NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,197 reports67,800 miles · May 22, 2017
Unknown Or Other
THE REAR VIEW CAMERA SYSTEM STARTED SHOWING A REVERSE IMAGE TO WHAT IS ACTUALLY BEHIND US WITHOUT WARNING (THE VIDEO WAS SHOWING MIRRORED/BACKWARDS VIEW). THIS CAUSED US TO THINK SOMEONE WHO WAS ACTUALLY ON ONE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WAS IN A SAFE PLACE, WHILE IN REALITY THEY WERE IN THE PATH OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS LARGE…
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THE REAR VIEW CAMERA SYSTEM STARTED SHOWING A REVERSE IMAGE TO WHAT IS ACTUALLY BEHIND US WITHOUT WARNING (THE VIDEO WAS SHOWING MIRRORED/BACKWARDS VIEW). THIS CAUSED US TO THINK SOMEONE WHO WAS ACTUALLY ON ONE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WAS IN A SAFE PLACE, WHILE IN REALITY THEY WERE IN THE PATH OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS LARGE BLIND SPOTS IN THE BACK SIDES MAKING AN ACCURATE PICTURE A MUST-HAVE
NHTSA ODI #10990912
30 miles · May 6, 2017
Unknown Or Other
EXHAUST MAKING ME SICK,BAD SMELL LIKE ROTTEN EGGS INSIDE THE CAR EVERY TIME I TURN ON THE A/C AND MY KIDS GET SICK OF THAT SMELL
NHTSA ODI #10983792
116,943 miles · May 4, 2017
Steering
TURNING FROM HIGHWAY TO SUBDIVISION, POWER STEERING WENT OUT WHICH CAUSED ME TO ALMOST RUN INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHO WAS TURNING ONTO THE HIGHWAY. THIS HAS BEEN A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MY TRUCK'S MAKE AND MODEL AND PERHAPS THE ISSUE WAS LARGER THAN ORIGINALLY THOUGHT SINCE CLEARLY THIS ISSUE EFFECTS ME AND IT NEARLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT…
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TURNING FROM HIGHWAY TO SUBDIVISION, POWER STEERING WENT OUT WHICH CAUSED ME TO ALMOST RUN INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE WHO WAS TURNING ONTO THE HIGHWAY. THIS HAS BEEN A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MY TRUCK'S MAKE AND MODEL AND PERHAPS THE ISSUE WAS LARGER THAN ORIGINALLY THOUGHT SINCE CLEARLY THIS ISSUE EFFECTS ME AND IT NEARLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT.
NHTSA ODI #10983430
41,000 miles · May 2, 2017
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND REPAIRED. HOWEVER, WHILE THE CONTACT'S WIFE WAS DRIVING 25 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND THE VEH…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND REPAIRED. HOWEVER, WHILE THE CONTACT'S WIFE WAS DRIVING 25 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN. AS A RESULT, THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND THE VEHICLE VEERED INTO THE NEXT LANE. THE STEERING FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT IT HAD ALREADY BEEN REPAIRED AND THAT THE CONTACT WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR ANY FURTHER REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. UPDATED 06/29/17*LJ
NHTSA ODI #10983135
Mileage unknown · May 1, 2017
Steering
APRIL 30, 2017, WHEN STARTING MY EXPLORER I WAS NOTIFIED BY THE ONBOARD NOTIFICATION SYSTEM THAT THE STEERING POWER ASSIST HAD FAILED. NEXT MESSAGE STATED THE ADVANCE TRACK SYSTEM HAD ALSO FAILED. SURE ENOUGH THE POWER STEERING WAS NONEXISTENT. DROVE IT HOME AND FOUND THE CARE UNDRIVEABLE FOR MOST PEOPLE DUE TO THE FORCE…
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APRIL 30, 2017, WHEN STARTING MY EXPLORER I WAS NOTIFIED BY THE ONBOARD NOTIFICATION SYSTEM THAT THE STEERING POWER ASSIST HAD FAILED. NEXT MESSAGE STATED THE ADVANCE TRACK SYSTEM HAD ALSO FAILED. SURE ENOUGH THE POWER STEERING WAS NONEXISTENT. DROVE IT HOME AND FOUND THE CARE UNDRIVEABLE FOR MOST PEOPLE DUE TO THE FORCE REQUIRED AT THE WHEEL TO NEGOTIATE A TYPICAL RIGHT OR LEFT TURN AT 20 MPH.....!!!!! THE PROBLEM WAS FIXED ACCORDING TO THE FORD HOUSE IN 2014 SO THEY ARE UNWILLING TO ASSUME ANYMORE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FIX. THIS IS PROBLEMATIC DUE TO THE WIDESPREAD EXPERIENCE OF FORD OWNERS ACROSS AMERICA WHO NOW FACE RIDICULOUS COSTS ALL FOR THE SAME PROBLEM THAT WILL COME AGAIN IN 3-4 YEARS ($1700+). THE REAL PROBLEM HERE IS THE SYSTEM MIGHT JUST FAIL AT JUST THE WRONG TIME AND SEND YOU AND YOUR FAMILY OVER THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN ROAD OR ACROSS THE LANE INTO THAT EMBANKMENT! SUPER. TIME FOR FORD TO STEP UP!
NHTSA ODI #10982964
64,000 miles · Apr 25, 2017
Air Bags
PURCHASED USED VEHICLE JANUARY 2017. MARCH 2017 AIRBAG LIGHT APPEARED INTERMITTENTLY AT START, WHEN PLACED IN DRIVE, OR TRAVELING AT VARIABLE SPEEDS. APRIL 2017 AIRBAG LIGHT NOW ILLUMINATES 95% OF TIME AT START AND REMAINS ON THROUGHOUT OPERATION. FORD DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED AIRBAG CODE B1212, ADVISING HIGH ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE …
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PURCHASED USED VEHICLE JANUARY 2017. MARCH 2017 AIRBAG LIGHT APPEARED INTERMITTENTLY AT START, WHEN PLACED IN DRIVE, OR TRAVELING AT VARIABLE SPEEDS. APRIL 2017 AIRBAG LIGHT NOW ILLUMINATES 95% OF TIME AT START AND REMAINS ON THROUGHOUT OPERATION. FORD DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED AIRBAG CODE B1212, ADVISING HIGH ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE IN GEAR SHIFTER REQUIRING REPLACEMENT AS WILL NOT INDICATE TO VEHICLE SAFETY MONITORING SYSTEM THAT VEHICLE IS IN PROPER GEAR AND THEREFOR PASS FAULT DETECTING SYSTEM. REPAIR/REPLACEMENT APPROXIMATELY $515.00. TSB-12-5-11 HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS CODE, WAS APPLIED WITH NO RESOLVE. FAULT DISABLES CRITICAL SAFETY SYSTEM, IS NOT COVERED UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY AND IS OWNER'S FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. THERE IS AN ENORMOUS CONSUMER REPORTING TREND FOR THIS DEFECT IN MAKE/MODEL. RECOMMEND RECALL INVESTIGATION AS COMMON TREND THAT DISABLES CRITICAL VEHICLE SAFETY FEATURE IDENTIFIED BY MANUFACTURER IN TSB-12-5-11. INTERNET RESEARCH ON THIS MATTER SUBSTANTIATES MULTIPLE AND REPEATED OWNER/MANUFACTURER HISTORICAL DATA SUPPORTING CLAIM.
NHTSA ODI #10980447
Mileage unknown · Apr 23, 2017
Air Bags
RANDOMLY, THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL COME ON AND REMAIN ON UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS RESET, INDICATING THERE IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH THE SRS SYSTEM. HAPPENS AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, DURING THE INITIAL TESTING OF COMPONENTS. UPON SEARCHING ONLINE, THERE SEEMS TO BE QUITE A BIT OF PEOPLE WITH EXPLORERS BETWEEN 2011-2015 WITH THIS…
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RANDOMLY, THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL COME ON AND REMAIN ON UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS RESET, INDICATING THERE IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH THE SRS SYSTEM. HAPPENS AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, DURING THE INITIAL TESTING OF COMPONENTS. UPON SEARCHING ONLINE, THERE SEEMS TO BE QUITE A BIT OF PEOPLE WITH EXPLORERS BETWEEN 2011-2015 WITH THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #10979984
108,394 miles · Apr 1, 2017
EngineService BrakesSteering
I FIRST BEGAN EXPERIENCING BRAKING AND BATTERY ISSUES 3 TO 4 WEEKS AFTER THE PURCHASE OF MY VEHICLE. I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICING OF THE BRAKING AND BATTERY ISSUES. I WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE ADVISOR THAT I SHOULD RETURN THE VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS DUE TO THE MULTIPLE ISSUES WITH VEHICLE. AT THAT TIME, I LEAR…
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I FIRST BEGAN EXPERIENCING BRAKING AND BATTERY ISSUES 3 TO 4 WEEKS AFTER THE PURCHASE OF MY VEHICLE. I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICING OF THE BRAKING AND BATTERY ISSUES. I WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE ADVISOR THAT I SHOULD RETURN THE VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS DUE TO THE MULTIPLE ISSUES WITH VEHICLE. AT THAT TIME, I LEARNED THAT THERE WAS LEAKAGE FROM THE UPPER PORTION OF THE ENGINE. THE DEALERSHIP ADDRESSES SOME BUT NOT ALL ISSUES RELATED TO THE VEHICLE. NEXT, I RECEIVED AN EMAIL FROM THE DEALERSHIP STATING THE VEHICLE WAS DUE FOR FACTORY RECOMMENDED SERVICING. I MADE AN APPT. THE NEXT DAY, THE LOW BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON. CALLED DEALERSHIP, NO RESPONSE. ONE AND A HALF WEEKS LATER, THE BATTERY WAS DEAD. CALLED TRIPLE A. BATTERY HAD BATTERY ACID AND CORROSION EVERYWHERE. A RED SOLUTION WAS SPRAYED ON THE BATTERY TO PREVENT LEAKAGE. BUT IT DIDN'T WORK THAT WELL. INFORMED DEALERSHIP AT THE TIME OF SERVICE, THAT THE POWER STEERING SERVICE LIGHT HAD COME ON. FIVE DAYS LATER, I COULDN'T TURN THE STEERING WHEEL. BOTH SERVICE ADVISORS STATED THAT VEHICLE SHOULDN'T HAVE BEEN PLACED ON LOT FOR SALE. I NO LONGER FEEL SAFE IN THIS VEHICLE. AS I HAVE TWO MINOR CHILDREN. THE DATE OF ONSET WOULD'VE BEEN 04/08/2016. THERE IS ANOTHER PHOTO, HOWEVER, THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH ROOM TO INCLUDE.
NHTSA ODI #10969927
108,394 miles · Apr 1, 2017
EngineService BrakesSteering
I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE IN MARCH OF 2016. I FIRST HAD ISSUES WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM. I HEARD SCREECHING AND WHIRRING AS I DROVE THE VEHICLE. NEXT, I HAD ISSUES WITH THE BATTERY, BATTERY ACID LEAKED ALL OVER THE BATTERY, CORROSION BUILT UP ON THE BATTERY. MOST RECENTLY, AFTER SERVICING MY VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING LOCKED UP. TH…
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I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE IN MARCH OF 2016. I FIRST HAD ISSUES WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM. I HEARD SCREECHING AND WHIRRING AS I DROVE THE VEHICLE. NEXT, I HAD ISSUES WITH THE BATTERY, BATTERY ACID LEAKED ALL OVER THE BATTERY, CORROSION BUILT UP ON THE BATTERY. MOST RECENTLY, AFTER SERVICING MY VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING LOCKED UP. THE COMPUTER READ THAT THERE WAS POWER STEERING FAULT. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW I WAS ABLE TO PURCHASE A VEHICLE OFF THE DEALERSHIP LOT WITH ALL OF THE ISSUES THAT THE VEHICLE HAD.
NHTSA ODI #10969920
105,000 miles · Mar 28, 2017
Unknown Or Other
EXHAUST LEAK PROBLEM IN MY CAR WHILE THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON OR WHEN I ACCELERATE. THE CAR SMELLS LIKE GAS CONSTANTLY, EVEN WHEN IT IS PARKED AND IN MY GARAGE. I AM TERRIFIED FOR MY THREE CHILDREN. WE HAVE TAKEN IT TO FORD TWICE ALREADY AND THEY CAN'T FIX IT AND EXPECT ME TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. NO WAY! WE ARE ALL SICK A…
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EXHAUST LEAK PROBLEM IN MY CAR WHILE THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON OR WHEN I ACCELERATE. THE CAR SMELLS LIKE GAS CONSTANTLY, EVEN WHEN IT IS PARKED AND IN MY GARAGE. I AM TERRIFIED FOR MY THREE CHILDREN. WE HAVE TAKEN IT TO FORD TWICE ALREADY AND THEY CAN'T FIX IT AND EXPECT ME TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. NO WAY! WE ARE ALL SICK ALL OF THE TIME. I AM TERRIFIED TO EVEN DRIVE IT.
NHTSA ODI #10968882
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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