2012 Ford Escape Problems
What owners have reported about the 2012 Ford Escape, which problems come up most, at what mileage, and which recalls to check.
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
Is the 2012 Ford Escape a good year?
It's about average for this model. Owners have filed 603 complaints with NHTSA, the 12th most of 18 Escape model years. The most reported problems involve the fuel system, steering and engine.
603 complaints 2 recalls, 1 fire risk 12th worst of 18 Escape years
Top 2012 Ford Escape problems
Fuel system problems
160 complaints (27%) name the fuel system, most often the delivery and fuel pump.
Steering problems
139 complaints (23%) name the steering, most often the electric power assist system.
Engine problems
79 complaints (13%) name the engine, most often the catalytic convertor.
Acceleration problems
70 complaints (12%) name the acceleration and speed control, most often the accelerator pedal.
Which parts fail most
Share of complaints that name each system. One complaint can name several.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (403 of 603). The amber line is the middle value, about 58,000 miles.
When problems were reported
Complaints by the year the problem happened.
2012 Ford Escape recalls
Fuel pump
Fire riskOn vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the Fuel Delivery Module (FDM) may crack, causing a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Recall 16V777000 · Oct 2016Wheel bearing
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. Use of an incorrectly sized wheel bearing can adversely affect the braking and steering of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Timken has begun notifying distributors who will offer purchasers replacement wheel bearings, free of charge.
Recall 15E045000 · Jun 2015Get an email when your 2012 Ford Escape gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2012 Ford Escape, you'll hear about it the same week.
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Escape years to avoid
Total NHTSA complaints by model year. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing. See the full comparison.
2012 Ford Escape problems by system
Common questions
Is the 2012 Ford Escape a reliable year?
It's about average for this model. Owners have filed 603 complaints with NHTSA, the 12th most of 18 Escape model years. The most reported problems involve the fuel system, steering and engine.
What are the most common 2012 Ford Escape problems?
Owners most often report problems with the fuel system, steering, engine and acceleration and speed control. 160 complaints (27%) name the fuel system, most often the delivery and fuel pump.
At what mileage do 2012 Ford Escape fuel system problems start?
Reported mileage ranged widely, but most complaints fell between about 37,000–79,000 miles, with a middle value near 55,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2012 Ford Escape have?
2. Fuel pump (16V777000); Wheel bearing (15E045000). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Should I buy a used 2012 Ford Escape?
Ask for service records covering the fuel system, confirm the recall work was done, and compare with the 2025, 2024 and 2023 models, which have the fewest complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports. Counts include each complaint once per model year.