2020 Ford Ecosport Complaints

ENGINE — Filed 05/02/2025

The authorized Ford dealer failed to properly execute the safety recall repair. They twice filled my 1.0L EcoBoost wet-belt engine with standard domestic XO5W20BSP oil instead of the manufacturer-mandated, recall-specified WSS-M2C948-B oil. once under interm recall they replaced long block, second part of recall they repaired recalI but put wrong spec oil in again. car has been driven 6,000 miles on the wrong oil, creating a renewed risk of timing belt delamination, oil pump starvation, and sudden engine failure on the highway.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 09/18/2026

The low brake fluid warning came on my dash as I tried to stop at a stop sign. I tried again to depress the brake pedal and the brake pedal was not moving. It was like it was locked in place. The second time I tried to push the brake, the warning flashed that I had no brake fluid. I managed to avoid traffic and the treeline, but sailed over a guide sign and into a cluster of power lines. Two of the lines were pulled out of the ground from the force of the impact. I checked the brake fluid reservoir and I do in fact have brake fluid within the specified range. My brakes should have worked.

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 09/23/2026

While in traffic, the brakes were pressed, the car did not brake and I had to swerve to try to avoid one collision and caused another one. The steering wheel airbag did not deploy and the vehicle i hit was struck twice.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE — Filed 10/15/2025

after my oil pump recall was done, the check engine light came on and is reading code P04DB.

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE — Filed 09/12/2026

Kept like revving the engine like it was whining tight never show no check engine light nothing ever showed up was driving down the road and the car completely shut off no warning signs no nothing all was coming out of it like a oil pump or something had went out in the car.

ENGINE — Filed 08/03/2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, smoke was observed coming from the rear of the vehicle, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the vehicle needed a tune-up. The contact later received a notification through the mobile application indicating that the engine had multiple misfires. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure occurred after a recall-related engine replacement had previously been completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and denied the contact's request for a buyback. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE — Filed 08/30/2026

​Statement of Problem & Safety Risk: I am filing a complaint regarding a persistent, critical safety defect on my 2020 Ford EcoSport. This vehicle previously suffered an engine failure linked to Ford Recall 23S64 / NHTSA Campaign 23V-905 (oil pump drive belt/tensioner failure causing loss of oil pressure). An engine assembly replacement was performed under the recall around 58,000 miles. ​Despite having the recall service performed, the replacement engine has now experienced a secondary failure. The vehicle’s wrench light illuminated, and the car went into severe "Limp Mode" while being driven, resulting in an immediate loss of accelerator power and engine torque. ​This creates an extreme safety hazard, causing a sudden loss of drive power in traffic and exposing the engine to potential oil starvation, complete engine seizure, and loss of power braking assist. ​Manufacturer & Dealership Non-Compliance: Both Ford Motor Company customer service and local Ford dealership management have stonewalled our requests to diagnose and address this recurring safety hazard under the active federal recall. They have refused to assist or provide appropriate loaner transportation while the vehicle remains unsafe to operate. ​I request that NHTSA document this failed recall repair, investigate repeat oil pump belt/engine failures on vehicles serviced under Campaign 23V-905, and compel Ford Motor Company to honor its safety recall obligations. This is an ongoing problem these cars are junk and the consumer is stuck paying for it. I am not sure what date to put underneath here because the issue is ongoing

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 01/29/2026

"I am reporting a severe, high-risk safety and under-hood fire hazard involving a 2020 Ford EcoSport tied directly to federal Safety Recall 23S64 [23S64]. The vehicle suffered a catastrophic loss of internal oil pressure, leading to an official diagnostic scan by Kerry Ford confirming a hard-stored P0015 Camshaft Timing defect [23S64]. The dealership is actively evading the federal recall remedy by falsely claiming the failure is just a bad sensor [23S64]. The vehicle is now experiencing critical failure symptoms: it is consuming extreme amounts of gasoline rapidly and filling both the interior cabin and exterior air with a heavy, toxic odor of raw fuel while running, making it entirely unsafe to operate in public traffic [23S64]. Furthermore, our auto lender has verbally stated on a recorded line that they are refusing repossession because the car holds zero value, forcing a hazardous, un-remedied federal safety defect to remain stranded on a residential property [23S64]."

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING — Filed 07/29/2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford EcoSport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V905000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was notified of the failure and confirmed that parts were unavailable. The contact later received a letter stating that parts were available; however, the dealer stated that due to a limited supply, they could only service the recall if the vehicle had experienced the failure. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer to be repaired. Upon inspection, the mechanic discovered that the engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm was fractured, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

ENGINE — Filed 04/24/2026

It was a recall oil pump tensor bar. They fixed that blew the engine.I had to wait for them to fix what they messed up with the engine.They fixed that drove forty miles away from the dealer and the engine overheated

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE — Filed 05/10/2025

The affected component is the powertrain system in my 2020 Ford EcoSport. The vehicle has experienced repeated powertrain-related failures and is available for inspection upon request. In May 2025, the vehicle required a full engine replacement, yet I am continuing to experience serious powertrain-related issues. The vehicle has displayed powertrain malfunction warnings and has experienced improper acceleration, hesitation, loss of power, and instances where the vehicle has stopped at intersections. These issues create a serious safety risk because the vehicle may not respond when acceleration is needed, including when entering traffic, turning, merging, or attempting to avoid hazards. A vehicle that loses power or stops unexpectedly at intersections creates a risk of collision and puts myself, my passengers, and other motorists in danger. This issue has occurred multiple times and has required repeated service attention. The vehicle is scheduled to be inspected again due to the ongoing powertrain failure concern. Despite significant repairs, including a complete engine replacement, the underlying issue appears to remain unresolved. Prior to the failures, the vehicle displayed warning messages related to the powertrain system. The symptoms have included reduced acceleration, hesitation, loss of power, and the vehicle stopping unexpectedly while driving. The vehicle has been inspected by Ford service providers, including the prior engine replacement performed in May 2025. I am submitting this complaint because repeated powertrain failures, loss of acceleration, and unexpected stopping while operating the vehicle present a significant safety concern. I believe this issue warrants investigation to determine whether there is a broader defect affecting 2020 Ford EcoSport vehicles.

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 04/03/2026

On April 3, 2026, this vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical failure as I was driving on US-169, in Kansas City, Mo.,l The engine seized and the fuel line ruptured resulting in an undercarriage fire with small explosions. I had to be physically extracted from the burning vehicle by a Clay County Sheriff’s Deputy, Clay County Sheriff’s Department, Liberty, Missouri (Report #CC2600810). This catastrophic asset and recall remedy failure is the direct result of a recognized federal safety defect (Ford Safety Recall 23S64 / NHTSA Campaign 23V905). The original engine blew from an oil pump failure in October 2024 and was towed to certified Ford dealer Smithville (Mo.) Ford on October 9, 2024 as per the recall. The new engine was not re-installed until May 24, 2025 due to delay in getting parts At the time of the recall reinstallation, the vehicle had 61,556 miles on it. When the fire happened on April 3 of this year, the vehicle had 70, 956 miles . I want to emphasize that Under explicit authorization from Ford Motor Company’s recall interim guidelines, the dealership performed a complete engine assembly swap. Per the official service invoice, this replacement engine was backed by a 3-year or 100,000-mile Ford Powertrain Warranty. At the time of the fire 11 months later, the vehicle had not yet reached 71,000 miles and was fully covered under active factory warranty.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 12/28/2025

Incident Date: 12/28/2025 Location: [XXX] Related Recall: 23V905 / 23S64 On December 28, 2025, while driving at highway speeds on [XXX] , my 2020 Ford EcoSport suffered a sudden engine fire. There were no prior dashboard warnings or "Check Engine" lights until the fire began, the vehicle speed started to slow down itself, and I immediately pulled over on the side of the interstate. I turned off the vehicle, and lifted the hood, since I saw smoke, and there was a fire under the hood. I called [XXX] , and the [XXX] /Cobb County Fire Department responded to the scene and inspected the vehicle under the hood. I have video evidence of the fire department on-scene and the emergency inspection of the burning engine. This vehicle is subject to Safety Recall 23V905 (Ford 23S64) for oil pump belt/tensioner failure leading to engine seizure. Crucially, a recall "repair" had been previously performed on this vehicle, yet the engine still suffered a catastrophic thermal event. This indicates either an ineffective remedy or a negligent installation. The vehicle was towed to Hennessy Ford [XXX] ). Their diagnosis confirmed: "COIL PACK BURN AND BURNED THE #2 INJECTOR AND HARNESS AND VALVE COVER." Despite the federal mandate that recall-related failures be handled at no cost, the dealership attempted to charge me over $2,000 for the diagnosis and repairs. Furthermore, Ford Customer Relationship Center (escalated 03/27/2026) has stalled the case by moving it to legal counsel with a 15-day waiting period. I am reporting this as a serious safety defect and a failure of a prior recall remedy. I am requesting a full investigation into the fire and a manufacturer buyback as the vehicle's safety integrity is now compromised. Also, I filed a claim with Ford Customer Relationship Center, here is my case number: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

AIR BAGS — Filed 01/04/2026

My concern is in regards to nhtsa recall number 20v-719, the 2020 Ford ecosport. The recall states that there are 10 ecosport vehicles that have airbag module issues where the airbags won't deploy. I have a 2020 Ford ecosport and I was just in a crash this past weekend. The airbags should have deployed because I hit some big trees. But no airbags deployed. There was Major front end damage. I have photos of everything. I believe that there could be more than just 10 vehicles involved and the mine is potentially included in that bunch. I see below in this form that I can attach files. So I will try to attach some photos there of the damage to the vehicle.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 12/22/2024

My Ford 2020 EcoSport caught on fire last 12/22/24 for a recall that Ford acknowledged. I am still waiting for it to get fixed, it is now 01/30/25. Now I have been paying for a car rental from my own pocket, not sure how much longer this will be. Also, I will pay for $1,000 deductible when I pick up my car because I filed a claim through my insurance which covered only my towing and a portion of the cost for repairs after my deductible. This is so unfair because Ford said they will NOT cover anything. This is now causing hardship financially with my family. I am a single Mom, sole provider and now, I will have to be late on my rent depending on how long it will get fixed too, since I need to get a rental in order to continue to get to work, take my daughter to school and care for my elderly parents. I feel so defeated because I can't rely on a car that I need for my livelihood. I did not cause nor ask for this, but Ford is not helping alleviate the ripple effects that this caused my family. What's worse is that when I spoke with Ford in 12/27/2024, they acknowledged that this only a band aid, not a definite solution for the problem. I don't think that I will have any more money in the future to deal with something they know may catch on fire again. It is so immoral. I would like to also add that I purchased an extended warranty when I purchased the vehicle in 10/2020. Since I am now over the miles stipulated, Ford will not budge. I only got free oil changes from an extended warranty that was over $6,000. Again, very immoral. Please help me and my family. I would like to join if there's an ongoing class action lawsuit.

POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,ENGINE — Filed 06/11/2024

Car had known recall and dealership was notified prior to this happening and I was advised that I was fine. Few months later, oil pump failed and seized engine while merging onto I40 with my 2 children in the backseat. Crash had almost happened but I was able to safely stop the vehicle and remove my kids from the smoking car. Small grass fire started under the car as the oil flooded from underneath my car but self estinguished. My car has been at the dealership for almost a month and they plan to put the same recalled part back into my car until remedy is available in November 2025. Front driver airbag also has a recall that it may not deploy if vehicle crashes which vehicle is already at risk for. There was no warning signs or symptoms.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FIRERELATED — Filed 01/31/2024

As I was driving the car started smoking and then caught on fire. Full flames for the front I had to rush out the car.

ENGINE — Filed 09/30/2023

Oil pump failure causing entire motor to need to be replaced. Motor failed at 60,400 miles just outside of warranty while going down the interstate at 70 miles an hour. Ford has offered to do nothing with the repair and the engine is on back order for 6 months. This is a know issue already under investigation by the NHSTA and i want to add my case.

ENGINE — Filed 07/18/2023

I was driving on the highway on July 18, 2023 and had engine failure. The car made a thump as if engine collapsed and there was fire under the car - 2020 Ford Ecosport. The car was towed to Ford dealer (Waynesville NC) and was declared a total loss by Geico Insurance and Ford Mechanic Dept. The manager said these cars have a problem with oil pump failure and the result is engine failure. Car was towed to junkyard and next day Geico changed their mind from their responsibility of total loss. Geico said it's all over the internet the oil pump failure issue with this vehicle, and that is it the responsiblity of Ford to fix or total vehicle. At this time no one is taking responsiblity to pay off lease nor to fix the problem. Car is sitting in front yard without being able to move as it has a hole in engine with damages from incident and whatever Ford mechanics did and junkyard.

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 05/29/2022

While driving my 2020 Ford Ecosport it spontaneously caught fire and exploded on Sunday, May 29th. •I purchased my 2020 Ford Ecosport from Ford or Helfman Ford in Stafford Texas on Monday, May 25th, 2020. I immediately had problems with the vehicle and have taken the vehicle in multiple times for overheating issues and the check engine light coming on. •May 25th, 2020 – overheating and coolant light came on. Vehicle taken to Planet Ford in Dallas May 28, 2020. Vehicle repaired and picked up from Planet Ford on May 29th, 2020. •May 30th, 2020 - check engine light came back on. Vehicle taken back to Planet Ford in Dallas June 2, 2020 and I picked it up. Vehicle repaired and picked and I picked June 5, 2020. •April 2nd, 2021, I took it the vehicle to Helfman Ford for routine maintenance and the continuous check engine light problem. I received the car back the same day with paperwork stating that they could not re-create the problem. •August 4th 2021, I took it back to Helfman Ford, vehicle was running very rough and was extremely loud. On 10/06/2020 the vehicle was returned after extensive repairs were done to exhaust and engine under warranty (see repair invoice). •My check engine light and coolant light continued to come on sporadically producing the same error messages in the Ford app for my car. •On May 7, 2022 My check engine light come back on and I received an error message that I had never seen prior but as soon as I stopped the message went away •On May 17, 2022 I took the car in one final time too Planet Ford Dallas. They replaced the coolant sensor but were not able to replicate the error and I was told since they could not produce the error, •On May 29, 2022 at 2:08 while driving the check engine came on, and I lost all engine power. Smoke started coming from the engine area and within seconds from exiting the vehicle the engine was on fire and the car exploded.

AIR BAGS — Filed 02/23/2023

My wife was in an accident and the right hand side airbags failed to deploy and she was hit around 30mph and i know a airbag will deploy at that speed

ENGINE — Filed 01/09/2023

My husband was driving home from work when he heard a boom. He had thought he hit something but didn’t feel or see anything. A few minutes later he saw smoke coming from the engine and thought maybe a hose had come off or something so he pulled into a parking lot. When he lifted the hood the car was on fire.

AIR BAGS — Filed 09/09/2022

I rear ended a car got a concussion because my airbags did not deploy

AIR BAGS — Filed 08/20/2021

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ecosport. The contact stated that while stopped and attempting to make a left turn, another vehicle ran a red light and T-boned his vehicle. Due to the impact, his vehicle slammed into a guardrail on a bridge, nearly knocking the vehicle over the bridge. The contact stated that all curtain side airbags were deployed; however, his driver and passenger side airbags did not deploy. The contact stated that he was trapped in the vehicle and had to wait for authorities to assist him out of the vehicle. The contact was rushed to the hospital but decided to leave after a long wait in the emergency room. The contact stated that he did have soreness to his right shoulder and right arm. A police report was filed (210066310). The whereabouts of the other driver were unknown. The vehicle was towed to an independent body shop where it remained in their possession after the contact was given an estimate for repair. Upon investigation, the contact linked his failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V791000(Air Bags). The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 20,310.

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SEATS — Filed 08/16/2020

THIS CAR WAS HIT AND THE SEAT BENT. I AM STILL DEALING WITH HIP NECK KNEE AND SHOULDER INJURIES. IT WAS A RENTAL CAR. I WAS SITTING AT A RED LIGHT. AN 8 TON BOX TRUCK HIT IT GOING APPROX 45 MPH. I SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION. 2 MONTHS LATER I HAD A HEMORRHAGIC STROKE.