NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Power Train complaints
79 reportsClear category filter62,000 miles · Aug 2, 2018
Power Train
TRANSFER CASE HAS LEAK AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED ACCORDING TO FORD. VEHICLE HAS 62,000 MILES AND OUT OF WARRANTY. LEAK WAS DISCOVERED AT APPROX 57,000 MILES BUT WAS ASSUMED TO BE A LEAK FROM SLOPPY OIL CHANGE. REPORTED TO FORD CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE ON 8-2-2018. THEY SAID NO WARRANTY COVERAGE APPLIES. TOLD TO SAVE RECEIPTS FOR REPAI…
Read full complaint
TRANSFER CASE HAS LEAK AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED ACCORDING TO FORD. VEHICLE HAS 62,000 MILES AND OUT OF WARRANTY. LEAK WAS DISCOVERED AT APPROX 57,000 MILES BUT WAS ASSUMED TO BE A LEAK FROM SLOPPY OIL CHANGE. REPORTED TO FORD CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE ON 8-2-2018. THEY SAID NO WARRANTY COVERAGE APPLIES. TOLD TO SAVE RECEIPTS FOR REPAIR WORK IN CASE OF A NHTSA RECALL.
NHTSA ODI #11115332
75,000 miles · Jul 26, 2018
Engine And Engine CoolingPower Train
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH AND WHILE ACCELERATING, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL EXHAUST ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE PARK POSITION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER (CROWSON AUTO WORLD, 541 MI…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH AND WHILE ACCELERATING, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL EXHAUST ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE PARK POSITION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER (CROWSON AUTO WORLD, 541 MISSISSIPPI 15, LOUISVILLE, MS 39339, (662) 773-8070) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS NOT A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 75,000.
NHTSA ODI #11113968
39,789 miles · Jul 19, 2018
Power Train
MY TRANSMISSION WILL NOT STAY IN PARK UNLESS I FORCE THE SHIFTER. FORD IS RECALLING 550,000 VEHICLES FOR THIS EXACT SAME PROBLEM. MY VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. YA'LL SHOULD LOOK INTO THIS AS I BELIEVE THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.
NHTSA ODI #11112343
65,000 miles · Jun 10, 2018
Power Train
TAKATA RECALL) I WAS DRIVING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL WHEN MY TRUCK MADE A CRAZY SOUND AND FELT LIKE CAR CAME TO A STOP WHILE GOING APPROX 40 MILES PER HOUR, IT THREW OUR BODIES IN A JERKING MOTION. I IMMEDIATELY GOT CAUTIOUS DRIVING NOW NO MORE THEN APPROX 5 MILES PER HOUR TO PREVENT US FROM JERKING US AS IT KEPT MAKING THE TRUCK JE…
Read full complaint
TAKATA RECALL) I WAS DRIVING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL WHEN MY TRUCK MADE A CRAZY SOUND AND FELT LIKE CAR CAME TO A STOP WHILE GOING APPROX 40 MILES PER HOUR, IT THREW OUR BODIES IN A JERKING MOTION. I IMMEDIATELY GOT CAUTIOUS DRIVING NOW NO MORE THEN APPROX 5 MILES PER HOUR TO PREVENT US FROM JERKING US AS IT KEPT MAKING THE TRUCK JERK. AFTER CAUTIOUSLY DRIVING IT HOME AND HAVING TO KEEP MY KIDS OUT OF SCHOOL I PARKED IT AND GOT A EVALUATION ON TRUCK ISSUE WHICH I WAS TOLD SEEM TO BE TRANSMISSION I THEN AFTER GOT ON THE PHONE WITH FORD MOTOR COMPANY WHO REFUSED TO ASSIST ME WITH ANY HELP OR EVEN TAKE MY COMPLAINT UNTIL I TOOK IT TO ONE OF THEIR DEALERS.I EXPLAINED TO HER THE REPRESENTATIVE I WAS LOOKING FOR THE BEST ADVICE AND SEE IF THEY BE WILLING TO WORK WITH ME BECAUSE AFTER LOOKING UP THIS MAKE AND MODELS TRANSMISSION I FOUND OUT THERE'S SEVERAL DEFECTS ALSO THE SAME STYLE OF TRANSMISSION BEING PUT INTO OTHER FORD VEHICLES . WHILE RESEARCHING I CAME ACROSS SEVERAL OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD NIGHTMARES ALSO WITH THEIR TRANSMISSIONS OR PARTS WITHIN THE TRANSMISSION . I AM REACHING OUT BECAUSE THE COST OF THIS IS GOING TO BE ABOUT $2000 FOR THE LABOR AND PART REPLACEMENT NOT INCLUDING MISSED TIME AT WORK LOST WAGES RENTAL VEHICLES.IT IS VERY FRUSTRATING AND COULD BE VERY DANGEROUS THAT THESE TRANSMISSIONS CAN JUST FAIL WITH NOTICE WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS .I HAVE TRIED TO GO THROUGH FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND GET SOME TYPE OF SOLUTION I'VE SEEN MANY CONSUMERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE AND FEEL FORD SHOULD TAKE MORE RESPONSIBILITY AND BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THIS WHAT'S IT GOING TO TAKE A LOST LIFE!? THE SAME VEHICLE HAS AN CARBONMINOXCIDE LEAK THAT IS KNOWN THROUGHOUT THEIR VEHICLE AND SUSPENSION ISSUES IN THE REAR THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE HAS MANY FAULTS TO IT AND I BELIEVE THEY ARE TRYING TO COVER IT TO SAVE THEM FROM PAYING THE COST BACK TO CONSUMERS . PLEASE HELP!!
NHTSA ODI #11100765
35,000 miles · Apr 12, 2018
Electrical SystemPower TrainUnknown Or Other
"DRIVER SIDE DOOR AJAR" LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME ON EACH TIME I START THE CAR. I HAVE TO OPEN AND SHUT THE DOOR TO GET IT TO TURN OFF. THAT OCCURRED FOR ONE MONTH. NOW THE LIGHT WILL NOT TURN OFF AND THE "TRANSMISSION IS NOT IN PARK" LIGHT TURNS ON WHILE I AM DRIVING. IN ADDITION, THE DOME LIGHTS WILL NOT GO OFF WHEN I PARK THE C…
Read full complaint
"DRIVER SIDE DOOR AJAR" LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME ON EACH TIME I START THE CAR. I HAVE TO OPEN AND SHUT THE DOOR TO GET IT TO TURN OFF. THAT OCCURRED FOR ONE MONTH. NOW THE LIGHT WILL NOT TURN OFF AND THE "TRANSMISSION IS NOT IN PARK" LIGHT TURNS ON WHILE I AM DRIVING. IN ADDITION, THE DOME LIGHTS WILL NOT GO OFF WHEN I PARK THE CAR UNLESS I CONSTANTLY ADJUST THE LIGHT DIAL AND EVENTUALLY THE DOME LIGHT WILL GO OFF WHEN THE DOORS ARE LOCKED (30 MINUTES TO GET IT OFF THE OTHER NIGHT). REGARDING THE REAR TRANSMISSION NOISE. OVER 50 PERCENT OF THE TIME WHEN I AM BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT, I HEAR A CLUNKING SOUND AS THOUGH I STRUCK AN OBJECT ONLY TO FIND THAT NOTHING IS BEHIND ME. FINALLY, WHEN I ENTER MY CAR AND START IT, I HEAR A LOUD POPPING SOUND IN THE FRONT WINDSHIELD LIKE THE WINDSHIELD GLASS IS CRACKING. NO IDEA WHAT THAT MAY BE.
NHTSA ODI #11084697
75,414 miles · Jan 28, 2018
Power Train
SUDDEN ONSET OF GRINDING NOISE. UPON EXAMINATION AND CONFIRMATION OF ENGINE OIL, COOLANT AND TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVELS, DETERMINED THAT TRANSFER CASE/PTU WAS FAILING. CAUSED LOUD CLANKING AND GRINDING NOISES WHILE IN FORWARD GEARS WHICH WAS WORSENED WHEN TURNING. GEARBOX LOCKED UP WHILE IN TURN AND STOPPED VEHICLE IN ROADWAY WHI…
Read full complaint
SUDDEN ONSET OF GRINDING NOISE. UPON EXAMINATION AND CONFIRMATION OF ENGINE OIL, COOLANT AND TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVELS, DETERMINED THAT TRANSFER CASE/PTU WAS FAILING. CAUSED LOUD CLANKING AND GRINDING NOISES WHILE IN FORWARD GEARS WHICH WAS WORSENED WHEN TURNING. GEARBOX LOCKED UP WHILE IN TURN AND STOPPED VEHICLE IN ROADWAY WHILE CROSSING OPPOSITE TRAFFIC LANE. NO SIGNS OF FLUID LEAKS FROM TRANSFER CASE OR TRANSMISSION.
NHTSA ODI #11065519
50,000 miles · Jan 8, 2018
Power Train
WHEN VEHICLE IS PLACED IN PARK AND TURNED OFF A WARNING SIGNAL IS ALERTED THAT TRANSMISSION IS NOT IN PARK. THIS HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY. I AM WORRIED THE VEHICLE COULD POSSIBLY ROLL OFF.
NHTSA ODI #11061324
65,000 miles · Dec 7, 2017
EnginePower TrainStructure
I AM WRITING TO YOU IN REGARDS TO PHYSICAL ILLNESS THAT I HAVE SUFFERED AS WELL AS MY PASSENGERS FROM MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPTOR PACKAGE. STARTING BACK WHEN I FIRST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 59,000 MILES, I HAVE EXPERIENCED AN EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN SHORTLY AFTER ACCELERATING OVER 3,000RPMS. THIS I…
Read full complaint
I AM WRITING TO YOU IN REGARDS TO PHYSICAL ILLNESS THAT I HAVE SUFFERED AS WELL AS MY PASSENGERS FROM MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPTOR PACKAGE. STARTING BACK WHEN I FIRST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 59,000 MILES, I HAVE EXPERIENCED AN EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN SHORTLY AFTER ACCELERATING OVER 3,000RPMS. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN INVESTIGATED AT MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP TWICE, WITH THE TECHNICIAN CONFIRMING THE SMELL. AFTER THIS WORK WAS PERFORMED, I STILL TO THIS DAY AM SUFFERING FROM EXHAUST FUMES AND PHYSICAL ILLNESS DIRECTLY RELATED TO MY FORD EXPLORER. ALL REPAIR ORDERS FROM INVOLVED FORD DEALERSHIPS ARE IN MY POSSESSION CONFIRMING EXHAUST FUMES ARE STILL ENTERING THE CABIN. FROM THE TIME I TOOK OWNERSHIP IN OCTOBER 2016, I HAVE EXPERIENCED PHYSICAL ILLNESS WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN 1 HOUR AT A TIME. I GET EXTREMELY LIGHTHEADED AND NAUSEATED, WHICH HAS CAUSED ME TO FREQUENTLY STOP THE VEHICLE AND VOMIT. MY PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE HAVE ALSO EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SYMPTOMS WHEN RIDING IN THE VEHICLE. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, I STOP AT A SAFE LOCATION AND REMOVE MYSELF TO FRESH AIR, AND THE SYMPTOMS SOON PASS AND I AM ABLE TO DRIVE AGAIN. RECENTLY, I HAVE TRAVELED FROM MASSACHUSETTS TO VERMONT IN MY EXPLORER. THE MOSTLY HIGHWAY DRIVING TRIP IT WAS ME AS WELL AS MY GIRLFRIEND. AFTER AROUND AN HOUR OF DRIVING AT 60MPH, MY GIRLFRIEND AND I WERE FEELING VERY DIZZY AND BECAME NAUSEATED, SO I OPTED TO STOP AND RELAX AT A REST STOP FOR FRESH AIR PRIOR TO CONTINUING MY TRIP TO VERMONT. I HAVE INSTALLED A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR IN MY VEHICLE, WHICH HAS ACTIVATED MORE THAN ONE OCCASION WHILE DRIVING. AT THIS TIME I AM NEGOTIATING WITH FORD'S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL TO PERFORM A BUYBACK OF MY EXPLORER AND REPLACE IT WITH A DIFFERENT VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11053333
24,900 miles · Dec 2, 2017
Power Train
SHORTLY AFTER LEAVING HOME, AS I WAS REACHING A MAJOR ROAD, I FELT MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY START TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND MAKE A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED TO LOSE SPEED AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE. I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN PARK AND TURN THE HAZARDS ON. THIS WAS VERY SCARY BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY VEHICLE OF MINE B…
Read full complaint
SHORTLY AFTER LEAVING HOME, AS I WAS REACHING A MAJOR ROAD, I FELT MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY START TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND MAKE A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED TO LOSE SPEED AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE. I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN PARK AND TURN THE HAZARDS ON. THIS WAS VERY SCARY BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY VEHICLE OF MINE BEHAVE THIS WAY. I LITERALLY THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO GRAB MY 3 YEAR OLD AND RUN FOR MY LIFE. I THOUGHT IT COULD EXPLODE OR CATCH FIRE OR WHO KNOWS. AT THIS POINT I JUST FELT FEAR. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT IF SOMEONE BEHIND ME WOULD'VE REAR ENDED ME. AGAIN, MY CAR STOPPED MOVING FOR NO REASON. THIS COULD POSE A MAJOR THREAT AND I WOULD RECOMMEND ACTIONS BE TAKEN TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE, I LEARNED ABOUT MANY OTHER FORD DRIVERS EXPERIENCING SIMILAR SITUATIONS INVOLVING THE THROTTLE BODY COMPONENT. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE THIS COULD BE A COLLECTIVE PROBLEM. I HOPE FORD WILL TAKE MY CONCERNS INTO CONSIDERATION TO PREVENT ANY FUTURE DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. THANK YOU.
NHTSA ODI #11052034
57,000 miles · Nov 28, 2017
EnginePower TrainSteering
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY APPROX 65 MPH IN RAIN. SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING, MESSAGE ON DASHBOARD INDICATING CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM, THEN HILL ASSIST FAILURE, THEN WARNING MESSAGE THAT ALL ACCESSORY POWER WAS DISABLED TO CONSERVE POWER. THEN ALL LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD LIT UP. LOSS OF POWER STEERING IN RAIN ON HIGHWAY ALMOST CAUSED …
Read full complaint
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY APPROX 65 MPH IN RAIN. SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING, MESSAGE ON DASHBOARD INDICATING CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM, THEN HILL ASSIST FAILURE, THEN WARNING MESSAGE THAT ALL ACCESSORY POWER WAS DISABLED TO CONSERVE POWER. THEN ALL LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD LIT UP. LOSS OF POWER STEERING IN RAIN ON HIGHWAY ALMOST CAUSED VEHICLE TO LOSE CONTROL AND BE INVOLVED IN MULTIPLE CAR ACCIDENT. SERPENTINE BELT WAS FOUND TO BE IN PROPER CONDITION, AND WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME ALTERNATE ROUTE ALONG 35MPH ROADS. NO FURTHER PROBLEMS ASIDE FROM OCCASIONAL SQUEAK UNDER ACCELERATION. IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED UP WITH SERVICE CALL, SERPENTINE BELL WAS IN GOOD CONDITION, BUT BELT TENSIONER SPRING HAD FAILED. VEHICLE HAS ONLY 57,000 MILES. SEEMS EXCESSIVELY EARLY FOR THIS TYPE OF PART TO FAIL.
NHTSA ODI #11051052
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.
Jul 15, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Exposure to road salt can cause the cross-axis ball joint to corrode and seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle, and replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall numbers 16V-245, 19V-435, and 20V-675. Certain vehicles previously repaired will need to return for the new remedy. An interim notification letter notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2022. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S32.
Mar 12, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin that were previously repaired under a prior recall numbers 16V-245 or 19V-435. The outboard section of a rear suspension toe link may fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle attached to the rear suspension toe link and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S62.
Nov 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive. The support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may fail.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8, 2020. A second letter will be mailed when parts become available in January 2021. The recall began February 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S63.
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.
Apr 26, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured January 17, 2014 to May 31, 2014. The affected vehicles may have improperly welded rear suspension toe links that may fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fracture of the rear suspension toe link may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S18.
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).
EA15005 · Front Brake Hose Failure
Opened Sep 28, 2015 · Closed Nov 2, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
On April 29, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE15-017 to investigate a report alleging incidents of front brake hose failure in model year (MY) 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles used by the Sacramento Police Department in its pursuit driving training program (VOQ 10705832).On September 28, 2015, ODI upgraded the investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA15-005) to assess maximum front caliper crimp temperatures under various test conditions, test hose assemblies removed from police interceptor service for any signs of thermal degradation, and further assess field data for evidence of a defect trend related to the alleged defect.The alleged defect results from exposure to extremely high heat at the caliper-side hose crimp. NHTSA?s vehicle testing suggests that the conditions necessary to produce the critical temperatures in the subject components result from drive-soak intervals that can occur during the Sacramento training program.NHTSA's testing of hose assemblies returned from police interceptor service did not identify any evidence of thermal degradation.NHTSA has not confirmed any incidents of caliper crimp failures due to overheating in vehicles not subjected to the Sacramento training course driving.The low number of hose assembly failure reports and the absence of any verified incidents of heat related front brake hose crimp failures since 2015 suggests that the Sacramento PD incidents resulted from conditions unique to the training program.A safety related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of Agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The Agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For additional information, see the Closing Report in the document file for EA15-005 on www.nhtsa.gov.
Illustration