2012 Ford Explorer

The 2012 Ford Explorer marked a significant shift for the model, moving from a traditional body-on-frame SUV to a car-based crossover platform. This generation offered improved ride quality and fuel efficiency, making it popular with families. However, this model year has also been known for some reliability concerns. Engine options included a 3.5L V6 producing 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4 producing 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission was standard across all engine choices. The 2012 Explorer was praised for its comfortable interior, spaciousness, and modern features. Common complaints revolved around electronic issues, powertrain problems, and some build quality concerns.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, rough idling, check engine light. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, guides, and potentially the camshaft phasers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant warning. The internal water pump can fail and leak coolant into the engine oil, potentially causing severe engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump, coolant flush, and potentially engine repair if coolant contamination is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, sweet smell of coolant, engine misfires, low coolant levels.
  • Solution: Full engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping, general erratic behavior.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear, especially noticeable at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MyFord Touch/MyLincoln Touch System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for software updates, $500 - $1,200+ for APIM replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow window movement, clicking noise when attempting to operate the window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the parasitic draw. Often related to the MyFord Touch system or other electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate fails to open or close properly, requires manual assistance, liftgate struts are weak.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts or the entire liftgate motor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for struts, $500 - $1,000+ for the motor assembly
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the airbag system and repair or replacement of the faulty component (e.g., clock spring, sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the faulty component)
  • Recalls: 17V007000

Summary

The 2012 Ford Explorer has some concerning reliability issues, particularly relating to the powertrain and electrical systems. The timing chain and water pump issues on the 3.5L V6 can be expensive to repair and potentially lead to significant engine damage. The MyFord Touch system problems are a constant source of frustration for many owners. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite costly to fix, making a thorough inspection crucial before purchasing a used 2012 Explorer. The potential for costly repairs suggests that buyers should carefully consider the vehicle’s maintenance history and potentially opt for an extended warranty.