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Service bulletins for the 2018 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.

173 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 485582020-03-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. SSM 48558 - 2017-2020 Various Vehicles Equipped With Telematics Control Unit (TCU) - Various FordPass/LincolnWay Mobile App Concerns Some 2017-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programming, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
19B37-S22020-03-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Attachments: A new Service Advisor to Customer interaction video is now available. This video illustrates the speed and simplicity of the dongle re-flash process. • Non-Traditional Repair Approaches: The dongle re-flash process allows for an improved customer experience, dealer service efficiency, speed, and no need for an appointment, service bay, or trained technician. • Service Action: All dealers will be shipped at least one dongle by February 28, 2020. • Shipment of dongles began the week of February 17, 2020. Dealers with the largest VIN count received the initial shipment. • Dealers may request additional dongles from the SSSC as needed. • Technician time clocking is not required for this program when using the 19B37 dongle.
19B372020-01-08. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Customer Satisfaction Program 19B37 Certain 2017-2019 Model Year Fusion and Escape Vehicles Equipped with a 1.5L GTDI Engine - Powertrain Control Module Reprograming
SSM 483402019-12-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2019 vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a map displayed on the left half of the SYNC screen with no other information/soft buttons present after updating to the latest version of V3.0 software. This issue occurs when the SYNC 3 system has been previously modified using an aftermarket device to display the Ford GT welcome screen/HMI Theme. To correct this issue, please contact the Technical Hotline Assistance Center to have the vehicle restored back to its original state.
SSM 483352019-12-05. Service bulletin. TRAILER HITCHES; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2019 Escape vehicles may exhibit a 'Trailer Connected' or 'Trailer Disconnected' message in the vehicle's message center with no trailer attached to the vehicle. To correct this condition, reprogram the trailer module (TRM) using the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming use causal part (19H332) and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 483162019-12-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programming, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 482792019-11-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a telematics control unit (TCU) may exhibit a persistent message in the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app advising, Your vehicles software is being updated. Vehicle controls will be unavailable for about 10 minutes while this update takes place. This may be due to the TCU still in factory mode. Using the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool, check the TCU_AUTHSTATE PID status showing Factory Mode. To correct this condition, perform programmable module installation (PMI) on the telematics control unit (TCU). Once PMI is completed, ensure the TCU_AUTHSTATE PID in service tool no longer displays Factory Mode. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM) section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 482672019-11-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 482602019-11-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programming, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 481232019-09-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA and negative battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-BA are available for this type of repair. Do not cut or shorten the battery cable, instead carefully remove the affected battery cable clamp and clean the cable end as necessary to preserve wire length. Some rework may be necessary for some vehicle environments. Bend the new positive battery cable clamp as needed and crimp it to the existing battery cable. Make sure to use heat shrink tubing over the battery cable to battery cable clamp connection. Obtain the heat shrink tube locally.
SSM 480532019-07-08. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2019 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. Section
SSM 479372019-05-07. Service bulletin. ENGINE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. SSM 47937 - 2019 MKC, 2018-2019 Escape - 2.0L - Auto Start/Stop - No Auto Restart After An Auto Stop Event With DTC P164C Some 2018-2019 Escape vehicles built on or after 01-Aug-2018 or 2019 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine may exhibit an auto start/stop, no auto restart concern with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P164C. A revised crankshaft position sensor (CKP) JX6Z-6C315-B is available. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-14A. For claiming, use causal part 6C315 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 478502019-05-07. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been developed and is available from Rotunda (339-EVDC100). A tester has been provided to each U.S. dealership free of charge with shipments completed 19-Apr-2019 (reference EFC07013 on FMCDealer.com). This tester will help reduce the potential for misdiagnosis and unnecessary compressor replacement. Make sure that this tester is used for warranty repairs and document the test results in the Technician Comments field. Refer to the Rotunda catalog for a video and user manual which provide detailed operating instructions.
SSM 478242019-04-08. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2017 vehicles may experience a no crank concern due to a security access key table error. When attempting to program keys or perform a parameter reset, the procedure may fail and the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) scan tool may display an error 232: Key Table Not Allocated. If this error message is encountered, the Body Control Module (BCM) is internally faulted and requires replacement. For claiming, use causal part 15604 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 478212019-04-08. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 477842019-04-08. Service bulletin. LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL. Some 2017-2019 Escape vehicles built on or after 6-Apr-2017 equipped with factory trailer tow may exhibit a concern with a trailer lamp out warning and/or blind spot information system (BLIS) not available warning without a trailer connected to the vehicle. Access connectors C439 (4 pin) and C432 (12 pin) within the trailer connector harness (15K868). Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 151. Inspect connectors for corrosion and/or water contamination. Clean as required and add electrical grease (XG-12 or equivalent). Make certain the protective cover over C439 is installed and fully seated to prevent future water intrusion. For claiming, use causal part 15K868 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 478752019-04-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX, Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles not equipped with an auto start/stop system may exhibit an inability 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 fuse 88 is missing, install a 25 amp fuse and then re-evaluate the concern. If fuse 88 is installed in a vehicle with an auto start/stop system, the vehicle may exhibit concerns where the radio is turning off during an auto start/stop event and the instrument panel cluster (IPC) back lighting slowly goes dim during auto start/stop events.
SSM 478242019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2017 vehicles may experience a no crank concern due to a security access key table error. When attempting to program keys or perform a parameter reset, the procedure may fail and the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) scan tool may display an error 232: Key Table Not Allocated. If this error message is encountered, the Body Control Module (BCM) is internally faulted and requires replacement. For claiming, use causal part 15604 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 478212019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 477842019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2019 Escape vehicles built on or after 6-Apr-2017 equipped with factory trailer tow may exhibit a concern with a trailer lamp out warning and/or blind spot information system (BLIS) not available warning without a trailer connected to the vehicle. Access connectors C439 (4 pin) and C432 (12 pin) within the trailer connector harness (15K868). Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 151. Inspect connectors for corrosion and/or water contamination. Clean as required and add electrical grease (XG-12 or equivalent). Make certain the protective cover over C439 is installed and fully seated to prevent future water intrusion. For claiming, use causal part 15K868 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 477502019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM). Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 477482019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2019 Escape and 2016-2018 Focus/C-Max vehicles may exhibit a customer perceived concern of a FDIM screen flicker during transitions between day/night mode and/or during auto headlamp on/off. The FDIM utilizes a ramp up and ramp down strategy of controlling the back lighting when the display setting is in auto dimming mode. This is a normal condition that does not affect the function or durability of the FDIM. Auto dimming mode can be turned off to minimize the ramp up and ramp down lighting strategy. To turn off the auto dimming mode feature in the FDIM display: select> FDIM settings> Display settings> Auto Dim selection. Do not confuse the auto dimming mode selection with the selection for auto day/night operation. Turning off auto dimming mode only effects the back lighting strategy and does not affect any other function or FDIM reliability.
SSM 477222019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Some 2018-2019 Escape, Transit Connect and EcoSport vehicles equipped with a keyed ignition and a factory invoiced accessory (FIA) VSS may exhibit intermittent alarm activation with lights flashing and the horn sounding after a loud noise and/or shockwave near the vehicle (ex. large truck passing, garage door slamming closed). The root cause of this concern may be an incorrect shock sensor sensitivity adjustment on the VSS module. Perform the shock sensor sensitivity adjustment procedure outlined in the vehicle security/remote start installation guide located on the PTS website. The shock sensor requires adjustment during the installation of a vehicle security/remote start system. The shock sensor sensitivity adjustment procedure should be performed following the installation instructions.
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.

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