2018 Ford Ecosport Safety Report
2018 Ford EcoSport Safety Analysis
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Ford Ecosport. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (2) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (710) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 19 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine And Engine Cooling | Compare engine and engine cooling issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2022 | Compare against the 2022 Ford Ecosport with 10 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2019 | Check the 2019 Ford Ecosport before buying across this generation. |
Ford Ecosport Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Ford Ecosport years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Ford Ecosport | 439 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Ford Ecosport | 365 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Ford Ecosport | 234 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2022 Ford Ecosport | 10 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2018 Ford Ecosport Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Ford Ecosport, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine And Engine Cooling
262 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling issues Ford onlyEngine
207 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Ford onlyPower Train,Engine
25 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine issues Ford onlyUnknown Or Other,Engine
19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other,Engine issues Ford onlyEngine And Engine Cooling,Engine
19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling,Engine issues Ford onlyUnknown Or Other
17 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Ford onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
Reliability Score
The 2018 Ford Ecosport receives a reliability score of 50 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Ford Ecosport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Pump Failure Recalled due to potential failure of the oil pump, leading to engine shutdown and safety concerns. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Flex Plate Crack Flex plate cracks have been reported, requiring replacement and affecting vehicle performance. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine Shutdown At Stoplight Vehicles have unexpectedly shut off at stoplights, posing safety risks. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Accelerating On Braking The vehicle has accelerated instead of slowing down when the brakes are applied, indicating a serious safety issue. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Ford Ecosport:
Engine issues are the most common problem, with recalls and unexpected shutdowns.
Problems with engine cooling systems, including oil pump failures, are frequent.
Flex plate cracks have been reported, affecting vehicle performance.
Vehicles have experienced multiple recalls, with no immediate repair available.
Recall Details for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
The following 2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Ford Ecosport by NHTSA:
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ford Focus and 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport vehicles. The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner may fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure.
Consequence: A loss of oil pressure can result in an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the oil pump tensioner assembly and oil pump drive belt, free of charge. If engine failure occurs due to a damaged oil pump belt and/or oil pump belt tensioner, Ford has authorized dealers to replace the engine assembly as an interim repair before the availability of remedy parts for the final repair. This repair will be free of charge (parts and labor). Owner notification l...
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Ecosport vehicles sold in the United States Federal Territiories. These vehicles were shipped with the European brake reservoir pictogram cap label and the European English language owner's manual kits. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence: Owners could be confused by the incorrect label on the brake fluid cap, potentially causing them to replace the brake fluid with an incorrect fluid which could affect brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake fluid cap and owner's manual kit, free of charge. The recall began on June 21, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18C04.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Ford Ecosport with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes.
I was at stop light went to take my foot off brake to go when light was green car shut completely off. I quickly put hazard lights on then put car in park to restart car. Lucky car didn’t rear in me. Safety recall •Vehicle shuts off in traffic •Unsafe to drive •Loss of wages •No transportation provided •Second recall with long delay
The contact owns a 2018 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that after having the engine replaced in 2023 and being reimbursed following a subsequent recall, the vehicle experienced engine failure. The contact stated that while the official fix was released, the replacement engine that was installed in the vehicle was not equipped with the official fix. The dealer was notified of the failure. The ve...
In mid-2024, I was notified of a recall (23S64 / 23V905) involving the engine oil pump belt. When I attempted to schedule repairs, I was told parts were not available. I was instructed to watch for loss of oil pressure and speed and to pull over immediately if it occurred. In January 2025, my vehicle lost oil pressure and speed while driving. I pulled over and had it towed. Ford directed me to a ...
2018 eco sport , 1 L engine . Bought this car 2 years ago(April 2024) used (58xxx) miles from Corwin Honda in Fargo nd and test drove and asked about the car . Asked if safe for my family , recalls ,history ..they said no issues ,recalls or crashes . All were untrue we are just finding out . I was driving imin the dark and suddenly,no warning etc my car says low engine oil pressure . I had kids...
My Ford EcoSport had safety recall 23S64 performed at Diamond Ford in Lancaster, California. The recall involved the oil pump drive belt system. After the recall repair was completed, the vehicle began displaying a low oil pressure warning and the engine started shaking. These symptoms involve the same oil system addressed in the recall. Because the vehicle is now experiencing low oil pressure a...
My car began rattling. I brough it to Ray Price Ford and was told the Flex Plate is cracked and needs replacement. My car only has 50,000 miles on it and the Flex Plate is a covered repair on other models from the same year. I called Ford and referred to the CSP 22n12 but was told my car is not covered under this program. I requested Good Will assistance and was also denied. I am not sure why...
While driving toward the freeway on January 16, 2026, I pressed my brakes and the vehicle failed to slow or stop. Instead, the vehicle accelerated. I reacted quickly to avoid a head-on collision but was involved in a crash. When pressing on my brakes there were audible sounds from from my hood. As if my car wanted to stop but wouldn’t. My engine previously failed for the same reason. When the se...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford EcoSport. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The contact had not experienced a failure before the recall repair; however, the contact experienced failures after the recall repair. The contact stated the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and failed to exceed 30 MPH. A...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufa...
The affected systems are the engine and powertrain. After completion of Safety Recall 23S64 (NHTSA #23V905) in November 2025, my vehicle began experiencing repeated loss of power, stalling, and reduced-power “limp mode” events. The check engine light illuminated and diagnostic trouble code P0299 (Turbocharger Underboost Condition) was identified. The vehicle remains available for inspection upon r...
The contact owns a 2020 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, while the vehicle was stopped at a traffic signal, it stalled. After several attempts, the vehicle re...
I received the recall Notice 23S64/NHTSA23V905 from the dealership where I purchased my Ford Ecosport in August 2025. I called the dealership to schedule the repair on August 28, 2025. I spoke with Brandon from the service dept. He told me that they would need the car for two weeks to even determine IF the part in my vehicle indeed needed to be replaced and then, if so, they would have to see if t...
Vehicle has an open safety recall with no repair available. I have been waiting over two years for parts with no ETA from the manufacturer or dealership. During this time, the vehicle has experienced loss of power while driving, creating a safety risk. The dealership has acknowledged the recall but cannot complete the repair due to parts unavailability. The vehicle remains unsafe to operate, and t...
On July 9th, 2025, our car's engine failed. It was discovered that it was due to the safety recall 23S64 (Engine Oil Pump Failure). We were ill advised by Ford motor company customer relations specialist and ended up paying almost 1,000 for a rental car that should have been covered by the recall. We waited almost 5 months, to receive the car back fixed. It took us begging for the car to be shippe...
See attached letter!
The contact owns a 2018 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000(Engine and Engine Cooling) advising that the parts needed to complete the recall repair were now available and to contact the local dealer. Upon contacting the local dealer, the contact was informed that no repairs would be performed on the vehicle unless the engine failure had occurred. T...
Vehicle is not running and was at the dealership for recall and dealership said that ford denied claim and ford said dealership denied claim. Dealership said it’s something from oil and that it’s not issue from recall however all problems and issues fall within the recall damage. I called ford and they said the dealership are the ones who denied it. They also caused and did more damage to the veh...
Recall work done on 2018 Ford Ecosport. Next day leaking oil at all four corners of oil pan. Took back to dealership and the repaired but didn’t document it. About one week later oil and other fluids leaking from all over. Took back to dealership and they repaired but charged me a deductible stating it wasn’t really due to the recall work. I think it was. About 11 days later fluids leaking/pouring...
Three days after I purchased the vehicle from ideal cars, I went to Showlow, Arizona and the car on the hill started spitting and sputtering lost power and shut off and I had to pull over to the side about 20 minutes later. It was able to start again and we went Then a week later I went to Payson, Arizona and my vehicle again lost power on the hill and shut off and I had to pull over to the side a...
In January 2024, Ford issued Safety Recall 23S64 / NHTSA Recall 23V905 for my 2018 Ford EcoSport for critical engine oil pump failure causing loss of engine power AND power braking assistance - a defect that has caused crashes and injuries. Parts were not available until August 2025 (19 months later). This defect caused catastrophic engine damage in my car requiring complete engine replacement. M...
Showing 20 of 710 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2018 Ford Ecosport
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Oil/Lubrication:Pump
Opened 2023-09-20 · Closed 2024-02-14
On September 20, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-015 to investigate instances of engine failure due to loss of oil pressure in model year (MY) 2018-2021 Ford EcoSport vehicles. Some consumers reported a low engine oil pressure warning lamp immediately preceding a complete loss or reduction of motive power while the vehicle was in motion. The investigation revealed that the engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm may fracture, separate from the tensioner backing plate...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ford Ecosport
Has the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT have?
The 2018 FORD ECOSPORT has 710 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 17 involved crashes. 7 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
The 2018 FORD ECOSPORT received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT involve engine and engine cooling (262 complaints), engine (207 complaints), power train,engine (25 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other,engine, engine and engine cooling,engine, unknown or other.
How many crash reports does the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT have?
There are 17 crash reports associated with the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT out of 710 total complaints (2.4% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT have?
There are 2 fire reports for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT out of 710 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
7 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT is proceed with caution. It has 710 complaints, 2 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT are: 1. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (262 complaints), 2. ENGINE (207 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN,ENGINE (25 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE (19 complaints), 5. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE (19 complaints). ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING is the single most-reported problem area with 262 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
Be cautious of the engine and engine cooling issues, as they are frequent and can pose safety risks. Ensure the vehicle is regularly serviced and check for recalls. The 2018 FORD ECOSPORT has 710 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
The 2018 FORD ECOSPORT receives a reliability score of 50/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 710 owner complaints, 2 recalls, and 19 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Oil Pump Failure and Flex Plate Crack.
What are the known issues with the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT?
Known issues with the 2018 FORD ECOSPORT include: Engine Oil Pump Failure, Flex Plate Crack, Engine Shutdown at Stoplight, Accelerating on Braking. These are based on patterns found across 710 NHTSA complaints. 2 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common safety issues with the 2018 Ford EcoSport?
Engine and engine cooling issues, including oil pump failures and unexpected shutdowns, are the most common.
Can the vehicle accelerate when braking?
Yes, there have been reports of the vehicle accelerating instead of slowing down when the brakes are applied.
What should I do if I receive a recall notice for my 2018 Ford EcoSport?
Schedule the repair as soon as possible to address any safety concerns.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of the engine and engine cooling issues, as they are frequent and can pose safety risks. Ensure the vehicle is regularly serviced and check for recalls.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Ford Ecosport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Ford Ecosport. The data includes 710 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 17 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Ford Ecosport an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-15