2012 ford escape
Asked by cvg1980 Aug 17, 2016 at 03:22 PM about the 2012 Ford Escape
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
I bought it in January with 45000 miles on it. Every time I take it on long trips the check engine light comes on for a cylenoid error. I notice that my car is sputtering at higher speeds, seems like it is loosing fuel. Everyone that has been in my car has told me there is a major issue with this vehicle. Now the 8th time I have had it in with what they tell me is a false code. Does anyone have any idea what is going on here as 3 different shops seem stumped.
5 Answers
So what is the code? Year? Is it 2 or 4 wheel Drive? Is it a Hybrid? I Agree with your friends - don't buy an Escape - and I've been a Ford Guy all my life!
2012 all wheel drive, hybrid but i only use regular gas P0022 and p0012
Both codes refer to the Variable Camshaft Timing Control. Are you taking it to a Ford Dealer that has trained Technicians? According to your description of how it performs, the codes make sense. Are you using the proper viscosity of motor oil? 5w-20 Synthetic (full or blended) is the only oil recommended for this engine. Since the Variable Cam Timing components operate with Engine oil pressure and Electrical Solenoids, an improper viscosity and Grade of oil can have this effect. BTW - There is no such thing as a "False Code" - just a False Mechanic that's in over his head and doesn't want to admit it.
I am getting the car back today after 4 days and made sure they did another oil change so that is 2 in under 4000 miles. They told me they pull all the solenoids cleaned the heads, cleaned other parts which I can fill in when I get the paperwork tomorrow. They want me to drive it and see how it acts and they said if it acts up bring it back to them. Which would be for the 9th time. It is going to a Ford dealer but I am loosing faith in this vehicle. This is weird because I had my 2001 escape for 256000 miles and 14 years before I finally spun a rod. I sold it to my buddy and he fixed the engine and said that truck runs like a tank. That was the only reason I went back to ford because I did have a great vehicle. Bring me back 4 wheels a motor and a steering wheel any day, more bells and whistles means more problems.