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2012 Ford F-150

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2012 Ford F-150, categorized by major component. The 2012 Ford F-150 is a popular truck known for its versatility and capability. Engine options included the 3.7L V6 (302 hp, 278 lb-ft of torque), the 5.0L V8 (360 hp, 380 lb-ft of torque), the 6.2L V8 (411 hp, 434 lb-ft of torque), and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (365 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the F-150’s ruggedness and towing capacity, but some common complaints include issues with certain engine components and electrical glitches.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise, loss of power, check engine light. This often involves the turbocharger wastegate actuator.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating. The water pump can fail prematurely, leading to coolant loss and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Low oil level, blue smoke from exhaust. Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption.
    • Solution: Possible piston ring replacement, although the exact cause can vary. In some cases, a PCV valve replacement can help.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the severity. PCV valve replacement $100-$300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Train Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds.
    • Solution: Inspection of the valve train components and potential replacement of faulty lifters or rocker arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the specific components that need replacing.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

  • No Issues Found

6.2L V8

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Erratic Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can experience rough or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. This could also be caused by worn solenoids.
    • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change. If that does not solve the issue, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-500 for flush and fluid change, $800-1,500 for valve body replacement, $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission rebuild.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Shaking or vibration during light throttle acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. This indicates an issue with the torque converter.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Leaf Spring Sag
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sits lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating properly, intermittent operation. Often related to the window motor or switch.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty window motor or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not functioning correctly, erratic readings, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SYNC System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: System freezes, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
    • Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the SYNC module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Corrosion on Aluminum Body Panels (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: White, powdery corrosion on aluminum body panels, especially in areas exposed to salt.
    • Solution: Cleaning and treatment of the corroded areas. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary. (Although, this isn’t aluminum)
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Airbag Light Illumination
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light stays on, indicating a problem with the airbag system.
    • Solution: Diagnostic scan to determine the cause of the fault, followed by repair or replacement of the affected component (e.g., clock spring, airbag module).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ford F-150 has some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost (turbo failures) and 5.0L V8 (oil consumption, valvetrain noise), can be costly to address, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Transmission issues, especially harsh shifting, can also be expensive if they require a rebuild. Electrical and suspension problems are generally less severe in terms of cost, but can still contribute to maintenance expenses. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

Ford, F-150
Ford F-150 2012
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