Since the first Model T was introduced in 1908, Ford Motor Company has become one of the most well recognized automotive brands on the road today. From the Ford Explorer to the Focus, Bronco, Escape, or the anticipated Maverick, it’s hard to argue the popularity of this decade-old company. The legendary Ford F-150 truck is regularly ranked as the top-selling vehicle in the U.S., leading all vehicle sales with 534,821 units sold in 2021 and 787,422 in 2020. These numbers could have been even higher in 2021; however, the ongoing microchip shortage has impacted overall automotive production and sales.

Despite their iconic status in the automotive world, every vehicle manufacturer, including Ford, has its costs and repairs. The cost of following a regular maintenance schedule and potential repair bills can factor into the overall price of any vehicle. Ford vehicles rank 21st out of 32 car brands in overall reliability, so understanding and identifying potential issues can help you save when it comes to costly repair bills in the future.

To help prepare you for your next new or used vehicle, here are some of the most common repairs you can expect from some of the most popular Ford models.

Ford Escape

Repairs

Manufactured since 2000, the Ford Escape is one of the most recognized compact SUVs on the road today. The current model year features various trim levels, including the SEL and SE Hybrids, which feature superb gas mileage, reaching up to 44 mpg city and 37 mpg highway each.

For Escape owners, some commonly reported issues include:

• Excess Brake Wear
• Exhaust Manifold Damage
• Transmission Failure

Causes

One of the most common problems for Escape owners is in regards to their vehicle’s brakes wearing more quickly than expected. Specifically, many owners noticed that their brakes and brake pads needed repairs or replacements as early as 27,000 miles. Owners also noted their exhaust manifolds cracking or breaking apart due to high pressure caused by gas build-up in them over time. Transmission failure is another issue Ford Escape owners may face, most notably in the 2014 model year.

Save on the cost of replacing your Ford Escape’s brake pads with the help of an auto protection plan like EnduranceAdvantage^TM. Along with offering your vehicle comprehensive breakdown protection, each EnduranceAdvantage package also comes with and up to $3,500 in maintenance benefits, including a brake pad or shoe replacement.

Costs

• Brake Pad Replacements: $188 – $222
• Exhaust Manifold Repairs: $807 – $873
• Transmission Failure: $4,000+

Ford Mustang

Repairs

As one of the most well-known American muscle cars, the Mustang is also one of Ford’s best-selling models. While in production since 1964 and after undergoing several changes to its exterior design, today, the Mustang still maintains that classic sports car look that any car enthusiast can enjoy.

For Mustang owners, some of the most commonly reported issues include:

• Dashboard Lights Issues
• Suspension Issues
• Coolant Leaks
• Headlight Issues

Causes

Dashboard lights not turning on can be a common problem with many Ford models, including the Mustang. In most cases, this is caused by faulty wiring or the bulbs burning out, which you would have to replace in either case. Mustangs have also been reported to experience cracks or breaks to their front suspension system, which can be caused by heavy use over time, accidents, or even just wear and tear from driving it regularly. These issues will usually require you to replace the entire control arm for your car to drive smoothly again.

For older model-year Mustangs, headlights can burn out due to faulty wiring. Coolant leaks can occur due to faulty gaskets and seals that can crack over time. This problem usually requires fixing the entire radiator system because of excessive rust build-up.

Costs

• Electrical System Diagnosis: $88 – $211
• Suspension Shock or Strut Assembly: $648 – $692
• Headlight Bulb Replacement: $151 – $184
• Radiator Replacement: $583 – $684

Ford Fusion

Repairs

A popular mid-size sedan in the Ford lineup, the Fusion has been around since 2006 and currently comes in 5 different trim levels for the 2020 model year. Current Fusion owners commonly report issues such as:

• Engine Issues
• Power Steering Failure

Causes

More reported in the 2010 model year, many Fusion owners reported stalling or sudden loss of power to their engines. While the cause can vary, the three most common causes for engine stalling in Fusions include issues with your fuel, air intake, or ignition systems.

Loss of power steering is another commonly reported issue in Fusions, with recalls even being announced for the issue across several model years. While several factors can cause this issue, one of the most recent recalls notes that the motor assembly may detach due to corroded bolts.

Save on your Fusion’s next engine diagnostic exam with an EnduranceAdvantage auto protection plan. EnduranceAdvantage provides comprehensive breakdown protection and also comes with up to $3,500 in regular maintenance service. This includes engine diagnostic exams, oil and filter changes, and more.

Costs

• General Engine Diagnosis: $88 – $111
• Power Steering Pump Replacement: $251 – $492

Ford F-150

Repairs

Since 1948, the Ford F-150 has been, without a doubt, the most popular vehicle in America. However, despite their elite status, F-150 owners can expect potential issues such as:

• Incorrect Battery Cable Attachment
• Loss of Power While Driving
• Powertrain Issues

Causes

As recently as August 2020, many F-150’s were potentially impacted by a recall regarding an incorrectly attached nut for a battery cable. This issue can be severe, as an increased risk for fire is possible. If you are unsure if this recall impacts your F-150, you contact your local Ford dealership or visit a certified repair facility as soon as possible.

Some F-150 owners have also reported sudden losses of power while driving on some model years, as well as general powertrain issues.

Costs

• Battery Cable Replacement: $500 – $533
• General Engine Diagnosis: $88 – $111
• Powertrain Control System Diagnosis & Testing: $44 – $56

Protect Your Ford with Endurance

Whether you are purchasing a Mustang, F-150, Focus, or any other Ford model, following your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule can help you avoid potentially costly repair bills. An auto protection plan such as EnduranceAdvantage can also help give you peace of mind when it comes to your Ford’s essential maintenance. Each EnduranceAdvantage plan offers up to $3,500 in regular maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, alignment checks, and more — at no additional cost. Endurance customers will also receive 1 year of Elite Benefits like 24/7 roadside assistance, key fob replacements, and tire repairs/replacements for FREE with the purchase of any protection plan.

For more information, request a free online quote. You can also find more articles on topics such as expert auto tips, make/model comparisons, DIY maintenance, how-to’s, and more by visiting the Learning Center.