Hey Scotty,
My in-laws are giving my wife and I their 2012 Ford Explorer XLT (~120,000). I know not to look a gifted horse in the mouth because we can really use a larger vehicle, but are there things I should look out for or expect to go wrong with that make and model? This wasn’t part of my plan to save up cash for a Toyota, but it will be nice. Any advice? Thanks. Also, this is a Wisconsin vehicle so I’m expecting rust city!
Nick
See below:
https://repairpal.com/2012-ford-explorer/problems
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Also, realize the naturally aspirated 3.5L Duratec V6 engine in that vehicle had the water pump driven by timing chain. Due to its location within the engine (and behind the timing cover), to get to the water pump you have to essentially take apart the engine which will get really expensive (easily $1,000-$2,000 job for a $40-ish water pump). Also, worst case if it leaks it can potentially take out the entire engine. It was a poor design on Ford’s part, unless they designed the water pump to last ‘forever’ (which they didn’t). The 2011-2016 Explorers experienced this issue the most:
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/articles/all-about-the-ford-explorer-water-pump-recalls
Unless the water pump has already been replaced (and no prior collateral damage done to the engine due to the water pump) I would not touch any Ford vehicle with those engines.
