Ford Escape 2023: A Used Buyer's Guide for Eastern Ontario

A used Ford Escape 2023 can carry one of four powertrains: a 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre EcoBoost gas engine, a Hybrid or a Plug-in Hybrid. Find out which one you are looking at, confirm the engine and drive on the vehicle itself, and ask for the VIN, because several of the year's campaigns apply to one powertrain only.

On the lot, you crouch at the rocker panel with a flashlight: three winters of salted Highway 7 and gravel side roads may have reached a 2023 Escape's underside.

A used 2023 Ford Escape may have remaining factory coverage. Confirm the original in-service date, kilometres, VIN and applicable warranty terms before relying on it.

Key Takeaways

• Ford's 2023 Canadian literature lists four Escape powertrains, and only the 1.5-litre gas engine and the Hybrid appear with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Confirm the engine and drive on the vehicle itself.

  
  

• Transport Canada records campaigns for certain 2023 Escapes and no other Escape year: a digital instrument cluster that could stay blank, and a cruise control radar that may not have been aligned correctly.

  
  

• Other 2023 campaigns follow the engine, battery or equipment, so the VIN and the label under the hood decide which apply.

  
  

• Judge corrosion on the brake lines, rocker panels and underbody against Ontario's line between normal surface rust and metal that is visibly thinner.

  
  

Browse used Ford Escapes at Carleton Place Ford, then match the model year, powertrain and drive to the VIN on the one you choose.

Gas, Hybrid or Plug-in: Which Ford Escape 2023 Is This?

A Ford Escape 2023 is a gas model with a 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, a Hybrid, or a Plug-in Hybrid, and the listing title alone does not prove which. A charging port means you are looking at the Plug-in Hybrid.

Without a port, the choice is between the Hybrid and a gas Escape, so read the badge, then the engine label under the hood. That label and the VIN also tell a 1.5-litre gas engine from a 2.0-litre.

Is a 2023 Ford Escape Front-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive?

A 2023 Ford Escape can be either, depending on the powertrain. Ford's 2023 Canadian literature and Natural Resources Canada list the 1.5-litre gas engine and the Hybrid with front- or all-wheel drive, the 2.0-litre with all-wheel drive, and the Plug-in Hybrid with front-wheel drive.

Confirm the engine and drive on the vehicle itself.

For an Almonte family who wants all-wheel drive for a gravel road, a 2023 Plug-in Hybrid is not the one to shortlist.

2023 Escape powertrain	Front-wheel drive	All-wheel drive
1.5-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder	Listed	Listed
2.0-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder	Not listed	Listed
2.5-litre Hybrid	Listed	Listed
2.5-litre Plug-in Hybrid	Listed	Not listed

How Do You Tell a 2023 Escape From a 2022 or a 2024?

The 2023 Escape wears a different front end from the 2020 to 2022 Escape, and the same look carried on to 2024, so the model year on the registration or VIN, not the face, tells a 2023 from a 2024. Start with the nose, then the paperwork.

Ford's 2023 and 2024 Canadian documents list the same Escape engines and drives, so the powertrain does not separate the two years either.

If the VIN says 2024, our guide to that year's Escape covers what applies to it. If it shows an earlier Escape with the older face, our guide to the used Escape years explains how the engines and recall records differ by year.

Campaigns Transport Canada Records for the 2023 Escape Alone

Some of Transport Canada's 2023 Escape campaigns appear on no other Escape model year, and each one covers only certain vehicles. The VIN and the equipment fitted to the Escape in front of you decide whether they apply, so ask about them first.

On certain 2023 Escapes, the instrument cluster could remain blank, so warnings, tell-tales and gauges may not display, which could increase the risk of a crash. Transport Canada notes that this recall only affects vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster.

Ford notifies owners by mail, and the dealer replaces the instrument panel cluster or its module, as necessary.

On certain 2023 Escapes, the cruise control radar module may not have been aligned correctly during production. The adaptive cruise control could then falsely detect an obstacle and stop or slow the vehicle suddenly, and pre-collision assist, forward collision warning and/or automatic emergency braking may not work properly.

This recall only affects two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control, and Ford's remedy is a dealer realignment of the cruise control module radar.

Engine, Battery and Camera Campaigns on a 2023 Escape

The other campaigns on a 2023 Escape follow the powertrain or the equipment, and some also reach other Escape years. Each covers only certain vehicles, so the engine under the hood and the VIN decide which of them belong to the Escape you are considering.

If the 2023 Escape Has the 1.5-Litre or 2.0-Litre Engine

Certain 2023 Escapes with a 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre engine and a factory-installed block heater are in a campaign because the block heater could overheat when plugged in, which could create a fire risk. Until the recall repairs have been completed, Ford advises you not to plug in the engine block heater.

Ford notifies owners by mail, and removing the block heater at the dealer is one choice; the other is to wait for Ford's notice that the final repair, a new block heater element, is available. The dealer also inspects the electrical cord and replaces it if necessary.

Separately, on certain 2023 Escapes with the 1.5-litre engine, the cylinder head may not have been manufactured properly, so its plug(s) could fail and leak oil, which could cause a loss of power to the wheels and create a fire risk. The dealer inspects the cylinder head and replaces it if necessary.

If It Is a 2023 Escape Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid

Certain 2023 Escapes with the 2.5-litre hybrid or plug-in hybrid engine are in a campaign for a manufacturing problem that could lead to engine failure, which in some cases can create a fire risk. The remedy is a powertrain control module software update or an engine replacement, as necessary.

Ford recommends shutting the engine off as soon as possible if you hear unusual engine noises, see smoke from the engine compartment, or notice reduced engine power.

Certain 2023 Plug-in Hybrids are in campaigns for a problem inside the high-voltage battery that could cause a short circuit, with a possible loss of power to the wheels and/or an overheating battery. A battery that overheats can create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.

Transport Canada lists a first repair and a second one, because the first software update may not be effective.

Charging Advice for a 2023 Escape Plug-in Hybrid

Until the recall repairs have been completed, Ford advises that you set the maximum charge setting of your vehicle at 80% and only use normal EV mode. The battery energy control module software then monitors the high-voltage battery and warns you if it detects a problem; if you see that warning, contact a dealership to arrange replacement of the high-voltage battery pack.

The Rearview Camera Software Update

In reverse, the rearview camera image on certain 2023 Escapes may not display or may freeze, because of a software problem. The fix is a software update, sent over the air to eligible vehicles or done at a Ford dealership.

Before You Buy: Confirming Campaigns by VIN

Ford Canada and Transport Canada are the sources we use to verify recall information. Before you buy, ask our team to confirm the VIN and any open campaigns for the 2023 Escape in front of you.

Once the Escape is yours, you can book service at Carleton Place Ford for open Ford recall campaigns applicable to your vehicle, subject to parts availability and appointment scheduling.

How Much of Ford's Powertrain Warranty Could a 2023 Escape Have Left?

A used 2023 Ford Escape may have remaining factory coverage. Confirm the original in-service date, kilometres, VIN and applicable warranty terms before relying on it.

Ford's Canadian warranty page lists New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage of 3 years or 60,000 km and powertrain coverage of 5 years or 100,000 km, counted from the warranty start date, also called the in-service date.

A 2023 Escape first put into service three or more years ago has reached the end of the 3-year term on time alone, whatever its kilometres, so on many 2023s the question is how much of the 5-year, 100,000 km powertrain term is left.

On a Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid, the same page lists coverage for hybrid and electric unique components of 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, and Ford's warranty guide says gradual battery capacity loss is not covered.

What Highway 7 Winters Can Leave Under a 2023 Escape

Look under a used 2023 Escape at the brake lines, subframe, rocker panels and exhaust, then at the tires, because those are the parts salted highways and gravel side roads reach. Ontario's vehicle inspection standard gives you the line to judge corrosion against.

The standard calls some rust and corrosion on the outer surface of exposed metal parts normal, and says structural deterioration is possible when rust visibly reduces the thickness of the material.

Surface rust on brake lines and fittings is normal too, but heavy rust or scaling that changes a line's thickness is cause for rejection, and the side rocker-panel assembly is listed as a structural component.

Ford's seasonal maintenance advice warns that winter can be unfriendly to shocks and struts, and it suggests a brake-system inspection when snow and ice season ends, covering the lines, hoses, parking brake and fluid level.

Cold can lower tire pressure, so check it, then look for uneven or irregular tread wear and for cuts or bruises on the sidewalls.

From Listing to Hoist: Checking a Used 2023 Escape

Check a used 2023 Escape in this order: the VIN first, because it settles the model year and which campaigns apply, then the powertrain and drive on the vehicle, a test drive, a hoist and the paperwork. Each step below is something you, your mechanic or the Carleton Place Ford team can do before you sign.

1. VIN: Ask our team to check the VIN and confirm any open campaigns before you buy.

2. Powertrain and drive: Start with the charging port and the label under the hood, then confirm the engine and drive on the vehicle itself.

3. Block heater: On a gas Escape, ask whether a factory block heater is fitted and whether its campaign is done or the heater removed; until you know, leave it unplugged.

4. Plug-in Hybrid: Look over the charging cord, and ask how the battery was charged and whether its repairs are recorded.

5. Test drive: Watch the gauges and warning lights come up, try the rearview camera in reverse, and listen for unusual engine noises.

6. Hoist: Have your own mechanic check the brake lines, subframe, rocker panels, exhaust, shocks and struts.

7. Records: Ask for the maintenance receipts, which Ford's warranty guide asks owners to keep with the vehicle.

8. Disclosures: Get the seller's disclosures about this Escape on paper before you sign, and read our guide to buying from an Ontario dealer for the rules.

9. Safety certificate: Ontario describes a safety standards certificate as confirming the vehicle met minimum safety standards on its issue date, not as a warranty of the Escape's condition.

How Carleton Place Ford Appraises Your Trade

If you already drive a 2023 Escape, or any other vehicle you plan to replace, Carleton Place Ford can appraise it as a trade toward your next one. We take trades of any make, whether it is paid off or not.

Start on our value your trade page, then bring the vehicle in for the appraisal. We put our appraisal of your trade in writing.

With your permission, we get the payout from your lender and show it beside our appraisal. We buy vehicles outright, so an appraisal does not commit you to buying from us.

If you owe more than the vehicle is worth, the shortfall may be added to the amount financed, increasing the amount borrowed and potentially the total cost of borrowing. Financing is subject to lender approval (O.A.C.).

You may also cover the difference with money down. Bring the ownership, all your keys and fobs, and any service records along to the appraisal.

Applying for Financing on a Used Escape

You can finance a used Escape through Carleton Place Ford on approved credit (O.A.C.), starting from home. Apply for financing before you come in if you wish.

With your consent, we can review options with participating lenders. Approval, rate, term and payment depend on the applicant, lender and vehicle, and a credit-bureau inquiry may be required.

Bring a driver's licence and proof of income if requested; lender requirements vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2023 Ford Escape Have All-Wheel Drive?

Some 2023 Escapes do. Ford's 2023 Canadian literature lists all-wheel drive with the 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre gas engines and the Hybrid, and front-wheel drive with the 1.5-litre, the Hybrid and the Plug-in Hybrid.

Confirm the engine and drive on the vehicle itself.

Is the 2023 Ford Escape in Front of You a Hybrid or a Plug-in Hybrid?

A charging port tells you the 2023 Escape is the Plug-in Hybrid, which Natural Resources Canada defines as using a battery charged from an external source together with a gas engine. Without a port, read the badge and the engine label under the hood, because a listing title is not proof.

Which Campaigns Should You Ask About on a 2023 Ford Escape?

Start with the campaigns Transport Canada records for certain 2023 Escapes and no other year: a digital instrument cluster that could stay blank, and cruise control radar alignment on two-wheel drive vehicles with adaptive cruise control. Others depend on the powertrain and equipment.

Ask our team to check the VIN and confirm any open campaigns before you buy.

Can You Use the Block Heater on a Used 2023 Ford Escape?

Check its campaign first. Certain 2023 Escapes with a 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre engine and a factory-installed block heater could have the heater overheat when plugged in, and Ford advises not plugging it in until the recall repairs are completed.

Owners can have the dealer remove the heater or wait for the final repair once it is available.

Which Ford Warranty Terms Matter on a Used 2023 Escape?

A used 2023 Ford Escape may have remaining factory coverage. Confirm the original in-service date, kilometres, VIN and applicable warranty terms before relying on it.

Ford's Canadian warranty page lists 3 years or 60,000 km of New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage and 5 years or 100,000 km of powertrain coverage, counted from the in-service date.

How Much Rust Is Too Much Under a 2023 Escape?

Under Ontario's inspection standard, some surface rust on a 2023 Escape's exposed metal parts and brake lines is considered normal. Rust that visibly thins the material can point to structural deterioration, and heavy rust or scaling on a metal line is cause for rejection.

Check the rocker panels too.

When the Checks Agree on a Used 2023 Escape

A used 2023 Escape is ready for a yes when the model year, engine and drive match the VIN, any open campaigns are confirmed by VIN, the in-service date is known, and your mechanic has signed off on the underbody, brake lines and tires.

Pass those checks and the choice is yours: EcoBoost gas, a Hybrid with front- or all-wheel drive, or a Plug-in Hybrid, three ways to drive one 2023 Escape.

When you are ready to compare, browse used Ford Escapes at Carleton Place Ford and tell our team about the roads you drive every week.

Visit us at 10441 Hwy 7, Carleton Place, ON K7C 0T6

Browse inventory, value your trade, apply for financing (on approved credit), book service, or contact the team.

Sales: (888)-910-3538 Parts: (888)-876-1102 Service: (877)-866-8810 Local: 613-257-3988

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About the Author:

Kerry Irven is the Vice President of New and Used Automotive Operations for Heighton Automotive Group, a family-owned and operated automotive group serving communities across Eastern Ontario. Kerry began his automotive career in new-car sales, building his experience on the showroom floor and working his way through multi-store dealership operations.

With over 25 years in the automotive industry, Kerry has helped grow automotive businesses from one location with 40 to 50 vehicles in stock to more than 500 vehicles across 10 rooftops. His hands-on background in both new and used-vehicle operations gives him a practical understanding of what customers look for when shopping for their next vehicle.

Throughout his career, Kerry has always been actively involved in staff coaching and in understanding customer wants and needs, helping ensure the businesses he works with continue to adapt to what customers are truly looking for.

One of the most exciting chapters of his career has been the shift into modern automotive marketing, embracing new technology, transparent pricing, customer-first inventory strategies, and new ways to create a better vehicle-shopping experience.

Kerry has completed extensive automotive training, including certification through the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council, involvement with the Used Car Dealers Association of Ontario, Canadian automotive dealer training, and multiple customer service courses.

Born and raised on a farm, Kerry has always valued family, hard work, and a practical, down-to-earth approach. Joining Heighton Automotive Group and working alongside Thomas Heighton and family, along with managing partners Kyle Lothian and Martin Gougeon, has allowed him to bring those same values into the car business. It has also allowed Kerry to continue following a simple philosophy: treat every customer exactly the way he would want to be treated.