Rear End Clunk

Heading to the dealer in the morning, with the same issue with my 2016. I'll post my findings as soon as they let me know. Wish me luck

Best of luck. I now have two dealers stumped but it is happening less often. Let me know if they are able to find anything.

I have the same problem. The dealer said that it was normal. They were able to duplicate it,they said that when the rear differential transits from reverse to forward or forward to reverse it has to change the gears and there is a rubber coupling to prevent damage. I can't see how that a clunk that loud without being a problem at some time in the future.

Interesting. I have to think something is going to break somewhere down the road as some of these clunks get really loud. Hate to say it but I guess all I can do is wait for something to break.

I am having the same issue with my 2017 Ford Escape, 2.0L, 4WD. Has anyone figured out the issue and solution?

Best I've got so far is "It's under warranty. If it breaks, we'll tow you in". I have 6,000 miles on so far and it may be getting a little worse. Really would like to know what is going on. Can't get any help from Ford.

Having same issues with my 2017 AWD Escape, dealer could not duplicate

Same issue with my 2017 AWD Escape, took it back to the dealer for the 2nd time. First time they replaced the rear shocks, said that was the problem. Didn't solve the problem. Took it back today, the mechanic got it to make the clunking noise. Took a look and said it's the rear differential. They ordered a new one and will replace. Under warranty.

Would REALLY like to know if that solves the problem.

I'll let you know. They said it will take a couple of weeks to get the parts in.

Just got an email from a Ford service manager from one of the dealers I took my Escape to. There is a special service message from Ford hotline on that repair now (ssm number 46703). Seems it's an electronic component called an active torque coupling. They have now replaced several and it seems to fix the problem.

So as to follow up on replacement of the electronic active torque coupling mentioned in the special service message, Had it replaced today at a dealer with the car being in the shop seven hours and it still clunks. Need an answer to this. Will be waiting for GaruDW61V's experience.

My 2016 is doing the same thing. Dealer has rotated tires(didn't help). Then they said it was a spring on shocks (didn't help). Now they say it is the differential. Have to order part from ford. I don't know what the deal is

After now driving my Escape two days after the torque coupling replacement, I will admit that is has stopped 80% of the clunking and the remaining clunks are less loud and less frequent. At least I won't be embarrassed in a parking lot. The problem now is that Ford can probably say this is "characteristic" of the 4wd or awd and everyone is SOL.

Sitting at the dealership now with same issue awaiting to hear..... 2017 Ford Escape. First time it happened I thought I hit someone backing up. Scared the hell out of me.

2017 2.0L FWD Ecoboost 2300 miles traveling was so loud thought someone threw a boulder. Any ideas.

dealer replaced the differential and I haven't heard the noise since. So now they have rotated my tires, replaced shocks and this, and I think they finally got it right.

Would like to hear if replacing the differential took care of the problem after putting on a few miles. Mine still persists after replacing the electronic torque coupling but not as often but the noise is increasing. Talked again to the dealer I purchased it from and they basically told me to stick it. When it breaks, they'll tow it in. Talked to Ford Customer Service and they didn't really tell me a lot either except the only way it's going to get fixed is if the dealer can duplicate the noise. I have owned Chevrolets the majority of my life and have had warranty issues but never the "run around" I'm getting from Ford. Should be illegal.

Dealer replaced the rear differential and the problem went away. Mechanic said they've had a few of these recently on the 2017's. So if that's one dealer, then there must be multiple others. Should be a recall.

My 2017 AWD Escape started clunking the day after I brought it home from the dealer. The clunking doesn’t happen all the time but when it does it is after backing up then pulling forward just like others have stated. I’ve had it in the dealership several times and driven with the service manager. They have been great and patient in trying to resolve the issue. They have reflashed the electronics, repositioned the strut isolators, torqued suspension bolts and replaced the diff. Nothing so far has reduced the frequency or intensity of the clunk. They are just as stumped as others as to what is causing the clunking. They also found a seal leak in the PTU which they repaired but it had no effect on the issue.

dmahlmei - Thank you for that. If nothing else, I guess I feel a little better knowing I'm not the only one that feels somewhat helpless trying to figure the problem out. At this point I think it's more of an annoyance than a mechanical failure issue.

I appreciate this information about issues with 2017 Escapes equipped with 4WD & AWD. We purchased a new 2015 that periodically makes the same clunking noise emanating from the rear and our dealer has not been able to replicate the noise, nor make any repairs. The noise appeared within months of ownership and seems to be getting louder and more frequent over 2 years, so we are obviously concerned about safety. Yesterday, with the vehicle shut off and stationary, I pushed in on the rear wheel immediately after a clunking episode and heard the same noise as the vehicle rocked. After filling up the tank, the noise disappeared again. We've noticed the intermediate clunking noise at various times while backing up, at slow speeds and also at high speeds. It seems impossible to intentional recreate the noise. Our Ford dealer could not make any suggestions after investigating our concern twice. Today I will be asking a Canadian Tire mechanic to investigate and make suggestions.

Took delivery of 2017 4wd escape 6/30/17. Took it back to dealership on 7/5/17. Loud clunking noise in the rear of the vehicle. Dealer couldn't find the problem. Very loud. Could actually feel it in the passenger compartment. In and out of dealership all of July and I turned it in on Aug. 1st. After two and a half months Ford took it back and refunded my money. This is not an unusual problem. I test drove 2 more vehicles. Same problem. Don't just accept the noise as a normal thing. Fight to get Ford to reacquire the vehicle.

I have a 2017 Escape SE 2.0 4WD and I am currently experiencing the same clunking sound from the rear! I used to work for a Ford dealership and had my vehicle in twice for the issue and they said they couldn't identify the sound, and told me it's just a characteristic of the vehicle. Which in my opinion, is garbage as a brand new vehicle shouldn't clunk so loud that I feel as if I have hit something. I was out with a friend letting them practice parallel parking in my vehicle and had the clunk happen 3 times even after the vehicle had been plenty warmed up! I think I have found the way to replicate the issue, you simply shift from drive to reverse and vice-versa repeatedly until the issue shows up. My friend was so shocked by the sound he asked if he had broken my car. I am going to be taking my vehicle to the dealership every Tuesday (my day off) until they either fix it or nullify my lease. Hopefully they can just take it off my hands as I also have oil leaking from my turbo, a broken speaker, and a malfunctioning security system that locks the car while the key is in the ignition running....

I'm having this same problem with the rear suspension/axle noise and would like to know what the cure is? It seems that there maybe many repairs here to fix this "clunk".

Since I started this topic, I am still waiting for a fix. My clunk was very loud. Have been to many dealers and most show me where the door is. One dealer did replace the electronic torque coupling which I am assuming is in the rear differential (under warranty). It still clunks but not nearly as harsh making me think maybe this is the culprit. Talked to a Ford customer service rep and all she said was "take it back to the dealer". It appears Ford washes their hands of the problem and is now starting to say it is "characteristic". Hopefully an owner will find the fix on this forum.

I'm watching this thread as Ford replaced my rear shocks in my 2016 Escape today. I thought that was a weird fix, and now I will be curious to see if the clunking comes back.

Refer back to my first entry 3 weeks ago - GuruZW2L9. The Canadian Tire tech identified a possible source of a "rubbing noise" when he installed our winter tires. While putting our summer tires into the cargo area, he pushed down on the back fender with the truck open and heard the noise. Note that there was a load on the chassis. I had produced the clunking noise with the 2015 Escape stationary and the engine off by simply pushing sideways on the top of the driver's side rear tire. The resulting noise made me immediately think it had to be shocks; which was finally "diagnosed" by our Ford dealer today. Their tech was able to hear the clunking noise as he reversed the vehicle, which had a half tank of gas. Note that there was a partial load. He also heard the noise once the vehicle was hoisted and he pushed in on the same tire, as I had done earlier. Apparently the shock was working only partially with a load in the trunk but not without a load; that is, with the shock interior mechanism fully extended. Unfortunately, a replacement shock isn't available for 2 weeks, so I cannot report on whether or not the proposed fix will work. I will follow up once the warranty repair is completed. Again, I do not know if we are talking about the same kind of noise; that is, generated by a faulty shock versus a problem with the differential.

Same issue here with my 2016 Ford Escape. I will outline the dates and issues I have had and continue to have with my 2016 Ford Escape: -Rattling/Clunk coming from what sounds like the rear suspension. Took my vehicle to Ford Dealer/Garage on 12/29/2016 and was told that the issue was the sway bar bushings, part ordered and told to come back. Returned on 1/3/2017 and was told that the rear shocks were bad and needed to be replaced. Ford supposedly replaced shock absorber and advised "okay at this time". Same noise continues so vehicle was brought in again to the same dealer/service location on 1/25/2017 and found that the rear shock seized and needed replaced. Again, Ford supposedly replaced shock absorber, was told it was test drove, and "no further noise present at this time". Noise continues, took vehicle back again on 8/28/2017 and was advised checked for known issues "no repair made, no defect found". Noise persist, vehicle back on 11/1/2017, again advised no noise heard. Took technician for test drive, could not duplicate noise. Half way home, noise began again. At this point I decided to take my vehicle to another Ford Service garage a bit further from where I live. On 11/18/2017 I took my Ford to the new garage and the noise was able to be duplicated. The service technician made note of the noise and my vehicle was there for over 2 hours with no resolve of the problem. Was advised to make another service appointment to have it looked at/worked on again. I had a feeling I was being given the run around due to being a female, but it looks like it's just a general run around that the rest of you are getting. I contacted the Ford GM for my area and requested a repurchase of the vehicle at this point. If that is declined, I will be hiring an attorney.

Hello again. See my last entry GURU ZW2L9 re; shock absorber being replaced by Ford dealership. As mentioned several weeks ago, our Ford dealer finally diagnosed the problem as a faulty shock absorber that was not engaging in the top third of the device. It has now been replaced and for two days we did not detect any noise... until yesterday; which was less than a week following the repair. My wife stood on the rear passenger door jamb and rocked the vehicle immediately after we heard the noise again with the vehicle stationary and the ignition off. Although the noise is not as loud as previous, we believe that the other shock should have been replaced too. I intend to also ask the service tech to investigate the sway bar bushings since Barney had that investigated. Like others, we are concerned about safety and the resale value of a vehicle with an undiagnosed mechanical/structural issue. Come on Ford... get this dealt with or we will never purchase another Ford.

I received a call back from my Ford Regional Manager who advised me that they cannot reacquire nor replace my vehicle. I was offered and extremely offended by an offer for a free extended warranty which would only cost me $100.00 per visit regardless of this being an ongoing issue that Ford is well aware of. I have now contacted the BBB and filed a complaint. If that does not resolve my dispute, it will be attorney time.

Figured as much since I got roughly the same reply from Ford. They did give me a case number they have put on file to hopefully revert back to if something breaks pertaining to this noise, if that means anything. Let us know how the BBB turns out. Attorney fees can easily make this option not real viable. Still hoping to track down the cause of the noise and eventually I will.

Hello yet again. See my last entry GURU ZW2L9. The dealership that replaced only one of the rear shocks has asked us to bring the vehicle back to investigate "a wire harness inside a body panel rubbing under certain conditions". Apparently one of their technicians located this problem on a different vehicle. Not sure why Ford isn't communicating out all of the repair possibilities. Instead, owners are required to make multiple visits to investigate numerous possibilities. So far, we've been back 4 times over 18 months without any resolution. Most visits require a subsequent return visit to replace a part that is not in stock and takes a week to arrive at the dealership. Not good customer service Ford. We'll insist that the other shock is replaced at the same time that the "wire harness" is investigated.

My wife's 2016 Escape Titanium is making the same intermittent rattle many have described. I am a retired ASE certified Auto Tech. I have briefly searched for this myself because I don't think we can duplicate it at the Ford dealer because it is too intermittent. If a customer took me for a ride and I heard the noise I would say it is a loose shock mount. That's what ours sounds like. Like the top of the shock is loose in the mount. I have rarely had a shock it self make a noise like this but I have had it occur twice in 45 years of service. When I cure our problem I will post.

May be talking about two different issues here. Mine is actually a loud clunk and seeing you are a tech, to me it sounds exactly like frozen caliper breaking loose. I have not ruled that out yet. Something definitely seems to be binding and letting loose when I switch from reverse to drive.

My Escape has been making a slamming/clunking sound from the rear of the vehicle since I purchased it. Been in and out of two different ford dealerships with no success. Last week I was driving around at low speeds doing parking lot maneuvers and it wouldn't stop clunking. Took it to the dealer and had the shop foreman drive with me. He heard it and was shocked. Took it in on Tuesday and they now have a rear differential unit clutch pack and a single shock absorber on order. We'll see if this helps, I really hope it does.

I have posted several possible resolutions that have been tried to resolve rear end clunking and creaking noises... we've discover that these are really two separate issues. We insisted that both of the rear shocks be replaced and the Ford mechanic was surprised that the fault in both shocks was only apparent when they were removed from the vehicle. The tech noticed very little resistance in the first few inches of travel. Other checks included: the vehicle did not have any metal in the rear differential fluid, so that was not pursued further. Not a PIDS or a RDU issues. Tech noticed a creaking noise when in reverse and when slowly releasing the brake, but he described that as normal. No play found in the rear bushings. No play in any control arm or sway bar bushings; with sway bar links described as good also. However, the tech finally repaired a plastic piece that was rubbing on the rear bumper reinforcement. He used some flocked tape from a "Rotunda squeak and rattle kit" to contract the points between the plastic piece and the metal bumper. Eureka! No more creaking noise. The new shocks make the vehicle handle better too. Hopefully our issues are resolved. Good luck to everyone.

We just came down Interstate 80 Donner Summit down to the Northern California Valley floor the Summit is about 7500 foot elevation down to about 0 foot elevation her car had for suitcases to people and an ice chest with food in it and turned the bottom third of this roller coaster of a ride the road is rough it's gone over with a lot of semi rigs snow plows ice snow sleet you name it and about the bottom third of the ride we started experiencing severe amounts of this clunking and actually sort of felt like we're losing control of the rear of the vehicle slowed very much down because there are no service stations or anything down on that Highway and so therefore I found this thread here I'm certainly going to be talking to Ford and finding out which one of these problems we have because so we're replicating the fact that we were going downhill and we have had some minor clunking when we've gone down or up certain steep hills not normally with things in the back of the car but this was loaded downhill for a long ways on a rough road so we are about 800 miles from home we're going to go ahead and continue going home because we really can't afford to sit around some other town hoping that Ford can fix get parts and all that type of thing

Hey, I was experiencing the same problem. Had a rear clunk at low speeds. Jacked up my car and found that it was a piece of metal tin that came loose and was touching the driving shaft. Just took it out and problem solved. Not even going to send it for replacement as it is so small and is just for exhaust heat protection. Hope this can help anyone.

I purchased a 2017 AWD and I seem to be having the same problem. After backing up out of driving, then pulling forward, the front end it seem, make 2 loud grinding noises, kind of like kachunk, kachunk. Does this most of the time after backing up. Took to dealer and cant replicate. Anybody experiencing this kind of problem?

The word grinding does not relate in my case but the loud kachunk does. Have 16,000 miles on my 2017 now and it's still regularly doing it. Seems to be more noticeable as the weather warms up again.

Have the same problem. They have replaced all the same parts (drive shaft, differential, shocks, etc) they finally found the break brackets loose. They did bring the ford engineer from the factory. Tighten up the breaks. That has fixed the problem, at least 90% of the time. Said that backing up and turning then pulling forward too fast there would be a slight bump. I found that if you let the vehicle come to a complete stop before pulling forward there isn't even a bump. So problem fixed as long as I don't get into too big of a hurry.

Looking more and more like Ford won't be able to find it but glad to hear they did put an engineer on it. I tend to commonly hit the gas when moving forward which makes sense as my wife only experiences it randomly. Beginning to look like it's going to be a "characteristic" issue with the Escapes.

I just bought a 2015 AWD Escape about a month and a half ago and because of an audible thunk that happens when I turn sharp corners or go over bumps large enough to make the car shift a bit, I've actually driven the dealership's loaner car more often than my own. (That is to say, it's been in the shop A LOT.) They replaced the front struts after finding "significant wear", then the rear shock absorbers after calling the local Ford dealership (I didn't buy it from the Ford dealership because I hate their guts for the way they treat customers) and being told about the shock TSB. Still, the noise persists. I've thought it was the rear struts this whole time but nobody has humored me and messed with them, probably because I'm just a dumb girl who doesn't know a thing about cars despite owning three (now four) with suspension issues and working on a lot of them myself... The car is currently back in after their last fix didn't work but this time the service manager took a ride with me herself and was almost shocked at the noise she heard. So, at least now she knows I'm not crazy when I say it's making an awful sound and is going to look into it a bit harder. It sucks that we have to deal with this. My last Escape, a 2013 FWD, had no such noises. Definitely makes me wonder if it isn't related to just the AWD/4WDs.

I had the same noise. They had to replace my 4 wheel drive component. It was stuck in 4 wheel drive. The clunking noise stopped after that.

I bought a new 2017 Ford Escape SE and have had the same clunking problem from day one. They tried to fix it twice and finally gave me another car. The new car, same color and all, has done the same thing and they blamed me for causing this because I shifted too fast from backing up to drive. I now have about 7000 miles on the car and will again go to the dealer with all of this information clearly indicating that many others have experienced the same thing. Perhaps they will read how the problem was fixed or made better if they read all of these responses. In Ohio, if they try to fix it 3 times the lemon law kicks in - I am hearing that the 2018 Ford Escape was really nor changed much and the clunking is also happening with the 2018 models. The big changes are to occur in 2019 so, since it is under warranty for 36,000 miles I may wait for the new model and hope this problem has been changed.

Very interesting and I am at the same point. My intent is to trade before warranty is off. I like the vehicle but I am afraid a new one will have the same issues so we will see. I had a rental (different manufacturer) on vacation last week and it was really strange not to have the normal "clunk". Can't wait until 2019 for the new 2020 models so may go to a Grand Cherokee. At least I have several dealers that sell both. It's really strange they can't get this figured out.

My thunking noise turned out to be a rock jammed up into the suspension where it didn't belong. It was grinding and moving every time the vehicle shifted sideways. So, luckily, mine was an easy enough fix. Hopefully, all of you figure out what's wrong with your cars!

I put a switch on my 4wheel fuse so when making turns I can switch it on and off

I have been experiencing the rear end clunking noise as well (typically when reversing out of my driveway). Took my 2017 Ford Escape Titanium to the dealership on Friday...it's still there. They are replacing the RDU (Rear Drive Unit). I trust that will solve the issue.

Keep us posted.

i have a 2017 ford escape 4x4 1.5 L there is a loud clunk coming from the rear end when reversing i took it to a ford dealership they could not duplicate the noise im gonna take it back next week and make them ride with me so they can hear it for themselves

After starting this forum roughly 1 year ago on my 2017 Escape 4x4 Sport, I have looked at everything mechanical that could cause this. Last week I threw in 100 ibs of potting soil in the rear and guess what, "NO MORE CLUNK". Still have 50 lbs back there and still good. Try this. Just a band-aid but now gives a person a place to look (and I will). Has to be in the suspension play where something is binding when totally up. Could be a design issue with some bad geometry or a torquing issue on a metal to rubber suspension joint. Will be looking closer at this but try some weight to see if it quits.

Well, that lasted for 2 weeks. Now the clunk is back worse than ever. Ford attorneys have covered their butt with the Lemon Law. Dealers will not log a visit in unless they install parts. One dealer had the Escape for a week and the visit will not show up. Traded it off to a multi manufacturer dealer on a new Chevrolet Colorado who now can deal with Ford much better than me. Worst experience I have ever had and I'm sure it is illegal. Will never buy another Ford again!!

Purchased a ford escape se awd automatic on march of 2017. I have put 19000ish miles on her and they have all been easy miles. I am now on my third rear axle because' yes I Do count the one it came with. I have not missed a oil change or scheduled service including her 15000 mile check up. The rear axle switch seems only to work for a short time. Last time in was told there was fluid and metal shards in the differential. I also not only hear the clunking noise when backing up but at times it not only sounds like but feels like you just backed up and hit a truck.I intend to mention everything I have picked upon this search. I have also been told by my service people that there is no way I could have done this. They are as stumped as everyone else.Something has to give because like the rest of you I bought a new car and that is what I'm paying for

We are having the same issue 2017 4wd ecoboost 2L. Large clunk when going from reverse to fwd, or the other way. Dealer replaced the transmission module. didn't work. brought it back. they are now replacing the rear differential; will see if that works.

Bought a brand new 2017 Ford Escape Titanium thinking it would be a good car... then three months after driving it off the lot I started hearing a loud clunk when I put into reverse. Almost gives you a heart attack thinking you've hit something. Took it into dealer and was told they would replace the rear differential clutch pack,, got it back and they replaced the rear axle assembly.. Will be testing to see if that fixed the problem.. wish me luck

I have a 2017 with the "clunk." I have followed this posting since i got care 7 months ago. It seems there hasn't been a solution. My find is that if I disable the traction control when i back up it almost eliminates the clunk. it only has a slight clunk if i have to cut wheels tight one way and then back going forward. So i turn traction off when I back up and try to roll with wheels strait a few feet and start off easy and no clunk. We may never know until it breaks.

I've got a 2018 Escape Titanium. First, when I back out of the driveway (wheels in a left turn) and then go into drive and turn the wheels into a right turn, I get two distinct noises in the front like I am driving over two piles of gravel. Happens 80% of the time. Second, after 11,000 miles I am now getting a very loud clunk/bang in the rear when I back up in a turn (left or right), like backing out of a nose-in parking space. The noise scares the heck out of my wife, and sometimes makes me jump as well. I am taking it to my dealer in 2 weeks.

Problem solved!! After dealer changed the drive shaft, differential, shocks, breaks, 4wheel module, and finally bringing the Ford factory engineer to look at the problem. They finally said I had a lemon. Now driving a new Escape (fwd not awd). No more CLUNK!!!

I am leasing a 2016 Escape SE. I started hearing the clunking in July 2018 when I would back out of my driveway. When I went to get my rear brakes replaced I mentioned the noise. I let them know it also was making it when I would turn right. They fixed the brakes and said the noise was gone. Two weeks later it was back and making it about 80% of the time. One day in October 2018 I thought the rear end was going to fall off the noise was so loud. I drove it immediately to the dealer and explained it. They were booked up so didn't get appointment for another week and half. Of course it stopped making the noise. I'm at my waits end!

I have a 2018 Escape & it clunks too. Mention it to my nephew who is a engineer for Ford & he rolled his eyes.... God help me !!

I have a 2017 Ford Escape SE 4wd (love the vehicle, my second one). Zero problems with my 2013. But, have had this clunk in the rear end of my 2017 since day one. Dealer first replaced the rear shocks (per Ford's recommendation), but did not help. Second, again per Ford recommendation, replaced the entire rear end. This also did not help. Going back into the shop next week to apply (Ford's recommendation) of SSM number 46703 (an electronic component called an Active Torque Coupling). Please note that my clunk is the worst with any weight in the back of the vehicle...especially with 2 passengers in the back seat. Lucky for me I leased this vehicle and will be turning it in soon. Bob 4/11/19

I have a 2018 titanium and escape that also has the rear end noise after backing up and then going forward, has been in ford dealer 4 times they replaced torque clutch twice ,rear shocks once. And it still makes noise about 60% of the time when you back up.. they as much as said to live with it as Ford was not going to even consider taking it back. It also sometimes has bad hesitation when slowing down and then making a turn in traffic almost like tranny is in neutral????? Will not buy another ford product.

Yup. Been through it all and Ford customer service was extremely rude during the whole process. Ended up dumping the Escape and getting a Colorado and GMC Terrain which I really like. Vehicle is much more solid then the Escape and gets "much" better mileage even though I got the optional 2.0 turbo which I also had in my 2017 Escape. Done with Fords.

Check out this video my problem sounded very similar and it ended up being this easy of a fix lol https://youtu.be/V4NSNdqOYN8 nothing like a lil YouTube

Well...my 2016 Ford Escape that I have driven for 2 weeks with 15, 000 miles is in the shop with what I am told is the differential. Also told that it is not uncommon for this to happen. The noise I heard was a rumbling sound when I turned a corner. The service tech treated me well, gave me a "loaner" and said parts are ordered. I should have the car back by Saturday. I have had Fords for years without any major issues. Reading all these posts is concerning to me.

Thank all of you for your imput.Am now just plain pissed. Took my 2017 in for oil change and let them know, she was once again, clunking. I have all my service records (on paper). When they told me she was ready I was told they checked about the noise(mind you, I am now on rear end #3). The condescending putz told me they found the spare tire and the jack handle were not secure in the back and that was probably it. They tightened them both down. My next visit, because THAT fix did absolutely nothing but piss me off will be paperwork in hand to meet with the dealership owner . Am taking my own copies of work orders because I have a sneaking suspicion they won't be able to access them that day. Kind of like the day I got her, I had pulled up my credit score and wrote it down, went in and surprise!!!, not only could they not pull it up, but I couldn't get it on my phone there either. Am beginning to feel very distrustful. I might add, my last visit was just after my bumper to bumper warranty ended. They don't know but I purchased a second one from someone else that covers her for 4 more years.

Brenda here - we have 2017 Escape Eco Boost and just discovered the clunk in past few weeks - we have approx. 39,000 km on her. have copied and pasted information shared to print off. Will call Ford dealers in our area and find out if their service depts. have fixed problem for others. Thanks for sharing and helping in our detective work before we call about getting vehicle serviced. My brother is retired Ford Canada Customer Service Rep and drives and Escape also. I will contact him to find out if he has heard or this clunk or has heard it on his vehicle. He just left for 2 wks vacation so will be talking to him when he gets home. we have plans to drive 5 hours into New York State mid Nov. would like to feel confident that the issue is not going to waylay us en route. the noise I can deal with for the interim - just don't want a break down. boo hoo ! even though I get my Brothers A Plan Ford pricing. This will be our last Ford. Will either get Nissan, Mitsubishi, Honda or Toyota etc after doing some in depth research. We gave our daughter our 07 Mitsubishi Outlander recently at its running like a charm. In 108,000 KM it needed very minor re call twice? only did the regular oil changes - would love to hear how folks engine auto stop feature works. Ours rarely kicks in - No Biggy - I think the restarting of the engine when you take foot off the brake is more wearing on the vehicle starter than saving a few bucks on gas.

Ok everyone, I have been reading all of these concerns and I see no one has posted a clunking sound in a 2018 ecosport. Mine is not a clunk but more of a very hard thump like someone had hit me from behind. Serviced it of course we'll never replicate the same sound for them. But mine is mostly an electronic therefore the engine has not even been started or I am not driving it it's when I open any of the doors. Only happens once in a blue moon. Any Ecosport Thumpers out there?

hey everyone. Hope you all know that this is not just a 2017 issue. It stretches back to 2002 I believe. My 2005 escape hybrid never had the problem in its 239,000 miles. But my new (used) 2008 hybrid escape bought at 92,000 miles does. While it's definitely there it's relatively quiet. So much so my partner said she never even noticed it. I suspect Ford knows about it, but is so stumped THEY haven't even been able to solve it on the assembly lines. All these years and my mechanic's search turned up not a single TSB on the issue. Maybe that's because nothing has ever broken from it; i.e. no direct evidence. Nothing to repair. Maybe it's a "live with it" problem if you own an escape.

No way! we just bought a brand new 2019 Ford Escape, AWD , after 11400 miles we are hearing the thud/drop (clunk) sound when we reverse. It scares me half to death, I thought for sure I hit someone with the back of my car. Exactly as you have all expressed. I did notice that it seems to 'clunk' when we are backing, then turning the wheel. Like backing out of a parking place. (Not so much when driving straight back).

Don't have an answer yet but a response to Guru9YHPG. They said it may come from not keeping your foot on the brake while shifting. I'll try that. Mine seems more frequent now but is intermittent. I have a 2014 V6 Mustang. Don't recall this issue in any other car I had. Surprised I never took Mustang in for this issue while under warranty. Maybe because it didn't happen much or wasn't as loud. I also heard a loud 'crack' yesterday while driving through a parking lot. This all seems to come from the same area as this originally posted question.. passenger side rear wheel. If weather permits I'm changing my front brake pads today. Will look in that area & see if I can notice anything..

Couldn't change pads too cold today but think found a fix for my problem. On my 2014 Mustang which is an automatic you have to keep your foot on the brake when shifting till the shifting process is complete.. that is after you shift wait till you hear/feel a click.. takes about a second, and no issue! I had a clank in the front one of the last times but feel that was the components readjusting themselves back into place since I'm doing the process properly now. The car actually feels smoother now since I started that too. I'll write another update if I still have an issue but don't think I will ☺

Is the rear shock absorber upper mount, the hole is way to big for the mounting bolts. I remove the shock absorber on my 2016 Edge and the clunking went away. I call the dealer to let them know, and bushing should be added to the mount. They told me no. So I had my machinist at work made some bushing.

Is been 2 days and no more clunking noise with new bushings installed on the upper mount.

Same problem with a 2017 Escape SE 2.0 AWD. Audible and feeling a clunk when reversing and turning. Intermittent but very noticeable. Had it looked at by Ford dealership and they are replacing the Rear Differential Clutch. Appears to be a known problem with the AWD Escapes. Hope that helps

Try spraying your rubber to metal suspension joints really good with WD-40. Worked for me! :)

Try asking your ford dealer about a service bulletin issued by ford regarding this issue. I test drove a 2018 Ford Escape and noticed the car clunking in the rear when making sharp slow turns . The dealer looked up the issue, and found a service bulletin out stating that if a car is having this issue it has to do with the programming and it needs to be reprogrammed. The dealer is going to fix the issue, and I am going to test drive it again once they do to see if that fixes it. Hopefully this helps!

My 2017 ford escape 2L Titainium AWD with 43,000 KM while parked on an incline makes a clunk in the rear. This happens after I put in R and back up and when I drive forward also. This has been going on for 2yrs. I made an a appointment with the dealer where I explained what was going on. They replaced clutch in the automatic transmission. Was under warranty

Geese guys...hate to disappoint but Ford's been aware of this problem for over a decade. Yep, you heard that right. My 2010 4wd hybrid Escape clunks. The slower I start off after reversing, the quieter it clunks. I've gotten really proficient in managing it without thinking. So the bad news it's been a problem with no solution since at least 2006 ! All the reprogramming, replacement computer cards, necw shocks, tires, differentials, gas tank guage, gas tank attachment bolts, and more cures (I read one letter in another forumn where the mechanic swore it was in the housing where the jack tools are saying if you mount them all with rubber padding it will go away) never seem to work. Some folks out of warranty spent lots of $ replacing almost all the rear end components and still no luck. But there are still too many solutions floating around. Anyone tried Voodoo on the Ford mechanics? I hear it's promising. The shock absorber upper mount makes a lot of sense since that's the general area of the "clunk". Me? I'll keep skin's what I've been Dion's. At least that works.

Let me bring this forward a time a little---2019 ford Escape has the identical issue. Reading above sounds like what I would have written.

my 2019 lincoln mkc had the rear differential clunk/shudder from day one. same senario as you folks. after a lot of reasearch i found a TSB from ford that cured it . TSB 21-2077 dated march 17 2021 . the dealer reprogramed the PCM now it's great

Had the same problem... 2018 Escort AWD. Replaced all 4 tires. Clunk gone. Even money it has something to do with worn tires with uneven circumference... even just a little.

I just got a 2012 Ford Escape XLT 4WD. This is my third Escape. My 2004 XLT V6 clunked, so I replaced everything in the suspension, front and back. Struts, control arms, stabilizer links, stabilizer bar bushings in the front, shocks, upper and lower control arms, stabilizer bar links and bushings and coil springs in the rear. I also replaced the driveshaft, which fixed a terrible vibration. But nothing fixed the clunk. My 2005 Escape Hybrid also clunked. I replaced the entire suspension on it, too, with the same lack of success at stopping the clunk. My 2012 XLT also clunks. I have replaced the entire suspension on it, too, with the same results as before, although I did find bad bushings, sloppy ball joints and worn shocks, so it needed to be done anyway. The spare tire is stowed below the car, and it is tight in its mount, so that's not it. There are two areas I haven't done anything to - the rear trailing arm mounting bushings and the differential. I'm not really keen on doing anything with either of these. The forecast is for snow starting tomorrow, so working outside on the driveway has no appeal to me! My confidence in Ford dealers is not high, and nothing I have read here has raised it.

Hello. I have been experiencing the grinding/clunking intermittently for 5 years now. So far no wheels have fallen off while driving down the freeway. Thank goodness. Before noise: Backing up straight from the driveway onto the street, then turn wheel clockwise so I'm backing into the closest lane to the house and preparing to drive away in the closest lane to the house. After backing up I stop in the street and engage "drive" . Noise occurs: driving forward and turning wheel counter clockwise (so that wheel is aimed straight down the road. 2017 Titanium AWD. The noise feels and sounds like it is coming from the front. Could never duplicate the problem at the dealer. Seems to be getting worse. After reading these 85 letters I'm less worried because, apparently, wheels have not been falling off of Escapes. I'll Try the Tech Service Bulletin proposed solution at the Ford dealer. Thanks Guru9X1TRL

My 2017 AWD Escape has exhibited the "clunk" from the rear axle--I think the left rear, since new. I've asked the dealer to listen, but the rep couldn't replicate it. He did a little BS "procedure", pretending to repeat a typical start up and back out/turn. I got the impression that Ford knows all about this, but coaches the dealers how to stonewall the customers. I believe it has something to do with the AWD systemThe sound is like running over a stone that gets spit out from under the tire. This is not a squeak, scrape, or rattle. It reminds me of a tire suddenly sliding when a 4 x 4 truck has the fronts locked on dry pavement. I suppose I could squander many hours and tanks of fuel trying to get the dealer to recognize the problem, but I don't think Ford is capable of admitting to the problem and coming up with a fix. So, instead, I plan to sell the car before my extended warrantee runs out, and never step inside a Ford dealer again. It was an expensive experiment.

Hi I have the same SUV with the same issues Ford fixed it it was the Transmission they changed a part that was defective a year ago. No problems since

Bought my 2017 escape from its lease in 2020. Early last July and mileage still under 45,000 the coolant leaked into engine (engine coolant intrusion is the term) and the engine failed. It took over a month to even have it looked at and also explained I had lubricant slow dripping from the rear left side. They replaced the entire engine (under ford's customer satifaction program 21N12 for this sprcific issue which was great, however, after 5 months I just got the car back and they never looked at the dripping fluid and said the differential needs replacement ($2,500). Ironically, the warrently expired during my wait time back in July. Ford is now looking into it and will let you know the outcome.

Have dealer check all suspension bushings - Forward Rear Control Arm in particular. Known issue and only last 60-80k km according to dealer - which does not explain why they did not check this sooner. I found the issue and has them replace. Took 25k km to track it down but replacement fixed noise. Been good for 4-6 weeks now but now have similar noise returned this week after changing off snow tires. Noticed in process that lower control arm bushings are a similar design and looked to be misaligned on the inboard end vs the cross bolt that secures them. My guess there is movement in these too! Suggest having your mechanics check out all the rear bushings/joints for wear/movement.

Should have said - my car is the 2019 Escape Titanium with 2.0L and 108,000km