NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
76 reportsClear category filter25,000 miles · Sep 7, 2019
Steering
INTERMITTENT STEERING BINDING CONDITION AT SLOW TURNS MAINLY DURING HOT WEATHER. THIS BINDING ISSUE WAS DIFFICULT TO RECREATE AND EVENTUALLY THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO CREATE THIS AFTER A LENGTHY (30 MINUTE) ROAD TEST IN 80+ DEGREE WEATHER. THE BINDING ISSUE WAS A RESULT OF AN INTERNAL STEERING GEAR FAILURE. THE PART # HB5Z-3504-Z W…
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INTERMITTENT STEERING BINDING CONDITION AT SLOW TURNS MAINLY DURING HOT WEATHER. THIS BINDING ISSUE WAS DIFFICULT TO RECREATE AND EVENTUALLY THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO CREATE THIS AFTER A LENGTHY (30 MINUTE) ROAD TEST IN 80+ DEGREE WEATHER. THE BINDING ISSUE WAS A RESULT OF AN INTERNAL STEERING GEAR FAILURE. THE PART # HB5Z-3504-Z WAS FINALLY REPLACED THIS YEAR AFTER WE HAD THE VEHICLE IN TO THE DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE LATE 2017 WHEN THE VEHICLE HAD APPROXIMATELY 25,000 MILES ON IT. VEHICLE NOW HAS 67,000 MILES. THE BINDING ISSUE OCCURRED AT SPEEDS RANGING MAINLY BETWEEN 40 MPH TO 75 MPH WITH AND WITHOUT DRIVING ASSISTANCE FEATURES ENABLED. BINDING ISSUE OCCURRED BOTH TO THE LEFT AND RIGHT DIRECTIONS ON GRADUAL TURNS OR WHEN CHANGING LANES ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGHER SPEEDS. THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD STICK IN THE TURNED POSITION AND NOT RETURN TO THE CENTER ON ITS OWN UNLESS TUGGED OUT OF WHAT FELT LIKE A DETENT (NOTCH). THIS TOOK A LONG TIME TO GET IT FIXED BECAUSE THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT WORK ON THE CAR SINCE THEY COULD NOT RE-CREATE THE PROBLEM ON SHORT TEST DRIVES. THE INTERMITTENT NATURE OF THE STEERING ISSUE AND NEED FOR LONGER DRIVES AND HOT WEATHER CONDITIONS MADE IT DIFFICULT TO RECREATE.
NHTSA ODI #11253785
15,000 miles · Aug 2, 2019
Steering
CLICKING NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING LEFT OR RIGHT.I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT HE HEARD THE SAME NOISE FROM THE SAME MODEL AND YEAR VEHICLE. THIS NEEDS MORE ANALYSIS AS THIS MAY BE A SAFETY CONCERN IF THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKS
NHTSA ODI #11241270
36,000 miles · Jul 25, 2019
Steering
AT AROUND 35,800 MILES, I NOTICED A SLIGHT JERK OF THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN GOING AROUND CURVES. I WAS GOING 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY FOR A QUICK AFTERNOON TRIP OUT OF TOWN. ON THE WAY HOME (36,000 MILES) IT WAS DOING THIS EVEN WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT. I HAD MY HUSBAND DRIVE IT WHEN I GOT BACK, AND THAT'S WHEN WE DECIDED TO GET IT TO T…
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AT AROUND 35,800 MILES, I NOTICED A SLIGHT JERK OF THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN GOING AROUND CURVES. I WAS GOING 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY FOR A QUICK AFTERNOON TRIP OUT OF TOWN. ON THE WAY HOME (36,000 MILES) IT WAS DOING THIS EVEN WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT. I HAD MY HUSBAND DRIVE IT WHEN I GOT BACK, AND THAT'S WHEN WE DECIDED TO GET IT TO THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP (45 MILES AWAY). THE WHOLE RACK AND PINION STEERING COLUMN WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I WAS WITHOUT MY VEHICLE FOR OVER A MONTH WHILE FORD GAVE US THE RUNAROUND ON WHETHER OR NOT IT WOULD BE COVERED SINCE WE WERE ALMOST 200 MILES OUT OF WARRANTY BY THE TIME THE VEHICLE WAS AT THEIR FACILITY. WHEN DRIVING IT THERE GOING ABOUT 40MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT ENTIRELY AND THREW THE CAR CLEAR ACROSS THE ROAD. THANKFULLY IT WENT TO THE RIGHT AND INTO THE DITCH, BECAUSE HAD IT JERKED TO THE LEFT, WE'D PROBABLY BE DEAD. IT JERKED ALL OVER THE ROAD THE WHOLE WAY TO THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA ODI #11234676
28,526 miles · Jun 28, 2019
Air BagsSteeringSuspension
VEHICLE HAS AN NHTSA RECALL NOTICE#:19V435 AND A FORD ISSUED RECALL#:19S17 WHICH INDICATES AS FOLLOWS: RECALL DESCRIPTION: REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK REPLACEMENT. RISK TO SAFETY: A FRACTURE OF A REAR TOE LINK SIGNIFICANTLY DIMINISHES STEERING CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH! I HAVE CONTACTED 3 DIFFERENT DEALS IN MY AR…
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VEHICLE HAS AN NHTSA RECALL NOTICE#:19V435 AND A FORD ISSUED RECALL#:19S17 WHICH INDICATES AS FOLLOWS: RECALL DESCRIPTION: REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK REPLACEMENT. RISK TO SAFETY: A FRACTURE OF A REAR TOE LINK SIGNIFICANTLY DIMINISHES STEERING CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH! I HAVE CONTACTED 3 DIFFERENT DEALS IN MY AREA (ECINO, CA, 91316) ALL SAID THAT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE. IN ADDITION, ON THURSDAY, JUNE 27TH, 2019 I HAVE CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY TO SEE IF THE ISSUE CAN BE RESOLVED BUT I GOT THE SAME ANSWER. THEY SAID I HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AND THEY ARE CURRENTLY BACK ORDERED WITH NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR THE ISSUE WITH THE VEHICLE CAN BE RESOLVED. THEY HAVE ASKED ME IF I WOULD LIKE FORD MOTOR COMPANY TO "LEMON" THE VEHICLE AND BUY IT BACK, I REPLIED: "ABSOLUTELY YES". THEY HAVE OPENED A CASE#: [XXX] I AM SERIOUSLY WORRIED FOR MY LIFE WHEN DRIVING THE FORD EXPLORER. I SUFFER FROM UNDERSTEERING WHENEVER I ATTEMPT A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN. AT SPEED OVER 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WILL START SHAKING GIVING ME A SENSE OF ALMOST NO GRIP TO THE ROAD. IN ADDITION, I CONSTANTLY HAVE THE "FRONT AIRBAG" LIGHT ON (SEE PICTURE ATTACHED) THE DASHBOARD, BOTH WHEN VEHICLE IS IN MOTION & STATIONARY. THIS ISSUE HAPPENED BEFORE AND I TOOK THE CAR TO A FORD DEALER TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE (THE SERVICE TECH SAID THAT THE SENSOR WAS MALFUNCTIONED AND IN A CASE OF AN ACCIDENT, "FRONT AIRBAG" MIGHT NOT DEPLOY!!! THIS IS ABSOLUTELY ABSURD. I HERE BY CERTIFIE THAT MY VEHICLE IS SERVICED ON TIME (SEE PICTURE ATTACHED) AND CURRENTLY HAS 29,492 MILES ON IT (SEE PICTURE ATTACHED). I AM NOT SURE WHAT IS NHTSA PART IN ALL OF THIS, BUT IF YOU CAN HELP ME DEAL WITH FORD MOTOR COMPANY IN RESOLVING THESE ISSUES AND GET RID OF THIS VEHICLE, L WILL BE VERY PLEASED AND APPRECIATIVE. RESPECTFULLY, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT
NHTSA ODI #11223098
49,000 miles · Jun 21, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringUnknown Or Other
I WAS STUCK AT A STANDSTILL IN TRAFFIC ON A CITY HIGHWAY WITH MY FAMILY ON FATHER'S DAY WHEN THE DASH LIT UP WITH MULTIPLE WARNINGS SUCH AS "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY," "SERVICE ADVANCETRAC," "STABILITY CONTROL OFF," AND "HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE." I WAS NOT MOVING AND COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT HAPPENED. NO ONE WAS …
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I WAS STUCK AT A STANDSTILL IN TRAFFIC ON A CITY HIGHWAY WITH MY FAMILY ON FATHER'S DAY WHEN THE DASH LIT UP WITH MULTIPLE WARNINGS SUCH AS "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY," "SERVICE ADVANCETRAC," "STABILITY CONTROL OFF," AND "HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE." I WAS NOT MOVING AND COULD NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT HAPPENED. NO ONE WAS INJURED AND THE VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT OVERHEATING. ROADSIDE BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A NEARBY DEALER. EVENTUALLY, TWO DAYS LATER, THE COMPUTER SAID WE NEEDED A NEW STEERING COLUMN (I THOUGHT A STEERING COLUMN SHOULD LAST THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE...). THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS, NO LEAKS, AND NO STRANGE NOISES. OF COURSE, I WAS PAST MY WARRANTY. PRETTY HEFTY BILL. THERE IS AN NEW RECALL FOR A REAR SUSPENSION PROBLEM THAT WAS ISSUED JUST DAYS EARLIER.
NHTSA ODI #11221629
58,000 miles · Jun 19, 2019
SteeringSuspension
REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK RECALL: DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MILES/HR WITH MY HUSBAND BEHIND THE WHEEL AND MYSELF AND OUR 3 CHILDREN IN THIS FAMILY VEHICLE, THIS REAR SUSPENSION BROKE. WE LIVE IN RURAL SALINE COUNTY AND DRIVE GRAVEL DAILY. THE INCIDENT HAPPENED WHILE ENTERING A BRIDGE ON A HIGHWAY. WE LOST ALMOST COMPLETE CONTROL …
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REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK RECALL: DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MILES/HR WITH MY HUSBAND BEHIND THE WHEEL AND MYSELF AND OUR 3 CHILDREN IN THIS FAMILY VEHICLE, THIS REAR SUSPENSION BROKE. WE LIVE IN RURAL SALINE COUNTY AND DRIVE GRAVEL DAILY. THE INCIDENT HAPPENED WHILE ENTERING A BRIDGE ON A HIGHWAY. WE LOST ALMOST COMPLETE CONTROL OF STEERING REQUIRING THE DRIVER TO COMPLETELY TURN THE WHEEL AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE IN ONE DIRECTION AND TURN BACK AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE IN THE OTHER SWERVING AND FORCEFULLY CIRCLING BACK AND FORTH ON A BRIDGE UNTIL THE VEHICLE FINALLY CAME TO A STOP FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD. GOD' GRACE ALONE SAVED US FROM GOING OVER THE BRIDGE, OR HITTING ONCOMING TRAFFIC OR HAVING INJURIES, POTENTIALLY FATAL AT THIS RATE OF SPEED AND LOCATION. I AM DISSATISFIED IN THE NOTIFICATION OF RECALL INFORMATION FROM THE DEALER AND NHTSA. I ONLY FOUND OUT WHAT MUST HAVE HAPPENED AFTER GOOGLING 'FORD EXPLORER' AND SEEING A NEWS POST 2 DAYS EARLIER. THE NOTIFICATION OF THE RECALL WILL COME MUCH TOO LATE IN THE MAIL IN THE NEXT COUPLE WEEKS. TOO LATE! THERE HAS GOT TO BE A BETTER, FAST WAY OF NOTIFYING DRIVER SO THE RECALL PARTS MORE TIMELY. WE HAVE THE TECHNOLOGY. PUT YOUR FAMILY IN THIS SITUATION AND SAY THIS WAY OF NOTIFYING THE CONSUMER IS ADEQUATE!
NHTSA ODI #11221178
44,200 miles · Jun 15, 2019
Steering
DRIVING ONE DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND POWER STEERING LOCKED UP BRIEFLY INTERMITTENTLY, WITH THE ERROR MESSAGE. TURNED CAR OFF AND ON AGAIN AND WAS FINE, LATER ON IN THE DAY POWER STEERING LOCKED UP FOR GOOD AND THE ERROR MESSAGE IS ALWAYS THERE.
NHTSA ODI #11220363
40,000 miles · May 6, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING SEIZED AND THE "STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE REQUIRED" INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CROSSROADS FORD OF PRINCE GEORGE (877-331-9405, LOCATED AT 4500 WHITEHILL BLVD, PRINCE GEORGE, VA 23875) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCL…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING SEIZED AND THE "STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE REQUIRED" INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CROSSROADS FORD OF PRINCE GEORGE (877-331-9405, LOCATED AT 4500 WHITEHILL BLVD, PRINCE GEORGE, VA 23875) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS OFFERED A DISCOUNT OF $1,082 TOWARDS THE REPAIR COST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000.
NHTSA ODI #11205823
53,000 miles · Mar 25, 2019
Steering
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH MY STEERING WHEEL SEIZED COMPLETELY, A BELL STARTED RINGING, AND AN INDICATOR LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD STARTED FLASHING THAT STEERING FAILED. PLEASE PARK SAFELY. THERE WAS NO WARNING AND MY CAR HAD BEEN WORKING PERFECTLY BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. THIS CAUSED SERIOUS THREAT OF COLLISION AND GRAVE BODILY DAMAGE/DEATH…
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WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH MY STEERING WHEEL SEIZED COMPLETELY, A BELL STARTED RINGING, AND AN INDICATOR LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD STARTED FLASHING THAT STEERING FAILED. PLEASE PARK SAFELY. THERE WAS NO WARNING AND MY CAR HAD BEEN WORKING PERFECTLY BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. THIS CAUSED SERIOUS THREAT OF COLLISION AND GRAVE BODILY DAMAGE/DEATH.
NHTSA ODI #11191273
28,000 miles · Jan 17, 2019
Steering
LOSS OF POWER ASSISTED STEERING WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION, AND DURING TURNING
NHTSA ODI #11170575
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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