The 2011 Ford Escape XLT is a moderately easy car to maintain but it does have its share of lengthy procedures. Accessing the second parking light will require the wheel well lining to be removed and will be a tight fit overall. The cabin air filter will require a couple of panels in the cowl to be removed, which are held on by multiple fasteners. The spare tire has an problematic design that exposes it to the elements, while also requiring the removal of a fastening bolt before it can be reliably lowered from the vehicle.
However, there are many positives to the 2011 Ford Escape XLT. The rest of the headlights are easily accessible by simply reaching behind their bulb housings. The transmission fluid dipstick is relatively easy to find, remove, and read its fluid levels. The battery has a simple bracket construction that allows for quick and easy removal when necessary.
Hans Angermeier has produced over 100,000 videos showing drivers how to fix things on their cars. He has broad expertise on basic repair procedures covering the majority of cars on the road.