The 2017 Ford Escape is a capable, comfortable crossover that has earned a loyal following — but it also carries a set of well-documented mechanical problems that owners should understand before putting more money into one. Whether you bought yours new or picked it up used, two components deserve your immediate attention: the 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission and the 1.5L EcoBoost engine.
At expediaparts.com, we see these vehicles regularly, and we want to give you straight answers about what fails, what it costs to fix, and what your best replacement options are. Our goal is simple: we want to get you back on the road.
This guide covers the most common transmission and engine failures on the 2017 Escape, the recall you may not know about, realistic replacement part pricing, and the warranty protection you get when you buy from us.
What the Research Shows
The 2017 Ford Escape ranks #10 on our list of vehicles with the most commonly replaced powertrain components — and for good reason. According to DriveSmart Auto's Ford Escape common issues guide, the 2017 model year is specifically flagged for EcoBoost engine power loss and transmission acceleration problems. Community data from Ford Escape owners on Reddit and a detailed breakdown by Powertrain Products confirm that the 6F35 transmission used across 2009–2021 Escape models is prone to torque converter failures, internal contamination, and hard shifting. These are not isolated incidents — there is an active class-action lawsuit history tied specifically to this gearbox.
The video "2017 Ford Escape: Top 5 Most Common Problems" by Ay8 Fix walks through the most frequently reported failures, while a live transmission diagnosis video shows exactly what these symptoms look like in real time. If you're experiencing hesitation, shuddering between 35 and 45 mph, or sluggish acceleration, you're in the right place.
Common Transmission Problems
The 2017 Escape uses the 6F35 six-speed automatic, the same unit Ford used across the Escape lineup from 2013 through 2019. The most consistently reported issues include:
• Torque converter shudder at 35–45 mph — a vibration or shaking sensation during light acceleration that signals the torque converter clutch is failing. Once debris from the converter enters the transmission, it contaminates the valve body, solenoids, and internal filter.
• Transmission fluid leaks — caused by worn seals and gaskets that allow fluid to escape, accelerating wear across all internal components.
• Hard shifting and delayed engagement — sluggish or jarring shifts, especially noticeable when moving from park to drive or during highway acceleration.
• Coolant intrusion into the transmission — in some cases, engine cooling system failures allow coolant to migrate into the transmission fluid, causing rapid internal damage.
As Lemon Law Firm's detailed 6F35 report notes, some 6F35 transmissions have failed before 20,000 miles. Regular fluid maintenance helps, but it does not eliminate the underlying torque converter design issues.
Ready to replace your 6F35? Shop used and remanufactured 6F35 transmissions at expediaparts.com.
Common Engine Problems
The 2017 Escape was offered with either the 1.5L EcoBoost (the primary engine) or the 2.0L EcoBoost. The 1.5L unit carries the more serious documented problems:
• Coolant intrusion into the cylinders — the most severe issue, covered by a Ford recall (see below). Coolant enters the combustion chamber due to erosion or pitting of the engine block surface, causing white exhaust smoke, rough running, and misfires. Diagnostic codes P0300–P0304, P0316, P0217, P1285, and P1299 are associated with this failure.
• Power loss under acceleration — owners report sudden loss of thrust, particularly under load. This can stem from turbocharger wear, fuel system degradation, or the early stages of coolant intrusion.
• EcoBoost cooling system failures — hose deterioration, water pump failures, and thermostat issues that, left unaddressed, lead directly to the coolant intrusion problem.
Recall Note
This is important. Ford issued a recall and Customer Satisfaction Program (21N12) specifically covering 2017–2019 Ford Escape models equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine for coolant intrusion into the cylinder bore. According to NHTSA documentation (TSB MC-10174400), affected vehicles may show low coolant level, white exhaust smoke, and rough running. The repair involves replacing the engine short block at no charge to the vehicle owner.
Action step: Check your VIN immediately at NHTSA.gov to confirm whether your specific vehicle is covered. If it is, this repair should cost you nothing at a Ford dealership. If your VIN is not covered or the engine has already failed beyond the scope of the recall, a replacement engine is the next step.
Other Common Failures
Beyond the transmission and engine, 2017 Escape owners also report:
• Transmission acceleration hesitation — the vehicle feels reluctant to move even when the engine is revving, a sign of slipping clutch packs or a failing torque converter.
• Coolant reservoir issues — reservoir cracks and cap failures that cause gradual coolant loss, often the first warning sign before more serious engine problems develop.
• Transfer case wear on AWD models — the power transfer unit (PTU) on all-wheel-drive Escapes is subject to wear, particularly when PTU fluid changes are neglected. Symptoms include grinding or humming from the front of the vehicle under load.
Used vs. Remanufactured
When your transmission or engine needs to be replaced, you have two solid options — and the right choice depends on your budget and how long you plan to keep the vehicle.
Used parts are inspected, pulled from donor vehicles, and priced for owners who need an economical solution quickly. They are a practical choice for shorter-term ownership.
Remanufactured parts are fully disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt to OEM specifications with new wear components. They carry stronger warranties and are the better investment if you plan to drive the vehicle for several more years. Given the documented failure patterns of the 6F35 and the 1.5L EcoBoost, a remanufactured unit gives you the most confidence in long-term reliability.
At expediaparts.com, we stock both options. Browse our inventory now.
Price Range
Here's what to expect for the part itself on a 2017
Ford Escape (price varies with mileage, condition, core charge, and shipping):
- Used transmission: $800–$1,400
- Remanufactured transmission: $1,800–$3,200
- Used engine: $700–$1,500
- Remanufactured engine: $2,200–$4,000
These ranges reflect current market pricing for the part only, before installation labor. Pricing varies based on mileage, condition, and regional availability.
Our Warranty
Every transmission and engine sold through expediaparts.com comes with a warranty. We stand behind what we sell because we know you're counting on this repair to last. Warranty terms vary by part type — contact us directly at expediaparts.com for the specific coverage that applies to your order.
Is Replacement the Right Move?
For the 1.5L EcoBoost coolant intrusion, the answer depends on your recall status. Check your VIN first — if you qualify, Ford covers the short block replacement. If you've already had the failure and the vehicle is out of recall scope, a remanufactured engine is a strong long-term investment for an otherwise solid platform.
For the 6F35 transmission, if you're experiencing shuddering, hard shifts, or delayed engagement, replacement is almost always more cost-effective than attempting a rebuild on a unit with known torque converter contamination. The 2017 Escape has good bones — updated suspension, a comfortable interior, solid fuel economy — and a quality replacement transmission can give it years of additional reliable service.
Ready to Get Back on the Road?
Don't let a transmission or engine failure sideline your 2017 Ford Escape any longer than necessary. At expediaparts.com, we carry used and remanufactured 6F35 transmissions and 1.5L EcoBoost engines with warranty coverage and fast shipping.
Search your part now at expediaparts.com — or give us a call and our team will help you find the right fit for your vehicle and your budget. We want to get you back on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace the 2017 Ford Escape engine or transmission?
At expediaparts.com, used transmissions typically run $800–$1,400, remanufactured transmissions $1,800–$3,200, used engines $700–$1,500, remanufactured engines $2,200–$4,000 for the 2017 Ford Escape. Final pricing depends on mileage, core charge, and shipping.
Should I buy a used or remanufactured engine or transmission for my 2017 Ford Escape?
A used unit is the lower-cost option and makes sense when the rest of your Ford Escape is in good shape. A remanufactured unit is rebuilt to spec with stronger warranty coverage and is the smarter long-term choice if you plan to keep the vehicle for years. Both are available at expediaparts.com.
Does expediaparts.com warranty Ford Escape engines and transmissions?
Yes. We back both used and remanufactured engines and transmissions with warranty coverage, and our drivetrain specialists confirm VIN fitment before you buy. We want to get you back on the road.
Related on Expedia Parts
- Warranty policy and Expedia Protection: /warranty
- Transmission fluid leaks after replacement: /blog/transmission-fluid-leaks-after-replacement
- Check engine light after engine swap: /blog/check-engine-light-after-engine-swap
- Transmission slip and shudder after replacement: /blog/transmission-slip-and-shudder-after-replacement
- Torque converter shudder vs bad transmission: /blog/torque-converter-shudder-vs-bad-transmission
- Engine misfire after replacement: /blog/engine-misfire-after-replacement
