← New search

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.

About this comparison →

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

Wheels complaints

60 reports
Clear category filter
14,526 miles · May 11, 2018
Wheels

MY VEHICLE HAS ABOUT 19,000 MILES AND THE TIRES ARE ABOUT BALD. TOOK MY LOCAL DEALER AND THEY ARE TELLING ME THAT FORD WILL NOT ADDRESS THE ISSUE. THIS VEHICLE CANNOT GO THROUGH ANOTHER WINTER. MANY COMPLAINTS ON LINE ABOUT THIS SAME ISSUE WITH HANKOOK TIRES ON FORD EXPLORERS. HANKOOK OR FORD NEED TO STEP UP BEFORE MAJO…

Read full complaint

MY VEHICLE HAS ABOUT 19,000 MILES AND THE TIRES ARE ABOUT BALD. TOOK MY LOCAL DEALER AND THEY ARE TELLING ME THAT FORD WILL NOT ADDRESS THE ISSUE. THIS VEHICLE CANNOT GO THROUGH ANOTHER WINTER. MANY COMPLAINTS ON LINE ABOUT THIS SAME ISSUE WITH HANKOOK TIRES ON FORD EXPLORERS. HANKOOK OR FORD NEED TO STEP UP BEFORE MAJOR PROBLEMS OCCCUR. SHOULD NOT HAVE TO BE REPLACING TIRES THAT ARE RATED FOR 50,000 MILES WHEN THEY ARE UNDER 20,000. HAVE MAINTAINED THIS VEHICLE REGULARLY WITH CORRECT TIRE PRESSURE AND TIRE ROTATIONS. I HAVE BEEN ATTEMPTING TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE WITH MY DEALER FOR SEVERAL MONTHS WHEN I NOTICED UNUSUALLY EXTENSIVE WEAR.

NHTSA ODI #11093314

14,300 miles · Apr 3, 2018
Wheels

RE:HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 255/50R20 105H-ON 01/20/18, I WAS ADVISED BY A NEW FRIEND TO HAVE MY TIRES CHECKED OUT. HE NOTICED THE PIECES OF TIRE CHIPPING OFF AND WAS CONCERNED FOR MY SAFETY. THE FOLLOWING WEEK, I TOOK MY CAR TO OLIN MOTT, A LONGTIME & REPUTABLE AREA TIRE STORE. THEY INFORMED ME THAT ALL 4 TIRES WERE SHOWING SI…

Read full complaint

RE:HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 255/50R20 105H-ON 01/20/18, I WAS ADVISED BY A NEW FRIEND TO HAVE MY TIRES CHECKED OUT. HE NOTICED THE PIECES OF TIRE CHIPPING OFF AND WAS CONCERNED FOR MY SAFETY. THE FOLLOWING WEEK, I TOOK MY CAR TO OLIN MOTT, A LONGTIME & REPUTABLE AREA TIRE STORE. THEY INFORMED ME THAT ALL 4 TIRES WERE SHOWING SIGNS OF "PEELING" & RECOMMENDED THAT I TAKE MY CAR BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I HAD FIRST PURCHASED IT. ON 01/26/18 I TOOK MY CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THEM LOOKED AT. THE DEALERSHIP CAME BACK & SAID THAT THEY'D HAVE TO FILE A COMPLAINT W/ THE TIRE MANUFACTURER & THEY'D TAKE PICTURES OF ALL 4 TIRES & WOULD LET ME KNOW WHAT THE TIRE MANUFACTURER SAID NEEDED TO BE DONE. 6 DAYS LATER, THE DEALERSHIP CALLS STATING THAT HANKOOK TIRES ADVISED THAT ALL 4 TIRES NEED TO BE REPLACED & THAT THE'DD OFFER A 50% PRORATA PRICE BASIS. MY VEHICLE MANUFACTURE STICKER DATE IS 04/17. I PURCHASED MY CAR ON JUNE 14, 2017 BRAND NEW. LESS THAN 8 MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP, I NOW HAVE TO REPLACE ALL 4 TIRES. AS OF 01/26/18, I HAD APPROX 14,300 MILES. NOW AT 16,400 MILES, THEY ARE PEELING AND NOW CHUNKS ARE NOW COMING OUT OF ALL 4 TIRES. I HAVE AN APPT IN 05/12/18 TO PURCHASE 4 NEW TIRES. BC AFTER PAYING $40,000 LESS THAN A YEAR AGO, I HAVE TO SAVE THE MONEY. THIS TIRE HAS NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ALL OVER THE USA. FORD WON'T TAKE RESPONSIBILITY EVEN THOUGH THEY CONTRACTED W/ HANKOOK TIRES IN 2011 FOR HANKOOK TO BE THE OFFICIAL FITMENT TIRE FOR THE FORD EXPLORER. ALSO, FORD/LINCOLN EXTENDED THEIR CONTRACT RECENTLY. OTHER BRANDS SUCH AS HYAUNDI HAVE RECENTLY CANCELLED THEIR PARTNERSHIP W/ HANKOOK. IF SOMETHING IS NOT DONE ABOUT THESE TIRES, IT'S MY FEAR THAT SOMEONE IS GOING TO BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED. FORD SHOULD ALSO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY BC THEY PUT THE TIRES ON THEIR NEW VEHICLES THEY WANT TO SELL & DO SELL. LOCATION: TAMPA, FL. PLEASE HELP US, THE CONSUMERS. THANKS!

NHTSA ODI #11082652

10,000 miles · Apr 2, 2018
Wheels

FRONT TIRES HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 255/50R20 ARE SHREDDING AND CHIPPING AT 10K MILES

NHTSA ODI #11082455

23,000 miles · Feb 24, 2018
TiresWheels

I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR A OIL CHANGE AND MY DEALER CALLED TO INFORM ME I NEEDED TO REPLACE ALL MY TIRES AS THE TREADS WERE ALL IN THE UNSAFE AREA. THE TIRES ARE: HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBEL 2 SIZE 255/50R20 DOT 5MNC 1A H 1316 THESE TIRES HAVE 23,000 MILES ON THEM AND CAME OEM ON 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE TIRE TREAD IS GONE. PREMATURE WE…

Read full complaint

I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR A OIL CHANGE AND MY DEALER CALLED TO INFORM ME I NEEDED TO REPLACE ALL MY TIRES AS THE TREADS WERE ALL IN THE UNSAFE AREA. THE TIRES ARE: HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBEL 2 SIZE 255/50R20 DOT 5MNC 1A H 1316 THESE TIRES HAVE 23,000 MILES ON THEM AND CAME OEM ON 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE TIRE TREAD IS GONE. PREMATURE WEAR. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AS OTHERS ARE REPORTING THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM ON THE SAME VEHICLE. SEE FORD BULLITON SSM 46905

NHTSA ODI #11074697

28,337 miles · Jan 24, 2018
Wheels

WENT TO DEALER FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND DEALER INDICATED I NEED IMMEDIATE TIRE REPLACEMENT OF ALL 4 TIRES BECAUSE THE TREAD IS FLAKING OFF! THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE SERVICE BAY DRIVE. THERE ARE VISIBLE SIGNS OF TREAD SEPARATIONS AND GOUGES IN THE TIRES. MY EXPLORER HAS 28K MILES ON IT AND THE MANUFACTURER WARRANTY SAYS 5…

Read full complaint

WENT TO DEALER FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND DEALER INDICATED I NEED IMMEDIATE TIRE REPLACEMENT OF ALL 4 TIRES BECAUSE THE TREAD IS FLAKING OFF! THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE SERVICE BAY DRIVE. THERE ARE VISIBLE SIGNS OF TREAD SEPARATIONS AND GOUGES IN THE TIRES. MY EXPLORER HAS 28K MILES ON IT AND THE MANUFACTURER WARRANTY SAYS 50K. I BELIEVE THIS IS A TIRE DEFECT. I HAVE AN EXCELLENT SERVICE RECORD ON MY VEHICLE AND THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR FOR ANY TIRES. THIS EXPLORER WAS PURCHASED NEW FROM THE DEALER WITH THESE TIRES. I WAS A PREVIOUS OWNER OF A 2013 EXPLORER (ALSO PURCHASED NEW) AND THE TIRES LASTED 60K. AFTER RESEARCHING, THERE SEEM TO BE A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS FROM FORD EXPLORER OWNERS ABOUT THIS SAME ISSUE. PLEASE INVESTIGATE.

NHTSA ODI #11064672

9,300 miles · Jan 16, 2018
Wheels

HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 TIRES HAVE LARGE CHUNKS COMING OFF THE TREAD AT 9,300 MILES (REPORTED TO DEALER); CONDITION GOT WORSE AT 12,000MILES (REPORTED TO DEALERSHIP AGAIN); CONDITION CONTINUES TO GET WORSE AT 14,000 MILES (CAR LEFT AT DEALERSHIP FOR TIRES TO BE SENT TO HANKOOK)

NHTSA ODI #11063080

8,115 miles · Nov 27, 2017
Wheels

IT HAS BEEN JUST OVER 1 YEAR DRIVING THIS VEHICLE, 8115 MILES CURRENTLY. A FEW DAYS AGO WHILE WALKING AROUND MY CAR, I NOTICED CHIPPING, CRACKING, & PEELING AWAY OF THE TREAD ON MY TIRES. IT DOES NOT LOOK NORMAL AND NOT TOO SURE IF IT IS SAFE TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE. I TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER WHERE WE LEASED IT FROM AND TH…

Read full complaint

IT HAS BEEN JUST OVER 1 YEAR DRIVING THIS VEHICLE, 8115 MILES CURRENTLY. A FEW DAYS AGO WHILE WALKING AROUND MY CAR, I NOTICED CHIPPING, CRACKING, & PEELING AWAY OF THE TREAD ON MY TIRES. IT DOES NOT LOOK NORMAL AND NOT TOO SURE IF IT IS SAFE TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE. I TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER WHERE WE LEASED IT FROM AND THEY CLAIMED THAT IT IS NORMAL TIRE WEAR FOR HAWAII ROADS. I DONT THINK SO. I HAVE OWNED SEVERAL VEHICLES OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS AND HAVE NEVER SEEN THIS BEFORE. THE VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN OFF-ROAD, PULLED A HEAVY LOAD, OR DRIVEN AGGRESSIVELY, AND IS IN IMMACULATE CONDITION OTHERWISE. THE VEHICLE WAS JUST IN FOR SERVICE JUST OVER 1 MONTH AGO SO I AM NOT SURE HOW THIS WAS NOT CAUGHT IN THE MULTI-POINT INSPECTION OR THE TIRE ROTATION THEY SUPPOSEDLY DID.

NHTSA ODI #11048718

16,940 miles · Nov 10, 2017
Wheels

HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBEL 2 SIZE 255/50R20 105H DOT 5MNC 1A H 1916 THESE TIRES HAVE 16,940 MILES (13 MONTHS SINCE BOUGHT IT) ON THEM AND CAME OEM ON 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE TIRE TREAD IS PEELING AND SHREDDING. PREMATURE WEAR. I TOOK IT TO FORD AND THEY SAID THAT A SERVICE MESSAGE (SSM 46905) RELATIVE TO 2015-2018 EXPLORER- HANKOOK…

Read full complaint

HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBEL 2 SIZE 255/50R20 105H DOT 5MNC 1A H 1916 THESE TIRES HAVE 16,940 MILES (13 MONTHS SINCE BOUGHT IT) ON THEM AND CAME OEM ON 2017 FORD EXPLORER. THE TIRE TREAD IS PEELING AND SHREDDING. PREMATURE WEAR. I TOOK IT TO FORD AND THEY SAID THAT A SERVICE MESSAGE (SSM 46905) RELATIVE TO 2015-2018 EXPLORER- HANKOOK TIRES- CHIPPING, CUTTING AND/OR UNUSUAL/ACCELERATED TREAD WEAR. THE MESSAGE STATES " SOME 2015-2018 EXPLORER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HANKOOK BRAND TIRES MAY EXHIBIT CHIPPING,CUTTING AND/OR UNUSUAL OR EVEN ACCELERATED TREAD WEAR.IF THE SIZE WALL IS MARKED AS:255/50R20 105H VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2CONTACT HANKOOK TECHNICAL SERVICES". THE DEALER DID AND HANKOOK KNOWS ABOUT THE ISSUE BUT ONLY OFFERED A 50% DISCOUNT ON NEW TIRES AS A CORRECTIVE MEASURE. SO BASICALLY THEY SOLD BAD TIRES AN THE CUSTOMER HAS TO PAY TO FIX THE PROBLEM.

NHTSA ODI #11045093

12,200 miles · Oct 25, 2017
Wheels

THE SUBJECT VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 12,200 MILES ON OEM SUPPLIED HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES. SIZE 255/50R20. TREAD IS PEELING OFF AND PREMATURE WEAR. 50K MILE RATED TIRE IS AT 5/32 @ APPROX. 12200 MILES WITH SCHEDULED ROTATION PERFORMED. FORD DEALER AND HANKOOK REP HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED HANKOOK IS HAVING A PROBLEM WITH TH…

Read full complaint

THE SUBJECT VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 12,200 MILES ON OEM SUPPLIED HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES. SIZE 255/50R20. TREAD IS PEELING OFF AND PREMATURE WEAR. 50K MILE RATED TIRE IS AT 5/32 @ APPROX. 12200 MILES WITH SCHEDULED ROTATION PERFORMED. FORD DEALER AND HANKOOK REP HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED HANKOOK IS HAVING A PROBLEM WITH THESE TIRES ON THIS VEHICLE. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THE SAFETY OF THESE TIRES. SEE ATTACHED PHOTO OF PEELED TREAD.

NHTSA ODI #11039772

4,186 miles · Feb 23, 2017
Wheels

2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EQUIPPED WITH HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES SIZE 255/50 R20. THE DOT CODE ON THE TIRES IS 5MNC 1AH 0716. THE VEHICLE ODOMETER SHOWS 4,186 MILES. ON FEBRUARY 19, 2017 WHILE DRIVING ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET AT LESS THAN 25MPH THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SUFFERED A "CATASTROPHIC" SIDEWALL FAILURE RESUL…

Read full complaint

2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EQUIPPED WITH HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES SIZE 255/50 R20. THE DOT CODE ON THE TIRES IS 5MNC 1AH 0716. THE VEHICLE ODOMETER SHOWS 4,186 MILES. ON FEBRUARY 19, 2017 WHILE DRIVING ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET AT LESS THAN 25MPH THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SUFFERED A "CATASTROPHIC" SIDEWALL FAILURE RESULTING IN THE TIRE GOING COMPLETELY FLAT IN LESS THAT 1 MINUTE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON THE INSIDE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE. (THIS SEEMS TO BE THE SAME SYMPTOM FOR WHICH HANKOOK ISSUED AN EARLIER - JAN 2016 - RECALL.) ALL FOUR TIRES WERE PROPERLY INFLATED AS INDICATED BY THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM. TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE THE TIRE HAD NEVER STRUCK AN OBJECT THAT COULD HAVE WEAKENED THE SIDEWALL.

NHTSA ODI #10956614

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

Go deeper into Ford Explorer problems