# Ford Escape 2020–2024 Pre-Purchase Checklist | CarCaseFile

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> Printable pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2020–2024 Ford Escape: the generation-specific checks that separate a good one from someone else's problem.

Case file · FORD-ESCAPE-2020-2024 · Field document

# Ford Escape 2020–2024 · Pre-purchase checklist

Bring this to the inspection. Every check below is specific to this generation's documented failure modes, not generic used-car advice.

[← Full case file](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/ford-escape-2020-2024/)

Check 01

Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and require proof every recall is closed. This generation has some of the highest recall counts in the class (the 2021 alone has ~20).

Check 02

On 1.5L cars: confirm the cracked-fuel-injector recall (22S73/24S16/25S76) was performed, then check for any fuel smell under the hood after a warm test drive.

Check 03

On 1.5L cars: watch the temp gauge and check for coolant loss or white exhaust smoke. Cylinder-head coolant problems (code P1285) are documented on this engine.

Check 04

On hybrids/PHEVs: verify the 2.5L engine-failure recall (23S27) inspection was done, and listen for knocking or unusual engine noise on the drive.

Check 05

On PHEVs: confirm the high-voltage battery recalls are complete and ask whether the car has been living under a reduced-charge restriction.

Check 06

On 1.5L/2.0L cars: feel for harsh 2–4 gear shifts, shudder under light acceleration around 20–35 mph, or clunks from the 8-speed, worst on 2020s.

Check 07

Shift into reverse and confirm the backup camera shows a live image immediately and drops it when you shift out. Blank/frozen camera displays were recalled.

Check 08

Test both front windows fully up and down several times; front window motor failures are a common complaint on early cars.

Walk-away signals

2020 (first model year, most complaints and recalls) · 2020–2022 1.5L until the fuel-injector recall is verified complete by VIN · PHEV (any year) unless every high-voltage battery recall shows closed

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