2010 Ford Escape

Above average

Owners filed 2,071 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Ford Escape years to avoid. Which Ford Escape years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
59,908 milesMedian miles at failure

1,760 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2010 Ford Escape problems

381 of the 2,071 complaints (18%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering377
702
Engine328
102
Power Train · transmission301
210
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system296
110
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration267
612
Electrical System119
000
Structure › Body · body and frame52
403
Unknown or Other45
000
Service Brakes · brakes37
000
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system29
000

2010 Ford Escape steering problems

18% of all complaints

381 of the 2,071 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks34% · 128
  • sets off warning lights on the dash25% · 96
  • loses power17% · 65
  • vibrates or shakes9% · 34

Share of the 381 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
115,000 mi
median of 286 reports
Peak year of filing
2018
67 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
7 · 0 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
“Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist Power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds. Steering locks up while driving. This has happened 3 times within the last 6 months. Before this, the last few years it has been difficult starting the car with the key. It would take multiple tries before starting.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 26, 2026
“Power steering assist failure on the message board. Making it hard to turn come on and off at different times. Changed rack and pion and steering wheel sensor. Started in Dec 2025 continuing to present”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 24, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2009: 1 complaints, 0 about the steering'092010: 49 complaints, 2 about the steering2011: 26 complaints, 2 about the steering'112012: 89 complaints, 5 about the steering2013: 910 complaints, 2 about the steering'132014: 160 complaints, 16 about the steering2015: 90 complaints, 22 about the steering'152016: 100 complaints, 30 about the steering2017: 127 complaints, 34 about the steering'172018: 150 complaints, 67 about the steering2019: 86 complaints, 45 about the steering'192020: 72 complaints, 32 about the steering2021: 46 complaints, 26 about the steering'212022: 42 complaints, 33 about the steering2023: 42 complaints, 21 about the steering'232024: 35 complaints, 21 about the steering2025: 28 complaints, 14 about the steering'252026: 18 complaints, 9 about the steeringRecall 10V222000 (transmission)Recall 10E043000 (equipment)Recall 14V284000 (steering)Recall 15E045000 (suspension)Recall 16V777000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation DP15001NHTSA investigation PE13003NHTSA investigation DP12006NHTSA investigation PE11016
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2010 Escape peaked in 2013, with 910 filed that year. Owners had filed 19 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 14V284000 in May 2014; 362 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 18 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump16V777000
Filed Oct 26, 2016329,265 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 13, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S41.

Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing15E045000
Filed Jun 3, 2015576 vehiclesTimken Company

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.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System14V284000
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.

Equipment10E043000
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.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission10V222000
Filed May 24, 201019 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 FUSION, MILAN, AND ESCAPE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 27, THROUGH MARCH 26, 2010. THE PARK ROD GUIDE RETENTION PIN MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY INSTALLED WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION".

Risk. A VEHICLE PARKED WITHOUT AN ENGAGED PARK PAWL AND WITHOUT AN APPLIED PARKING BRAKE MAY HAVE UNINTENDED MOVEMENT WHICH MAY CAUSE A CRASH.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332 AND FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1-800-232-5952 (TDD). REPRESENTATIVES ARE AVAILABLE MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY: 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

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. 4 name the 2010 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 MalfunctionPreliminary evaluation PE13003Closed
Opened Feb 21, 2013Closed Feb 28, 2014engine

On February 21, 2013, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE13-003 to investigate allegations of electronic throttle body (ETB) failures resulting in sudden reduction of engine power in model year (MY) 2009-2013 Ford Escape, Fusion, Mariner and Milan vehicles. During this investigation, Ford identified a condition in subject vehicles equipped with 2.5L and 3.0L engines that may result in a sudden reduction of engine power.According to Ford, the ETB internal motor contacts may develop a high resistance material buildup condition on the commutator, resulting …

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 …

Rear Liftgate Window Glass BreakagePreliminary evaluation PE11016Closed
Opened Apr 27, 2011Closed Aug 18, 2011body and frame

In its response to the agency, Ford acknowledged a higher than normal level of glass breakage incidents in the model year (MY) 2010 to early-build MY 2011 subject vehicles.The incidentsoccurred when the liftgate glass was being opened, or more typically while being closed, but in both cases while the vehicle was stationery, i.e., not moving on the roadway.Additionally failures often occurred during early morning hours when ambient and/or liftgate glass temperatures may have been lower.Ford advised that it investigated the failures but failed to identify an anomaly in the glass manufacturing …

Technical service bulletins

49 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2010 Escape. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 12equipment 9transmission 9steering 5electrical system 3body and frame 3brakes 2visibility 2
13N03Service campaignMar 16, 2015body and frame

FORD FUSION, MILAN, ESCAPE, MARINER 2009-2013: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM THROTTLE BODY EXTENDED COVERAGE. *LJ

44986Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 1, 2015steering

2008-2012 FORD ESCAPE/MARINER: SERVICE INFORMATION INVOLVING THE POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE WITH DTC B2278- STEERING COLUMN REPLACEMENT IS NOT REQUIRED. *LJ

45006Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 1, 2015steering

FORD 2008-2012 ESCAPE/MARINER: BULLETIN INFORMATION REGARDING STEERING CONTROL MODULE WITH DTC B2278, NOT REQUIRED TO HAVE STEERING COLUMN REPLACED. *LJ

TSB-14-0016Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 7, 2014steering

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

TSB-10-13-2Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 1, 2010steering

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

SB-21321Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 1, 2010steering

FORD/MERCURY: CLUNK NOISE AT STEERING; STOPS DURING FIRST LOCK TO LOCK CYCLE. THE NOISE TYPICALLY OCCURS DURING TIGHT PARKING LOT MANEUVERS. THE CLUNK NOISE HEARD ON THE FIRST STEERING LOCK TO LOCK CYCLE IS A NORMAL CHARACTERISTIC OF THE SYSTEM. *PE

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2010 Ford Escape 4-DR. w/SAB———★★★★★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 Oct 28, 2026MD

**NHTSA Vehicle Safety Complaint** Vehicle: 2010 Ford Escape AWD VIN: [XXX] I am submitting this complaint because my vehicle has experienced serious safety problems involving both the steering system and the fuel system. The steering wheel has become extremely difficult to turn, making it unsafe to drive. In addition, the fuel system is leaking fuel, creating a potential fire hazard. My understanding is that this vehicle previously received recall repairs related to these systems. Despite those repairs, the same dangerous conditions have returned. The vehicle has been undrivable for approximately two weeks because I believe it is unsafe to operate. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether the recall remedy was effective and whether these failures indicate that additional action is necessary to protect owners of affected vehicles. Because these defects involve steering control and a potential vehicle fire, I believe they present an unreasonable safety risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering
Filed Sep 26, 2026WI

Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist Power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds. Steering locks up while driving. This has happened 3 times within the last 6 months. Before this, the last few years it has been difficult starting the car with the key. It would take multiple tries before starting. But now that the steering has locked up more than twice while driving is concerning. I see there were previous problems with the steering and corrected in 2014. After reading the recall description, it sounds to be the same problem. And recently i parked the vehicle, put in park, pulled the key and when opening the door beeping occurred like the key was in the ignition. Once the key was put in the ignition, it stopped. Please Help, [XXX] [XXX]/[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage
Filed Sep 11, 2026TX

The gas tank is leaking gas on the gas tank inlet plastic yellow retainer ring appears to be broken. This gas leak has put safety family members at risk. It appears to be a manufacturer defect built defective.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 16, 2026MN

1. I purchased a 2010 Ford Escape that had a preexisting rusted frame defect. That is shown by the Ford vehicle history report and related service documentation, which support that the problem existed before I took possession of the vehicle. The vehicle was determined as unsafe to drive and later broke down after the sale. Apple Ford Apple Valley documented that the vehicle was “not safe to drive due to rusted frame,” and after break down, Carlson Automotive also inspected the vehicle and confirmed serious issues. The vehicle and related records can be made available for inspection upon request. 2.My safety and the safety of others were put at risk because the structural defect caused loss of control, steering problems, and ultimately a breakdown while driving. This created a danger to me, my passengers, and other drivers on the road. 3.The problem was confirmed by a dealer ( prior to the sale to me) and an independent service center ( after it broke down ). I am not aware of any police or insurance inspection of the vehicle. The seller is not cooperating. Ford bought the vehicle through a trade in and then held it for resale, top gear obtains the vehicle which then sells it on kbids to me. 4. There were warning signs before the failure THAT WERE NOT DISCLOSED AND FORD ALLOWED THE VEHICLE TO LEAVE ITS LOT INSTEAD OF JUNKING IT. The Ford history report and service records showed the rusted frame condition before the vehicle failed, and Apple Ford Apple Valley documented that t

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 2, 2026MI

I own a 2010 Ford Escape, VIN [XXX]. Last year in 2025, my power steering went out. I found out it was from a safety recall. I took it to the Ford dealership in Sandusky, MI. They told me it wasn't a safety recall and they would not cover it. I have been searching online for a YEAR, and I finally found where that certain safety recall was only repaired by computer update, NOT by checking the actual steering column, via the previous owners. I want the steering column looked at and for free. We could have died if it had failed in a turn. The escape is sitting in my garage with NO POWERSTEERING AT ALL and no one can drive it. This is a safety risk because without power-steering I cannot turn or drive my vehicle at all. I want this repaired as soon as possible, for free. There were no messages or failures, it just stopped working. Ford is telling me that they won't fix it because it has already been repaired and it is not in their computer system. I know this is BS because if it was fixed, why is it failed now? I also learned that they did a "system update" to prevent failure of the steering column and I guess mine didn't get one. I am not a happy customer and I will NEVER buy a ford again if this is not repaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Suspension
Filed Jun 4, 2026MN

Front subframe on the right side prematurely rusts, causing the vehicle to loose steering and pull to the right.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 3, 2026NY

My car is a limited version which equipped a Microsoft SYNC system which providing backup camera and vehicle system setting and information such as hybrid status, driven mode, battery charging status, GPS navigation, etc. Just because this 'Upgrade', the clock and date setting is different with regular escape hybrid cars which comes from the satellite only. Driver could adjust the hour and minute, but the day, month, and year would be reset to a certain day of 2006 if battery changing. After that, the date could be updated by GPS signal automatically. It was working well until one year ago. Now, my car is showing Oct, 2006 and running day after day. I did some research on internet and found a lot of drivers with same issue. A engineer revealed the root cause that Ford used a ten digits week counting method based on a starting date in 2006 to display the current date which could only working within 1023 weeks (17.5 years). Without changing the hardware, software might not correct this issue. I'm not sure and went to Ford dealer shop last week, they denied this issue and refused to recall even repair this car. I hope Ford could recall the fix this obvious defective product soon.

Steering
Filed May 31, 2026MO

I went out to start my car and the power steering assist fault came on and wouldn't let me turn the wheel easily. When I looked up the problem the code came back to one of the recalls Ford has on those escape. But now my car is not in the recall but it was made with in the years and the plant the they recalled for

Air Bags
Filed Mar 31, 2026GA

AFTERMARKET SEAT COVER AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY. I can't electricly move my seats when I try and air bag warning comes in my dash board

Suspension
Filed Mar 28, 2026MI

The complaint is regarding a 2010 Ford Escape, original owner and maintained mostly at dealer shop. Vehicle only has 79k miles on it, and has been garage stored. It has rust in the rear wheel wells and a crack in the rear right subframe due to rust.

Steering
Filed Mar 24, 2026NM

Power steering assist failure on the message board. Making it hard to turn come on and off at different times. Changed rack and pion and steering wheel sensor. Started in Dec 2025 continuing to present

Steering
Filed Mar 13, 2026MI

I took my car into the dealership they had my car for over a month now they sent that I got to pay for a recall of the steering wheel or wait

Steering
Filed Mar 7, 2026CA

Electric power steering failure. Complete loss of steering. Module in steering column failure. Cost me $4000.00 for repairs

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 6, 2026FL

I recently bought this vehicle, I think about three months ago, used obviously. I will be going down the road, and for no apparent reason the vehicle will lose power steering. Not often but about once a month. Also, the majority of the time I can smell fuel from outside the vehicle. It most definitely has a fuel leak. Today, I got down and looked behind the tire at the fuel intake and it seems to be leaking at a yellow ring on the outside of the fuel tank. While researching this issue online seems to be a common issue, however, I have pulled up my VIN many times on the recall list and it has not shown up. It seems like not only an accident hazard with steering, but a fire hazard with the fuel. The fuel issue seems to make it very “jumpy” when idling at red lights, but maybe that’s a separate issue.

Steering
Filed Feb 25, 2026166,320 milesNC

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the steering wheel seized and failed to respond as designed. The vehicle was restarted several times before the steering wheel unlocked. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (STEERING); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 166,320.

Steering
Filed Jan 27, 2026SC

The steering angle sensor failed. My mechanic replaced it. I do not know if the part is still available for inspection. The safety of those in the vehicle as well as any around it were in jeopardy when the incident occurred. Thankfully no one was injured nor was there any collision for further vehicle damage. While the vehicle was running, suddenly the steering wheel whipped to the left. The vehicle was in motion when this occurred, causing the vehicle to turn further than intended, and requiring substantial strength to re-direct the vehicle under the driver's (and passenger's) guidance. As long as the vehicle was running, the power steering pulled the wheel to the most extreme left. The mechanic confirmed that the steering angle sensor was the issue and replaced it. I was able to reproduce the steering moving itself (the steering wheel, and front tire) left, when the engine was engaged. With the vehicle off, I was able to maneuver the tires left and right. But when I turned on the vehicle, the wheel would turn itself left. The mechanic assessed the vehicle, replaced the part, and reprogrammed, I presume the part, for this issue. Police officers did block traffic, in order to add safety while we pushed the vehicle out of the roadway. However they did not personally assess the vehicle, or file a traffic report that I am aware of. A friend of my daughter's did come by and feel the stiffness with steering wheel tension, also I believe they saw it turn itself left when the engine

Steering
Filed Jan 26, 2026NM

Ford 2010 escape Power assist steering fault- torque sensor needs replacement at only 92,000 miles. My steering wheel became loose and shaking aggressively while driving and at idle causing serious safety and control concerns. The steering wheel has also become very hard to turn. Ford dealer ran a diagnostic and confirmed the issue. This is the exact same issue that has been recalled on other 2010 Ford escapes.

Steering
Filed Jan 16, 2026NM

Took the car into a mechanic for shaking in the steering wheel while driving and shaking/ grinding noise coming from steering wheel while car is idle. Mechanics confirmed it is a power steering assist fault. This causes a safety concern when driving due to a possible loss of steering and harder to control.

Steering
Filed Dec 17, 2025CO

The power system assist fault light came on and steering is very difficult

Steering
Filed Nov 12, 2025OH

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the contact attempted to turn the steering wheel to the right to exit the highway, the contact was unable to turn the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stopped the vehicle and turned off the vehicle and restarted the vehicle to reset the power steering. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering). The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering assist had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact advised the dealer that there was a recall for the year, make and model. The contact was advised by the dealer that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Oct 29, 2025CT

Electric Power Steering system failure related to the torque sensor. An unexpected loss of steering while driving. I was driving on the I95 on my way to work when all of a sudden I lost the ability to steer the car. It took all the strength I had to pull over to the shoulder before the car behind me swerved in the nick of time to avoid a collision. It was very scary. I turned the engine off gathered myself and turned the engine back on and the power steering returned. I exited the highway as soon as possible and drove to the mechanic. He ran a test on the car and the code came up for the recall for the electric power steering system failure which is a recall.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 26, 2025CA

Bout the vehicle from a used car dealership in Victorville and in 22 days the truck valve body gave out in the middle of me driving almost causing a car accident on freeway. The solenoid D is stuck in off and the transmission on this model is known to do this I need help or some answers

Steering
Filed Oct 22, 2025125,365 milesNY

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the steering wheel violently drifted to the left, and the contact lost control of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. Due to the failure, the contact used excessive force to steer the vehicle. Prior to the failure, the independent mechanic informed the contact that the same failure had occurred after the tie rod ends were replaced. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who then had the vehicle towed to the dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a defective steering column. The vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering); however, the recall was not related to the steering column failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 125,365

Engine
Filed Oct 19, 2025MD

There is oil leak that cannot be found. I have taken that truck to 3 different mechanics, conducted 3 different diagnostics using the dye and everything and the source of this leak cannot be found and is causing me problems.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 8, 2025CA

Concerns regarding my 2010 Ford Escape. Within thirty (30) days of purchase, the transmission completely failed, rendering the vehicle inoperable. Additionally, upon further inspection, it was discovered that the entire underbody of the vehicle is severely rusted and corroded. This corrosion appears extensive enough to compromise the structural integrity of the frame and essential safety components. While operating the vehicle prior to transmission failure, I also experienced significant shaking and vibration during both driving and braking. These issues raise major safety concerns, as they could indicate underlying brake, suspension, or frame instability. Given the combination of a failed transmission, extensive underbody rust, and unsafe driving behavior, I believe this vehicle may present a serious risk to myself and others on the road. These types of defects and corrosion levels are unusual for a vehicle of this make and model and could point to a broader safety or manufacturing issue. I am requesting that Ford review this matter urgently and provide direction on possible inspection, repair, or compensation options. I am more than willing to provide documentation, photos, or mechanic reports to assist in your evaluation. Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. I look forward to your prompt response regarding next steps.

Steering
Filed Sep 10, 2025170,000 milesWV

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering assist and was driven with manual steering. The message "Power Steering Assist Fault" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering) and contacted the dealer, and was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000

Electrical System
Filed Aug 25, 2025GA

The power steering assist fault warning light came up and my steering wheel became hard to steer.

Power Train
Filed Jul 23, 2025CA

Transmission axle was leaking 2020 and it was repaired two times that I paid for. It started leaking again a few months ago we took it in and discovered that it's a bearing or bushing which was a known issue for Ford escape and their suggesting rebuild or replace. That the leaking that we had the seal replaced couldn't stop the internal damage that it would still leak because the transmission is faulty and has a known issue with either bearings or bushings.

Steering
Filed Jul 11, 2025PA

My daughter was driving and her power steering went out. She lost control of her car because she couldn't steering it. She almost wrecked the car, but was able to get it off the road. Her safety, and that of others around him was at risk as she almost hit several other cars as she struggled to get her car off the road. Previous to this, we owned a 2008 Ford Escape, which the same thing happened while she was driving on the highway. Again, she was lucky to barely avoid getting hit as she was stopped in the middle of the highway. We took the 2008 to a Ford dealer but were told the car didn't qualify for the recall so we paid for the repair. Now we have the 2010, and are being told that the recall repair was done in 2015, so now that this dangerous issue is reoccurring, it doesn't qualify for the safety recall because it was already done, yet here we are, with her in traffic and no steering yet again...and us trying to get this car fixed again. At this point, an independent service center is confirming the issue with the steering column. It hasn't been inspected by police, but has been by the service center. There were no other warnings lights or symptoms prior to this occurrence.

Steering
Filed Jul 4, 2025GA

The power steering is not working

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 1, 2025NC

My vehicle is not able to pass the inspection and I have had a brand new gas tank put in and the engine lights are always on. I can’t get a new tag for the car and I have been pulled over by police 5 times now and received a citation due to this issue. Please if possible could you help me with this situation. Thank you so much for your time and understanding.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 7, 2025TX

Had the car repaired because it stalls at stop signs or waiting for the traffic lights to change has a new turn up and carburetor and had a second opinion and they couldn’t find why but the car still stalled

Power Train
Filed May 3, 2025IN

The transmission slips and looses power when in trafic.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 8, 2025GA

Brakes go all the way to the floor, barely could stop. No accident happened. It's very scary to even drive it anymore. I have taken it to 3 shops, 2 of the 3 say it's the ABS module. I have read a lot of reviews on this car having this issue. Probably nothing to be done since it's not even made anymore. Parts are getting obsolete.

SteeringCrash
Filed Apr 7, 2025WY

Power steering quits working without notice and ford says it’s not a recall in this vehicle but it says everywhere that it’s a known recall issue

Steering
Filed Apr 7, 2025180,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving on a main road at 30 MPH, the power steering assist became disabled, and the steering wheel became stiff and difficult to turn. The power steering assist fault warning light was illuminated. The contact continued to drive the vehicle to the residence. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 180,000.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 21, 2025MI

Electrical Issues overall and Hybrid battery emits dangerous electrical current.

Suspension
Filed Feb 25, 2025WV

Putting the car on a lift noticed the rust on frame the inspecting further notice the rear axle rusted away from body

Steering
Filed Feb 24, 2025MI

Power Steering EPAS Torque Sensor Failure.

Steering
Filed Feb 13, 2025116,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized with the power steering failure message displayed. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 116,000.

Traction Control System
Filed Feb 5, 2025177,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the traction control and wrench warning lights had displayed, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. After turning off and restarting the vehicle, the failure was self-corrected; however, the failure reoccurred. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 177,000.

Steering
Filed Jan 31, 2025TX

The vehicle was dropped off on 12/26/24 at Planet Ford to have 2 recalls fixed. One being the electric power steering and the other being the fuel delivery module flange. A loaner vehicle was asked for, but not provided. The dealer said to contact Ford, and Ford said it was up to the dealer to provide that or rental assistance. The service personnel said after a few weeks and talking to Ford engineers, that the battery the vehicle had in it was not the right amperage/voltage. They said it would need to be replaced in order to continue to fix the recall. I had just put a new battery in it about 4 months prior and it was of the correct spec. I call every few days and have not been given and estimated time to have it fixed. Now, it's over a month and I still have no resolution and no vehicle. They are now saying that the computer is not good and also needs to be replaced. The car is not drivable and the recalls are not fixed. This is my only vehicle, please help with this. I have been patient and have exhausted every avenue available to me.

Steering
Filed Jan 30, 2025225,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, there was an abnormal bell sound detected. The power steering assist fault message was displayed. The power steering became inoperable. The contact stopped and looked underneath the hood but was unable to find a power steering fluid reservoir. The contact checked the Owner's Manual and determined that there was no power steering fluid reservoir. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (STEERING). The local dealer was contacted, who informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall for the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall, opened a case, and referred the contact to the local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 225,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 23, 2025IN

I filled up the tank and the inside smells like fuel, and it leaks underneath it. I checked online and they had a recall for the same year but the 3.0 engine, mine is the 2.5L. I took it to the mechanich and it has the exact same issue as those that have been recalled. The fueld delivery system flange is cracked and leaking fuel. I called ford and my car is not under that recall but it has the exact same issue. I need to pay it myself now and I am afrain for my safety as a lot of gas is leaking.

Steering
Filed Jan 17, 2025GA

When driving i hear clicking sounds in the steering column and then the power steering goes out and it becomes very difficult to steer.

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Jan 7, 2025100,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an alignment, but the mechanic was unable to perform the alignment due to a hole in the subframe. The contact was informed that the subframe had corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Steering › Column
Filed Nov 13, 2024204,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2014 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving their vehicle at various speeds they noticed that an abnormal clicking sound can be heard from the steering column. The contact stated that when this sound occurs the vehicle's steering wheel will seize and the contact is forced to pull over onto the side of the road, to restart their vehicle, in order for the power steering to function properly again. The battery and the check engine light also remain illuminated when this occurs. the battery. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 204,000. The contact also stated that the vehicle is experiencing symptoms from an unknown recall that were remedied by the original owner.

Steering
Filed Nov 12, 2024150,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at approximately 15 MPH and making a right turn, the power steering malfunctioned, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. Additionally, on several occasions, the vehicle failed to immediately start. The contact replaced the ignition switch, battery, starter, and alternator; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 150,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 24, 2024NC

While driving to work to my 911 work center, my car started beeping soon as I turned into the parking lot. My steering wheel was INCREDIBLY tight so thankfully I was already in the parking lot and was able to get to a parking spot. I looked down and my dash said "Power Steering Assist Fault" I looked everything up and there is a recall for this from 2008-2011 models I believe but my VIN isn't under that coverage

Steering
Filed Oct 22, 2024ND

Driving approx. 70 miles/hr. And I lost power steering!!

Complaints 1-50 of 2,071, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20263200Routine
202526900Routine
202477801Fatalities reported
20231021130Routine
20222361940Above average
20213521990Above average
20201,6192340Above average
2019599330Above average
20181,826460Above average
20172,7044150Above average
20161,1804100Above average
20151,1369200High concern
20142,089161044Fatalities reported
20132,75318910Do not drive
2012604230Above average
20111,319370Above average
2010 — this page2,071530Above average
20091,693320Above average
20081,974560High concern
2007254422Fatalities reported
2006464592Fatalities reported
20051,3945202Fatalities reported
20044998141Fatalities reported
20035589270High concern
20021,027101042Fatalities reported
200199615583Fatalities reported
20005000Routine

Compare every Escape year →

2010 Ford Escape: questions buyers ask

Is the 2010 Ford Escape a good car?

It is not among the Escape years to avoid. Owners filed 2,071 complaints, against about 1,082 for a typical Escape year. The most common complaint is about the steering (18%).

What is the most common problem with the 2010 Ford Escape?

The steering: 381 of the 2,071 complaints (18%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (34%), sets off warning lights on the dash (25%) and loses power (17%). The typical report comes at 115,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2010 Ford Escape have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 26, 2016. 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 2010 Ford Escape problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 59,908 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 115,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2010 Ford Escape?

Yes, 4 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 2010 Ford Escape?

The manufacturer filed 49 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (12), the transmission (9) and the steering (5). They include a service campaign, 13N03, filed Mar 16, 2015. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

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: Oct 26, 2016. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.