2016 Ford Escape Safety Report
2016 Ford Escape: Strong crash ratings, but significant powertrain issues and critical recalls for fire, unintended movement, and airbag defects.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ford Escape
Reliability Score
The 2016 Ford Escape receives a reliability score of 55 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 2016 Ford Escape
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ford Escape:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cvt Transmission Failure Numerous complaints describe sudden transmission failure, loss of power, or inability to shift, often requiring costly rebuilds or replacements. |
High | Common | 80000-100000 miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction The rearview camera frequently displays a black screen, distorted image, or upside-down view, reducing driver visibility and increasing crash risk, as addressed by recall 25V695000. |
Medium | Common | any miles |
| Engine Block Heater Fire Risk A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V873000) addresses a defect where the engine block heater may crack and leak coolant, leading to an electrical short and increased fire risk. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
| Shifter Cable Bushing Detachment A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V471000) indicates the shifter cable bushing can detach, preventing the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear and potentially causing unexpected movement. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
| Driver'S Knee Airbag Non-Deployment A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V621000) states the driver's knee airbag modules may lack inflator gas generant, preventing proper deployment and increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Rare | any miles |
| Engine Overheating/Loss Of Power Owners report instances of the engine overheating, blowing white smoke, or suddenly losing power while driving. |
High | Occasional | any miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Ford Escape:
The most reported issue, with 256 complaints, primarily involves transmission failures, inability to shift, and unexpected vehicle movement.
With 100 complaints, issues include engine overheating, loss of power, and various check engine light illuminations related to engine performance.
70 complaints relate to the rearview camera malfunctioning, displaying black screens, distorted, or upside-down images, directly linked to a recall.
57 complaints mention steering issues, including problems with the rack and pinion.
44 complaints specifically address engine cooling system failures, contributing to overheating issues.
35 complaints, including issues like purge valve failures and problems with starting after refueling.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford Escape
Is the 2016 Ford Escape safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Ford Escape received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), indicating good occupant protection. However, it has a high number of owner complaints (947 total) and four significant recalls addressing fire risk, unintended vehicle movement, rearview camera failure, and non-deploying airbags. While crashworthy, its reliability and potential for critical component failures are concerns.
What are common problems with the 2016 Ford Escape?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Ford Escape are related to the POWER TRAIN (256 complaints), primarily transmission failures, and the ENGINE (100 complaints), including overheating and loss of power. Additionally, there are frequent complaints about the BACK OVER PREVENTION system (70 complaints), specifically the rearview camera malfunctioning.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Ford Escape?
Yes, there are four recalls for the 2016 Ford Escape. These include recalls for a fire risk from the engine block heater, rearview camera malfunctions, a shifter cable bushing that can cause unintended vehicle movement, and a driver's knee airbag that may not deploy.
How does the 2016 Ford Escape perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Ford Escape performed well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving an overall 4-star safety rating. It earned 4 stars for frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the transmission in a 2016 Ford Escape?
Yes, the transmission is a significant concern. POWER TRAIN is the most complained-about component with 256 reports, many detailing transmission failures, loss of drive, and difficulty shifting. This is also linked to a recall regarding the shifter cable bushing, which could lead to unintended vehicle movement.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of powertrain complaints and critical recalls, potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the transmission and engine, and ensure all four recalls have been completed by a Ford dealership.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ford Escape
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ford Escape. The data includes 947 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 30 reported crashes, 10 fire incidents, 19 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Ford Escape 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.