Acura MDX vs Ford Escape
For 2005–2021 models, the Acura MDX has 23.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 64.0 for the Ford Escape. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Acura MDX
23.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
63% fewer than the Ford Escape
- Complaints
- 2,084
- Sold
- 891,484
- Recall campaigns
- 31
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 4
Most complaints: 2016–2017 and 2019–2020. Fewest: 2008, 2010, 2013 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 40,900 mi
-
Driver-assist cameras, radar and calibration
Typically around 14,554 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 40,000 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 88,586 mi
Ford Escape
64.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.7× the Acura MDX’s rate
- Complaints
- 24,991
- Sold
- 3,904,278
- Recall campaigns
- 68
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2008–2010 and 2020. Fewest: 2007, 2012, 2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 56,500 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 110,984 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 52,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 80,200 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Acura MDX or the Ford Escape?
For 2005–2021 models, the Acura MDX has 23.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Escape has 64.0, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Acura MDX?
The most-reported problem on the Acura MDX is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 70,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Escape?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Escape is stalling and no-start, typically around 56,500 miles.
Which Acura MDX and Ford Escape years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Acura MDX: 2016–2017 and 2019–2020; Ford Escape: 2008–2010 and 2020.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.