NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
358 reportsClear category filterMileage unknown · Jul 28, 2021
Steering
Power steering gear failure while driving. Light appeared as failure occurred. SUV became barely steerable while driving through a vehicle dense inner city residential block. I have excellent upper body strength but I was barely able to maneuver the vehicle to an open area to suspend operation and park to call for AAA to come …
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Power steering gear failure while driving. Light appeared as failure occurred. SUV became barely steerable while driving through a vehicle dense inner city residential block. I have excellent upper body strength but I was barely able to maneuver the vehicle to an open area to suspend operation and park to call for AAA to come tow it to mechanic. If my wife and children were driving or in this vehicle at the time of power steering gear failure I am afraid that she most likely not be able to have achieved the safe result I was able to. Vehicle was towed to Sentry Ford, they were able to diagnose the issue. It was a failed power steering gear, which is a recall(Ford Recall #15N01). They contacted Ford recall center and were informed that it was out of the coverage range by 804 miles. 804! And Ford would not honor repair. I attempted to contact Ford directly to work with them to resolve this serious safety issue, they said “this recall repair is no longer supported”,I asked to speak with their recall department and they informed me “that team is no longer active, there was a class action lawsuit brought up regarding this recall and now was being handled by a different department”, that she would transfer me to the class action section to handle this recall. When she transferred me she inadvertently disconnected call, I called back and spoke with another representative, explained my previous call, conversation, and direction which the previous representative provided. This second agent stated “no such department exists, you are over the mileage for the recall repair, we will not be covering it”. I asked to speak with a supervisor, was told none available and one would return my call within 24-48 hours. Waited for the rest of evening and into next day, “supervisor” called while I was driving and call sent to voicemail. Supervisor stated on voicemail that “recall past coverage period” “won’t support” supervisor did not leave a number to speak directly with her
NHTSA ODI #11426896
Mileage unknown · Jul 20, 2021
Steering
During the pandemic I have been mandated to drive everyday to work almost everyday to keep the community safe as I am a nurse. I received two recall letters over this time. I did not have an opportunity to take the car the the garage as some were closed and or short staffed unable to see my car anytime soon. The other day as I…
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During the pandemic I have been mandated to drive everyday to work almost everyday to keep the community safe as I am a nurse. I received two recall letters over this time. I did not have an opportunity to take the car the the garage as some were closed and or short staffed unable to see my car anytime soon. The other day as I was driving to work the power steering light came on the dash and suddenly the power steering locked up almost causing a serious collision. With all of my strength I was unable to move the steering wheel to stay on the road. The explorer was towed to Ford. I was told that I am 4,255 miles over the recall requirements and I must pay thousands of dollars to fix this. There are no exceptions for the few miles that I am over. When filing a complaint with ford about this situation, I was told that the recall for power steering was already done on this vehicle before me owning it. ( the ford dealership was unaware of this) There is no warranty on the recall replacement? This is a very dangerous situation that obviously keeps happening in fords. This is not fair that this is not covered. I complained previously about the steering issues I had at the time when it rains and the way the car handled, along with a few other complaints. I was told if the car did not show power steering issues, so they could not fix something they did not see having issues. At that time the gear shifter was replaced. I was not a fan of the service I received at FORD because I thought they were ignoring many of my issues. I don't know if I would be without a car right now if FORD would of handled this differently.
NHTSA ODI #11425627
Mileage unknown · Jul 18, 2021
Steering
My steering when driving at low speeds is really tight as if my power steering is not working. There is no warning for it and it does not happen non stop it will go away but when it does happen it's random and that can cause a lot of issues if I'm during a sharp corner. I have 2 kids I transport and working 5 days a week to meet…
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My steering when driving at low speeds is really tight as if my power steering is not working. There is no warning for it and it does not happen non stop it will go away but when it does happen it's random and that can cause a lot of issues if I'm during a sharp corner. I have 2 kids I transport and working 5 days a week to meet clients. This is my only vehicle and have nothing else I can drive.
NHTSA ODI #11425325
Mileage unknown · May 24, 2021
Steering
Vehicle feels like loses control, briefly and warning lights coming on. Had noticed intermittent, but was heading back from vacation and warning lights stayed on. Drove cautiously back on back roads, avoiding highway and took to local Ford Dealership and it was determined that the past steering recall repair has failed (15N01). …
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Vehicle feels like loses control, briefly and warning lights coming on. Had noticed intermittent, but was heading back from vacation and warning lights stayed on. Drove cautiously back on back roads, avoiding highway and took to local Ford Dealership and it was determined that the past steering recall repair has failed (15N01). The fix is warranteed so they ordered parts needed to fix problem. Unfortunately the vehicle has been out of use due to serious safety concern as advised by dealership as well as Ford, but part has no ETA on when available. I have been without a vehicle for over a month. Dealership was aware I reached out to Ford and also contacted representative at Ford I had contacted. Claim was filed, but to this day we still have no ETA on the fix and I am without use of this vehicle and they won't do anything in the interim to rectify the concern. I have a claim with Ford with a Yeniss Frias Case No. CAS-31788394-F9K2Y9 - 1-866-631-3788 Extension #:79,088 and myself and Kyle at Kimber Creek Ford 1-218-818-4419 have reached out and we have no answers and I have no driveable vehicle and no info on when if ever I will. This is beyond poor customer service on Ford's behalf to rectify a dangerous problem and to tell a customer sorry we don't know when and the customer has nothing safe to drive in the interim and they won't help with that either, is VERY poor and may cause others if in similar situation to just take the risk and drive the defective vehicle as people need their transportation and to offer no timeline. I was told when asked about loaner or rental by Ford, I didn't qualify as I didn't have a warranty, despite the recall fix being warranteed. They told me basically sorry, these are unusual times so doing their best. But yet as I noted, I get unusual times, but then maybe some things like helping someone have a safe vehicle to use in the interim should be reconsidered. The consumer stated there is no communication with Ford and an inability to drive the vehicle due to the defect.
NHTSA ODI #11418379
160,000 miles · May 12, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING ASSIST WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE DRIVEN WITH MANUAL STEERING ONLY. ROUNDTREE FORD (8770 BUSINESS PARK DR, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105, (318)798-3673) WAS CONTACTED A…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING ASSIST WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE DRIVEN WITH MANUAL STEERING ONLY. ROUNDTREE FORD (8770 BUSINESS PARK DR, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105, (318)798-3673) WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE STEERING MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS THEN INFORMED THAT THE REPAIR WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
NHTSA ODI #11416339
97,000 miles · Apr 15, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON THE STARTING OF THE VEHICLE, EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT CALLED LORENZO FORD (30725 SOUTH FEDERAL HIGHWAY, HOMESTEAD, FL 33030) WHERE THEY INFORME…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON THE STARTING OF THE VEHICLE, EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT CALLED LORENZO FORD (30725 SOUTH FEDERAL HIGHWAY, HOMESTEAD, FL 33030) WHERE THEY INFORMED HER TO BRING THE VEHICLE IN FOR AN INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 97,000.
NHTSA ODI #11408184
140,000 miles · Apr 9, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER, AND AFTER WAITING FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND THE STEERING FUNCTIONALITY WAS RESTORED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING FAULT WARNING …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER, AND AFTER WAITING FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND THE STEERING FUNCTIONALITY WAS RESTORED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING FAULT WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT SPOKE TO A REPRESENTATIVE AT KEN STOEPEL FORD (400 SIDNEY BAKER ST S, KERRVILLE, TX 78028, (830)257-5553) AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN REPAIRED PREVIOUSLY UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED FOR A SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 140,000.
NHTSA ODI #11407306
88,000 miles · Mar 26, 2021
Steering
AS I WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT ONTO A CITY STREET THE POWER STEERING ALERT CAME ON AND I LOST POWER STEERING. THE CAR WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND I BARELY MANAGED TO STAY ON THE ROAD. TURNING WAS THE DIFFICULT PART. I PARKED THE CAR AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE. WHEN I STARTED THE CAR AGAIN THE POWER STEERING HAD RETURNED…
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AS I WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT ONTO A CITY STREET THE POWER STEERING ALERT CAME ON AND I LOST POWER STEERING. THE CAR WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND I BARELY MANAGED TO STAY ON THE ROAD. TURNING WAS THE DIFFICULT PART. I PARKED THE CAR AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE. WHEN I STARTED THE CAR AGAIN THE POWER STEERING HAD RETURNED.
NHTSA ODI #11404948
186,000 miles · Feb 1, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED AND MAKING A RIGHT OR LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED LANDERS FORD SOUTH (95 GOODMAN RD E, SOUTHAVEN, MS 38671, (662) 349-4300) HOWEVER, THE …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED AND MAKING A RIGHT OR LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED LANDERS FORD SOUTH (95 GOODMAN RD E, SOUTHAVEN, MS 38671, (662) 349-4300) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS LIKE THE FAILURE LISTED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 186,000.
NHTSA ODI #11391007
106,653 miles · Jan 11, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. RECENTL…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. RECENTLY, THE VEHICLE STARTED EXPERIENCING THE SAME SYMPTOMS, AND WAS TAKEN TO SUBURBAN FORD OF FERNDALE (21600 WOODWARD AVE, FERNDALE, MI 48220 248) 399-1000) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF FAILURE AND DETERMINED THAT THE CONTACT HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR THE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 106,653.
NHTSA ODI #11387506
Official recalls
5Jan 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.
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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