NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2019 Ford Escape
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV that has occupied one of the most competitive segments in the American market for over two decades. Aimed squarely at small-family buyers and urban commuters who want a practical, car-like driving experience with elevated ride height, the 2019-2025 generation brings a modern platform and a range of powertrain options including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. It competes directly against the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Chevrolet Equinox.
The 2019 Ford Escape earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Ford Escape as a comfortable, well-rounded compact SUV that rides and handles more like a car than many of its rivals. They tend to praise its cabin refinement and the availability of electrified powertrains, while frequently noting that the interior technology and cargo space fall short of segment leaders. Overall sentiment is positive but measured, positioning the Escape as a solid rather than standout choice in its class.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13256
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER26V011000
Risk: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed March 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent
Reported 2026-01-15
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)22V413000
Risk: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
Reported 2022-06-10
TIRES21V155000
Risk: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall, resulting in sudden air loss or belt edge separation which could lead to tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S10.
Reported 2021-03-10
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
554 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.