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P0685 on FORD ESCAPE

ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open

NHTSA Reports
3
Severity
Medium
Most Affected
2005, 2008, 2011
Crashes / Fires
0 / 0
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012

What P0685 Means on Your FORD ESCAPE

P0685 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open. This code relates to the computer and output circuits system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

3 FORD ESCAPE owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2005-2011. Most reports come from the 2005, 2008 model years.

Real FORD ESCAPE Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"Re: 2005 ford escape hybrid defect in throttle body electronic throttle body malfunction nhtsa action number: dp12006 opened 10/2/2012 dear nhtsa, around 4 months ago, we purchased a used 2005 ford escape hybrid in north carolina."

— 2005 FORD ESCAPE owner · FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 08/22/2016

"My awd 2008 ford escape hybridv, with around 64,000 miles, started having braking problems, when the brake and abs cluster lights turned on when the car started. when i shift into any gear, the "regen brake disabled" warning comes on. i tried to revers at 5 mph and the car would barely brake."

— 2008 FORD ESCAPE owner · SERVICE BRAKES · Filed 05/06/2017

"Check engine light came on and vehicle lost power and died. pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle for a few minutes, then turned it on and was able to proceed for another 5-6 miles, then the issue repeated. check engine light remained on, however."

— 2011 FORD ESCAPE owner · ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM · Filed 11/05/2012

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1
'05
1
'08
1
'11

Common Causes on FORD ESCAPE

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 33.3%
SERVICE BRAKES 33.3%
ENGINE and ENGINE COOLING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM 33.3%

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0685 mean on a FORD ESCAPE? ▾
P0685 indicates: ECM/PCM Power Relay Control Circuit/Open. This is a computer and output circuits code. 3 FORD ESCAPE owners have reported this to NHTSA.
What are the most common causes of P0685 on FORD ESCAPE? ▾
Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Fuel/Propulsion System, Service Brakes, Engine And Engine Cooling,Fuel/Propulsion System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.
Is P0685 serious on my FORD ESCAPE? ▾
Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD ESCAPE, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.
What should I do if my FORD ESCAPE shows P0685? ▾
1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.

P0685 on Other Vehicles

HONDA ACCORD
2 reports
→ All codes reported on FORD ESCAPE