NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports85,000 miles · Mar 19, 2021
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A LOUD GRINDING SOUND. THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS COASTED ONTO THE ROAD SHOULDER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TRY-COUNTY FORD INC (1348 FOUR LOCUST HWY, DIRECTION KEYSVILLE, VA 23947, (434) 7…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A LOUD GRINDING SOUND. THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS COASTED ONTO THE ROAD SHOULDER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TRY-COUNTY FORD INC (1348 FOUR LOCUST HWY, DIRECTION KEYSVILLE, VA 23947, (434) 736-8444) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS AN INTERNAL TRANSMISSION FAILURE AND THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN 20V692000 (POWER TRAIN). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
NHTSA ODI #11403925
80,000 miles · Mar 19, 2021
Steering
I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER AND NOTICED A SMALL GRINDING NOISE WHEN I WOULD BE PARKED OR WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. IT WAS LIKE THIS FOR A FEW DAYS AND NOW WHEN DRIVING HOME IT LOCKED COMPLETELY ON ME AND I LOST STEERING ABILITY AND HAD TO FORCEFULLY PARK IT AND HAD A TOW TRUCK TAKE IT HOME. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSU…
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I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER AND NOTICED A SMALL GRINDING NOISE WHEN I WOULD BE PARKED OR WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. IT WAS LIKE THIS FOR A FEW DAYS AND NOW WHEN DRIVING HOME IT LOCKED COMPLETELY ON ME AND I LOST STEERING ABILITY AND HAD TO FORCEFULLY PARK IT AND HAD A TOW TRUCK TAKE IT HOME. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH FORD EXPLORER AND THE STEERING RACK. I HAVE A MECHANIC COMING OUT TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE AND WE NEED A RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11403814
86,000 miles · Mar 15, 2021
Steering
MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER, WHICH ONLY HAS 83,000/MILES, STARTED EXPERIENCING TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING. IN CONDUCTING RESEARCH, THESE SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH RESULTS IN A $1,700.00-TO-$2,000.00 REPAIR BILL. THE SECOND CONCERN IS THE STEERING FAILURE NOTED BY SOME COMPLAINTS, WHICH ENDANGERS EVERYONE …
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MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER, WHICH ONLY HAS 83,000/MILES, STARTED EXPERIENCING TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING. IN CONDUCTING RESEARCH, THESE SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH RESULTS IN A $1,700.00-TO-$2,000.00 REPAIR BILL. THE SECOND CONCERN IS THE STEERING FAILURE NOTED BY SOME COMPLAINTS, WHICH ENDANGERS EVERYONE WITHIN THE VICINITY TIME THE POINT OF FAILURE. IF IT IS SO COMMON, AND COULD RESULT IN A SERIOUS INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, WHY IS THIS NOT BEING RECALLED?
NHTSA ODI #11403024
85,000 miles · Mar 8, 2021
Power Train
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND I HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. I SLOWED DOWN SOME BUT THEN WHEN I TRIED TO RE APPLY GAS IT JUST REVVED UP AND WOULD NOT GO FORWARD MORE. I WAS ALMOST IN AN ACCIDENT WITH PEOPLE BEHIND ME. I WAS ABLE TO ROLL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND HEARD THE GRINDING AGAIN. I TURNED T…
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I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND I HEARD A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. I SLOWED DOWN SOME BUT THEN WHEN I TRIED TO RE APPLY GAS IT JUST REVVED UP AND WOULD NOT GO FORWARD MORE. I WAS ALMOST IN AN ACCIDENT WITH PEOPLE BEHIND ME. I WAS ABLE TO ROLL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND HEARD THE GRINDING AGAIN. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND CALLED MY HUSBAND. WHEN I RESTARTED THE CAR IT WOULD NOT GO FORWARD, BACKWARD OR ANYTHING. IT IS A LINK SHAFT BRACKET FAILURE THAT THERE IS ALREADY A RECALL IN PLACE FOR BUT MY TRUCK WAS BUILT 4 MONTHS BEFORE THE DATE THE RECALL BEGINS FOR. WE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED HOME AND IT JUST ROLLED OFF THE TOW TRUCK LIKE IT WAS IN NEUTRAL WHEN IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE IN PARK.
NHTSA ODI #11399752
120,000 miles · Mar 6, 2021
Steering
THIS OCCURRED FIRST IN OUR DRIVEWAY, FIRST STARTUP IN THE MORNING STEERING WHEEL WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. I JERKED IT LEFT AND RIGHT A FEW TIMES AND IT EVENTUALLY TURNED AS IT SHOULD. NO ABNORMAL LIGHTS ON DASH TO INDICATE ANY PROBLEMS. THIS GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE EACH MORNING UNTIL FREEZING UP COMPLETELY,EVEN WITH THE FRONT WHE…
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THIS OCCURRED FIRST IN OUR DRIVEWAY, FIRST STARTUP IN THE MORNING STEERING WHEEL WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. I JERKED IT LEFT AND RIGHT A FEW TIMES AND IT EVENTUALLY TURNED AS IT SHOULD. NO ABNORMAL LIGHTS ON DASH TO INDICATE ANY PROBLEMS. THIS GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE EACH MORNING UNTIL FREEZING UP COMPLETELY,EVEN WITH THE FRONT WHEELS OFF THE GROUND STEERING WILL NOT BUDGE. I AM TOLD BY THE FORD DEALER HERE THAT THIS VEHICLE IS NOT ON RECALL LIST.
NHTSA ODI #11399474
60,000 miles · Mar 6, 2021
Steering
ABOUT A YEAR AEGO MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHENEVER I TURNED THE WHEEL BOTH PARKED OR MOVING. SINCE THEN IT HAS PROGRESSED INTO A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE WHEEL IS STICKING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I HAVE TO FORCE IT TO MOVE AT TIMES. IT DOES NOT RETURN FREELY ANYMORE ON IT"S OWN TO A STRAIGHT FORWARD POS…
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ABOUT A YEAR AEGO MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHENEVER I TURNED THE WHEEL BOTH PARKED OR MOVING. SINCE THEN IT HAS PROGRESSED INTO A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE WHEEL IS STICKING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I HAVE TO FORCE IT TO MOVE AT TIMES. IT DOES NOT RETURN FREELY ANYMORE ON IT"S OWN TO A STRAIGHT FORWARD POSITION. AFTER HAVING THE CAR IN AT CHAPMAN FORD, EGG HARBOR NJ, THEY TOLD ME IT"S DANGERIOUS AND I COULD LOOSE MY STEERING ENTIRELY WHILE DRIVING AND TO HAVE THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED. I CAN SEE THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL AND THERE WAS A SIMILIAR RECALL A FEW YEARS PRIOR FOR A SIMILAR PROBLEM. I DON"T THINK THE PROPER IMPROVEMENTS TO THE RACK AND PINION WHERE EVER APPLIED IN LATER MODELS AND THERE SHOULD BE ANOTHER RECALL OR THE PRIOR RECALL SHOULD BE EXTENDED. THANK YOU
NHTSA ODI #11399460
80,000 miles · Mar 1, 2021
Seat Belts
WE HAVE A 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND THE SEATBELT IS IN A RETRACTED POSITION AND IS STUCK. WE HAD IT INTO FORD AND THEY WERE ABLE TO GET IT TEMPORARILY UNSTUCK BUT IT IS STUCK AGAIN. THEY PRICED THE PART AND LABOR AND IT WILL BE $415 TO REPLACE. WE ARE OVER THEIR SAFETY WARRANTY FOR MILEAGE. THEY INSTRUCTED US TO REACH OUT…
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WE HAVE A 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND THE SEATBELT IS IN A RETRACTED POSITION AND IS STUCK. WE HAD IT INTO FORD AND THEY WERE ABLE TO GET IT TEMPORARILY UNSTUCK BUT IT IS STUCK AGAIN. THEY PRICED THE PART AND LABOR AND IT WILL BE $415 TO REPLACE. WE ARE OVER THEIR SAFETY WARRANTY FOR MILEAGE. THEY INSTRUCTED US TO REACH OUT TO YOU TO HELP WITH ESCALATING THE SITUATION TO FORD. WE CANNOT USE THAT SAFETY BELT AT ALL IN ITS CURRENT CONDITION. WE HAVE ALWAYS HAD A CARSEAT WITH LATCHES IN THAT POSITION SO SINCE WE HAVE OWNED IT THE SEATBELT HAS BEEN USED MINIMALLY. IF YOU COULD ESCALATE THIS SITUATION TO FORD FOR A RESOLUTION WE WOULD APPRECIATE IT. THANK YOU!
NHTSA ODI #11398565
130,000 miles · Feb 28, 2021
Air Bags
AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON WHICH DISABLES ALL AIRBAGS IN THE VEHICLE, MAKING AN UNSAFE VEHICLE OPERATIONS ISSUE. UPON DIAGNOSES IT APPEARS FORD MOCO IS AWARE OF A FAULTY ISSUE UNDER THE SECOND ROW SEATS FOR THE OPTIONAL SEATBELT AIRBAGS, AS ISSUED WITH FORD TSB 16-0001, TO DATE FORD HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL TO SERVICE THE KNOW ISSUE. …
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AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON WHICH DISABLES ALL AIRBAGS IN THE VEHICLE, MAKING AN UNSAFE VEHICLE OPERATIONS ISSUE. UPON DIAGNOSES IT APPEARS FORD MOCO IS AWARE OF A FAULTY ISSUE UNDER THE SECOND ROW SEATS FOR THE OPTIONAL SEATBELT AIRBAGS, AS ISSUED WITH FORD TSB 16-0001, TO DATE FORD HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL TO SERVICE THE KNOW ISSUE. THE AVERAGE REPAIRS ARE COSTING CONSUMERS AROUND $1,000 +/- FOR THE REPAIRS, THUS TOO MANY CONSUMERS ARE BYPASSING THE REPAIRS DUE TO THE HIGHER COSTS AND THUS DRIVING 'NEWER/MODERN' VEHICLES WITHOUT STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT ACTIVE.
NHTSA ODI #11398307
120,000 miles · Feb 17, 2021
Steering
WHILE DRIVING EITHER ON THE HIGHWAY OR ON CITY STREETS WHEN TURNING A CORNER OR A CURVE THE STEERING CATCHES AND MAKES ME SWERVE THE CAR. MY MECHANIC SAYS THE ELECTRONIC STEERING WENT OUT SO THE GEARS ARE CATCHING AND I'M LUCKY I DIDN'T CRASH THE CAR!
NHTSA ODI #11396633
117,550 miles · Feb 16, 2021
Suspension
THERE WAS A RECALL 19S17 ON THE VEHICLE. I TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR THIS 12-16-2019. THEY REPLACED THE TOE LINKS (PART DB5Z-5A972-J) AND REPORTED THAT THE LEFT SIDE TOE LINK BALL JOINT WAS LOOSE AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THEY WOULD HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A TIME TO DO THAT. BECAUSE THE JOINT WAS LOOSE, THEY DID NOT PERFORM THE ALIGNM…
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THERE WAS A RECALL 19S17 ON THE VEHICLE. I TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR THIS 12-16-2019. THEY REPLACED THE TOE LINKS (PART DB5Z-5A972-J) AND REPORTED THAT THE LEFT SIDE TOE LINK BALL JOINT WAS LOOSE AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THEY WOULD HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A TIME TO DO THAT. BECAUSE THE JOINT WAS LOOSE, THEY DID NOT PERFORM THE ALIGNMENT THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE DONE AFTER TOE LINK REPLACEMENT. DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON SNOW COVERED ROADS AFTERWARDS REVEALED THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION WAS OUT OF ALIGNMENT BECAUSE OF VERY POOR HANDLING/WANDER. THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE THAT PROBLEM BEFORE THE SERVICING. THE DEALER SHOULD HAVE DONE A SIMPLE ALIGNMENT THAT WOULD HAVE PUT THE ALIGNMENT CLOSE ENOUGH INSTEAD OF SENDING THE VEHICLE OUT IN AN UNSAFE CONDITION. BECAUSE OF THE COST I WAS QUOTED, I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT AUTO REPAIR SHOP FOR THE JOINT REPLACEMENT, WHERE IT WAS DONE MUCH CHEAPER. I RECEIVED ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE 20V-675 DATED NOVEMBER 2020, ON THE TOE LINKS AND RETURNED THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER ON 12-30-2020. THEY REPORTED THAT THE TOE LINKS PASSED THE INSPECTION AND THEY REPLACED THE ATTACHING BOLTS. ON 1-30-2021 I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE IN A 70 MPH ZONE IN THREE LANES OF TRAFFIC WHEN THE LEFT SIDE TOE LINK FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WENT WILDLY OUT OF CONTROL, SKIDDING AND SLIDING BACK AND FORTH UNTIL I WAS ABLE TO FIGHT IT TO A STOP. LUCKILY THERE WAS NOT A COLLISION WITH NEARBY TRAFFIC. THIS WAS 30 DAYS AFTER THE TOE LINK WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN INSPECTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A FORD DEALER IN THE AREA. THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH TOE LINKS. I HAVE THE BROKEN TOE LINK. FORD HAS REFUSED TO COVER ANY OF MY EXPENSE WHICH INCLUDED A RENTAL CAR. MY CONCERN IS THAT DRIVING THE CAR NOW PRESENTS A VERY SCARY SITUATION. WILL A TOE LINK BREAK AGAIN AND SEND THE VEHICLE OUT OF CONTROL CAUSING AN ACCIDENT?
NHTSA ODI #11396555
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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