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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.

By type

By component

By trouble code

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 470002018-05-29. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2013-2018 Escape/Fusion/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.5L or 1.5L/2.0L/3.0L Ecoboost engine, 2015-2018 MKC/Edge/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L/2.7L EcoBoost engine, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.7L Ecoboost engine, 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost, and AWD may exhibit a fluid leak from the PTU intermediate shaft seal. Replacement of the intermediate shaft seal seal does not require removal of the PTU and does not require the use of the cover seal and bolt kit (CV6Z-7275-K) to perform the repair. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 308-07.
18U122018-05-21. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. Certain 2018 Model Year Escape and MKC Vehicles - Transmission Bell Housing Bolt TorqueCertain 2012-2016 Model Year F-450 ? F-750 and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis Vehicles Equipped with a 6.8L Engine - Camshaft Roller Follower Replacement
SSM 472632018-05-21. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM). Some 2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction indicator (wrench) lamp with DTC P061E stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). Clear the DTC and return the vehicle to the customer. Do not attempt any other repairs at this time. Do not replace the PCM or brake pedal position (BPP)/brake on off (BOO) switch. Engineering is investigating. To assist with the investigation use the Report A Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report and complete the form. Monitor OASIS for updates.
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 472312018-05-21. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a timing belt saw or chirp type noise at idle while the vehicle is in transport mode. The noise is noticeable because of an elevated idle speed while the vehicle is in transport mode. Do not remove the vehicle from transport mode to diagnose or perform a repair for this noise. Vehicle should only be removed from transport mode as directed by the pre-delivery procedure.
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 472042018-05-21. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2015-2018 Fusion/MKZ/MKC/Escape/Edge vehicles equipped with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a runs rough condition with DTCs P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304 and/or P0316. This may be due to coolant intrusion due to corrosion on the engine block. To diagnose this concern, with the engine at normal operating temperature, pressurize the cooling system to 138 kPa (20 psi) and hold for 5 hours. If the coolant pressure drops 27.57 kPa (4psi), remove the spark plugs and inspect for coolant in the cylinders. If coolant is found in any of the cylinders, replace the engine long block assembly. Follow normal prior approval process for your Dealership. However, follow the diagnostic repair procedure in this article to determine correct repair. For claiming, use causal part 6006 and applicable labor operations in Section 6 of the SLTS Manual.
SSM 472032018-05-21. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. Some 2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated MIL on with DTC P051B. This DTC sets if the crankcase pressure sensor voltage is greater than a calibrated threshold. If DTC P051B is set with any other codes, diagnose and repair those DTCs first. If DTC P051B is the only DTC, use the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) datalogger and monitor CRNKCAS_P_V at KOEO for 10 seconds without tapping/disturbing the sensor or connector. If the sensor voltage is found to be less than 3.7V or more than 4.1V, replace the crankcase sensor/hose assembly and leave the sensor connected to the hose. If the hose assembly is replaced, record the sensor voltage in the claim or make a recording of the CRNKCAS_P_V at KOEO with the original sensor and upload the session to the server. Engineering is currently investigating. Monitor OASIS for updates.
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 471702018-05-21. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. Some vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 471582018-05-21. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS. Some 2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated MIL on with DTC P051B. This DTC sets when the PCM detects a sensor offset greater than a calibrated threshold just prior to engine cranking or if it detects crankcase pressure outside of the calibrated limit during low engine air flows. If DTC P051B is set with any other codes, diagnose and repair those DTCs first. If DTC P051B is the only DTC, remove and inspect the crankcase ventilation tube and sensor for ice/water. If any ice/water is found, replace the sensor and tube assembly. If no ice or water is found, follow Pin Point Test HG for the crankcase ventilation sensor and note that step HG4 should be performed KOEO only. Engineering is currently investigating. Monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 470862018-05-14. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L engine and built on or before 24-Jan-2018 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). May also exhibit an all-wheel drive (AWD) fault warning and/or traction control (TC) light on. Inspect the 14290 wiring harness at the battery junction box (BJB) under the air cleaner and/or the brake vacuum pump 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 14290 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the service labor time standards (SLTS) manual.
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 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.
17-22182018-01-29. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE. Some 2013-2018 Escape, Focus and C-Max vehicles may exhibit a water stained headliner after the vehicle has experienced a water leak from areas such as the roof opening panel, fixed glass, roof rails and roof ditch mouldings. Follow the procedure below to remove the water stains from the headliner after the water leak has been repaired. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 468622017-12-14. Service bulletin. BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM. Some owners of 2013-2018 Escape vehicles may complain of the rear license plate viewed in the lower portion of the display screen when using the parking aid camera. This is due to the convex camera lens to provide as much viewing angle as possible. This is a normal vehicle characteristic and no repairs or adjustments should be attempted to correct this condition.
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.
tsb17-22072017-12-14. Service bulletin. TIRES. Some 2017-2018 Escape vehicles may exhibit a vibration at highway speeds above 80 Km/h (50 MPH) which may be attributed to short term flat spotting in the tires. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

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