2011 Ford Escape problems and complaints
Owners have filed 1316 complaints with NHTSA about the 2011 Ford Escape. The most-reported areas: Steering (409), Power Train (268), Fuel/Propulsion System (253).
Key takeaways
- 1316 owner complaints on file with NHTSA.
- 38 involve a crash, 7 a fire, 38 reported injuries.
- Complaints are unverified owner reports; recalls are confirmed defects.
| Component | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Steering | 409 | 31% |
| Power Train | 268 | 20% |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 253 | 19% |
| Engine | 248 | 19% |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 245 | 19% |
| Electrical System | 116 | 9% |
| Unknown Or Other | 56 | 4% |
| Structure | 43 | 3% |
| Fuel System | 33 | 3% |
| Gasoline | 33 | 3% |
| Suspension | 32 | 2% |
| Service Brakes | 26 | 2% |
One complaint can name several components, so shares add up to more than 100%.
| Version | Overall | Front | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 Ford Escape SUV 4x4 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| 2011 Ford Escape SUV 4x2 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Latest complaints, as filed
Owner-written and unverified by NHTSA.
Steering,suspension - filed 2026-08-19
I have a 2011 Ford Escape AWD 3.0 engine. I took it for NY state inspection and it fails due the right side front subframe is rusted and unsafe. Ford has a recall on models up to 2004 but this vehicle has the same issue of the A/C draining on it causing the rust. I have been an auto tech for over 48 years, retired now,...
Steering - filed 2026-08-17
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic, who diagnosed that the steering torque sensor had failed and needed t...
Structure - filed 2026-08-13
I went for an oil change and my mechanic found that the subframe/cross member assembly was almost rusted through. Very dangerous. Needs to be replaced. Found out this is very common with the Ford Escape model of these years. Will cost thousands to repair.
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More for the 2011 Ford Escape
Complaints are reports filed by owners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA publishes them without verifying them, and counts rise with how many cars were sold, so compare years of the same model rather than different models. Crash ratings are NHTSA's own 5-Star Safety Ratings results.