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2016 Ford Explorer

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Explorer years

Owner complaints for the 2016 Ford Explorer are substantially higher than the model-year median of 609.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

1,502 reports with mileage · 947 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.

  • Structure. Review the 584 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Steering. Review the 530 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 381 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

39 crash reports14 fire reports43 injury reports

Vehicle Speed Control complaints

76 reports
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58,000 miles · Mar 2, 2023
Power TrainVehicle Speed Control

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and while idling, the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The dashboard was shaking, and the glove box was rattling. While shifting from park to drive or reverse, the vehicle vibrated. Additionally, the vehicle was hesitating and misfiring du…

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The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and while idling, the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The dashboard was shaking, and the glove box was rattling. While shifting from park to drive or reverse, the vehicle vibrated. Additionally, the vehicle was hesitating and misfiring during acceleration. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.

NHTSA ODI #11509901

Mileage unknown · Nov 9, 2022
Vehicle Speed ControlCrash

On Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at about 4:00 pm I proceeded to parallel park my vehicle and as I put my foot on the gas pedal the car took off uncontrollably at a very high speed, I tried to control the car but before I could stop it, I crashed and hit a tree. My vehicle was severely damaged. The vehicle was taken to the Deal…

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On Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at about 4:00 pm I proceeded to parallel park my vehicle and as I put my foot on the gas pedal the car took off uncontrollably at a very high speed, I tried to control the car but before I could stop it, I crashed and hit a tree. My vehicle was severely damaged. The vehicle was taken to the Dealer for inspection, and I was told there was nothing wrong. I know what happened and there is something wrong with this vehicle. I am glad that the tree was there because if not I believe I would have ended inside the house that was behind the tree and could have injured someone. My vehicle is at the body shop now, but I don't think I will drive it anymore, I don't feel safe in it.

NHTSA ODI #11492930

57,000 miles · Jun 7, 2021
Vehicle Speed Control

The contact's girlfriend owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated after placing groceries inside the vehicle, the contact heard a chime as the liftgate independently started closing, almost striking him on the head. The contact also stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would stall or surge upon depression of …

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The contact's girlfriend owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated after placing groceries inside the vehicle, the contact heard a chime as the liftgate independently started closing, almost striking him on the head. The contact also stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would stall or surge upon depression of the accelerator pedal, with the service engine warning light illuminated. The contact also mentioned that the side-view mirrors would independently adjust while driving at various speeds. The contact stated that he manually adjusted the mirrors to correct his driving visibility. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The contact was then transferred to NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.

NHTSA ODI #11419950

173,000 miles · Mar 23, 2021
Power TrainVehicle Speed Control

THE CAR LOOSE THE POWER AND DON'T GO OVER 20 MILES AN HOUR . RPM GOES OVER 5000 CAR SPEED DON'T CHANGE MAKE NOISE YOU CAN'T GO UP THE HAVE THE POWER TO GO ONLY 20 MILES TO 23 MILES AN HOUR

NHTSA ODI #11404463

Mileage unknown · Jan 27, 2021
Vehicle Speed Control

WE ARE DRIVING BACK FROM ZION NATIONAL PARK THEN IN THE FREEWAY SUDDENLY I LOST POWER LUCKILY IT WAS ON A DOWN HILL. I WENT ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD THEN THEN COUPLE I STARTED RIGHT BACK. NOW AM AFRAID DRIVING IT FAR AWAY. FROM TIME TO TIME WHEN UPHILL IT JERK A BIT AND IT FEELS LIKE LOOSING POWER.

NHTSA ODI #11390355

Mileage unknown · Dec 31, 2020
Vehicle Speed Control

USING A PEDAL COMMANDER PC18 BLUETOOTH "THROTTLE ENHANCER" IN AN EMERGENCY VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A VHF MOBILE TWO-WAY RADIO. THE RADIO TRANSMITS AT 50W AND IS INSTALLED BY A PROFESSIONAL EMERGENCY VEHICLE UPFITTER PER MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS. WHEN TRANSMITTING IN THE 156MHZ RANGE THE PEDAL COMMAND CONSISTENTLY AND UNEXPECTEDL…

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USING A PEDAL COMMANDER PC18 BLUETOOTH "THROTTLE ENHANCER" IN AN EMERGENCY VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A VHF MOBILE TWO-WAY RADIO. THE RADIO TRANSMITS AT 50W AND IS INSTALLED BY A PROFESSIONAL EMERGENCY VEHICLE UPFITTER PER MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS. WHEN TRANSMITTING IN THE 156MHZ RANGE THE PEDAL COMMAND CONSISTENTLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO BEGIN ACCELERATING WHEN IN DRIVE, AND INCREASING THE RPM OF THE ENGINE IN PARK. THE ACCELERATION CONTINUES AS LONG AS THE USER IS TRANSMITTING ON THE TWO-WAY RADIO. AS SOON AS THE TRANSMISSING ENDS THE VEHICLE GOES BACK TO IDLE OR RPMS CONSISTENT WITH THE PEDAL POSITION. THESE SYMPTOMS GO AWAY AS SOON AS THE PC18 IS REMOVED. THIS ISSUE WAS ALSO EXPERIENCED BY OTHER USERS WITH PC18 AND RADIOS THAT TRANSMIT IN THE MID 150MHZ RANGE.

NHTSA ODI #11385949

51,000 miles · Mar 29, 2020
Power TrainVehicle Speed Control

MY FAMILY AND I WERE AT A A GAS STATION ABOUT TO GET ON THE FREEWAY WHEN MY FORD EXPLORER STARTED TO STALL. I PULLED TO THE SIDE AND TURNED IT OFF AND BACK ON. THIS ACTION SEEMED TO FIX THE PROBLEM; HOWEVER, AFTER THAT DAY (4 MONTHS AGO) THE FORD EXPLORER HAS BEEN STALLING EVERY TIME I START IT AND START TO PULL OUT OF MY DRIVE …

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MY FAMILY AND I WERE AT A A GAS STATION ABOUT TO GET ON THE FREEWAY WHEN MY FORD EXPLORER STARTED TO STALL. I PULLED TO THE SIDE AND TURNED IT OFF AND BACK ON. THIS ACTION SEEMED TO FIX THE PROBLEM; HOWEVER, AFTER THAT DAY (4 MONTHS AGO) THE FORD EXPLORER HAS BEEN STALLING EVERY TIME I START IT AND START TO PULL OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY. IT WILL LOSE SPEED WHEN I TRY TO ACCELERATE AND WILL STALL FOR THE FIRST MINUTE OR SO BEFORE RESUMING BACK TO NORMALS I AM NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE WITH MY FAMILY AS IT DOES NOT FEEL SAFE AT ALL. ADDITIONALLY, AFTER STALLING I WILL GET THE WRENCH SYMBOL ON MY DASH.

NHTSA ODI #11319622

31,000 miles · Nov 22, 2019
Vehicle Speed Control

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AT A FAST RATE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE …

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED AT A FAST RATE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AFTER WAITING IN PARK FOR A MOMENT. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000.

NHTSA ODI #11281762

43,600 miles · Oct 10, 2019
EnginePower TrainVehicle Speed Control

THE ACCELERATOR BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE AND MY VEHICLE'S RPM DROPS, REGARDLESS IF I AM PRESSING ON THE GAS PEDAL. MOST NOTABLY OCCURS WHEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY, BUT HAS HAPPENED DRIVING WITHIN CITY LIMITS. I HAVE TO PRESS DOWN ON THE GAS PEDAL AND WAIT FOR THE VEHICLE TO EVENTUALLY PICK UP SPEED OR SHIFT GEAR TO NEUTRAL TO DRIVE …

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THE ACCELERATOR BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE AND MY VEHICLE'S RPM DROPS, REGARDLESS IF I AM PRESSING ON THE GAS PEDAL. MOST NOTABLY OCCURS WHEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY, BUT HAS HAPPENED DRIVING WITHIN CITY LIMITS. I HAVE TO PRESS DOWN ON THE GAS PEDAL AND WAIT FOR THE VEHICLE TO EVENTUALLY PICK UP SPEED OR SHIFT GEAR TO NEUTRAL TO DRIVE TO BE ABLE TO ACCELERATE WHEN PRESSING ON GAS PEDAL. THIS IS A SAFETY CONCERN DUE TO THE VEHICLE GOING LIMP MODE, ESPECIALLY ON A FREEWAY. THIS HAPPENS APPROXIMATELY 2-3 TIMES IN A 1 HOUR DRIVING PERIOD. THE LAST TIME THIS HAPPENED THE VEHICLE WRENCH LIGHT WHEN ON AND MY VEHICLE WAS JOLTING WHEN I PRESSED ON THE GAS PEDAL. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP THE WRENCH LIGHT WENT AWAY. IT IS CURRENTLY BEING SEEN BY A TECHNICIAN; HOWEVER, THE TECHNICIAN IS HAVING A HARD TIME DUPLICATING THIS PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. I TRIED TO TAKE IT TO ANOTHER DEALERSHIP PREVIOUSLY FOR THE SAME ISSUE, HOWEVER THEY TURNED ME DOWN DUE TO IT BEING AN INTERMITTENT ISSUE.

NHTSA ODI #11267593

40,000 miles · Jul 31, 2019
EnginePower TrainVehicle Speed Control

WITH NO WARNING - EXPERIENCED SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER WHILE DRIVING. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. ALSO THE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON WITH A MESSAGE THAT SAID "SEE MANUAL." I WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF TRAFFICE AND PULL OVER. AFTER TEN MINUTES, I RESTARTED THE CAR. THE CAR STARTED BACK UP WITH NO PROBLEM AND THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS BACK OFF. FROM THER…

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WITH NO WARNING - EXPERIENCED SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER WHILE DRIVING. ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. ALSO THE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON WITH A MESSAGE THAT SAID "SEE MANUAL." I WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF TRAFFICE AND PULL OVER. AFTER TEN MINUTES, I RESTARTED THE CAR. THE CAR STARTED BACK UP WITH NO PROBLEM AND THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS BACK OFF. FROM THERE IT DROVE BEAUTIFULLY LIKE IT NEVER HAPPENED - EXCEPT THAT IT DID ! FOUR DAYS LATER, I TAKE IT TO THE DEALORSHIP. THEY DETERMINED THAT THIS HAPPENED DUE TO A DEFECTIVE THROTTLE BODY. I HAVE TO HAVE IT REPLACED AND IT'S GOING TO COST ME $380. I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT WITH THE SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE ALL OVER THE INTERNET THAT THEY DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT THIS AT THE DEALORSHIP WHEN THEY SOLD ME THE CAR. AND ALSO THAT FORD HAS NOT RECALLED THIS YET CONSIDERING THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS. I HAVE TO HAVE THIS FIXED, I HAVE NO CHOICE. I WOULD DEFINITLY LIKE TO REUMBERSED FOR THIS REPAIR. BUT IN ADDITION TO THE OUT OF POCKET COST, THE POWER GOING OUT ON THE CAR WHILE DRIVING IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. WITH THE SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE WITH THIS SPECIFIC VEHICLE MODEL / YEAR , I HOPE THAT SOMEBODY DOESN'T HAVE TO DIE BEFORE THEY PLACE A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE.

NHTSA ODI #11240868

Official recalls

14

26V448000 · Structure:body

Jul 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.

25V685000 · Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater

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.

25V347000 · Structure:body

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.

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.

21V316000 · Structure:body

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.

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.

17V767000 · Seats

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.

16V475000 · Seats:front Assembly:recliner

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.

16V183000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine

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.

15V605000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting

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.

15V464000 · Parking Brake

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

2

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

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