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    Ford Escape

    EPA MPG: 20 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 Escape will be more reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022 and 2023 models, and the Ford brand score.

    The 2012 Ford Escape has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Ford Escape owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "a/c would not work"

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "AC stopped working while driving in summer. Cost over $1000 to fix it"

    Anonymous, NY (2012 Ford Escape 3.0-L V6)

    "started late summer 2023 and took several trips to mechanic to fix. First replace compressor then harder problem to diagnose ended up being a faulty pigtail connector - but it took awhile to discover"

    Anonymous, KY (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "Multiple tiered fixes that only lasted 2 days to a few weeks. Finally, the entire a/c was taken out and replaced at multi thousand dollars. In under a year, it stopped working again, twice. The mechanic fixed some minor tweaks to get it working again. The next time it goes, I can't afford to put thousands into again and will have to sell it so someone who.can do without a/c."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "Its 12 years old and the compressor has seized not unusual for the age"

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Blower (fan) motor

    "Resistor had failed for the blower speeds. I replaced it for $30"

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Condenser

    "Condenser developed a small leak. We replaced it and its been fine since the repair."

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "The A/C system stopped putting out cool air. A quick recharge included some leak detection dye. About a month later, the system was running warm again. At this time, the condenser was replaced along with other associated components such as gaskets. The problem was resolved."

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "This went the same time as the a/c, and was replaced when the a/c was."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Heater system

    "The AC stopped working and only hot air came out. The repair cost $1500+"

    Anonymous A., WA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "The leak was very gradual, as indicated by the dye test. It was corrected when the system condenser was replaced."

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "Refrigerant has to be added periodically for a/c to work well"

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    Paint And Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "Rear passenger door tends to collect significant water inside the door. The drains on under side of door often clog with debris, allowing water to collect inside the door. I noticed it because I'd hear a sloshing of liquid sound coming from the back seat area. Easy to remedy, using tweezers to unclog the drain holes, but still, how long was water sitting inside the door before I realized it and rusting or effecting electric system to the window??"

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Rust

    "box frames in rear had to be reconstructed for safety inspection. Cost $1000"

    Anonymous A., PA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    "Body rust above both rear wheels. No easy fix, design issue of body sheet steel."

    Anonymous, MI (2012 Ford Escape 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "This is a common problem with this era of Ford Escapes. There is considerable rust around the rear wheel wells. It's such a shame, the rest of the body is in great shape."

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "Unibody has severe rust damage due to age and salt corrosion. So much, it was unable to pass the yearly state inspection by the inspection facility. Had another repair shop facility with proper welding ability, perform sufficient repairs to allow the vehicle meet/pass the inspection requirements. They informed me it is likely more work will be needed in the future, and could reach the point it can no longer be repaired."

    Anonymous A., PA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Vehicle has accessive rust long bottoms of the doors and around the bottom of the lift gate. There is also blistering rust in several areas of the body."

    Anonymous, IN (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Area above the rear wheel wells is rusted out on both sides of the vehicle. I am aware this is a normal problem on Ford Escapes."

    Anonymous A., MI (2012 Ford Escape Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Holes rusted out, in the fenders over the rear wheels and in the bottom of the rear hatch door and at the bottom of the rear hatch window. This rust began to appear at age 4 years so I have been cleaning and putting rust-converter paint on these areas every year but the holes just keep getting bigger. It's the last truck-style model of Ford Escape which my wife and I like a lot, so considering major body work to preserve it. Most people would scrap it now."

    Anonymous, QC (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Exhaust leaks

    "I had an exhaust leak that got worst overtime. Took it in to have it repaired."

    Anonymous, MI (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Other/unsure

    "The switch for driver side front seat stopped working. Seat would not move at all. I replaced the switch myself which I got from the scrap yard."

    Anonymous, ON (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "Plastic gas tank had crack requiring replacement"

    Anonymous, AZ (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    "Ignition switch failures. About one year ago. Failure about every 3 or 4 times starting g. Requires column Ignition switch replaced. Will have to be done by dealer. As my garage folks say even new ones are problematic and they can not key the lock cylinder to be the same key settings as door. So waiting on schedule with dealer."

    Anonymous A., OH (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Replace the throttle and new brake pads"

    Anonymous, LA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Pipes

    "The exult system rusted through the pipes as well as the hangar mounts requiring a replacement from the catalytic converter back."

    Anonymous, IN (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Locks and latches

    "If the weather is below freezing the lock in the driver's door does not work, neither with the remote nor the physical key. This started 2 winters ago and I managed to get it going then by pouring a cup of wd40 into the door via the bottom of the window but this past winter nothing could fix it not even a hot air blower, just had to wait for milder weather. I didn't look into a professional repair because it's the spare car and in a pinch it's easy to use the passenger door and climb over the console. Well what do you expect from a 12-year-old Ford. We have a 14-year-old Chev that is more reliable in such ways."

    Anonymous, QC (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)
    Other body problem

    "Since we bought the Escape last year we have been trying to slow down rust around the rear wheels and on the tailgate glass hinges. We have paid for rust proofing and worked to keep the areas clear of road salt. Despite this, rust in these areas continues to worsen more than we see with many other makes of SUV of this age."

    Anonymous A., BC (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    "slight rust above rear wheels"

    Anonymous A., PA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)
    Seat belts

    "The front passenger-side seatbelt is not rolling up after use."

    Anonymous A., MI (2012 Ford Escape Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Tailgate, hatch or trunk

    "The hinge on the tailgate glass is deteriorating to the point that it's slowly coming apart."

    Anonymous A., BC (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Other brakes problem

    "left front brake line developed internal wear which allowed brake fluid to leak into the caliper, compromising its ability to brake properly."

    Anonymous, KS (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Regular brake failure

    "Don't remamber for sure. After coming to a stop, it seemed like I still had my foot on the brake pedal."

    Anonymous, IN (2012 Ford Escape XLS 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Rotors

    "brakes getting hot and smoked"

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Ford Escape 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Replaced brakes, pads, calipers, rotors."

    Anonymous, MA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Vehicle has a very slow oil drip/leak. We believe it is an oil pan cover leak and front timing cover leak."

    Anonymous A., IA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    "Same as prior issue. 3 repair jobs, 3 failures. Still leaks."

    Anonymous, OR (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Problem(s) fueling the tank

    "The capless fueling spout is frequently throwing a code for not closing properly. Have tried cleaning it with carb cleaner multiple times, with little success. Car probably needs a new filler spout to fix the problem. Sometimes the car just displays there is a problem with the filler spout on the odometer, sometimes the car displays that message along with turning on the check engine light. The problem started last fall when temperatures started falling below freezing, and is somewhat intermittent. Summer is almost here now and the problem is still intermittent. This is the kids car, and she has been known to not tell us of issues with her car because she does not want to loose use of her car while it is repaired."

    Anonymous A., ID (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Noises And Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Air or water leaks

    "Rain water was leaking onto front left and right elbow rests. The rubber-like gasket at the right and left top of the front windshield had shrunk over the years. There was about a 1/4 inch space where water coming from above could get into the interior of car. I fixed it with adhesive silicon in a tube."

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "high humidity in the cabin causes wind fogging and inside icing"

    Anonymous, BC (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Squeaks or rattles

    "Rattle and clunking somewhere on drivers side, has always been there."

    Anonymous, BC (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    CD player

    "I had not tried to use the cd player for 5 or more years. When I put in a CD last month, it would not read it and said "bad CD". I tried several new cds and got the same result, i.e., "bad CD"."

    Anonymous, FL (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)
    Other in-car electronics problem

    "Electronics failure with the display consul would prevent the car from starting."

    Anonymous, MN (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "When night driving, the back lighting for control knobs will blink on and off intermittently."

    Anonymous, ME (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    "Fuel tank emissions control system required failure generated a Check Engine warning light. Repairs required $800 parts and labor."

    Anonymous, VA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    "Check engine light, would not go off to pass inspection, not showing any error codes. Replaced emissions sensor & passed inspection now check engine light on again, runs fine."

    Anonymous, (2012 Ford Escape Limited 2.5-L 4 Cyl)
    Sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor)

    "First car that has had an O2 sensor problem. Very difficult to remove because of location in exhaust; rusted in place."

    Anonymous, AL (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Driveshaft or axle

    "Ford dealer tech missed rusted motor mount on regular maintenance check which failed & then shifted engine enough to break one of the front drive axles. It took 6 weeks to get the right part from Ford so the car rental was over $2000 even though on extended Ford warranty Ford (and the dealer) covered all the vehicle repairs. Dealer picked up most of the car rental fees that the Ford extended warranty & Ford refused to pay after 10 days, even though Ford couldn't furnish the right part for 6 weeks. (Dealer had to use a new Ford part because car was still on extended warranty I purchased from Ford.) Dealer was great but Ford's customer service was terrible. On hold on the phone for hours and was dropped several times as Ford transferred me from rep to different reps, none of whom gave the same answers. I'd still buy another Ford BUT Ford doesn't sell anything I need ie a 4WD SUV with a normally aspirated (no turbo) V6."

    Anonymous, IA (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    "The seals failed in the transmission and let a majority of the transmission oil run out, leaving the car stranded. New axles and new oil, and the car moves again."

    Anonymous A., ID (2012 Ford Escape XLT 2.5-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Alternator

    "Battery light came on while driving. We drove it home and replaced the alternator. No issues since replacing."

    Anonymous A., IA (2012 Ford Escape Limited 3.0-L V6)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Head gasket

    "Consistent leaks for several years. Repaired 3times and still leaks."

    Anonymous, OR (2012 Ford Escape XLT 3.0-L V6)

    Steering And Suspension

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    2012 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
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    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
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    Engine Major
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    Engine Minor
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    Engine Cooling
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    Engine Electrical
    NA
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    Transmission Major
    NA
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    Transmission Minor
    NA
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    Drive System
    NA
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    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
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    Exhaust
    NA
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    Steering and Suspension
    NA
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    Brakes
    NA
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    Climate System
    NA
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    Build Quality
    NA
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    Electrical Accessories
    NA
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    Body Hardware
    NA
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    Paint/Trim
    NA
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    Noises/Leaks
    NA
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    NA
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    In-car Electronics
    NA
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    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Oct 26, 2016
    A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured February 26, 2009, to April 29, 2012, and 2010-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles manufactured February 25, 2009, to December 12, 2010. On vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the FDM flange with one that has a redesigned fuel supply port, free of charge. Remedy parts are currently unavailable. Interim notices were mailed to owners on December 13, 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S41.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V777000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 329265
    SUSPENSION
    Jun 03, 2015
    Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    The Timken Company (Timken) is recalling certain aftermarket front wheel bearings, part number 510072, sold from January 22, 2015, to May 21, 2015, to be used as service parts on 2001-2012 Ford Escape, 2001-2011 Mazda Tribute, and 2005-2011 Mercury Mariner vehicles. The affected wheel bearings have incorrect dimensions of a 42mm bore, 76mm outer dimension, and 39mm width, instead of a 42mm bore, 78mm outer dimension and a 45mm width.
    What should you do:
    Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2015. Owners may contact Timken customer service at 1-866-984-6536.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 15E045000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 576
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