The 2017 Escape only lasts about 200,000 miles with common engine failures. At $18,919 – 23,715, it’s not worth the money for the problems.
2017 Ford Escape: Key Points
- Reliability ratings are poor with engine and brake problems. Avoid models from 2016–2018, and go with a 2019 or newer model.
- Two 4-cylinder engine options: one is efficient and the turbo engine has more power.
- Fuel economy is good at up to 26 MPG combined.
- Safety scores are excellent, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- We don’t recommend the 2017 Escape because of expensive mechanical problems and an uncomfortable interior.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critics Reviews
- Consumer Reports says the Escape is quiet and comfortable, but has terrible owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Escape a 3.5/5 finding a quick turbocharged engine, but the interior is very dated.
- Kelley Blue Book rates the Escape 4.1/5, saying it’s roomy, but doesn’t offer as much room as rivals.
What Problems Does the 2017 Ford Escape Have?
Problems include engine coolant issues, squeaky brakes, and excessive paint chips. There are fewer complaints and engine problems in 2019, but prices are nearly $5,000 higher.
Engine coolant leaking into cylinders is a serious issue on some cars at around 63,000 miles. Leaks are usually caused by gasket failures. In some cases an entire engine replacement is necessary, costing $7,000.
Squeaky brakes are another common issue happening in the first 5,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by worn out pads or rotors. Replacing the parts costs about $350.
Excessive paint chipping is another complaint at around 50,000 miles. When paint doesn’t cure properly, it chips easier. Repainting affected areas costs about $1,000 per panel.
There’s only one recall, for the power window motor. The motor can injure people when the window closes with too much force.
How Long Will the 2017 Ford Escape Last?
A properly maintained Escape will only last about 200,000 miles, at least 100,000 miles less than rivals including the RAV4 or CR-V. Regular annual maintenance costs are expensive at $532 per year, according to Repair Pal.
As an Escape reaches 100,000 miles owners should prepare to replace oil pressure sensors for $100, control arms costing $600, and engine mounts which cost $250.
I have only had it four months and I have not had any problems so far. It still runs like it is brand new.
I find my ford escape to be a reliable vehicle and have not experienced any problems with my car thus far.
At this time we've not experienced any issues. It has been reliable and I do a lot of travel. I have not had any complaints since owning this car.
None that I have noticed. It does make sounds when the door is opened and when the car is turned off, but other than that mine is fine.
Yes, the ford escape titanium is reliable. I have not had any issues with it other than the rear parking sensor malfunctioning at times due to a loose wire. It was an easy fix ultimately.
I seem to be having issues with the automatic shutdown and restart at stop lights. Sometimes it will not start again.
The 2017 ford escape is a very reliable vehicle! I have not had any problems whatsoever with this vehicle.
Very reliable. I have not personally encountered any issues with this car. I do commute over 200 miles daily for work and the car has performed very well.
How Much is the 2017 Ford Escape Worth?
Blue book prices range from $18,919 – 23,715 making the Escape more affordable than a CX-5 or Crosstrek. When new, the price range was $23,750 to $31,000. Depreciation is average, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
S is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Interior
- Cruise Control
- LED Tail Lights
SE adds some good features including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Premium Cloth Seating
- Entry Keypad
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
Titanium is the luxury model and has:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Keyless Entry & Ignition
- Power Liftgate
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very good in the Escape, and new technology was introduced for the 2017 model with a complete redesign in 2020.
- Base technology includes a 4.2-inch infotainment screen, SYNC, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a 6-speaker stereo system.
- Optional upgrades are expensive and include an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, SYNC 3, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as 9 or 10 speaker stereo systems.
- Standard safety features: a rearview camera, air bags, and anti-lock brakes.
- Optional Safety features: blind spot information systems, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is similar to other SUVs in the base-level Escape models. The upgraded EcoBoost engine is quick, taking only 7.3 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
- The base engine is a weak 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 179 horsepower.
- Optional on the SE and Titanium is a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which has 245 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Escape?
The 2017 Escape is a compact SUV similar in size to the Rogue and Equinox. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin with decent legroom for adults, but is not class leading.
Cargo space is generous with 34 cubic feet of room, with the seats up, expanding to 68 when folded flat. There’s enough room for a family of 4 and their luggage.
How Does the 2017 Ford Escape Compare to Other SUVs?
The highest-rated compact SUV of 2017 is the more expensive Subaru Crosstrek. Where the Crosstrek comes out ahead is with a better driving experience, but the Escape has more passenger room. Overall, the Crosstrek will last longer and is a better choice.
Another rival is the Honda CR-V, which is also more expensive. The CR-V has a more spacious interior, but there’s a more powerful engine in the Escape. Between the two, the CR-V is a better choice with fewer serious issues.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ford Escape a Good SUV?
No, the Escape is a bad SUV. We have received many negative owner reviews mentioning a lot of paint defects, engine failures, and problems with the infotainment system.
Overall, 2017 is a bad year for the Escape and we would recommend going with a 2019 model or newer. There are fewer engine problems for 2019, but prices are nearly $5,000 more.
Yes. It's an affordable SUV with many modern features. It is spacious, comfortable and a smooth ride.
Yes. It is dependable and comfortable. I have had many ford escapes, and continuously remain loyal to the brand because of its great features and affordable price.
Yes. It gets good gas mileage and is comfortable on long trips. It is very roomy and has the capacity to haul quite a large amount of boxes. In town driving is easy; stop and go traffic is no problem. It is a quiet ride as well.
Yes. It drives very well. Comfortable seating that are adjustable. Mine has the review camera that I love. Maneuvers well and accelerates quickly. Plenty of room for five in comfort. I enjoy my car.
Yes. I love my ford escape. This is the 3rd one I have had. It is very reliable and the titanium trim is more luxurious than the others.
Yes. I enjoy driving this car and it is easy and cheap to maintain. Gas mileage could be better. Power is ok. Look is a bit boxy but that is ok.
Yes, this vehicle is wonderful! I live in upstate New York and this vehicle handles the winter weather very well!
Yes, smooth ride, comfortable. Gas mileage fair. I commute long distance for work and feel safe and secure in this car.