2021 Ford Escape SEL FHEV

VIN: 1FMCU0CZ8MUA54278  |  2021  |  Ford Motor Company  |  LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)

2021 Ford Escape SEL FHEV — 2.5L 4 Cyl, 4x2, CVT / Automatic (inferred). Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].

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D 43/100

Safety & Recall Score: Caution

This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →

Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.

⚠ 20 recall campaigns (very high) ⚠ 360 owner complaints (high) ✓ VIN fully verified
🔢

VIN Decoded

VIN Verified
  • Official VIN decode record located
  • Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
  • Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
  • Plant: LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
⚠

NHTSA Recalls

20 Recall Campaigns
  • Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 Escape...
  • Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape,...
  • Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco...
💬

Owner Complaints

360 filed with NHTSA
  • The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact...
  • The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact...
⛽

Fuel Economy

26 MPG Combined
  • City: 23 MPG
  • Hwy: 31 MPG
  • Combined: 26 MPG
  • Fuel: Gasoline (Hybrid)

Vehicle Overview

VIN 1FMCU0CZ8MUA54278 Model Year 2021
Make Ford Model Escape
Trim SEL FHEV
Body Style Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV] Vehicle Type MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors 4 Seats 5
Seat Rows 2 Drive Type 4x2
Fuel Type Gasoline (Hybrid) Transmission CVT / Automatic (inferred)
Engine 2.5L 4 Cyl Manufacturer Ford Motor Company
Plant Location LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA) Country of Origin UNITED STATES (USA)

VIN Breakdown

Position 1 — WMI Region 1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer F → Ford Motor Company
Position 3 — Vehicle Type M → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor CU0CZ → Escape SEL FHEV
Position 9 — Check Digit 8 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year M → 2021
Position 11 — Plant Code U → LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial A54278 → Production sequence

Engine & Powertrain

Engine Model HEV/PHEV Engine Manufacturer Ford
Cylinders 4 Cyl Displacement 2.5 L
Displacement CC 2500.0 Displacement CI 152.55936023683
Engine Config In-Line
Drive Type 4x2 Electrification Strong HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Fuel Type Primary Gasoline Fuel Type Secondary Electric

Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact

Fuel Type Gasoline Secondary Fuel Electric
Combined MPG 26 MPG
City MPG 23 MPG Hwy MPG 31 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost $2,450 5-Yr Fuel Cost $12,250
GHG Score 5/10
CO₂ Emissions 342 g/mi Barrels/Year 11.44

EV & Battery System

Electrification Strong HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Annual Cost $2,450

Safety & Driver Assistance

ABS Included ESC Included
Traction Control Included TPMS Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn Included Lane Departure Warning Included
Lane Keep System Included Blind Spot Monitoring Included
Blind Spot Intervention Not reported in manufacturer data Rear Cross Traffic Alert Included
Adaptive Cruise Control Not reported in manufacturer data Parking Assist Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support Not reported in manufacturer data Pedestrian AEB Included
Rear Auto Braking Not reported in manufacturer data Auto Reverse System Included
Daytime Running Lights Included Adaptive Driving Beam Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition Included Auto High Beams Included
Front Airbags 1st Row (Driver and Passenger) Side Airbags 1st and 2nd and 3rd Rows
Curtain Airbags Not reported in manufacturer data Knee Airbags Driver Seat Only
Seat Belt Type Manual Pretensioner Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System Hydraulic Steering Location Left-Hand Drive (LHD)

Vehicle Dimensions & Weight

Curb Weight 3,909 lbs
GVWR Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg) Doors 4

Towing & Utility

GVWR Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Axles 2
Drive Type 4x2

Wheels & Tires

TPMS Standard (Federal Req.)
🔍 Find tires for this 2021 FORD Escape →

Manufacturing & Identity

Manufacturer Ford Motor Company Manufacturer ID 976
Make ID 460 Model ID 1798
Plant City LOUISVILLE
Plant State KENTUCKY Plant Country UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor 1FMCU0CZ*MU GVWR Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Recall & Safety Summary

Total Recalls 20 Recall Status Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns 20 recall campaigns identified VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Ford dealer. ABS Included
ESC Included Traction Control Included

✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist

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Estimated Market Value

Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions

Market estimate
$19,100–$25,300

Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.

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Overall Rating 5 Stars Front Crash Rating 5 Stars
Side Crash Rating 5 Stars Rollover Risk 4 Stars
21V869000 Oct 11, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling one 2021 Escape vehicle equipped with a 2.5L hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.

Risk: A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: A dealer will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. The owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford...

21V625000 Oct 8, 2021

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles. The fuel delivery module may leak inside the fuel tank, causing low fuel pressure which could result in an engine stall.

Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. Interim notification letters (remedy not available) were mailed on September 30, 2021. Owner notification...

21V922000 Nov 23, 2021

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

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...

Risk: During certain situations, the driver may have to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended,...

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...

22V149000 Nov 3, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Corsair and 2021-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with a 2.5L Hybrid powertrain. The high voltage battery may fail, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.

Risk: A sudden loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the high voltage battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service...

22V191000 Mar 25, 2022

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2022 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. The engine oil separator housing may crack and develop an oil leak.

Risk: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks, and replace the oil separator and seals, as necessary, free of charge. Owner...

22V484000 Jul 7, 2022

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair, and 2022 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the...

Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in...

22V859000 Nov 18, 2022

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control software to include fuel injector leak detection and install a drain tube, free of charge. Interim owner notification...

23V380000 May 26, 2023

ENGINE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2022-2023 Maverick, and 2021-2023 Corsair vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine...

Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in...

24V330000 Oct 5, 2024

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software may cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly, causing a loss of drive power.

Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the HPCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 22, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at...

24V852000 Aug 11, 2024

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply...

Risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a...

Remedy: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service...

24V954000 Dec 20, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM)

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.

Risk: Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a...

Remedy: Owners are advised not to charge battery till the remedy has been completed. Dealers will perform a battery energy control module (BECM) software update,...

25V165000 Mar 14, 2025

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2021-2023 Bronco Sport vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 22V-859 or 24V-187. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford...

25V345000 May 23, 2025

ENGINE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Escape, 2021-2023 Corsair, and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines that were repaired incorrectly under recall 23V380. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel...

Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in...

25V442000 Jun 27, 2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024...

Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed...

Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service...

25V467000 Nov 7, 2025

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. A fuel injector may crack and leak fuel inside the engine compartment.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update the engine control software. In addition, dealers will replace the high-pressure fuel rail assembly and fuel injectors, free of charge. As...

25V685000 Oct 10, 2025

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing...

Risk: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge....

25V829000 Jan 12, 2025

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape and 2025 Escape vehicles. The liftgate hinge covers may not be properly secured and detach from the vehicle.

Risk: A detached liftgate hinge cover can create a distraction or a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall, or replace any missing liftgate hinge covers as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3,...

26V117000 Mar 3, 2026

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.

Risk: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed...

26V123000 Mar 3, 2026

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in...

Risk: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact...

22V109000 Feb 24, 2022

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Escape Hybrid vehicles. The engine crankshaft may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.

Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the crankshaft and replace the engine, as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected...

View All on NHTSA.gov →
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.

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🔧 Service & Parts for this 2021 Ford Escape
$2,450/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr) $12,250
Maintenance (5yr) $7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA) $12,250
Depreciation (5yr est.) $11,385

⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator

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ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN 10/22/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact...

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure...

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY 10/21/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact...

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the windshield wipers became inoperable. The contact stated that while driving,...

POWER TRAIN 10/20/2026

The transmission stopped working while driving in a thunderstorm...

The transmission stopped working while driving in a thunderstorm in the middle of a busy intersection. These created a dangerous safety situation which was luckily avoided by the...

VISIBILITY/WIPER 10/02/2026

Issue Date: 2026-03-05 Campaign: 26C11/26V123 On my vehicle, it...

Issue Date: 2026-03-05 Campaign: 26C11/26V123 On my vehicle, it may be possible to have the SYNC screen image on the center display flipped or inverted immediately after an...

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE 09/26/2026

Description of Defect & Safety Risk: Complete structural failure...

Description of Defect & Safety Risk: Complete structural failure and collapse of the entire 3-part powertrain mounting system (right engine mount, left automatic transmission mount and rear lower...

VISIBILITY/WIPER 09/25/2026

The front windshield wiper motor in my vehicle may...

The front windshield wiper motor in my vehicle may become non-functional or operate sporadically, according to the recall notification dated March 3, 2026. Presently, necessary replacement components are...

VISIBILITY 09/23/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact...

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V117000 (Visibility); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet...

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 09/22/2026

My vehicle has experienced repeated transmission failures requiring major...

My vehicle has experienced repeated transmission failures requiring major repairs. During diagnosis, the dealership reported excessive transmission material and missing friction material inside the transmission for second time....

Showing 8 of 360 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Ford recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Soon
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Soon
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Current
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded

This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.

Estimated depreciation for this 2021 FORD Escape based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.

Now
$22,200
+1 yr
$19,500
-12%
+2 yr
$17,300
-22%
+3 yr
$15,100
-32%

Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.

Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.

Insurance
$2,450/yr
27%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
17%
Fuel/Energy
$2,450/yr
27%
Depreciation
$2,277/yr
26%
Registration
$250/yr
3%
Estimated Total Annual Cost $8,927/yr

National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.

6.8
/ 10
Rank #13 overall
42 issues / 100 vehicles
Ford Reliability

Ford reliability is mixed. Trucks and V8 Mustangs score well; some EcoBoost engines and electronics have higher complaint rates.

General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.

Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.

Oct 11, 2021
Oct 8, 2021
Nov 23, 2021
Nov 3, 2022
Mar 25, 2022
Jul 7, 2022
Nov 18, 2022
May 26, 2023
Oct 5, 2024
Aug 11, 2024
Dec 20, 2024
Mar 14, 2025
May 23, 2025
Jun 27, 2025
Nov 7, 2025
Oct 10, 2025
Jan 12, 2025
Mar 3, 2026
Mar 3, 2026
Feb 24, 2022
Verify Repairs at NHTSA.gov →

Vehicles in a similar class to the 2021 FORD Escape and their approximate current price range:

Toyota RAV4
$28k-$40k
TSP+ Research →
Honda CR-V
$30k-$38k
TSP+ Research →
Mazda CX-5
$29k-$38k
TSP+ Research →
Private Party
$16,800–$23,300
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$20,100–$27,800
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$20,600–$29,100
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip: This vehicle model has 20 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.

Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.

✓ Check digit (position 9) validates
✓ VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓ No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓ Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓ Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓ Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
Run Free NICB Theft Check →
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires

Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.

❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Ford Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
May still be covered
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
May still be covered
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Ford dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Get Quote →
Endurance
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
Get Quote →
AUTOPOM!
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Get Quote →

Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2021 FORD Escape.

Steps to get the best price when selling this 2021 FORD Escape:

📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
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⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 20 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
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No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 360 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
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VIN 1FMCU0CZ8MUA54278: 20 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.

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Estimated national average for this vehicle: $2,450/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
What does VIN 1FMCU0CZ8MUA54278 decode to? +
VIN 1FMCU0CZ8MUA54278 decodes to a 2021 FORD Escape SEL FHEV, assembled in LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2021 FORD Escape have? +
NHTSA shows 20 recall campaigns associated with the 2021 FORD Escape. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a FORD dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2021 FORD Escape with recall campaigns on file? +
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a FORD dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2021 FORD Escape? +
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2021 FORD Escape SEL FHEV is estimated at $19,100–$25,300. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free? +
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2021 FORD Escape get? +
According to EPA data, the 2021 FORD Escape gets approximately 26 MPG combined (23 city / 31 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,450.

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