The problem
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from October 5, 2011, through August 31, 2012, equipped with 1.6L engines. The cylinder head cup plug (freeze plug) may become dislodged resulting in significant loss of engine coolant.
The risk
As leaking engine coolant evaporates on the hot engine, the glycol may ignite causing an engine compartment fire.
The fix
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will seal the existing plug and add a secondary plug cover, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 11, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-431 (12V431000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 12S39 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling |
| Report date | September 4, 2012 |
| Owners notified | September 11, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 6,146 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-431 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will seal the existing plug and add a secondary plug cover, free of charge. The safety recall began on September 11, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 6,146 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.