Used Ford Edge 2nd Gen (2015-2023): Buyer's Guide

The 2017 Ford Edge generated 1,229 NHTSA complaints. The 2021 generated 90. Same platform. Same basic shape. Completely different ownership story.

The difference starts with one engine: the 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder. Pre-2020 versions carry a structural flaw cast into the engine block, one Ford documented in multiple TSBs but never issued a recall to fix. Coolant migrates into the cylinders, the engine misfires, and the only approved repair is a full long block replacement. Cost: $3,600 to $8,500.

The Edge is a genuinely good mid-size crossover. Strong interior, capable chassis, real powertrain variety. But the VIN you check and the cold-start inspection you do before signing will matter more here than on almost any other mid-size SUV.

This is the guide you read the night before the test drive.

This Generation at a Glance

The 2nd gen Edge launched in 2015 as a complete redesign on the CD4 platform, shared with the Lincoln Nautilus (sold as the MKX through 2018). Ford built it through 2023. One substantial mid-cycle refresh arrived for 2019.

The 2019 refresh was a real mechanical pivot. Ford replaced the 6-speed automatic with an 8-speed across all trims, dropped the base 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 entirely, and introduced the Edge ST as the new performance flagship, replacing the Edge Sport. Output on the twin-turbo V6 increased from 315 hp to 335 hp. A rotary gear selector replaced the floor-mounted lever. Ford's Co-Pilot360 advanced safety suite became standard.

Pre-2019 and post-2019 models are different enough to evaluate as separate purchases.

Inventory by year: 2019 · 2020 · 2021 · 2022 · 2023.

Powertrain and Trim Breakdown

2.0L EcoBoost I4 (2015-2023): The Engine to Inspect Carefully

The 2.0L EcoBoost is the volume engine of the 2nd gen Edge. It powers every SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST-Line. Most used Edges you'll find are 2.0L.

The problem is structural. The second-generation 2.0L EcoBoost uses an open-deck engine block with large cooling slots machined between the cylinder walls. This design aids engine cooling but leaves insufficient surface area for the head gasket to seal properly. Under operating conditions, coolant migrates into the combustion chambers, typically cylinder three. Symptoms: white exhaust smoke at cold start, misfires logged as P0300 through P0304 or P0316, unexplained coolant loss, and a sweet smell near the engine bay.

The critical detail every buyer needs to understand: there is no standalone head gasket available for this engine. Ford built it without a serviceable gasket at that interface. The only approved repair is complete long block replacement. Owners report costs from $3,600 to $8,500 depending on dealer versus independent shop and parts availability.

Ford acknowledged the failure pattern in TSB 19-2172 (covering 2015-2019 models), directing technicians to inspect for coolant intrusion and replace the long block as necessary. Two more TSBs followed in June 2022: 22-2133 and 22-2229. Ford has not issued a recall. NHTSA complaint records show over 100,000 reports referencing the same failure across Ford's EcoBoost four-cylinder lineup. On FordEdgeForum.com, threads from this era have owners reporting replaced engines within 10,000 miles of each other.

The 2017 model year is the worst single year of the generation: 467 engine complaints and 189 engine cooling system complaints out of 1,229 total. That year sits squarely in the peak window of the coolant issue.

For 2020, Ford partially addressed the design by replacing the large open cooling slots with smaller pinhole-sized passages between cylinder walls, giving the head gasket more sealing surface. The redesign reduced but did not eliminate the failure. Some 2020-plus owners report the same symptoms, though at substantially lower rates than pre-2020 models. The 2021-2023 window is the lowest-risk period for the 2.0L.

The transmission matters too. On 2015-2018 models, the 2.0L paired with a 6-speed SelectShift automatic. Recall 18V390000 (issued July 2018) covered 2017-2018 Edges with the 2.0L and 6-speed automatic: improperly welded torque converter studs could cause complete loss of propulsion. Verify this recall is marked complete before buying any 2017-2018 2.0L Edge.

The 2019-plus 8-speed automatic introduced its own documented behavior: shuddering and bucking at low speeds between 20 and 35 mph, most noticeable when cold. A TSB exists for transmission reprogramming. If you notice rough 3-to-4 gear shifts during a test drive on any 2019-plus 2.0L Edge, ask about TSB completion before walking away.

3.5L Ti-VCT V6 (2015-2018): The Underrated Option

The 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 appeared only in 2015-2018 SE and SEL trims. Ford dropped it entirely for the 2019 refresh. It produces 245 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque at a modest 21 mpg combined. Less efficient than the 2.0L, but it does not have the coolant intrusion problem.

Owner forums and complaint data consistently identify the 3.5L as the most reliable 2015-2018 Edge powertrain. The engine is a proven design with no generation-defining failure pattern. If you are buying a 2015-2018 Edge and reliability is the priority, the 3.5L is worth searching for specifically, even if the trim is lower than you'd prefer.

Isolated reports exist of 3.5L transmission issues on early 2015-2016 units: clutch pack and snap ring failures in the 6-speed automatic, with repair quotes over $4,000. These are not widespread, but a transmission fluid check and attention to shift quality during the test drive is still warranted.

The tradeoff is mileage. 3.5L Edges trade at lower prices and carry higher average mileage than equivalent 2.0L units. A well-maintained 2016 3.5L SE at 110,000 miles, where the engine has no structural risk and the drivetrain is proven, is often a better buy than a 2016 2.0L Titanium at 80,000 miles with an untested block.

2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Edge Sport 2015-2018, Edge ST 2019-2023): The Performance Choice

The 2.7L twin-turbo V6 is Edge-only in the Sport and ST trims. Every 2.7L Edge is AWD. It produces 315 hp in the Sport and 335 hp in the ST. For buyers who want the performance package, this is the engine to have. It is also more reliable than the 2.0L for Edge applications, with specific rather than universal failure modes.

Valve guide defect (2016-early 2017 Sport): Engines produced between April 2016 and January 2017 have a documented valve guide manufacturing defect. Defective guides allow oil into the combustion chamber. The primary symptom is blue smoke from the tailpipe at startup that does not clear as the engine warms. Oil consumption may reach one quart per 3,000 miles. This is a production batch issue, not universal to the 2.7L. If you are looking at a 2016 or early 2017 Edge Sport, start the engine cold and watch the tailpipe for blue smoke. Ask about oil consumption history.

Carbon composite oil pan leaks: The 2.7L uses a carbon-fiber composite oil pan attached with an adhesive bond. On some units the adhesive fails, producing oil leaks at the pan seam. Symptoms are visible oil pooling on the ground or a burning oil smell during hard driving. The fix is pan replacement.

Intake valve recall 24S55 (2021-2022 Edge ST): This is the most important item for any buyer looking at a 2021-2022 Edge ST. In September 2024, Ford recalled approximately 90,000 vehicles equipped with the 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engines, including 2021-2022 Ford Edge models built between May 10 and October 29, 2021. The intake valves may crack and break, causing complete loss of engine power and a potential crash. Dealers perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine if necessary, at no charge. Ford began notifying owners in late 2024.

If you are buying a 2021-2022 Edge ST, look up the VIN on owner.ford.com before the test drive. An unrepaired 24S55 on a $25,000 vehicle is a dealbreaker until the dealer confirms the repair is complete.

The 2019-2020 Edge ST sits outside the intake valve recall production window and avoids the 2016-2017 valve guide defect. These are the cleanest 2.7L options if you want the ST platform without either recall complication. The 2019 ST has a documented surge and hesitation issue under acceleration; Ford issued a TSB for software correction. Confirm the TSB was applied.

Overall: a properly maintained 2.7L EcoBoost Edge exceeds 150,000 miles with no major structural failures. The issues are specific and checkable at purchase, which gives the pre-purchase inspection a clear roadmap.

AWD Power Transfer Unit: The Hidden Maintenance Item

Every AWD Edge regardless of engine uses a Power Transfer Unit to transfer torque to the rear axle. Ford labeled the PTU gear oil as "lifetime fill" with no published service interval.

The PTU sits adjacent to the exhaust system and operates at sustained high temperatures. The factory gear oil degrades from heat over time. With no fluid changes, the lubricant loses viscosity, the unit runs dry under load, and eventually whines, leaks, and seizes. Replacement cost: $1,500 to $2,500 in parts and labor.

The fix is consistent among mechanics and Edge forum members: change the PTU fluid every 30,000 miles using a quality full synthetic 75W-140 gear oil. Many Edge PTUs do not have a drain plug. The fluid must be extracted through the fill hole with a suction pump. An independent shop can perform this service for $150 to $200.

Before buying any AWD Edge, ask directly when the PTU fluid was last serviced. If the seller doesn't know or says "it's lifetime fluid, it never needs changing," price your offer accordingly. On a 100,000-mile Edge with no PTU service history, budget for potential replacement.

Trim-Specific Notes

SE: The base trim, 2.0L only on most years (3.5L also available 2015-2018). No heated seats, basic SYNC screen, minimal driver assists. Cheapest to buy, but the feature gap versus SEL is real. Only worth it if the price is substantially below SEL equivalents.

SEL: The volume trim and the best value in the lineup. Adds heated front seats, blind spot monitoring, and SYNC 3. Most of the used inventory sits here.

Titanium: The premium daily driver. Leather seating, panoramic sunroof option (see 2017 recall 17V205000 for pano-roof windshield header weld on affected units), dual-zone climate, larger touchscreen. Worth paying up if these features matter to you. Avoid earliest Titaniums (2015-2016) without verified engine history.

Edge Sport (2015-2018): The 2.7L twin-turbo V6 with sport suspension tuning. A better powertrain reliability profile than the 2.0L. Watch for the April 2016 to January 2017 valve guide production window and listen for blue smoke on cold start. The Sport is AWD-only, which adds PTU maintenance to the ownership picture.

Edge ST (2019-2023): The performance flagship. 335 hp, 8-speed automatic, full Co-Pilot360 as standard, sport suspension. The most expensive used option. For 2021-2022 ST buyers, recall 24S55 verification is mandatory before purchase. A 2020 Edge ST with documented PTU fluid service and confirmed TSB completion is the cleanest combination in the lineup.

ST-Line (2021-2023): A visual sport package on the 2.0L platform. Sportier exterior styling, same safety features as the ST, none of the 2.7L complexity or pricing premium. A sound choice for buyers who want the aesthetic without the performance overhead.

Which Year Ford Edge 2nd Gen Is Best?

Avoid the 2017. It has the highest complaint count in the generation by a wide margin (1,229 vs. 838 for the second-worst year), the most reported crashes (24), and falls squarely in the peak window of the 2.0L coolant intrusion problem. No feature or price discount justifies the risk over a post-2019 model.

The 2021-2023 window is the sweet spot for most buyers. The 2.0L block revision, minimal complaints, and easy-to-verify recalls make these the lowest-risk Edges on the market. The 2021-2022 Edge ST requires the 24S55 recall check, but once confirmed as repaired, it is an excellent vehicle.

If you are buying pre-2019: target the 3.5L V6 in a 2016 or 2018 if the price is right, or the 2.7L Sport while avoiding the April 2016 to January 2017 production window. The 2.0L in 2015-2019 requires either documented engine replacement history or an independent compression test before money changes hands.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

All 2nd gen Edge models:

• Start the engine cold. Watch the tailpipe for white smoke or steam that does not clear within three to four minutes of warmup. On any pre-2020 2.0L EcoBoost, white smoke after warmup means coolant in the cylinders. Stop the inspection.
• Pull the oil dipstick before the engine reaches operating temperature. Milky, frothy, or gray-brown oil indicates coolant contamination. Do not purchase without a current shop inspection.
• Check the coolant reservoir level. Unexplained low coolant, a sweet smell near the engine, or residue on the reservoir cap are all red flags on the 2.0L.
• Run the VIN through /tools/recall-lookup. Multiple open campaigns exist across this generation.
• Cycle the SYNC infotainment screen through several menus. Blank screen, slow loading, or freezing points to APIM module failure. Replacement cost: $300 to $800. It is a negotiating point.
• Test all four exterior door handles. Loose handles or keyless entry that fails to activate reliably indicate door handle sensor failure. Budget $200 to $400 per handle.

AWD models, any year or engine:

• Ask directly: when was the PTU fluid last changed? If never, or if mileage exceeds 60,000 with no record, adjust your offer by at least $300 to cover the service. At 100,000-plus miles with no service history, budget for potential PTU replacement.
• On the test drive, listen for a whine or grinding noise from the front axle area, especially during low-speed turns. That is a PTU in distress.

2.0L EcoBoost, 2015-2019 specifically:

• A cold compression test at an independent shop costs $100 to $150 and will confirm coolant intrusion before you commit. On any 2.0L Edge over 60,000 miles without documented engine history, this is not optional.
• Verify recall 18V390000 is marked complete on 2017-2018 2.0L models with 6-speed automatic. This is the torque converter stud weld recall. An open recall here means unannounced loss of propulsion is possible.

2021-2022 Edge ST only:

• Check recall 24S55 status at owner.ford.com using the VIN before any other step. Ford expects dealers to perform an engine inspection and replace the engine if valves are cracked. If 24S55 shows as open (not repaired), do not complete the purchase until the dealer confirms when it will be remedied.

2016-2017 Edge Sport with 2.7L:

• Cold start, tailpipe observation for blue smoke. Blue smoke that persists past warmup is the valve guide defect in engines from the April 2016 to January 2017 production window. Check the driver door jamb sticker for the manufacture date.

Running Costs

Pre-2020 2.0L EcoBoost cost estimates above do not include the potential $3,600 to $8,500 long block replacement. That repair is not universal but is common enough to price into any pre-2020 2.0L purchase.

Both EcoBoost engines require full synthetic motor oil. The 2.7L is particularly sensitive to oil quality and change intervals. Skipping a change or using conventional oil shortens its service life. If a seller cannot produce service records for a 2.7L Edge, that is a meaningful data point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Edge 2.0L EcoBoost reliable? Pre-2020 versions have a documented coolant intrusion problem from an open-deck block design. Coolant enters the cylinders, the engine misfires, and the only fix is a long block replacement costing $3,600 to $8,500. Ford issued TSBs but no recall. The 2020-plus 2.0L was partially redesigned with smaller cooling passages and carries substantially lower but not zero risk. For a reliable 2.0L Edge, target 2021 or later.

Which year Ford Edge 2nd gen should I avoid? The 2017. It generated 1,229 NHTSA complaints, more than any other year in the generation, including 467 engine complaints and 24 crash reports. It sits at the peak of the 2.0L EcoBoost coolant problem, with no features that justify the risk over a 2020 or later model.

What is the difference between the Ford Edge Sport and Edge ST? The Edge Sport (2015-2018) produced 315 hp from the 2.7L twin-turbo V6 paired to a 6-speed automatic. The Edge ST (2019-2023) added 20 hp for 335 total, moved to the 8-speed automatic, and came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features. Both are AWD-only. The ST also introduced recall 24S55 on 2021-2022 units built in a specific production window.

How many miles will a Ford Edge 2nd gen last? The 3.5L V6 and 2.7L EcoBoost can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles with consistent maintenance. The 2.0L EcoBoost is the variable. Pre-2020 engines that develop the coolant intrusion issue typically fail between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. A pre-2020 2.0L that has already passed 100,000 miles without incident is lower risk than a lower-mileage example with no service history, but still warrants a compression test.

Does the Ford Edge AWD have drivetrain problems? The AWD system itself is sound. The issue is the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) fluid, labeled "lifetime" by Ford but prone to heat degradation from exhaust proximity. Independent mechanics and FordEdgeForum.com consistently recommend PTU fluid changes every 30,000 miles using 75W-140 full synthetic gear oil. Neglected PTUs fail at roughly $1,500 to $2,500 to replace. Ask about PTU service history on every AWD Edge you consider.

Bottom Line

The 2021-2023 2.0L Edge is the lowest-risk, most feature-complete version of this generation. If you want the performance package, a 2019-2020 Edge ST with documented PTU fluid service is the cleanest 2.7L combination available. Avoid the 2017 entirely. On any pre-2020 2.0L over 60,000 miles, require an independent cold compression test or documented engine replacement before committing.

Run every VIN through a recall check. CarScout members can track price drops on specific Edge trims and years. Plans start at $5 per week at usecarscout.com.

Data sourced from NHTSA recalls and complaints database, EPA fuel economy data, and real owner experiences from FordEdgeForum.com, Ford Authority forums, BobIsTheOilGuy, CarGurus community discussions, RepairPal complaint records, and CarComplaints.com. See the full Ford Edge market data for current pricing and inventory.