2012 Ford Explorer Body Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are body problems on the 2012 Ford Explorer?
144 owners have reported body problems on the 2012 Ford Explorer, 17% of all complaints for this year and the 2nd most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 56,000–146,000 miles. 2 recalls cover this area.
144 complaints 17% of all 2012 complaints 97,000 miles typical
Which parts fail
The specific part named in each complaint.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (82 of 144). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Body complaints by the year the problem happened.
Body complaints by Explorer year
Related recalls
Roof and pillars
The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach. A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years.
Recall 24V031000 · Jan 2024Interior door handle may unseat, unlatching door
Crash riskA spring in the interior door handle can come loose, so the handle may not return fully to its resting position. In a side-impact crash, the door could unlatch, raising the risk of injury.
Fix: A dealer will inspect all four interior door handles and repair or replace any faulty ones at no cost to you.
Recall 15V171000 · Mar 2015Get an email when your 2012 Ford Explorer gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2012 Ford Explorer, you'll hear about it the same week.
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Other 2012 Ford Explorer problems
Common questions
What are common 2012 Ford Explorer body problems?
Complaints most often name the body, door and hood.
At what mileage do 2012 Ford Explorer body problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 56,000–146,000 miles. The middle value is about 97,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2012 Ford Explorer body problems?
Yes: 24V031000, 15V171000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which Explorer year has the most body complaints?
The 2017 Explorer, with 658 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.