2012 Ford F-250 SD
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 4 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 9 |
| 1996 | 11 |
| 1997 | 39 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 249 |
| 2000 | 233 |
| 2001 | 288 |
| 2002 | 245 |
| 2003 | 178 |
| 2004 | 254 |
| 2005 | 295 |
| 2006 | 274 |
| 2007 | 54 |
| 2008 | 141 |
| 2009 | 23 |
| 2010 | 32 |
| 2011 | 122 |
| 2012 | 57 |
| 2013 | 21 |
| 2014 | 26 |
| 2015 | 22 |
| 2016 | 10 |
| 2017 | 73 |
| 2018 | 15 |
| 2019 | 9 |
| 2020 | 3 |
| 2021 | 0 |
| 2022 | 3 |
| 2023 | 43 |
| 2024 | 34 |
| 2025 | 15 |
| 2026 | 7 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
32% of complaints: steering — 18 distinct reports on file.
26% of complaints: engine — 15 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
AFTER DRIVING FOR 5 MINUTES A WARNING LIGHT CAME ON FOR THE REAR LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL- NO CHANGE IN THE DRIVABILITY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20141124
25% of complaints: suspension — 14 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD F-250 SD. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO WOBBLE VIOLENTLY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE WOBBLE WAS TO REDUCE THE SPEED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20181121
DEATH RATTLE YOU HIT BUMP IN HIGHWAY AND STARTS TO SHAKE ALL OVER, LIKE THE WHEELS ARE GOING TO FLY OFF.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171215
18% of complaints: electrical system — 10 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
AFTER DRIVING FOR 5 MINUTES A WARNING LIGHT CAME ON FOR THE REAR LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL- NO CHANGE IN THE DRIVABILITY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20141124
DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 65 MPH ,MY TRUCK STOPED RUNNING. THE COMPUTER SAID IT WAS LOW ON OIL,IT WAS NOT. THIS HAPPENED APPROX. 6 MORE TIMES BEFORE I GOT HOME.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180724
12% of complaints: engine and engine cooling — 7 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Vehicle Commanded Engine Shutdown
Icon Vehicle Dynamics, LLC (Icon) is recalling all 05-UP FSD 2.5 Centerline Stabilizer Kits with part number 65050. The kits were sold as an accessory for certain 2005-2021 Ford F-250 4X4 and F-350 4X4 pickup trucks.
Remedy: Icon will notify owners, and dealers will install a new shock assembly with a revised foam ring and steel support disc, free of charge. The recall began December 21, 2020. Owners may contact Icon customer service at 1-951-689-4266.
Campaign 20E090000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2012 Ford F-250 SD — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for steering issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20E090000 (equipment, steering, suspension) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2012 Ford F-250 SD reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2012 Ford F-250 SD is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Ford F-250 SD?
The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Ford F-250 SD have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.