FORD EXPLORER (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 38 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
100%
Total Tests (2024)
38
Avg Mileage
84,961 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 2012 FORD EXPLORER reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 18 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 12 years old, 100% of FORD EXPLORERs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 38 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 84,961 miles.
How does the 2012 FORD EXPLORER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 FORD EXPLORER has 84,961 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a FORD EXPLORER?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2012 sits between the two at 100%.
How much does a 2012 FORD EXPLORER 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 EXPLORER by Year
Checking a specific FORD EXPLORER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 FORD EXPLORER
The 2012 FORD EXPLORER is a performance with a 3700cc petrol engine. 38 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 1% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 84,961 miles at 12 years old, FORD EXPLORER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 FORD EXPLORER Fuel Costs
The 3700cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 FORD EXPLORER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 100% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
FORD EXPLORER Reliability Trend
Newer FORD EXPLORERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 FORD EXPLORER
At 12 years old, the FORD EXPLORER 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2005 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. Note: with only 38 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2012 FORD EXPLORER
The FORD EXPLORER is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES E (2010) 80% pass rate (-20%) from 25,610 tests
- PORSCHE CAYENNE (2014) 91% pass rate (-9%) from 5,626 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (2014) 96% pass rate (-4%) from 4,806 tests
- BENTLEY CONTINENTAL (2014) 97% pass rate (-3%) from 3,031 tests