NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
496 reportsClear category filter73,200 miles · Apr 23, 2019
Steering
I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY ON APR 21ST AND THE STEERING WHEEL FELT A LITTLE SENSESTIVE/ARTFICAL BUT IT WAS WINDY OUT SO I THOUGHT IT WAS MAYBE DUE TO THE CONDITIONS OUTSIDE. SO WE TRAVELED ABOUT 30 MINUTES THEN THE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON STATING "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY" CAME ON WHICH WAS A SHOCKING SO WE PULLED OVER TO CHECK FOR ISS…
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I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY ON APR 21ST AND THE STEERING WHEEL FELT A LITTLE SENSESTIVE/ARTFICAL BUT IT WAS WINDY OUT SO I THOUGHT IT WAS MAYBE DUE TO THE CONDITIONS OUTSIDE. SO WE TRAVELED ABOUT 30 MINUTES THEN THE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON STATING "STEERING LOSS STOP SAFELY" CAME ON WHICH WAS A SHOCKING SO WE PULLED OVER TO CHECK FOR ISSUES. AT THIS TIME THE STEERING WAS STILL OK JUST JUST TOUCHY, SO I RESTARTED THE CAR THINKING IT WOULD RESET THE COMPONENTS THAT WAS MAYBE THROWING THE MESSAGES, THE RED WARNING WENT AWAY BUT WAS RETURENED BY THE SAME MESSAGE AS WE PULLED IN TO THE DRIVEWAY OF MY HOME BUT AT THE SUGGESTION OF THE DEALERSHIP THEY ASKED THAT I REMOVE THE BATTERY FOR 1 HOUR TO SEE IF THE COMPONENTS WOULD RESET DUE TO THAT BUT DID NOT HELP THINGS AT ALL SO I HAD TO BRING IT IN ON 4-20 WHICH THEY INFORMED ME OF THE $2K BILL TO FIX WHICH IF YOU DO RESEARCH IS A HIGHLY COMMON ISSUE WITH-IN THE F-150, EXPLORER AND FLEX LINE UPS. SO MY QUESTION, WHY IS FORD NOT OFFERING TO FIX AN ISSUE WHICH CLEARLY MAKE THE CAR TOTALLY UN-SAFE AND UN-DRIVEIBLE?
NHTSA ODI #11203204
34,200 miles · Apr 18, 2019
Steering
I STARTED TO LISTEN A NOISE WHEN I TURNED RIGHT WITHOUT ANY ADVICE ON BOARD. CAUSE THE NOISE (IT WAS INCREASING) I DECIDED TO GO TO FORD SERVICE CENTER (FORCENTER) AND THEY TOLD ME THAT I HAVE TO CHANGE ALL STEERING SYSTEM WITH A COST OF USD 3000. THIS KIND OF FAILURE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE FOR A CAR OF THESE SKILLS, MY CAR HAS ONLY …
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I STARTED TO LISTEN A NOISE WHEN I TURNED RIGHT WITHOUT ANY ADVICE ON BOARD. CAUSE THE NOISE (IT WAS INCREASING) I DECIDED TO GO TO FORD SERVICE CENTER (FORCENTER) AND THEY TOLD ME THAT I HAVE TO CHANGE ALL STEERING SYSTEM WITH A COST OF USD 3000. THIS KIND OF FAILURE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE FOR A CAR OF THESE SKILLS, MY CAR HAS ONLY 55.000 KMS AND ONLY IT WAS USED ON THE CITY AND WHEN THE MAIN ARGUMENT OF SALE IS THE SAFETY. READING OTHER USERS, IT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE THAT A FAILURE LIKE THAT IT MUST CONSIDERED ONLY AN USER PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #11197172
64,415 miles · Apr 18, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE STEERING ABILITY BECAME VERY DIFFICULT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WORSENED AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY CLOSE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO TURN AT ALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING.…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE STEERING ABILITY BECAME VERY DIFFICULT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WORSENED AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY CLOSE TO NOT BEING ABLE TO TURN AT ALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,415.
NHTSA ODI #11197111
140,000 miles · Apr 17, 2019
Steering
WHEN DRIVING, THE WHEEL WOULD BE HARD TO TURN SOMETIMES. IT STARTED OCCASIONALLY BUT NOW THE POWER STEERING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM AND TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND IT IS THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING MODULE. THIS PART HAS BEEN RECALLED ON ALL NEWER MODELS OF THE FORD E…
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WHEN DRIVING, THE WHEEL WOULD BE HARD TO TURN SOMETIMES. IT STARTED OCCASIONALLY BUT NOW THE POWER STEERING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM AND TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND IT IS THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING MODULE. THIS PART HAS BEEN RECALLED ON ALL NEWER MODELS OF THE FORD EXPLORER EXCEPT 2014. THIS HAS CAUSED SEVERAL ACCIDENTS WITH OTHER OWNERS OF THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER AS AT SOME POINT, THE STEERING STOPS WORKING COMPLETELY. FORD HAS HEARD COMPLAINTS FROM SEVERAL OWNERS WITH NO RESPONSE. THIS IS A $2500.00 FIX THAT I CAN'T AFFORD. I HAVE A WARRANTY ON MY VEHICLE, HOWEVER THIS PART IS NOT COVERED, OF COURSE. A $20,000 VEHICLE SHOULD NOT HAVE PROBLEMS LIKE THIS. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT PUTS ME AND MY CHILDREN IN DANGER.
NHTSA ODI #11196951
693,067 miles · Mar 28, 2019
Steering
WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP WHEN STARTING THE CAR TO DRIVE. LIGHT CAME ON STATING STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS 69,306.7 MILES ON IT AND IS ONLY USED TO GO BACK AND FORTH TO WORK AND WAS PURCHASED IN SEPTEMBER 2014 AND NOW IT IS MARCH 2019. TOOK TO FORD DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND WAS TOLD THAT IT IS TH…
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WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP WHEN STARTING THE CAR TO DRIVE. LIGHT CAME ON STATING STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS 69,306.7 MILES ON IT AND IS ONLY USED TO GO BACK AND FORTH TO WORK AND WAS PURCHASED IN SEPTEMBER 2014 AND NOW IT IS MARCH 2019. TOOK TO FORD DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND WAS TOLD THAT IT IS THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING RACK AND WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AND WOULD COST ME OVER $2,000.00 TO FIX. IT HAS TO BE FIXED BECAUSE ITS A SAFETY ISSUE AND THIS VEHICLE IS USED TO TRANSPORT MY CHILDREN. FORD NEEDS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS AND RECALL DUE TO BEING A SAFETY HAZARD. WHAT IF I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE STEERING LOCKED UP, OR IF MY TEENAGE DAUGHTER THAT JUST GOT HER LICENSE AND IS AN INEXPERIENCED DRIVER WAS DRIVING THIS CAR AND THE STEERING LOCKED UP?THIS COULD BE FATAL.
NHTSA ODI #11192265
70 miles · Mar 28, 2019
Steering
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING SYSTEM FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE STEERING TOOK MUCH MORE MUSCLE TO MANEUVER, AND WAS A LOT LESS RESPONSIVE. THERE WAS NO INDICATION ON THE DASH THAT ANYTHING OCCURRED. IN THE DAYS FOLLOWING THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM INTERMITTENTLY KICKED IN AND BACK OUT, MAKING IT HARD…
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WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING SYSTEM FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE STEERING TOOK MUCH MORE MUSCLE TO MANEUVER, AND WAS A LOT LESS RESPONSIVE. THERE WAS NO INDICATION ON THE DASH THAT ANYTHING OCCURRED. IN THE DAYS FOLLOWING THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM INTERMITTENTLY KICKED IN AND BACK OUT, MAKING IT HARD TO STEER CONSISTENTLY AND REQUIRING MUCH MORE ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE HAS STILL NEVER PROVIDED ANY INDICATION THAT THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM HAS BEEN COMPROMISED. IN READING ABOUT THIS FAILURE IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF THIS VEHICLE WERE RECALLED FOR STEERING FAILURES AS WELL.
NHTSA ODI #11192097
78,000 miles · Mar 14, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION, A CLUNKING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME MORE DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BANNER FORD (1943 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD, MANDEVILLE, LA) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS TURNED IN EITHER DIRECTION, A CLUNKING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME MORE DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BANNER FORD (1943 N. CAUSEWAY BLVD, MANDEVILLE, LA) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL GEAR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
NHTSA ODI #11186720
88,000 miles · Mar 11, 2019
SteeringTraction Control System
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE POWER STEERING ASSIST AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE INTO A DRIVEWAY AND POWERED OFF THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TH…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE POWER STEERING ASSIST AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE INTO A DRIVEWAY AND POWERED OFF THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.
NHTSA ODI #11185981
82,000 miles · Mar 4, 2019
Steering
WHILE DRIVING MY EXPLORER DOWN A CITY STREET AT APPROX 45MPH, THE STEERING BECAME EXTREMELY TIGHT. A WARNING LIGHT SAYING 'STEERING ASSIST FAULT' CAME IN AND THEN THE 'TRACTION CONTROL OFF' LIGHT CAME ON. IMMEDIATELY AFTER BOTH OF THOSE LIGHTS CAME ON A RED LIGHT CAME ON SAYING 'STEERING FAILURE SERVICE REQUIRED' CAME ON AND I C…
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WHILE DRIVING MY EXPLORER DOWN A CITY STREET AT APPROX 45MPH, THE STEERING BECAME EXTREMELY TIGHT. A WARNING LIGHT SAYING 'STEERING ASSIST FAULT' CAME IN AND THEN THE 'TRACTION CONTROL OFF' LIGHT CAME ON. IMMEDIATELY AFTER BOTH OF THOSE LIGHTS CAME ON A RED LIGHT CAME ON SAYING 'STEERING FAILURE SERVICE REQUIRED' CAME ON AND I COMPLETELY LOST THE ABILITY TO STEER THE SUV. I MANAGED TO GET IT OFF THE ROAD SAFELY AND STOPPED. THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD NOT TURN AT ALL. I CONTACTED THE FORD DEALERSHIP NEAR ME AND TOLD THEM WHAT HAPPENED. THEY SAID THERE IS A RECALL ON 2011-2013 AND 2015-2017 FORD EXPLORERS BUT NOT THE 2014 AND WHAT I WAS DESCRIBING IS WHAT HAPPENS TO THE OTHER MODELS YEARS UNDER RECALL. THERE NEEDS TO BE A RECALL ON THE 2014 EXPLORERS FOR THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY AS WITH THE SURROUNDING MODEL YEARS. HAD I BEEN A LESS EXPERIENCED DRIVER THIS WOULD HAVE CAUSED A CRASH AND COULD HAVE INJURED OR KILLED MYSELF OR OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROAD. THE FAILURE OF THIS SYSTEM IS DANGEROUS TO NOT ONLY THE DRIVER BUT TO OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROAD.
NHTSA ODI #11184044
78,902 miles · Feb 28, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE POWER ASSIST FAILURE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND MANAGED TO DRIVE HOME. COURTESY FORD (6393 US-98 W, HATTIESBURG, MS 39402, (609) 264-5555) WAS CONTACTED TO SCHE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE POWER ASSIST FAILURE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND MANAGED TO DRIVE HOME. COURTESY FORD (6393 US-98 W, HATTIESBURG, MS 39402, (609) 264-5555) WAS CONTACTED TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 78,902.
NHTSA ODI #11183146
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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