2023 Ford Edge Safety Report
2023 Ford Edge: Excellent Crash Ratings, But Plagued by Transmission Issues, Electrical Glitches, and Four Safety Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Ford Edge
Reliability Score
The 2023 Ford Edge receives a reliability score of 65 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.
Known Issues for the 2023 Ford Edge
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Ford Edge:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure/Malfunction Multiple reports of shuddering, unexpected downshifting, and complete transmission failure requiring replacement, even at low mileage. |
High | Common | 0-30000 miles |
| Apim/Infotainment Screen Malfunction Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) software issues causing the main display to blank out, affecting climate control (defrosters) and rearview camera. |
Medium | Common | 0-10000 miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Software issues can prevent the rearview camera from displaying an image, increasing the risk of a crash (subject to two recalls). |
High | Common | 0-10000 miles |
| Unintended Vehicle Movement Vehicle lunges forward or backward after parking or turning off the engine, despite brake pedal depression. |
High | Occasional | 0-5000 miles |
| Cruise Control Malfunction Cruise control fails to disengage even after hitting the brakes or during a collision. |
High | Rare | 0-5000 miles |
| Hands-Free Liftgate Malfunction Liftgate erroneously activates or comes down on a person, with no option to disable the feature. |
Medium | Occasional | 0-5000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Ford Edge:
Frequent complaints about transmission issues including shuddering, unexpected downshifts, and complete failure.
Issues with the APIM causing screen blanking, affecting climate control and rearview camera, and general electrical malfunctions.
Two recalls issued for rearview camera software issues preventing image display.
Recall for front right headlight being too bright or aimed incorrectly, causing glare.
Recall for insufficient child seat tether wire welds on the second-row left-side seat back frame.
Complaint regarding cruise control not disengaging after impact or braking.
Complaint about doors automatically unlocking while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Ford Edge
Is the 2023 Ford Edge safe?
The 2023 Ford Edge received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has been subject to 4 safety recalls, including critical issues with the rearview camera and child seat anchors, and has 14 consumer complaints, with 1 injury and 1 crash reported. While crash protection is strong, reliability concerns, particularly with the transmission and electrical system, are present.
What are common problems with the 2023 Ford Edge?
The most reported issues for the 2023 Ford Edge include power train problems (14% of complaints) such as transmission shuddering and failure, and electrical system malfunctions (14% of complaints) often related to the infotainment screen (APIM) blanking out and affecting climate controls. Other concerns include unintended vehicle movement, cruise control not disengaging, and faulty hands-free liftgate operation.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Ford Edge?
Yes, the 2023 Ford Edge has 4 active recalls. These include two recalls for rearview camera software issues, one for an incorrectly aimed or overly bright front right headlight, and one for insufficient child seat tether wire welds on the second-row left-side seat back frame.
How does the 2023 Ford Edge perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Ford Edge performs very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the transmission in a 2023 Ford Edge?
Based on NHTSA complaints, there are multiple reports of significant transmission issues, including shuddering, unexpected downshifting, and complete failure requiring replacement, even at low mileage. This suggests a potential concern that prospective buyers should be aware of and investigate further.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2023 Ford Edge's notable recall history and recurring complaints regarding transmission and electrical system reliability; thoroughly check recall completion and consider an extended warranty.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Ford Edge
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Ford Edge. The data includes 14 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 Ford Edge an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 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.