“The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. An unknown warning light was illuminated, and an audible ringing sound was coming from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 29, 2026 at 200,000 miles
“The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while stopped at a light and attempting to make a turn, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and became difficult to turn, and a crescent wrench warning light was illuminated.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 1, 2025 at 120,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2008 Escape peaked in 2014, with 309 filed that year. Owners had filed 322 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 14V284000 in May 2014; 721 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 13 so far.
5 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Floor Shift15V606000
Filed Sep 29, 201557 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2001-2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured March 31, 2001, to September 1, 2009. The affected vehicles are equipped with either a 2.3L or 3.0L engine and have had their CD4E transmission replaced with remanufactured one that was rebuilt between June 11, 2015 through July 15, 2015. These service repair part transmissions have a shift lever bolt that may not be properly tightened. As a result, the shift control lever could disengage from the transmission without warning.
Risk. If the shift lever disengages from the transmission, a driver may be unable to shift gear positions and the indicated shift position may not represent the gear position the vehicle is in. Should a disengagement occur while the vehicle is being driven, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, the gear selection indicator may show that the transmission is in the "PARK" position, but the vehicle transmission may not actually be in the "PARK" gear position. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transmissions and either tighten the manual shift lever bolt or replace the manual shift lever assembly. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S28.
Defect. The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
Risk. Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
Filed Sep 3, 201470,209 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Ford Escape hybrid electric vehicles manufactured October 13, 2003, to June 20, 2008, and 2006-2008 Mercury Mariner hybrid electric vehicles manufactured June 10, 2005, to June 20, 2008. The coolant pump for the hybrid system may fail resulting in the hybrid electronics overheating.
Risk. If the hybrid electronics system overheats, it may shut down the powertrain, resulting in a stall-like condition, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the original Motor Electronics Coolant (MEC) Pump with an improved brushless pump, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on October 27, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S19.
Filed May 29, 2014740,878 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist.
Risk. If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power steering control module (PSCM) and the instrument cluster module, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of the torque sensor signal or fault codes relating to the PSCM when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, the affected components will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on July 18, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S05.
Filed Sep 3, 2010294 vehiclesMarathon Seat Covers, Inc.
Defect. MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Risk. AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
Remedy. MARATHON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE SEAT COVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MARATHON AT 1-800-735-2769.
All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2008 Escape.
Loss of power steering while drivingDefect petition DP15001Closed
Opened Apr 1, 2015Closed Jun 14, 2018steering
On May 27, 2014, amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist while driving in approximately 746,067 model year (MY) 2008 through 2011 Ford Escape vehicles equipped with electric power assisted steering (NHTSA 14V-284, Ford 14S05). Ford's DIR described the defect condition as a poor signal to noise ratio [SNR] in the torque sensor within the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system [which] does not allow the PSCM to determine the driver's steering …
Electronic Throttle Body MalfunctionDefect petition DP12006Closed
Opened Oct 2, 2012Closed Feb 21, 2013engine
In a letter dated August 30, 2012, The North Carolina Consumers Council (NCCC) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a defect investigation of alleged electronic throttle body failures resulting in engine stall or surge while driving in model year (MY) 2005 through 2012 Ford Escape vehicles. On October 2, 2012 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Defect Petition DP12-006 to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. The petition is hereby granted on certain model years. The NCCC letter cites two complaints of stall while driving …
On october 14, 2008, odi opened pe08-060 to investigate allegations of cracked and leaking snap-in tire valves in model year (my) 2007 vehicles manufactured by FORD motor company.the valves were supplied to FORD by topseal auto-parts, a subsidiary of the shanghai baolong automotive corporation in china.valves made by topseal for aftermarket sale were the subject of two recent safety recalls by tech international (08t-018) and dill air controls (08t-028), the latter of which was investigated by odi in pe08-036 and ea08-022.the defect conditions addressed by the aftermarket tire valve recalls …
Technical service bulletins
41 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2008 Escape. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
transmission 10equipment 6electrical system 4engine 4steering 4brakes 4fuel system 4body and frame 2
2008-2012 FORD ESCAPE/MARINER: SERVICE INFORMATION INVOLVING THE POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE WITH DTC B2278- STEERING COLUMN REPLACEMENT IS NOT REQUIRED. *LJ
FORD 2008-2012 ESCAPE/MARINER: BULLETIN INFORMATION REGARDING STEERING CONTROL MODULE WITH DTC B2278, NOT REQUIRED TO HAVE STEERING COLUMN REPLACED. *LJ
FORD/MERCURY: IF DIAGNOSTIC CODE B2278 IS STORED IN POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE (PSCM), IT NEEDS REPLACING WITH TORQUE SENSOR SERVICE KIT THAT IS AVAILABLE AND IF NOT, DOES NOT APPLY. MODEL 2008-2012 ESCAPE, 2008-2011 MARINER. *PE
FORD/MERCURY: STEERING COLUMN POP/CLUNK NOISE ON TURNS. SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A POP OR CLUNK NOISE FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AREA WHILE TURNING. THIS NOISE TYPICALLY OCCURS QUARTER TURN BEFORE THE STEERING WHEEL REACHES IT'S END OF TRAVEL STOP AND TYPICALLY GOES AWAY WITH WEIGHT OFF THE WHEELS. *PE
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version tested
Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk
2008 Ford Escape 4-DR. w/SAB (Early release)
—
—
—
★★★★★
20.4%
2008 Ford Escape 4-DR. w/SAB (Later release)
—
—
—
★★★★★
20.4%
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Sep 2, 2026WA
Electronic power steering went out a couple times on me .
Steering
Filed Aug 12, 2026AL
Was driving on highway at 55 when the wrench warning light came on drove car to residence and turned it off, when car was cranked again it had no power steering. Vin number was not included in recall on same issue. Has not been fixed.
Power Train
Filed Jun 22, 2026116,000 milesIL
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle and driving from a parking lot at 5 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle, and the transmission skipped second and forth gear, and remained in third gear. The vehicle hesitated and stalled. An Independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed a bolt failure and that the transmission bands needed to be replaced. The transmission band was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 116,000.
Steering
Filed Apr 30, 2026175,548 milesCA
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH on the highway, the steering wheel seized. The failure was intermittent. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure recurred while reversing out of the driveway. The dealer was notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,548
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Apr 14, 2026136,000 milesMD
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the powertrain malfunction warning light and the ABS warning light were illuminated. The driver was able to pull over, the battery was disconnected and reconnected, and the contact was able to continue driving. The brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard when the ABS light was illuminated. While reversing, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted and stated that the repairs would be at the owner's expense. Another local dealer, Bob Davidson Ford Lincoln, located at 1845 E Joppa Rd, Baltimore, MD 21234, was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall and referred the contact to the local dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.
Steering
Filed Apr 6, 2026190,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became firm and failed to turn to the left or the right. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it remained for several weeks; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.
Steering
Filed Mar 17, 2026MD
The power steering torque sensor went out. It was recalled, the repair was made, but the part is failing again. It is creating a safety issue. Ford won't re-repair. The part they put in is failing again. It has been less than 15 years since they put in the recalled part.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 2, 2026KY
Check engine light keeps flashing, car vibration, bad head gasket, oil and fluid leak
Steering
Filed Feb 18, 2026OH
The power steering started going out at low speeds and eventually just stopped working. The car keeps saying power steering assist fault. The power steering no longer works.
Steering
Filed Feb 4, 2026CA
Forscan showing torque sensor malfunction, the same issue that was recalled in 2014. Causing loss of power steering
Steering
Filed Jan 29, 2026200,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. An unknown warning light was illuminated, and an audible ringing sound was coming from the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Steering
Filed Jan 26, 2026CA
The electronic power steering stopped working and it is almost impossible to move or turn the car. Dashboard shows fault. This is a Ford Escape Hybrid 2008 model with 142,000 miles. The car has not been repaired and I have yet to take it to a Ford dealership.
Steering
Filed Jan 24, 2026OR
Vehicle: 2008 Ford Escape VIN: [XXX] Component: Steering – Electric Power Steering Assist Recall Involved: 14S05 / NHTSA 14V-284000 Description of the Safety Problem: My vehicle is experiencing a recurrence of electric power steering assist failure after a prior safety recall repair. This 2008 Ford Escape was subject to Safety Recall 14S05 (NHTSA Campaign 14V-284000), which addresses sudden loss of electric power steering assist due to a torque sensor fault. This condition can occur while driving and results in significantly increased steering effort, creating a safety risk. Ford records show the recall was marked “completed” on November 22, 2014. In a written response dated December 22, 2025, Ford Motor Company confirmed that the recall remedy consisted only of software reprogramming of the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) and Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). No mechanical components (including the torque sensor or steering column) were replaced. In 2025, the same steering assist failure recurred, resulting in heavy steering effort and renewed safety concerns. This indicates that the recall remedy did not correct the underlying defect. Ford Motor Company has acknowledged in writing that: The recall was software-only The recall is closed No current programs provide coverage for the recurring steering failure Ford denied further assistance strictly on eligibility grounds and did not dispute the recurrence of the defect or its safety implications. Because this is a recurrenc
Steering
Filed Dec 26, 2025OR
Manufacturer failed to respond to certified written request for recall coverage determination.
Steering
Filed Dec 26, 2025OR
Manufacturer failed to respond to certified mail requesting recall coverage determination. All official Ford customer service and executive escalation email addresses returned as undeliverable
Steering
Filed Dec 1, 2025CA
POWER ASSIST STEERING FAILURE light appears on dash board The power steering went out
Steering
Filed Dec 1, 2025120,000 milesCO
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while stopped at a light and attempting to make a turn, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and became difficult to turn, and a crescent wrench warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was provided error code B2278 and informed that the steering column motor had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
Steering
Filed Nov 13, 2025OR
Please see uploaded documents. One is a letter to Ford, and Damerow Ford. The other is receipts for sending certified mail, return receipt, signature requested, to have a response within 30 business days. We've contacted the dealership, emailed [XXX] , and customer service, and spoke to customer service to have a case number. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 22, 2025SC
The gear shift bushing failed . I was lucky . Drive into driveway on a hill. Went to shift to park and the lever started to act like it wasn’t connected and started rolling backwards. While shifting it was in the neutral position. I quickly braked and turned car off . Had to use emergency brake. The dealership said it was recalled but this VIN wasn’t included . I ordered new cable but was told it was easier to replace bushing.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 11, 2025CA
Driving down the road and out of nowhere all the dash light come on, the speedometer and rpm all go to zero. I am able to still control the car and drive down, the only thing that won’t work besides the dash cluster is the air conditioning. Hitting a bump or smacking the dash normally turns off the dash light and I can see my speed and rpm’s again. I took it to ford for them to diagnose and they said the dash cluster is what’s bad. It’s very scary to drive because the lights come on so often and I’m fearful I’m going to lose more control of the vehicle.
Steering
Filed Aug 25, 2025159,000 milesOR
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring an increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 159,000.
Steering
Filed Aug 14, 2025OH
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH and making a turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact was able to make the turn, but the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The contact stated that the failure was initially intermittent but had become a persistent failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was called several times, but was unreachable, and the mailbox was full. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Steering
Filed Aug 4, 2025NE
The power steering in my '08 Ford Escape has intermitten issues, and does not engage sometimes (especially when starting the vehicle). There was a recall by Ford (recall id: 14S05) in 2014, and when I called the Ford Customer Service, they said the recall was repaired in 2015. They said my current issue would not be covered under the recall. I called my local Ford Dealership, and they said they would likely not cover the repair either. This recall is for the Electronic Power Steering, which is a major safety issue.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 29, 2025GA
Hazard flashers turn on by themselves any rime night or day even while driving. Transmission oil cooler leaks. Transmission shift lever bushing in shift cable broke [ Thankfully while not on the road ] This car only has 25,000 miles on it
Steering
Filed Jul 15, 2025OH
While driving, steering column locked up and could not turn - nearly causing crash. Steering column is not key locked, but still will not turn in any position. A few small clicks right behind the steering and one loud click immediately before strong locked up was the only indicator that something was wrong.
Steering
Filed Jul 14, 202567,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the steering wheel became firm and difficult to turn. The contact stated that the air bag and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
Latches/Locks/Linkages1 injured
Filed Jun 25, 2025148,000 milesKS
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon arriving to her destination and pulling into a parking lot, after shifting the vehicle into park(P), the vehicle inadvertently lost electrical power and all electrical functionality, and the contact became locked inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred three times. Due to the failure, the contact was unable to exit the vehicle and suffered heat strokes during a hot summer day. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer was unable to provide the cause for the failure. The contact stated that the mechanic at the dealer was also locked inside the vehicle due to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 148,000.
Steering
Filed Jun 8, 2025OR
It has the no power steering problem just like the other vehicles of the same model and year.
Steering
Filed May 17, 2025WA
I have a constant issue with the power steering. This issue makes it hard for my vehicle to turn properly as well as when you go to turn a corner you have to be a body builder to get the car to even turn. At times I can't even drive my car because it gets so bad. Along with this issue I also have a wheel bearing issue in the front suspension. To me this issue feels like my whole car is going to rattle apart while I am driving it. To add to it, the propulsion system, it has a constant whine, tries to stall, and sometimes it will not get up to speed nor gain speed. There has been times when I am driving my car that I have to pull over to the side of the road very carefully because I feel like my car is going to die and then when I turn it off and then back on it acts like it has absolutely no power. I haven't gone anywhere to get my vehicle checked yet. But I have done extensive research on the issues that I am having with my vehicle and the three main issues are a recall for same year and same year make and model.
Steering
Filed May 15, 2025NY
Power Steering fail. Went to a doctor's appointment, when leaving I start backing up to leave the parking spot and the power steering was too hard, stiff & very difficult to turn end so end up pulling back into the parking spot. Turn OFF the vehicle then open the hood, inspect the hood and under the car, check fuses and everything was fine. No warning light or anything in the dashboard. Turn ON the vehicle again after a few and give it another try but still was really hard to turn. I end up calling a family member for help and end up towing the car.This could have been a serious accident or injury if happened while driving. While doing research about the issues I found out that there was a recall related to the issue 14a05, NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was diagnosed by a local mechanic but has not been repair.
Steering
Filed Apr 30, 2025IA
The power steering goes out. There is not warning light. The vehicle has been to several mechanic shops. They are able to reset the system and it works temporarily, but happens again. There were no warnings, or other symptoms. It happens out of the blue, and could potentially cause an accident.
Steering
Filed Apr 29, 2025TX
The power steering failed, turning my steering wheel all the way to the left with excessive force. A safety recall exists for my type of vehicle but my vehicle VIN Number is not included recall, numbered 14S05 For Ford Escape model years 2008 - 2011
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 21, 2025CA
In rainy conditions, executed a hard stop activating the ABS. After successfully activating, the brakes go almost to the floor, and ABS function has stopped. No air in brake system, and master cylinder checks out good. Seems dangerous that the one time you really need ABS, it goes out. No warning lights on dash, mechanic has confirmed issue.
Steering
Filed Mar 12, 2025145,000 milesCA
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that occasionally while driving at undisclosed speeds, the steering wheel became stiff and difficult to turn in either direction. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed. In addition, the contact stated that the failure had worsened. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The vehicle was taken to a local independent service center for a second opinion and the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the steering shaft and steering sensor kit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. An appointment with the local independent service center was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 2, 2025AZ
While the person was driving the wheel suddenly became stiff and very difficult to turn but luckily was in his neighborhood to park it. This could have been a very deadly crash if it happened anywhere else or suddenly on the main road. The person could have been seriously injured due to this malfunction or other people as well. This problem has been confirmed by ford and they issued a recall in 2014 for this exact same issue. The issue with the recall is my vehicle was manufactured during this 3 year period time of faulty manufacturing but is still not included in the recall list and so many other Americans are dealing with the same issue and no repairs. I would like ford to be held accountable and extend the vin list of cars needing repairs. No the vehicle has not been inspected. There were no warning lamps prior until the incident which it now says power steering assist fault.
Steering
Filed Feb 24, 2025160,000 milesCO
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while the vehicle was parked. The failure had occurred on several occasions. No warning light was illuminated; however, the "Power Steering Failure Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle remained at the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Steering
Filed Feb 12, 2025NJ
The steering wheel began to shake while parked. The wrench light came on and the steering wheel became stiff while driving. After researching it is apparent it is the torgue sensor as Ford had a recall for previous 2008-2011 Ford & Mercury vehicles torgue sensors. 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid Recall Item Affected: Date Announced: 05/29/2014 Description of Recall: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a steering torque sensor that may not be able to properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the Electric Power Steering (EPS) assist. Action Need To Fix It: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power steering control module (PSCM) and the instrument cluster module, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of the torque sensor signal or fault codes relating to the PSCM when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, the affected components will be replaced, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by July 25, 2014.
Steering
Filed Feb 11, 2025121,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving downhill at 40 MPH, the steering wheel became stiff, and the "Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and restarted; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was connected to a handheld diagnostic machine by a friend who stated that there was a failure with a sensor within the steering column. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 121,000.
Steering
Filed Feb 8, 2025IN
So the wheel is very hard to drive and turn. I took it to the dealer tom wood ford in indianapolis indiana and i let them know about the issue and they ended up only fixing the water pump which it was recalled and im sure the power steering has to have some type of recall . I usally drive and my kids ride with me and to have that fault of 2008 FORD Escape power steering assist fault light and be very hard to drive it can cause to have a motor vehicle accident because while driving it looses power
Steering
Filed Feb 6, 2025MI
My power steering goes out. I have to turn my car off, let it sit and turn it back on. Then I have power steering but then while I'm driving it goes out again. I looked up the issues and found out that there was a recall for the torque sensor on 2008 escapes but mine wasn't included in the recall and I am am having the same issue that the recall is for. I can be doing 25mph and it goes out sometimes when I start my car I automatically don't have power steering but if I turn it out and back on I do.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 22, 2025OH
The vehicle frequently shuts down with a stop safely now light displaying on the dash. Gives maybe a 5-10 second warning before the vehicle is immobile. Has not caused an accident for us but has occurred abruptly on busy roads increasing the risk of one. However, it usually occurs when idling in a drive through or light etc. The vehicle also frequently does something that causes the clock and date to reset to 2004. This seems to always occur between drives overnight.
Steering
Filed Jan 15, 2025IL
The power steering assist has gone out but I don't understand why it is not included in it
Steering
Filed Dec 9, 2024112,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The contact researched and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
Steering
Filed Oct 9, 2024150,000 milesWV
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality and excessive effort was needed to turn the steering wheel. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with a defective power steering column. The contact was informed that the steering column needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was also notified of the failure and the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was given the same diagnosis as the independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Oct 8, 202481,000 milesOH
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic for a tire rotation, and the contact was informed that the subframe was rusted. In addition, the contact stated that upon further inspection at the same local independent mechanic during another routine tire rotation, it was noticed that the failure had worsened. The local dealer was contacted; however, the contact was advised that rust was a category that was not inspected or repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000. The VIN was not available.
Steering
Filed Sep 19, 2024VA
MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVE TO COLLEGE AND STOPPED FOR GAS. SHE CALLED ME SAYING THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILURE. BUT SHE HAD NOT LOST POWER STEERING. SHE CALLED ME A FEW HOURS LATER SAYING SHE COULD NOT TURN HER STEERING WHEEL TO GET TURNED AROUND TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL. I CAME TO ASSIST HER AND SURE ENOUGH THE STEERING WAS VERY HARD TO TURN, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WAS BLINK ON THE DASH AND THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. I FINALLY GOT THE CAR TURNED AROUND AND STARTED BACK TO OUR MECHANIAC. SHE FOLLOWED BEHIND. I FOUND THE SLOWER I WOULD GO THE HARDER IT BECAME TO STEER. I DID A SOLID 50-55 MPH ALL THE WAY THERE BUT COULD FEEL THE TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL. WE MADE IT TO THE GARAGE. THE MECHANIC CALLED THE NEXT DAY AND SAID HE COULDN'T GET IT TO START AND WE NEEDED TO TAKE TO A FORD DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE CAR SCANNED. WE CALLED THE FORD DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T GET TO IT FOR ANOTHER 2-3 WEEKS AND REFERRED US TO A COMPANY IN A 4-5 HOUR AWAY TO GET A USED PART AND COME TO US TO FIX. WE RESEARCHED IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS AND FOUND 14S05. SINCE WE ARE THE SECOND OWNER OF THE CAR AND NEVER WERE NOTIFIED OF A RECALL OR WERE TOLD ABOUT A CURRENT RECALL AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE, WE STARTED TO SEARCH IF THE RECALL HAD BEEN FIXED BY THE FIRST OWNER (OUT OF POCKET) OR THROUGH THE RECALL. PLEASE ANY INFORMATION AND/OR GUIDANCE WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
Tires
Filed Aug 26, 2024CA
Tire size: P235/70 R16 Since April, 2024 this tire started inflated every week. After 2-3 weeks trial I decided to take it to the tire shop, after they tested it, no error was detected. Then they told me that technically this tire is defected. It costed me $75-90.00 bucks just for the diagnostics. At that point, I did not have a choice but to buy a new tire. The new tire cost me another $140.00+, before down time and a waste of energy. Time is everything in this country. Thank you,
Steering
Filed Aug 19, 2024OR
The contact owns a 2008 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Power Steering Assist Fault," message displayed; after which, the driver became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Steering
Filed Jul 28, 2024MN
Driving and lost power steering. Replaced torque sensor within the steering column, but power steering is still a no go.
Steering
Filed Jul 16, 2024GA
The power steering while driving goes out and trys locking
Complaints 1-50 of 1,974, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Escape years to avoid. Owners filed 1,974 complaints, against about 1,082 for a typical Escape year. The most common complaint is about the steering (53%).
What is the most common problem with the 2008 Ford Escape?
The steering: 1,043 of the 1,974 complaints (53%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (26%), loses power (17%) and vibrates or shakes (15%). The typical report comes at 116,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2008 Ford Escape have?
5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 29, 2015. The largest, 14V284000, covered 740,878 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2008 Ford Escape problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 100,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 116,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2008 Ford Escape?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, DP15001 ("Loss of power steering while driving"), was opened Apr 1, 2015 and closed Jun 14, 2018.
Are there service bulletins for the 2008 Ford Escape?
The manufacturer filed 41 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (10), the electrical system (4) and the engine (4). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Sep 29, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.