Ford Escape Lemon Law

Yes, the 1.5L EcoBoost coolant intrusion issue is a well-documented defect affecting many Escape models. Under California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, an engine defect that risks overheating and catastrophic failure is a substantial safety impairment. If Ford has attempted to repair this issue and it recurs, or if you are told the engine needs replacement, you likely have a strong lemon law claim. Do not delay, as continued driving with this defect risks engine seizure.

A transmission control module reprogramming that fails to resolve the shudder counts as a repair attempt under the Song-Beverly Act. If the shuddering continues after additional dealer visits, you are building a case for lemon law relief. California law requires the manufacturer to either fix the defect, replace the vehicle, or refund your purchase price. Keep detailed records of each visit and note that the shudder affects driveability and safety.

Absolutely. California's Song-Beverly Act covers all defects that substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain components. A reduced propulsion warning that limits your ability to drive at highway speeds is a significant safety and usability concern. The high-voltage battery, inverter, and cooling system are all covered under the vehicle's new car warranty and are subject to lemon law protections.

Under the Song-Beverly Act, your refund includes the full purchase price, all monthly payments made, the down payment, registration fees, and incidental costs like towing and rental cars. The manufacturer may deduct a mileage offset based on miles driven before the first repair attempt for the defect. The formula divides your total price by 120,000 miles and multiplies by the mileage at first repair. A lemon law attorney can calculate your exact entitlement at no cost to you, as Ford must pay attorney fees.