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2014 Ford Explorer

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Explorer years

Owner complaints for the 2014 Ford Explorer are substantially higher than the model-year median of 609.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

1,021 reports with mileage · 654 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Steering. Review the 496 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Structure. Review the 276 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 196 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

32 crash reports6 fire reports29 injury reports

Steering complaints

496 reports
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29,000 miles · Jul 25, 2017
Steering

STEERING GEAR BOX WENT OUT OF MY VEHICLE WITH ONLY 29,000 MILES ON IT, HAD TO REPLACE THE WHOLE GEAR. I ONLY DRIVE 600 MILES OR LESS A MONTH I SPLIT MY TIME BETWEEN 2 VEHICLES. JUST BOUGHT A FEW MONTHS BEFORE THIS HAPPENED

NHTSA ODI #11010460

68,000 miles · Jun 22, 2017
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering

ON 19 JUNE, 2017 I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER ON I-95 SOUTH, I INITIALLY HEARD A SINGLE POP COME FROM THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE, I THOUGHT I HAD HIT SOMETHING IN THE ROAD, BUT NOTHING WAS VISIBLE IN THE ROAD, SO I CONTINUED TO DRIVE. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE WITH NO PROBLEMS. ON 20 JUNE, I WAS DRIVING AGAIN ON I-95 NORTH BOUND…

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ON 19 JUNE, 2017 I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER ON I-95 SOUTH, I INITIALLY HEARD A SINGLE POP COME FROM THE FRONT OF MY VEHICLE, I THOUGHT I HAD HIT SOMETHING IN THE ROAD, BUT NOTHING WAS VISIBLE IN THE ROAD, SO I CONTINUED TO DRIVE. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE WITH NO PROBLEMS. ON 20 JUNE, I WAS DRIVING AGAIN ON I-95 NORTH BOUND AND MY STEERING SYSTEM BEGAN TO MALFUNCTION WITH A LITTLE TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING, THE VEHICLE STILL EASILY TURNED LEFT AND RIGHT. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH NO PROBLEMS, SUDDENLY A WARNING FLASHED AND SHOWED A STABILITY WARNING AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE STEERING LOCKED UP AND I COULD NOT CONTROL MY VEHICLE AT ALL. I WAS NEARLY KILLED ALONG WITH SIX MEMBERS OF MY FAMILY WHEN MY VEHICLE STEERING MALFUNCTIONED (FROZE/LOCKED) AND TWO TRACTOR TRAILERS SWERVED TO KEEP FROM HITTING MY VEHICLE. I COULD NO LONGER CONTROL MY VEHICLE STEERING. MY VEHICLE HAS 68,000 MILES AND HAS BEEN REGULARLY MAINTAINED WITH NO KNOWN ISSUES.

NHTSA ODI #11000742

23,000 miles · Jun 22, 2017
SteeringSuspensionUnknown Or Other

SINCE I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NEW IN JULY 2014, I HAVE EXPERIENCED A SULPHUR LIKE SMELL IN THE CABIN AREA OF THE VEHICLE WHEN I ACCELERATE. THE ODOR IS STRONG ENOUGH TO MAKE YOU FEEL NAUSEOUS AND LIGHT HEADED. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS. ON ONE VISIT THEY CLAIMED…

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SINCE I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE NEW IN JULY 2014, I HAVE EXPERIENCED A SULPHUR LIKE SMELL IN THE CABIN AREA OF THE VEHICLE WHEN I ACCELERATE. THE ODOR IS STRONG ENOUGH TO MAKE YOU FEEL NAUSEOUS AND LIGHT HEADED. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS. ON ONE VISIT THEY CLAIMED THEY HAD INSTALLED ADDITIONAL VENTS TO ELIMINATE THE FUMES. THE SECOND TIME, THE EXHAUST WAS REPORTEDLY REPLACED. NEITHER REPAIR CREATED ANY IMPROVEMENT IN REGARD TO THE SMELL. ADDITIONALLY, I HAVE EXPERIENCED ISSUES WITH THE FRONT SUSPENSION/STEERING AREA. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE(S). THE VEHICLE HAS A LOUD POPPING SOUND THAT EMANATES FROM THE RIGHT FRONT AXLE AREA WHEN MAKING A LOW SPEED TURN. THE FIRST REPAIR WAS REPORTEDLY A LOOSE "BOOT COVER". THE SECOND REPAIR CONSISTED OF THE INSTALLATION OF A "SHIM" TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. NEITHER FIX TOOK CARE OF THE ISSUE LONG TERM.

NHTSA ODI #11000598

59,000 miles · Jun 15, 2017
Steering

WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, IN A TURN, THE STEERING ASSIST HAD A FAULT. A MESSAGE SHOWED ON THE SCREEN STATING THAT THERE WAS A STEERING ASSIST FAULT. AFTER RESTARTING THE VEHICLE SEVERAL TIMES, THE ISSUE DID NOT GO AWAY. STEERING THE VEHICLE FELT LIKE THE STEERING WHEEL WAS FIGHTING AGAINST ME (RATHER THAN SIMPLY A POWER S…

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WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, IN A TURN, THE STEERING ASSIST HAD A FAULT. A MESSAGE SHOWED ON THE SCREEN STATING THAT THERE WAS A STEERING ASSIST FAULT. AFTER RESTARTING THE VEHICLE SEVERAL TIMES, THE ISSUE DID NOT GO AWAY. STEERING THE VEHICLE FELT LIKE THE STEERING WHEEL WAS FIGHTING AGAINST ME (RATHER THAN SIMPLY A POWER STEERING LOSS). I WAS TOLD BY A DEALERSHIP MECHANIC THAT THE PROBLEM WAS UNKNOWN BUT SOMEWHERE IN THE STEERING COLUMN SO REPLACING THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN WOULD FIX IT.

NHTSA ODI #10995391

73,800 miles · May 16, 2017
Air BagsSteering

OUR 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT HAS SUDDENLY LOST ITS POWER STEERING MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND HAS A TENDENCY TO JERK THE WHEEL LEFT AND RIGHT WHEN DRIVING. THIS I'M TOLD IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND WILL COST APPROXIMATELY $1800 TO FIX. I BELIEVE THE THREE YEARS PRIOR TO MINE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND WERE RECALLED. THE EX…

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OUR 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT HAS SUDDENLY LOST ITS POWER STEERING MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND HAS A TENDENCY TO JERK THE WHEEL LEFT AND RIGHT WHEN DRIVING. THIS I'M TOLD IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND WILL COST APPROXIMATELY $1800 TO FIX. I BELIEVE THE THREE YEARS PRIOR TO MINE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND WERE RECALLED. THE EXPLORER HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS AND HAS 73K MILES. THE AIRBAG LIGHT ALSO CAME ON WHEN THE STEERING ISSUE STARTED HOWEVER THE FORD SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAID THAT IT WAS UNRELATED AND THAT WOULD BE ANOTHER EXPENSE AFTER THE STEERING WAS REPAIRED.

NHTSA ODI #10986043

42,988 miles · May 15, 2017
Steering

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SON WAS DRIVING 55 MPH, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY" AND "SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC" WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY (POWER STEERING RACK)…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SON WAS DRIVING 55 MPH, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY" AND "SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC" WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY (POWER STEERING RACK) NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: CAS-12267703. THE MANUFACTURER DECLINED TO ASSIST THE CONTACT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUTSIDE OF THE 36 MONTH OR 36,000 MILE WARRANTY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,988.....UPDATED 06/21/17 *BF UPDATED 09/15/2017*JS

NHTSA ODI #10985837

53,000 miles · May 9, 2017
Latches/locks/linkagesSteering

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO LOCK PROPERLY. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE DOOR LATCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE MANUFACTURER WHO REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE RECEIVE A SECOND DIAGNOSTIC, WHICH RENDERED THE SAME RESULTS. THE VEHICLE WAS …

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO LOCK PROPERLY. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE DOOR LATCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE MANUFACTURER WHO REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE RECEIVE A SECOND DIAGNOSTIC, WHICH RENDERED THE SAME RESULTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO LEAVE AN AUTO SHOP, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REACTIVATE THE POWER STEERING AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO HER HOME. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE DEALER OF THE FAILURE, BUT COULD NOT DRIVE TO THE DEALER DUE TO THE POWER STEERING FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: 12284176. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.

NHTSA ODI #10984517

33,000 miles · Apr 29, 2017
Steering

VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN APRIL 2014 WITH A LITTLE OVER 500 MILES. THE VEHICLE NOW HAS APPROXIMATELY 33,900 MILES. A COUPLE WEEKS AGO WE NOTICED A SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED EITHER WAY WHILE MOVING AND WHILE NOT MOVING. I CALLED ON 4-25 FOR APPOINTMENT ON 4-27. THE VEHICLE WAS LOOKED OVER AND I RECEIVED A …

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VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN APRIL 2014 WITH A LITTLE OVER 500 MILES. THE VEHICLE NOW HAS APPROXIMATELY 33,900 MILES. A COUPLE WEEKS AGO WE NOTICED A SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED EITHER WAY WHILE MOVING AND WHILE NOT MOVING. I CALLED ON 4-25 FOR APPOINTMENT ON 4-27. THE VEHICLE WAS LOOKED OVER AND I RECEIVED A CALL ON 4-28 STATING THE STEERING GEAR BOX WAS BAD AND NEED REPLACED. I WAS THEN TOLD MY WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED ON 4-17 AND THAT THEY WOULD NOT COVER THE BILL OF $1738. I DID RESEARCH AND THERE WERE SIMILAR ISSUES WITH THIS YEAR VEHICLE AS WELL AS RECALLS ON THIS SAME VEHICLE 2011-2013. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE FORD HAS NOT FIXED THE ISSUE AND SHOULD COVER THESE RIDICULOUS COSTS TO THOSE THAT HAVE HAD THEM. I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THESE TYPES OF THINGS ON SUCH A LOW MILEAGE VEHICLE. FORD WILL PROBABLY BE LOSING OUR CONTINUED BUSINESS.

NHTSA ODI #10981368

38,000 miles · Feb 25, 2017
SteeringSuspension

TAKATA RECALL CUANDO LO MANEJO SE MUEVE MUCHO ES DIFCIL DE CONTROLAR A 60 MILLAS PARESE UN BOTE 🚣 SE MUEVE DE LADO A LADO COMO SI PATINARA MAS EN EL FREEWAY ES MUY RIESGOSO

NHTSA ODI #10956953

43,000 miles · Feb 23, 2017
Steering

AFTER A KNOCK WAS DISCOVERED WHILE TURNING I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN TO FORD ASSUMING I WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THEY IDENTIFIED A CODE (NOT AVAILABLE) AND DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM TO BE WITH THE "STEERING GEAR BOX ASSEMBLY", SPECIFICALLY THE RACK AND PINION. AFTER RESEARCHING THE PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET I FOUND MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES OF SI…

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AFTER A KNOCK WAS DISCOVERED WHILE TURNING I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN TO FORD ASSUMING I WAS UNDER WARRANTY. THEY IDENTIFIED A CODE (NOT AVAILABLE) AND DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM TO BE WITH THE "STEERING GEAR BOX ASSEMBLY", SPECIFICALLY THE RACK AND PINION. AFTER RESEARCHING THE PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET I FOUND MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES OF SIMILAR MISHAPS, SOME RESULTING IN LOCK UP OF THE STEERING COMPONENT. FORD INFORMED ME THAT WE EXCEEDED THE MILEAGE PORTION OF THE WARRANTY BUT NOT THE YEARS (VEHICLE IS 2 1/2 YEARS OLD). THEY ALSO INFORMED ME THAT BECAUSE I WAS OUT OF WARRANTY DUE TO MILEAGE, THEY WOULDN'T COVER THE REPAIRS AND QUOTED $2200 IN REPAIRS. $1500 FOR PARTS AND THE REST FOR LABOR. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE DUE TO THE POTENTIAL TO LOCK UP THE STEERING RESULTING IN COLLISION. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE REPAIR AND CAN OBTAIN THE SAME PART NUMBER FOR APPROX. $650 AND LABOR AROUND $700. THERE ARE DOCUMENTED RECALLS ON FORD EXPLORERS UP TO 2013, BUT FOR SOME REASON 2014 IS NOT INCLUDED.

NHTSA ODI #10956527

Official recalls

6

24V031000 · Structure:body:roof And Pillars

Jan 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.

21V537000 · Suspension:rear

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.

20V675000 · Suspension:rear

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.

20V692000 · Power Train:axle Assembly:axle Shaft

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.

19V435000 · Suspension:rear

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.

16V245000 · Suspension:rear

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

4

PE23001 · 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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