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2017 Ford Explorer

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Explorer years

Owner complaints for the 2017 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

849 reports with mileage · 841 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 655 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 237 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Power Train. Review the 123 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

34 crash reports11 fire reports36 injury reports

Unknown Or Other complaints

369 reports
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10,000 miles · Jun 27, 2017
Unknown Or Other

WHEN I ACELLERATE FAST LIKE GETTING ONTO A BUSY HIGHWAY, A BURNT OR COTTON SMELL ENTERS THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT DESPITE THE A/C RECIRCULATION BEING ENGAGED. SMELL DISSAPATES AFTER A WHILE BUT ALWAYS HAPPENS UNDER THE PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED CONDITIONS. FORD DEALERSHIP HAS SEEN THE VEHICLE TWICE FOR THIS ISSUE AND IS SEEING IT AG…

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WHEN I ACELLERATE FAST LIKE GETTING ONTO A BUSY HIGHWAY, A BURNT OR COTTON SMELL ENTERS THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT DESPITE THE A/C RECIRCULATION BEING ENGAGED. SMELL DISSAPATES AFTER A WHILE BUT ALWAYS HAPPENS UNDER THE PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED CONDITIONS. FORD DEALERSHIP HAS SEEN THE VEHICLE TWICE FOR THIS ISSUE AND IS SEEING IT AGAIN TOMORROW FOR THE SAME THING. FIRST VISIT THEY REPLACED SOME MOULDING AND RESEALED STUFF IN THE REAR END. SECOND VISIT THEY REPLACED THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. NEITHER OF THESE ACTIONS RESOLVED THE ISSUE, I HAVE JUST LEARNED THAT A POLICE OFFICER IN THE US PASSED OUT DRIVING A FORD EXPLORER HAVING THE SAME ISSUES. I HAVE A WIFE AND TWO SMALL CHILDREN AND I FEAR FOR THEIR SAFETY GIVEN THE TOXIC FUMES CONTAINED IN AUTOMOTIVE EXHAUST.

NHTSA ODI #11001592

7,500 miles · Jun 26, 2017
Unknown Or Other

EVERY TIME IT'S PARKED FACING DOWN HILL AND IT RAINS THE SUNROOF/MOONROOF LEAKS. THE WATER COMES OUT OF THE UPPER CONSOLE ONCE YOU START DRIVING.

NHTSA ODI #11001362

3,000 miles · Jun 20, 2017
Unknown Or Other

WE CURRENTLY HAVE 4-2017 EXPLORERS THAT WERE PLACED IN SERVICE BETWEEN JANUARY 11 AND JANUARY 19, 2017. MILEAGES RANGE FROM 700 TO 3000 ON THE 4. AFTER OUR DRIVER REPORTING DIZZINESS, HEADACHES AND NAUSEA, THE FIRST VEHICLE WAS TAKEN OUT OF SERVICE ON FEBRUARY 20, 2017. THIS VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FORD FOR DIAGNOSIS ON MARCH 6, …

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WE CURRENTLY HAVE 4-2017 EXPLORERS THAT WERE PLACED IN SERVICE BETWEEN JANUARY 11 AND JANUARY 19, 2017. MILEAGES RANGE FROM 700 TO 3000 ON THE 4. AFTER OUR DRIVER REPORTING DIZZINESS, HEADACHES AND NAUSEA, THE FIRST VEHICLE WAS TAKEN OUT OF SERVICE ON FEBRUARY 20, 2017. THIS VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FORD FOR DIAGNOSIS ON MARCH 6, 2017 WHERE IT SAT UNTIL MAY 17, 2017 AFTER WE CONDUCTED PRELIMINARY AIR QUALITY TEST SHOWING TVOC'S COMING OUT OF THE VENTS WHEN THE AIR WAS IN RECIRCULATION MODE. THIS HAPPENED WHETHER THE VEHICLE WAS IDLING, IN CITY DRIVING AND HIGHWAY DRIVING. THE FORD DEALER COMPLETED ALL OF THEIR DIAGNOSTICS, UPDATED THE HVAC SYSTEM TO THE MOST CURRENT AND STATED THERE WAS NOTHING LEFT TO DO. ON MAY 17TH WE COMPLETED A MORE EXTENSIVE TEST AND SENT THAT TO AN INDEPENDENT LAB. AT THAT TIME ALL FOUR VEHICLES WERE MOVED TO A GARAGE FOR PASSIVE AIRING OUT AT FORDS DIRECTION. WE WERE TO LEAVE THEM A MINIMUM OF 10 DAYS AND THEN PLACE CHARCOAL FILTERS AND SILICA PACKS IN THE VEHICLES TO HELP ABSORB FUMES IF ANY WERE LEFT. WE COMPLETED A NEW AIR QUALITY TEST AND FOUND THAT IT WAS STILL SHOWING TVOC'S BEING PUT OUT OF THE VENTS AND WAS NOW SHOWING CARBON MONOXIDE. AFTER THESE RESULTS WERE PASSED ON WE WERE NOTIFIED BY FORD THAT THIS WAS NOT A NEW CAR ISSUE AND THAT IT WAS DEFINITELY A PROBLEM. WE WERE INSTRUCTED NOT TO DRIVE THE CARS IN RECIRCULATION MODE. I EXPLAINED THAT UNLESS YOU REMEMBER TO TURN THIS OFF IT IS AUTOMATICALLY ON AND I WAS THEN INSTRUCTED NOT TO ALLOW ANYONE TO DRIVE THEM. TODAY I RECEIVED AN EMAIL STATING THEY HAVE A "SOLUTION". THE ARE USING TSB 17-0044 WHICH I WILL ATTACH. I DO NOT BELIEVE THIS WILL FIX THE ISSUE AS MOST OF THE STEPS WERE COMPLETED WHEN IT WAS AT FORD THE FIRST TIME.

NHTSA ODI #11000247

50 miles · Jun 19, 2017
EngineUnknown Or Other

WHILE DRIVING EXHAUST FUMES ENTER CABIN WHILE EXCELERATING AND WHEN AIR CONDITIONER IS ON

NHTSA ODI #11000080

800 miles · May 26, 2017
Unknown Or Other

ROTTEN EGG FUMES FILLING INTERIOR OF VEHICLE. I HAVE OWNED IT FOR LESS THAN A MONTH. I HAVE TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP. THEY HAVE NOT DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS OF YET, BUT IT SEEMS TO FALL IN LINE WITH OTHER FORD EXPLORER ISSUES REGARDING EXHAUST LEAKING INTO CABIN

NHTSA ODI #10991873

5,000 miles · Apr 30, 2017
Unknown Or Other

TRAVELING DOWN INTERSTATE AND SUNROOF EXPLODED, SOUNDED LIKE A SHOT GUN BLAST. GLASS SHATTERED, PANEL WAS PULLED UPWARD AND NO DAMAGE TO THE CURTAIN.

NHTSA ODI #10981470

1,700 miles · Apr 21, 2017
EngineUnknown Or Other

ON JANUARY 27TH, 2017, MY WIFE AND I LEASED A NEW 2017 FORD EXPLORER. EVERY TIME WE OPERATE THE VEHICLE, WE GET EXTREMELY SICK (SOME SYMPTOMS WE EXPERIENCE ARE SORE THROAT, RUNNING NOSE, HEADACHES, AND NAUSEA THAT LAST HOURS AFTER EXITING THE VEHICLE). THIS OCCURS ABOUT 10-15 MINUTES WHILE DRIVING/OPERATING THE VEHICLE. THE HEA…

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ON JANUARY 27TH, 2017, MY WIFE AND I LEASED A NEW 2017 FORD EXPLORER. EVERY TIME WE OPERATE THE VEHICLE, WE GET EXTREMELY SICK (SOME SYMPTOMS WE EXPERIENCE ARE SORE THROAT, RUNNING NOSE, HEADACHES, AND NAUSEA THAT LAST HOURS AFTER EXITING THE VEHICLE). THIS OCCURS ABOUT 10-15 MINUTES WHILE DRIVING/OPERATING THE VEHICLE. THE HEATING SYSTEM WAS SET TO 75 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AND THE WINDOWS WERE CLOSED. AFTER WE FELT SICK WE DID SHUT OFF THE HEATING SYSTEM AND OPEN THE WINDOWS BUT THERE WAS A SLIGHT ODOR IN THE CABIN AND WE STILL FEEL SEVERAL ALIMENTS. DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE FOR MYSELF AND MY 6-MONTH-OLD DAUGHTER THAT WAS IN THE VEHICLE (THIS BEING MY MOST SIGNIFICANT CONCERN). FORD MOTOR CORP INSTALLED A NEW EXHAUST SYSTEM, REMOVED THE REAR BUMPER AND RESEALED ANY LEAKS, CHECKED CABIN PRESSURE AND TRIED TO RESEAL ANY CRACKS THAT MAY ALLOW EXHAUST TO RENTER THE CABIN. FORD STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS FIXED, AFTER BEING BROUGHT TO THEM FOR THE THIRD TIME (THEY SAID THEY FOUND MORE LEAKS AND RESEALED THEM), BUT REFUSED TO GIVE ME ANY DOCUMENTATION STATING THAT THE VEHICLE IS SAFE FOR MY FAMILY AND MYSELF TO BE IN. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN AND OUT OF SERVICE SEVERAL TIMES, A FORD SERVICE TECHNICIAN LOCATED AT SAYVILLE FORD TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE WITH ME AND CONFIRMED THE SAME AILMENTS. THE VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP FROM SERVICE AFTER FORD STATED IT WAS FIXED FOR A 3RD TIME AND WE WERE STILL GETTING SICK WHEN WE DROVE THE VEHICLE. WE CONTACTED FORD AGAIN AND WE ADVISED THEM OF THE SITUATION FOR A 4TH TIME AND THEIR RESPONSE WAS 'BY ITS VERY NATURE, NEW CAR SMELL IS DUE TO PLASTICS AND ADHESIVES IN THE VEHICLE. IT COULD BE AN IRRITANT TO SOME. UNFORTUNATELY, YOU MAY HAVE TO CONSIDER OTHER OPTIONS THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE TO YOU.'

NHTSA ODI #10979869

949 miles · Apr 19, 2017
Unknown Or Other

DRIVING HOME AFTER BUYING MY BRAND NEW 2017 FORD EXPLORER I STARTED SMELLING CAR EXHAUST. I THOUGHT IT WAS AS COMING FROM THE TRUCK IN FRONT OF ME. IT WASN'T. IT WAS COMING OUT OF THE AIR VENTS IN FRONT OF MY FACE AND I HAD THE AIR ON RECIRCULATE. IT SEAMS TO COME OUT MORE WHEN YOU ARE ACCELERATING OR PASSING CARS. AFTER DRI…

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DRIVING HOME AFTER BUYING MY BRAND NEW 2017 FORD EXPLORER I STARTED SMELLING CAR EXHAUST. I THOUGHT IT WAS AS COMING FROM THE TRUCK IN FRONT OF ME. IT WASN'T. IT WAS COMING OUT OF THE AIR VENTS IN FRONT OF MY FACE AND I HAD THE AIR ON RECIRCULATE. IT SEAMS TO COME OUT MORE WHEN YOU ARE ACCELERATING OR PASSING CARS. AFTER DRIVING THE CAR FOR TWO WEEKS I HAD TO DRIVE WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN OR I WOULD GET A HEADACHE. IT HAS LESS THAN A 1000 MILES ON IT AND ITS IN THE SHOP. THEY CALLED JUST BEFORE I FOUND THIS WEBSITE AND TOLD ME THAT THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG AND TO COME PICK IT UP. I TOLD THEM THAT I WOULD NOT RETAKE POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE UNTIL I SPOKE WITH AN ATTORNEY. THEY CALLED ME BACK AND SAID THEY WILL TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT IT. JUST NOW WAITING FOR FORD TO CALL BACK. I DRIVE MY FAMILY IN THIS CAR. DO D SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEM SELFS. TRADING THE HEALTH OF HUMANS OVER MONEY. THIS CAR IS SO NEW I HAVEN'T EVEN MADE A CAR PAYMENT YET.

NHTSA ODI #10979321

1,200 miles · Mar 24, 2017
Unknown Or Other

SAME EXACT PROBLEM WITH "ROTTEN EGGS" SMELL / EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CABIN AS FOUND IN THE FORD CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT CONCERNING 2011-2015 FORD EXPLORER MODELS. THE SMELL / EXHAUST FUMES COME THROUGH THE A/C VENTS IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS UNDER ANY MODERATE TO HEAVY ACCELERATION. THIS PROBLEM CAN BE DUP…

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SAME EXACT PROBLEM WITH "ROTTEN EGGS" SMELL / EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CABIN AS FOUND IN THE FORD CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT CONCERNING 2011-2015 FORD EXPLORER MODELS. THE SMELL / EXHAUST FUMES COME THROUGH THE A/C VENTS IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS UNDER ANY MODERATE TO HEAVY ACCELERATION. THIS PROBLEM CAN BE DUPLICATED EVERY SINGLE TIME. THE SMELL / EXHAUST FUMES ARE NAUSEATING AND POTENTIALLY TOXIC EXHAUST FUMES. THIS PUBLIC SAFETY HAZARD WILL BE REPORTED TO THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES INCLUDING BBB, AND ALL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS. THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AND CORRECTED BY FORD MOTOR CO. IT LOOKS LIKE FORD HAS NEVER CORRECTED PROBLEM BECAUSE IT STILL EXISTS IN THE 2017 MODELS.

NHTSA ODI #10968429

89 miles · Mar 24, 2017
Unknown Or Other

WHILE THE ENGINE IS STARTED THE ODOR AND AILMENTS ARE MUCH MORE PRESENT BUT THERE IS STILL A PRESENCE OF AN ODOR INSIDE THE CABIN AND AILMENTS STILL IMPACT DRIVER WHEN VEHICLE IS IN THE OFF POSITION. MULTIPLE DRIVERS PRESENTED SIMILAR ALIMENTS SUCH AS SEVERE HEADACHES THAT LASTED SEVERAL HOURS AFTER THE EXPOSURE, RUNNY NOSE, BLO…

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WHILE THE ENGINE IS STARTED THE ODOR AND AILMENTS ARE MUCH MORE PRESENT BUT THERE IS STILL A PRESENCE OF AN ODOR INSIDE THE CABIN AND AILMENTS STILL IMPACT DRIVER WHEN VEHICLE IS IN THE OFF POSITION. MULTIPLE DRIVERS PRESENTED SIMILAR ALIMENTS SUCH AS SEVERE HEADACHES THAT LASTED SEVERAL HOURS AFTER THE EXPOSURE, RUNNY NOSE, BLOODY NOSE AND LIGHT HEADED/DIZZINESS.VEHICLE HAS BEEN BROUGHT BACK AND FORTH TO FORD AND THEY REPLACED/REPROGRAMMED HVAC SYSTEM, REMOVED REAR BUMPER, REPLACED REAR BODY VENT, AND REAR TRIM. FORD ALSO REPLACED EXHAUST SYSTEM. FORD SERVICE CENTER HAS BEEN WAITING FOR FORD CORPORATE (HOTLINE) TO GET BACK TO THEM WITH OUR NEXT STEPS BECAUSE THE ODOR AND AILMENTS ARE STILL OCCURRING. WE HAVE CONTACTED FORD CORPORATION, FORD SERVICE CENTER AND FORD CREDIT AND NO ONE IS ABLE TO HELP ME OR RECTIFY THIS SITUATION. I AM EXTREMELY CONCERNED FOR MY HEALTH AS WELL AS MY WIFE AND OUR 6 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER DUE TO THIS ISSUE.

NHTSA ODI #10968257

Official recalls

13

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.

26V101000 · Suspension:rear

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.

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.

19V651000 · Seats

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.

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.

17V530000 · Steering

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.

17V332000 · Seats; Seats:front Assembly:recliner

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.

16V925000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/supercharger

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

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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