NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Fuel/propulsion System complaints
104 reportsClear category filterMileage unknown · Sep 16, 2019
Fuel/propulsion System
FUME SMELL COMING FROM VEHICLE WHILE MOVING, CAN SMELL BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF CAR! SEEMS LIKE SMELL IS MORE IN FRONT OF CAR THEN IN BACK ONCE CAR IS PARKED AND I GET OUT OF CAR. I AM FEELING VERY UNWELL WHILE DRIVING; NAUSEA, DIZZINESS, STINGY EYES AND BLURRY VISION. IT IS HAPPENING REGARDLESS OF THE HEATING/AIR BEING ON/OF…
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FUME SMELL COMING FROM VEHICLE WHILE MOVING, CAN SMELL BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF CAR! SEEMS LIKE SMELL IS MORE IN FRONT OF CAR THEN IN BACK ONCE CAR IS PARKED AND I GET OUT OF CAR. I AM FEELING VERY UNWELL WHILE DRIVING; NAUSEA, DIZZINESS, STINGY EYES AND BLURRY VISION. IT IS HAPPENING REGARDLESS OF THE HEATING/AIR BEING ON/OFF. I HAVE FOR DAYS NEEDED TO DRIVE WITH ALL WINDOWS DOWN. MY CHILDREN FEEL SICK AS WELL. MY HUSBAND CAN SMELL IT, BUT THIS FAR HAS NOT BEEN FEELING SICK FROM IT. THIS HAPPENS NO MATTER IF I AM DRIVING CITY/HIGHWAY/STATIONARY/IN MOTION, ALL THE TIME. WE HAVE BEEN FEELING SICK FOR A WHILE BUT THE SMELL IS WITHIN THE LAST WEEK.
NHTSA ODI #11255797
48,600 miles · Jul 30, 2019
Fuel/propulsion System
WHILE STATIONARY, OR SITTING IN VEHICLE WHILE IDLING, CARBON MONOXIDE IS DETECTED IN THE CABIN AND I HAVE BEEN FALLING ASLEEP AND STAYING TIRED FOR REST OF THE DAY. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON IN THE 2 MONTHS THAT I HAVE HAD THE NEW SUV. I SUSPECTED AFTER I WAS TOLD BY A FRIEND THAT THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY SHERIFFS. I PLUGGED IN…
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WHILE STATIONARY, OR SITTING IN VEHICLE WHILE IDLING, CARBON MONOXIDE IS DETECTED IN THE CABIN AND I HAVE BEEN FALLING ASLEEP AND STAYING TIRED FOR REST OF THE DAY. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON IN THE 2 MONTHS THAT I HAVE HAD THE NEW SUV. I SUSPECTED AFTER I WAS TOLD BY A FRIEND THAT THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED BY SHERIFFS. I PLUGGED IN MY HOME DETECTOR TO CHECK IF THAT WERE THE CASE. I AM NO LONGER IDLING WITHOUT WINDOWS OPEN IF POSSIBLE DUE TO WEATHER.
NHTSA ODI #11240652
41,000 miles · Jul 22, 2019
Fuel/propulsion System
MOVING DOWN A HIGHWAY WHEN WITH A SUDDEN SHUTTER AND THEN A LOUD BANG THE CAR IMMEDIATELY LOST POWER WITH BLINDING SMOKE IN AND AROUND THE CAR. MADE IT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND HAD FIRE LAPPING UP THE DRIVERS SIDE ROCKER PANEL FROM UNDER THE CAR. TRANSFER CASE EXPLODED WITH SUCH FORCE IT DAMAGED THE TRANSMISSION. OCCURRED…
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MOVING DOWN A HIGHWAY WHEN WITH A SUDDEN SHUTTER AND THEN A LOUD BANG THE CAR IMMEDIATELY LOST POWER WITH BLINDING SMOKE IN AND AROUND THE CAR. MADE IT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND HAD FIRE LAPPING UP THE DRIVERS SIDE ROCKER PANEL FROM UNDER THE CAR. TRANSFER CASE EXPLODED WITH SUCH FORCE IT DAMAGED THE TRANSMISSION. OCCURRED AT 41,000 MILES ON A THREE YEAR OLD VECHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11233816
21,300 miles · Jun 28, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Fuel/propulsion System
I STOPPED AT TRAFFIC LIGHT, I HEARD A STRANGE SOUND, AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. I PRESS THE GAS GAS TO CROSS INTERSECTION AND CAR WOULD ONLY GO 3 MILES AN HOUR, I MANAGED TO TURN INTO SIDE STREET, AND TURNED CAR OFF. WHEN I RESTARTED CAR AND I WAS ABLE TO ACCELERATE AND PROCEEDED TO DRIVE TO MY DESTINATION, WHEN I STOPPED AT…
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I STOPPED AT TRAFFIC LIGHT, I HEARD A STRANGE SOUND, AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. I PRESS THE GAS GAS TO CROSS INTERSECTION AND CAR WOULD ONLY GO 3 MILES AN HOUR, I MANAGED TO TURN INTO SIDE STREET, AND TURNED CAR OFF. WHEN I RESTARTED CAR AND I WAS ABLE TO ACCELERATE AND PROCEEDED TO DRIVE TO MY DESTINATION, WHEN I STOPPED AT ANOTHER RED LIGHT IT HAPPENED AGAIN AND THEN ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I THEN TURNED OFF CAR AND RESTATED TO FIND ALL WARNING LIGHTS OFF. I THEN DROVE TO AUTO NATION FORD DEALERSHIP. THEY DIAGNOSED WITH A THROTTLE PROBLEM. WHEN CHECKING THE INTERNET I SEE A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM, IT COULD HAVE BEE A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION SINCE THIS HAPPENED ST AN INTERSECTION.
NHTSA ODI #11228267
40,000 miles · May 28, 2019
EngineFuel/propulsion System
I WAS DRIVING ALONG AT ABOUT 55 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED. THE PEDALS WERE NOT IN THE RIGHT LOCATIONS SO I DECIDED TO ADJUST THEM TO A HIGHER POSITION WITH THE BUTTON ON THE SIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN. WHEN I DID THE ADJUSTMENT, THE ENGINE WENT INTO A FULL THROTTLE MODE AND WOULD NOT LET UP. I PUSHED DOWN ON THE BRA…
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I WAS DRIVING ALONG AT ABOUT 55 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED. THE PEDALS WERE NOT IN THE RIGHT LOCATIONS SO I DECIDED TO ADJUST THEM TO A HIGHER POSITION WITH THE BUTTON ON THE SIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN. WHEN I DID THE ADJUSTMENT, THE ENGINE WENT INTO A FULL THROTTLE MODE AND WOULD NOT LET UP. I PUSHED DOWN ON THE BRAKES HARD AND VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN AND THE ENGINE RETURNED TO NORMAL. WHEN I TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY WENT FULL THROTTLE AGAIN AND THEN BACK DOWN AGAIN WHEN I PUSHED THE BRAKE PEDAL DOWN HARD. THIS CYCLE CONTINUED EVEN THOUGH I SHUT OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL AND TRIED PUTTING THE SHIFTER IN NEUTRAL. I WAS FINAL ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND SHUT THE ENGINE OFF. I RESTARTED THE ENGINE AFTER A FEW MINUTES AND EVERYTHING SEEMED TO WORK NORMALLY. THIS WAS A VERY DANGEROUS AND SCARY EVENT. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE OR HAVE MY WIFE DRIVE IT. I REPORTED IT TO FORD BUT HAVE NOT HEARD BACK FROM THEM AT THIS TIME.
NHTSA ODI #11210510
45,000 miles · Apr 23, 2019
Fuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or OtherCrashFireInjury
ON 3/21/19 I WAS DRIVING WHEN A CAR STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME AND I HIT THEM. MY AIRBAG WENT OFF AND WAS SMOKING BLACK SMOKE. THERE WAS ALSO A FIRE, ABOUT 1.5 FT TALL THAT APPEARED FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE HOOD. I SAT IN SHOCK UNTIL SOMEONE TOLD ME TO GET OUT. I GOT OUT AND GRABBED MY 4 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER. SHE WAS IN A CAR SEA…
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ON 3/21/19 I WAS DRIVING WHEN A CAR STOPPED IN FRONT OF ME AND I HIT THEM. MY AIRBAG WENT OFF AND WAS SMOKING BLACK SMOKE. THERE WAS ALSO A FIRE, ABOUT 1.5 FT TALL THAT APPEARED FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE HOOD. I SAT IN SHOCK UNTIL SOMEONE TOLD ME TO GET OUT. I GOT OUT AND GRABBED MY 4 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER. SHE WAS IN A CAR SEAT AND STILL SECURED AFTER THE ACCIDENT. THANKFULLY WE WERE NOT SERIOUSLY INJURED. WE SAT WATCHING MY CAR QUICKLY ENGULF IN FLAMES. BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME THE CAR WAS PRETTY MUCH ALL BURNED. I LOST A LOT OF VALUABLE AND SENTIMENTAL PERSONAL BELONGINGS IN MY CAR WHICH INSURANCE DOES NOT COVER THE COST OF. IT WAS A TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE TO GO THROUGH FOR MY DAUGHTER AND I. I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT A MINOR ACCIDENT SHOULD CAUSE A FIRE LIKE THIS. I HAVE REACHED OUT FOR FORD MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEY WILL NOT INVESTIGATE WHICH I FIND EXTREMELY FRUSTRATING. I WOULD LIKE TO PREVENT THIS HORRIBLE THING HAPPENING TO SOMEONE ELSE. ALTHOUGH WE WERE NOT INJURED IT COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE, AND EVEN DEADLY.
NHTSA ODI #11203090
70,000 miles · Apr 17, 2019
Fuel/propulsion SystemStructureUnknown Or OtherInjury
ONE MORNING, I BEGAN TO SMELL A SULFUR OR GAS-LIKE SMELL INSIDE THE CAR. I THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT BUT IT PERSISTED FROM 5:00 A.M. -9:00 A.M. MY 7 YEAR OLD SON EVEN SMELLED IT WHEN ENTERING THE CAR. AFTER DROPPING HIM OFF AT SCHOOL I DROVE TO DEALERSHIP TO GET IT INSPECTED. DURING THAT DRIVE, WITH THE WINDOWS CRACKED, I BEGAN TO F…
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ONE MORNING, I BEGAN TO SMELL A SULFUR OR GAS-LIKE SMELL INSIDE THE CAR. I THOUGHT NOTHING OF IT BUT IT PERSISTED FROM 5:00 A.M. -9:00 A.M. MY 7 YEAR OLD SON EVEN SMELLED IT WHEN ENTERING THE CAR. AFTER DROPPING HIM OFF AT SCHOOL I DROVE TO DEALERSHIP TO GET IT INSPECTED. DURING THAT DRIVE, WITH THE WINDOWS CRACKED, I BEGAN TO FEEL A DULL HEADACHE, DIZZINESS AND MUSCLE WEAKNESS. ONCE I DROPPED MY CAR OFF FOR INSPECTION AND WAS OUT OF THE CAR I DIDN'T FEEL ANY BETTER AND MY HEADACHE AND WEAKNESS GOT WORSE. MY WIFE TOOK ME TO THE ER OUT OF PRECAUTION AND AFTER BLOODWORK WAS TAKEN, I WAS CONFIRMED TO HAVE HAD CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. I AM A NON-SMOKER AND MY COHB LEVELS WERE TWICE THAT OF A NON-SMOKER : 3.8% IT WAS RAINING OUT SO I COULD NOT UNROLLI WINDOWS AS MUCH AS I WANTED TO. I WAS NOT DRIVING WITH THE A/C ON, WAS NOT SITTING IDLE. MINIMUM SPEED WAS 5-10 MPH AND MAX SPEED WAS 70 MPH FORD IDENTIFIED THE SMELL AS A FAILING PTU BUT CLAIMED THERE WAS NO CO PRESENT AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH A CO SENSOR INSIDE THE CAB. I HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE FOR 32 MONTHS WITH NO ISSUE BUT I CANNOT IGNORE THAT I DID IN FACT HAVE CARBON MONOXIDE EXPOSURE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE EXISTENCE OF THE STRONG SULFUR SMELL SHOWING UP. I AM NOT CONVINCED CARBON MONOXIDE GETTING INSIDE THE VEHICLE WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN.
NHTSA ODI #11196870
Mileage unknown · Nov 11, 2018
EngineFuel/propulsion System
9/29/18: REMOTE START STOPPED WORKING AND CAR SPUTTERED WHEN STARTING. 10/14/18: AFTER MANUALLY STARTING WITH PUSH-BUTTON, WHITE SMOKE FILLED MY GARAGE AND CAR WITH 3 CHILDREN. EXPLORER TOWED TO BRANDON FORD DEALERSHIP THAT DAY WHICH HAPPENED TO BE A SUNDAY. AS OF TODAY, I STILL DON'T HAVE MY EXPLORER BACK. I WAS INFORMED THAT F…
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9/29/18: REMOTE START STOPPED WORKING AND CAR SPUTTERED WHEN STARTING. 10/14/18: AFTER MANUALLY STARTING WITH PUSH-BUTTON, WHITE SMOKE FILLED MY GARAGE AND CAR WITH 3 CHILDREN. EXPLORER TOWED TO BRANDON FORD DEALERSHIP THAT DAY WHICH HAPPENED TO BE A SUNDAY. AS OF TODAY, I STILL DON'T HAVE MY EXPLORER BACK. I WAS INFORMED THAT FLUID GOT INTO THE CYLINDER AND THE CYLINDER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. UNFORTUNATELY THERE IS A BACKLOG ON THIS PARTICULAR PART. AS I APPROACH THE 5TH WEEK WITH THIS LOANER VEHICLE, I AM WONDERING IF THERE IS MORE TO THE PROBLEM OR IF THERE IS ANYTHING THAT ANYONE CAN DO TO HELP ME GET RESOLUTION.
NHTSA ODI #11150795
72,000 miles · Oct 25, 2018
Fuel/propulsion System
2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN PUTTING CAR IN REVERSE THERE IS A LOUD THUD THEN WHEN PUTTING IT IN DRIVE ANOTHER LOUD THUD THAT ACTUALLY SOUNDS LIKE I HIT SOMETHING. THEN WHEN TRYING TO GIVE IT GAS IT WILL ACT AS IF IT IS IN NEUTRAL. THE GAS IS PRESSED BUT WON'T GO AND ENGINE WILL JUST REV. THEN IT WILL START CUTTING OUT AS IF IT IS G…
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2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN PUTTING CAR IN REVERSE THERE IS A LOUD THUD THEN WHEN PUTTING IT IN DRIVE ANOTHER LOUD THUD THAT ACTUALLY SOUNDS LIKE I HIT SOMETHING. THEN WHEN TRYING TO GIVE IT GAS IT WILL ACT AS IF IT IS IN NEUTRAL. THE GAS IS PRESSED BUT WON'T GO AND ENGINE WILL JUST REV. THEN IT WILL START CUTTING OUT AS IF IT IS GOING TO DIE. I CAN ONLY GET UP TO ABOUT 30 MPH DURING THIS TIME. AFTER DRIVING FOR A SHORT TIME IT'S LIKE IT WARMS UP AND WILL QUIT. THIS PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT AND I CAN GO A WEEK OR TWO WITHOUT IT HAPPENING AT ALL. AND WHEN IT DOES HAPPEN IT WILL ONLY HAPPEN IN THE MORNING AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING ALL NIGHT. I STARTED PRESSING ON THE GAS SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE STARTING (PUSH BUTTON) AND THEN BEFORE PUTTING IN GEAR WILL PRESS ON THE GAS SEVERAL TIMES AND REV THE ENGINE AND THE CUTTING OUT SYMPTOMS WILL NOT HAPPEN HOWEVER THE THUD NOISE HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY STILL.
NHTSA ODI #11142626
51,800 miles · Aug 23, 2018
Fuel/propulsion System
I BEGAN TO NOTICE A STRONG GAS FUME SMELL IN THE CAB WHILE DRIVING. I HAVE SINCE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS. THE 'RECALL' REPAIR FOR CO CONCERNS DID NOTHING. I CURRENTLY STILL HAVE THE STRONG SMELL INSIDE CAB.
NHTSA ODI #11121947
Official recalls
14Jul 14, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 28, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S54. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Oct 10, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
May 23, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Door trim that detaches while driving can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the B-pillar trim, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 5, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S53.
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.
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.
May 5, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips and roof rail covers, as necessary, free of charge. The interim owner notification letter was mailed on June 22, 2021. Owner notification letters (remedy available) were mailed on October 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S22.
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.
Nov 29, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tightness of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt, either applying threadlocker or replacing the lift link and hardware, free of charge. Interim letters are expected to go out January 15, 2018. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S40.
Jun 28, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall begin on August 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 16C11.
Mar 31, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines and engine block heaters. These engine block heaters have elements that may overheat while plugged in.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S14. Note: Owners should not use the engine block heater until the vehicle has been remedied.
Sep 28, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015. During vehicle production, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been properly tightened. As a result, the fuel tank straps may fracture and the fuel tank could separate from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the fuel tank attachment bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S26.
Jul 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015. The affected vehicles have a parking brake that may not fully engage when applied. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the operation of the parking brake system, and if necessary, replace the parking brake control assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 4, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C07.
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
2PE23001 · 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
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