The 2012 Ford F-150 is a full size truck with a price range of $12,252 to $32,509. The F-150 is more affordable than most other half ton trucks from the same year, and offers a wide range of features to satisfy shoppers.
2012 Ford F-150: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include new options packages with appearance changes, front axle improvements, and new wheels.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the older 2011 model.
- Four engine choices are available, including an efficient and powerful twin turbo V6 as well as a V8 with more power than other half ton trucks.
- Fuel economy is decent for the class, ranking 4th out of 7 trucks tested with a combined rating of up to 19 miles per gallon.
- Safety scores are average for a full size truck, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- The 2012 Ford F-150 ranks 10th out of 15 full size trucks based on owner reviews. Even though the F-150 does not rank high, a combination of a wide range of models and powerful engines earns our recommendation.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Ford F-150 Have?
The 2012 Ford F-150 has an average number of complaints compared to the other half-ton trucks released the same year. There are fewer problems than the newer 2013 model.
Engine problems, leading to a loss of power while driving, are the most common issue. Owners report throttle body and fuel pump failures cause the problems. Repairing the issue can cost over $2,000, depending on the failed components and local labor rates.
Power steering system problems are another frequent complaint. The electronic power steering system from Ford is a weak component, failing frequently across many vehicles. Replacing the entire steering assembly costs about $2,300.
Rear windows shattering while driving is another issue mentioned by owners. The issue is not very common, but the defroster seems to be a culprit in some cases. Replacing the window fixes the issue, costing about $600.
There are 4 recalls, which is better than some other trucks from the same year. The recalls include the occupant classification system, the drive indicator lights, and transmission downshifting. All are serious and can cause dangerous situations when they’re not addressed.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Ford F-150 is more affordable than many other trucks on the market, only being beaten by the Ram 1500. Prices range from $12,252 to $32,509, depending on the model and mileage, with the Raptor being the most valuable. When new, the price range was $23,500 to $52,305. Depreciation is average for a large truck, dropping about 35% in value over the first 5 years.
- XL is the entry-level model built for fleets with 17-inch steel wheels, vinyl seating, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio.
- XLT is next in the lineup with cloth seating, power locks and windows, cruise control, chrome trim, fog lights, and CD/AUX playback for the stereo.
- Lariat offers some luxury with 18-inch wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, dual-zone climate control, and a SYNC infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
- King Ranch focuses on off-road luxury with unique leather, two tone paint, suspension improvements, and new exterior trim.
- Platinum is built for city cruising with larger 20-inch chrome wheels, a single color paint job, lower suspension, and chrome accents around the exterior.
- SVT Raptor is an off-road focused model with a Fox suspension, off-road tires and wheels, additional skid plates, and a wider body.
How Long Will the 2012 Ford F-150 Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Ford F-150 will last about 300,000 miles, which is good for a full size truck. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than many half ton rivals. Repair Pal estimates them to be $893 per year.
Yes it is reliable. The few issues I have had with it are due to just normal wear and tear and are nothing that I wouldn't expect from other vehicles at this point.
My truck has had no major problems, starts every time when I need it to, have had the brakes done and 2 tires replaced.
Very reliable. I haven't had any major issues. It has never broken down before. It has always started up and I have never had a problem.
Mine had been reliable thus far, but as I have mentioned before I have only had it for 5 months. It is also road worthy.
Very reliable no major problems. I keep an eye to it make minor repairs and always making sure everything functions its supposed to.
No problems have been experienced by me up to date. I enjoy this truck a lot. Only thing is that it costs a lot to fill up with gas.
No problems I cannot change the tire myself but that's happened maybe twice since I have had the truck. Ball joints replaced once.
Our f150 has been very reliable. We haven't had any problems with it even when our teenagers were driving it. It is a tough truck.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very basic on entry-level models, but improves as you work your way through the lineup. Even with all of the technology packages, there are still fewer features than many other trucks.
- Base technology includes a simple 4-speaker AM/FM stereo system in the XL model, and adds CD and AUX playback to the XLT model.
- Upgrades include a Ford SYNC infotainment system, 8-inch touchscreen interface, Bluetooth and USB connections, navigation, as well as 6, 7, and 9-speaker stereos.
- Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, airbags, trailer sway control, as well as traction and stability control. Optional upgrades include the SOS crash system, which will notify Ford in the event of an accident.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Ford F-150 is excellent for a full size truck. The fastest motor is the twin-turbo V6, which takes 6.5 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour. Towing is a strong-suit for the truck as well, pulling a class-leading 11,300 pounds with the 6.2L V8 or 3.5L V6.
- The base engine is a 3.7L V6 with 302 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque.
- An optional upgrade is the 5.0L V8, which has 360 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Next in the lineup is the twin-turbo V6 producing 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The flagship engine is the 6.2L V8, which makes 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the F-150?
The 2012 Ford F-150 is a half-ton truck, and is similar in size to a lot of the competitors including the Silverado and Ram 1500 series. There are three cabin choices available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door SuperCab, and larger 4-door SuperCrew. Passenger room is excellent in the SuperCrew cab, but is a bit cramped for adults in the backseats of the SuperCab.
There are also three bed lengths available depending on the cabin configuration. The available options are 5-foot-6-inch, 6-foot-6-inch, and 8-foot lengths.
How Does the 2012 Ford F-150 Compare to Other Trucks?
Ranking 10th out of 15 full size trucks, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Ford F-150 is in the lower half of the class.
The highest-rated half ton truck from 2012 is the more expensive Toyota Tundra. Where the Tundra stands out is with a standard V8 engine, and better reliability ratings. The F-150, on the other hand, has a higher towing capacity, and more customization choices offering better luxury and off-road performance. Overall, the Tundra is a longer-lasting truck, but the F-150 is more capable and fun.
A close competitor is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, which has a higher starting price. The Chevy is a more affordable truck to own long-term with fewer expensive services, and has a higher-quality interior. Where the Ford stands out is with the off-road performance of the Raptor, and the ability to pull more weight. Choosing between the two trucks ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford F-150 a Good Truck?
Yes, the 2012 Ford F-150 is a good truck based on information including 447 verified owner reviews, and 16 government and automotive websites. Positives include a wide range of options and models to find the perfect truck for you, and excellent towing capacities. Downsides include some steering issues, as well as higher ownership costs than rivals. Overall, the 2012 F-150 is a decent truck, but quality improves more in 2014.