What are the common problems on a 2012 Ford Taurus SEL?

The most frequently reported issues for the 2012 Taurus SEL involve the automatic transmission, electrical/infotainment glitches (notably MyFordTouch), and power steering-related concerns. Other common trouble spots include cooling system wear, engine performance quirks, and wear in suspension and brakes. This article outlines those categories, what to check, and how to approach diagnosis and maintenance.

Mechanical concerns

Overview of the mechanical issues most commonly reported for the 2012 Taurus SEL by owners and service data. This includes the transmission, engine performance, and wear in suspension and braking systems.

Transmission and driveline

Transmission-related issues reported by owners of the 2012 Taurus SEL include harsh or slipping shifts, delayed engagement, and, in some cases, torque converter shudder. These symptoms can stem from wear in the six-speed automatic transmission and may require software updates or transmission service.

• Harsh or slipping shifts and occasional delay when engaging drive


• Torque converter shudder or rough shifting at highway speeds


• Transmission overheating or failure reports in higher-mileage examples

Conclusion: Regular transmission fluid checks, adherence to service advisories, and software updates can help, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified technician.

Engine performance and cooling

Engine performance concerns most often relate to misfires, rough idle, or reduced power in the 3.5-liter V6. Ignition components, fuel injectors, and coil packs are common culprits. Cooling-system components like the water pump or thermostat leaks can lead to overheating if neglected.

• Engine misfires or rough idle with the check engine light


• Ignition coil or spark plug failures


• Cooling-system leaks from the water pump, hoses, or thermostat

Conclusion: If you notice overheating or misfire codes, diagnose promptly to avoid potential damage and costly repairs.

Suspension and braking wear

Front suspension wear and braking system issues are occasionally reported as the Taurus ages. Worn struts, control arms, and bushings can cause noise or handling concerns, while brake components may show premature wear or pulsing symptoms.

• Worn suspension components causing clunking or poor handling


• Premature brake wear or rotor pulsing


• ABS sensor or related brake electronics faults

Conclusion: Regular inspection of suspension and braking parts is important, especially on higher-mileage examples, to maintain handling and safety.

Electrical and infotainment challenges

In-car electronics from this period — notably the MyFordTouch and related SYNC features — have been a frequent source of owner complaints. Here is a look at common electrical-related issues.

MyFordTouch and infotainment

MyFordTouch/Sync glitches include touchscreen lag, freezes, and unresponsive controls. Software updates and calibration can mitigate some issues, but persistent problems may require dealer intervention or component replacement.

• Touchscreen freeze or slow response


• Bluetooth pairing or reconnection problems


• Navigation inaccuracies or software glitches


• Dashboard/instrument cluster lag or dimming displays

Conclusion: Infotainment issues are common for this era; keeping software up to date and performing resets can help, but some cars require professional diagnosis or module replacements.

Electrical and charging concerns

Other electrical problems include battery drain, alternator wear, and intermittent instrument cluster or lighting faults. These can manifest as slow cranking, a dead battery after short periods, or flickering lights.

• Battery drain or slow starts from parasitic electrical draws


• Alternator or charging system faults causing dim lights or charging warnings


• Intermittent gauge illumination or instrument cluster failures


• Backup camera issues or parking-sensor glitches

Conclusion: Electrical issues can be intermittent; a thorough test of the charging system and battery health, along with a software check for infotainment, can catch problems early.

Maintenance, recalls, and how to assess a Taurus SEL

When evaluating a used 2012 Taurus SEL, understanding recall history and current condition is key. The model shares components with other Ford sedans of the era, and some campaigns targeted transmissions and steering components. Always verify VIN-specific recall status and review maintenance records to gauge service history.

What to check before purchase

Checklist before buying a used Taurus SEL includes documentation of service for the transmission, cooling system, brakes, and electrical system, along with any open recalls and software updates for MyFordTouch.

• VIN-based recall check and service history


• Evidence of transmission fluid service and software updates


• Inspection of cooling system components (water pump, hoses, thermostat) and coolant condition


• Brake wear, rotor/pad condition, and ABS sensor checks


• Test of MyFordTouch/Sync features during a test drive

Conclusion: A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic and a clear recall history can help identify issues before they become costly repairs.

Summary

The 2012 Ford Taurus SEL can offer reliable service, but owner data and service records frequently point to several recurring trouble spots. Expect attention to the automatic transmission, infotainment/electrical systems (MyFordTouch), power steering, cooling and engine performance, and wear in brakes and suspension. Proactive maintenance, timely software updates, and a careful pre-purchase inspection are the best defenses against these common issues.

What are the bad years for Ford Taurus?

Years to avoid for the Ford Taurus include 2000–2005 due to widespread issues with the four-speed automatic transmission, the high-performance 1996–1999 SHO models because of the 3.4L V8 engine's reliability problems, and 2013–2018 models with their power steering issues and potentially the rear toe link problem. Other problematic years for specific issues include 2015–2016 for transmission failures and certain years for other problems like faulty power steering control modules or fuel pump issues, say CarGurus.com, Reddit users, and this YouTube video. 
Years to avoid

• 1996–1999 SHO: The 3.4L V8 engine in these performance models was prone to catastrophic failure, with camshafts detaching from sprockets. 
• 2000–2005: This generation is known for widespread complaints about the four-speed automatic transmission, which was unreliable despite attempts to fix it. 
• 2013–2018: These model years saw significant problems with the electric power steering system, which could fail suddenly. There were also recalls for rear toe link fractures and potential fuel pump issues. 
• 2015–2016: These years are particularly linked to internal transmission failures that result in the loss of gears. 

Other model years with specific issues

• 2011–2013: Affected by recalls for the electric power steering system. 
• 1990–1994, 1997–1998, and 2000, 2005, 2011, 2013: Reported to have white smoke emissions from the exhaust, indicating a blown head gasket or cracked cylinder head. 
• 1995–2010: Some models have reported longer crank times due to a faulty camshaft position sensor magnet. 
• 2017–2018: A recall was issued for ignition keys that could be removed when the transmission was not in park. 

What are the common problems on a 2012 Ford Taurus?

2012 Ford Taurus: Common Issues and Solutions Taurus models often face ignition coil failures and sensor-related engine misfires causing rough idling. For rough idling or misfires, inspect the ignition coils and spark plugs first. Faulty coils cause weak sparks, leading to poor combustion.

Is the 2012 Ford Taurus SEL a good car?

Among the 405 owners who provided feedback on the 2012 Ford Taurus for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 85% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and performance to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.

How many miles will a 2012 Ford Taurus last?

A 2012 Ford Taurus can have a life expectancy of around 150,000 miles or 10.2 years on average, but proper and consistent maintenance can help it last much longer, potentially over 200,000 miles. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, and addressing repairs promptly are crucial for extending its lifespan. 
Factors influencing longevity

• Average lifespan: The average lifespan is around 149,354 miles or 10.2 years. 
• High-mileage potential: The 2012 Taurus has a 16.9% chance of reaching 200,000 miles or more with proper care. 
• Maintenance is key: Proper, consistent maintenance is the most critical factor in a vehicle's longevity. A well-maintained Taurus can last hundreds of thousands of miles, while one with poor maintenance may not reach 100,000 miles. 
• Common issues: Potential weak spots to be aware of include the transmission, especially in older models, and potential oil leaks or engine issues that can occur with high mileage. 

Tips for extending the life of your 2012 Taurus

• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. 
• Change the engine oil regularly, for example, every 3,000 miles. 
• Flush and replace transmission, brake, and power steering fluids every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. 
• Address any minor or major repairs as soon as they are needed.