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Service bulletins for the 2016 Ford Escape

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

176 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

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Only bulletins with component: Electrical system are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 477112019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and a 6, 8 or 10 inch screen may show a pop-up message every key cycle that states 'SYNC can check for updates when connected to a WiFi network'. To remove the inconvenience of the pop-up the customer can either connect to a trusted WiFi network to complete the setup process or turn off WiFi in the WiFi settings located under the Settings menu. Adjusting the setting for the customer is not a warrantable defect.
SSM 477032019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX,Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles may exhibit a concern of not able to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part Body Control Module(BCM). Inspect the BCM for the presence of fuse F88. If the fuse is missing, install the correct size replacement fuse as outlined in the Wiring Manual and then re-evaluate the concern.
SSM 475382018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit the Android Auto Preference menu selection is not present after an update to version 3.0 software. In prior versions of SYNC 3 software this menu was present, however in version 3.0 software the Android Auto Preference menu will only show up once an Android Phone has been initially connected to SYNC. This an operating characteristic of the Android Auto application after the SYNC 3.0 update and no repairs should be attempted.
SSM 475082018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2014-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit a concern of not able to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part BCM. Inspect the BCM for the presence of fuse F88. If the fuse is missing, install the correct size replacement fuse as outlined in the Wiring Manual and then re-evaluate the concern.
SSM 474442018-09-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, Slow System Response, etc. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. After Installation, complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 474302018-09-10. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK; TRAILER HITCHES; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. If a trailer hitch receiver is installed on a 2013-2018 Escape or 2015-2019 MKC vehicle equipped with a hands-free liftgate, the hands-free liftgate function will become inoperative. Hands-free liftgate function can be restored by replacing the existing hands-free liftgate actuation upper sensor (14F680), lower sensor (14F680), stone deflector (17779), hands-free liftgate actuation module (14B291), plastic fasteners (N807951S) and screws (W506964) that are required for the factory installed trailer hitch receiver with hands-free liftgate option. Replacement of these parts to restore hands-free liftgate function is not warrantable. Regardless of trailer hitch configuration, the hands-free liftgate system cannot be added to a vehicle that was originally built without the hands-free liftgate option.
SSM 473972018-09-10. Service bulletin. ENGINE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Escape/Focus/Transit Connect vehicles equipped with a remote start system may exhibit an immediate engine shut off with or without diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P1594 stored in the BCM after using the remote start function to start the engine. If using FordPass, the app will indicate that the vehicle started successfully, but the engine may not have started or may start and then immediately shut off. Reprogram the BCM using the appropriate Ford scan tool or equivalent release 110.02 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 14A068 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 473802018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. After Installation Complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 473792018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Various 2016-2018 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 473572018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2016 Escape vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit a radio that is inoperative and/or no audio after cranking. If SYNC software is not 3.0 or higher on the PTS website or on the vehicle display screen > SYNC Settings, then perform standard programming procedure. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. Reprogram the audio control module (ACM) using the appropriate Ford scan tool or equivalent release 109.05 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 18C869 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 470412018-06-11. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 472342018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2016 Escape and 2016 Focus, Transit and Transit Connect vehicles equipped with a front control display interface module (FCDIM) may exhibit the inability to store AM/FM presets, select AM/FM presets and/or erratic preset button operation. Reprogram the front control display interface module (FCDIM) using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software (FJDS) release 109.02 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. Calibration files may also be obtained at www.motorcraftservice.com. For claiming, use causal part 18C869 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards(SLTS) manual.
SSM 472282018-05-21. Service bulletin. SEATS; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2017 Escape vehicles built on or before 5-Apr-2017 with factory trailer tow may exhibit a concern with a trailer lamp out warning and/or BLIS not available warning without a trailer connected. Access connectors C439 (4 pin) and C432 (12 pin) in the trailer tow harness. Inspect for corrosion and/or water contamination. Clean as required and add electrical grease (XG-12). Install and fully seat cover on C439 to prevent future water entry. Reprogram the trailer module (TR) using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software (FJDS) release 105.04 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 15K868 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the SLTS Manual, use causal part 19H332 for reprogram.
SSM 472112018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 471672018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 469492018-01-29. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 469482018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some owners of 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience inoperative mobile device navigation applications. Mobile device navigation via AppLink requires SYNC 3 version 2.3 or higher for Apple iOS users. Mobile device navigation via AppLink is not currently available for Android users. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. SYNC 3 software upgrade to support these apps is not a warrantable repair per the Warranty And Policy Manual, Section 3, Warranty Coverages SYNC.
SSM 469472018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; BACK OVER PREVENTION; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; LANE DEPARTURE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may intermittently display an overhead image of a vehicle in the center of the SYNC touchscreen with no obstacle detection grids or warning chimes. SYNC may appear unresponsive when the overhead vehicle image is displayed. The vehicle image may intermittently display after shifting out of reverse or turning the vehicle off when in reverse. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 469002018-01-29. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some vehicles may exhibit a no start condition with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and a DTC P161A after PCM replacement. This may be due to the parameter reset procedure not being properly completed. To clear this DTC, use the Ford Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) service tool or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software, select - Toolbox - Body - Security - PATS Functions - Parameter Reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the procedure. This procedure will transfer the existing Key ID information between the modules without the need of having 2 programmed PATS keys present. There is no need to program keys when the PCM is going to be replaced. Additional information can be found in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-01. Missing or lost keys are not warrantable.
SSM 468912017-12-14. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2016 Escape and Focus vehicles equipped with a front control display interface module (FCDIM) may exhibit the inability to store AM/FM presets and/or preset buttons work erratically. Engineering is currently investigating this concern. Until a new service procedure and/or parts are available use the pre-set buttons in the following manner. To store/program a new station for a pre-set location, press and hold desired button for 3 seconds. To select a previously programmed pre-set location, perform a quick press and release of the button. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 415-00 for normal diagnostics. Continue to monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 468482017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some owners of 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience inoperative mobile device navigation applications. Mobile device navigation via AppLink requires SYNC 3 version 2.3 or higher for Apple iOS users. Mobile device navigation via AppLink is not currently available for Android users. SYNC 3 software upgrades to support these apps are not currently available, do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates. SYNC 3 software upgrade to support these apps is not a warrantable repair per the Warranty And Policy Manual, Section 3, Warranty Coverages SYNC.
SSM 468342017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. After Installation Complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 468252017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2016-2017 Escape vehicles built on or before 01-Apr-2017 may exhibit a concern with the OAT reading inaccurate and/or the A/C inoperative. This may be due to water in connector C134(20 pin) in the left front fender apron. If a vehicle comes in with this condition, access connector C134 in the 14290 harness. Refer to Wiring Manual. Check connector C134 for corrosion and/or water contamination. If present, replace the pigtail harness (Refer to Pigtail Application Guide Under Repair Kits in the Wiring Manual) and add electrical grease (XG-12). For claiming, use causal part 14S411 and applicable labor operations in section 11 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual
SSM 468132017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. To recover the screen, perform a complete ignition cycle (key off, open and close the driver's door then wait 5 minutes). The SYNC software version of the vehicle can be confirmed via OASIS. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating; Monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 460732017-08-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2017 Escape, MKC, Fiesta, F150, Expedition, Navigator, Mustang, Transit, Focus, C-Max, MKX, Taurus, MKS, Flex, MKT, and Edge and 2017 Explorer, Fusion, MKZ, Super Duty, Transit Connect and Continental vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 might exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in Transport mode. Engineering is aware of this possibility and it is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled while in transportation mode. It is beneficial to extended battery life to keep the vehicle in Transport Mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. If the vehicle should exhibit a blank screen or other SYNC symptoms after it has been taken out of Transport mode, refer to Workshop Manual, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.