NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Electronic Stability Control (esc) complaints
14 reportsClear category filter170,000 miles · Oct 4, 2024
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle suddenly lost power steering functionality. The traction control and the electronic stability control warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the co…
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The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle suddenly lost power steering functionality. The traction control and the electronic stability control warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the failure might be related to the power steering control module(PSCM); however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. No further information was provided. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 170,000.
NHTSA ODI #11618053
117,000 miles · May 17, 2024
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the "Service Steering Assist" and the traction stability warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact pulled over to the side of the roadway with difficulty and turned of…
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The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the "Service Steering Assist" and the traction stability warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact pulled over to the side of the roadway with difficulty and turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to regain power steering functionality. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering gears needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was recurring. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
NHTSA ODI #11589232
136,000 miles · Sep 1, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
TURNING AT A RED LIGHT MY POWER STEERING LOCKED UP WITH A WARNING ON THE SCREEN STATING STEERING ASSIT SERVICE REQUIRED. I TURN THE VEHICLE OFF AND BACK ON AND THE STEERING UNLOCKED. SINCE THE CAR IS MAKING A WHINING NOSE. I SEE MULTIPLE RECALLS FOR THIS MAKE AND MODEL FOR POWER STEERING ISSUES BUT MY VIN NUMBER ISNT LISTED.
NHTSA ODI #11252696
Mileage unknown · Jul 9, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
UNAVAILABLE CMARA , PROBLEMS WHIT BACK DOOR , ENGINE LIGHT TURNING ON
NHTSA ODI #11230600
73,000 miles · Jun 28, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE EPS, TRACTION CONTROL, AND VARIOUS OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO STRONGLY MANEUVER THE VEHICLE IN BOTH DIRECTIONS TO PREVENT A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS BARELY COASTED OFF THE HIGHWAY. WHEN THE VEH…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE EPS, TRACTION CONTROL, AND VARIOUS OTHER UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD TO STRONGLY MANEUVER THE VEHICLE IN BOTH DIRECTIONS TO PREVENT A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS BARELY COASTED OFF THE HIGHWAY. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHUT OFF AND RESTARTED, THE VARIOUS WARNING INDICATORS STILL FLASHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V286000 (STEERING) AND 14E001000 (STEERING); ALTHOUGH, THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME FAILURE. APPLE FORD SHAKOPEE (1624 WESTON CT, SHAKOPEE, MN 55379, (952) 445-2420) WAS CONTACTED AND INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NEED TO BE SCHEDULED FOR AN APPOINTMENT THE FOLLOWING MONDAY OR TUESDAY FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,000. *BF CONSUMER STATED THE RACK AND PINION STEERING ASSIST WAS REPLACED. 'PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB
NHTSA ODI #11223139
137,000 miles · Apr 23, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringVehicle Speed Control
DRIVING ON FREEWAY 70 MPH ALERT LEFT SIDE OF DASH BRIGHT RED STEERING SYSTEM FAILURE STOP CAR SAFELY . LOSS OF POWER TO STEER THE VEHICLE . NO CONTROL , TRACTION . ANOTHER ALERT IN YELLOW SYSTEM FAILURE SERVICE ASAP . ALERT RED AGAIN STEERING SYSTEM FAILURE STOP CARE SAFELY . UNABLE TO STEER THE VEHICLE. TURNED CAR OFF TRIED…
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DRIVING ON FREEWAY 70 MPH ALERT LEFT SIDE OF DASH BRIGHT RED STEERING SYSTEM FAILURE STOP CAR SAFELY . LOSS OF POWER TO STEER THE VEHICLE . NO CONTROL , TRACTION . ANOTHER ALERT IN YELLOW SYSTEM FAILURE SERVICE ASAP . ALERT RED AGAIN STEERING SYSTEM FAILURE STOP CARE SAFELY . UNABLE TO STEER THE VEHICLE. TURNED CAR OFF TRIED TO RESET UNABLE NO STEERING MECHANISM . HAD TO HAVE CAR TOWED UNABLE TO DRIVE. STEERING WHEEL SEEMED LOCKED AND NOT ABLE TO TURN RIGHT OR LEFT. CODE FROM DEALERS SAID 3500 BUCKS TO FIX STEERING MECHANISM FAILURE. NO WAY TO OVERRIDE OR RE PROGRAM . CAR FAILED WHILE DRIVING . SCARY
NHTSA ODI #11203223
75,000 miles · Feb 7, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
STARTED VEHICLE TO GO TO WORK AND HAD NO POWER STEERING. POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED BOX POPPED UP. TURNED VEHICLE OFF AND ON, STILL FAULTED SO I TRIED A FEW MORE TIMES. PUT VEHICLE IN REVERSE, BACKED UP, THEN WENT FORWARD. LOST STABILATRAC, WENT INTO MENU AND BOX WAS UNCHECKED AND I WAS UNABLE TO SELECT IT. ALS…
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STARTED VEHICLE TO GO TO WORK AND HAD NO POWER STEERING. POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED BOX POPPED UP. TURNED VEHICLE OFF AND ON, STILL FAULTED SO I TRIED A FEW MORE TIMES. PUT VEHICLE IN REVERSE, BACKED UP, THEN WENT FORWARD. LOST STABILATRAC, WENT INTO MENU AND BOX WAS UNCHECKED AND I WAS UNABLE TO SELECT IT. ALSO AT THE SAME TIME A COLLISION WARNING FAULT APPEARED. LOOKED DOWN AT THE TERRAIN MANAGEMENT, THERE WERE NO LIGHTS ILLUMINATED SO I TURNED IT. INSTANT TERRAIN MANAGEMENT FAULT APPEARED. SO NOW I HAVE 4 BOX FAULTS ON THE LEFT DISPLAY AND TWO YELLOW STABILATRAC LIGHTS ON TO THE RIGHT, ONE SAYS OFF WITH THE SYMBOL AND THE OTHER JUST THE SYMBOL. TRIED UNHOOKING BATTERY, NO LUCK. CALLED FORD DEALERSHIP, MADE AN APPOINTMENT FOR 2 DAYS LATER, THE EARLIEST. STARTED VEHICLE UP NEXT DAY, NOTHING CLEARED. CALLED TOW COMPANY AND TOLD THEM TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND IT CAN SIT THERE. TALKED TO SERVICE MANAGER AND SOUNDS LIKE THEY ALREADY HAD AN IDEA I WAS GOING TO BE GETTING A NEW STEERING RACK. I'M JUST GLAD I WASNT DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS LIKE A LOT OF THE OTHER POSTS AND HOW ARE A FEW YEARS ON RECALL WHEN IT SEEMS TO BE ALL YEARS FROM 2011 ON UP. VEHICLE IS WAITING FOR ANOTHER DAY TO GET INTO THE MECHANICS BAY EVEN THOUGH I ALREADY KNOW IT WILL BE A 1500 TO 2500 DOLLAR REPAIR. VEHICLE HAS 76K MILES. DONT GET ME STARTED ON THE KEY FOB. OH AND IT WAS -38 DEGREES WITH WINCHILL.
NHTSA ODI #11174907
73,000 miles · Dec 14, 2018
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER ALONG THE FREEWAY DOING ABOUT 70 MPH AND STARTED SMELLING AN ODOR WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED VIOLENTLY SHAKING AND A BELL STATED BEEPING. A MESSAGE ON THE LEFT BLINKED ON STEERING FAILED PARK SAFELY AND STEERING TRACTION LIGHTS CAME ON . THE CAR WAS HARD TO STEER. I HAD TO…
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I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER ALONG THE FREEWAY DOING ABOUT 70 MPH AND STARTED SMELLING AN ODOR WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED VIOLENTLY SHAKING AND A BELL STATED BEEPING. A MESSAGE ON THE LEFT BLINKED ON STEERING FAILED PARK SAFELY AND STEERING TRACTION LIGHTS CAME ON . THE CAR WAS HARD TO STEER. I HAD TO FIND A PLACE TO PULL OVER QUICKLY. I MANAGED TO GET THE CAR OFF THE FREEWAY. WE SAT THERE TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT HAPPEN AND IF WE COULD POSSIBLY DRIVE IT HOME. BUT OF COURSE WE COULDN'T AS THE STEERING WHEEL WAS COMPLETELY LOCKED. NOTHING WE COULD DO BUT CALL A WRECKER TO TOW THE CAR HOME. IF I HAD BEEN DRIVING IN THE FAR LEFT LANE, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN IN A DANGEROUS POSITION TO GET HIT AS THE CAR LOST POWER ALL OF A SUDDEN. LAST NIGHT WHILE CHECKING FOR RECALL INFORMATION, I FOUND THIS WEB SITE AND LEARNED THAT ALMOST A HUNDRED OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM BUT COULD NOT FIND A RECALL NUMBER. I GOING TO VENTURE A GUESS THAT THERE HAS NOT BEEN ENOUGH SERIOUS INJURIES OR DEATHS YET. WE WERE QUOTED OVER $1800 TO REPAIR OUR CAR. WE CANNOT AFFORD THIS. SOMEONE NEEDS TO SAY ENOUGH, ALL THESE SAME PROBLEMS ON THE SAME CAR HAS TO BE A MANUFACTURER'S FAILURE. THE CONSUMERS NEED HELP NOW. IS ANYONE LISTENING TO US?
NHTSA ODI #11161418
25,000 miles · Jul 15, 2018
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
THE "DRIVER DOOR AJAR' WARNING LIGHT STAYS ON WHEN ENTERING OR EXITING THE VEHICLE EVEN WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED. I HAVE TO SLAM IT SEVERAL TIME TO GET THE LIGHT TO GO OFF.
NHTSA ODI #11111415
61,000 miles · May 16, 2018
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
WHILE DRIVING THE TRACTION CONTROL TURNED OFF, WHICH CAUSED THE ELECTRONIC STEERING TO TURN OFF. THE CAR JERKED TO THE LEFT SIDE (ALMOST HITTING A BOX TRUCK). I HAD TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL WITH ALL MY STRENGTH TO GET THE CAR TO STEER CORRECTLY. TOOK THE CAR TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THE ELECTRONIC STEERING GEAR NEEDED TO BE …
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WHILE DRIVING THE TRACTION CONTROL TURNED OFF, WHICH CAUSED THE ELECTRONIC STEERING TO TURN OFF. THE CAR JERKED TO THE LEFT SIDE (ALMOST HITTING A BOX TRUCK). I HAD TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL WITH ALL MY STRENGTH TO GET THE CAR TO STEER CORRECTLY. TOOK THE CAR TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THE ELECTRONIC STEERING GEAR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
NHTSA ODI #11096353
Official recalls
6Jan 19, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
Jul 15, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Exposure to road salt can cause the cross-axis ball joint to corrode and seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle, and replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall numbers 16V-245, 19V-435, and 20V-675. Certain vehicles previously repaired will need to return for the new remedy. An interim notification letter notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2022. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S32.
Mar 12, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin that were previously repaired under a prior recall numbers 16V-245 or 19V-435. The outboard section of a rear suspension toe link may fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle attached to the rear suspension toe link and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S62.
Nov 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive. The support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may fail.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8, 2020. A second letter will be mailed when parts become available in January 2021. The recall began February 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S63.
Jun 10, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S17.
Apr 26, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured January 17, 2014 to May 31, 2014. The affected vehicles may have improperly welded rear suspension toe links that may fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fracture of the rear suspension toe link may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S18.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4PE23001 · Windshield Trim Molding Item Detachment
Opened Jan 27, 2023 · Closed Feb 8, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Structure:body:roof And Pillars
On January 27, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-001 to investigate allegations of A-pillar trim panel detachment on model year (MY) 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles. At the time of opening, the office had received 164 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting this failure. ODI has received 671 VOQs regarding this failure, including 1 alleged crash and 2 alleged injuries. Some consumers have reported that the failure occurred while they were driving at highway speeds, with the detached trim panel entering the path of travel of the vehicle behind them, requiring the driver of the following vehicle to take evasive action. It is noteworthy that motorists who experience this type of road hazard are less likely to accurately identify the subject vehicle the item detached from and report the event to the NHTSA. In its April 17, 2023 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 175 consumer complaints (including field reports) and 14,162 warranty claims related to A-pillar trim panel detachment. Ford relayed that the subject vehicles utilize a plastic A-pillar bracket, which is bolted to the vehicle structure during assembly. The A-pillar trim panel is attached to the bracket utilizing 7 plastic clips. Contributory factors which have been identified by Ford as leading to the subject defect include incomplete installation at the assembly plant, inadequate part stack up, damage to fasteners during installation, and failure to follow proper repair procedure during windshield replacements or other services. On January 19, 2024, Ford filed safety recall 24V-031 for MY 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles to address the subject defect. In the Part 573 Safety Recall Report, Ford identified that a detached A-pillar trim panel can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash. The recall remedy includes an inspection of the existing A-pillar trim panel and, if necessary, the replacement of the component. The remedy A-pillar trim panels will be installed with an additional adhesive for robustness and utilize an inspection procedure to ensure full engagement of all the retention clips during installation. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
EA17002 · Exhaust Odor In Passenger Cab
Opened Jul 27, 2017 · Closed Jan 17, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe; Structure:body
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
Structure:body
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the evolution of Ford service bulletins intended to reduce the level of exhaust odors and carbon monoxide (CO) entering the occupant compartment was examined and independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the final Field Service Actions (FSA) for both consumer and police vehicles were conducted. As part of the investigation, the agency also examined the effects of cracked exhaust mani-cats on the measured CO levels in the vehicles and tested the FSA repairs to ensure they did not adversely impact occupant compartment CO levels due to cracked mani-cats.The investigation identified upfitting issues for Police Interceptor vehicles. Upfitting (sirens, lights, cages, auxiliary power, etc.) is typically performed by governmental fleet operations, independent repair facilities, or local Ford dealers after the sale of the new vehicle. Sealing issues caused by upfitting were responsible for the highest measured carbon monoxide levels in tested vehicles. The police FSA instructs how to inspect the quality of the vehicle upfits and how to properly seal any leaks caused by these upfits, at no cost to the police agency. Similarly, the highest CO levels measured in consumer vehicles were usually traced to sealing issues caused by rear crash damage where the repairs did not ensure sealing integrity. The most recent Ford FSA procedure for both the police (17B25) and consumer vehicles (17N03) includes an HVAC reprogramming operation. Tests by Ford and NHTSA have demonstrated a substantial reduction of CO levels due solely to the HVAC reprogramming. Other FSA repairs also demonstrated measurable contributions to CO level reductions during controlled tests.Throughout the investigation, vehicles accurately measured with higher levels of carbon monoxide were almost always affected by upfitter alterations, damage, or other causes compromising rear passenger cabin seals.NHTSA received thousands of reports alleging odors which triggered a variety of physiological responses, predominately nausea, headaches, and lightheadedness. NHTSA focused the investigation on accurately measuring vehicle CO levels, and accurately measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) levels from properly administered blood tests. Using rigorous test methods to produce exhaust gas intrusion in vehicles with a properly performed FSA, occupant compartment CO levels remained below current environmental limits for CO in any environment (EPA ambient air quality standards). Furthermore, even without FSA repairs, no vehicles unaffected by upfitter issues or prior crash damage were identified with CO levels that exceed accepted occupational CO exposure levels. This investigation finds that the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer vehicles when accurately measured produce occupant compartment CO levels which fall below current accepted health standards, and could not identify COHB levels for vehicle drivers or other occupants, which exceeded thresholds for acute physiological effects. Therefore, the agency has not identified a defect that represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.This inve
PE16008 · Ford Explorer Exhaust Odor
Opened Jul 1, 2016 · Closed Sep 12, 2017
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
EA15005 · Front Brake Hose Failure
Opened Sep 28, 2015 · Closed Nov 2, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
On April 29, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE15-017 to investigate a report alleging incidents of front brake hose failure in model year (MY) 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles used by the Sacramento Police Department in its pursuit driving training program (VOQ 10705832).On September 28, 2015, ODI upgraded the investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA15-005) to assess maximum front caliper crimp temperatures under various test conditions, test hose assemblies removed from police interceptor service for any signs of thermal degradation, and further assess field data for evidence of a defect trend related to the alleged defect.The alleged defect results from exposure to extremely high heat at the caliper-side hose crimp. NHTSA?s vehicle testing suggests that the conditions necessary to produce the critical temperatures in the subject components result from drive-soak intervals that can occur during the Sacramento training program.NHTSA's testing of hose assemblies returned from police interceptor service did not identify any evidence of thermal degradation.NHTSA has not confirmed any incidents of caliper crimp failures due to overheating in vehicles not subjected to the Sacramento training course driving.The low number of hose assembly failure reports and the absence of any verified incidents of heat related front brake hose crimp failures since 2015 suggests that the Sacramento PD incidents resulted from conditions unique to the training program.A safety related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of Agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The Agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For additional information, see the Closing Report in the document file for EA15-005 on www.nhtsa.gov.
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