance of the motor to be as economical as possible. I really did like my 2013 Ford Escape SEL and was sad to leave it at the dealer and send it to auction. It was a pretty comfortable ride on trips. I took a 5 day trip from NW Arkansas to Washington DC and back, and I was pretty comfortable the entire trip. Unfortunately, the cost of replacing the turbo was roughly 25% of the entire vehicle, and with the motor/transmission and electronics being 3 years old with 78K miles, I could not justify that significant of an expense. If I had picked the 6 cylinder option without the turbo, I would never have let it go.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great car
Bill, 04/08/2021
updated 04/25/2025
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We have owned this car since new. No problems at 75000 mi.Like the way it drives. Planning to replace it with a new Escape.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Beautiful and Fun to drive. Disappointing mpg and electronics
mcraigs, 02/06/2013
2013 Ford Escape S 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Beautiful inside and out. Fun to drive and controls well. Functional and practical. I have been disappointed with mpg. I am averaging 21.5 mpg consistently for 6000 miles. This is based on 70 % highway 30% city driving. To put this in perspective I have a 2004 Subaru Forester XT that under the same driving conditions gets 29.5 mpg. My DH has a 2012 Ford Edge that gets 20.5 mpg under the same driving conditions. Based on other reviews I tried premium fuel. The premium fuel increased the mpg to 22.5 mpg. Perhaps I had unrealistic expectations. I have been disappointed in the somewhat buggy electronics - in particular my ford touch, navigation and parking assist. Fixed next release?
2013 Ford Escape SEL 2.0L Turbo
thelaw, 11/06/2012
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
Just bought this car, has under 200 miles on it. Opted for the tow package with the 2.0 liter engine. Smaller than the mid-size SUV that I traded in but I love the handling and extra horsepower of the 2 liter engine. If you have a big family this car may NOT be for you. Skip the pricy options such as Nav, Park Assist, Back Up sensors, BLIS, Cross Traffic, and Power Lift Gate. Dealer included installation of the roof rack in the price. This car has many of the luxury items that my wife's new Volvo S80 has. I guess Ford learned something when they owned Volvo way back when. Highly recommend this car.
Multitude of Flaws... And Ford has been making cars for 110 years?!
monroviaguy, 04/05/2013
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 21 people found this review helpful
Always a Honda owner, I switched to the Escape because of cool gadgetry and improved reputation. Incentives sealed the deal, but it's been downhill since the purchase. It's been recalled for a potential fire issue. Fuel economy is horrible!! My previous V6 Honda got 20 mpg driving the exact same daily commute, but my Escape only gets 21 (should be closer to 27)! The Sync MyTouch (upgraded) system is terribly glitchy, sometimes freezing up, telling me the wrong time (by hours), losing all audio... infuriating!! Ford doesn't know why. Apps (as advertised) aren't available on the more expensive system, only the base Sync! I had high hopes, but Ford will never earn my business again.
Buyer Beware
srghmn, 12/27/2013
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
18 of 21 people found this review helpful
Trouble almost from day one. Car pulls to the side during acceleration, it shifts very hard like it is having transmission problems. Had it recalled 3 different times leaving me with a rental car for weeks. The radio does not always turn off when I open the door to exit the vehicle, sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't. The rear lift gate doesn't always lock, it allows you to open it but then the alarm goes off. You never know if the blue tooth system will connect to my phone thru the speakers or thru privacy mode. Turning radius is horrible, and visibility is the worst in any vehicle I have ever had. Trading it ASAP.
I think I bought a lemon!
Lemonsuv, 08/20/2018
updated 09/08/2020
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Purchased brand new, had 70 miles on it and rear-end needed to be replaced, so 3 weeks with a rental vehicle. Air conditioner has had to be recharged twice at garage, hubby finally put Stop-leak in it and it's been working. Has had numerous recalls, spending lots of time in the car garage. Now with 80,000 miles needs new transmission. No warning at all just wouldn't move when leaving work. No Warranty to cover this. My advice never buy a 1st year vehicle when the model changes. Dealership we bought the vehicle at, does not stand behind it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Worst SUV on the Planet !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DM Piazza, 10/12/2015
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
29 of 35 people found this review helpful
Worst SUV ever!!!!!!!!!!! Bought my Escape SEL/AWD brand new push start technology package, rear hatch release sensor, auto start, ambient lighting, heated front seats pretty loaded. Let’s start with the obvious issue 1st it stalls when you are driving it. This happened 5 times in 2 years once pulling into the driveway (husband was driving) ok let’s chalk that up to a fluke. The 2nd time it stalled I was pulling into my work parking lot so far each time it was taken right back to dealership and left there for them to FIX every time within hours I was called to say they could not duplicate the problem so hence no found issue nothing done.. The 3rd time it stalled was on Highway Route 1 in stop and go traffic I almost got back ended so again right back to the dealership mind you this is all in the first year and a half of owning it. This time it stayed there for almost a week and the dealer said it had a recall so they would update the electronics (still however not able to duplicate the problem) and asked me if I was sure I was not turning it off while driving it??? REALLY??? REALLY??? YES I AM POSITIVE I AM NOT TURNING OFF MY CAR WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING IT !!!!!!!!!!! Received the call it was ready and to come get it. Ok off I go back to the dealership hopeful all will be fixed and I will have no more issues. Oh was I mistaken I left the dealership and headed down Route 295 to pick up a friend HUGE MISTAKE !!!!!! about 5 miles into my drive in stop and go traffic yep you guessed it STALLED AGAIN!!!!!!! At this point I am losing my mind and call to have them come pick up the death trap on the side of the road. Again no problem when they get it back to the dealership. Now I am still shaken up but willing to take it again. This time for a few months its ok I am optimistic that all is better and the issue is resolved. Oh how wrong I was……. The last time it decided it didn’t want to continue driving it stalled while I was making a left hand turn into a shopping center in the middle of a very busy 4 lane road I almost caused a several car accident thank goodness I was used to the stalling and threw it in neutral started in and floored it into the lot just missed getting t-boned but a second. This was it for me it took me over an hour to stop shaking, crying and being able to breathe again. The escape was traded by the end of the week. Since getting rid of it I have found out a lot of other people have had the same issue with accidents due to their escape stalling while driving it. I will never own another Ford product as long as I live. Ford is aware of the Issue and is being charged by the NHSA for not warning consumers of this huge problem with the Escape & Focus. There is a class action Law Suit also due to Ford not taking responsibility. So if you are looking into this SUV please do a lot of home work. I feel truly lucky that this suv did not kill me while I owned it.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Escape from your Escape
Steve, 04/24/2016
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
17 of 20 people found this review helpful
I have 2013 Ford Escape, with 5 recalls in three years. Now transmission is slipping and stalls. This SUV is not very reliable. Before the coolant leaked three times. Had it repaired twice. Now I now why Ford is referred to as Found on the Road Dead!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Reliability
- Value
A Lemon!
Frani, 10/29/2019
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Bought demo 2013 Ford Escape with 27,000 miles on it October 2019 the transmission blew with only 39,000 miles on it! Car was paid off Called Ford Motor Co & they said warranty was under o miles, but over on years Wouldn’t help us out at all Transmission replacement cost was $7,600 Traded it in, instead of repairing, they gave us $4,000 for the defunct Escape Talked to a woman the next day and she said they had nothing but problems with their Escape (transmission went out, along with numerous other costly issues I was a Ford lover back in the 60’s & 70’s, not any longer at all
Recalls...transmission...now what?
Mike, 07/06/2016
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Just got back from a 1200 mile trip and the transmission started shifted poorly. I've occasionally had a few slips here and there and while it caused a slight concern, it did not happen enough to warrant further investigation. Now, the car won't run and I'm told it's $5000 to fix it!!! Not only will I not have a car for a week, I just lost my vacation $$ for the next 2 years. Thanks Ford!! The worst part about all this....I actually own Ford stock! It will take about 10 years of dividends to pay this bill...UGH
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Escape much improved in 2013
gassendi, 10/16/2012
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
12 of 14 people found this review helpful
Traded up from my 2007 Legacy sedan - needed more room and better mileage, and I found both at Ford. We have a 2005 Mazda Tribute (rebadged Ford Escape) and we have really liked it, when the Subaru proved unreliable, we looked at the new Escape and chose it over the Forester and Mazda CX-5. Exterior styling is excellent - much more like BMW than Ford's traditionally blocky lines. Interior is very comfortable for extended rides, roomy and functional, too. One lever fold-down rear seats give a flat floor for loading cargo; back seat is roomy enough for a 6-ft adult to sit comfortably. Still learning My Ford Touch system, but voice command works reasonably well.
13 Escape 2.0L Ecoboost
canon60d, 08/23/2013
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought in May, and have had no issues whatsoever. The engine is a delight, strong and linear acceleration when you need it. Shifts are smooth with the 6 speed transmission, and the sport mode is great in the hills or twisties to eliminate unwanted shifts. Capable of decent gas mileage, but the turbo is way more fun. The really cool thing is the way it handles. Fantastic trip car, i had 4 adults, and a 1 year old with a huge car seat, and clothes for 3 days in the back, loaded to the gills, on twisty roads, and it handled like a dream. Pricey when loaded,but no more so that a Acura, or VW Tiguan, neither of which compares in performance, or feature set. Glad I bought it.
Long road trip
explorerx4, 08/13/2014
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Back from a 2500 mile road trip with our 2013 AWD Titanium. It's a good road trip vehicle. Fuel mileage is pretty good, about 26-27 mpg overall, and it has plenty of power. Handles the PA hills on I-80 with ease. Both front seats are ok for spending some hours in.
Our last Ford
southtx, 07/07/2014
2013 Ford Escape SEL 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Just traded off our '13 1.6L Ecoboost with 28k miles after finally losing confidence in the vehicle. The stylish interior and Ford loyalty sold us to begin with, but the several recalls and follow-up notifications that the recall work might not have been done correctly took a toll (nine documented service events, and a handful of 'quick fix' visits). While we had no problems at all with the navigation, the rest of the MyFordTouch system was even 'buggier' than what's prominently mentioned in reviews. It never worked properly (or with any pattern of consistency) from the day the vehicle was new. Fuel economy was never anything near what's advertised. Wind noise was very bad.
Dependable!
***********, 09/30/2020
2013 Ford Escape Titanium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
My suv has been very dependable. It handles well and has pep when excelarating. I take it in to my local Ford dealership, where I bought it, and have regular oil changes and tire rotation. Have not had any trouble with it and look forward to driving it till it won't roll another mile.
2013 Eco Boost
topsee, 04/22/2014
2013 Ford Escape SE 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Escape in the fall of 2012 and it presently has less than 12k in miles on it. Four recalls on this model. Sync system failed and the dealer reset it and said they could not provide the replacement part unless the system failed completely. I would not purchase an Escape until the problems are remedied on the factory level. for the Eco Boost engine. Presently back at the dealer with a low coolant/service warning, which I suspect has something to do with the last recall work not done correctly. I am contemplating trading as I am now uncertain of the vehicle's future.