Experiencing a brake pedal that feels too low or brakes that engage too sharply? Does your 2012 Ford engine idle roughly, almost stalling? These could be signs of a brake booster issue. For owners of 2010-2013 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX models, there’s important warranty information you need to know, especially concerning potential coverage related to defects that might also be flagged through your OBD2 system.
Ford issued a Customer Satisfaction Program, 13N02, which extends warranty coverage for brake booster problems in specific 2010 to 2013 Edge and MKX vehicles. This program recognizes a potential issue within a certain production date range and provides a one-time free replacement of the brake booster if it fails within 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the original warranty start date, whichever comes first.
How to Check if Your 2012 Ford is Covered
To determine if your 2012 Ford Edge or MKX qualifies for this extended warranty program, the easiest method is to use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Visit the official Ford ETIS website and enter your VIN. After searching, look for “Customer Satisfaction Program 13N102 Brake Booster Warranty Extension” in the “Outstanding Field Service Actions” section. If it’s listed, your vehicle may be eligible for a no-cost brake booster replacement at a Ford dealership.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Booster and What to Do
A failing brake booster can present several symptoms, including:
- Low Brake Pedal: The brake pedal might feel closer to the floor than usual.
- Hard Braking: Brakes may feel overly sensitive, causing abrupt and harsh stops with minimal pedal pressure.
- Rough Idle or Stalling: Engine idle may become unstable, and in severe cases, the engine might stall, especially when braking.
- Hissing Noise: You might hear a hissing sound when applying the brakes, indicating a vacuum leak in the booster.
If you notice these symptoms in your 2012 Ford, and especially if the Ford ETIS website indicates your vehicle is part of Program 13N102, contact your local Ford dealer immediately. Schedule an appointment to have your brake booster inspected. If eligible under the program, the replacement will be performed free of charge.
Driving with a Faulty Brake Booster: Exercise Caution
If your brake booster is failing, driving can become risky. As one owner of a 2012 MKX with a similar issue noted, the vehicle became “borderline unsafe to drive.” If you must drive to the dealership, do so with extreme caution, especially if the braking issues are severe.
Real-World Experience
Many owners have successfully had their brake boosters replaced under this extended warranty program. One owner reported a free replacement on their MKX with nearly 90,000 miles, highlighting the value of checking your VIN and taking advantage of this program if eligible.
Conclusion
If you own a 2012 Ford Edge or MKX and are experiencing brake issues, investigating the Customer Satisfaction Program 13N102 Brake Booster Warranty Extension is crucial. While OBD2 systems might not directly flag a brake booster failure specifically, the symptoms related to vacuum leaks or engine performance could potentially trigger OBD2 codes indirectly. Checking your VIN on the Ford ETIS website is the first step to determine if your vehicle is covered, potentially saving you significant repair costs and ensuring your 2012 Ford’s braking system is safe and reliable.
