NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
496 reportsClear category filter150,000 miles · Mar 29, 2021
Electrical SystemSteering
WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN AN UPDATED RECALL ON THE 2014 EXPLORER ON LOSING ITS POWER STEERING? I JUST TURNED MY VEHICLE ON TO AUTONATION FORD IN BURLESON, TX TO GET THE REAR TOW LINK RECALL REPAIRED AND THE ASSOCIATE TOLD ME THE POWER STEERING WAS NOT A CAUSE IN THE RECALL AND THAT IT WAS SOMETHING WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE FIXE…
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WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN AN UPDATED RECALL ON THE 2014 EXPLORER ON LOSING ITS POWER STEERING? I JUST TURNED MY VEHICLE ON TO AUTONATION FORD IN BURLESON, TX TO GET THE REAR TOW LINK RECALL REPAIRED AND THE ASSOCIATE TOLD ME THE POWER STEERING WAS NOT A CAUSE IN THE RECALL AND THAT IT WAS SOMETHING WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE FIXED. THIS IS NOT HAPPENING DUE TO FAILURE TO MAINTENANCE OR DUE TO LACK OF TAKING CARE OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING ISSUE AND THE HISTORY PROVES IT! THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE 2011-2013 MODEL FOR THIS BUT NOW THAT IT IS CONTINUING, IT IS NOW THE OWNERS RESPONSIBILITY? THIS EFFECTS THE DRIVING AND IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. YOU HAVE LOW TURNING RADIUS, IT DISENGAGES ALL THE ADVANCED DRIVING MODES, IT ALSO EFFECTS THE BLINKERS. YOU HAVE TO HOLD THE BLINKER DOWN FOR IT TO STAY ON, YOU CANT JUST CLICK THE LEVER AND IT STAYS IN THE BLINKING MODE LIKE IT IS SUPPOSED TOO. IF YOU PUT CRUISE CONTROL ON, THE STEERING CAN LOCK UP AND YOU LITERALLY HAVE TO JERK IT TO GET IT OUT OUT AND BE ABLE TO TURN OR EVEN SWERVE. FORD NEEDS TO TAKE CARE OF THIS BECAUSE YOU CAN SEE BY ALL THE COMPLAINTS AND HISTORY OR REOCCURRENCE, THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND NOT A OWNER ISSUE. IF FORD DOES NOT TAKE CARE OF THIS ISSUE FOR US AND EVEN THE THOUGHT OF IT BEING A CHARGEABLE SERVICE, I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO THIS TO A HIGHER DEMAND TO GET HELP AND TO BRING THIS TO THE ATTENTION TO THE ONES THAT NEED ACT. THIS IS UNSAFE TO ME AND MY FAMILY AS WELL AS ALL THE OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS. THE MANUFACTURING DEFECT NEEDS TO BE FIXED OR OFFER SOME SORT OF SOLUTION FOR THE SAFETY OF THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11405330
80,000 miles · Mar 19, 2021
Steering
I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER AND NOTICED A SMALL GRINDING NOISE WHEN I WOULD BE PARKED OR WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. IT WAS LIKE THIS FOR A FEW DAYS AND NOW WHEN DRIVING HOME IT LOCKED COMPLETELY ON ME AND I LOST STEERING ABILITY AND HAD TO FORCEFULLY PARK IT AND HAD A TOW TRUCK TAKE IT HOME. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSU…
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I WAS DRIVING MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER AND NOTICED A SMALL GRINDING NOISE WHEN I WOULD BE PARKED OR WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. IT WAS LIKE THIS FOR A FEW DAYS AND NOW WHEN DRIVING HOME IT LOCKED COMPLETELY ON ME AND I LOST STEERING ABILITY AND HAD TO FORCEFULLY PARK IT AND HAD A TOW TRUCK TAKE IT HOME. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE WITH FORD EXPLORER AND THE STEERING RACK. I HAVE A MECHANIC COMING OUT TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE AND WE NEED A RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11403814
86,000 miles · Mar 15, 2021
Steering
MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER, WHICH ONLY HAS 83,000/MILES, STARTED EXPERIENCING TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING. IN CONDUCTING RESEARCH, THESE SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH RESULTS IN A $1,700.00-TO-$2,000.00 REPAIR BILL. THE SECOND CONCERN IS THE STEERING FAILURE NOTED BY SOME COMPLAINTS, WHICH ENDANGERS EVERYONE …
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MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER, WHICH ONLY HAS 83,000/MILES, STARTED EXPERIENCING TIGHTNESS IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING. IN CONDUCTING RESEARCH, THESE SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH RESULTS IN A $1,700.00-TO-$2,000.00 REPAIR BILL. THE SECOND CONCERN IS THE STEERING FAILURE NOTED BY SOME COMPLAINTS, WHICH ENDANGERS EVERYONE WITHIN THE VICINITY TIME THE POINT OF FAILURE. IF IT IS SO COMMON, AND COULD RESULT IN A SERIOUS INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, WHY IS THIS NOT BEING RECALLED?
NHTSA ODI #11403024
120,000 miles · Mar 6, 2021
Steering
THIS OCCURRED FIRST IN OUR DRIVEWAY, FIRST STARTUP IN THE MORNING STEERING WHEEL WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. I JERKED IT LEFT AND RIGHT A FEW TIMES AND IT EVENTUALLY TURNED AS IT SHOULD. NO ABNORMAL LIGHTS ON DASH TO INDICATE ANY PROBLEMS. THIS GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE EACH MORNING UNTIL FREEZING UP COMPLETELY,EVEN WITH THE FRONT WHE…
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THIS OCCURRED FIRST IN OUR DRIVEWAY, FIRST STARTUP IN THE MORNING STEERING WHEEL WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO TURN. I JERKED IT LEFT AND RIGHT A FEW TIMES AND IT EVENTUALLY TURNED AS IT SHOULD. NO ABNORMAL LIGHTS ON DASH TO INDICATE ANY PROBLEMS. THIS GOT PROGRESSIVELY WORSE EACH MORNING UNTIL FREEZING UP COMPLETELY,EVEN WITH THE FRONT WHEELS OFF THE GROUND STEERING WILL NOT BUDGE. I AM TOLD BY THE FORD DEALER HERE THAT THIS VEHICLE IS NOT ON RECALL LIST.
NHTSA ODI #11399474
60,000 miles · Mar 6, 2021
Steering
ABOUT A YEAR AEGO MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHENEVER I TURNED THE WHEEL BOTH PARKED OR MOVING. SINCE THEN IT HAS PROGRESSED INTO A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE WHEEL IS STICKING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I HAVE TO FORCE IT TO MOVE AT TIMES. IT DOES NOT RETURN FREELY ANYMORE ON IT"S OWN TO A STRAIGHT FORWARD POS…
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ABOUT A YEAR AEGO MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHENEVER I TURNED THE WHEEL BOTH PARKED OR MOVING. SINCE THEN IT HAS PROGRESSED INTO A LOUD GRINDING NOISE. THE WHEEL IS STICKING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I HAVE TO FORCE IT TO MOVE AT TIMES. IT DOES NOT RETURN FREELY ANYMORE ON IT"S OWN TO A STRAIGHT FORWARD POSITION. AFTER HAVING THE CAR IN AT CHAPMAN FORD, EGG HARBOR NJ, THEY TOLD ME IT"S DANGERIOUS AND I COULD LOOSE MY STEERING ENTIRELY WHILE DRIVING AND TO HAVE THE RACK AND PINION REPLACED. I CAN SEE THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL AND THERE WAS A SIMILIAR RECALL A FEW YEARS PRIOR FOR A SIMILAR PROBLEM. I DON"T THINK THE PROPER IMPROVEMENTS TO THE RACK AND PINION WHERE EVER APPLIED IN LATER MODELS AND THERE SHOULD BE ANOTHER RECALL OR THE PRIOR RECALL SHOULD BE EXTENDED. THANK YOU
NHTSA ODI #11399460
120,000 miles · Feb 17, 2021
Steering
WHILE DRIVING EITHER ON THE HIGHWAY OR ON CITY STREETS WHEN TURNING A CORNER OR A CURVE THE STEERING CATCHES AND MAKES ME SWERVE THE CAR. MY MECHANIC SAYS THE ELECTRONIC STEERING WENT OUT SO THE GEARS ARE CATCHING AND I'M LUCKY I DIDN'T CRASH THE CAR!
NHTSA ODI #11396633
44,000 miles · Feb 16, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A FRIEND WHO USED A MACHINE THAT SHOWED AN INTERNAL ELECTR…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT THEN STATED THAT EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A FRIEND WHO USED A MACHINE THAT SHOWED AN INTERNAL ELECTRONIC FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD ALSO TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO AUTONATION FORD WHITE BEAR LAKE (1493 CO RD E EAST, WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110) WHERE AN APPOINTMENT WAS MADE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 44,000.
NHTSA ODI #11396457
135,000 miles · Feb 6, 2021
Electrical SystemForward Collision AvoidanceSteering
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY MY 2014 EXPLORER ALERTED ME IN THE DRIVER INFORMATION SECTION LOCATED TO THE LEFT OF THE ODOMETER THAT MY 'STEERING LOSS STOP SAFETY' WAS UNAVAILABLE. IN ADDITION TO THIS, IT DISPLAYED, 'SERVICE ADVANCETRAC' AND 'COLLISON WARNING NOT AVAILABLE'. MOMENTS LATER MY STEERING LOCKED UP AND I WAS UNABLE T…
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WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY MY 2014 EXPLORER ALERTED ME IN THE DRIVER INFORMATION SECTION LOCATED TO THE LEFT OF THE ODOMETER THAT MY 'STEERING LOSS STOP SAFETY' WAS UNAVAILABLE. IN ADDITION TO THIS, IT DISPLAYED, 'SERVICE ADVANCETRAC' AND 'COLLISON WARNING NOT AVAILABLE'. MOMENTS LATER MY STEERING LOCKED UP AND I WAS UNABLE TO TURN OR CONTROL THE WHEEL. WE SAT STRANDED, WITH OUR THREE CHILDREN ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY FOR HOURS UNTIL HELP COULD COME. WHILE OPERATING MY VEHICLE AT 70 MPH, I LOST COMPLETE CONTROL OF MY STEERING MAKING THIS EXTREMELY UNSAFE FOR MY FAMILY AND I, AND THE DRIVERS SURROUNDING US. AFTER SOME DISCUSSION WITH OUR MECHANIC, WE BELIEVE IT COULD BE THE STEERING ANGLE SENSOR, YAW RATE SENSOR OR ANYTHING DIRECTLY RELATED TO STEERING AND/OR TRACTION CONTROL. MY CAR WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP AND IS AWAITING A REPAIR QUOTE.
NHTSA ODI #11394999
153 miles · Jan 31, 2021
EngineSteering
I HAD TOOK MY TRUCK TO A NEARBY FORD DEALERSHIP FOR A RECALL WITH THE TOE LINK TO BE REPAIRED AND YESTERDAY ON 01/30/2021 I WAS DRIVING AND THE ENGINE AND STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING ENGINE SOUNDS LIKE IT'S ABOUT TO DROP THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET AND ONCE I HIT THE HIGHWAY AND I STARTED TO DRIVE OVER 50 MIL…
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I HAD TOOK MY TRUCK TO A NEARBY FORD DEALERSHIP FOR A RECALL WITH THE TOE LINK TO BE REPAIRED AND YESTERDAY ON 01/30/2021 I WAS DRIVING AND THE ENGINE AND STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING ENGINE SOUNDS LIKE IT'S ABOUT TO DROP THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET AND ONCE I HIT THE HIGHWAY AND I STARTED TO DRIVE OVER 50 MILES IT MADE IT WORST, MY TRUCK WAS DRIVING PERFECTLY FINE BEFORE I TOOK IT IN TO HAVE THAT RECALL REPAIRED.
NHTSA ODI #11390841
Mileage unknown · Jan 29, 2021
SteeringSuspension
CONTACTED FORD DEALERSHIP ABOUT RECALL EFFECTING STEERING. WAS TOLD BY DEALERSHIP THAT THE PART WOULD NOT BE IN FOR 3 TO 4 WEEKS. CONTACTED FORD MOTOR DIRECTLY AND THEY ASKED WAS I EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS AND I TOLD THEM THAT MY VEHICLE HAD FELT LIKE ITS SHIFTING SIDE TO SIDE WHEN I DRIVE. FORD REP TOLD ME THAT I WOULD NEED TO …
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CONTACTED FORD DEALERSHIP ABOUT RECALL EFFECTING STEERING. WAS TOLD BY DEALERSHIP THAT THE PART WOULD NOT BE IN FOR 3 TO 4 WEEKS. CONTACTED FORD MOTOR DIRECTLY AND THEY ASKED WAS I EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS AND I TOLD THEM THAT MY VEHICLE HAD FELT LIKE ITS SHIFTING SIDE TO SIDE WHEN I DRIVE. FORD REP TOLD ME THAT I WOULD NEED TO TAKE MY CAR TO PAY FOR A DIAGNOSTIC. I QUESTIONED WHY DID I NEED TO PAY FOR A DIAGNOSTIC WHEN THE FAILURE OF THE COMPANY TO HAVE THE RECALLED PART IN STOCK IS FORCING ME TO HAVE A DIAGNOSTIC DONE. IF THE PART WAS IN STOCK AND I WAS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE I WOULD HAVE MY VEHICLE CHECKED AT MY LOCAL MECHANIC SHOP THAT DOESN'T PAY CHARGE TO DIAGNOSE A VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11390660
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.
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