NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Power Train complaints
64 reportsClear category filter126,000 miles · Nov 2, 2016
EnginePower Train
HAVE EXTENSIVE ENGINE DAMAGE DUE TO WATER PUMP FAILURE WITH NO WARNING! I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE DOWN A MAIN HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE "ENGINE COOLANT OVERTEMP" CAME ON THEN "LOW OIL PRESSURE" AND MY VEHICLE SHUT DOWN! I COULDN'T DRIVE THE VEHICLE. LUCKILY I DRIFTED TO SIDE OF THE ROAD SO THAT MY CAR COULD BE TOWED WITHOUT…
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HAVE EXTENSIVE ENGINE DAMAGE DUE TO WATER PUMP FAILURE WITH NO WARNING! I WAS DRIVING MY VEHICLE DOWN A MAIN HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE "ENGINE COOLANT OVERTEMP" CAME ON THEN "LOW OIL PRESSURE" AND MY VEHICLE SHUT DOWN! I COULDN'T DRIVE THE VEHICLE. LUCKILY I DRIFTED TO SIDE OF THE ROAD SO THAT MY CAR COULD BE TOWED WITHOUT HAVING AN ACCIDENT! SHOP DETERMINED WATER PUMP FAILURE AND WATER LEAKED INTO MY ENGINE POOR ENGINE DESIGN ON FORDS PART) AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE WITH NO WARNING! NO ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON OR ANYTHING. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS. THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SAME SITUATION. I CALLED FORD TO COMPLAIN BUT ALL THEY DID WAS TAKE DOWN MY COMPLIANT. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE I WAS DRIVING IN TRAFFIC AND THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. THE WHOLE CAR JUST SHUT DOWN! *TR
NHTSA ODI #10923775
3,500 miles · Oct 13, 2016
Power Train
DRIVING AT SPEED LIGHT ON THE STREET AT 35-40 MILES AND ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE SPEED GOES DOWN TO ABOUT 5MILES AND STARTS TO SHAKE AND A WRENCH LIGHT APPEARS ON THE DASH BOARD AND I HAVE TO PULL OVER AND TURN OF THE CAR WAIT ABOUT 5-10 MINS TURN IT BACK ON AND WORKS PERFECTLY NORMAL ABOUT, THIS HAS HAPPEND ONCE EVERY WEEK FOR THE…
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DRIVING AT SPEED LIGHT ON THE STREET AT 35-40 MILES AND ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE SPEED GOES DOWN TO ABOUT 5MILES AND STARTS TO SHAKE AND A WRENCH LIGHT APPEARS ON THE DASH BOARD AND I HAVE TO PULL OVER AND TURN OF THE CAR WAIT ABOUT 5-10 MINS TURN IT BACK ON AND WORKS PERFECTLY NORMAL ABOUT, THIS HAS HAPPEND ONCE EVERY WEEK FOR THE PAST 4 WEEKS, LAST WEEK WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR SEVERAL RECALLS THE CAR HAD, AND TOKD THEM ABOUT IT BUT THEY DIDNT SAY ANYTHING. THEIRS NEED TO BE A RECAL ON THIS BECAUSE THIS IS A SERIOUS DANGEROUS SITUATION
NHTSA ODI #10915679
70,000 miles · Sep 23, 2016
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE FELT AS IF THE TRANSMISSION ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT GEARS INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.
NHTSA ODI #10908909
83,000 miles · Jul 8, 2016
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AND THE SERVICE VEHICLE SOON WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DOWNSHIFT. THE FAILURE RECURRED FOUR TIMES.…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AND THE SERVICE VEHICLE SOON WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO DOWNSHIFT. THE FAILURE RECURRED FOUR TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.
NHTSA ODI #10883536
38,000 miles · Jun 25, 2016
EnginePower Train
I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE PULLING A KAYAK TRAILER WITH ONE KAYAK ON IT, WENT ABOUT A HALF BLOCK AND THE ENGINE SLOWED DOWN AND THE FORD EXPLORER WOULD HARDLY MOVE. WAS ABLE TO GO AROUND THE BLOCK AND MAKE IT BACK TO MY DRIVEWAY. AFTER STOPPING AND RESTARTING THE PROBLEM WAS GONE. I HAD THE FORD EXPLORER TOWED TO THE DEALER WERE I …
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I WAS LEAVING MY HOUSE PULLING A KAYAK TRAILER WITH ONE KAYAK ON IT, WENT ABOUT A HALF BLOCK AND THE ENGINE SLOWED DOWN AND THE FORD EXPLORER WOULD HARDLY MOVE. WAS ABLE TO GO AROUND THE BLOCK AND MAKE IT BACK TO MY DRIVEWAY. AFTER STOPPING AND RESTARTING THE PROBLEM WAS GONE. I HAD THE FORD EXPLORER TOWED TO THE DEALER WERE I BOUGHT IT, THEY CHECKED IT AND SAID IT DIDN'T SHOW A ERROR CODE ON THE COMPUTER AND DROVE IT TWICE AND COULD NOT MAKE IT HAPPEN SO THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. I RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM AND FOUND OUT IT IS THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY AND THEY HAVE CHANGED OVER ONE MILLION OF THEM. BOTH YOU AND FORD ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT A RECALL WAS NEVER ISSUED. ALSO ONCE THIS HAPPENS IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN UNTIL THE PROBLEM IS FIXED. I HAVE A VEHICLE WITH 38 THOUSAND MILES ON IT THAT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND CANNOT GET IT FIXED.
NHTSA ODI #10876534
94,000 miles · Nov 1, 2015
Power TrainUnknown Or Other
WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH GOING STRAIGHT AHEAD, THE CAR SUDDENLY SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SKID TO A STOP, THIS LOCKED UP THE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS SKIDDING ON THE PAVEMENT. THERE WAS TRANSMISSION FLUID ON THE GROUND WHEN IT WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. ALSO THE REAR VIEW CAMERA CAME ON AT THE SAME TIME SO THE …
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WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH GOING STRAIGHT AHEAD, THE CAR SUDDENLY SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SKID TO A STOP, THIS LOCKED UP THE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS SKIDDING ON THE PAVEMENT. THERE WAS TRANSMISSION FLUID ON THE GROUND WHEN IT WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. ALSO THE REAR VIEW CAMERA CAME ON AT THE SAME TIME SO THE OCCUPANTS COULD SEE THE CAR BEHIND THEM, ALSO INDICATING THE CAR WAS IN REVERSE. THE TRANSMISSION LEVER/HANDLE WAS STILL IN DRIVE. I BELIEVE THIS WAS SOME TYPE OF ELECTRONIC MALFUNCTION, BUT NO WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON, AND ON THE COMPUTERIZED VEHICLE CHECK IT INDICATED NO MALFUNCTIONS, TEMPORARILY THE HILL ASSIST LIGHT CAME ON BUT WENT OUT SHORTLY BEFORE THE CAR WAS TOWED. THE CAR COULD NOT BE SHIFTED INTO ANY GEAR, NOR MOVE FORWARD OR BACKWARDS. THE FRONT WHEELS WERE LOCKED AND SKIDDING AS IT WENT ONTO THE TOW TRUCK. THE REAR WHEELS MOVED AT THIS POINT AND IT IS A FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #10787559
65,000 miles · Oct 13, 2015
Electrical SystemPower Train
FAULTY ELECTRICAL SWITCH WITHIN THE GEAR SHIFTER KNOB PERIODICALLY INDICATES THAT CAR IS NOT IN "PARK" WHEN THE CAR IS ACTUALLY IN PARK. THIS IS WORRISOME SINCE YOU ARE ALWAYS AFRAID YOUR CAR WILL ROLL AWAY. THIS PROBLEM OCCURS PERIODICALLY FOR ME AND IS REMEDIED TEMPORARILY BY FRANTICALLY "CLICKING" THE GEAR SHIFTER SWITCH UN…
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FAULTY ELECTRICAL SWITCH WITHIN THE GEAR SHIFTER KNOB PERIODICALLY INDICATES THAT CAR IS NOT IN "PARK" WHEN THE CAR IS ACTUALLY IN PARK. THIS IS WORRISOME SINCE YOU ARE ALWAYS AFRAID YOUR CAR WILL ROLL AWAY. THIS PROBLEM OCCURS PERIODICALLY FOR ME AND IS REMEDIED TEMPORARILY BY FRANTICALLY "CLICKING" THE GEAR SHIFTER SWITCH UNTIL THE MESSAGE GOES AWAY. THIS PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM THAT IS NOT UNIQUE TO ME. THERE ARE SEVERAL POSTS ONLINE ABOUT THE EXACT SAME ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI #10781557
36,800 miles · Sep 22, 2015
Electrical SystemPower Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO VIBRATE UNCONTROLLABLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED WHEN DRIVING FROM A COMPLETE STOP OR WHEN DECREASING IN SPEED. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE V…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO VIBRATE UNCONTROLLABLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED WHEN DRIVING FROM A COMPLETE STOP OR WHEN DECREASING IN SPEED. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED ONCE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE INTERIOR LIGHTING ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WOULD DIM OCCASIONALLY WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,800.
NHTSA ODI #10767316
111,450 miles · Aug 11, 2015
Power Train
I REVIEVED SAFETY RECALL NOTICE 14S06/NHSA RECALL 14V-286 FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY IN DEARBORN, MICHIGAN INFORMING ME THAT A RECALL WAS TO BE PERFORMED ON MY POWER STEERING. THE NOTICE ALSO STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING GEAR WOULD BE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY FREE OF CHARGE (PARTS AND LABOR) SHOULD IT FAIL BEFORE 150,000 MILES OR …
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I REVIEVED SAFETY RECALL NOTICE 14S06/NHSA RECALL 14V-286 FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY IN DEARBORN, MICHIGAN INFORMING ME THAT A RECALL WAS TO BE PERFORMED ON MY POWER STEERING. THE NOTICE ALSO STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING GEAR WOULD BE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY FREE OF CHARGE (PARTS AND LABOR) SHOULD IT FAIL BEFORE 150,000 MILES OR THE END OF DECEMBER 2015. "THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING EFFORT, ESPECIALLY AT LOW SPEEDS, WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF CRASH" WAS STATED IN THE LETTER. I TOOK MY VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER(SOUTHWEST FORD OF GREENVILLE, TEXAS) AND WAS TOLD THAT THE PROGRAMMING OF THE POWER CONTROL MODULE WAS COMPLETE BUT THEY COULD NOT REPLACE THE POWER STEERING GEAR UNLESS DIRECTED BY FORD TO DO SO. THE LETTER STATED THE GEAR WOULD BE REPLACED AT NO CHARGE (PARTS AND LABOR) IF THE GEAR IS REPLACED BEFORE 150,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE, OR DECEMBER 31, 2015. THE FORD DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAID THEY ARE NOT AUTHORIZED TO REPLACE THE GEAR UNLESS DIRECTED BY FORD HOME OFFICE. IF THIS IS A KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE IT REPLACED BEFORE IT FAILS. I AM NOT CLOSE TO THE 150,000 MILES BUT THE END OF 2015 IS NEAR.
NHTSA ODI #10747815
34,147 miles · Jul 29, 2015
Power Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AFTER THE POWER TRAIN WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE DID RESTART, HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND PROPERLY WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AFTER THE POWER TRAIN WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE DID RESTART, HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND PROPERLY WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED, HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED ON THREE OTHER OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,147.
NHTSA ODI #10744667
Official recalls
6Jan 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.
Sep 22, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 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. These vehicles may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part that could seize, and result 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: Dealer will inspect for the presence of a CABJ. If a CABJ of any design is found, the dealer will inspect the tightness of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S43.
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.
Mar 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S11.
May 29, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can cause a loss of the motor position sensor signal resulting in a shut down of the power steering assist.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of motor position sensor signal when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, its steering rack assembly will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S06.
Feb 2, 2011
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 EXPLORER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 15, 2010, THROUGH DECEMBER 13, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SECOND ROW 60% SEATS WITH MANUAL RECLINER MECHANISMS THAT MAY HAVE COMPONENTS THAT ARE OUT OF DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATION. THESE SEATS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK MAY NOT PROVIDE THE REQUIRED STRENGTH, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
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
4PE23001 · 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
PE16008 · Ford Explorer Exhaust Odor
Opened Jul 1, 2016 · Closed Sep 12, 2017
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System; Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
Structure:body
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which can be symptomatic of carbon monoxide exposure.Additionally, Ford provided 2,400 reports including owner complaints, warranty claims, dealer field reports, and legal claims, that involve 2,051 vehicles that may be connected to the exhaust odor issue.NHTSA's Vehicle Test and Research Center tested multiple vehicles, including complaint vehicles, during the investigation.ODI also conducted field inspections of complaint vehicles and crashes involving police units that occurred while the officers were on duty.When possible, data was collected to quantify carbon monoxide levels in the examined vehicles.Based on the information gathered to date, NHTSA upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA17-002).
PE12017 · Electric Power Steering Failure
Opened Jun 19, 2012 · Closed Jun 12, 2014
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:electric Power Assist System
On May 27, 2014 and amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 179,027 model year (MY) 2011 through 2013 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with electric power assisted steering (EPAS), including 82,328 MY 2011 Explorersthat are the subject of PE12-017.Ford has assigned the recall number 14S06.The NHTSA recall number is 14V-286.Ford's DIR indicates that loss of power steering assist while driving would require higher steering effort at lower vehicle speeds, which may result in an increased risk of a crash.Sudden loss of power steering assist while driving can occur in the subject vehicles if the system loses electrical power or whenever the system detects a fault that requires it to enter fail-safe mode, which removes power from the EPAS motor and defaults to manual steering.Ford's DIR indicates that the majority of steering assist failures in the recalled vehicles have been caused by an intermittent electrical connection in the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) that can lead to a loss of the motor position sensor signal.Ford's remedy instructs dealers to check the PSCM for diagnostic trouble codes (DTC).If upon initial inspection a loss of steering assist DTC is present, dealers will replace the steering gear at no charge to the owner and update the PSCM with revised software.Following detection of a motor position sensor signal fault, the revised software will provide audible and visual warnings to the driver that a power steering system fault has been detected and will maintain steering assist for the remainder of that drive cycle.If no DTC is present, dealers will reprogram the PSCM with the revised software. Analysis of information from all sources identified a total of 969 complaints and 4,059 warranty claims related to loss of power steering assist while driving in the MY 2011 through 2012 Explorer vehicles, resulting in a complaint rate of 5.4 incidents per thousand vehicles and a warranty claim rate of 2.3 percent.ODI identified 15 crashes with evidence indicating loss of power steering assist may have been a factor.All 15 crashes involved low-speed impacts with roadside objects during turning maneuvers, resulting in minor vehicle damage or no damage.In one incident that occurred in a low-speed curve, the driver attempted to brake in response to the sudden increase in steering effort and inadvertently applied the accelerator pedal instead.This caused the vehicle to run off the side of the road and strike a wooden pole at approximately 15 mph.Another incident occurred when the driver was unable to to negotiate a left-turn at an intersection and ran off the road into a shallow ditch, resulting in moderate front-end damage to the vehicle and minor injuries to the driver that did not require medical treatment. This investigation is closed.All ODI complaints associated with this closing resume are listed in the Attachment 1.
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