2012 Ford Escape Review: A Small Problematic SUV In Need Of A Redesign

Alex Showalter
Jan 12, 2022

The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact SUV with a price range of $8,280 to $14,754. More mechanical problems than the competition paired with an outdated driving experience are reasons buyers should avoid the Escape.

VehicleHistory Image
likeFilled The Good
There’s more passenger room than other small SUVs, the fuel economy is good for the class, and there’s an optional V6 with a decent towing capacity.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Safety ratings are much worse than the other compact SUVs from the same year, the styling and interior are very outdated, and there’s not enough modern technology compared to rivals.

2012 Ford Escape: Quick Overview

  • There are no major changes for the 2012 model year, with a complete redesign for 2013.
  • Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, with a similar number of complaints to the older 2011 model.
  • Two engine choices are available, including a V6, which is rare for a compact SUV.
  • Fuel economy is good, tying for 3rd place out of 23 compact SUVs, with a combined rating of up to 25 miles per gallon.
  • Safety ratings are below average for the class, getting only 3 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
  • The 2012 Ford Escape ranks 9th out of 23 compact SUVs based on owner reviews. The Escape is just too outdated to recommend compared to the more advanced competition available in the same price range.

Expert Ratings

KBB
3.0/5
US News
7.7/10

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Bob L
Reliable vehicle for small family that gets good mpg but rust problem.
Reliable, must watch transmission level, all escapes have a rust problem around fenders, headrests need to be taken out to put down seats, pickup is good mpg is 23 mpg,vehicle is strong and can stand up to crashes, more storage in back would be nice for bad weather gear.
accountCircle Mara B
Ford escapes are a very reliable and durable vehicle.
I love the handling. The shift between manual and automatic is awesome. The interior is very sleek and makes you feel like you own a very expensive car.
accountCircle Jennifer M
Fun and reliable vehicle.
This has been a very reliable vehicle. The extra features, such as sync and seat warmers are a great addition.
accountCircle June L
Wonderful vehicle, fun to drive.
We love our escape. We have had no problems with the vehicle. It is very reliable and comfortable to drive. We love the body style of our 2012 the dashboard is user friendly. We have heated seats which are wonderful. The back seats are comfortable for passengers.
accountCircle Sarah H
Large vehicle for safety, small vehicle for control
It is a great small SUV where it feels large enough to feel safe on the road but it's not too big to handle driving. The drive and controls are very smooth for a quiet smooth ride. It's great having a rear windshield wiper and windshield fluid to keep rear visibility during rain. The sound system is very good for being a small SUV. If you enjoy hearing lots of bass in your music, it's fantastic, and if you don't it's still great.
accountCircle Judy S
Very reliable and tough vehicle.
I have had no problems with my vehicle besides normal wear and tear. It is very powerful for a midsize SUV. It is wonderful in the snow and have not ever been stuck in the snow. It also gets good gas mileage and is very reliable.
accountCircle Jonathan L
Lean, mean driving machine.
Has always been a very comfortable ride, although has always had an ongoing and recurring problem where the blind spot indicators will stop working on one side when starting the vehicle. The backup camera and proximity detection features have been a joy to use, and I have greatly enjoyed this vehicle.
accountCircle Ba E
Safe car for teenagers to learn and use.
The car is wonderful. We chose it because we felt confident that it would be same as I learned to drive in high school. The engine can get you out of any problem. We have had to replace the alternator but otherwise it still works very well or the amount of miles on it.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Faye Emordeno
Rust over car at 45,000
I bought my car 1 yr. Old. I drive it 10,000 less a year. But the back hatch window leaked the first year. Got it fixed. Still leaks. Rust around the seal of the hatch. Also bad rusting around rear wheels. At 45,000 miles. I see this on every one of these cars and it hasn’t been recalled . Idk if people aren’t complaining or Ford isn’t listening ! But someone d**n well should! I paid good money for this car! And there’s more issues as well but this is the main ones!
accountCircle Donna L Lamb
Rust and more Rust
My 2012 Ford Escape had rust issues at around 50,000 miles and less than 5 years old. Approached both dealership and headquarters here in Michigan. They would do nothing because rust hadn't gone through metal. I would like to start a class action suit...if anyone would like to join me please email me at [Personally Identifiable Information Removed] and I will find us an attorney.
accountCircle Kim C
I have had nothing but problems since the warranty expired.
It is a Ford. Not really a for sure way to tell if it is running bad or not. The payments are to high, the battery has never been replaced, and everything is falling apart.
accountCircle Carrie J
It's a lemon and should be avoided until Ford completely reconfigures it.
Back window leaks during rain, air conditioner fan continuously quits (have had to have it serviced 6 times this year), due to a design flaw, debris constantly clogs the air conditioner flow box.
accountCircle Joe B. Nolter
Ford not Designed or Built Tough Enough
I would not recommend this vehicle. Poorly designed and poorly built. The 2012 was the last year for this model and FORD did not fix or attempt to fix the major problems with it. Back Window leaks! Air conditioning beakdowns and expensive to fix!! Rust, especially in the back panels (Just about every other escape I see on the road has the back panel visible rust problems!!! I thought the rust problems for most cars were solved a decade and a half ago. The A/C breakdowns on new cars are inexcusable. The Ford Company have design teams manned and supervised by __________ .
accountCircle Deanna
Safety
I would not recommend this car, I got into a very back accident on June 20/20 I got t-boned by someone who ran a red light he was doing 85kph-90kph the side impact airbags didn't go off and when I hit the pole from the impact the front airbags didn't go off either and no window broke. I'm just wondering if anyone else had this problem? Thanks to everyone who read my review!
accountCircle Tia E
It is good for snowy weather.
It does not save gas. Ford has too many recalls on their cars. It is always something wrong with the car every time I look up. The only thing I like is that it is good for the snow and it has good traction. I bought the car used so I had to put a lot of money into the maintenance.
accountCircle Gina C
To many recalls and defects with the Ford Escape.
This vehicle is known for having the rear window seal leak and it has to be replaced frequently. It does not handle well. It has had several recalls. I don't feel this car is a good value for what I paid for it. I would not recommend this vehicle.

What Problems Does the 2012 Ford Escape Have?

The 2012 Ford Escape has more complaints than other compact SUVs on the market, but some of the most common issues are not mechanical. There are fewer problems than the redesigned 2013 version.

Excessive rust, and other paint problems are extremely common. The only solution is to remove the rust from the affected panels, use a rust inhibitor, and paint them again. Solving the problem costs about $700 depending on local labor rates.

Leaks from the rear window are another frequent problem. The seals on the window fail and have to be replaced to prevent leaking. Replacements cost about $260.

Air conditioning problems are also mentioned by owners. A/C compressors fail frequently, and the system leaks refrigerant. If you need to recharge the system the costs are around $150, but if you need a new compressor the prices are about $1,200.

There are 2 recalls, which is better than some other compact SUVs on the market. The recalls include a front wheel bearing, and a fuel delivery module. Most serious is the fuel delivery module, since a leak could cause a fire.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2012 Ford Escape is average priced for a compact SUV with a price range of $8,280 to $14,754. When new, the price range was $21,440 to $28,120. Depreciation is average, losing about 40% of the original value in the first 5 years.

  • XLS is the entry-level model with 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, power windows and locks, as well as a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback and an aux jack.
  • XLT is in the middle of the lineup with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a power driver’s seat, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as steering wheel audio controls.
  • Limited is the flagship choice with unique 16-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, and a touchscreen infotainment system with a 7-speaker stereo.
car
car
XLT
171-240 HP 20-23 MPG
car
Limited
171-240 HP 20-23 MPG
car
car
Hybrid Limited
177 HP 29 MPG

How Long Will the 2012 Ford Escape Last?

A properly cared for 2012 Ford Escape will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for the class. Regular annual maintenance costs are a bit more expensive than some competitors. Repair Pal estimates them to be $569 per year.

accountCircle Vicky B

We had transmission problems, but once it was fixed no further issues. There does seem to be some moisture issues, but overall no problems.

accountCircle Linda F

Yes, it is quite reliable, although it does have some rust on the wheel wells. It seems a bit strange since the vehicle is only 7 years old.

accountCircle Amy O

It is reliable... I typically park it in the garage during the winter, and leave it out in the summer. Even when the temp is in single digits, and I leave it outside, it starts every time! I had problems with the lift glass on the back and had it disconnected.

accountCircle Karen P

I have been very satisfied with the performance of both my escapes. My only complaint is that escapes tend to rust in the wheel wells.

accountCircle Clentis T

Yes, it is very reliable. I have had very few problems with it other than routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotation, etc.

accountCircle Matt K

I have not yet had any problems with my vehicle at all. It drives so smoothly and I love the way it drives.

accountCircle John M

There have been zero problems. The only things that have been replaced have been wear items. These include tires, brakes, and one front wheel bearing.

accountCircle maureen k

The problem I have noticed is the rust under the wheel area. I have known other people with the same car that have the exact same problem. Besides that the driving is fine. I have had it for awhile now and haven't experienced very many issues. Like I said in the previous question it has been great during the winter with the all wheel drive.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is very dated in the 2012 Ford Escape, with a complete redesign coming out for the 2013 model year.

  • Base technology is very basic and includes a simple AM/FM/CD stereo system with a standard 3.5mm AUX input.
  • Optional upgrades include a touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as 6 and 7-speaker stereo systems.
  • Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and airbags throughout the cabin. Optional upgrades include parking sensors and a rearview camera.

VehicleHistory Image

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is average for a compact SUV, and is not very exciting to drive. With the upgraded V6, the 2012 Ford Escape goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.1 seconds, and can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

  • The base engine is a 2.5l 4-cylinder with 171 horsepower.
  • An upgraded 3.0L V6 is available, and ha 240 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Escape?

The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact SUV, and is similar in size to a lot of the rivals. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin, with a high ceiling and room for adults in the back seats. Cargo space is a bit smaller than some competitors with 29 cubic feet of room behind the seats, and 66 when they are folded flat. There’s still enough room to fit 5 suitcases.

Centered wide dash shot

How Does the 2012 Ford Escape Compare to Other SUVs?

Ranking 9th out of 23 compact SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Ford Escape is near the middle of the class.

One of the highest-rated competitors is the more expensive Honda CR-V. The CR-V stands out with better long-term reliability ratings, and more room for passengers and cargo. Where the Escape comes out ahead is with better power with the optional V6, and a more efficient 4-cylinder. Overall, the CR-V is a better choice since they will last much longer.

A close competitor in the same price range is the Hyundai Tucson. The Tucson has a better interior, and is a safer choice with higher crash test ratings. An Escape, on the other hand, has better off-road capabilities, and more room for passengers. Neither SUV is a good choice though, since the Tucson has engine failures, and the Escape is too outdated for the cost.

Ranks #9 Compact SUV by Owners

1
car
4.67
2
car
4.52
9
Tie
car
4.28

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford Escape a Good SUV?

No, the 2012 Ford Escape is not a good SUV based on information from 964 verified owner reviews, and 14 government and automotive websites. The Escape offers a roomy cabin for a compact SUV, and a V6 with decent power for the class. Downsides include outdated styling and technology, as well as a cheap interior with a lot of plastic. Overall, the 2012 Escape is an outdated SUV and not worth buying used.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Roger Imes on February 9, 2023
So Happy With The Escape - We Bought 2
Started out buying a 2012 Ford Escape XLT (Gold) with the 2.5l. Wife and I both loved it so much when it came time to replace our second vehicle, I started my hunt for another 2012 Escape. Finally found one (2012 Escape with 2.5l (Toreador Red) at a descent price about 200 miles from me. Road Trip !! Now we have two of them and are happy, Gold one has approx 165k miles and Red one has 110k miles. Only trouble we’ve had is the AC valve on the firewall went out on the Gold one. I would HIGHLY recommend this model and this year to anyone who wants a dependable SUV. No troubles, no problems, no regrets !! Have done a lot of lighting upgrades to both and have zero problems with anything. General maintenance is all that is required as with any vehicle.
accountCircle Wolf on August 23, 2023
These are everywhere, this article is bullshit
Bought a 2012Fordescape with the 3.0 V6 in 2021 145,000 miles on it. Haven't had any problems with it since owning it. This article is a joke, we recently took it camping to the bighorn mtns in Wyoming from Montana, towed 3 four wheelers and all of our supplies for camping. It cruised at 75-80 mph and didn't struggle to find gears, this thing is impressive. If you're high maintenance and have a status to project then this isn't for you, if you're looking for a reliable practical SUV I recommend this to anyone. The new ones look like eggs And I Prefer the 08-12 model years because they don't look stupid.
accountCircle Monique on December 9, 2021
Bought my new in 2012
I am the only owner. 135k im miles now. Zero problems with it. One set of new tires now. Regular oil changes & such. Many roads trips, its higher off the ground than the usual CUVs out now. Making it to want to sell it. I LOVE This car!
accountCircle Paul K on November 30, 2021
So good own 2!
This small SUV is so good, I own two for two of my daughters. Bought one with 100k miles, still going strong at 180k with no major repairs. So i bought another one with 70k on the clock. No qualms at all wit my daughters being 350+ miles from home with the cars!
accountCircle Kimberly S on June 25, 2021
2012 ford escape XLT review.
My vehicle has had no major problems during the past 6 years I have owned it. I have been pleased with it is performance. It is a great size. It has made many trips to the mountains. It has been my favorite vehicle I have owned. I would definitely recommend it.
accountCircle RD M on June 25, 2021
2012 ford escape xls runs reliably.
I haven't had any unexpected expenses with this vehicle. I have only had to spend money on the usual things, gas, oil changes, tires, brakes and battery. The vehicle runs reliably. Since it is a CUV, it can haul people and or cargo easily. I will seriously consider buying another ford vehicle for my next purchase.
accountCircle Grace H on June 21, 2021
Great and efficient car for travel.
I have not had the vehicle very long but so far no problems. I have owned the car a couple months and it runs smoothly with a decent miles per gallon. I would prefer a better miles per gallon than the twenty one I have on this car, but overall it runs nice and smoothly. The display inside the car is very nice and easy to navigate. I like this car and it is pretty efficient in everything needed.
accountCircle Bob B on June 20, 2021
Comfortable and dependable.
Owned this car for 8 years. Bought it to get off our hill when it snows. It has never let me down. Very few repairs. I get the oil changed every 5000 miles and have only replaced the tires once. Drove it over the mountains to pick up my kids at college many times without trouble. Still looks and runs great.
accountCircle Sky W on June 18, 2021
Perfect size just needs more powerful engine.
Drives well, but lacks power, must remove back seat headrests to fold the seats down, hard to access spare tire. I like the sirius radio that's built in, seats are comfortable enough, grips the road well during slippery conditions. I've had no real problems during the 6 years of driving.
accountCircle Calvin B on June 18, 2021
Ford escape for country folk.
My ford escape is a great option for somebody who lives in a rural area. Having a vehicle with a higher body lets me go more places in the country than I would be able to with a sedan. It is not exactly an off roading vehicle, but it gets me more places. I also like the amount of space that it provides for transporting large items.
accountCircle Jordyn M on June 17, 2021
Good things, and bad things.
I really enjoy my vehicle—it's comfortable and has been reliable during the time I have used it. However, I have had issues in the past with the heating as well as the air conditioning where neither would work properly. A broken, melting belt very nearly set my car on fire once (thankfully dodged a bullet there), but it had caused smoke to come from the hood—it was a scary event. Then there's been general maintenance and needed 'updating' to the vehicle (for lack of better terminology) due to the vehicle being both used and a number of years old.
accountCircle Amy S on June 16, 2021
Perfect SUV for small family.
The ford escape is a great family car. All the appeal of a sedan with the room of an SUV. Great gas mileage. Mine gets 26-29 mpg. Available in manual transmission which was a plus for me. I have not had any major issues thus far, mechanically. Over all, I love my ford escape!
accountCircle Megan S on June 14, 2021
Very reliable vehicle, would recommend.
It is a reliable car, it does not hold up well to wet and salty road conditions for long. The underside is really rusty and makes getting things fixed or replaced more challenging. I haven’t had any issues with this car for the first 10 years. Overall I am happy with this car.
accountCircle Logan C on June 13, 2021
The vehicle is very good and I would recommend.
My vehicle is very good and I would recommend this car to anyone. It is a great first car for kids and is very easy to drive. The only problem I have is that the seats do not fold all the way down so you cannot stuff everything in the back. But the trunk has a lot of room.
accountCircle Grace G on June 12, 2021
It has Bluetooth and a padlock which is really great.
My car is great it has GPS navigation and has Bluetooth. The gas mileage is great also. I do not have to spend to much money at all on gas. My car runs great and has plenty of room and a lot of extra storage. It is a perfect car for someone with kids or someone who is a new driver. It also has a padlock for when you accidentally lock your keys in your car.
accountCircle Erinn W on June 11, 2021
Good American car, I love the heated seats.
I like the heated seats, I drive a lot of highway miles and I get about 21 miles to a gallon of gas. I like having the moonroof. The back is roomy enough for our pit bull to be comfortable. The roof rack comes in handy as well. It does well in the New England weather with all the snow.
accountCircle Noelle G on June 9, 2021
Ford escape fanatic- white with tan interior.
I love the smooth ride I experience when driving my car. It is my second ford escape. Great cargo space, great brakes, and this vehicle gets great gas mileage. Easy to maneuver off road. The vehicle has a great stereo system with hands free calling, Sirius satellite radio, and volume and cruise control buttons on the steering wheel.
accountCircle Erin R on June 3, 2021
Great crossover for the average person.
My car can be somewhat uncomfortable when driven, you can feel all the bumps along the road. The turning radius is also not very good. It can take me a little bit to get my car turned around or parked sometimes. The car is sturdy and I have little problems with this model. I like the look and the trunk space is great to have with the seats folding down easily.
accountCircle Tom B on May 30, 2021
Excellent mid size SUV with great gas mileage.
My ford escape with the v6 engine has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. Gas mileage is also excellent. Cost of ownership is very reasonable. Gas mileage is excellent. Excellent internal space to carry small to medium size loads. Paint job has stayed very bright.
accountCircle Pat G on May 27, 2021
Love my ford escape and it serves me well.
I have not had any real problems. I have an oil leak that just leaks in winter but not in summer. They tell me it is because metal shrinks in cold and expands in heat. I love my ford escape and would buy another one in a minute. I love that my seats are electric and move smoothly.
accountCircle ashley M on May 27, 2021
Right amount of space on the inside. Back seats fold perfect for families.
Have issues with the fan nothing works unless it's set on full blast, some electronic issues. Not bad of a car once repairs are done. Issues with vapor lock. Good trunk space and storage departments. I have leather seats so I love that for when kids are in the car.
accountCircle Belle S on May 24, 2021
Great car that is great for a family.
It saves money on gas and I like it a lot. It is really roomie and I love that I can fold down the seats for extra ability to haul large items. The fabric is easy to clean especially with kids. I definitely like it a lot. I would totally recommend this car to anyone.
accountCircle Brianna K on May 24, 2021
The floor lights are so fun and unique! The sound system is awesome.
I love everything about the car except the engine. I have had a lot of problems with the engine. I have had it replaced and it still has smoked and broken down on me over 6x on the freeway. It is scary and dangerous to have the gas pedal not work and the car screen saying pull over engine light on out of nowhere. The inside is super nice. I love the floor lights, the air system and the radio and audio.
accountCircle Nicole S on May 23, 2021
If I had the choice, I would get a different vehicle.
Good car except it is rusting pretty badly. This is around the tailgate, back doors and wheels. Also have had continuing issues with the ball joints. I had them replaced a couple years ago and I have been told at inspections since that the ball joints are loose. Also the tailgate randomly does not open for some reason.
accountCircle Debra L on May 22, 2021
Visibility, dependability.
This car is excellent in snow. It is easy to back up because of the windows, I can see all around me. The escape is very dependable, this is my second one and have never had any mechanical problems even though my first one had over 100,000 miles on it.
accountCircle Kailie S on May 20, 2021
Love my 2012 ford escape!
Really reliable car. Only started having minor maintenance problems at 75k miles after 8 years. Very comfortable and spacious for a small SUV. Trunk space is perfect if you travel, play sports, etc. I have taken this car on multiple road trips and it is been great for that. Gas mileage could be better but this is an older model so I am sure the newer ones are better. I love the exterior of the car, I was really sad when they changed it in more recent models.
accountCircle Fawn H on May 20, 2021
I think escapes are great vehicles with good gas mileage.
I am on my second escape. They’re good vehicles with a good amount of space. I have always drove trucks but this was a good replacement. I do not feel like I am in a tiny car and it is great on gas mileage. Both of my escapes have been a little quirky. My last one had to be left running while you put gas in it. Also, both of my rear windshield wipers have been a problem. The last one just stopped working but my current escape has to be unhooked. The wiper was drawing power from the battery and killing it.
accountCircle Emily K on May 19, 2021
A great and reliable car. Great for road trips and everyday use.
Very spacious but not too much that it feels too large. The view point from the drivers seat is nice and open. I have great visibility when merging. Big trunk so great for groceries. There’s heated seats and that is always a plus. Minor break issue, there was a kink in the break.
accountCircle Sara A on May 17, 2021
Ford is for me and my family.
Works good and not too many issues. I like the drive and feel of the drive. Decent on gas. Good amount of room is inside the vehicle. Great for pet owners good room for dogs. Nice car for families of 4 and 5. Vi like this car a lot and would buy a new one. Seats up front are comfy.
accountCircle Erik O on May 14, 2021
Small, fuel efficient and dependable.
Rides comfortable while also being capable of leaving paved roads. I wish there was a little more ground clearance for deep snow in the Midwest, but it's not a bad height for getting in and out. I have no problems towing and the short axle to axle span allows easy trailer backing. The automatic four wheel drives kicks in fast without “clunking”. Parts are affordable which is a benefit when something does go wrong and many mechanics work on this car. Seats are firm and appear long lasting. There is plenty of storage and open space. Front has plenty of leg room, but I wish the back seat was a little roomier by my legs. There is nice tool storage under the rear carpet. Spare tire is a donut, which I wish was a full size. Fuel efficiency is what someone should expect with a 6 cylinder SUV.
accountCircle Amber F on May 8, 2021
The sunroof and extremely cold air plus the space.
This car is very spacious no problems so far. The sunroof is very big my son loves it. The gas mileage is great works perfect for me. We love to travel, so taking her on a road trip is perfect. Definitely a great family car we have one kid and another on the way so there’s a lot of space for both car seats.
accountCircle Caroline S on May 8, 2021
The blue exterior is beautiful. Always easy to spot.
Great on gas mileage, runs well, ford has great roadside assistance, would love to buy a newer version of the escape, love the trunk room, lots of seating, perfect for a family. Great for long road trips and very comfortable. Looks very clean, we love the blue color and tires look great. Engine runs well.
accountCircle Remy N on May 7, 2021
Great, reliable compact SUV.
Reliable and compact while still having plenty of room. Mechanically, I have had no problems with my car as long as you upkeep with the oil changes and basic maintenance. The seats are difficult to clean and, which is my only complaint. It is a very odd material that seems to stain be tu easily no matter what you spill on there.
accountCircle Max R on May 4, 2021
The ranger of SUVs: 2012 ford escape review.
Many of the on board instruments like the radio display have stopped functioning as well as the climate control in the cabin. But there are good things. The car is very comfortable with leather seating and heated seats. The car also handles well and acts like a truck.
accountCircle Sesha G on April 29, 2021
Wonderful small size SUV.
Issues with ac. Fixed it several times. Good all around vehicle for travel and can fit large amount inside. Still driving over 100,00 miles. No major me issues other than ac breaking. Love this SUV. Took several long trips across the state, can sleep inside if necessary. Has roof racks already in place for kayak.
accountCircle Marcos N on April 27, 2021
Great vehicle, just stay on top of maintenance.
This vehicle has been almost pain free for more than 8 years. Now that it is an older car, it has it is issues, even with regular maintenance. The exhaust pipe roots close to the manifold, and you hear the engine a lot louder. Also, the shock absorbers and struts are an item that you need extreme care of, and the brake pads have to be purchased direct from manufacturer, because the aftermarket pads were made front to the year, not even the end of prior year, or beginning of next year fit, the prongs are different from OEM pads.
accountCircle dena T on April 18, 2021
The amazing adventures of Ethel.
My car is a very reliable. Gas mileage is great. I only have to fill up once a week. I make sure that I keep my oil changed and fluids topped off. I like the back space so I can carry around things and not have to use the back seats. The sound system is really good.
accountCircle Abby H on April 17, 2021
The escape of the ford review.
It seats 5 people. There is plenty of room in the trunk, and the air conditioning works well. I have not had a problem with it since getting it. The battery is around 6 months old. Everything is spacious and it fits three car seats. The gauges has a window that will tell you your oil life and how many miles till its empty.
accountCircle Joy E on April 12, 2021
The car is amazing. Great but!
The car is very reliable. I has great pickup speed. I have not had any issues with my car. The car does have some minor issues. It does not have Bluetooth connection or it does not have a sunroof. The car does however, have a very large truck space which is great for storage.
accountCircle Brittany L on April 11, 2021
Problems with ford escape.
The sun roof leaks and is a common problem according to ford service department. During another incident my accelerator did not register and an error code appeared, again this was a common problem with this make and model per the ford service department. Material for seats are cheap and easily stain.
accountCircle Ann D on April 10, 2021
Ford escape 2012 limited edition the good and bad.
Water leak tailgate and hinges for tailgate glass broke. These are common issues due to poor design. Most that I have seen also have rear wheel wells rusting out. Rides nice, other features are great back up camera is great to have. Along with heated seats.
accountCircle Ashley K on April 8, 2021
Extremely reliable vehicle.
My ford escape is wonderful. It is extremely reliable and great for driving in the winter in the Midwest. The only complaint that I have is sometimes it shifts slowly and kicks back when I accelerate. There is also a little rust in the wheelhouse area, but I know that is common for ford escapes.
accountCircle Jennifer S on April 6, 2021
2012 ford escape is a great family vehicle.
This is the second ford escape I have purchased because I like it so much. It is comfortable and has enough space for my children in the back seat. I love the large trunk and am able to put the seats down for even more room. I have not had any problems. It is reliable and drives well in all weather conditions. One negative I have noticed with 2012 and previous models is rust forms above the back wheel wells.
accountCircle Christine F on April 4, 2021
I think it is important to know that the mileage is not great. If you are looking for a mid-size SUV this is the perfect car.
I like the size of the car, but I do not like how much and how fast I go through gas.
accountCircle Dynthia W on April 4, 2021
Mid-sized ford SUV, compact but big on reliability and fuel savings!
The 2012 ford escape is a pretty decent vehicle. It runs smoothly and performs well for the 6 cylinder SUV that it is. It will get up and go on the highway with no problems and gets pretty good gas mileage. The interior is a bit basic and could use more compartments and a USB port in the back seat for passengers. It is comfortable overall, but could use an adjustable lumbar support.
accountCircle Celia E on April 2, 2021
Dislikes of my ford escape.
It is not nearly as spacious as most SUVs and the gas mileage is terrible. But it is 4 wheel drive and it had a lot of power. There is also no auxiliary power supply. And the cigarette lighter on the bottom does not work. But it is nice for a all SUV. The back hatch is very spacious.
accountCircle Sarah M on April 1, 2021
It is a great car for a growing family. Not to big or small.
Overall I love my car. It runs beautifully and has just the right amount of space. The only issue we have seemed to have with it is the ac. It only works on the highest setting and if It's really hot outside it will not work a all.
accountCircle Jenae J on April 1, 2021
Smooth ride, but rust problem.
It drives very smooth, especially on the highway. It is also easy to control. The worst part of this vehicle is that it has rusted out in multiple places. The seats fold down to fit plenty in the back. The factory speakers are not quality, but can be replaced fairly easily.
accountCircle James B on March 31, 2021
Kids love the color changing lights.
My ford escape has all the bells and whistle that I love. Heated seats, great ac and heater. Keyless entry. It's one of the most comfortable cars I have ever had the privilege to drive. Downside is the tailgate is failing so I can always open my trunk.
accountCircle Kathie A on March 30, 2021
It is super reliable, safe and smooth riding. Good gas mileage, for an SUV.
Favorite body style. Smooth ride. Dislike that the console looks dated. Love the rear park aid. Love the interior lights and heated seats.
accountCircle Susan W on March 29, 2021
It's a great family car. Weather you're heading to a weekend trip or just grabbing groceries.
Has been an amazing vehicle. Reliable, comfortable, good on gas. High safety ratings and has proven to be safe and resilient during an accident.
accountCircle Lauren h on March 28, 2021
I have kids riding in the back. There's plenty of room!
Having an suv has been so much more practical compared to the mustang I owned previously.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.