2020 Ford Ecosport Fuel system Problems

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.

NHTSA ID

11748321

Incident

Apr 3, 2026

My 2020 Ford EcoSport (1.0L EcoBoost) is covered by Recall 23S64 / NHTSA 23V905 (engine oil pump drive belt). The defect causes sudden loss of motive power at highway speed (65+ mph), usually after 40+ minutes of driving, with the powertrain warning light and code P0299 (turbo underboost). Losing power in Los Angeles freeway traffic is the safety hazard. The recall remedy has failed repeatedly. In Oct 2025 the dealer tore down the engine, confirmed the oil pump belt had disintegrated and clogged the oil pickup, and replaced the complete engine (long block) under the recall in Dec 2025. The recall now shows as completed for this vehicle, but since that repair, with under 500 miles driven: (1) the turbocharger failed again and was replaced under warranty in Feb 2026, about 77 miles after the new engine; (2) in Apr 2026 the dealer found a cracked valve cover leaking oil into cylinder 3 (codes P0313, P0299); (3) on May 23, 2026 I picked the car up and the same power-loss condition returned THE SAME DAY - the dealer then found a loose air charge pipe; (4) on Jun 20, 2026 I picked the car up again and it failed THE SAME DAY. Both same-day failures are corroborated by round-trip rideshare receipts. The vehicle has been at the dealer since Jun 20, 2026, and the service advisor has not answered my written requests for diagnosis or coverage for over a week. Before the recall was confirmed, the same defect caused repeated repairs from Jun 2024 on (13 shop visits, 9 to Ford dealers). In Aug 2025 Ford's own technical hotline directed an engine teardown to find the root cause; the dealer advisor declined it. The remedy under Recall 23S64 has not remedied the defect: the recall-replaced engine has failed component by component within 500 miles and the vehicle remains out of service. All components are available for inspection at the dealer. Full repair orders, invoices, and dated records are available on request.

NHTSA ID

11748099

Incident

Jun 20, 2026

Fuel injectors, hand brake when reversing, spuddering when push on gas, windshield crack when cleaning from the inside accidently hit rear view mirror.

NHTSA ID

11745387

Incident

Oct 16, 2025

Vehicle experienced sudden severe loss of motive power consistent with Ford Safety Recall 23S64 (NHTSA Campaign 23V905000). Prior to repair, the vehicle entered limp mode and could not accelerate beyond approximately 30 to 35 MPH. Low oil pressure warning indicators and check engine light illuminated repeatedly. Engine produced abnormal grinding and strained startup noises. Vehicle also experienced hesitation, shaking, and difficulty maintaining safe roadway speeds. While I was trying stop at a red light the vehicle struggles to brake although the brakes are applied, after coming to a full stop the vehicle shutdowns and would have restart. During operation, vehicle struggled to accelerate in traffic and braking performance became concerning due to severe engine power loss and unstable operation. On multiple occasions, the engine nearly stalled or shut down completely after stopping at intersections. Vehicle was delivered to Ford dealership for Recall 23S64 repair. Dealer completed the recall repair and stated oil pressure had been restored; however, the vehicle continued exhibiting the same severe loss of power and limp mode symptoms after completion of the recall procedure. Dealer later performed additional diagnostics and identified DTC P0087 (Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low) and a broken intake camshaft requiring major engine repairs estimated at approximately $9,000. Dealer stated the engine damage was not covered or related under the recall despite the vehicle originally presenting with the same low oil pressure, loss of motive power, and drivability symptoms described in Recall 23S64. Vehicle remains unsafe to operate due to unresolved loss of power and internal engine damage. Concern exists that the recall related oil pressure failure may have caused consequential internal engine damage that was not fully corrected by the recall repair procedure. Problem has been confirmed by authorized Ford dealership inspection and diagnostic testing.

NHTSA ID

11739634

Incident

Mar 28, 2026

I was on my way home from work approaching a red light coasting to a stop, I tried to slow down then I realized the car was accelerating and I pushed the brakes and pulled into a parking lot by the time I got in the parking lot the car was surging, really trying to takeoff. It went all the way to 5,000 rpm’s while I was in park.

NHTSA ID

11736528

Incident

May 4, 2026

My light engine comes on a few times. First it was the coolant, then the engine light came off. The next is when I was fueling my gas tank. I try to start it, it won’t turn on all the way. Third time it has happen. Went to ford they want to charge almost $900 just to fixed the vehicle. It had a recall in 2020. Bought the car used at Crain in Fayetteville Arkansas. They fix the belt and fuel pump. After they got it fixed I’ve been having the light engine comes on constantly. Now I’m stuck with no vehicle because I don’t feel safe driving it. 12/15/2025 the first engine light came on. For a coolant, then 1/24/2026 light came back on. For another coolant code, they check it and they said my coolant was fine. 3/04/2026 service engine soon alert is on because an issue has been detected with your vehicles’ s emissions system. 3/11/2026 service engine soon alert is on because an issue has been detected with your vehicles’ s emissions system. 3/12/2026 The Engine system has detected a fault. 3/12/2026. Came back on The Engine system has detected a fault. 3/20/2026 Your service engine soon alert is on because an issue has been detected with your vehicles’ s emissions system. I took it the shop on the 3/27/2026 They put a diagnosis on the computer The code came for P0496 EVAP System High Purge Flow 02 Sensor Signal Biased/Stuck Rich - Bank 1, Sensor 1 ABS Anti-lock Brake System U0155-00 Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster They said it wasn’t part of the 80,000 warranty for the federal law. I’ve done research and it came up on the same code I got. So now they want almost $900 dollars with a $250 dollar diagnostic when I’ve already told them we went to auto part to get the code. They had to hook it up again to see if it’s the same code.

NHTSA ID

11728678

Incident

Jan 14, 2026

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)

NHTSA ID

11727714

Incident

Dec 28, 2025

On March 13, 2025, while driving, my 2020 Ford EcoSport suddenly lost power and shut down. The vehicle is under Recall 23S64 (oil pump failure). I had to tow it to a shop, which confirmed low oil pressure, then to Ford, who confirmed complete engine failure and replaced the engine parts. I was without a vehicle for 34 days and Ford refused to provide a rental unless it was a Ford-brand, which was unavailable. After the engine replacement, further issues occurred: check engine light, battery failure, overheating, coolant leaks, and multiple installation errors including a missing coolant line bracket (causing leaks), cross-threaded turbo-to-cat converter stud, missing splash shield, and broken overflow line. Repairs cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket. On May 13, 2025, a new recall was issued on the replacement engine, meaning my car remains unsafe despite the prior recall fix. These failures created unsafe driving conditions (loss of power on the road, overheating, potential engine fire risk). The problems have been confirmed by both Ford and an independent certified shop.

NHTSA ID

11682715

Incident

Mar 13, 2025

THIS RECALL BEING UNABLE TO BE COMPLETED IS CAUSING DAMAGE TO MY ENGINE AND RESTRICTING MY DRIVING. I CAN NOT EVEN MAKE IT HOME FROM WORK WITH OUT THE CAR TRYING TO STOP, TEMP IS WAY UP AND OIL PREASSURE DROPS. ARIZONA'S HOT WEATHER INCREASES THIS ISSUE. PART WERE PROMISED FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR.

NHTSA ID

11666791

Incident

May 15, 2025

The low engine oil pressure light was flashing, and the car would not drive any faster than 40 mph. By the time I got home the brakes were extremely hard to push so I had to use emergency brake to stop. My engine was seized. Ford had my vehicle from November 13, 2024-January 29, 2025. The dealership told me they replaced my engine, and over time this will happen again. I don’t feel safe driving long distances and I just had to replace the brakes costing $578. The car only has 67,000 miles on it and when I bought it, there was 40,000 miles on it.

NHTSA ID

11647801

Incident

Nov 13, 2024

-The oil pump failed while I was driving on the interstate. My vehicle suddenly lost power without warning. There was moderate traffic, and I almost did not make it to the shoulder in time, having to swerve around vehicles. -My vehicle was towed to a Ford Dealership and their service department told me "The engine tore itself apart from the inside" and that repairs would be "About $7000". From there it was towed to my driveway. It has been sitting in my driveway since July 2023. I've been forced to continue making payments on it this entire time. -I attempted to have the recall repair scheduled three times at a Ford dealership, but each attempt failed: *December 2024 (in-person visit): I was turned away and told to schedule later. *January 2025 (phone call): Provided my information, but never received a follow-up. *February 2025 (online service request): Ford never responded. ---Because of Ford’s lack of response, the issue has not been officially confirmed by a dealer, but it matches the symptoms of the oil pump recall (which affects my VIN). -No, the vehicle has not been inspected because Ford has refused to schedule an appointment despite multiple attempts. -No, there were no warning lights, messages, or prior symptoms before the failure. The vehicle suddenly lost power without any prior indication, which made the situation even more dangerous.

NHTSA ID

11645812

Incident

Jul 10, 2023

I broke down in the middle of nowhere while roadtripping. My engine fuel pressure light came on. The closet Ford was an hour away. 20 mins in my engine started making a horrible sound. I had to pay to get myself and it towed the rest of the way. After being diagnosed by the dealership, the recall of the oil fuel pump/belt completely failed and went through my engine. If I had continued driving my engine would have seized. I now need a whole new engine in which Ford said will take a minimum of a month before my car will be fixed. up until this point I always took care of routine maintenance and oil changes even having my whole car completed inspected last month. There were no warnings once so ever up until the actual moment the part was failing and the warning came up on my dash.

NHTSA ID

11629763

Incident

Dec 3, 2024

The catalytic converter had to be replaced twice due to a cracked in it and the exhaust fumes keep coming into the vehicle’s cabin through the A/C. Transmission keeps having problems also.

NHTSA ID

11625736

Incident

May 5, 2023

On [XXX] @ 8:45 pm my vehicle was at a stop light. I started to go forward and hill assist start notification came up as vehicle turned back on from sitting idle due to the ecosport design. As slowly accelerating the wrench icon came on, check engine light came on. Vehicle lost power and speed dropped to less than 5 miles an hour. I had to floor the gas pedal to get enough speed to switch lanes and get off the road safely. I had to pay to have the vehicle towed to a dealership. This all occurs after the following previous events. On 6/25/24 my Vehicle was serviced for sporadic check engine lights that would come and go quickly. The dealership had some reprogramming done, an oil change, and a a transmission inspection. Stated all good and the vehicle was returned on Friday, June 28th. Back in April 2024 the vehicle had a similar situation with loss of power and similar warning lights. The engine was replaced due to total failure of the engine oil pump belt. This occurring when transitioning on a ramp from one highway to another. Another dangerous situation. This vehicle is not safe. I have been in the vehicle both times with [XXX] . Two major events in less than 3 months. I anticipate another total engine loss. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11597773

Incident

Jun 29, 2024

Low oil pressure sensor came on., Took car to get oil changed thinking that would be a quick fix. The car continue to drive rough making a loud knocking sound. Checking engine light, oil light and tool bar light were now on. Took it back to mechanic they said I had 2 camshaft sensors that need replaced. Got the sensors replaced , car did not seem any better. Took it back to mechanic and as I was driving the car lost total power and brakes failed. Mechanic put it on machine and then said the engine and turbo was blown.

NHTSA ID

11584661

Incident

Mar 27, 2024

Low engine oil pressure fuel pump

NHTSA ID

11575911

Incident

Mar 5, 2024

My car loses the power and stopped suddenly. Fortunately the car behind me took the other line quickly. ( check engin light and key tool light were on). I was trying to start it . It start but checking until stops. After a while it start and I tried to go max 20 miles/hours until I was home and parks the car till now. This was 2 days ago. And as I work uber I am not working . I do have appointment tomorrow with my dealer to see what they can do

NHTSA ID

11572376

Incident

Feb 14, 2024

Vehicle had oil change prior to oil change date/miles, drove vehicle less than 2 miles away from Oil shop. low oil pressure light turned on. Was unable to drive it back home. Was taken to ford dealership and was notified I need a new engine due to "metal shavings found in engine"

NHTSA ID

11551513

Incident

Oct 13, 2023

Loss of engine oil pressure at highway speed causing engine and turbo failure. Vehicle is being repaired at dealer under warranty but it has been months and I’ve had no assistance with a vehicle replacement

NHTSA ID

11547900

Incident

Aug 26, 2023

While driving it’s dropping rpm’s. It feels like it’s going in and out of gear while driving and even does it in cruse. While switching gears on take off it jerks each gear like it’s struggling. Rpm’s jump 500/1000 all the time even at idol.

NHTSA ID

11546740

Incident

Sep 27, 2023

Almost a year ago while driving the car it would just cut off. I took it to Ford and they stated I needed a new valve. I got the car repaired it was about 450$. Months later the car begin to do the same thing again and it cut off on me while turning onto a street. That time it would not restart and I got it towed. After getting it fixed again like 2 months later the car started to knock after I got my oil change. Took it to a mechanic and they said the oil wasn’t coming all the way up. I took the car to Ford and they said I would need a new engine because at some point my fuel pump started going out without me knowing. Ford expects me to pay 7000$ for a new engine on a 2020 car that I’m still paying a car note on.

NHTSA ID

11546210

Incident

Aug 6, 2023

I purchased the 2020 Ford Ecosport in July 2022 from bulter Ford in milledgville ga I have been having problems with the car barely pulling up a hill when driving and I can feel the car jerking while driving feeling like it's going to cut off in the road I have been to the bulter shop 5 times and nothing is working it is still doing the same thing they say they can't find anything wrong I have not had a good ride out of the 8 month I have had the car I need help

NHTSA ID

11524523

Incident

Aug 10, 2022

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Ecosport. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated while accelerating. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor was cleaned and the air filter was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 21,550.

NHTSA ID

11522034

Incident

May 12, 2023

Mileage

21,550 mi

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.

NHTSA ID

11518869

Incident

May 29, 2022