2012 Ford Escape

Introduction:

The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a choice of engines and transmissions. The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder that produces 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The optional engines are a 3.0L V6 that produces 240 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. All three engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Escape is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, there have been some issues reported by owners.

Engine

• 2.5L 4-cylinder
• Oil Leak: Oil leaks from the oil pan gasket. Symptoms include spotting oil under the vehicle, low oil levels, and a burning oil smell. Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Timing Chain Failure: The timing chain can stretch or break prematurely, leading to engine damage. Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine, reduced engine power, and eventual engine failure. Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Recalls: 15V723000
• Recalls: 18V391000
• 3.0L V6
• Intake Manifold Failure: The intake manifold can crack, causing a vacuum leak and loss of engine power. Symptoms include rough idle, stalling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Solution: Replace the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
• Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder
• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, resulting in reduced engine power and increased noise from the engine. Symptoms include loss of boost, whistling or whining noises, and increased oil consumption. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
• Recalls: 16V679000

Transmission

• 6-speed Automatic
• Shifting Issues: The transmission may experience rough shifting, slipping gears, or refusing to shift. Symptoms include delayed or erratic gear changes, transmission slipping, and loss of power. Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Recalls: 14V151000
• Recalls: 15V721000

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Failure: The electrical system may experience various issues, including battery drain, loss of power, and malfunctioning electrical components. Symptoms include difficulty starting, flickering lights, and dead batteries. Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system issue. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies
• Sunroof Malfunction: The sunroof may fail to open, close, or leak water into the vehicle. Symptoms include inoperable sunroof, water leaks, and electrical issues. Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Clearcoat Peeling: The clearcoat on the vehicle’s paint may peel or flake off, especially on the roof, hood, and trunk. Symptoms include dull paint, exposed base coat, and rust spots. Solution: Repaint the affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Body Panel Misalignment: The body panels may not be properly aligned, causing gaps or unevenness. Symptoms include gaps between panels, misaligned headlights or taillights, and rattling noises. Solution: Adjust or replace the misaligned body panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary:

The 2012 Ford Escape has some reported issues that can be costly to repair, particularly related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. However, the severity of these issues and their frequency vary. Many owners have reported no significant problems with their vehicles, while others have experienced major issues that required extensive repairs. Before purchasing a used 2012 Ford Escape, it is important to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic to assess its condition and address any potential issues.