2012 Ford E-150

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2012 Ford E-150, formatted as requested.

The 2012 Ford E-150 is a full-size cargo and passenger van known for its practicality and spaciousness. This year, the E-150 came standard with a 4.6L Triton V8 engine producing 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. An optional 5.4L Triton V8 engine offered 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the van’s robust build and ample cargo capacity. However, some common complaints include its relatively poor fuel economy and dated interior design compared to more modern vans.

Engine

4.6L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can seize in the cylinder head, causing the threads to strip upon removal or ejection of the spark plug, often accompanied by a loud popping noise and engine misfire.
  • Solution: Repairing the threads using a thread insert kit (like Time-Sert) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on repair method and shop labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idling, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on how many need replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can seize in the cylinder head, causing the threads to strip upon removal or ejection of the spark plug, often accompanied by a loud popping noise and engine misfire.
  • Solution: Repairing the threads using a thread insert kit (like Time-Sert) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on repair method and shop labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idling, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on how many need replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4R75E/W)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Transmission may slip or delay engagement.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty valve body, or worn clutches. Diagnosis is crucial. Flushing the transmission, replacing the valve body, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (for fluid flush) to $3000+ (for rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially under light acceleration. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Steering may feel loose.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints (upper and/or lower).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on which ball joints need replacing and labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn shocks and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system blows only hot or cold air, or the temperature is stuck on one setting. Clicking noise behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate, or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and lower doors, especially in areas where road salt is used.
  • Solution: Sanding down the rust, applying rust converter, and repainting. In severe cases, cutting out and replacing rusted panels may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (for minor rust repair) to $1000+ (for panel replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric begins to detach from the backing and sag down, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Re-gluing the headliner fabric or replacing the entire headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ford E-150, while a dependable work van, is prone to certain issues related to its age and design. The Triton V8 engines, while durable, have a history of spark plug thread issues. The 4-speed automatic transmission can experience shifting problems and torque converter failure. Suspension wear is also common. Electrical issues, particularly with blend door actuators and power windows, also surface. Body rust is a concern in certain climates. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor (e.g., blend door actuator) to potentially costly (e.g., transmission rebuild or engine work).