2013-2019 Ford Escape: Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule for 2013-2019 Ford Escape

Important data notes and limitations

• Real NHTSA data provided: No owner complaints found for this make/model/year/issue combination.
• Official recalls: No recalls found in NHTSA database.
• Data caution: The absence of complaints or recalls in this dataset does not guarantee the absence of other issues. This schedule combines practical, general automotive maintenance guidance with the specific engine options Ford offered in the Escape during 2013–2019. Always follow the maintenance intervals and specifications in your owner’s manual for your exact engine/transmission setup. If in doubt, consult a qualified technician.
• Purpose of this guide: A practical, owner-focused maintenance plan that helps you keep your Escape reliable, safe, and efficient. It includes typical service intervals, what to service, and approximate 2025 cost ranges where relevant.

Overview: what you drive (engine options in this generation)

• 2013–2019 Ford Escape offered several engines across the generation, including:
  • 2.5L I-4 (naturally aspirated)
  • 1.6L EcoBoost (turbocharged)
  • 2.0L EcoBoost (turbocharged)
  • (Some trims and model years offered hybrid variants with different components)
• Common maintenance themes across these engines:
  • Regular oil and filter changes with the recommended viscosity and specification.
  • Routine air filtration (engine air filter and cabin air filter).
  • Proper coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid maintenance per the manual.
  • Spark plug service intervals (varies by engine; EcoBoost engines often target around 100,000 miles).
  • Tire care, brake inspection, and suspension/steering checks at various intervals.
• Practical note: Turbocharged EcoBoost engines generally benefit from high-quality synthetic oil and more attentive cooling/air-fuel system maintenance due to higher operating temperatures and boost pressures.

What this schedule covers

• Regular maintenance items (oil, filters, fluids, tires, brakes, belts, hoses, battery, wipers).
• Inspection items (brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, cooling system, HVAC).
• Engine-specific notes (spark plugs, turbo engine considerations, air and fuel system checks).
• Time-based items (filters and cabin air air filters) in addition to mileage-based intervals.
• 2025 cost ranges for common maintenance and part replacements to help you budget.

Maintenance schedule by mileage and time (practical, owner-focused plan)

0–5,000 miles (initial baseline and setup)

• Basic checks: verify tire pressures, inspect all fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid if visible, windshield washer).
• If needed, top off fluids to recommended levels.
• Inspect wiper blades and replace if worn.

5,000–7,500 miles (roughly every 6–7.5k miles)

• Engine oil and oil filter replacement (use the viscosity spec in your owner’s manual; many Ford Escapes use 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend; confirm for your engine).
• Tire rotation and balance (helps even tire wear and maintain handling).
• Inspect brakes (pads, rotors, calipers) and brake fluid level; inspect suspension components.
• Inspect drive belt(s) and hoses; check serpentine belt condition if visible (some engines may have a belt; many modern Escapes use a single belt system).
• Check battery condition and terminals; clean corrosion if needed.
• Cabin air filter: inspect; replace if it appears dirty (see note at 15k miles).

15,000 miles

• Replace cabin air filter (recommended) to maintain cabin air quality and HVAC efficiency.
• Engine air filter replacement (if not done earlier or as needed by inspection).
• Re-check fluids, tires, and brakes; rotate tires if not done recently.

30,000 miles

• Replace engine air filter if not already done.
• Inspect and top off all fluids; inspect cooling system hoses and clamps; check radiator and overflow bottle.
• Tire rotation if not done at 5k–7.5k mile mark.
• Brake system inspection (pads, rotors, drums if applicable; check calipers and lines).

60,000 miles

• Transmission service planning (see note below): Many Ford automatics are designed with a “lifetime” fluid in some models, but many owners choose to inspect or replace ATF depending on manual guidance and service history. If you have a service history and manufacturer guidance allows, plan a transmission fluid inspection or change around this interval or at 100k miles when the plugs/fluids are usually addressed.
• Spark plugs: For EcoBoost engines, typical replacement interval is around 100,000 miles; for non-turbo engines, many achieve similar intervals. Check your manual for exact replacement interval for your engine; plan to replace plugs at or near 100k if your engine requires it.
• Coolant flush and replacement: Consider coolant renewal if not already done within the last several years; typical guidance is around 100,000 miles or 5–6 years (whichever comes first).
• Brake fluid flush: Check the age of brake fluid; if more than 2 years since last flush, plan a flush and replacement.
• Inspect cooling system, radiator, water pump, and thermostat for signs of wear or leaks.
• Battery: Test battery health; replace if voltage or cold-crank performance is degraded.
• Tire health: Rotate and inspect; evaluate tread depth and alignment if uneven wear appears.

90,000 miles

• Spark plugs (if not already replaced at 100k) per engine specification.
• Transmission service as recommended in your manual or by your shop.
• Coolant flush if not already done.
• Brake service: inspect pads, rotors, lines; replace as needed.
• Wiper blades and cabin air filter: replace as needed.

100,000 miles

• Spark plugs replacement per engine specification (common across EcoBoost and non-turbo engines; check exact interval for your engine).
• Transmission fluid replacement (as per manual or mechanic’s recommendation) if not performed earlier.
• Coolant flush and refill.
• Belts/hoses check and replacement if showing wear (where applicable).
• Inspect turbocharger components (if equipped) and related lubricants and lines; address any leaks or issues.
• Comprehensive inspection: belts, hoses, battery, alternator, steering, suspension, exhaust system.

120,000 miles and beyond

• Continue with ongoing items: oil changes, filter replacements, tires, brakes, fluids, filters.
• Reassess major components for wear and replace as needed (timing chain condition if applicable, water pump, etc., depending on age and wear).

Notes on engine specifics and maintenance philosophy

• Engine oil and filters: Use the viscosity and specification recommended in your owner’s manual. Synthetic oil is commonly used in EcoBoost engines for better protection at higher temperatures and boost pressures.
• Spark plugs: EcoBoost engines generally target replacement around 100,000 miles; non-turbo engines often have similar or longer intervals. Always follow the exact interval in your manual, as it depends on engine type.
• Transmission fluid: Some Escape models use a life-long ATF in certain transmissions, but many owners prefer periodic changes (e.g., around 60k–100k miles) depending on driving conditions and manual guidance. If you tow, drive in severe conditions, or drive in hot weather, consider changing AS recommended by Ford or your technician.
• Cooling system: The Escape’s cooling system should be inspected regularly. If you see coolant leaks, white smoke, or overheating, address immediately.
• Turbo considerations (1.6L EcoBoost and 2.0L EcoBoost): Turbocharged engines benefit from clean fuel and clean air paths; check for oil consumption symptoms, PCV system functionality, and keep oil changes on time.
• Filters and air quality: Cabin air filter should be replaced regularly (often around 15,000 miles or annually, depending on environment). Engine air filter replacement helps intake efficiency and fuel economy.

2025 cost estimates (typical ranges in USD; regional variation and labor rates apply)

• Oil change (synthetic or synthetic blend): $40–$100 (labor typically included in service price; synthetic higher end).
• Engine air filter replacement: $20–$60 (parts; labor often included or minimal if done during oil change).
• Cabin air filter replacement: $25–$60 (part price; labor may be included in a full service).
• Tire rotation: $15–$45.
• Tire replacement (per tire, depending on brand and size): $100–$250; full set typically $400–$1,000.
• Brake pads replacement (per axle, installed): $150–$300 (pads only); rotor replacement may add $100–$300 per axle.
• Brake fluid flush: $70–$150.
• Battery replacement: $100–$200 (plus labor if installed by a shop; dealer price may be higher).
• Spark plugs replacement (labor included): $150–$350 (varies with engine and labor rates; higher for turbo engines).
• Transmission fluid change (ATF service): $150–$250 (some transmissions are drain-and-fill; some require more extensive service and payment varies by region).
• Coolant flush and refill: $100–$150.
• Serpentine belt or drive belt replacement: $100–$250 (if applicable; some engines use a timing belt or chain, which has different maintenance implications).
• Coolant hoses and radiator service: $50–$200 depending on parts and labor.
• Wiper blades: $10–$40.

Notes on cost estimates

• Prices vary by region, shop, and whether you use dealer or independent shops, as well as whether parts are OEM or aftermarket.
• Adding necessary inspections or additional repairs will affect total cost.

How to use this maintenance plan effectively

• Always start with your owner’s manual for engine-specific intervals and oil specifications.
• If you’re unsure about the exact engine in your Escape (1.6 EcoBoost, 2.0 EcoBoost, 2.5 I-4, or hybrid), confirm your engine code (often found on a sticker in the engine bay or door jamb) and follow that engine’s recommended service schedule.
• Use a simple maintenance log to track mileage and service dates:
  • Date, mileage, service performed, parts used, next due mileage/date.
  • Note any unusual symptoms (noise, fluid leaks, vibration) and address promptly.
• For reliability, consider scheduling major services (spark plug replacement if required, transmission service, coolant flush, belt/hoses inspection) around the 60k–100k mile window, especially if you expect to keep the vehicle long-term.

DIY readiness and quick checks

• Oil changes and filter: If you’re comfortable, you can do oil changes yourself with the correct sump pan, a suitable drain plug, and the right filter. Ensure you dispose of used oil properly.
• Cabin and engine air filters: Easy to replace in many Escape models; you’ll typically need to open the glove box or engine cover to access panels.
• Tire care: Regularly check tire pressure (use the door jamb label as a guide) and inspect tread wear.
• Wipers: A quick, easy replacement that improves visibility.
• Brake fluid and coolant levels: Periodically check levels and look for signs of contamination or leaks.
• Battery: Clean terminals if corrosion is present; test voltage if you have a multimeter.

Maintenance efficiency tips

• Schedule follow-up reminders ahead of the due mileage to avoid missing critical service windows.
• Use high-quality filters and fluids recommended for your engine.
• Keep records; they help with resale value and future service planning.
• If you tow or drive in extreme conditions (very hot/cold climates or dusty environments), plan more frequent inspections and changes as needed.

What to discuss with your mechanic

• Confirm engine type and that you’re following the proper oil specification for your model (viscosity and synthetic vs. conventional).
• Ask about the recommended transmission maintenance interval for your specific transmission and driving conditions.
• Discuss any symptoms you’ve noticed (oil consumption, misfires, rough shifting, cooling system overheating) to tailor the maintenance plan.
• Request a full system inspection if you’re approaching major milestone intervals (e.g., around 60k–100k miles).

Bottom line

• This guide provides a practical, owner-focused maintenance framework for 2013–2019 Ford Escape models. It aligns with general automotive maintenance best practices and leverages typical service intervals, with explicit note that the official NHTSA data provided shows no recalls and no owner complaints in this dataset. Always verify with your owner’s manual for engine-specific intervals and consult a qualified technician if you have any concerns. The 2025 cost ranges shown here are approximate and intended to help you budget; actual costs will vary by location and service provider.