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2012 Ford Lobo

Introduction:

The 2012 Ford Lobo is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its powerful engine, spacious interior, and rugged capabilities. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 3.5L V6 and a 5.0L V8, and two transmissions: a 6-speed and a 10-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Lobo’s impressive towing and hauling capacity, as well as its comfortable ride. However, like any vehicle, it has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

3.5L V6

  • Spark Plug Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, reduced engine power, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace spark plugs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

  • Variable Valve Timing Solenoid Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, reduced engine power, check engine light illuminated
    • Solution: Replace variable valve timing solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
    • Recalls: 19S31
  • Piston Ring Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, loss of engine power
    • Solution: Replace piston rings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Shift Solenoid Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, check engine light illuminated
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

10-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration felt during acceleration, especially at low speeds
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: 19E03

Suspension

  • Front Suspension Strut Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from front end, poor handling, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace front suspension struts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, reduced load capacity, rough ride
    • Solution: Replace rear leaf springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain:
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, especially after sitting overnight
    • Solution: Find and fix electrical leaks
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of electrical power, check engine light illuminated
    • Solution: Replace alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Windshield Wiper Motor Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Wipers not functioning, intermittent operation
    • Solution: Replace windshield wiper motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Power Window Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow operation
    • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Heater Core Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, bad odor from heater vents
    • Solution: Replace heater core
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Ford Lobo is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has some common issues. The most severe and expensive problems include piston ring failure and torque converter shudder. Other issues, such as spark plug failure and battery drain, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, potential buyers should consider the severity and cost of these issues when making a decision about purchasing this vehicle.

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