Recalls · problems · safety

2012 Ford Explorer: recalls and problems

7 recalls and 827 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is steering.

7recalls
827complaints
10crashes reported
6fires reported
13injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Steering358 · 43%
  • Structure144 · 17%
  • Unknown Or Other105 · 13%
  • Engine79 · 10%
  • Electrical System58 · 7%
  • Power Train55 · 7%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System27 · 3%
  • Suspension21 · 3%
  • Air Bags21 · 3%
  • Service Brakes19 · 2%

What owners report

Structure

The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the driver's side and passenger's side exterior a-pillar trim detached. the contact used tape on the driver's side to secure the molding to the windshield. the contact stated that the passenger's side a-pillar trim detached and fell off the vehicle. the dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. the vehicle was take

Structure

The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 24v031000 (structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. the vehicle was taken to a local dealer, and it was realized that both front a-pillar trims were loose. the vehicle was repaired using duct tape as a temporary fix for both front a-pillar trims. the manufacturer was made aware of the

Steering

The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and making turns, the steering wheel made loud grinding sounds and was loose. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. the failure mileage was approximately 197,000.

Unknown Or Other

Right after i bought this car used, it rides down the road like it's going to fall apart! it's horrible, the slightest little bump in the road you can feel every single one heaven forbid if it's a big bump in the road or a pothole it's priced the car hasn't fallen apart yet

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2012 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2012 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Explorer. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.