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For the record, you’ve been warned. Finding information about used cars can be challenging sometimes. So, I’m bringing some research straight to your screen. Check out why one mechanic suggests avoiding this popular Ford SUV. 

A seasoned mechanic shares red flags on Ford SUV 

Sherwood Cooke Jr. is a seasoned mechanic who owns Royalty Auto Service and has multiple locations in Georgia. 

As a result, he’s personally seen tons of SUVs come through his shop doors. He shared that drivers should absolutely not buy one popular Ford SUV, which is the Ford Escape. 

He has mentioned avoiding things like the Ford Bronco Sport and Jeep Wrangler, but today it’s all about the Escape. 

Sherwood and his team rank vehicles by how often they enter the shop. Some owners agreed with him and shared their experiences. 

One response shared that as an Escape owner, they have had two transmission replacements in three years. Another needed a new transmission, motor, and suspension system. 

Basically, Sherwood recommends the Escape because drivers need to think about vehicles that are going to last if they plan to keep something long-term. Some SUVs have a shorter track record than others, even with year-over-year changes. 

@royaltyautoservice

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The 2020 Escape has a reliability rating of 76 out of 100 from J.D.Power. That’s average as scores between 70 and 80 are average while anything between 81 and 90 is above average. 

Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V is one of the SUVs that Sherwood does recommend buying. The 2020 CR-V has a reliability rating of 84. 

The average Escape model is expected to surpass 200,000 miles. With proper care and regular maintenance, some can reach 300,000 miles. 

An average CR-V is expected to reach 250,000 miles with some examples surpassing 350,000 miles. It can provide extra years of service compared to the Escape. 

While this popular Ford SUV is comfortable, easy to use, and efficient, it might not be the best option for a long-term vehicle.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.