NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
496 reportsClear category filter40,000 miles · Sep 3, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IDLE OR WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING CEASED WITH THE STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE REQUIRED WARNING MESSAGE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON RESTART OF THE VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING RETURNED AND…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IDLE OR WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING CEASED WITH THE STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE REQUIRED WARNING MESSAGE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON RESTART OF THE VEHICLE, THE POWER STEERING RETURNED AND THE VEHICLE RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT CALLED MCCOMBS FORD WEST (7111 NORTHWEST LOOP 410, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78238) AND MAC HAIK'S SOUTHWAY FORD (7979 INTERSTATE 35 ACCESS RD, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78224) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS THEN REFERRED TO THE MANUFACTURER WHO ALSO INFORMED HIM THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000.
NHTSA ODI #11352990
36,000 miles · Sep 2, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN WHILE DRIVING AND MAKING TURNS. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN WHILE DRIVING AND MAKING TURNS. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 36,000.
NHTSA ODI #11352700
118,648 miles · Aug 15, 2020
Steering
WAS DRIVING UP A HILL GOING AROUND CORNER AND STEERING FAILED NEARLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT . THERE WAS NO WARNING AND THE STEERING JERKED TO THE LEFT IN A RIGHT HAND TURN. WAS BARELY ABLE TO CONTROL VEHICLE . I AM A FAIRLY MUSCULAR PERSON AND IT TOOK EVERYTHING TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. WAS BARELY ABLE TO GET VEHICLE HOME LUCKILY I …
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WAS DRIVING UP A HILL GOING AROUND CORNER AND STEERING FAILED NEARLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT . THERE WAS NO WARNING AND THE STEERING JERKED TO THE LEFT IN A RIGHT HAND TURN. WAS BARELY ABLE TO CONTROL VEHICLE . I AM A FAIRLY MUSCULAR PERSON AND IT TOOK EVERYTHING TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. WAS BARELY ABLE TO GET VEHICLE HOME LUCKILY I WAS ONLY A COUPLE MILES FROM HOME. AN AVERAGE PERSON WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE AND AN ACCIDENT WOULD LIKELY HAPPEN . UNDER RESEARCH WITH FORD WITH ELECTRONIC STEERING THIS IS HAPPENING REGULARLY AND ACCIDENTS ARE HAPPENING.THERE IS NO WARNING AND THE STEERING WHEEL GETS JERKED TO ONE SIDE OR THE OTHER WITH VERY LITTLE CONTROL ON THE VEHICLE.THE VEHICLE I WAS DRIVING WAS MOVING WHEN THIS OCCURRED.
NHTSA ODI #11349571
125,000 miles · Aug 13, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING LOCKED IN POSITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WAS ALSO DIFFICULT TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE DEALER TED RUSSELL FORD …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING LOCKED IN POSITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT WAS ALSO DIFFICULT TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS NEEDED TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE DEALER TED RUSSELL FORD LINCOLN - ADDRESS: 9925 PARKSIDE DR, KNOXVILLE, TN 37922, PHONE: (865) 251-3673) WHO STATED THAT THE RACK AND PINION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V286000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
NHTSA ODI #11349003
50,000 miles · Aug 12, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE POWER STEERING CEASED TO OPERATE AS AN UNKNOWN WARNING MESSAGE APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO ALL AMERICAN FORD IN POINT PLEASANT (3306 BRIDGE AVE, POINT PLEASANT, NJ 08742) WHERE HE LEFT THE VEHICL…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE POWER STEERING CEASED TO OPERATE AS AN UNKNOWN WARNING MESSAGE APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO ALL AMERICAN FORD IN POINT PLEASANT (3306 BRIDGE AVE, POINT PLEASANT, NJ 08742) WHERE HE LEFT THE VEHICLE THERE TO BE INSPECTED AND REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS LATER INFORMED THAT HIS STEERING RACK MODULE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT REACHED OUT TO THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS GIVEN A CASE NUMBER. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD CALL HIM BACK. THE CONTACT HAD YET TO HEAR BACK FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 50,000.
NHTSA ODI #11348859
120,000 miles · Aug 11, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL CEASED AS THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM, STEERING ASSIST FAILURE, AND THE SERVICE ADVANCED TRACK WARNING MESSAGES APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE HOWEVER, THE FAILURE P…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL CEASED AS THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM, STEERING ASSIST FAILURE, AND THE SERVICE ADVANCED TRACK WARNING MESSAGES APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A RELATIVE'S HOUSE. THE CONTACT SPOKE TO CECIL ATKISSION FORD LINCOLN (2700 VETERANS BLVD, DEL RIO, TX 78840) WHERE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS THEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND WAS GIVEN THE SAME INFORMATION AS THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS THEN REFERRED TO NHTSA FOR ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.
NHTSA ODI #11348647
111,000 miles · Aug 11, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CURVE OF THE ROAD AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY FAILED. NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO USE EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FORCE WHEN STEERING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING WITH THE CURVE OF THE ROAD AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY FAILED. NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY NEEDED TO USE EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FORCE WHEN STEERING THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER O'BRIEN FORD OF SHELBYVILLE (720 MT EDEN RD, SHELBYVILLE, KY 40065, (502) 633-4535) WHO STATED THAT THE GEAR ASSEMBLY STEERING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000.
NHTSA ODI #11348623
146,021 miles · Aug 9, 2020
Steering
AN ERROR COMES ON THE DASH THAT SAYS STEERING FAILURE PULLOVER SAFELY. THE WHOLE POWER STEERING IS ELECTRIC AND FORD HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM BEFORE
NHTSA ODI #11344179
115,000 miles · Aug 8, 2020
Steering
DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, ALL MY TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS CAME ON AND MY STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP. LUCKILY I WAS AT LOW SPEED AND WAS ABLE TO STOP SAFELY. I CALLED LOCAL FORD DEALER THAT TOLD ME IT WAS NOT A RECALL.
NHTSA ODI #11344022
80,000 miles · Aug 6, 2020
Steering
ONE WEEK PRIOR TO INCIDENT, THE CAR STARTED MAKING A CLICKING SOUND WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT, BOTH WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE SITTING STILL, BUT WAS MOST NOTICEABLE AT LOW SPEEDS. WE MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH FORD TO HAVE IT INSPECTED, THE FIRST AVAILABLE WAS 10 DAYS AWAY. OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS THE CLICKING SOUND…
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ONE WEEK PRIOR TO INCIDENT, THE CAR STARTED MAKING A CLICKING SOUND WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT, BOTH WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE SITTING STILL, BUT WAS MOST NOTICEABLE AT LOW SPEEDS. WE MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH FORD TO HAVE IT INSPECTED, THE FIRST AVAILABLE WAS 10 DAYS AWAY. OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS THE CLICKING SOUND INCREASED AND WAS MORE NOTICEABLE. ON THE DAY OF THE INCIDENT THE CAR WAS DRIVEN A SHORT DISTANCE, THEN PARKED. WHEN WE RETURNED TO DRIVE THE CAR AGAIN AND STARTED THE CAR THE STEERING WHEEL WAS COMPLETELY STUCK, AND COULD NOT BE TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION. IT MADE A TERRIBLE SCREECHING SOUND WHEN TRYING TO TURN THE WHEEL. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO A FORD DEALERSHIP. THEY REPLACED THE POWER CONTROL STEERING MODULE AND STEERING ASSEMBLY (RACK AND PINION). THIS IS THE SAME PART THAT WAS RECALLED ON THE 2011-2013 FORD EXPLORERS, AND FROM ONLINE RESEARCH APPEARS TO BE THE SAME PART IN THE 2014 FORD EXPLORERS. THEREFORE, THIS PART SHOULD BE RECALLED AND SHOULD BE REPLACED BY FORD AS IT IS DEFECTIVE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AS THE INABILITY TO STEER INCREASES THE RISK OF CRASH AND DEATH. IF THE WHEEL HAD LOCKED UP WHILE DRIVING WE WOULD HAVE CERTAINLY CRASHED.
NHTSA ODI #11343701
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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