NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Electrical System complaints
93 reportsClear category filter21,000 miles · Feb 6, 2019
Electrical System
AFTER THE 2017 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WAS STARTED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS BLANK, THE CLIMATE WOULD NOT WORK, THE WIPERS, BLINKERS, WINDOWS, ETC. WOULD NOT OPERATE. I TRIED RESTARTING THE VEHICLE MULTIPLE TIMES TO SEE IF THE PROBLEM WOULD CORRECT ITSELF AND IT DID NOT. I CONTACTED THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND THEY ASKED ME TO DROP IT…
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AFTER THE 2017 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WAS STARTED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS BLANK, THE CLIMATE WOULD NOT WORK, THE WIPERS, BLINKERS, WINDOWS, ETC. WOULD NOT OPERATE. I TRIED RESTARTING THE VEHICLE MULTIPLE TIMES TO SEE IF THE PROBLEM WOULD CORRECT ITSELF AND IT DID NOT. I CONTACTED THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND THEY ASKED ME TO DROP IT OFF. IT WAS POURING DOWN RAIN AND I COULD BARELY SEE TO DRIVE SINCE THE WIPERS WOULD NOT WORK. I COULD NOT BLINKER TO TURN. THANKFULLY, I ONLY HAD TO DRIVE ABOUT A MILE TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP. THE CAR HAS ONLY 21,000 MILES ON IT. UNFORTUNATELY THIS IS NOT THE FIRST ISSUE WITH THIS BRAND NEW EXPLORER. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED AT 18,000 MILES BECAUSE IT HAD CORRODED. THE TIRES ARE ALL TEARING. I REALLY LIKE THE VEHICLE, JUST ASHAME THESE VEHICLES ARE NOT BUILT WITH QUALITY MATERIALS. I PAID 46,000 FOR WHAT I CONSIDER A LUXURY VEHICLE. FORTUNATELY THIS IS ALL UNDER WARRANTY.
NHTSA ODI #11174766
41,000 miles · Jan 3, 2019
Electrical SystemFire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, A BURNING ODOR EMITTED THROUGH THE VENTS OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED AUTONATION FORD SCOTTSDALE AT (480) 630-2827 (LOCATED AT 8555 E FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT BLVD, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85260) AND WAS INFORMED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINT…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, A BURNING ODOR EMITTED THROUGH THE VENTS OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED AUTONATION FORD SCOTTSDALE AT (480) 630-2827 (LOCATED AT 8555 E FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT BLVD, SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85260) AND WAS INFORMED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
NHTSA ODI #11165724
57,653 miles · Sep 24, 2018
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemVehicle Speed Control
I PURCHASED MY FORD EXPLORER 2017, IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016, I HAVE RETURNED BACK TO THE DEALER MORE THAN 10 TIMES LESS THAN A 2 YEAR PERIOD. MY FIRST PROBLEM WAS THE TRUCK WOULD NOT GET ENOUGH SPEED, UNLESS I HIT THE GAS 2 OIR 3 TIMES, THE DEALER CAME IT WASN'T A PROBLEM UNTIL THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, AND THAN I WAS TOLD IT WAS A…
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I PURCHASED MY FORD EXPLORER 2017, IN SEPTEMBER OF 2016, I HAVE RETURNED BACK TO THE DEALER MORE THAN 10 TIMES LESS THAN A 2 YEAR PERIOD. MY FIRST PROBLEM WAS THE TRUCK WOULD NOT GET ENOUGH SPEED, UNLESS I HIT THE GAS 2 OIR 3 TIMES, THE DEALER CAME IT WASN'T A PROBLEM UNTIL THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, AND THAN I WAS TOLD IT WAS A RECALL ON IT, BUT WHEN I CHECK, THERE WAS NO RECALL ON MY VIN. I HAVE 5 BATTERIES SINCE I HAD THE TRUCK, I ASK THEM WHAT IS CAUSING THIS, I NEVER GET A RESPONSE. MY AC/HEAT WENT OUT, I TOLD THEM, I NOTICE SOMETHING COMING IN THROUGH THE VENTS. I INFORMED THE DEALER'S REPAIR DEPARTMENT THAT IT SMELLED LIKE A ROTTEN EGG OR JUST LOOK LIKE AIR COMING IN THE VENTS. I NEVER GOT AN ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION. I TRIED CALLING FORD CORPORATE OFFICE, BUT KNOW ONE NEVER RETURNED MY CALL.
NHTSA ODI #11131112
8,900 miles · Aug 22, 2018
Electrical System
I WAS LEAVING A PARKING LOT AT THE MALL WITH MY BABY GIRL. I STARTED THE CAR AND STARTED TO DRIVE OUT OF THE PARKING GARAGE WHEN I REALIZED MY ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS OFF. I COULDN'T SEE MY SPEED LIMIT, BLINKERS, FUEL GAUGE, ETC... NOTHING WAS ON. I PANICKED AND PULLED OVER AS SOON AS IT WAS POSSIBLE FOR ME TO DO SO. I SHUT …
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I WAS LEAVING A PARKING LOT AT THE MALL WITH MY BABY GIRL. I STARTED THE CAR AND STARTED TO DRIVE OUT OF THE PARKING GARAGE WHEN I REALIZED MY ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS OFF. I COULDN'T SEE MY SPEED LIMIT, BLINKERS, FUEL GAUGE, ETC... NOTHING WAS ON. I PANICKED AND PULLED OVER AS SOON AS IT WAS POSSIBLE FOR ME TO DO SO. I SHUT THE ENGINE OFF, THEN STARTED IT BACK UP, AND STILL NOTHING IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. I THEN SHUT OFF ENGINE AGAIN, EXITED THE VEHICLE, AND PROCEEDED TO LOCK THE CAR. AT THIS POINT I HEARD EVERYTHING SHUT OFF COMPLETELY AND SO I GOT BACK IN AND STARTED THE CAR AGAIN. IT WORKED OKAY AFTER THAT.
NHTSA ODI #11121700
40,000 miles · Aug 16, 2018
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion System
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND MY CAR STARTED SHAKING AND SOUNDING DIFFERENT. THE VIBRATIONS KEPT GETTING WORSE. THEN I WAS TRYING TO ACCELERATE AND MY SPEED WAS GOING DOWN. I COULDN'T GET MY SUV TO GET ANY SPEED AT ALL IT GOT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO ZERO MPH AND I HAD TO COAST TO THE NEAREST PARKING LOT. THE LIGHT ON MY DASH SAID…
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I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND MY CAR STARTED SHAKING AND SOUNDING DIFFERENT. THE VIBRATIONS KEPT GETTING WORSE. THEN I WAS TRYING TO ACCELERATE AND MY SPEED WAS GOING DOWN. I COULDN'T GET MY SUV TO GET ANY SPEED AT ALL IT GOT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO ZERO MPH AND I HAD TO COAST TO THE NEAREST PARKING LOT. THE LIGHT ON MY DASH SAID TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FAILURE. LUCKILY THERE WEREN'T ANY CARS BEHIND ME AS IT WAS AT NIGHT TIME. I TURNED MY CAR OFF AND ON AGAIN AND TRIED TO RESTART THE COMPUTER WITH NO LUCK. THE OWNERS MANUAL SAYS TO RECYCLE THE KEY AND TRY AGAIN. MY CAR IS PUSH BUTTON START SO THAT WASN'T AN OPTION. I THEN LOOKED ON GOOGLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM AND SAW THERE WERE MULTIPLE ISSUES FROM MULTIPLE PEOPLE THAT HAD THE EXACT SAME EXPERIENCE. I HAD IT TOWED TO THE DEALER TODAY AND THEY SAID IT WAS THE THROTTLE BODY HAD WENT BAD. MY SUV ONLY HAS 40,000 MILES ON IT.
NHTSA ODI #11120547
15,000 miles · Jun 29, 2018
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemVehicle Speed Control
I HAVE ENCOUNTERED TOO MANY ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE, MY BIGGEST ISSUE HAS TO DO WITH WHAT I THOUGHT I WAS HAVING A "FALLING ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL" ISSUE. THERE WERE A FEW TIMES LAST WINTER, AFTER LETTING THE CAR SIT STATIONARY AND WARM UP , THAT I COULDN'T "STAY AWAKE" WHILE DRIVING HOME ON THE FREEWAY. IT HAPPENED ONCE, TWICE,…
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I HAVE ENCOUNTERED TOO MANY ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE, MY BIGGEST ISSUE HAS TO DO WITH WHAT I THOUGHT I WAS HAVING A "FALLING ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL" ISSUE. THERE WERE A FEW TIMES LAST WINTER, AFTER LETTING THE CAR SIT STATIONARY AND WARM UP , THAT I COULDN'T "STAY AWAKE" WHILE DRIVING HOME ON THE FREEWAY. IT HAPPENED ONCE, TWICE, THEN CONTINUED, AND IT BECAME APPARENT IT WAS THE VEHICLE, NOT ME, THAT WAS CAUSING THIS. IT CAN BE BEST DESCRIBED AS THE SENSATION RIGHT BEFORE BEING PUT UNDER FOR A MEDICAL PROCEDURE. I WOULD THEN COME OUT OF THIS UNCONCIOUS STATE IN POTENTLALLY DEADLY DRIVING SITUATIONS. I ALSO NOTICED THAT MY DOG WAS BEING AFFECTED AT THE SAME TIME. I COULD SEE HIM GETTING ANXIOUS NEXT TO ME, AND THEN HAVE WHAT LOOKED LIKE A PANIC ATTACK UNTIL I PUT THE WINDOW DOWN. HE WOULD KEEP HIS HEAD OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE FOR A MAJORITY OF THE RIDE. I BASICALLY STOPPED USING THE HEATER. AT THE SAME TIME, THE BATTERY KEPT DYING, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUT DOWN AND GO INTO A "BATTERY SAFE" MODE, AND IT NEEDED TO BE JUMPED EVERY OTHER TRIP. WHEN I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER, THEY BASICALLY SAID THERE MAY BE A PROBLEM, BUT THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE REPLACEMENT PARTS, AND WOULD CALL ME WHEN THEY GOT IN. I NEVER HEARD BACK FROM THEM. THIS IS MY 3RD AND LAST LEASE WITH FORD, MY PREVIOUS 2 EDGES BOTH HAD NUMEROUS ELECTRICAL ISSUES, INCLUDING LOOSING POWER WHILE DRIVING. NOW, I'M IN AN UNSAFE VEHICLE, AND THEY WON'T EVEN ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM. I WANT OUT OF MY LEASE, BUT IN MY EXPERIENCE WITH FORD, THE CONSUMER LOOSES EVERY TIME. CAN'T FIGHT THEM IF THEY DON'T ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM. I'M PRAYING FOR MY LIFE, AND OTHER DRIVERS LIVES THAT SOMETHING GET RESOLVED QUICKLY BEFORE SOMEONE LOOSES THEIR LIFE. DOESN'T SEEM FAIR THAT THE CONSUMER HAS TO PAY FOR THE COMPANIES SHORTCOMINGS...
NHTSA ODI #11104709
14,640 miles · Oct 24, 2017
Electrical SystemEngineService Brakes
DRIVING DOWN A DIRT TRAIL FROM A MOUNTAIN OUTLOOK THE CARS ELECTRICAL SHUT OFF. WE HAD NO CONTROL OF BRAKES, OR ANYTHING BUT STEARING. NOT TO MENTION WE WERE PICKING UP MAJOR SPEED DOWN A MOUNTAIN, AND BOUNCING EVERYWHERE. WE HAD TO SWERVE BACK AND FORTH, HITTING BUSHES AND SEMI DRIVING UP THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN TO TRY AND SLO…
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DRIVING DOWN A DIRT TRAIL FROM A MOUNTAIN OUTLOOK THE CARS ELECTRICAL SHUT OFF. WE HAD NO CONTROL OF BRAKES, OR ANYTHING BUT STEARING. NOT TO MENTION WE WERE PICKING UP MAJOR SPEED DOWN A MOUNTAIN, AND BOUNCING EVERYWHERE. WE HAD TO SWERVE BACK AND FORTH, HITTING BUSHES AND SEMI DRIVING UP THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN TO TRY AND SLOW DOWN. OUR WHOLE FAMILY WAS IN THE CAR, INCLUDING A TWO MONTH OLD AND A THREE YEAR OLD. THE ONLY WAY WE GOT IT TO WORK AGAIN WAS SLAMMING THE SHIFTER INTO NEUTRAL AND THEN PUSHING THE RESTART BUTTON, BUT IT WAS PROBABLY JUST OUR PRAYERS THAT GOT THE CAR TO TURN BACK ON AND GIVE US BRAKE CONTROL AGAIN. I'M AFRAID TO DRIVE MY CAR IN FEAR OF IT HAPPENING AGAIN.
NHTSA ODI #11039479
150 miles · Oct 23, 2017
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train
MY 2017 FORD EXPLORER XLT WITH BASE 3.5 V6 HAS BEEN HARD TO START FROM THE FIRST WEEK OF OWNERSHIP. IT HAS LESS THAN 5000 MILES ON IT NOW AND ISN'T FIXED. FORD DEALERSHIP STATED IT WOULD HAVE TO GET WORSE BEFORE THEY COULD FIX IT. VEHICLE SHOWS NO DTC'S OR ANY HISTORY! MY WIFE HAS REFUSED TO DRIVE IT OUT OF TOWN DUE TO THE FEAR…
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MY 2017 FORD EXPLORER XLT WITH BASE 3.5 V6 HAS BEEN HARD TO START FROM THE FIRST WEEK OF OWNERSHIP. IT HAS LESS THAN 5000 MILES ON IT NOW AND ISN'T FIXED. FORD DEALERSHIP STATED IT WOULD HAVE TO GET WORSE BEFORE THEY COULD FIX IT. VEHICLE SHOWS NO DTC'S OR ANY HISTORY! MY WIFE HAS REFUSED TO DRIVE IT OUT OF TOWN DUE TO THE FEAR OF IT NOT STARTING AT ALL. WE HAVE RECORDED OVER 30 VIDEOS OF IT NOT STARTING AND HAVE SENT VIDEOS TO FORD MOTOR CO. WITH THE SAME RESPONSE, CANT FIX IT IF IT ISN'T BROKE. APPARENTLY IT WILL HAVE TO EITHER BREAK SOMETHING INTERNALLY AND LEAVE MY WIFE AND CHILD STRANDED, BEFORE IT WILL BE DIAGNOSED. IT IS A $40000 LEMON THAT TAKES 3-4 TIMES ATTEMPTING TO START BEFORE THE ENGINE WILL RUN. THIS WEEKEND IT TOOK AT LEAST 30-40 SECONDS BEFORE VEHICLE STARTED, THEN IT WOULD NOT IDLE CORRECTLY! STILL NO DTC'S! VEHICLE DOES THIS NO MATTER THE LENGTH OF TIME ENGINE HAS RUN OR LEVEL OF FUEL? IT DOES IT DURING REMOTE START OR THE PUSH BUTTON. IT DOES AT TIMES HAVE A STRONG ODOR OF GAS AFTER START-UP, ALMOST AS IF IT WAS FLOODED? AS A PERSON IN THE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR WORLD, THE ABSENCE OF CONCERN FROM FORD IS SHOCKING! SO INSTEAD OF TRYING TO CORRECT A ISSUE BEFORE IT BECOMES A DANGER, THEY WOULD RATHER IT BECOME DANGEROUS AND THEN REPAIR IT? IF IT IS A FUEL RELATED ISSUE, THEN THIS IS A POTENTIAL HAZARD THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. THE VEHICLE IS GETTING WORSE, BUT AS SAID EARLIER, IT WILL HAVE TO COMPLETELY NOT START BEFORE SOMETHING IS DONE. FORD MOTOR CO HAS NOT BEEN VERY HELPFUL, AND NOW I AM PROUD OWNER OF VEHICLE THAT WILL NOT START CORRECTLY.
NHTSA ODI #11035816
7,900 miles · Jun 14, 2017
Electrical System
WHEN DRIVING CAR LOST ALL ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS, POWER STEERING, RADIO, LIGHTS, ETC. I HAD IT TOWED TO SERVICE AND THEY SAID NOTHING CAME UP IN DIAGNOSTICS OR ERROR CODES. I PICKED THE CAR UP AND WITHIN A COUPLE WEEKS IT STARTED HAPPENING AGAIN. BEFORE IT WAS ONLY HAPPENING WHEN I SAT IDLE FOR A PERIOD OF TIME AND THEN STARTED MO…
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WHEN DRIVING CAR LOST ALL ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS, POWER STEERING, RADIO, LIGHTS, ETC. I HAD IT TOWED TO SERVICE AND THEY SAID NOTHING CAME UP IN DIAGNOSTICS OR ERROR CODES. I PICKED THE CAR UP AND WITHIN A COUPLE WEEKS IT STARTED HAPPENING AGAIN. BEFORE IT WAS ONLY HAPPENING WHEN I SAT IDLE FOR A PERIOD OF TIME AND THEN STARTED MOVING. NOW IT IS ALL THE TIME. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND LOST ALL POWER STEERING. IT IS VERY DANGEROUS. I'VE REACHED BACK OUT TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE AGAIN AND AM WAITING FOR A TIME AVAILABLE TO GO BACK IN. I CALLED FORD AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD NOTATE IT BUT COULD NOT PROVIDE ME A LOANER CAR WHILE CAR WAS BEING FIXED OR HELP ME ANY FURTHER AND JUST TO CALL THE DEALERSHIP. THE PROBLEM IS WHEN IT GOES IN TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY DON'T SEE A ERROR CODE AND THEY HAVE TROUBLE REPLICATING IT. IT HAS NOW HAPPENED TO ME WHEN IDLE, AT A STOP LIGHT, WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY, WHILE DRIVING DOWN A HILL AND WHILE DRIVING THROUGH A PARKING LOT. THERE IS NO PATTERN OR NO WAY TO TELL WHEN OR HOW IT HAPPENS. THE PHOTO WAS AT A INTERSECTION.
NHTSA ODI #10995127
500 miles · Apr 21, 2017
Electrical System
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY OBSERVED AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUMES THROUGHOUT THE VENTS. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THE ODOR WAS SO ABSORBENT THAT IT CAUSED HEADACHES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY OBSERVED AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUMES THROUGHOUT THE VENTS. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THE ODOR WAS SO ABSORBENT THAT IT CAUSED HEADACHES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 500.
NHTSA ODI #10979739
Official recalls
13Jul 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.
Feb 20, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links 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: Dealers will replace the toe links, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S08. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 21V537. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 25, 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.
Sep 11, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with power front seats. The seat frames may have sharp edges.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Occupants my contact the sharp edges when reaching between the power front seat and center console, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install protective tape on the exposed inside edge and tab of the power seat frames, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S29.
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.
Aug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Explorer, Taurus and Police Interceptor Utility and Sedan vehicles. The steering gear heat shield fasteners may corrode, allowing the heat shield to detach.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the heat shield detaches, the steering gear may overheat, increasing the steering effort required by the driver, especially at lower speeds, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers to inspect and replace the heat shield fasteners as needed, free of charge. The recall began on September 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S23.
May 22, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased 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 began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased 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 began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Seats
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to having inadequate welds. As such, these vehicles may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202a, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased 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 began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17C08.
Dec 22, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply tubes may leak oil on engine components.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the turbocharger oil supply tubes, free of charge. The recall began on January 31, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S46.
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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