NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
496 reportsClear category filter100,000 miles · Nov 17, 2020
SteeringSuspensionWheels
HI MY NAME IS [XXX]. I PURCHASED THIS 2014 FORD EXPLORER FROM A CERTIFIED FORD GARAGE MECHANIC THIS SUMMER. THE PRIVATE PARTY PURCHASE WAS IN JUNE 2020 WITH 89,XXX MILES. THE SELLER SHOWED ME EVERY REPAIR, OIL CHANGE, BRAKES ETC. WERE DONE IN A FORD GARAGE. TEN THOUSAND MILES LATER THE VEHICLE SNAPPED A TOE LINK LATERAL ARM …
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HI MY NAME IS [XXX]. I PURCHASED THIS 2014 FORD EXPLORER FROM A CERTIFIED FORD GARAGE MECHANIC THIS SUMMER. THE PRIVATE PARTY PURCHASE WAS IN JUNE 2020 WITH 89,XXX MILES. THE SELLER SHOWED ME EVERY REPAIR, OIL CHANGE, BRAKES ETC. WERE DONE IN A FORD GARAGE. TEN THOUSAND MILES LATER THE VEHICLE SNAPPED A TOE LINK LATERAL ARM DRIVING DOWN A SMOOTH HIGHWAY 60MPH! THE VEHICLE SWERVED AND MY WIFE AND 2 YOUNG KIDS WERE IN DANGER.. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED, FOR THE WHEEL WAS TIPPED IN AND NOT STABLE...FLAT BED TOW $100 OUT OF POCKET... FORD OF HIBBING DEALER SAID THE VEHICLE WAS NOT RECALLED AND THEY WOULDN'T HAVE TIME TO REPAIR FOR OVER A MONTH.. THEY SOLD ME THE FACTORY FORD TOE LINK THAT WAS THE "FIX" UPGRADE... WITH ALL THE DEALERS AND LOCAL AUTO SHOPS WAY WAY BEHIND AND SHORT HANDED I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED AGAIN FOR $100 OUT OF POCKET TO MY GARAGE.. I WENT TO TECH SCHOOL OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL FOR AUTO MECHANIC AND RECEIVED A 2 YEAR DEGREE AND PREVIOUSLY WAS A AUTO MECHANIC FOR 10 PLUS YEARS.. ANYWAYS BEYOND THAT POINT I REPLACED THE TOE LINK IN MY SHOP AND INSPECTED OTHER POINTS.. AFTER I REPLACED THE LINK I WAS ABLE TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A LOCAL TIRE AND ALIGNMENT SHOP IN HIBBING MN (IRON RANGE TIRE) WHICH THEY THAN PROFESSIONALLY ALIGNED AND TIGHTENED THE REAR SUSPENSION. 100 MILES LATER HAPPENS AGAIN TO MY WIFE AND KIDS DOWN THE HIGHWAY!! TOWED AGAIN $100! CURRENTLY AT LUNDGREN FORD DEALER EVELETH MN. $2800 TO REPLACE AND REPAIR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS! FILED A FORD CASE # [XXX]. FORD REFUSED TO COOPERATE OR POSSIBLY PAY FOR REPAIR! THE SERVICE DEPT MANAGER SAID THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED REGULARLY AT THAT SHOP AND SAID SERVICE RECORDS SHOW THE COMPLETE REAR SUSPENSION WAS REPLACED IN 2019!! 20,000 MILES AGO! AND ITS ALREADY BREAKING AGAIN! ITS UNSAFE FOR MY WIFE AND 4 & 6YR OLD BOYS! PLEASE HELP! IM SERIOUSLY NOT WASTING TIME! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
NHTSA ODI #11375038
93,000 miles · Nov 10, 2020
Steering
AS I WAS DRIVING, THANKFULLY AT A SLOW SPEED, AND MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN THERE WAS A COMPLETE FAILURE OF POWER STEERING. I LOSS COMPLETE CONTROL OF STEERING AND WENT INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. WHEN FAILURE OCCURRED, SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS SIMULTANEOUSLY POPPED UP BUT AS I WAS UNDER THE DURESS OF TRYING TO AVOID A COLLISION, I DO…
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AS I WAS DRIVING, THANKFULLY AT A SLOW SPEED, AND MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN THERE WAS A COMPLETE FAILURE OF POWER STEERING. I LOSS COMPLETE CONTROL OF STEERING AND WENT INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. WHEN FAILURE OCCURRED, SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS SIMULTANEOUSLY POPPED UP BUT AS I WAS UNDER THE DURESS OF TRYING TO AVOID A COLLISION, I DO NOT HAVE A COMPLETE LIST BUT I DID SEE THE STEERING ASSIST SYSTEM FAILURE AND REQUIRES SERVICE ALL BLINKING RED. THERE WERE NO ADVERSE ROAD CONDITIONS NOR DRIVING STYLE AND ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING WHATSOEVER. THE VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 93,000 MILES. I HAD TO COVER THE COST TO TOW THE CAR TO A FORD DEALER SHOP AND THEY TELL ME THAT THE ISSUE CANNOT BE REPLICATED BUT THEY BELIEVE IT IS A RACK AND PINION AND STEERING/COLUMN FAILURE AND ARE QUOTING ME OVER 2500 FOR REPAIRS. AS THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN HAPPENING TO HUNDRED IF NOT THOUSANDS OF OWNERS OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL, YEARS 2011-2014 AND 2015-2017 (IF NOT LATER) FALL UNDER THIS SAME FAILURE RECALL, THIS MATTER NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY. I FEAR GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL OF THIS CAR AND AM LUCKY THAT I DID NOT CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT DUE TO THIS VEHICLE FAILURE.
NHTSA ODI #11374049
55,000 miles · Nov 10, 2020
Steering
I WENT TO GET IN MY CAR TO GET GROCERIES AND WHEN I WENT TO TURN INTO THE PARKING LOT MY STEERING FELT LIKE I WAS TURNING A TRUCK WITH NO POWER STEERING.I CALLED MY CAR DEALER AND HE TOLD ME THAT THERE IS NO RECALL ON MY CAR BUT THE YEARS BEFORE AND AFTER THE YEAR OF MY CAR , THEY HAVE RECALLS ON THIS PROBLEM. I ONLY HAVE 55,000…
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I WENT TO GET IN MY CAR TO GET GROCERIES AND WHEN I WENT TO TURN INTO THE PARKING LOT MY STEERING FELT LIKE I WAS TURNING A TRUCK WITH NO POWER STEERING.I CALLED MY CAR DEALER AND HE TOLD ME THAT THERE IS NO RECALL ON MY CAR BUT THE YEARS BEFORE AND AFTER THE YEAR OF MY CAR , THEY HAVE RECALLS ON THIS PROBLEM. I ONLY HAVE 55,000 MI. ON IT.THEY SAID IT WOULD COST $2,500 TO FIX. I CAN'T AFFORD IT BEING RETIRED NOW AND CAN'T AFFORD A NEW ONE.
NHTSA ODI #11373991
150,000 miles · Nov 9, 2020
Steering
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO TAKE A SLIGHT RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE DID NOT TURN AT FIRST. IT CONTINUED STRAIGHT FOR A SECOND. THEN IT SEAM LIKE THE STEERING JUMPED AND CAUGHT A GEAR. THE VEHICLE THEN TURNED TO THE RIGHT. I WAS TRAVELING AT AROUND 25 MPH
NHTSA ODI #11373839
123,000 miles · Oct 22, 2020
Steering
THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, LUCKILY AT LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE STEERING FAILED COMPLETELY, VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY BECAME UNABLE TO STEER (THIS WAS NOT LOSS OF POWER STEERING, IT WAS LOSS OF STEERING COMPLETELY). SEVERAL WARNINGS IMMEDIATELY POPPED UP INCLUDING STEERING ASSIST SYSTEM FAILURE, SERVICE REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY. UPON INVESTIG…
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THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, LUCKILY AT LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE STEERING FAILED COMPLETELY, VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY BECAME UNABLE TO STEER (THIS WAS NOT LOSS OF POWER STEERING, IT WAS LOSS OF STEERING COMPLETELY). SEVERAL WARNINGS IMMEDIATELY POPPED UP INCLUDING STEERING ASSIST SYSTEM FAILURE, SERVICE REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY. UPON INVESTIGATION IT APPEARS THIS ISSUE WAS COVERED (VIA RECALL) IN YEAR MODELS 2011-2013 AND 2015-2017. FOR SOME REASON VIN'S FROM 2014 WERE OMITTED FROM THE RECALL YET I AM FAR FROM THE ONLY PERSON EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE WITH THESE 2014 MODELS. WE LOVE OUR EXPLORER BUT I AM AFRAID TO LET MY WIFE OR DAUGHTER DRIVE IT NOW. THE REPAIR IS GOING TO COST ME APPROX $3,000 PLUS THE COST OF HAVING IT TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY FORD AND NHTSA AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THIS YEAR MODEL BEING OMITTED FROM THIS RECALL IS AN INCREDIBLE OVERSIGHT. MY EXPLORER HAD 123,000 MILES AT THE TIME OF FAILURE. AT THE TIME OF FAILURE THERE WAS NO EXCESSIVE FORCE OR HARSH DRIVING CONDITIONS BEING USED.
NHTSA ODI #11365756
77,000 miles · Oct 7, 2020
Steering
POWER STEERING FAILED WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BE EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. MULTIPLE WARNING MESSAGES APPEAR IN THE DASH UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE. THIS APPEARS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THE POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE. THERE IS A RECALL FOR PREVIOUS YEAR MODELS OF THIS CAR WITH THE SAME S…
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POWER STEERING FAILED WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BE EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. MULTIPLE WARNING MESSAGES APPEAR IN THE DASH UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE. THIS APPEARS TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THE POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE. THERE IS A RECALL FOR PREVIOUS YEAR MODELS OF THIS CAR WITH THE SAME STEERING SYSTEM.
NHTSA ODI #11363221
76,000 miles · Sep 28, 2020
Steering
LOST POWER STEERING WHILE OPERATING VEHICLE. ADVANCETRAC AND POWER STEERING ASSIST CODES BOTH CAME ON. VERY DANGEROUS AND STEERING GEAR BOX HAS BEEN RECALLED IN PRIOR AND LATER MODELS BUT NOT THE 2014 MODEL. COST OF REPAIR CLOSE TO 2000 DOLLARS FOR A VEHICLE PART THEY HAVE CLEARLY HAD ISSUES WITH.
NHTSA ODI #11361551
132,000 miles · Sep 16, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITH THE STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE WARNING LIGHT INDICATED FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER IN MIAMI, FLORIDA, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE RACK …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITH THE STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE WARNING LIGHT INDICATED FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER IN MIAMI, FLORIDA, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE RACK & PINION MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH THE SAME FAILURE THE DEALER DIAGNOSED EARLIER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT SUBJECTED TO A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 132,000.
NHTSA ODI #11355356
186,000 miles · Sep 8, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING, THE STEERING POWER ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INDICATING A NEED FOR SERVICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS WIFE ALMOST CRASHED THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE POWER STEERING SEIZING …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING, THE STEERING POWER ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INDICATING A NEED FOR SERVICE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS WIFE ALMOST CRASHED THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE POWER STEERING SEIZING WHILE SHE WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT, WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED HAAG FORD SALES, INC (405 E EADS PKWY, GREENDALE, IN 47025) AND INFORMED THE DEALER OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEIR ENGINEER WOULD INSPECT THE VEHICLE BUT, OFFERED NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 186,000.
NHTSA ODI #11353638
Mileage unknown · Sep 7, 2020
Steering
WHEN I WENT TO TURN OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY I NOTICED THE STEERING GOT REALLY HARD TO TURN. TURNING AT CORNERS THE STEERING IS HARD AND OCCASIONALLY PULLS BACK/JERKS.
NHTSA ODI #11353607
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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