Should I buy a 2012 Ford F-350 with documented engine problems?

Depends on the price and the specific vehicle. Documented engine issues should be priced into the purchase — if the seller is asking full retail, negotiate down by the expected repair cost. A pre-purchase inspection from an independent shop tells you whether THIS specific vehicle has already shown the symptoms or not.

2012 Ford F-350 engine problems

moderate 36 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100

Complaints

Recalls

Crashes

Avg fix

$3,100

Related recalls

severe NHTSA 13V380000 23/08/2013

Manning Equipment Inc

Excessive heat build up in rear compartment could result in fire.

Fix: Manning Equipment has notified owners, and dealers will install tailpipe extensions free of charge. The recall has already begun. Owners may contact Manning Equipment at 1-502-426-5210.

severe NHTSA 13V535000 30/10/2013

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 F-350/450/550 Ambulance Package vehicles manufactured February 22, 2010, through October 19, 2012 and equipped with a 6

An unexpected engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, if this were to occur when the ambulance is transporting a patient, there is an increased risk of injury to the patient.

Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S10.

What owners are reporting 3 most recent

engine · filed 12/25/2013

DUE TO EGT SENSOR READING HIGH EG TEMPS TRUCK SHUT OFF WITH NO WARNING. LEFT ME STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY STREET UNTIL A GOOD SAMARITAN PULLED ME TO THE CURB. TRUCK WAS FULLY LOADED, BUT NOT OVER LOADED. *TR

engine · filed 12/13/2014

TURBO CHARGER TUBE FAILED AT THE PLASTIC CONNECTION JOINT ON THE TURBO. PLASTIC CONNECTION BROKE CAUSING A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER AT HIGHWAY SPEED. 4-FAILURES IN FLEET TRUCKS WITH THE SAME ISSUE. ONE TURBO HOSE HAD A CRIMP BAND JOINT FAILURE. THIS COULD RESULT IN A REAR END CRASH ON A TRUCK PULLING A TRAILER. FORD SAID ITS NOT A PROBLEM. 6.7 ENGINE EQUIPPED. *TR

engine · filed 12/01/2014

THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THAT MY TRUCK HAS LEFT ME ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. FORD HAD A RECALL OF ALL 2012 AMBULANCE F350 BECAUSE OF THIS EXACT SITUATION AND IS LEAVING THE CONSUMER TO WORRY WITH IT ON THEIR OWN. THE ACTUAL PROBLEM IS THE EGT SENSOR 13 AND 14 IN THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. THESE SENSORS CONTINUE TO FAIL AND ALL FORD CAN DO IS TO KEEP MY VEHICLE FOR 4-5 DAYS AND TELL ME THAT THEY CANT FIN…

Common questions

How serious is the engine problem on the 2012 Ford F-350?

It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 36 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.

At what mileage does the engine typically fail?

Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.

What does it cost to fix?

Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.

Are there any recalls related to engine?

Yes — 2 active recall(s) cover engine issues on this vehicle. Recall fixes are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status. Use the VIN decoder at the top of the page to check if your specific vehicle is affected.