Back in late 2022, the refreshed 2023 Ford Escape Hybrid was added to Consumer Reports‘ list of recommended vehicles, thanks to its above average predicted reliability scores determined by data collected from members via online surveys. However, that luster wore off relatively quickly, as the Ford Escape Hybrid wound up on Consumer Reports‘ most recent list of the least reliable vehicles on sale – the fifth worst, in fact, with a score of 21 out of 100 possible points. Now, CR has dropped the Ford Escape Hybrid from its list of recommended vehicles, too.
As the consumer organization just reported, the Ford Escape Hybrid is one of eight new models to lose its coveted recommended status, joining the Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW iX, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Kia EV6, Lincoln Corsair, Mazda CX-90, and CX-90 PHEV, as each received below average reliability scores this time around. CR collects its reliability data via the aforementioned questionnaires, which ask members to identify any problems they’ve experienced within the last 12 months across 20 different categories ranging from things like paint and trim to mechanicals.
From there, CR averages each vehicle’s reliability score across three model years – so long as it didn’t experience any significant changes during that timeframe. Ford Escape Hybrid owners reported having issues with the electrified crossover’s hybrid battery (which required a replacement in some cases), electrical accessories and components, noises, leaks, and in-vehicle electronics. CR also added that the Escape’s infotainment screen suffers from severe lag, which can be quite frustrating given the fact that HVAC and audio controls are housed within it, too.
“We are working to delivery the best customer experiences and constantly improve the quality of our products and services,” a Ford spokesperson said in response to this news. “Consumers experiencing a 12-volt battery drain in the 2023 model Escape Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid can contact a dealer to have it serviced as part of TSB 24-2288, or contact Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7322.”
Comments
Seems like Toyota is the only manufacturer that builds reliable hybrids. This shouldn’t be difficult to figure out. If you’re an electrician!!!
I had the Privilege of Driving one of these Pieces Of JUNK! What a Shame, If FORD would start making their JOB’S….. JOB (1). Or put the Quality in, before the NAME GOES ON, it would Otherwise be a Decent Vehicle. JIM FARLEY…….. You’re FIRED!!!! Now…. Get Outta Here!!!!
I have a 2023 platinum, hybrid escape, I have to have the 12 volt battery changed again. I’ve owned the car for 18 months and this will be my 4th battery. Extremely frustrated with Ford!!!
Does the full hybrid escape even have a 12 volt battery? A woman we know has a 2024 full hybrid escape and she loves it and has taken many trips. Her main complaint is having to use the infotainment screen to select simple changes.
My 2023 ESCAPE Hybrid has only had one slight problem and it was battery related. Ford dealer sent person to pick up and after fixing problem and oil change vehicle was returned.