NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports52,250 miles · Dec 17, 2017
Unknown Or Other
THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED ON OCTOBER 19TH. PROMPTLY AFTER PURCHASE THE SMELL OF CARBON MONOXIDE FUMES WERE DETECTED IN THE VEHICLE. WITH THE USE OF A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR THE PRESENCE OF CARBON MONOXIDE WAS CONFIRMED AND THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED. WE WERE TOLD THAT FORD WAS WORKING ON A SOLUTION. DURING A FOLLOW UP …
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THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED ON OCTOBER 19TH. PROMPTLY AFTER PURCHASE THE SMELL OF CARBON MONOXIDE FUMES WERE DETECTED IN THE VEHICLE. WITH THE USE OF A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR THE PRESENCE OF CARBON MONOXIDE WAS CONFIRMED AND THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED. WE WERE TOLD THAT FORD WAS WORKING ON A SOLUTION. DURING A FOLLOW UP CALL ON THE FIRST OF NOVEMBER WE WERE TOLD THAT THE DEALER HAD NOT BEEN PROVIDED GUIDANCE FOR A REPAIR. IN A FOLLOW UP CALL ON DECEMBER 8TH, WE WERE SCHEDULED FOR SERVICES ON DECEMBER 15TH. THE REPAIR WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. CURRENT CARBON MONOXIDE CONTINUES TO ENTER THE CABIN WITH LEVELS RECORDED AS HIGH AS 45 PPM WHEN MAX AC IS IN USE.
NHTSA ODI #11055152
59,000 miles · Dec 13, 2017
Electrical System
HEAT ON PASSENGER SIDE NOT WORKING AT ALL CAUSING THE WINDOW ON THAT SIDE TO NOT BE ABLE TO BE SEEN OUT OF WHEN DRIVING THE CAR IN THE COLD. ONLY PUT COLD AIR OUT ON THAT SIDE. SPOKE TO SOMEONE AT FORD AND WAS TOLD IT WAS A PROBLEM JUST NOT IN MY CAR YET.
NHTSA ODI #11054608
Mileage unknown · Dec 12, 2017
Air BagsElectrical System
FOR A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF THE VEHICLE'S LIFE, THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS ILLUMINATED A MAJORITY OF THE TIME. I DID NOT BELIEVE THIS WAS AN ISSUE AS I WAS INSTRUCTED THAT A LIGHT WOULD COME ON IF THE VEHICLE THOUGHT SOMETHING/SOMEONE WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, BUT DID NOT MEET MINIMUM WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS. IT HAS COME TO MY ATTENTIO…
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FOR A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF THE VEHICLE'S LIFE, THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS ILLUMINATED A MAJORITY OF THE TIME. I DID NOT BELIEVE THIS WAS AN ISSUE AS I WAS INSTRUCTED THAT A LIGHT WOULD COME ON IF THE VEHICLE THOUGHT SOMETHING/SOMEONE WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, BUT DID NOT MEET MINIMUM WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS. IT HAS COME TO MY ATTENTION WHEN MY VEHICLE WAS IN FOR A NON-RELATED REPAIR, THAT THIS IS NOT THE CASE AND THAT THE LIGHT ACTUALLY INDICATES A FAULT WITH THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. SO I HAVE BEEN DRIVING AROUND FOR PROBABLY 40,000 MILES WITH FAULTY AIRBAGS IN THE CAR IN WHICH I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER. I CALLED FORD WHO EXPRESSED LITTLE TO ZERO CONCERN UNTIL I LET THEM KNOW I WOULD BE FILING A COMPLAINT. ACCORDING TO THE DEALER, THE ISSUE IS THAT THE CONNECTORS ARE CORRODED (THE INDICATION WAS MULTIPLE CONNECTORS ARE CORRODED). THIS SEEMS LIKE A REALLY BIG ISSUE - I LIVE IN OREGON, SO NOT QUITE A DRY CLIMATE, BUT IT'S NOT ABNORMAL. THE PERSON I SPOKE TO AT FORD WAS NAMED "ANN"
NHTSA ODI #11054257
65,000 miles · Dec 7, 2017
EnginePower TrainStructure
I AM WRITING TO YOU IN REGARDS TO PHYSICAL ILLNESS THAT I HAVE SUFFERED AS WELL AS MY PASSENGERS FROM MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPTOR PACKAGE. STARTING BACK WHEN I FIRST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 59,000 MILES, I HAVE EXPERIENCED AN EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN SHORTLY AFTER ACCELERATING OVER 3,000RPMS. THIS I…
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I AM WRITING TO YOU IN REGARDS TO PHYSICAL ILLNESS THAT I HAVE SUFFERED AS WELL AS MY PASSENGERS FROM MY 2014 FORD EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPTOR PACKAGE. STARTING BACK WHEN I FIRST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AT APPROXIMATELY 59,000 MILES, I HAVE EXPERIENCED AN EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN SHORTLY AFTER ACCELERATING OVER 3,000RPMS. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN INVESTIGATED AT MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP TWICE, WITH THE TECHNICIAN CONFIRMING THE SMELL. AFTER THIS WORK WAS PERFORMED, I STILL TO THIS DAY AM SUFFERING FROM EXHAUST FUMES AND PHYSICAL ILLNESS DIRECTLY RELATED TO MY FORD EXPLORER. ALL REPAIR ORDERS FROM INVOLVED FORD DEALERSHIPS ARE IN MY POSSESSION CONFIRMING EXHAUST FUMES ARE STILL ENTERING THE CABIN. FROM THE TIME I TOOK OWNERSHIP IN OCTOBER 2016, I HAVE EXPERIENCED PHYSICAL ILLNESS WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR MORE THAN 1 HOUR AT A TIME. I GET EXTREMELY LIGHTHEADED AND NAUSEATED, WHICH HAS CAUSED ME TO FREQUENTLY STOP THE VEHICLE AND VOMIT. MY PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE HAVE ALSO EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SYMPTOMS WHEN RIDING IN THE VEHICLE. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, I STOP AT A SAFE LOCATION AND REMOVE MYSELF TO FRESH AIR, AND THE SYMPTOMS SOON PASS AND I AM ABLE TO DRIVE AGAIN. RECENTLY, I HAVE TRAVELED FROM MASSACHUSETTS TO VERMONT IN MY EXPLORER. THE MOSTLY HIGHWAY DRIVING TRIP IT WAS ME AS WELL AS MY GIRLFRIEND. AFTER AROUND AN HOUR OF DRIVING AT 60MPH, MY GIRLFRIEND AND I WERE FEELING VERY DIZZY AND BECAME NAUSEATED, SO I OPTED TO STOP AND RELAX AT A REST STOP FOR FRESH AIR PRIOR TO CONTINUING MY TRIP TO VERMONT. I HAVE INSTALLED A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR IN MY VEHICLE, WHICH HAS ACTIVATED MORE THAN ONE OCCASION WHILE DRIVING. AT THIS TIME I AM NEGOTIATING WITH FORD'S OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL TO PERFORM A BUYBACK OF MY EXPLORER AND REPLACE IT WITH A DIFFERENT VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11053333
82,000 miles · Dec 7, 2017
Engine
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE 18-MONTH OLD CHILD, WHO WAS IN A SAFETY SEAT ON THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT, BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE CONTACT CALLED 911. THE CHILD WAS TAKEN TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM WHERE THE DOCTOR RAN SEVERAL TE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE 18-MONTH OLD CHILD, WHO WAS IN A SAFETY SEAT ON THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT, BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE CONTACT CALLED 911. THE CHILD WAS TAKEN TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM WHERE THE DOCTOR RAN SEVERAL TESTS, BUT WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE WHAT HAPPENED TO THE CHILD. THE CHILD RECOVERED AND WAS RELEASED FROM THE EMERGENCY ROOM. THE CHILD WAS TAKEN BACK INTO THE VEHICLE AND, FIVE MINUTES INTO THE DRIVE BACK TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CHILD BECAME RESPONSIVE WHEN THE CONTACT ROLLED DOWN THE WINDOW. THE CHILD WAS TAKEN TO THE PEDIATRICIAN WHO RULED OUT THAT THE CHILD MIGHT HAVE SUFFERED A SEIZURE. BOTH THE MOTHER AND THE PEDIATRICIAN SUSPECTED THAT THE CHILD MIGHT HAVE SUFFERED FROM CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. THE DEALER WAS CALLED (FESLER AUTO MALL IN FAIRFIELD, IOWA, 641-472-2161), BUT DID NOT CALL BACK AS PROMISED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 82,000.
NHTSA ODI #11052989
Mileage unknown · Dec 6, 2017
Unknown Or Other
FOR THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS BOTH ME AND MY WIFE HAVE NOTICED A WEIRD SMELL COMING FROM THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER THAT WE HAVE. ALSO ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS MY WIFE HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT FEELING DIZZY AND NAUSEOUS FROM DRIVING BUT WE THOUGHT IT WAS NOTHING SERIOUS. THEN ABOUT A WEEK AGO AFTER DRIVING THE EXPLORER HOME FROM WORK MY WIFE B…
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FOR THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS BOTH ME AND MY WIFE HAVE NOTICED A WEIRD SMELL COMING FROM THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER THAT WE HAVE. ALSO ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS MY WIFE HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT FEELING DIZZY AND NAUSEOUS FROM DRIVING BUT WE THOUGHT IT WAS NOTHING SERIOUS. THEN ABOUT A WEEK AGO AFTER DRIVING THE EXPLORER HOME FROM WORK MY WIFE BEGAN TO FEEL LIGHTHEADED, NAUSEOUS AND ALMOST PASSED OUT WHILE DRIVING WITH OUR 4 YOUNG KIDS IN THE CAR. WE ENDED UP RUSHING HER TO THE HOSPITAL TO SEE WHAT HE PROBLEM WAS, WHICH WAS THE SAME DAY THAT WE RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE FROM FORD ABOUT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING THAT WAS HAPPENING IN ALL 2011-2017 FORD EXPLORER MODELS. SO WHILE SHE WAS IN THE EMERGENCY ROOM WE HAD HER BLOOD AND OXYGEN LEVELS CHECKED FOR CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING ESPECIALLY BECAUSE MY WIFE IS STILL BREASTFEEDING OUR 10 MONTHS OLD DAUGHTER. I HAVE RECENTLY TOOK MY VEHICLE TO A FORD DEALERSHIP FOR THEM TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE BUT MY REAL CONCERN IS WITH THIS ISSUE AFFECTING MILLIONS OF VEHICLES AND PEOPLE, WHAT IS THE POSSIBILITY OF THIS HAPPENING AGAIN. WE PLAN TO FOLLOW UP WITH OUR PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN TO ENSURE THAT THERE ARE NO SIGNS OF CARBON MONOXIDE BEING DETECTED WITHIN ANYONE IN MY IMMEDIATE FAMILY AS WE DRIVE THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER DAILY. I'M REACHING OUT TO FIND OUT WHAT ARE SOME OPTIONS THAT WE HAVE AS FORD CONSUMERS. I JUST PRAY THAT THERE ARE NO MORE SERIOUS HEALTH ISSUES WITH MY WIFE AND KIDS FROM THE TIMES THEY HAVE BEEN INSIDE HIS VEHICLE INHALING THESE POISONIOUS FUMES.
NHTSA ODI #11052763
24,900 miles · Dec 2, 2017
Power Train
SHORTLY AFTER LEAVING HOME, AS I WAS REACHING A MAJOR ROAD, I FELT MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY START TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND MAKE A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED TO LOSE SPEED AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE. I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN PARK AND TURN THE HAZARDS ON. THIS WAS VERY SCARY BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY VEHICLE OF MINE B…
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SHORTLY AFTER LEAVING HOME, AS I WAS REACHING A MAJOR ROAD, I FELT MY VEHICLE SUDDENLY START TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND MAKE A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE THEN STARTED TO LOSE SPEED AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE. I WAS ABLE TO PUT IT IN PARK AND TURN THE HAZARDS ON. THIS WAS VERY SCARY BECAUSE I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED ANY VEHICLE OF MINE BEHAVE THIS WAY. I LITERALLY THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO GRAB MY 3 YEAR OLD AND RUN FOR MY LIFE. I THOUGHT IT COULD EXPLODE OR CATCH FIRE OR WHO KNOWS. AT THIS POINT I JUST FELT FEAR. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT IF SOMEONE BEHIND ME WOULD'VE REAR ENDED ME. AGAIN, MY CAR STOPPED MOVING FOR NO REASON. THIS COULD POSE A MAJOR THREAT AND I WOULD RECOMMEND ACTIONS BE TAKEN TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE, I LEARNED ABOUT MANY OTHER FORD DRIVERS EXPERIENCING SIMILAR SITUATIONS INVOLVING THE THROTTLE BODY COMPONENT. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE THIS COULD BE A COLLECTIVE PROBLEM. I HOPE FORD WILL TAKE MY CONCERNS INTO CONSIDERATION TO PREVENT ANY FUTURE DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. THANK YOU.
NHTSA ODI #11052034
41,156 miles · Nov 30, 2017
Electrical System
THE DASH READS TRANSMISSION NOT IN PARK WHILE THE SHIFTER IS IN PARK POSITION. THERE IS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN REGARDING THIS ISSUE BUT THE DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR THE ISSUE DUE TO THE VEHICLE WARRANTY BEING EXPIRED. TSB 15-0047
NHTSA ODI #11051628
55,000 miles · Nov 30, 2017
Air BagsCrashInjury
THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT HAVE BEEN COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY. THE CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE PROBLEM AND FORD HAD BEEN UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE. ON NOVEMBER 27, 2017, A FORD DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED THAT THE CAR HAD A DEFECTIVE AIRBAG RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE. THE CAR HAS 60,472 MILES. THE WARRANTY EXPIRED A…
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THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT HAVE BEEN COMING ON INTERMITTENTLY. THE CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE PROBLEM AND FORD HAD BEEN UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE. ON NOVEMBER 27, 2017, A FORD DEALERSHIP IDENTIFIED THAT THE CAR HAD A DEFECTIVE AIRBAG RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE. THE CAR HAS 60,472 MILES. THE WARRANTY EXPIRED AT 60,000. FORD HAS NOT OFFERED TO EXTEND ANY SORT OF WARRANTY RELIEF EVEN THOUGH THE CAR IS 472 MILES OUTSIDE OF THE WARRANTY. MY HUSBAND WAS IN A FRONT-END COLLISION IN JULY 2017. ALTHOUGH THE CAR THAT HE HIT WAS TOTALLED, THE AIRBAGS IN OUR FORD DID NOT DEPLOY, A FACT THAT SHOCKED MANY PEOPLE CONSIDERING THE DAMAGE TO THE OTHER CAR. I AM SHOCKED THAT WHEN THE CAR WAS IN THE FORD DEALERSHIP AFTER THE ACCIDENT THAT THEY DID NOT WORK TO EXPLAIN THE AIRBAG FAILURE.
NHTSA ODI #11051548
48,000 miles · Nov 29, 2017
Unknown Or Other
OUR VEHICLE CONTAINS A COMMON BACKUP SENSOR WHICH BEEPS WHEN IT DETECTS SOMEONE BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THE SYSTEM DOESN'T WORK APPROXIMATELY 5% OF THE TIME. MY OWN BROTHER HAS THE SAME YEAR FORD EXPLORER AND HE SAYS THAT HE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. SEVERAL TIMES WE ALMOST STRUCK SOMEONE, INCLUDING A SMALL CHILD, BECAUSE THE SENSOR …
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OUR VEHICLE CONTAINS A COMMON BACKUP SENSOR WHICH BEEPS WHEN IT DETECTS SOMEONE BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THE SYSTEM DOESN'T WORK APPROXIMATELY 5% OF THE TIME. MY OWN BROTHER HAS THE SAME YEAR FORD EXPLORER AND HE SAYS THAT HE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. SEVERAL TIMES WE ALMOST STRUCK SOMEONE, INCLUDING A SMALL CHILD, BECAUSE THE SENSOR DID NOT GO OFF. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM, SO THEY COULDN'T FIX IT. THAT'S RIDICULOUS. DOES SOMEONE NEED TO DIE FOR THEM TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE A PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #11051346
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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