2021 Ford Escape Transmission & Powertrain Problems
NHTSA lists 43 Transmission & Powertrain complaints for the 2021 Ford Escape, 12% of its 346 total complaints, with a median failure mileage of 79,845 miles. One related recall (24V330000) covers a Hybrid Powertrain Control Module software issue that can cause unwanted shifts into neutral.
- Transmission & Powertrain complaints
- 43
- 12% of 346
- Crashes reported
- 1
- Fires reported
- 0
- Injuries reported
- 1
- Median mileage
- 79,845 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical transmission symptoms owners report
- Owners report unexpected acceleration or loss of braking during low-speed maneuvers such as reversing out of a driveway.
- Several owners describe the transmission shuddering or jerking from a stop, later diagnosed as internal transmission or torque converter failure.
- Some report a grinding or dragging noise during slow turns, traced to a failed power transfer unit or rear differential needing replacement.
- Others describe sudden loss of motive power accompanied by smoke and illuminated check engine and powertrain warning lights, requiring a tow.
- A few owners report the powertrain warning light illuminating repeatedly with no dealer-identified cause, sometimes starting as early as 4,000 miles.
- Some describe hesitation or delayed response when accelerating at highway speed, ultimately diagnosed as needing a full transmission replacement.
When 2021 Ford Escape transmission complaints were filed
First complaint Jul 20, 2021, latest Sep 15, 2026.
Transmission & Powertrain recalls for the 2021 Ford Escape
- NHTSA 24V330000May 10, 2024Transmission & Powertrain9,312 vehicles
Power train:automatic transmission:control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.
Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S33.
Transmission & Powertrain complaints by Escape model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How many transmission complaints does the 2021 Ford Escape have?
- NHTSA lists 43 Transmission & Powertrain complaints for the 2021 Ford Escape, which is 12% of its 346 total complaints for the model year.
- Is there a transmission recall for the 2021 Ford Escape?
- Yes. Recall 24V330000, reported May 10, 2024, covers a Hybrid Powertrain Control Module software issue that can cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly. Ford dealers update the HPCM software free of charge.
- At what mileage do 2021 Ford Escape transmission problems typically show up?
- NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 79,845 miles at the time of failure for Transmission & Powertrain complaints on this model year.
- Did the 2021 Ford Escape transmission issues cause any crashes or injuries?
- NHTSA records show 1 crash and 1 injury and 0 fires linked to Transmission & Powertrain complaints for the 2021 Ford Escape.
- How does 2021 compare to other Ford Escape years for transmission complaints?
- The 2021 Escape's 43 Transmission & Powertrain complaints (12% share) are lower in count and share than several earlier years, such as 2016 with 320 complaints at a 28% share.