VehicleVerdict

2021 Ford Escape brakes problems

The 2021 Ford Escape has 49 brakes complaints filed with NHTSA — 11% of the year's total, and roughly flat versus the prior model year.

49

Brakes complaints

11%

Share of year

6

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Brakes complaints by year

Related recalls

21V922000BrakesNovember 23, 2021 · 114,666 units

Defect

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles. The rear brake linings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can affect braking performance. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Consequence

During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the front brake pads, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C31.

What owners report

Wife was driving vehicle. Came to intersection at end of our street. Applied brakes. Brakes did not work. Went through intersection crashed into tree. Injured, taken to hospital, vehicle towed, police report made. Vehicle is available for inspection. Would like to have vehicle inspected! Not yet…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Brakes · December 11, 2021 · crash

Common questions

How many brakes complaints does the 2021 Ford Escape have?

NHTSA has 49 complaints about the 2021 Ford Escape brakes — 11% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2021 Ford Escape brakes?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the brakes: 21V922000.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.