2012 Ford Taurus Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2012 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2012 Ford Taurus has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $1,500 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 2008-2019 Ford Taurus 3.5L Duratec, the 3.5L Duratec V6 in later model Taurus vehicles develops cam phaser rattle on cold starts due to worn variable valve timing actuators and depleted oil control valve seals.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Check engine light
- Rough idle when cold
How to Fix
Confirm the noise is coming from the front timing cover area during a cold start, then scan for VCT-related DTCs such as P0011, P0012, P0021, or P0022 and verify oil level/condition and oil pressure first, since dirty or low oil can aggravate phaser noise. The proper repair is to replace the worn cam phasers and VCT/OCV solenoids, and on higher-mileage engines it is wise to install new timing chains, guides, tensioners, and related seals/gaskets because the front cover must be removed to access the components. After reassembly, perform an oil and filter change with the correct viscosity oil, clear codes, and verify quiet cold-start operation; typical repair cost is about $1,500-$3,000 depending on whether only phasers/solenoids are replaced or a full timing set service is done.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeVVT solenoid restores proper variable valve timing operation (Dorman Variable Valve Timing Solenoid)
- UpgradeFresh oil is critical for VVT system performance (Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Motor Oil)