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Just wondering what people think of these cars. I notice a lot of them driving around town. They were built 2008-12. Good in winter? Things to look out for? I notice lots rust above the rear wheels. Thanks.

I owned a 2009 model from 2009-2016. It was starting to rust around the rear wheels at the time I traded it in. It seems to be a common problem with them. Through its life with me I had several issues with fluid leaks (engine oil, transmission and transfer case). Definitely check underneath where it was parked for that. The wheels also were replaced under warranty as the chrome was peeling off. Also the rear defroster quit working. I think it shorted out as the back glass opens independently from the hatch and was leaking water as it was not sealed properly.  
 
That being said I did really like driving it. It was good in the winter and I did not use winter tires. Mine was 4wd with the 3.0 V6.  
 
Edited by mcws2004, 2021-03-14 16:48:34

I owned a 2012 brand new and it was a great car. Until sone chick tboned me after running a stop sign and it never ran right again.  
 
Bought a 2008 a few years back because I wanted to buy some thing outright with no payments. (I was sick of monthly payments). It's been an awesome solid car. The only work I've had to do is a sensor on one of the wheels broke, which confused the entire computer system . Otherwise my mechanic is pretty impressed with the engine and transmission. It has dings but appears to have sidestepped the reported rust issues on the doors.

Overall pretty robust little suvs, built tougher than the current stuff. The 2009+ has the 6 speed which is much improved over the older 4 speed auto. 2009s had some shift solenoid issues but should be taken care of by now or no longer around. Agee with checking for leaks on drivetrain for any used car.  
 
2009+ motors are a bit better, The 4 cylinder ford/Mazda 2.5 is bullet proof, 3.0 v6 duratech is also really good and can handle some light towing. Easy to fix and external water pump...looking at you 3.5/3.7 fords... AWD is also reliable. Typical maintenance on them, but no glaring faults so history of car essential. corrosion to body always a thing to watch at this age. At this age hopefully transmission oil change. Rust at Rear wheel wells, hatch, and running boards if they have them. Peeling emblems and wheels also a Ford thing in that era.  
 
I would have no issues owning one that’s been looked after, can usually find them for a good price, 1st gen sync/Bluetooth works too. Good luck!

Thanks for the input on these little suv's. I've always liked the "square" body style of them. Totally agree with you on the internal water pumps. Sometimes I think engineers need to be reminded that just because you can make something work doesn't mean you should.