CarRecallWatchThe 2012 Ford Escape has 1 safety recall on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 604 complaints with NHTSA, including 38 crashes, 3 fires, 27 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Steering (140 reports).
NHTSA rates it up to 3 stars overall for crash safety, depending on the version.
2012 Ford Escape recalls
Fuel leak from pump module can cause fire risk
On certain vehicles with a 3.0L engine, the fuel delivery module (FDM) can crack, causing a fuel leak.
Most common 2012 Ford Escape problems
Problem areas named in the 604 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Steering | 140 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 137 |
| Engine | 73 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 70 |
| Structure | 68 |
| Power Train | 66 |
| Unknown Or Other | 44 |
| Electrical System | 42 |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 26 |
| Air Bags | 25 |
What owners report
[XXX]. We were pulling away from the gas pump with our children and the steering wheel suddenly stiffened on my husband and we almost hit another car! There was absolutely no warning and it was a scary experience. This should be fixed and it known issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owned a 2012 Ford Escape. While driving in a parking lot at approximately 18-20 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated, and the brake pedal was depressed but failed to stop the vehicle. The vehicle struck a fence and an apartment building. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained a cut above the nose, right shoulder pain, and a concussion. The contact received medical attention. The vehicle was towed by the insurance company and declared a total loss. The failure mileage was 44,000.
Check engine light having a single code P2111 occurring after reduction of power. Vehicle looses power at varying speeds including highway speeds. I have not had it professionally diagnosed. In the process of replacing the I A C. My research indicates that the NHTSA is in the process of investigating complaints of this component malfunctioning across several Ford model vehicles. The abrupt loss of forward momentum is a serious hazard to myself, passengers and vehicles behind me. This has now occurred on about seven occasions since late September. I will no longer drive this vehicle until I replace and test drive the new I A C on or about October 1, 2026.
The power steering failed unexpectedly. I am not sure what the problem is but there is fluid all over the wheel well. I see that the was a recal on the power steering. How can I find out why my car was not included?
I started the truck and began to back out of my parking spot but the steering was so stiff I couldn't turn so I shut it off. After about 3 minutes I stated it up and the steering was fine. The. It happened the next day while I was driving and that was terrifying!!! It became extremely difficult to steer so I found the strength to turn and park. After turning the truck off and on it was fine.. Now the truck is in my driveway and the steering so stiff that I'll have to leave it.
2012 Ford Escape safety rating
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 Ford Escape SUV 4x4 | ★★★ 3-star | 3 | 3 | 3 (20.4% rollover risk) |
| 2012 Ford Escape SUV 4x2 | ★★★ 3-star | 3 | 3 | 3 (23.7% rollover risk) |
2012 Ford Escape questions
Does the 2012 Ford Escape have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2012 Ford Escape: Fuel leak from pump module can cause fire risk. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Ford Escape?
Based on 604 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Steering (140), Fuel/Propulsion System (137), Engine (73).
How safe is the 2012 Ford Escape?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings program gives the 2012 Ford Escape up to 3 out of 5 stars overall; ratings vary by version, see the table above.
How do I check if a recall on my 2012 Ford Escape has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.