2012 Ford E-250

The 2012 Ford E-250 is a popular cargo van known for its reliability and practicality, often used for commercial purposes. The 2012 E-250 offered a choice of two engines: the 4.6L Triton V8 producing 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque and the 5.4L Triton V8 generating 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the E-250’s cargo capacity and durability. Common complaints often revolve around fuel economy and the relatively basic interior features.

Engine

4.6L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can loosen or eject from the cylinder head due to weak aluminum threads. This can cause a ticking noise, misfires, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Repairing the cylinder head threads with a thread repair kit or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the repair method and the number of affected cylinders.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.6L, the 5.4L Triton engine is also prone to spark plugs loosening or ejecting from the cylinder head. This results in a ticking noise, misfires, and potential loss of power.
  • Solution: Repairing the cylinder head threads using a thread repair kit, or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the repair method and the number of affected cylinders.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Phaser Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine noise, rough idling, stalling, and reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the camshaft phasers, timing chain, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4R75E/4R70W)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3500+ depending on the severity and required repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking, popping, or squeaking noises from the front suspension, excessive play in the steering wheel, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock, intermittent operation of the door locks.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Door Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Side door not latching properly, door opening unexpectedly, or difficulty opening the side door.
  • Solution: Replacing the side door latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2012 Ford E-250 has some known issues, mostly concerning the engine (specifically spark plug thread issues and camshaft phaser problems in the 5.4L engine) and the 4-speed automatic transmission. Suspension issues with ball joints and electrical issues with door lock actuators also occur. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the severity and the shop performing the work, but some of the engine and transmission repairs can be significant expenses. The potential for expensive engine and transmission work should be considered when evaluating a used 2012 Ford E-250.