NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports2,000 miles · Oct 29, 2015
Engine
EXPERIENCING VERY STRONG EXHAUST / SULFUR SMELL IN CABIN AREA UPON MEDIUM TO HARD ACCELERATION. BOUGHT CAR IN SPRING OF 2014 AND NOTICED IT WITHIN THE FIRST MONTH OR TWO. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN A CAR IN FRONT OF ME, BUT THAT IS NOT THE CASE AS I HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS NUMEROUS TIMES THIS WITH NO ONE ELSE ON THE R…
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EXPERIENCING VERY STRONG EXHAUST / SULFUR SMELL IN CABIN AREA UPON MEDIUM TO HARD ACCELERATION. BOUGHT CAR IN SPRING OF 2014 AND NOTICED IT WITHIN THE FIRST MONTH OR TWO. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN A CAR IN FRONT OF ME, BUT THAT IS NOT THE CASE AS I HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS NUMEROUS TIMES THIS WITH NO ONE ELSE ON THE ROAD. IT OCCURS WHEN YOU PASS SOMEONE OR GO UP A STEEP INCLINE. WHEN TOWING MY BOAT THE SMELL IS UNBEARABLE AND YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE WINDOWS ROLLED DOWN, BUT EVEN WITH THAT IT TAKES A LONG TIME TO GET THE SMELL OUT OF THE CABIN. SITUATION OCCURS WITH THE FRESH AIR VENTS ON AND/OR THE RECIRC AIR ON ' VENT SETTING DOESN'T MATTER. I'VE BEEN PUTTING OFF GETTING THIS LOOKED AT SINCE IT SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS NO DEFINITIVE FIX, BUT SINCE THE CAR NOW HAS 29,000 MILES ON IT, I WANT IT TO GET CHECKED OUT BEFORE WARRANTY IS UP. IT IS ALARMING THAT WITH ALL THE COMPLAINTS FOR THIS HAZARDOUS/DEADLY SITUATION THAT THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL FOR A BETTER FIX THAN THE TSB.
NHTSA ODI #10787074
18,000 miles · Oct 15, 2015
Fuel/propulsion System
NASTY EXHAUST SMELL ENTERING THE CABIN WHEN MERGING ON THE INTERSTATE, DRIVING UP A LONG HILL, OR PASSING VEHICLES. THIS OCCURS WHEN HAVING TO ACCELERATE QUICKLY -- HIGH RPMS FOR EXTENDED PERIODS. SMELL APPEARS TO COME FROM BACK TO FRONT AND IS DIFFICULT TO GET RID OF. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT MAY BE OTHER VEHICLE'S EXHAUST ENTE…
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NASTY EXHAUST SMELL ENTERING THE CABIN WHEN MERGING ON THE INTERSTATE, DRIVING UP A LONG HILL, OR PASSING VEHICLES. THIS OCCURS WHEN HAVING TO ACCELERATE QUICKLY -- HIGH RPMS FOR EXTENDED PERIODS. SMELL APPEARS TO COME FROM BACK TO FRONT AND IS DIFFICULT TO GET RID OF. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT MAY BE OTHER VEHICLE'S EXHAUST ENTERING THE CABIN, HOWEVER, AFTER DRIVING LONG PERIODS IN AREAS WITH NO OTHER VEHICLES AROUND THE EXHAUST STENCH CONTINUES. NOTED METALLIC TASTE IN MOUTH AFTER SMELLING ODOR VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #10782265
23,000 miles · Oct 13, 2015
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
THE WRENCH LIGHT SHOWED ON THE DASHBOARD AND LOSS OF POWER.
NHTSA ODI #10781527
Mileage unknown · Sep 29, 2015
Fuel/propulsion System
WHEN HARD ACCELERATION OCCURS, SUCH AS ENTERING A FREEWAY OR GOING INTO PASSING GEAR TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE, THERE IS AN EXTREME ODOR - VERY SIMILAR TO ROTTEN EGG SMELL. THIS HAS OCCURRED SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS ORDERED AND PURCHASED NEW. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THIS PROBLEM, BUT AFTER BEING ON A WAITING …
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WHEN HARD ACCELERATION OCCURS, SUCH AS ENTERING A FREEWAY OR GOING INTO PASSING GEAR TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE, THERE IS AN EXTREME ODOR - VERY SIMILAR TO ROTTEN EGG SMELL. THIS HAS OCCURRED SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS ORDERED AND PURCHASED NEW. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR THIS PROBLEM, BUT AFTER BEING ON A WAITING LIST FOR OVER 4 MONTHS, WE WERE ADVISED THAT THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS FOUND. THIS VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY DRIVEN ON A DAILY BASIS, TO AND FROM WORK 37 MILES EACH WAY - IN TRAFFIC. I HAD CONTINUAL PROBLEMS WITH SMELL AND TASTE (EXACTLY THAT OF THE FUMES IN THE CABIN) UNTIL SUCH TIME THAT I BEGAN WORKING FROM HOME AND NO LONGER FORCED TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE ON A DAILY BASIS. THIS PROMPTED MY RESEARCH AND THIS COMPLAINT OF THE KNOWN ISSUE. I FIRST REPORTED THIS SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE AROUND JULY OF 2014. I DID ALSO SEND A COMPLAINT LETTER TO FORD - MORE TO THE SERVICE OF THE DEALERSHIP - HOWEVER I BELIEVE THIS ISSUE WAS IN THAT LETTER.
NHTSA ODI #10778491
21,600 miles · Sep 24, 2015
Suspension
ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2015 PICKED MY DAUGHTER UP FROM SWIM PRACTICE AT 5:50 PM THEN WE WENT TO PICK HER FRIEND UP AND WENT ON 220 TOWARDS MILL HALL TO DROP THEM OFF AT A FOOTBALL GAME, WHILE ON HIGH WAY SMELLED AN AWFUL SMELL, THOUGHT IT WAS CAR IN FRONT OF ME, WE PROCEEDED TO MILL HALL EXIT WHERE WE GOT OFF AND TOOK THEM TO CENTRAL …
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ON SEPTEMBER 17, 2015 PICKED MY DAUGHTER UP FROM SWIM PRACTICE AT 5:50 PM THEN WE WENT TO PICK HER FRIEND UP AND WENT ON 220 TOWARDS MILL HALL TO DROP THEM OFF AT A FOOTBALL GAME, WHILE ON HIGH WAY SMELLED AN AWFUL SMELL, THOUGHT IT WAS CAR IN FRONT OF ME, WE PROCEEDED TO MILL HALL EXIT WHERE WE GOT OFF AND TOOK THEM TO CENTRAL MOUNTAIN MIDDLE SCHOOL DROPPED THEM OFF TO A FOOTBALL GAME AND PROCEEDED THROUGH PARKING LOT WHICH IS 5 MPH OR LESS AND AT APPROXIMATELY 6:16 PM MY CAR LOCKED UP SKIDDED OVER TO CURB AND HIT THAT A COUPLE TIMES AND THEN ACROSS THE PARKING LOT WHERE IT STOPPED HALF IN MIDDLE OF ROAD. I WAITED 4 HOURS FOR A TOW TRUCK WHICH AS TOWED TO FORD GARAGE, NEXT DAY STATE POLICE LOOKED AT MY CAR BEFORE ANYONE ELSE AND DEFINITELY A FAULTY LOWER CONTROL ARM WHICH SNAPPED OFF.. ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2015 FORD GARAGE CALLED SAID FORD IS NOT GOING TO PAY FOR MY CAR OR LOOK AT IT AND I NEED TO CALL INTO MY INSURANCE COMPANY. ...UPDATED 12/29/15 *BF AFTER INSPECTING THE LOWER CONTROL ARM, IT APPEARED TO BE WEAK IN THE AREA OF THE BREAK. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF THE BREAK, BUT NO EVIDENCE TO INDICATE ANY DAMAGE PRIOR TO THE BREAK.
NHTSA ODI #10776247
30,004 miles · Sep 11, 2015
Steering
WE WERE DRIVING TO OUR NEW HOME FROM VISITING FAMILY AND PICKING UP THE VEHICLE. DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70+ MILES AN HOUR I NOTICED THE STEERING WAS TIGHTENING UP AND SEEMED TO BE OVERCORRECTING WHEN I TRIED TO STAY IN THE LANE. FINALLY THE ADVANCE TRAC LIGHT CAME ON AND STATED THERE WAS A STEERING FAILURE. I PULLED O…
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WE WERE DRIVING TO OUR NEW HOME FROM VISITING FAMILY AND PICKING UP THE VEHICLE. DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70+ MILES AN HOUR I NOTICED THE STEERING WAS TIGHTENING UP AND SEEMED TO BE OVERCORRECTING WHEN I TRIED TO STAY IN THE LANE. FINALLY THE ADVANCE TRAC LIGHT CAME ON AND STATED THERE WAS A STEERING FAILURE. I PULLED OVER TO A REST STOP IMMEDIATELY AND TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I RESTARTED THE VEHICLE POWER STEERING WAS COMPLETELY GONE. CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO NEAREST TOWN WHERE WE WERE STUCK FOR 4 DAYS. DEALERSHIP ENDED UP REPLACING THE POWER STEERING GEAR.
NHTSA ODI #10763247
11,642 miles · Sep 8, 2015
Steering
STEERING IS INOPERABLE. NO POWER STEERING AT ALL WHILE DRIVING. CAN NOT TURN LEFT OR RIGHT, HAVE TO PULL OVER TO BE SAFE. ERROR MESSAGE SAYS TERRAIN MANAGEMENT FAILURE AND ADVANCED TRAC SYSTEM FAILURE. DEALER REPLACED THE WHOLE POWER STEERING RACK AND RETURN MY CAR TO ME. AFTER 1 MONTH AND A HALF, LOST STEERING AGAIN ON THE ROAD…
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STEERING IS INOPERABLE. NO POWER STEERING AT ALL WHILE DRIVING. CAN NOT TURN LEFT OR RIGHT, HAVE TO PULL OVER TO BE SAFE. ERROR MESSAGE SAYS TERRAIN MANAGEMENT FAILURE AND ADVANCED TRAC SYSTEM FAILURE. DEALER REPLACED THE WHOLE POWER STEERING RACK AND RETURN MY CAR TO ME. AFTER 1 MONTH AND A HALF, LOST STEERING AGAIN ON THE ROAD. VERY DANGEROUS WHEN YOU CAN NOT TURN ON THE HIGHWAY. SAME ERROR MESSAGES, SAME PROBLEMS FOR THE SECOND TIME. MY CAR IS 2014 WITH ONLY 12000 MILES RIGHT NOW. UNBELIEVABLE!
NHTSA ODI #10762176
15,000 miles · Sep 3, 2015
Electrical SystemEngine
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE LOW OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED SEVERAL TIMES AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR FLOW SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE LOW OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED SEVERAL TIMES AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR FLOW SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000. MA 10/6 UPDATED 12/21/15. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10761325
24,625 miles · Sep 1, 2015
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT LATER EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTIES IN MANEUVERING THE STEERING WHEEL AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT A CERTAIN MOD…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT LATER EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTIES IN MANEUVERING THE STEERING WHEEL AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT A CERTAIN MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED, BUT THE REMEDY FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,625.
NHTSA ODI #10760719
27,700 miles · Aug 31, 2015
Fuel/propulsion SystemStructureSuspension
MY GRANDSON WENT OFF THE ROAD AT 70MPH INTO SOME PINE TREES AND COMPLETLE SEVERED THE PASSAGENS WHEEL OFF AND WINDSHIELD COMPLETLE DESTROYES ROOF DAMAGE AND BODY DAMAGE AND NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. I TALKE TO A CUSTOMER WHO ALSO HAD A 2014 EXPLORER THAT WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION AND THEIR AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY EITHER .THE DAMAGE…
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MY GRANDSON WENT OFF THE ROAD AT 70MPH INTO SOME PINE TREES AND COMPLETLE SEVERED THE PASSAGENS WHEEL OFF AND WINDSHIELD COMPLETLE DESTROYES ROOF DAMAGE AND BODY DAMAGE AND NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. I TALKE TO A CUSTOMER WHO ALSO HAD A 2014 EXPLORER THAT WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION AND THEIR AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY EITHER .THE DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE WAS ON THE FRONT AND THE SIDE YET NO AIRBAGE DEPLOYED. SOMETHING IS WRONG !!! ITS A MIRACLE MY GRANDSON IS ALIVE I HAVE PICTURES.
NHTSA ODI #10760473
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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