I’ve got a love / hate relationship with the Ford Edge.
- On one hand, I’m sick and tired of working on these things. They’re not all that reliable, but they are very common. I work on a lot of them.
- On the other hand, as long as customers keep bringing them to me, my job as a mechanic is safe.
Anyway, I want to share some insights on the issues you might encounter if you’re considering buying one:
Common Problems with the Ford Edge
1. Door Ajar Light
- Issue: One of the most common problems with the Ford Edge is the door ajar light malfunctioning.
- Affected Models: Primarily seen in the 2011-2013 models.
- Details: The light may stay on even when all doors are securely closed. It can lead to more serious problems, such as:
- Battery Drain: If the light stays on, it can drain the battery, leaving you stranded.
- Safety Concerns: The doors may not lock properly while driving, posing a safety risk in case of an accident.
2. Rusting Bolts
- Issue: Rusting bolts in the power steering motor.
- Affected Models: 2013-2016.
- Details: In August 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for these models.
- Here’s why it’s a concern:
- Loss of Steering Control: Rust can cause the power steering motor to detach while driving, leading to a sudden loss of steering.
3. Engine Misfires
- Issue: Engine misfires are particularly common in the 2015 Ford Edge.
- Symptoms: In addition to stuttering, the check engine light may flicker on and off.
- Details: Misfires can lead to:
- Performance Issues: The vehicle may run rough or hesitate during acceleration.
- Costly Repairs: If left unaddressed, misfires can cause severe damage to the engine, potentially requiring a complete engine replacement.
4. Rattling and Stalling
- Issue: Some Edge owners report a rattling noise and sudden stalling.
- Affected Models: 2015-2018.
- Cause: This issue is often linked to faulty flexplates, which connect the engine to the transmission. If the flexplate cracks or shatters, it can lead to a loss of power, causing the vehicle to stall unexpectedly.
- Repair Costs: Repairing the damage from a broken flexplate can be expensive (sometimes costing over $7,000).
5. Stop/Start Accumulator
- Issue: Vehicles produced after 2014 have a stop/start accumulator feature that can malfunction.
- Details: This feature is designed to save fuel by shutting off the engine at stoplights. However, some accumulators have been known to cause fires due to loose or missing bolts, which can allow hot transmission fluid to leak.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty bolts can prevent this potentially dangerous situation.
6. Water Pump Access
- Issue: Difficulty in accessing the water pump for replacement.
- Details: Replacing a water pump is a routine maintenance task, but in the Ford Edge:
- It’s a Complex Procedure: The water pump is located in a position that requires removing the front half of the engine, making this a labor-intensive job.
- Repair Costs are High: What should be a simple repair can lead to thousands of dollars in mechanic labor costs.
Is the Ford Edge Reliable?
If you’re considering an older Ford Edge (especially those made before 2016), be cautious. Many of these vehicles have had significant reliability issues. As a matter fact, these are the models that I tend to work on the most.
I consider 2016 and newer models to be the best. Earlier models are just too problematic to be worth the hassle IMHO.
Recalls
- Airbag Issues (recall numbers 16V384000 and 21V158000): The NHTSA has issued recalls for airbags installed in 2007-2010 models due to the risk of inflator ruptures, which could cause serious injury or death.
- Seatbelt Pretensioners (recall number 21V377000): A recent recall involved the seatbelt pretensioners in the 2021 Ford Edge. A malfunction could increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Additional Recalls: In total, there have been 33 recalls covering various issues, including fuel systems, powertrains, and more.
Tips for Potential Buyers
If you’re thinking about purchasing a Ford Edge, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be Very Aware of the Model Year: Avoid anything older than 2016.
- Check Recall History: Use resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to check for any recalls and ensure they have been addressed.
- Get a Mechanic’s Inspection: Always have a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle before buying. They can spot potential issues that may not be obvious to the average buyer.
