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    Ford F-150

    EPA MPG: 17 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    We expect the 2025 F-150 will be less reliable than the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2022, 2023, and 2024 models.

    The 2012 Ford F-150 has been recalled 4 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 F-150 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    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.

    What Owners Say

    12V battery

    "Electrical draw on battery from unknown source at this time, draws battery down overnight"

    Anonymous A., IA (2012 Ford F-150 FX4 6.2-L V8)
    Alarm or security system (excluding aftermarket systems)

    "security system. caused complete electrical failure according to the mechanic"

    Anonymous, SC (2012 Ford F-150 XL 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Keyless entry

    "Cannot unlock the doors with the key fob. it will lock the door but I have to use the key to unlock the door. Issue has not been resolved."

    Anonymous, IA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Other electrical system problem

    "computer and power module failure- cost 4200 dollars to repair"

    Anonymous, SC (2012 Ford F-150 XL 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Driver side rear door lock will not lock or unlock with the electric lock switch"

    Anonymous, LA (2012 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson 6.2-L V8)

    Exhaust

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

    What Owners Say

    Exhaust manifold

    "Exhaust manifold was leaking and we smell exhaust fume in the truck when we start the pickup."

    Anonymous, QC (2012 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "A couple of bolts were broken and the engine would chip under power"

    Anonymous, UT (2012 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Other/unsure

    "Driver Heated Seat Function Failed. Fixed at Ford Dealership"

    Anonymous A., MO (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "ABS control module is bad causing causing loss of ABS system and tracking control system. Brakes still work hydraulically just like my 1965 Ford F250. Problem started in Feb. 2024. I get "check advancetrac" and "check brake system" alarms and ABS, brake and traction control warning lights are on every time I drive it. Have not decided if or when I'm going to pay to have this $2000 part replaced."

    Anonymous, MI (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    "In the past 12 months I was told to replace shocks and struts"

    Anonymous, NJ (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 6.2-L V8)

    In-car Electronics

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

    What Owners Say

    Display screen goes blank

    "Odometer display went blank. Dealer wanted $1200 dollars to repair and 2 weeks. I removed display. Was sent a repaired one and returned mine. Three day downtime. Didn't loose any work. Cost $300 dollars."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Ford F-150 XL 3.7-L V6)
    External music device interface (e.g., smart phone, MP3 player)

    "The SYNC system will not pair via USB or BLUETOOTH with my new iPhone 15 PRO. I use my old iPhone SE connected via USB as my music player now"

    Anonymous A., CA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)
    Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

    "The bluetooth pairing has been erratic. At times, the phone becomes disconnected. I have already had to replace the controller once."

    Anonymous, TX (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    "The SYNC system will not pair BLUETOOTH with my new iPhone 15 PRO"

    Anonymous A., CA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)

    Climate System

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

    What Owners Say

    Blower (fan) motor

    "Stopped working"

    Anonymous A., ON (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Condenser

    "Air conditioner ceased functioning."

    Anonymous, WI (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "Schrader valves leaking"

    Anonymous A., FL (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "The freon leaked and deteriorated the metal housing of the AC system. The system had to be replaced."

    Anonymous A., KY (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    Paint And Trim

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

    What Owners Say

    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "Started about 3 years ago. Peeling paint on the inside of the truck bed only, big patches. Ford doesn't cover repair so it's not fixed."

    Anonymous, CA (2012 Ford F-150 XL 3.7-L V6)
    Rust

    "Wheel wells collect moisture and dont dry out causing corrosion."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)

    "Besides both sides rocker panels rusted through, the one original rear fender is also rusting through. You would think that after all these years of building the F-150 that Ford would have been able to overcome these issues, however I believe they don't want to so you have to buy a new truck."

    Anonymous A., PA (2012 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)

    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

    Differential

    "Started making a loud noise under the front of truck and front wheels that got louder over a few months. Thought it was wheel bearing going out. Was the differential that had to be totally rebuilt and replaced."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.7-L V6)
    Electrical failure

    "Turn signal control, malfunctioned, causing turn signal to stay on"

    Anonymous, WI (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Transfer case

    "The problem developed at very low Km ( probably less than 20000. Only evident when the vehicle is placed in 4WD which I very seldom use. It is a severe grinding sound to the pint that each time I try it I turn it off immediately. From my own diagnosis ( I have not had it back to the dealer for diagnosis) I believe it may be a faulty shift motor mounted on the back or the transfer case. My plans are to try that in the near future ."

    Anonymous, BC (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat 6.2-L V8)

    Brakes

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

    What Owners Say

    Antilock braking system (ABS)

    "As stated before, the ABS lights come on along with the others concerning the breaking system."

    Anonymous A., OH (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    "My brakes have been worked on once. The ABS warning light just recently started to appear. I need to have them looked at."

    Anonymous, TX (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Other brakes problem

    "As I said earlier, the service advanced track, check brake system, check ABS light up on my dashboard after driving about 15 miles or so. Ive checked all my fluid levels and they are fine. My brakes seem to work fine. All my brake pads are in good shape. My front brakes and rotors were replaced around six months ago. I cant figure out why all these lights and bells are going off. If I park at the store or something for 15 or 20 minutes and started back up again it takes about 15 miles before everything goes wacky again. Im 67 and have tumors on the tendons on the bottom of my feet. so I cant crawl around under my truck like I used to. It is a bit of concern because Ford recall recently could be affecting my truck too."

    Anonymous A., OH (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    Transmission Major

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

    What Owners Say

    Other major transmission & clutch problem

    "bad sensor affected drivability"

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Ford F-150 FX2 5.0-L V8)
    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "Tracy stopped working"

    Anonymous A., ON (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Engine Minor

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

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Replaced oil pan gasket. Doesnt leak but still burns oil."

    Anonymous A., VA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Other minor engine problem

    "Ford is aware of excessive oil burning from this engine. I recently took a 800 mile round trip and was a quart and a half low upon return. There are no oil leaks and I'm told that it is normal oil consumption. Really!"

    Anonymous A., AL (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat Limited 5.0-L V8)

    Engine Major

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

    What Owners Say

    Timing belt or chain

    "engine light came 3 months ago. had it checked out, timing chain is getting loose. needs a timing chain kit"

    Anonymous, VT (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Defective part that Ford doesnt warrant. Offered a prorated replacement but I was past the mileage of 90,000. Perfectly maintained truck now useless."

    Anonymous, OH (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    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

    Glass defects

    "Windshield is speckled. Depending on angle of sunlight shining through, it is difficult to see clearly."

    Anonymous, PA (2012 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)
    Other body problem

    "The problem with the rusting is that although the truck is still usable right now, it won't pass state inspection here in PA next year."

    Anonymous A., PA (2012 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)

    Engine Cooling

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

    What Owners Say

    Water pump

    "Started leaking around 115000 miles and resolved the problem through replacement"

    Anonymous, GA (2012 Ford F-150 FX2 5.0-L V8)

    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

    Spark plugs or wires failure

    "Engine started cutting out periodically for several months. Then refused to go over 40 mph without engine failure, especially on inclines."

    Anonymous, MO (2012 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.7-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.

    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.

    Noises And Leaks

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

    Transmission Minor

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

    2012 Pickup trucks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Steering and Suspension
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    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
    POWER TRAIN
    Feb 11, 2019
    Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission may unexpectedly downshift into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began March 4, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S07.
    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: 19V075000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1263051
    POWER TRAIN
    Apr 27, 2016
    An unexpected downshift into first gear can cause the vehicle to slow down suddenly without warning and the rear tires may slide or lock, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford F-150 trucks, 2012 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and Ford Mustang vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with an automatic transmission that may unexpectedly downshift to first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module with updated software, free of charge. The recall began on September 19, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S19.
    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: 16V248000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 153581
    EXTERIOR LIGHTING, POWER TRAIN
    May 03, 2012
    IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS, THE TRANSMISSION MAY NOT GO INTO REVERSE OR WHEN THE DRIVER PUSHES THE SHIFT LEVER IN THE REVERSE ?R? POSITION AND THE VEHICLE?S TRANSMISSION DOES GO IN REVERSE, THE ?R? MAY NOT ILLUMINATE ON THE DASHBOARD OF THE F-150, EXPEDITION, OR NAVIGATOR MODELS AND/OR THE BACKUP LAMP ON THE REAR OF THE F-150, EXPEDITION, NAVIGATOR, OR MUSTANG VEHICLES MAY NOT ILLUMINATE. THESE CONDITIONS INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH OR A PEDESTRIAN BEING STRUCK DUE TO THE VEHICLE?S NOT SIGNALING IT IS IN REVERSE.
    Summary:
    FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 FORD F-150, 2012 EXPEDITION AND LINCOLN NAVIGATOR, AND 2012-2013 MUSTANG VEHICLES, FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NOS. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT" AND 108 ?LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.? THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR (TRS) THAT WAS CALIBRATED OUT OF SPECIFICATION FOR REVERSE GEAR.
    What should you do:
    FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE TRS AS NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 11, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
    For more information:
    FORD'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 12C23.CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V190000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 10500
    AIR BAGS
    May 03, 2012
    A FAILURE TO DEPLOY, FAILURE TO DEPLOY AS INTENDED, OR A DEPLOYMENT WHEN NOT INTENDED, INCREASES THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT OCCUPANT.
    Summary:
    FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 F-150 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 6, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2011. INCORRECT SOFTWARE FOR THE OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM MODULE (OCSM) WAS INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLES EITHER AT THE TIME OF MANUFACTURING OR DURING THE COURSE OF REPLACEMENT OF THE MODULE AS PART OF A SERVICE REPAIR. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, THE OCSM MAY MISCLASSIFY THE PASSENGER SEAT?S OCCUPANT SUCH THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DOES NOT DEPLOY WHEN IT SHOULD, DOES NOT DEPLOY AS INTENDED, OR DEPLOYS WHEN IT SHOULD NOT.
    What should you do:
    FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE OCSM FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 21, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
    For more information:
    FORD'S SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 12S31.CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V198000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 101
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