2021 Ford Escape Hybrid Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2021 Ford Escape Hybrid recalls

Most common 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid problems

Problem areas named in the 124 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Engine	36
Structure	32
Electrical System	23
Unknown Or Other	17
Power Train	14
Fuel/Propulsion System	9
Service Brakes	7
Vehicle Speed Control	6
Forward Collision Avoidance	3
Hybrid Propulsion System	3

What owners report

2026-10-06, Electrical System
within the first minute of engine start there is a high-voltage buzzing sound following with a minor smoke smell coming either from the engine bay or back of the car. You could hear this sound from outside, especially my neighbors witnessed the sound from the sidewalk. when it happens it suddenly loses power and control of the vehicle. I reported this issue to Ford helpdesk but they mentioned there was no recall for my VIN. It almost feels like it would electrocute someone.

2026-10-06, Service Brakes
The ABS system fails to engage If the vehicle is coming to a stop and there is even the slightest bump on the road. ABS disengages the brakes which follows with a rapid acceleration of the vehicle instead of slowing down. Issue occurs even If one of the rear tires feels a slight bump. This issue occurs even on dry and hot conditions unrelated to slippery conditions. I am worried in slippery conditions it gets worse.

2026-09-08, Power Train
On Saturday at approximately 8:25 p.m., my 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid SEL abruptly entered limp mode while traveling on a major highway. The vehicle's speed rapidly dropped from approximately 60-65mph to 20 mph in heavy, high-speed (many driving over 70mph)traffic. I immediately activated my hazard lights and exited the highway at the first opportunity, narrowly avoiding a serious fatal collision. Today, Crossroads Ford in Apex, North Carolina, informed me that the issue was caused by a faulty engine sensor. Given the severe safety hazard this created and the existing recalls associated with this vehicle model, I am requesting that this matter be fully addressed. I am currently being told that

2026-08-15, Electrical System
The fuel door actuator malfunctioned, rendering the emergency release ineffective. This necessitated a replacement at 30,000 miles or four years from the manufacturing date. We believe that an inoperable fuel door presents a significant safety concern.

2026-07-30, Power Train
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle suddenly decelerated and failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was parked on the side of the road and was later towed to the local dealer. The vehicle was serviced by the dealer. No further information was available. The contact stated that after retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated and erroneously accelerated into an intersection. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.

2021 Ford Escape Hybrid questions

Does the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid: Engine May Stall or Catch Fire From Crankshaft Defect. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid?

Based on 124 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (36), Structure (32), Electrical System (23).

How do I check if a recall on my 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.