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2012 Ford Escape

2012 Ford Escape

SUV
front wheel drive
regular unleaded
Horsepower
MPG Combined
MSRP
$24,870
Torque
Reliability Score
82/ 100Excellent
Based on 788 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 2012 Ford Escape?

The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality and comfort, making it a suitable choice for small families or individuals seeking a reliable vehicle. With a front-wheel drive system and a 2.5L I4 engine, it delivers 171 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined fuel efficiency of 23 MPG. The MSRP of $24,870 positions it as an affordable option in the SUV market, especially for those who prioritize regular unleaded fuel. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle's mixed reliability ratings, as evidenced by 788 total complaints reported to the NHTSA, including 57 crash incidents and 32 injuries, primarily related to the fuel/propulsion system and steering components.

Ideal For

The 2012 Ford Escape is best suited for budget-conscious individuals or small families looking for a practical and versatile SUV for daily commuting and occasional road trips.

Strengths

  • +Affordable MSRP for a compact SUV
  • +Decent fuel efficiency at 23 MPG combined
  • +Spacious seating for up to 5 passengers
  • +User-friendly technology features
  • +Good cargo space for everyday use

Weaknesses

  • -Significant number of complaints related to safety components
  • -Engine issues reported at low mileage
  • -Less powerful compared to competitors in the same class
  • -Steering problems reported frequently
  • -Overall reliability score could be improved

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 2012 Ford Escape has a notable number of complaints, particularly concerning the fuel/propulsion system and steering, with issues often arising between 40,000 to 60,000 miles. While there are no reported deaths, the presence of 32 injuries and multiple crash incidents suggests that buyers should conduct thorough inspections and consider maintenance history when evaluating this model. Overall, while it has a reliability score of 82.4/100, potential buyers should be cautious of its known issues.

Complaint Patterns by Mileage
ENGINE
0-20000 mi
22 reports
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
40000-60000 mi
18 reports
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
40000-60000 mi
17 reports
STEERING
60000-80000 mi
17 reports
STEERING
100000-120000 mi
17 reports
ENGINE
40000-60000 mi
16 reports
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
20000-40000 mi
15 reports
STEERING
80000-100000 mi
15 reports
Top Complaint Areas
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM17% of complaints
STEERING17% of complaints
ENGINE9% of complaints
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL9% of complaints
POWER TRAIN8% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
Torque
Engine
3 L
Cylinders
V6
Transmission
6-speed automatic
Drive Type
front wheel drive

Efficiency

MPG Combined
Fuel Type
regular unleaded

Dimensions

Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Curb Weight
Ground Clearance

Capacity

Doors
5
Seating
5
Cargo
Max Cargo
Max Towing
Max Payload

ddpc Estimated Value

$7,616
$6,474 – $8,759
69% from MSRP
Original MSRP: $24,870
Depreciation Over Time
New
5yr
10yr
14yr
15yr
ddpc Estimate based on original MSRP, standard depreciation curves, vehicle class, and NHTSA reliability data. Not a substitute for professional appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, mileage, location, and market conditions.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Estimated Annual Cost
$4,037
Per Mile
$0.34
5-Year Total
$37,439
Fuel
$1,826/yr
Maintenance
$700/yr
Insurance
$1,511/yr
Depreciation
$3,451/yr
Based on industry-standard estimates for this vehicle class. Fuel cost assumes 12,000 mi/yr at national average gas prices. Maintenance uses class-based intervals, not manufacturer-specific schedules. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

Available Trims (11)

Escape
XLT 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
front wheel drive
$24,870
Escape
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
all wheel drive
$26,620
Escape
Limited 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
front wheel drive
$26,370
Escape
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
all wheel drive
$28,120
Escape FWD FFV
FFV
FWD
Escape FWD
FWD
Escape FWD
FWD
Escape Hybrid FWD
FWD
Escape AWD FFV
FFV
AWD
Escape AWD
AWD
Escape Hybrid AWD
AWD

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