Does the Ford Escape’s Low-Reliability Score Impact the Bronco Sport?
Yikes, the 2021 Ford Escape has a pretty low predicted reliability rating from Consumer Reports. But what does it mean for its boxy twin, the Ford Bronco Sport? Both of these SUVs share the same parts, so is the Bronco Sport unreliable too?
Consumer Reports recommends avoiding the 2021 Ford Escape
According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Ford Escape isn’t exactly a reliable option. It has a predicted reliability rating of one out of five. This is the lowest score possible, and it’s below average.
Are you shocked? I am. Back in the ancient days of my youth, I had a 2004 Ford Escape that I loved. It was the classic boxy one that Ford designed to get more ladies interested in off-roading before transforming the Escape into an egg-shaped city vehicle.
Anyways, the predicted reliability rating is based on problems reported on the Consumer Reports surveys. CR sends out surveys to thousands of automobile owners, allowing them to report issues that plagued their models based on 17 potential trouble spots.
Based on the data, it looks like the 2019 Escape struggles with engine problems and body integrity problems. The 2018 Escape also faced engine issues along with electrical issues, and drive system problems. The 2017 Escape seems prone to engine problems, transmission issues, body problems, and more.
What parts do the Ford Bronco Sport and Escape share?
While the Ford Escape is designed for driving around the city, the Ford Bronco Sport is still its twin due to its shared components. However, the Bronco Sport is more geared to off-roading, thanks to its lift. But that’s OK, twins can have different hobbies.
The Escape and Bronco Sport ride on the same C2 platform and share the same standard engine. It’s a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that pumps out 177-hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. But, this engine has a history of trouble in the Escape.
The Bronco Sport has a slightly shorter wheelbase, so the Escape could provide a smoother ride. Also, the Escape is 7.8-inches longer and 3.4-inches wider, providing more space. So, the difference in these vehicles comes down to the looks and ride style. However, this fails to distract us from the engine problems.
Is the Ford Bronco Sport reliable?
Consumer Reports is still working on testing the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. They haven’t provided an overall score yet. However, they did give the Bronco Sport a predicted reliability rating of two out of five.
This score is higher than the Escape’s but still below average. CR didn’t list the potential trouble spots for the Bronco Sport yet. However, they did list a recall. On January 15, 2021, the NHSTA released a recall due to the rear-drive unit being prone to seizing, leading to the loss of power or control of the vehicle.
The rear-drive axle was at risk of seizing due to inadequate lubricant levels. Dealers will check the rear lubricant level for free and fill it to the full level. Also, axles with lubricant below the minimum fill level will be replaced.
