The Ford Edge is a crossover SUV and was the first mid-size CUV launched by the company back in 2007. The Edge shared its underpinnings with the popular Ford Fusion sedan. It slots in between the Ford Escape and Ford Explorer, offering plenty of space and comfort for the average family.
After being on sale for nearly 8 years, Ford launched the second generation model in 2015 which received a complete redesign, reminiscent of their recent launches like the Taurus and Explorer with a hexagonal grille design, new headlights, and updated interiors.
All engine options were also revamped, with the base 2.0L engine getting a new twin-scroll turbo. Because of these comprehensive updates, it’s a good idea to look for a 6-year old Ford Edge for sale to get the best value.
The next major facelift was launched in 2018 for the 2019 MY and gave the Edge a design refresh with an updated grille, new wheel designs, and a longer feature list. So, if you’re planning on buying a used Ford Edge, look for a 2015 and higher model year.
Looking from that perspective, here are the major changes over the years:
2016: SYNC 3 infotainment is introduced to replace the aging MyFord Touch system
2017: Smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple Carplay
2018: Carryover model with no major updates
2019: Refreshed styling inline with modern Ford models, standard Co-Pilot 360 safety system, performance-oriented ST model, updated drivetrain with 8-speed automatic transmission.
2020: ST-Line trim introduced
2021: New infotainment system with a bigger 12-inch display, and an updated 7-speed automatic transmission for the ST trim.
Like most modern cars, the Edge uses a turbocharged small-capacity engine in the base and mid-range trims, while the range-topping ST model which debuted in 2020 gets a turbocharged V6 engine with impressive performance.
Most owners easily sailed past the 200,000-mile mark. However, the 2013 model year was the most problematic and should be avoided. From battery draining issues to a faulty fuel system, the 2013 model was recalled several times over the years. However, Ford repaired all of these issues, and the 2014 model is the most reliable with no major issues or recalls.
If taken care of, the Ford Edge should last over 200,000 miles with ease. Here are some tips you should follow to help the crossover serve you better, and last a long time.
Preventive maintenance
Like most cars, the Ford Edge is also susceptible to several issues if not maintained properly. Starting with the engine oil, Ford recommends an oil and filter change every 10,000 miles. But, if you drive in unideal conditions like heavy traffic and light trails, take your car in for service earlier to avoid engine damage.
Engine oil helps lubricate the engine components and prevent metal-to-metal contact. If the oil is not changed in time, carbon deposits and constant heat cycling will degrade the oil, and eventually turn it into a sludge that can clog up oil lines and damage the engine. In some cases, the oil can burn away and severely damage internal components.
Ford also recommends checking all the other components along with the cooling system during regular maintenance. At the 100,000 mile mark, there are a lot more services to perform to make sure the car will run without any issues.
Other components like brakes last around 80,000 miles on average, while the battery can last up to 6 years with average use.
Thanks to the modern transmission, there are no major transmission issues reported, and it can last more than 200,000 miles without any major issues. However, expect reduced life if you haul a lot of cargo and drive aggressively.
Some reported issues to watch out for include power steering faults, oil burn, and transmission-related problems.
Electrical issues
By far, most of the complaints made about the Edge are regarding its electrical system. In the early years, over 200 complaints were reported with the electrics. One notable issue is regarding the door-ajar warning light staying on, which was reported 370 times. Because of this, the car won’t be able to lock properly and cause the battery to drain.
Rust issues
Like most modern cars, the Ford Edge is also susceptible to rust after the first couple of years. According to owners, rust first starts appearing on the door seams under the rubber beadings and hood. Rust can also form if deeper dents and scratches are left untreated for a while.
Most of the rusted components are not covered under Ford’s warranty even though the Edge gets a 5-year corrosion warranty with unlimited mileage.
To keep the car rust-free, repair all body damages and stone chips as soon as possible and undercoat the car with wax or any other breathable coating when it’s new.
Transmission Issues
Many complaints were recorded regarding the automatic transmission, especially in the early years with the 6-speed box. Several owners reported complete transmission failure. Fortunately, Ford fixed most of these issues with the newer models by replacing the old unit with a modern 8-speed setup that offers better reliability and performance.
Reliability
Although some of the early models had reliability issues, Ford quickly repaired most of them, and the current reliability rating by J.D. Power stands at 3 out of 5, which is average for its class. The most reliable model was the 2014 model with a rating of 4 out of 5.
Maintenance cost is also on the higher side, crossing $600 per year, which is slightly higher than the industry average. To avoid high repair bills and improve reliability, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and repair all issues before they snowball into something major.
Longevity compared to competitors
As expected, almost all its rivals, especially Japanese models like the Honda Pilot can outlast the Ford Edge easily, remaining serviceable even after 300,000 miles. However, the Pilot has severe rusting issues that can crop up even when the car is new, leading to early repairs.
Compared to Hyundai Santa Fe, the Ford Edge is easier to maintain with lower service and repair costs.
In conclusion, the Ford Edge can easily last a long time and can outlast most of its rivals if properly maintained.