The Ford Escape, like most modern vehicles, features multiple fuse boxes that protect various electrical circuits from damage due to excessive current. Knowing the location of these fuse boxes is essential for diagnosing electrical issues and replacing blown fuses. Ford has strategically positioned these fuse boxes in different areas of the vehicle, each controlling specific electrical systems.

Ford Escape Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel Location Behind Glove Box 

The primary fuse box that controls most of the interior electrical components is inside the passenger compartment. This fuse panel is on the right side of the dashboard, tucked away behind the glove box. To access this fuse box, you’ll need to open the glove box and remove its contents. Look for the two side tabs or stoppers that limit how far the glove box opens. By pressing inward on both sides simultaneously, you can lower the glove box completely, revealing the fuse panel behind it.

This location houses fuses for interior lights, power windows, door locks, radio, instrument cluster, and various other cabin electronics. The passenger compartment fuse panel typically contains smaller amperage fuses, mostly in the 5-20 amp range. A fuse diagram is usually on the panel cover or in the owner’s manual, identifying what each fuse controls.

Ford Escape Under Hood Power Distribution Box Location Engine Compartment

The power distribution box, often called the main fuse box, sits in the engine compartment. In most Ford Escape models, it rests on the driver’s side (left) near the front of the engine bay. To access the fuses inside, you must unlatch the plastic protective cover.

The power distribution box houses higher amperage fuses and relays that control major vehicle systems such as the engine management system, cooling fans, fuel pump, starter motor, alternator, and other high-current components. This box typically contains a mix of mini-fuses and larger JCase or cartridge fuses, as well as numerous relays. Due to its location in the engine compartment, this fuse box is exposed to more extreme temperatures and environmental conditions, which is why it has a weatherproof cover.

Ford Escape Luggage Compartment Fuse Panel Location Trunk Access Procedures

Newer Ford Escape models (particularly from 2013 onward) feature a third fuse box located in the luggage compartment. This fuse panel is behind the passenger-side wheel well trim in the cargo area. To access it, you may need to remove or fold back a portion of the trunk liner or side panel.

This luggage compartment fuse box typically controls rear electrical components such as the power liftgate, rear power outlets, rear wiper, and other accessories located in the back of the vehicle. This fuse panel was introduced as vehicles became more complex with additional powered features in the rear section.

Ford Escape Fuse Box Identification, Colour Coding, And Amperage Ratings Explained

Ford uses a standardized colour-coding system for fuses across all their vehicles, including the Escape. This colour coding immediately identifies the amperage rating of each fuse without having to remove it for inspection. The colour system follows industry standards:

• Gray: 5 amp
• Brown: 7.5 amp
• Red: 10 amp
• Blue: 15 amp
• Yellow: 20 amp
• White: 25 amp
• Green: 30 amp
• Orange: 40 amp

In addition to mini blade fuses, the power distribution box also contains larger JCase or cartridge fuses for higher amperage circuits (typically 30-60 amps). These larger fuses protect major electrical systems and are often labelled with their amperage rating directly on the top of the fuse. Understanding this colour coding helps owners quickly identify fuse ratings when replacements are needed.

Ford Escape Fuse Removal Tools And Replacement Procedures Step By Step

Each fuse box in the Ford Escape should contain a plastic fuse puller tool, usually clipped inside the fuse box cover. This specialized tool makes it easier to safely remove fuses without damaging them or risking electrical shock. If the fuse puller is missing, needle-nose pliers can be used as an alternative, though you should take extra care not to damage surrounding components.

To replace a fuse, first identify the failed fuse by consulting the diagram in the owner’s manual or on the fuse box cover. A blown fuse typically shows a broken metal strip inside the transparent top section. When replacing fuses, always use the exact same amperage rating as the original. Using a higher-rated fuse could allow excessive current flow and potentially damage electrical components or even cause a fire. Using a lower-rated fuse may result in premature fuse failure during normal operation.

Ford Escape Electrical Troubleshooting Using Fuse Box Testing Points And Diagnostics

The Ford Escape fuse boxes provide convenient diagnostic points for electrical troubleshooting. In addition to housing fuses, these panels contain relays that control various systems. By swapping identical relays, you can quickly determine if a relay is the cause of an electrical failure.

The power distribution box also features testing points where you can connect a multimeter to check voltage and verify proper operation of electrical circuits. When diagnosing electrical issues, it’s often helpful to start by checking the relevant fuses. However, a good fuse doesn’t necessarily mean the circuit is functioning correctly—it only indicates that there hasn’t been a short circuit or excessive current draw.

For more complex issues, you can access the vehicle’s diagnostic system through the data link connector, which is related to fuse 73 in the passenger compartment fuse panel on many Escape models. This connection point allows technicians to communicate with the vehicle’s onboard computers for advanced diagnostics.

Ford Escape Emergency Fuse Replacement When Stranded Roadside Solutions

In emergency situations where a critical fuse has blown and no replacement is immediately available, there are temporary solutions. While not recommended for long-term use, in a roadside emergency, you may be able to swap a non-essential fuse of the same amperage to temporarily restore operation of a critical system.

For example, if the fuel pump fuse blows while driving in a remote area, you could temporarily use the fuse from a non-essential circuit like the cigarette lighter or rear wiper to get the vehicle to a service location. However, this should only be done in true emergencies, as the original fuse likely blew to protect a circuit from damage. 

It’s always advisable to keep a small assortment of spare fuses in the vehicle for roadside emergencies. A basic kit with a few common fuse ratings (10A, 15A, 20A, and 30A) can be stored in the glove compartment and may save you from being stranded due to a simple fuse failure.

—

5 Facts About Ford Escape Fuse Boxes

1. Evolutionary Design: The first-generation Ford Escape (2001-2007) featured only two fuse boxes, while newer models added a third fuse panel in the cargo area as the vehicle’s electrical systems became more complex with additional features and safety systems.
2. Hidden Backup Fuse: Many Ford Escape models include one or two spare fuses of common amperage ratings tucked into a special holder inside the fuse box cover—a thoughtful design element many owners never discover until they read the manual.
3. Temperature Sensitive Placement: The power distribution box in the engine compartment is specifically designed with heat-resistant materials and positioned to minimize exposure to water spray from the engine bay, with drainage channels built into the cover design.
4. Smart Junction Box Evolution: Starting with the 2013 model, Ford introduced a sophisticated Smart Junction Box that can diagnose its own fuse and relay issues, reporting problems through the vehicle’s diagnostic system without requiring physical inspection.
5. Historical Context: The term “fuse box” is becoming outdated in automotive terminology; the Ford official documentation now refers to these as “Smart Junction Boxes” or “Power Distribution Boxes,” reflecting their evolution from simple fuse holders to complex electronic control points.

Q&A: Ford Escape Fuse Box Location

Where is the interior fuse box located in a Ford Escape?

• The interior fuse box (passenger compartment fuse panel) is on the right side of the dashboard, behind the glove box. To access it, you need to open the glove box, press the side tabs inward, and lower the glove box completely. The fuse panel will be visible behind the glove box opening.

How do I access the under-hood fuse box in my Ford Escape?

• The under-hood fuse box (power distribution box) is in the engine compartment, typically on the driver’s side (left side). It has a plastic cover with clips or a latch that needs to be released to open it. On some models, you may need to press a release tab at the rear of the cover and then lift from the back edge.

Does the Ford Escape have multiple fuse boxes?

• Yes, depending on the model year, it has either two or three fuse boxes. All models have a passenger compartment fuse panel behind the glove box and a power distribution box under the hood. Models from 2013 onward also feature a third fuse box in the luggage compartment behind the passenger-side wheel well.

What tools do I need to change a fuse in my Ford Escape?

• A plastic fuse puller tool should come with your vehicle, typically clipped inside one of the fuse box covers. If missing, you can use needle-nose pliers as an alternative. A flashlight may also be helpful, especially when accessing the passenger compartment fuse panel behind the glove box.

How can I tell if a fuse is blown in my Ford Escape?

• You can identify a blown fuse by looking at the transparent top portion of the fuse. A good fuse will have an intact metal strip connecting both metal prongs, while a blown fuse will show a gap or break in this metal strip. Some fuses may appear darkened or melted when blown.

Can I replace a blown fuse with any fuse of the same colour?

• While fuse colours indicate amperage ratings, it’s always best to replace a fuse with one of the same amperage rating as specified in your owner’s manual or on the fuse box diagram. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating could damage electrical components or create a fire hazard.

Why does my Ford Escape have a fuse box in the cargo area?

• Newer models (2013 and later) include a luggage compartment fuse panel to control electrical components specific to the rear of the vehicle, such as the power liftgate, rear wiper, rear power outlets, and trailer lighting. This additional fuse box allows for more efficient wiring layouts and easier service access.

What causes fuses to blow repeatedly in a Ford Escape?

• Repeatedly blown fuses typically indicate an underlying electrical problem such as a short circuit, damaged wiring, or a failing component drawing excessive current. If a replacement fuse blows immediately or shortly after installation, there’s likely a more serious electrical issue that requires professional diagnosis and repair.

Are fuse locations the same in all Ford Escape model years?

• No, fuse locations and configurations can vary between different generations and model years. Always refer to your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual for the correct fuse box diagram and fuse assignments, as these can change significantly across model years.

Should I carry spare fuses in my Ford Escape?

• Yes, keep a small assortment of commonly used fuse ratings in your vehicle. Store a basic kit with 10A, 15A, 20A, and 30A fuses in the glove compartment. This simple preparation prevents being stranded by a minor electrical issue that a fuse replacement can resolve.