Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2011 Ford Escape Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

78/ 100

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MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A practical choice for the budget-conscious, but only if you're prepared to address potential transmission and rust concerns head-on.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2011 Ford Escape

  • Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2010 Ford Escape earns a 85.
  • The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (6f35) (major severity).
  • Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump.

2011 Ford Escape: Buy or Avoid?

The 2011 Ford Escape can be a practical and affordable compact SUV, but it comes with a few significant reliability caveats, particularly concerning its automatic transmission. While the engines are generally robust, potential buyers must prioritize meticulous maintenance records and a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate the risks associated with common failures. This vehicle requires proactive ownership to avoid substantial repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Generally robust powertrains (especially 2.5L engine)
  • Solid, predictable handling and available AWD
  • Practical, spacious interior for its class

2011 Ford Escape — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2011 Ford Escape. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Automatic Transmission (6F35)major
2
Rust & Corrosionmoderate
3
Electrical & Body Accessoriesminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2011 Ford Escape

3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.

SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING

The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.

What breaks on the 2011 Ford Escape?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Ford Escape — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Escape. Click any year for its full report.

Competing 2011s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 2011 Ford Escape

Parts and accessories matched to your 2011 Ford Escape

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Frequently Asked Questions

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