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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: Equipment and accessories are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 475192018-12-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2016-2018 Escape vehicles built on or before 26-Aug-2018 and 2016-2018 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 to the latest calibration using the latest version of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 14A068 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 475752018-11-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L engine may exhibit fuse F34 open, an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0034, P023A, P0245, P0480, P0481, P0645, P06A0, P06DB, P188D, P02602, and/or P2681 in the powertrain control module (PCM). The vehicle may also exhibit an all-wheel drive (AWD) fault warning and/or traction control (TC) light on. Inspect the 12A690 (1.5L) or 12C508 (2.0L) wiring harness from the battery junction box (BJB) to the PCM for wiring harness retainers not installed correctly allowing chafing to occur at multiple points. Repair damaged wiring as required. Refer to the Wiring Diagram for repair information. For claiming, use causal part 12A690 (1.5L) or 12C508 (2.0L) and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 474992018-09-24. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2018 Explorer and Escape vehicles equipped with a 4G TCU modem may exhibit an Acquiring Signal message with a loss of satellite radio reception while driving in unobstructed areas. If normal Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnosis and testing does not indicate a fault and no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are stored, do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates. To assist with the investigation, use the Report A Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report and complete the form.
SSM 474702018-09-24. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with an electronic manual temperature control (EMTC) system and built on or after 28-Jul-2016 may exhibit an inoperative heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system display and no HVAC operation after a key on event. When one of the HVAC controls are manipulated the system wakes up and will resume normal operation. To correct the concern, reprogram the HVAC module to the latest calibration using the latest version of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 19980 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 474202018-09-10. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES; EQUIPMENT; ENGINE. Some 2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an oily substance near the bellhousing area that could be perceived as an engine oil leak. This condition could be caused by assembly grease on the end of the crankshaft. Clean the area with Motorcraftù Brake Metal Parts Cleaner PM-4-A and compressed air. Add 1 oz. of Rotunda white engine oil dye 164-TP33200601 or equivalent to the engine and road test for 10 miles. Reinspect suspect area with Rotunda pure ultraviolet (UV) black light 164-TP8695 or 164-R3748 or equivalent. If evidence of white dye is found, follow Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 300-00 for engine oil leak diagnosis.
SSM 474162018-09-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SUSPENSION. Some 2013-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit damaged or delaminated bushing(s) on the rear suspension front lower arm (dog bone). If the rear suspension front lower arm requires replacement, an updated part BV6Z-5500-D with a solid bushing is available. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 204-02 for removal and installation.
18U17-S12018-07-23. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER; EQUIPMENT; SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:CALIPER. Certain 2018 Model Year Escape and MKC Vehicles - Rear Brake Caliper Bolt Torque
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 473352018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2017-2018 Escape and 2017-2019 MKC vehicles may exhibit a lack of A/C cooling performance during PDI. This may be due to a insufficient/low refrigerant charge. If a vehicle displays a lack of cooling performance during PDI, inspect for a leak. Refer to the diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 412-00 for A/C leak detection. Many times when the system is only evacuated and refilled to the proper level at PDI the customer will return for a lack of cooling performance concern. A refrigerant leak will usually be identified as the root cause.
SSM 470402018-06-11. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit inoperative climate or radio controls with DTCs U2100, U0140 in the FCIM or DTC U0164 in the body control module (BCM). This may be due to loss of communication or incomplete module configuration. Before further diagnosis, complete a battery reset per the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-01. Clear the DTCs and complete a FCIM self-test. If the DTCs are no longer present, no further action is required. For claiming, use causal part 19980 and applicable labor operations in section 11 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 470092018-06-11. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT. The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts and Service - Parts Product Line Information - Keys/Entry Devices - Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module(BCM) with a diagnostic tool.
SSM 470402018-05-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit inoperative climate or radio controls with DTCs U2100, U0140 in the FCIM or DTC U0164 in the body control module (BCM). This may be due to loss of communication or incomplete module configuration. Before further diagnosis, complete a battery reset per the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-01. Clear the DTCs and complete a FCIM self-test. If the DTCs are no longer present, no further action is required. For claiming, use causal part 19980 and applicable labor operations in section 11 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 470092018-05-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts and Service - Parts Product Line Information - Keys/Entry Devices - Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module(BCM) with a diagnostic tool.
SSM 472382018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM). Some 2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P04DB (crankcase ventilation system disconnected) in the powertrain control module (PCM). Inspect the crankcase pressure sensor tube at the rear air intake system connection for a partial disconnect. Disconnect the quick release coupling on the crankcase pressure sensor tube assembly and inspect the O-Ring for damage. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-12. Engineering is currently investigating. To assist with the investigation, use the Report a Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report and submit a Global Concern Report (GCR). Monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 472292018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018 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, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. 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 472192018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Various 2018 vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 automatic system updates via WI-FI are unable to connect to the vehicles 4G WI-FI Hotspot. SYNC/SYNC3 with automatic system updates do not support connecting SYNC to the vehicles internal 4G WI-FI Hotspot if equipped. The SYNC automatic update feature must be connected to an external Wi-Fi source to function properly. No repairs should be made in attempt to correct this concern.
SSM 472012018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle. Only approved Genuine Ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: Monroney Label (Window Sticker), Professional Technician Society (PTS) OASIS tab select SYNC or HVBOM. For Genuine Ford accessories use: PTS Workshop Tab select Dealer Installed Accessory or Accessory Installation.
SSM 471872018-05-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2017-2018 Escape/Focus/Transit Connect vehicles equipped with remote start may exhibit the engine shut off after using the remote start function to start the vehicle with DTC P1594 stored in the BCM. If using the FordPass app, the app will tell the customer that the vehicle started successfully, but the customer observes that the vehicle did not start or started then shut off. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 470802018-05-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. 2010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No repair attempts should be attempted to correct this concern.
SSM 469332018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles with electronic manual temperature control (EMTC) and ford original accessory (FOA) or factory invoiced accessory (FIA) scalable remote start systems may exhibit a concern of the air distribution and temperature controls becoming locked after 5 minutes when the vehicle is started with the remote start system. Reprogram the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) module using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software (FJDS) release 107.01 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 19980 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 469302018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2016-2018 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode and is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure allowing time for the SYNC system to complete all tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
SSM 468602017-12-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Some 2016-2018 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode and is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure allowing time for the SYNC system to complete all tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
SSM 468542017-12-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2017-2018 Fusion/MKZ/MKC/MKX/Continental with all audio systems and 2017-2018 Escape with Sony audio systems may exhibit an inoperative speed compensation volume feature. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates.

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