Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Ford Explorer
The 2012 Ford Explorer has a significant number of complaints, particularly in steering and structural areas, and several recalls. Known issues include potential steering failures and body panel detachment. Potential buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly inspect for these issues. Evidence of other problem areas is limited, so checks should be general and cautious.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Ford Explorer has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 830 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V031000 Exterior A-Pillar Trim May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V746000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V435000 Rear Suspension Toe Links May Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17E048000 Hub Unit Bearing may Allow Wheel Detachment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V171000 Interior Door Handle Return Spring may Unseat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V286000 Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14E001000 Replacement Steering Gears may Lock Steering NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 360 complaints
- Structure 144 complaints
- Unknown or Other 105 complaints
- Engine 79 complaints
- Electrical System 64 complaints
- Power Train 55 complaints
Of the 830 complaints on file, 10 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 830 complaints, owners report 13 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
power steering loss
How to check: Test power steering at low speed in parking lot.
A-pillar trim detachment
How to check: Inspect A-pillar for loose or missing trim.
rear suspension fracture
How to check: Examine rear suspension components for damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low speed turn
What to check: Evaluate power steering smoothness.
Red flag: Steering stiffness or noise
- 04
Regular acceleration
What to check: Observe for any unusual vibrations.
Red flag: Noticeable vibration through steering
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 06
Braking
What to check: Check for even and firm braking response.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or pulling
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering system been serviced?
- Have there been any suspension repairs?
- Were any recalls performed recently?
- Are there existing issues with door handles?
- Have there been any electrical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair receipts
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
- Ownership manual
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Ford Explorer? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.