NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 4 owner complaints for the 2025 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid. Most complaints involve electrical system (3) and forward collision avoidance (1). NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Ford Escape and 2023-2026 Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“The digits no longer display on the speedometer gauge of the electronic dashboard. Digits on the high voltage battery discharge and charging gauge also do not display. Given those failures, I have concerns about warning lights that may not be working. The lack of proper speed indication increases the possibility of a collision. The lack of presence of the digits that are supposed to be there has been distracting and increases the possibility of a collision. Note: This seems to be the same or similar to a defect in the gas version of this model, for which there was a recall.”
“The contact owns a 2025 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the cruise control independently activated. The brake pedal was depressed. In addition, the contact turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle started. The vehicle was reset. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a lithium battery failure, and an unknown software update was performed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while reversing, the intelligent cruise control independently activated. The contact stated that the cruise control reversed the vehicle at approximately 45 MPH. The brake pedal was depressed with extreme force, and the vehicle stopped. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was a persistent failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not yet inspected. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60.”
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Nov 12, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 4 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (3), forward collision avoidance (1). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2025 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid 5 out of 5 stars overall.