Buying a car is never an easy process. There are just so many different factors to consider, from make and model, to performance and aesthetics. However, buyers rarely stop to consider one of the most important elements of a vehicle: its reliability. After all, a car can look and feel like a million dollars, but if you can’t count on it to get you from A to B, then it really isn’t worth your hard-earned money.

With a reputation for unexpected breakdowns and a history of recalls, the Ford Edge is one such unreliable vehicle. First introduced by the Ford Motor Company in 2007, the midsize SUV is now in its third generation and positioned between the Ford Escape and the Ford Explorer within the Ford product line. Despite common issues, it remains a popular choice for American drivers, with 106,098 Edges sold in the U.S. in 2023.

If you’re in the market for a new or used Ford Edge, let’s go over some of the common problems you might face and the associated costs so you can make the most informed decision. And if you already own a Ford Edge, don’t worry too much: we’ll also take a look at the best ways to protect yourself from the looming threat of repair bills.

Common Reliability Issues with the Ford Edge

Looking at RepairPal data, the Ford Edge’s reliability rating is scored at 3.5/5, which is above average and ranks it 11th out of 26 midsize SUVs. Despite this, there are several common reliability issues with different Ford Edge year models, for example:

Faulty A/C Systems

Owners of 2011 Ford Edge models experienced bad issues with the AC system overheating, especially around the 120,000-mile mark. This would cause the AC to blow out hot air and not work during warmer weather, often requiring both the cooling fan and timing belt to be replaced.

Faulty Brake Boosters

Brake booster issues are very common in Ford Edge models made between 2007 and 2015, with over a thousand instances being reported by owners. Certain driving conditions could cause the development of a tear in the brake booster’s diaphragm. Over time, this tear expands, and the pedal effort to stop the vehicle increases. The official Ford recall stresses that “in all cases, the fundamental vehicle braking system remains functional,” but many customer reviews contradict that claim.

Defective Fuel Tanks

According to reports, fuel tanks in 2009-2010 Edge models were prone to rusting around the tank seam weld, resulting in leaks. Affected model vehicles were recalled.

Persistent Door Ajar Light

The 2010, 2012, and 2013 Ford Edge models often experience a fault where the door ajar light stays on even when all the doors are shut. This is caused by a faulty switch in the door latch mechanism, which can lead to battery drain and accidental door unlocking.

Clicking Noises from the Wheel Area

The 2007-2014 Edge model owners report a clicking noise from the wheel area that begins around the 75,000-mile mark. Ford vehicle technicians found nothing severely wrong with the car but suggested that replacing the plastic padding between the wheels might solve the issue.

Transmission Issues

A number of Ford Edge models have struggled with a faulty transmission. Some drivers heard clunking sounds from a transmission failure, followed by error lights on the dashboard. In a number of cases, transmission problems occurred while the car was in motion, which is extremely dangerous.

Faulty Airbags

Ford Edge models manufactured in 2016 and 2017 had malfunctioning airbags that posed a serious safety risk and prompted a recall. Complaints from owners detailed that the driver’s airbags were not fully inflated or completely detached from the assembly.

Costly Repairs Associated with Ford Edge Problems

Now that we have a better understanding of what’s likely to break down, it’s worth considering some of the more costly Ford Edge repairs. Once you know how much a trip to the auto shop might impact you financially, it could be enough to put you off altogether.

• Transmission Fluid Change: $427 to $451
• Engine Front Cover Gasket Replacement: $1,698 to $2,142
• Engine Oil Cooler Replacement: $372 to $448
• Liftgate Pulldown Motor Replacement: $436 to $459
• Fuel Injector Replacement: $391 to $475
• Air Bag Clockspring Replacement: $284 and $300

The average annual maintenance cost for a Ford Edge is $611, but this figure can increase significantly with unexpected repairs (outside of recalls). Repeated issues with electrical systems and other such components will mean regular visits to the auto shop or dealership, adding hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars to the overall cost of Ford Edge ownership.

Ford Edge Owner Complaints

Taking a look at owner reports collected on Car Complaints, we can see many are none too happy with their Ford Edge for a range of reasons:

Door Ajar Light for 2013 Ford Edge

“Same well reported problem of door ajar light staying on. Battery always going dead. Have tried several fixes but nothing has worked as a permanent solution.”
– Bryan S., Satellite Beach, FL

Engine Problems for 2011 Ford Edge

“Car suddenly would not accelerate and engine ran very rough. Wrench light came up on dash. It would stop if the car was restarted, but would randomly happen again. Throttle body had to be replaced.”
– Lori S., Avon, CT

Back Window Recall for 2016 Ford Edge

“I was driving down the road and heard a loud pop and glass breaking. When I got home I found that the back glass had shattered. I found in Canada that they had a recall for this but not in the US.”
– James B., Fort Jennings, OH

Brake Pedal/Booster Issue for 2010 Ford Edge

“I almost hit another car, had to let off the pad and hit it again and swerve into the other lane to keep from hitting another car. There needs to be a recall before someone gets killed. Was planning a trip but not going to take this car. It is far too dangerous.”
– Shelby P., Fountain Inn, SC

How Endurance Auto Protection Plans Can Help with Ford Edge Issues

Whether you own a Ford Edge — or any other unreliable vehicle for that matter — you’ll be relieved to hear there is a way you can protect yourself from the cost of unexpected component failure: an extended warranty (more accurately, a vehicle service contract) from Endurance.

While your factory warranty will certainly come in handy for the first few years of ownership, repair bills are your responsibility from the second it expires. But with America’s most trusted service contract provider watching your back, you can drive with confidence, knowing that should the worst happen, your wallet can stay safely in your pocket. We cover the vast majority of the key Ford Edge issues (like transmission and electrical problems) and give you the freedom to have repairs carried out at the certified auto shop of your choice.

Since opening our doors way back in 2006, we’ve spent the better part of two decades defending drivers across the country from the rising cost of car ownership, helping thousands of customers save serious money in that time. There’s a wide range of Endurance plans to choose from, with programs designed for casual commuters, rideshare drivers, and even high-mileage vehicle owners. Our eligibility is unrivaled, and we’re always willing to be flexible, too, so if our base plans don’t quite meet your individual needs and budget, an Endurance advisor can tailor a bespoke contract just for you.

Not only do we offer market-leading coverage, but our added benefits give you even more value for money. All Endurance plans come with 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, fuel delivery, and lockout services), rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption coverage as standard. Endurance customers can also get a year’s access to our Elite Benefits package, adding on up to four tire repairs or replacements annually, key fob replacement, up to $500 in collision discounts, and up to $1,000 in total loss protection.*

Alternatives to the Ford Edge for Reliability

If you’ve not yet purchased a Ford Edge but want something with a similar look and feel, there are other midsize and even full-size SUVs that might serve you better:

Honda Passport
Starting Price: $41,100
RepairPal Reliability Score: 4/5

The Honda Passport is super roomy and comes with a variety of Honda Sense features to keep you safe out on the road. Other features include a 280-horsepower V-6 engine, a 5,000-pound towing capacity, and a wide standard moonroof.

Nissan Pathfinder
Starting Price: $35,810
RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5

A stylish midsize SUV, the Nissan Pathfinder is impressively designed both inside and out. Its performance is great, too, with a 6000-pound towing capacity, 21/27 city and highway MPG fuel economy, and 284 horsepower.

Jeep Grand Cherokee
Starting Price: $40,130
RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5

For something a little more rugged with off-roading capabilities, take a look at the Jeep Grand Cherokee. With seven trims available, you can also choose between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, as well as V-6 or V-8 engines.

Kia Telluride
Starting Price: $35,990
RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5

Receiving rave reviews from critics, the Kia Telluride is widely considered one of the best SUVs on the market. Seating for up to eight people offers plenty of room for passengers, with the 17 standard driver safety assistance features ensuring a smooth ride every time.

Hyundai Santa Fe
Starting Price: $28,750
RepairPal Reliability Score: 4/5

A little closer to a crossover than an SUV, the Hyundai Santa Fe combines impressive performance with high-tech safety features. There are multiple options to choose from, including a hybrid selection, with the fastest engine boasting 277 horsepower.

Dodge Durango
Starting Price: $41,000
RepairPal Reliability Score: 3.5/5

A performance powerhouse with a little something for everybody, the Dodge Durango comes in eight trims and has heaps of room for both passengers and cargo. Towing capacity is up to 8,700 pounds, blind-spot warnings are included as standard, and infotainment features a 10.1 inch touchscreen display.

Drive Confident With America’s Best Extended Auto Protection

Owning an unreliable vehicle isn’t an ideal situation, but extended auto protection from Endurance can help you keep potential repair costs to a minimum. If you want to find out more about what we can do to protect you and your car, get in touch with an Endurance advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote online. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing now.

Plus, our extended warranty blog has articles on DIY maintenance, vehicle recommendations, and much more for anyone who’d like to do some more reading.