NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,197 reports80,000 miles · May 24, 2016
Air Bags
THIS IS THE FOURTH TIME THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT FORD HAS NOT ADDRESS THIS AS A RECALL. FORD NEEDS TO THINK THAT IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT THE AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY. LIKE IF A SAFETY BELT DONT WORK THEN IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND IT SHOULD BE A LIFETIME WARRANTY.TAKATA AIRBAG ISSUE THE AIRBAG WORKS B…
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THIS IS THE FOURTH TIME THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT FORD HAS NOT ADDRESS THIS AS A RECALL. FORD NEEDS TO THINK THAT IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT THE AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY. LIKE IF A SAFETY BELT DONT WORK THEN IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND IT SHOULD BE A LIFETIME WARRANTY.TAKATA AIRBAG ISSUE THE AIRBAG WORKS BUT CAN KILL YOU AND WHEN AIRBAGS DOES NOT WORK IT CAN KILL ALSO.SO WHY DOES NOT FORD ISSUE A SAFETY RECALL ON THEIR VEHICLES SPECIALLY 2011-2015 FORD EXPLORERS
NHTSA ODI #10870676
100,000 miles · May 20, 2016
Structure
I WAS DRIVING DOWN I64 EAST WHEN I STARTED HEARING THIS LOUD BUZZING LIKE NOISE. NEXT THING I KNEW IT SOUNDED LIKE SOMETHING HIT MY DRIVING SIDE WINDOW BOUNCED ALONE MY CAR AND FLEW BEHIND ME CAUSING THE DRIVER BEHIND ME TO DODGE IT. ...I PULLED OFF THE INTERSTATE TO FIND THAT THE TRIM WAS GONE ALONE THE DRIVER SIDE WINDSHIELD. …
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I WAS DRIVING DOWN I64 EAST WHEN I STARTED HEARING THIS LOUD BUZZING LIKE NOISE. NEXT THING I KNEW IT SOUNDED LIKE SOMETHING HIT MY DRIVING SIDE WINDOW BOUNCED ALONE MY CAR AND FLEW BEHIND ME CAUSING THE DRIVER BEHIND ME TO DODGE IT. ...I PULLED OFF THE INTERSTATE TO FIND THAT THE TRIM WAS GONE ALONE THE DRIVER SIDE WINDSHIELD. IT HAD HIT THE DRIVERS SIDE ON MY CAR IN MULTIPLE PLACES AND CAUSED LONG BLACK MARKS ON MY SIDE MIRROR, AND REAR SIDE PANEL. GOT BACK ON THE INTERSTATE AND NOT EVEN TEN MINUTES LATER IT HAPPENED TO THE LEFT SIDE. SAME EXACT THING! RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE TRIM FLEW OFF HITTING MY WIFE'S WINDOW, SCRATCHED THE CAR AND CAUSED PERSON BEHIND US TO DODGE IT. I ALSO HAD MY FOUR CHILDREN IN THE CAR, SO EVERYONE WAS VERY UPSET AND SCARED CONSIDERING THAT IT COULD HAVE CAUSED US TO WRECK GOING 70 MPH DOWN THE INTERSTATE IN HEAVY TRAFFIC.I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP (GREENBRIER FORD) WHERE WE BOUGHT IT AND THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THAT IS TOO BAD, COME IN AND GET AND ESTIMATE, SO YOU CAN PAY TO FIX YOUR REPAIRS. THIS IS DEFINITELY A MALFUNCTION WITH THIS EXTERIOR OF THE CAR WHICH I SHOULDN'T BE LIABLE FOR ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING THAT IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT AND HARMED MY FAMILY. I GUESS FORD NEEDS SOMEONE TO DIE BEFORE THEY RECALL OR FIX THE PROBLEM. THANKS FORD FOR CARING...NOT.. WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO INTEGRITY??
NHTSA ODI #10869985
118,000 miles · May 13, 2016
Electrical SystemSteering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. IN ADDITION, THE "SERVICE POWER STEERING" AND "SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK" WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECU…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. IN ADDITION, THE "SERVICE POWER STEERING" AND "SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK" WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO MULTIPLE DEALERS WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 118,000.
NHTSA ODI #10864817
52,000 miles · May 6, 2016
Engine
AFTER HARD ACCELERATION AND LET UP EXHAUST SMELL GETS IN THE COMPARTMENT TO THE POINT YOU HAVE ROLL THE WINDOWS DOWN TO CLEAR IT OUT FORD HAS TRIED TO FIX IT THEY HAVE A SERVICE.
NHTSA ODI #10863548
Mileage unknown · Apr 28, 2016
Steering
THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I AM DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND I WANT TO CHANGE LANES, IT IS HARD FOR ME TO TURN THE WHEEL. THERE ARE ALSO TIMES WHERE AND SLOWING TO MAKE A TURN AND IT IS EXTREMELY HARD FOR ME TO TURN THE WHEEL.IT DOESN'T HAPPEN EVERY SINGLE TIME BUT IT HAPPENS MORE THAN ENOUGH.
NHTSA ODI #10862003
67,390 miles · Apr 17, 2016
Fuel/propulsion System
GAS LEAK DRIVER SIDE FUEL TANK AT SEAM
NHTSA ODI #10859950
65,000 miles · Apr 3, 2016
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Service BrakesSteering
AFTER HAVING EPAS REPLACED (@HALL FORD ELLIZABETH CITY, NC) UNDER RECALL 15N01 AFTER COMPLETE POWER STEERING FAILURE. WE BEGAN A 700 MI. ROAD TRIP HOME AND BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE SPONTANEOUS TRACTION CONTROL INTERACTION WITH OUR DRIVING INPUT WHICH AFFECTED EITHER POWER DISTRIBUTION TO THE AXELS, BRAKING ABILITY, AND STEERING ABILI…
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AFTER HAVING EPAS REPLACED (@HALL FORD ELLIZABETH CITY, NC) UNDER RECALL 15N01 AFTER COMPLETE POWER STEERING FAILURE. WE BEGAN A 700 MI. ROAD TRIP HOME AND BEGAN TO EXPERIENCE SPONTANEOUS TRACTION CONTROL INTERACTION WITH OUR DRIVING INPUT WHICH AFFECTED EITHER POWER DISTRIBUTION TO THE AXELS, BRAKING ABILITY, AND STEERING ABILITY. AFTER MAKING IT NEARLY 300 MILES THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL COMPLETELY WENT OUT ALONG WITH WHAT FELT LIKE ABS CONTROL SEEMED LIKE IT INTERVENED SPORADICALLY. WE ALSO RECIEVED A DASH PROMPT THAT THE FUEL FILLER INLET NEEDED CHECKED AS WELL. UPON ARRIVAL TO A FORD DEALER ALONG OUR ROUTE (SHEEHY FORD, WARRENTON, VA) THEY PULLED THE CODES LISTED AND APPEARED TO BE A LITANY OF CODES NEARLY A PAGE AND A HALF LONG. THEY CLEARED THE CODES AND DROVE THE VEHICLE. AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE AROUND THE BLOCK THE TRACTION CONTROL BEGAN TO ACT INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT LOSS OF TRACTION. THEY CAME BACK AND CHECKED FOR ERROR CODES AND THE "STEERING POSITION SENSOR WAS AT FAULT" THEY WENT THROUGH RE-CALIBRATED THE EQUIPMENT INSTALLED AND CLEARED OUT THE CODES AND DROVE WITHOUT ANY ISSUES. WE THEN CONTINUED ON OUR REMAINDER OF OUR TRIP WITHOUT ANY FURTHER ISSUES. UPON ARRIVAL TO OUR HOME DESTINATION THE FOLLOWING DAY WE BEGAN TO AGAIN HAVE TRACTION CONTROL INTERVENING WITH DRIVER INPUT WHEN NOT NEEDED WHERE IT APPEARS TO BE SHIFTING POWER FROM AXLE TO AXLE OR APPLYING BRAKING TO AID IN TRACTION CONTROL. I HAVE ALSO NOTICED THAT THAT REAR VIEW CAMERA DISPLAYS THE POSTION OF THE DRIVER WHEEL IN RELATION TO THE WHEEL PATH IN REVERSE BUT APPEARS INTERMITTANT AS IF THERE IS A NOT A CONTINUOUS CONNECTION WITH THE SENSOR. TAKING TO OUR LOCAL FORD DEALER HERE MONDAY 4-4-16 TO HAVE THEM THOROUGHLY GO THROUGH THE VEHICLE BUT APPEARS TO CONTINUE TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING ASSIST. ALL ISSUES ARE PRESENT WHEN TRAVELING AT SPEED AND TURNING
NHTSA ODI #10853156
50,000 miles · Apr 1, 2016
Structure
THE HOOD PAINT IS BUBBLING UP AND SHOWS CORROSION ALONG THE FRONT. THE RUBBER AROUND THE WINDSHIELD IS DRY ROTTED AND CRUMBLING ALL AROUND THE WINDSHIELD. THE DEALER REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT EITHER PROBLEM. THERE IS A FORD TSB ISSUED ON THE PAINT ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI #10853029
43,000 miles · Mar 31, 2016
Steering
MY 2011 FORD EXPLORER STARTED HAVING POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILURE IN DEC, 2015 AT FIRST IT WOULD BE ON FIRST START UP, LASTING 3-4 SECONDS WITH A FROZEN STEERING WHEEL. GRADUALLY IT HAPPENED MORE OFTEN AND LASTED LONGER (5-10 SECONDS) RECENTLY IN MARCH 2016 WHILE DRIVING ACROSS FLORIDA ON VACATION, I SLOWED TO ENTER THE DRIV…
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MY 2011 FORD EXPLORER STARTED HAVING POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILURE IN DEC, 2015 AT FIRST IT WOULD BE ON FIRST START UP, LASTING 3-4 SECONDS WITH A FROZEN STEERING WHEEL. GRADUALLY IT HAPPENED MORE OFTEN AND LASTED LONGER (5-10 SECONDS) RECENTLY IN MARCH 2016 WHILE DRIVING ACROSS FLORIDA ON VACATION, I SLOWED TO ENTER THE DRIVEWAY OF A SHOPPING CENTER, AS I MADE THE TURN AT APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH MY STEERING WENT STIFF AND I HAD TO USE EXCESSIVE FORCE TO TURN AND AVOID A VEHICLE EXITING THE PARKING LOT. IT WAS ONLY THEN I GOOGLE SEARCHED IF OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS HAD EXPERIENCED SIMILAR FAILURES. THAT'S WHEN I LEARNED THAT ITS HAPPENING TO THOUSANDS OF OTHER FORD EXPLORER. EVEN THOUGH A SAFETY RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED TO REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR, YOU'LL FIND FORD WILL WANT TO CHANGE OTHER PARTS FIRST, PARTS NOT COVERED ON THE RECALL. THE STEERING GEAR IS VERY EXPENSIVE ($1,500) FIRST THE DEALER SAID ITS THE STEERING WHEEL ANGLE SENSOR AND NOT THE STEERING GEAR. THEY TOLD ME IT WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM AND THEY CHARGED ME FOR THE REPAIR......I LITERALLY PULLED OUT OF SUBURBAN FORD OF WATERFORD MICHIGAN AND DROVE 1 MILE TO A NEARBY GROCERY STORE, AFTER RETURNING TO MY VEHICLE ON THE FIRST START UP AFTER THIS REPAIR MY STEERING WAS FROZEN FOR 7-10 SECONDS AFTER 4 DAYS LOSS OF USAGE OF MY VEHICLE WHILE AT THE DEALERSHIP, NO RENTAL CAR OFFERED, I'LL BE RETURNING MY EXPLORER TO THE DEALER TOMORROW, I'LL KEEP POSTING UPDATES TO THIS NIGHTMARE WITH FORD MOTOR CO. FOLKS, I'M SURE YOU'LL ALL AGREE, LOSS OF STEERING IS ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS DEFECTS A VEHICLE CAN HAVE, NOT ONLY TO THE OWNER AND OCCUPANTS BUT TO THE OTHER INNOCENT DRIVES ON THE ROAD AS WELL
NHTSA ODI #10852834
18,747 miles · Feb 24, 2016
Unknown Or Other
HAVE HAD VEHICLE CHECKED NUMEROUS TIMES FOR ISSUES WITH THE GPS SYSTEM. THEY HAVE RESET AND RUN UPDATES, BUT MOST OF THE TIME I AM TOLD THERE IS NO PROBLEM WITH IT THAT THEY CAN FIND. WHILE DRIVING THE GPS SYSTEM PLACES THE CAR OUT IN A POND, THE MIDDLE OF A FIELD OR SOME WHERE OTHER THAN WHERE MY CAR IS PHYSICALLY LOCATED. T…
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HAVE HAD VEHICLE CHECKED NUMEROUS TIMES FOR ISSUES WITH THE GPS SYSTEM. THEY HAVE RESET AND RUN UPDATES, BUT MOST OF THE TIME I AM TOLD THERE IS NO PROBLEM WITH IT THAT THEY CAN FIND. WHILE DRIVING THE GPS SYSTEM PLACES THE CAR OUT IN A POND, THE MIDDLE OF A FIELD OR SOME WHERE OTHER THAN WHERE MY CAR IS PHYSICALLY LOCATED. THE PROBLEM IS SO BAD THAT I HAVE PURCHASED A TOMTOM TO REPLACE THE USELESS SYSTEM THAT I PURCHASED. FIRST OCCURRENCE DATE AND MILEAGE IS LISTED.
NHTSA ODI #10837909
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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