Owners of Ford Escape, Maverick, and Lincoln Corsair are pursuing legal action against Ford due to an alleged defect that may result in engine failure and a fire risk.
It’s alleged that Ford manufactured and sold Escape, Maverick, and Corsair vehicles with faulty 2.5 liter engines that are prone to a “block breach” or more commonly referred to as a blown engine. The defect leads to stalling, engine failure, and potential fire risks.
However, despite knowing these risks, Ford delayed a safety recall and proposed an ineffective solution, which involved modifications that didn’t address the engine defect.
Their fix didn’t prevent catastrophic engine failure, but instead introduced new safety and environmental concerns. Owners claim that Ford has yet to offer a comprehensive solution, which has resulted in this lawsuit.
Let’s delve into the issues surrounding the Ford 2.5-liter engine. We’ll cover all the essential details and determine whether vehicle owners should be concerned.
Ford 2.5 Engine Problems Explained
Ford Motor Company sold several 2020-2023 Ford Escape, 2022-2023 Ford Maverick and 2021-2023 Lincoln Corsair which contain 2.5 Liter engines with a significant flaw. This flaw, which is mechanical, could result in what Ford euphemistically termed a “block breach.”
Block breach isn’t a wildly known term in the automotive world. However in simpler terms, it stands for catastrophic engine damage.
The alleged defect could potentially shoot the connecting rod and/or bearings through the engine block. When this happens, highly flammable fluids and vapors can escape. These fluids have the potential to land on extremely hot surfaces, igniting an engine fire.
Ford Assured Owners Safety Recall Resolved The 2.5 Engine Problems
Back in March 2022, Ford initiated Safety Recall 22S10 for a select group of 2021 Ford Escapes with the 2.5L engine. The identified issue — an improper crankshaft machining surface was the cause of the “block breach.”
For this recall, dealers were instructed to inspect the connecting rod bearings and replace the engine if necessary. Adopting this approach for the current defect would effectively identify which of the over 125,000 vehicles possess the faulty engine.
Yet, Escape, Maverick, and Corsair owners claim Ford is reluctant to conduct comprehensive inspections for all recalled vehicles. Instead, it appears Ford might be prioritizing cost savings over the safety of its 125,000 customers.
Owners Allege Ford Knew About 2.5 Engine Defect
Despite being aware of this issue, or at least being in a position where they ought to have known, Ford did not immediately alert vehicle owners. They waited more than a year before initiating a safety recall.
Making matters worst, Ford promised a solution to the fire hazard but it did not involve inspecting engines to identify the specific cars with the defect. Nor did they offer a genuine solution for the faulty engine itself.
Instead, their solution involved removing Active Grille Shutter Blinds and drilling holes in the under-engine shield to decrease the likelihood of a fire from the leaking fluids and vapors.
Simply put, drilling holes in the under-engine shield allows potentially flammable fluids to drain out of the engine bay, rather than pool onto hot engine surfaces.
While Ford has admitted its recall did not work, it has yet to announce a fix. Understandably, this leaves owners concerned for their safety.
Where Are The Active Grille Shutters Located?
The Ford Active Grille Shutters are located on the front of the vehicle grill. They help reduce aerodynamic drag and improve engine cooling by opening and closing automatically when needed.
However, owners claim the removal of the active grille shutters will allow more road debris, water, salt and snow into the engine compartment. Also, it is believed that the removal of the active grille shutters also reduces fuel economy.
The long term effects of modification may mean higher fuel expenses and potentially decrease durability.
It is still yet unknown why Ford mechanics were instructed to remove the shutters in the first place. However, presumably the shutters were designed to perform a function, such as providing airflow to the engine bay. Removing the shutters may compromise that function.
Ford Offers No Reimbursement
To date, Ford has not provided compensation to owners and lessees for any out-of-pocket costs, diminished utility, or reduced value.
Since there hasn’t been a genuine fix for the 2.5L HEV/PHEV engines, potential class members are left with vehicles that have compromised Active Grill Shutter Systems and damaged engine shields.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Engine Problems With Your Escape, Maverick, or Corsair?
Owners are urged to promptly park and turn off the engine if they detect unusual engine sounds, experience a decrease in vehicle performance, or observe smoke.
Ford Models Affected
The following Ford and Lincoln models are affected by this alleged defect:
Status of the Ford 2.5 Engine Problems Class Action Litigation
This is an active class action lawsuit.
Todd Nishon, et al. v. Ford Motor Co. case number 2:23-cv-11972-LVP-EAS, in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Questions About This Lawsuit?
MyCarVoice.com is not counsel or the settlement administrator in this class action lawsuit. Our goal is to inform owners of these vehicles of the recent lawsuit. This post will be updated when/if new suit information is released.
Please considering subscribing to this post for critical updates.
Are you driving a 2020-2023 Ford Escape, 2022-2023 Ford Maverick and 2021-2023 Lincoln Corsair and having problems with the 2.5 liter engine in your car? If so, add your voice to this post in the comments below.
Add your car complaint for review
Managing Editor
Christopher is an automotive technical writer. When he’s not at the local autocross event, he can often be found working on one of his cars. Specializes in automotive class action law, industry trends, and automotive maintenance. Email me direct, or learn more about us
