Steps to Reset the Ford Escape Service Interval Light
Put the ignition into the RUN position (turn the key to the second position).
Hold down the accelerator pedal and then hold down the brake pedal at the same time.
A message will appear on the information display screen “_Service: Oil Reset in Prog.”
Keep holding down both pedals until this message changes to “_Service: Oil Reset Complete”
The Ford Escape Service Required reminder should only be reset after changing the oil and oil filter on the car.
Why It's Important to Reset the Ford Escape Maintenance Light
Resetting the maintenance light on a Ford Escape is crucial for monitoring oil change frequency and inspecting the engine’s oil status, including the distance until the next required service. Additionally, maintaining a separate log of each oil change and service for the Ford Escape (by keeping a file of all service documents) is recommended. This practice not only guarantees optimal vehicle maintenance but also offers proof of consistent upkeep, which can be beneficial if you decide to sell the vehicle later.
Ford Escape Oil Type and Quantity
The 2013-2020 Ford Escape 2.5L engine requires 5.7 Quarts of 5W-20 Synthetic Oil.
How Often Should You Change the Oil on Your Ford Escape?
It’s advisable to change the oil in your Ford Escape every 3,000 miles. Although some service centers and dealerships might suggest lengthening the period between oil changes, adhering to a consistent 3,000-mile interval for oil changes is crucial. This regular maintenance practice is essential for maintaining your Ford Escape’s engine performance and avoiding various potential issues.
What to Do If the Service Reset Procedure Does Not Work?
Should you face difficulty in resetting the service interval on your Ford Escape, don’t hesitate to try again. Turn off the ignition and engine, take out the key, and then commence the reset procedure again. Ensure that the hood and all doors are securely closed before starting.
Why is the Service Maintenance Light Still On After An Oil Change?
Once you’ve finished changing the oil in a Ford Escape, it’s important to remember to reset the service intervals and maintenance indicators. Simply replacing the oil and oil filter doesn’t automatically deactivate the maintenance light. If this light stays on after the oil change, it suggests that the person who changed the oil forgot to reset it.
General Ford Escape Maintenance Tips
Check Tire Pressure and Tire Tread
Find the suggested tire pressure for your Ford Escape by checking the white or yellow label on the door panel, which becomes visible when you open the driver’s side door. To avoid overinflating the tires, inflate them when they are cold. This means either waiting three hours after the vehicle has last been driven or inflating the tires before driving. To assess the tread wear on each tire, you can either use the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
Rotate Your Tires
We recommend rotating the Ford Escape tires every other oil change, (if you are changing your oil at our recommended 3,000 mile interval) or every 6,000 miles.
Check the Coolant Level
Inspect the coolant level to confirm it falls within the appropriate range in the coolant reservoir, which is above the minimum mark and below the maximum mark. Using a flashlight might help you see more clearly inside the coolant container. Given that the coolant system is sealed, a notably low coolant level may indicate a leak. Perform a pressure test on the system to identify any potential leaks.
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Examine the thickness of the brake pads on both the front and rear brakes of your Ford Escape with the aid of a flashlight to make sure they have sufficient material left. A brake pad measurement tool can offer a precise thickness evaluation. Also, check the rotors for any signs of rust or irregularities. If your Ford Escape is raised on a jack or a lift, manually rotate each wheel by hand to ensure they move freely. Any resistance could point to a problem with the brake caliper or stuck slider pins in the caliper.
Check Brake Fluid Reservoir
Keeping the brake fluid reservoir consistently full is crucial. A notably low level of brake fluid typically suggests there’s a leak in the system. Inspect the brake calipers and lines for any signs of leaking.
Check Washer Fluid Level
Top up your washer fluid reservoir. In the winter months, opt for a washer fluid that contains antifreeze to prevent it from freezing in the container.
Check the Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Access the air filter box in your Ford Escape and remove the air filter. Clean it with a vacuum, compressed air, or by shaking off dirt and debris if it appears dirty. Replace it with a new one if it’s excessively dirty. If it’s clean, simply reinsert it. Remember, there’s also a cabin air filter behind the glove box, which cleans the air inside the cabin. Check this filter and replace it if it’s dirty or has not been changed previously.
Power Steering Fluid
Check the Ford Escape’s power steering fluid reservoir making sure the reservoir is at the full mark of power steering fluid. If it’s low, this could indicate a leak, top up the fluid and check the power steering lines for any leaks.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
With a decade of experience as an automotive technician in both dealerships and private garages, I have noticed that vehicles which miss regular maintenance are more prone to frequent and severe issues. Even though some car makers recommend oil change intervals of 5,000 to 20,000 miles, my professional advice, especially for the Ford Escape, is to change the oil every 3,000 miles regardless of Ford’s own recommendations. This practice is key to maintaining the vehicle’s peak performance and durability. Frequent oil changes can reduce engine wear, potentially enhancing fuel efficiency by up to 2%. It also helps the engine to run cleaner, which is vital for avoiding the accumulation of damaging deposits that can shorten the engine’s life.