2012 Ford Escape problems

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The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year. The first Ford SUV derived from a car platform, the Escape fell below the Ford Explorer in size; the Escape is currently sized between the Ford EcoSport and Ford Edge. The 2004 Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid-electric vehicle from Ford, and the first hybrid produced as an SUV.

The first two generations of the Escape used the Ford CD2 platform (jointly developed with Mazda), leading to the release of the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner; as with the Escape, both the Tribute and Mariner were marketed in North America. In Europe, the Escape was initially branded as the Ford Maverick from 2001 to 2008 (replacing a Nissan-produced SUV).

Under the mid-2000s "One Ford" globalization strategy, the third and fourth-generation designs of the Escape have been unified with the Ford Kuga, designed by Ford of Europe. Sharing a common body and chassis underpinnings (and several engines), the Escape and Kuga are manufactured in their home markets. As with previous generations, the fourth-generation Escape is offered with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Outside of North America, the Ford Escape is marketed in Australia, China, and Taiwan.

2012 Ford Escape

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Common 2012 Ford Escape problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2012 Ford Escape, several common problems have been reported:

  • Check Engine Light and Hesitation While Driving:
    • Another common problem is the check engine light coming on with hesitation or stumbling while driving, indicating potential issues with engine performance or fuel delivery. This issue can affect the vehicle's drivability and may require diagnostic testing to pinpoint the exact cause.
  • Internal Transfer Case Problem on 4WD Models:
    • Owners of 4WD models have reported transfer case issues, which can lead to drivetrain problems and affect the vehicle's ability to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes. Repairing transfer case issues can be costly and may require professional intervention.
  • Transmission Issues:
    • One of the most common complaints from owners is related to transmission problems, including complete transmission failure and rough shifting/gear slipping when changing gears. Addressing transmission issues can be expensive, with potential costs exceeding $3000 for a complete transmission replacement.
  • Rust Issues:
    • Rust problems have also been reported by owners, requiring attention to prevent further corrosion and maintain the vehicle's structural integrity. Repairing rust issues can be costly, with potential costs around $1200.

These common problems with the 2012 Ford Escape highlight the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance when considering a used purchase. Addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the vehicle's reliability and longevity.

2012 Ford Escape engine

Does the 2012 Ford Escape have problems?

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

How many miles will a 2012 Ford Escape last?

The pre-2013 versions and hybrid models can last up to 300,000 miles, while those from after 2013 will only last around 200,000 miles. If you decide the Ford Escape is for you, ensure you properly maintain it to keep it in the best shape and to keep breaks at bay.

What was the worst year for the Ford Escape?

A: Buyers should avoid the 2013, 2014, and 2008 Ford Escape models. These years are known for significant reliability issues, with the 2013 and 2014 models having serious engine and transmission problems and the 2008 model experiencing the most complaints regarding transmission and steering system issues.

Is there any recalls on a 2012 Ford Escape?

Fuel system, gasoline

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010.

Does the 2012 Ford Escape have problems?

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

How many miles will a 2012 Ford Escape last?

The pre-2013 versions and hybrid models can last up to 300,000 miles, while those from after 2013 will only last around 200,000 miles. If you decide the Ford Escape is for you, ensure you properly maintain it to keep it in the best shape and to keep breaks at bay.

Is Ford Escape high maintenance?

A Ford Escape will cost about $8,721 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular SUV models by $412. There is also a 26.60% chance that an Escape will require a major repair during that time.

What is the average value of a 2012 Ford Escape?

Used 2012 Ford Escape Pricing

Original MSRPKBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average)
XLS Sport Utility 4D$25,520$6,290
XLT Sport Utility 4D$25,695$5,993
Limited Sport Utility 4D$28,745$7,240
Hybrid Sport Utility 4D$31,745$7,869

2012 Ford Escape car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Escape problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Steering problems
  • Engine problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Ford Escape vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2012 Ford Escape

The NHTSA has received 572 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Ford Escape. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Ford Escape vehicles.

2024-10-23

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
  • VIN: 1FMCU9D72CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH and turning right onto a main road, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact pulled over and turned off and restarted the vehicle to reset the steering functionality. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the steering torque sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 127,170.
2024-10-13

STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 1FMCU9EG4CK
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Sub frame cracked,due to corrosion.Broke Lower control arm. I could not steer my SUV. I was terrified.The noise was so loud. This happened a road away from my home. I called AAA. They came and towed my vehicle to my driveway. I don’t understand why Ford company did not send me a recall. I could have been killed.I was on the highway a day before.I have researched and found this to be a safety concern for Ford Escape 2012. My SUV has 60.000 miles and is in very good condition. I have taken great care of my vehicle.
2024-10-10

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
  • VIN: 1FMCU0E74CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed; the lever under the steering column was used to adjust the steering wheel, which caused the steering wheel to detach. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
2024-09-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-30
  • VIN: 1FMCU9EG8CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The power steering fails without warning. I have been waiting on a new part for months with no ETA from Ford.
2024-09-10

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-10
  • VIN: 1FMCU0DG2CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated that the power steering assist had failed without warning while driving at various speeds. The contact then pulled over to the side of the road, turned off and then restarted the vehicle and the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V284000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000.
2024-08-28

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMCU9E71CK
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while pulling into a parking space the vehicle suddenly accelerated hitting a parking sign causing it to fall and hit another vehicle. Then the vehicle crashed into another parked vehicle. The vehicle's passenger side of the bumper and headlight had been damaged. The vehicle was able to be steered in another direction while the brake pedal was aggressively pressed causing the vehicle to come to a stop. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle that the parking sign fell onto had received paint damage on the hood of the vehicle and the parked vehicle's bumper had detached from the vehicle. There were no injuries. No medical attention was needed. A police report was filed. The The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the throttle body had failed. The mechanic had shared that the vehicle was included in a TSB (ID number unknown). The contact had called the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was no longer covered under the TSB due to the time duration at which it was active had since passed. The vehicle had been repaired by the mechanic. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the diagnosis was confirmed and the throttle body was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 135,000.
2024-08-11

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-11
  • VIN: 1FMCU9DG4CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The power steering turned off while driving. I have an electrical power steering system. Almost crashed because it was too hard to turn. No warning lamps or inspection done
2024-08-01

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
  • VIN: 1FMCU9DG0CK
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle pulled to the right while stopping. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the passenger's side engine cradle subframe was severely corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
2024-06-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
  • VIN: 1FMCU0EGXCK
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the gear shifter was shifted into drive however, the gear shifter failed to respond as intended. The contact stated that after several attempts, the gear shifter responded as needed. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed of an unknown recall with a similar failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
2024-06-10

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
  • VIN: 1FMCU9D74CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Ford Dealership diagnosed with Code B2278, Power Steering Torque Angle sensor malfunction. I see recalls on same item for many years up to 2011, but my 2012 not included. Many on web describing the same problem with their 2012 Ford Escape. Only have 131,000 miles. Has spoken to service advisors from several Ford dealerships and all have said they see this same problem all the time in 2012 Escapes. It's a safety matter because you drive down the road and it goes out, especially when slowing down the power steering goes out, meaning the steering wheel stiffens to manual mode, even while turning. Many times the engine shuts off. Then in a complete stop while on the road, turning key off/on resets the EPAS steering. This sequence has happened several times. Is dangerous to drive. Don't feel safe letting wife or daughter drive it. All this same info provided to Ford dealership, and also called Ford Corporate customer service and they logged me in. Seems a recall should be in order if it affects as many 2012's Ford Escapes as projected from basic web searches. I need a drivable vehicle so I'll proceed to get it fixed, as it's too hazardous to drive as is. Thank you for attention to this matter.
2024-04-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
  • VIN: 1FMCU9DG6CK
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: This is a second car so don't drive it every day -- first incident occurred back in 2023 driving in town and car stopped!! Rolled to side and it started back up -- this happened several times and was very hesitant to drive on any highways. Several days the car would not start -- looked on line trying to figure out what was wrong and saw many people were having similar issues but nothing resolved -- battery tested fine but got a new battery from AAA but the next day battery was dead again. My husband did some more research and decided to pull the fuse for the radio and the front display module and the car has not stalled nor the battery been dead since but have been driving without a radio. I had to go on a five hour drive (both ways) last weekend and not fun driving that long without a radio. Stopped by a AAA repair shop yesterday and they said they had many complaints about the radio causing this problem (two actually that morning) and to call Ford to see if there was a recall. I called Ford this morning and the answer was NO! They told me to take it to a Ford Dealer (which is not convenient) and to have it diagnosed but again from what I have read Ford does not have any solutions to this problem. Wanted to get on file to let other people with this same issue to try removing the radio fuses (#14, #28, #39) but they would have no radio either. If I get the radio replaced not sure if that would create other issues and what affect it would have on the anti-theft system.
2024-03-12

STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-11
  • VIN: 1FMCU0EG4CK
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: While doing an exhaust inspection on my car, I noticed the front subframe is rusted completely through on the right hand side near the rear lower control are bushing. This is a major structural component of the vehicle and I believe it is a huge safety risk driving it. The car has around 114,000 miles on it. I feel Ford should issue a recall and replace these rusted trough front subframes. I cannot afford to replace it at the cost of $2000 including labor. Please help, thank you.
2024-02-14

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
  • VIN: 1FMCU9C74CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Power steering has failed a few times while driving. Purchased this Ford 2012 Escape in November 2023. Had 46,412 miles on it. Noticed a howl like a power steering pump. Took it to mechanic and he said there is no pump and that it could be the alternator. Had that replaced. Thought this issue might be part of a recall for that year with the power steering but dealership said no. Continues to howl and have lost power steering so we are not driving it presently. When the power steering fails it becomes hard to steer. Thank goodness it has failed at slower speeds. No warning lights have come on.
2024-02-08

STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
  • VIN: 1FMCU0DG1CK
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving approximately 40-45 MPH, the vehicle was difficult to steer, and was veering to the left independently. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the subframe was detaching the axle from the vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and transferred the call to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
2024-02-07

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
  • VIN: 1FMCU9DG2CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.
2024-02-07

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-07
  • VIN: 1FMCU9E72CK
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Was informed by my mechanic that the subframe has rusted out and is a safety issue. There is also excessive rust for the car's age and level of maintenance in the rear wheel wells.
2024-02-05

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-04
  • VIN: 1FMCU9EG1CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH and tuning into a parking lot, the power steering became inoperable, and the steering wheel failed to turn. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 177,000.
2024-01-26

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-17
  • VIN: 1FMCU9D75CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to steer the vehicle off the road. The contact stopped, turned off, and restarted the vehicle and the vehicle regained proper steering functionality. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
2024-01-16

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-12
  • VIN: 1FMCU0DG9CK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: Power steering failed on my 2012 Ford Escape multiple times, without warning, or any indication light. To fix it required the car to be turned off and on again, which is difficult if you are actively driving. The steering failed while making both left and right hand turns, often at speeds <30mph. 2008-2011 Ford Escape models were recalled for this same issue - 2012 Escapes were never included in the recall however it seems to be the exact same issue. It was brought to the dealership once a year ago to inquire about this issue, but the issue could not be replicated. It was just again brought to the dealership after experiencing a loss of power steering 4 times in 4 days, and they replicated the issue and recorded diagnostic code B2278. It required replacing and reprogramming the steering shaft torque sensor (the exact same fix from the 2014 recall). The safety of this is concerning because Ford knows it is an issue based on the 2014 recall and the loss of power steering comes with no warning light, indication, or prediction. If this happens while driving, it absolutely increases risk of injury to the driver or others, along with increasing the risk of accidents.
2023-12-04

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-02
  • VIN: 1FMCU0EG7CK
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: While coming to a stop sign, as I took my foot off the gas pedal, it surged forward at a fast speed the gas pedal went to the floor. it took me through the intersection and beyond before I was able to stop the car. It was very scary just thinking if there were anyone crossing the street it could have been very bad. Now im afraid to even drive my car not knowing if it will happen again.I call the service and cannot get appt. for 2 weeks. and it will be at my expense.
2023-11-07

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-06
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMCU5K36CK
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: 2012 Ford Escape-while driving the red triangle brake indicator warning light comes on as well as the check brake system indicator light, it beeps and the car feels like it doesn't want to stop at times. This has intermittently been happening and the warning lights seem to reset once the car is turned off and restarted. I took the car in for service and had new tires and brakes put on. The light indicator and braking issue problem did not resolve. Intermittently, you press the brake and it comes to a partial stop then pushes out further and doesn't always stop as it should. On 5/9/2023, I was approaching a stop sign and experienced complete brake failure and was in an accident. Was going around 15-20 mph, the indicator lights came on, the car slowed and then the brake pedal went all the way to the floor and then the car would not stop. I called the mechanic that put the new brakes on and took the car in again for service, he suggested that I take it to another shop. I took the car to the suggested mechanic and they replaced the brakes, rotors, and brake lines. The indicator lights still kept coming on even on the way home from the mechanics shop. I drove right back and they could not find the issue/no codes. On 11/6/2023, while driving at approximately 20 mph, I experienced another complete braking failure. I was leaving the parking lot, suddenly the ABS warning and brake warning indicator light came on and the brakes did not work at all, the pedal went all the way to the floor. I managed to pull off the road and into a parking lot and pulled the emergency brake to stop the car. The second incident was 11/6/2023 and there was no crash, the vehicle was towed. Contacted Ford Dealership-stated there were no recalls on the vehicle. Can supply service records if needed.
2023-10-31

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-29
  • VIN: 1FMCU0D75CK
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was idling in the restaurant drive thru line, the vehicle shut off and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the local mechanic who determined that the battery cable had failed and needed to be replaced. The battery cables were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 110,000.
2023-10-13

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-30
  • VIN: 1FMCU9EG1CK
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated that there was a hole in the sub frame cradle due to rust. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
2023-10-12

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-05
  • VIN: 1FMCU9D76CK
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: My grandmothers vehicle has had an intermittent loss of power steering while driving at slow speeds and is a serious safety concern, the safety recall I had found "14S05" is exactly what's goin on with her vehicle and it matches up exactly to the recall down to the assembly plant other than her vehicle was assembled a year after the recall, but yet these symptoms of this recall is exactly what she is having. She has brought it to multiple ford dealerships and they turn her away unless she pays them over $200? I would fix it as a consumer, but no lights come on or even point me in a proper direction of repairs. There's no warning lights or anything and the only way it can be repaired is by the dealer so how can my grandmother be liable for this if the car tells me nothing is wrong? I have found several accident reports concerning this exact situation with her vehicle, I genuinely fear for her safety. It's been a problem for over 6 months and she just got back to driving again after a surgery and her vehicle has this issue. It was addressed a while back and they claimed there was nothing wrong at a local dealership. I can't fix this vehicle of my grandmothers unless the computer is telling me there is something wrong..... I have had the issue happen myself several occasions just starting the vehicle in place with absolutely no power steering and no check engine light/codes. It's happening intermittently to my grandmother who only drives in the city under 40 mph. She claims it happens multiple times while driving and she has to pull over in the middle of the street to shut her vehicle off and then proceed to restart the vehicle and there's no issues, but then often comes back continuously throughout driving and yet there's no lights or anything. My grandma doesn't have hundreds to spend on diagnosis and the dealer isn't willing to address the safety concern without her spending money. She has kept all documents in case of accidents as she is in fear of one happening.
2023-09-06

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-06
  • VIN: 1FMCU0D7XCK
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 15 MPH, the contact made a right turn, and the vehicle lost power steering functionality and the steering wheel became firm. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by an independent mechanic, and it was determined that the steering torque sensor failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.

2012 Ford Escape recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Ford Escape.

2016-10-26
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
  • Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 13, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S41.
2015-06-03
  • Manufacturer: Timken Company
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
  • Summary: The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
  • Consequence: Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.

Negative 2012 Ford Escape car reviews

  1. Ellsworth Jacobson 2024-10-20

    I really love my 2012 Escape! I chose it over the newer models because it has a V6 engine, which wasn't an option for the other models I was considering. I bought it used in 2014 with 17k miles on it, and I've put 135k miles on it since then. While there is some road noise, it's not too bad. I have noticed some rust around the back wheel wells, but I had a similar issue with my Ford Windstar. Unfortunately, the motor blew at 120k miles, but I was able to replace it and now it's running great with no problems. Recently, I had some water on the ceiling and floor after a hard rain, but I was able to fix it by unclogging the drain tube in the sunroof. Overall, it's a very comfortable and roomy car, perfect for long trips. I plan on keeping it until it falls apart!

  2. Royce Becker 2024-10-11

    I will not purchase another one and cannot wait to get out of this one. However, I believe that the issues I have experienced with my V6 Hybrid Escape are not representative of the quality of Ford vehicles as a whole. While I have had negative experiences with two Ford vehicles in the past, I remain open to considering other models in the future.

  3. Ladarius Hessel 2024-09-08

    Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it 3 years ago and it had 6 cylinders. Unfortunately, this year I noticed some rust issues, specifically Rudy blistered out over the rear wheels. I found out that Ford had a recall on these cars up through 2011 for the same problem, so I hope the recall gets extended to cover 2012. Even though I never heard any more from Ford regarding the rust issue, I decided to sell the car in 2020. Thanks for listening!

  4. Marcelino Corkery 2024-07-22

    I purchased this car brand new and it is now five years old with 75,000 miles. Unfortunately, the car is falling apart. I have noticed rust blistering around the rear wheels, which seems to be a common issue among this model. Additionally, the tailgate is rusted and no longer opens, and the horn is not working. I took it to the dealership and they informed me that the part needed to fix the horn costs $60, but the total cost to install it would be over $200. The heater also does not blow on my feet, which is where I would prefer it to blow. When I first got the car, it averaged 28-30mpg, but now, at five years old, it only gets 23mpg. This is surprising, considering my V-8 truck gets the same mileage and this car has a 4-cylinder/2wd. I have been trying to buy American-made cars, but it is difficult to do so with the poor quality of FORD vehicles. I recently purchased a Honda CRV and it is smooth as glass. I cannot even hear the engine running, which is a stark contrast to the diesel ticking noise my Ford made. The Honda gets 30mpg and is likely the same size as my Ford. Additionally, it comes with a 7-year rust-out guarantee. Needless to say, I am very happy with my purchase!

  5. Jovanny Cummings 2024-07-06

    Although my SUV has had some issues, I have taken care of them promptly and efficiently. I have invested a significant amount of money in it, but it has been worth it. I have replaced the ABS brakes, the stereo, the starter, and the caliber twice. I have also spent money on brakes, rotors, and starter. Despite these issues, I have enjoyed driving my SUV, and it has served me well. I am now ready to move on to a new vehicle, but I am confident that my SUV will continue to provide reliable transportation for someone else.

Positive 2012 Ford Escape car reviews

  1. D'angelo Wilderman 2024-10-28

    Hello! I recently purchased a 2012 Ford Escape, but unfortunately I've been experiencing a strong and annoying vibration while the vehicle idles in drive, reverse, and low. It's perfectly fine in park and neutral. According to Ford, this is a characteristic of the vehicle and there is nothing wrong. Although the two technicians who sat in it agreed that it was very noticeable, since there weren't any service lights or codes, there must not be anything wrong. If you're looking for a small SUV, I would recommend buying a Rav4 or CRV (I've owned both) instead of the Escape if you want to avoid the new car look with the 30-year-old junker feel. Thank you for reading!

  2. Rex Ledner 2024-10-07

    Firstly, congratulations on your new car! It's always exciting to get a new vehicle, especially after such a long time. I understand that you needed something to transport your keyboard gear to shows, and it's great to hear that there is plenty of room for all your equipment now. It's also wonderful to hear that you've had no problems with the car in the 6 weeks you've owned it, and that the odometer has just turned 1800 miles. Here's to many more happy and trouble-free miles!

  3. Geoffrey Langworth 2024-10-06

    The MPG is decent, although it could be improved. However, considering it is an SUV with 4WD, it performs well. Speaking of 4WD, we absolutely love it! It handles the harsh winters in PA with ease, even on steep mountains and hills covered in 4 to 5 inches of snow, despite having mediocre tire tread. Additionally, it has a helpful feature that alerts you when a turn signal or back light is out by blinking rapidly. The grey color is quite eye-catching, with a lot of glitter in it. Personally, I prefer this style over the newer ones!

  4. Consuelo Harber 2024-09-25

    I love my 2012 Escape! I might even get another one when it's time to buy a new car. I just need to explore my options because I'm not sure if the new ones have a backup camera. It's the perfect size for running errands around town or taking a short trip.

  5. Oran Brekke 2024-09-18

    I recently bought a 2012 model of the Escape from my local Ford dealership. I had purchased a 2013 model earlier because I couldn't find the XLT or LTD 2012 model. However, I was never completely satisfied with the new body style. Luckily, when I saw the 2012 model for sale, I immediately traded in my 2013 model for it. It's exactly what I had been looking for in 2013!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Ford Escape problems:

Buying a 2012 Ford Escape XLT as a broke single mom with 106k ...
Buying a 2012 Ford Escape XLT as a broke single mom with 106k ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/fordescape/comments/11adkli/buying_a_2012_ford_escape_xlt_as_a_broke_single/

Feb 24, 2023 ... The sway bar links come loose every now and then so you'll hear clanking noises until it's fixed. They have steering and transmission issues.

2012 Ford Escape Problems - CoPilot
2012 Ford Escape Problems - CoPilot
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/2012-ford-escape-problems/

Jun 14, 2022 ... With over 30 user complaints on carcomplaints.com, 2012 Ford Escape owners report transmission issues as the most common problem with their ...

2012 Ford Escape Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
2012 Ford Escape Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/ford/escape/2012

Jan 12, 2022 ... The 2012 ford escape is a pretty decent vehicle. It runs smoothly and performs well for the 6 cylinder SUV that it is. It will get up and go on ...

Q&A: 2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5L DOHC Engine Problems
Q&A: 2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5L DOHC Engine Problems
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/cqqp3-2012-ford-escape-xlt-2-5l-dohc-infamous.html

Aug 8, 2019 ... Check the hose clips for tightness and inspect the trunking for any cracks or splits and also all the vacuum system, the small bore pipes and ...

2012 Ford Escape Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
2012 Ford Escape Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2012-ford-escape/problems

Problem with your 2012 Ford Escape? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2012 Ford Escape.

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ford escape 2013 photo
Escape 2013
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Escape 2014
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ford escape 2015 photo
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