Used 2013–2019 Ford Escape in League City, TX
Small outside, useful inside, and cheap to run. The engine under the hood is what makes a used Escape a smart buy or a headache.
RECENTLY SOLD
Escapes we've sold
SOLD2014 Ford Escape SE
87,571 miles
SOLD2015 Ford Escape S
111,000 miles
Every vehicle we sell has a clean title and has passed three inspections: our mechanics before purchase, a re-inspection on the lot, and an independent inspection before sale.
Know your Escape engine before you buy
The third-generation Escape (2013–2019) is the one we see most. It came with three engines, and they behave differently enough that it's worth knowing which one you're looking at. The engine size is on the window sticker, the VIN decode and the engine cover.
2.5L four-cylinder (S trim, 2013–2016; S and some SE 2017–2019)
This engine has no turbo. It's the simplest of the three and usually the cheapest to own. It's slower merging onto I-45, but there are fewer parts that can fail. For a first-time buyer or a budget commuter, a well-kept 2.5L S is often the smartest Escape.
1.6L EcoBoost (2013–2016)
Ford's safety recall 17S09 (NHTSA 17V-209) covers 2014 Escapes with the 1.6L. If the engine runs low on coolant, the cylinder head can overheat and crack, and the resulting oil leak can cause an engine-compartment fire. The remedy adds a coolant-level sensor at no charge. 2013 1.6L Escapes had their own overheating and fire recalls, 12S41 (NHTSA 12V-551) and 13S12 (NHTSA 13V-584), so run any 1.6L through NHTSA's VIN lookup and get proof the recall work was done. Also check the coolant: a reservoir that keeps going low with no visible leak is a red flag on this engine.
1.5L EcoBoost (2017–2019) and 2.0L EcoBoost (2013–2019)
The 1.5L replaced the 1.6L, and our in-stock 2018 SEL has the 1.5L. Ford's TSB 19-2139 describes coolant leaking into the cylinders on some 2017–2019 Escapes with the 1.5L, which shows up as low coolant, white exhaust smoke or a rough-running engine. Ford's Customer Satisfaction Program 19B37 reprogrammed the engine computer to reduce the risk. Its companion program 21N12 offered a one-time engine short-block repair. Those programs ended November 30, 2022, but you can still ask whether 19B37 was done (a Ford dealer can check by VIN). The 2.0L is the strongest engine. Per Ford's 2017 towing guide, it's rated for 3,500 lb only with the factory Class II Trailer Tow Package, and 2,000 lb without it. With any EcoBoost, ask for the coolant and oil history.
The 6-speed automatic
Third-generation Escapes use a 6-speed automatic. Harsh 1–2 shifts or a flare between gears in stop-and-go traffic on FM 518 is worth a closer look.
Gulf Coast checks on a test drive
- On 4WD models, ask whether the power transfer unit has ever been serviced. A burnt-oil smell after a drive is worth having checked.
- AC and the blower at every speed. Blend-door actuators can click behind the dash.
- Rear liftgate latch and the hands-free kick sensor on SE and SEL. Humidity can make the electronics act up.
- Door-handle and rocker areas. Look underneath for rust if the car spent time near the water.
Maintenance at common mileages
Use the schedule in that Escape's owner's manual (Ford owner manuals). Ford's schedule has a "special operating conditions" column with shorter intervals, and Houston heat, towing and long idling fit it.
- Oil: change it when the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor calls for it, or sooner under special conditions.
- Filters, spark plugs, coolant and transmission fluid: at the intervals the manual lists.
- Higher mileage: expect motor mounts and suspension bushings to wear. A clunk over the railroad tracks on Main St. is a typical clue.
Hurricane-season ownership
The Escape sits lower than a mid-size SUV, so it's worth knowing your route home during heavy rain. Many League City streets near Clear Creek flood quickly, and no small SUV should drive through standing water. Keep the cabin air filter fresh, because a damp, clogged filter is the usual source of that musty AC smell in older Escapes. If you park outside, check the windshield cowl drains under the wiper arms every few months. Leaves and pine straw clog them, water backs up into the cabin blower, and the result is a wet passenger floor. That's cheap to prevent and annoying to fix.
Trims
S is basic. SE is the volume trim we sell most, with the turbo engines, better infotainment and often a power liftgate. SEL adds leather and convenience features. Titanium is the top trim. For value, an SE or SEL with documented service is the target.
Who it's for
The Escape is for city drivers and first-time buyers who want SUV height and cargo space without paying more for gas. It's also good for small families who don't need a third row.
Keep reading
FAQ
Questions buyers ask
Which Ford Escape engine should I look for?
For simplicity, the non-turbo 2.5L. It isn't part of the 1.6L recall or the 1.5L coolant-intrusion bulletin. With any EcoBoost, check the VIN for completed recalls and programs.
Did the 1.6L EcoBoost Escape have recalls?
Yes. Recall 17S09 (NHTSA 17V-209) covers 2014 1.6L Escapes for cylinder-head overheating and fire risk, and 2013 models were covered by 12V-551 and 13V-584. Look up the VIN on NHTSA and confirm the repairs were done.
Can a used Escape tow?
Some can. Per Ford's 2017 towing guide, a 2.0L EcoBoost with the factory Class II Trailer Tow Package is rated for 3,500 lb, or 2,000 lb without it. Check the tow package and the owner's manual for that specific vehicle.
Can I finance an Escape with less-than-perfect credit?
Often, yes. We work with outside lenders, and most approvals start around a 575 credit score.