FORD AUTO TRAIL (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 134 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Total Tests (2024)
134
Avg Mileage
33,930 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 84% of FORD AUTO TRAILs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 134 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 33,930 miles.
How does the 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL has 33,930 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a FORD AUTO TRAIL?
The most reliable year is the 2014 model with a 90% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 84%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FORD AUTO TRAIL by Year
Checking a specific FORD AUTO TRAIL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL
The 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL is a family car with a 2198cc diesel engine. 134 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 33,930 miles at 12 years old, FORD AUTO TRAIL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL Fuel Costs
The 2198cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD AUTO TRAIL Reliability Trend
Newer FORD AUTO TRAILs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL
At 12 years old, the FORD AUTO TRAIL is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2012 FORD AUTO TRAIL
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-5%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (-4%) from 98,183 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (+1%) from 71,326 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (-7%) from 59,048 tests