NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports40,000 miles · Jul 9, 2015
Electrical SystemVisibility/wiper
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE FRONT PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE WINDOWS, BOTH WINDOWS BEGAN TO VIBRATE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SHAKE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED EACH TIME THE WINDOWS WERE OPENED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS U…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE FRONT PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE WINDOWS, BOTH WINDOWS BEGAN TO VIBRATE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SHAKE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED EACH TIME THE WINDOWS WERE OPENED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000.
NHTSA ODI #10732898
6,635 miles · May 29, 2015
SteeringUnknown Or Other
I HAVE A 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND WHENEVER THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES IT SEVERELY PULLS TO THE LEFT. THE VEHICLE WITH TRACK STRAIGHT UNTIL YOU STEP ON THE GAS AND IT PULLS SEVERELY TO THE LEFT REQUIRING ME TO COMPENSATE BY WHILE DRIVING. I ADVISED THE DEALERSHIP ON 10-8-14, 10-18-14, 12-4-14, ON A MARCH OIL CHANGE WITH FORD, 1-…
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I HAVE A 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND WHENEVER THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES IT SEVERELY PULLS TO THE LEFT. THE VEHICLE WITH TRACK STRAIGHT UNTIL YOU STEP ON THE GAS AND IT PULLS SEVERELY TO THE LEFT REQUIRING ME TO COMPENSATE BY WHILE DRIVING. I ADVISED THE DEALERSHIP ON 10-8-14, 10-18-14, 12-4-14, ON A MARCH OIL CHANGE WITH FORD, 1-7-15 AND 5-18-15.THE DEALERSHIPS INITIALLY DENIED THE CAR HAD ANY ISSUES THAT WERE ABNORMAL BUT EVENTUALLY THEY ADMITTED IT DOES PULL TO THE LEFT BUT IT WAS NORMAL ACCORDING TO THE FORD ENGINEERS AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE TO CORRECT IT SINCE IT WAS A NATURAL CHARACTERISTIC OF THE VEHICLE. I DID NOT AGREE SINCE I HAVE DRIVEN OTHER VEHICLES OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL THAT DID NOT PERFORM THE SAME AS MY VEHICLE DOES. I ALSO SPOKE TO VARIOUS FORD SERVICE TECHNICIANS THAT INDICATED THEY HAD NEVER ENCOUNTERED THIS ISSUE AND THEY ASSUMED THAT IT COULDN'T BE TORQUE STEER SINCE THE INTELLIGENT 4 WHEEL DRIVE SHOULD CORRECT ANY WHEELS THAT WERE NOT SPINNING AT THE SAME SPEED AS THE OTHERS CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO PULL IN ONE DIRECTION OR THE OTHER. HOWEVER, THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THEY COULD ONLY GO BY WHAT THE CORPORATE ENGINEERS ADVISED THEM AND THAT WAS THAT THE ISSUE WAS NORMAL DESPITE THE VEHICLE BEING RATED FOR A MAXIMUM TOWING CAPACITY OF 5,000 POUNDS. I ALSO HAVEN'T BEEN GIVEN AN EXPLANATION ON WHY THE LEFT TIRES ON MY VEHICLE ARE WORN OUT ONLY ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE TIRE EXACTLY IN THE DIRECTION THE CAR IS PULLING TO. THE SEVER PULLING TO THE LEFT IS NOT A MINOR THINK AND THE CAR WILL MOVE BY THE FEET TO THE LEFT VEERING OUT OF THE LANE UNLESS I COMPENSATE WHILE STEERING, YET IT DRIVES ABSOLUTELY STRAIGHT IF I LET OFF THE GAS AND I CAN'T IMAGINE TOWING ANYTHING BEHIND THIS VEHICLE WITH THESE ABNORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS.
NHTSA ODI #10722116
8,000 miles · May 21, 2015
Unknown Or Other
RECENTLY, MY WIFE AND I NOTICED AN EXHAUST SMELL IN THE CABIN OF OUR 2014 FORD EXPLORER (8K MILES) WHEN WE ACCELERATED ONTO HIGHWAYS. WE BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO FORD AND THEY TOLD US THERE WAS A BULLETIN OUT ON THE EXHAUST ISSUE. THE EXPLORER LOANER THEY GAVE US HAD THE PROBLEM WORSE THAN OURS SO I ASKED FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT…
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RECENTLY, MY WIFE AND I NOTICED AN EXHAUST SMELL IN THE CABIN OF OUR 2014 FORD EXPLORER (8K MILES) WHEN WE ACCELERATED ONTO HIGHWAYS. WE BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO FORD AND THEY TOLD US THERE WAS A BULLETIN OUT ON THE EXHAUST ISSUE. THE EXPLORER LOANER THEY GAVE US HAD THE PROBLEM WORSE THAN OURS SO I ASKED FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO DRIVE. WHEN WE GOT THE EXPLORER BACK, I STILL NOTICED THE PROBLEM AND BROUGHT IT BACK TO FORD. THEY INSISTED THAT THERE WAS NO PROBLEM SO I WENT TO MY LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT AND BORROWED A CARBON MONOXIDE METER AND DROVE THE CAR ON THE HIGHWAY FOR ONE MILE AFTER TESTING VARIOUS LOCATIONS INSIDE THE CABIN (FOR ABOUT 10 MINUTES WHILE IDLING). OVER ONE MILE THE CARBON MONOXIDE LEVEL IN THE CABIN INCREASED FROM 0 TO 6 PARTS PER MILLION (PPM). AFTER DISCOVERING THE DANGEROUS SITUATION I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO FORD WHO HAS NOW HAD THE VEHICLE FOR RIGHT AT 3 WEEKS AND WILL NOT RETURN MY PHONE CALLS OR UPDATE ME ON THE ISSUE. I AM POSTING THIS SO THAT ANYONE WHO READS THIS CAN INVESTIGATE THIS POSSIBLE SERIOUS HEALTH ISSUE FOR THEMSELVES. IF YOU ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE AND SMELL EXHAUST, TAKE THE VEHICLE INTO THE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE PROBLEM FIXED. IF YOU SMELL EXHAUST IT IS STILL GETTING INTO THE CABIN AND IS VERY DANGEROUS TO YOUR HEALTH. I AM VERY CONCERNED FORD HAS NOT RECALLED ANY VEHICLES (2011-2014) TO MAKE SURE PEOPLE ARE NOT DRIVING AROUND WITH DANGEROUS EXHAUST FUMES IN THE VEHICLE. I HAVE TALKED TO OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS AROUND TOWN AND AT GAS STATIONS AND THEY HAVE NOTICED THIS AS WELL. I USED A CALIBRATED CO METER AND HAVE PICTURES OF THE READINGS.
NHTSA ODI #10717754
10,000 miles · May 17, 2015
StructureSuspension
VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 30-35 MPH DOWN A ROAD WITH NO POT HOLES WHEN THE FRONT RIGHT LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE IN HALF. VEHICLE LOST CONTROL AND PULLED TO THE RIGHT BRINGING THE VEHICLE INTO THE STREET CURB. DAMAGE TO THE FENDER, TIRE, WHEEL, CV JOINT, AND OTHER ASSOCIATED PARTS REPORTED. FORD DENIES WARRANTY CLAIM.…
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VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 30-35 MPH DOWN A ROAD WITH NO POT HOLES WHEN THE FRONT RIGHT LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE IN HALF. VEHICLE LOST CONTROL AND PULLED TO THE RIGHT BRINGING THE VEHICLE INTO THE STREET CURB. DAMAGE TO THE FENDER, TIRE, WHEEL, CV JOINT, AND OTHER ASSOCIATED PARTS REPORTED. FORD DENIES WARRANTY CLAIM....05-27-15 *BF UPDATED 10/17/2017*CN
NHTSA ODI #10716939
Mileage unknown · May 1, 2015
Exterior Lighting
CPSC:I1540378A. 2014 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER STATED THE HEAD LIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE ARE UNSAFE TO OPERATE AT NIGHT. *LN
NHTSA ODI #10714824
1,200 miles · Apr 26, 2015
Engine And Engine Cooling
THE EXHAUST SEEMS TO BE ENTERING THE CABIN THROUGH THE AC VENTS. WE TOOK THIS BACK TO FORD AS WE BOUGHT IT NEW AND THEY STATED AT FIRST IT WAS JUST STICKERS BURNING OFF. THEN I TOOK IT BACK AGAIN AND MADE A MANAGER TO RIDE WITH ME. HE STATED IT WAS NOT NORMAL AND WE LEFT IT THERE. THEY STATED THEY REPLACED SOME PARTS A REROUT…
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THE EXHAUST SEEMS TO BE ENTERING THE CABIN THROUGH THE AC VENTS. WE TOOK THIS BACK TO FORD AS WE BOUGHT IT NEW AND THEY STATED AT FIRST IT WAS JUST STICKERS BURNING OFF. THEN I TOOK IT BACK AGAIN AND MADE A MANAGER TO RIDE WITH ME. HE STATED IT WAS NOT NORMAL AND WE LEFT IT THERE. THEY STATED THEY REPLACED SOME PARTS A REROUTED SOMETHING. SEEMED TO BE VERY CONFUSED ON WHAT THEY DID. THE SMELL NEVER REALLY WENT AWAY AND NOT THAT IT HAS 20,000 MILES SEEMS TO BE GETTING WORST. MY WIFE IS PREGNANT NOW AND ITS HER DAILY DRIVER. I WOULD JUST TAKE IT BACK AND TRADE IT IN BUT I WILL LOSE SO MUCH IN TRADE!! I JUST THINK THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND I AM WORRIED FOR MY WIFE AND FUTURE BABY. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10712975
3,000 miles · Apr 20, 2015
Exterior Lighting
THIS VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. WITH LOW BEAMS ON THE DISTANCE THE ROAD IS ILLUMINATED VARIES DRASTICALLY, AT TIMES THE ILLUMINATION IS ONLY A FEW FEET WITH NOT SIDE ILLUMINATION AT ALL. EVEN IN THE BEST OF CONDITIONS THE ILLUMINATION IS INSUFFICIENT TO MAKE DRIVING AT NIGHT SAFE. ALSO THERE IS A DISTRACTING DARK…
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THIS VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. WITH LOW BEAMS ON THE DISTANCE THE ROAD IS ILLUMINATED VARIES DRASTICALLY, AT TIMES THE ILLUMINATION IS ONLY A FEW FEET WITH NOT SIDE ILLUMINATION AT ALL. EVEN IN THE BEST OF CONDITIONS THE ILLUMINATION IS INSUFFICIENT TO MAKE DRIVING AT NIGHT SAFE. ALSO THERE IS A DISTRACTING DARK CURTAIN MOVING UP AND DOWN THE WINDSHIELD AS YOU GO UP AND DOWN HILLS. TRAVELING HILLY ROADS IS WHERE THE CONDITION IS AT ITS WORST. THIS PHENOMENA HAS BEEN VERIFIED BY THE FORD DEALERSHIP I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM, BUT THERE SEEMS TO BE NO SOLUTION THE THE ISSUE. THIS VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED, I DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE AT NIGHT, TOO DANGEROUS. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10706596
10,993 miles · Mar 4, 2015
Structure
WHEN MY HUSBAND CLOSED THE HOOD IT DENTED. ONE SHOULD HAVE A REASONABLE EXPECTATION THAT WHEN YOU CLOSE THE HOOD THAT THE METAL WILL NOT BEND. I BELIEVE THAT THE ALUMINUM THAT THEY ARE USING IS OF TOO THIN/ INFERIOR GRADE. I WOULD HATE TO SEE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THERE WAS AN ACCIDENT IF THE HOOD COULD BEND SO EASILY FROM JUS…
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WHEN MY HUSBAND CLOSED THE HOOD IT DENTED. ONE SHOULD HAVE A REASONABLE EXPECTATION THAT WHEN YOU CLOSE THE HOOD THAT THE METAL WILL NOT BEND. I BELIEVE THAT THE ALUMINUM THAT THEY ARE USING IS OF TOO THIN/ INFERIOR GRADE. I WOULD HATE TO SEE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THERE WAS AN ACCIDENT IF THE HOOD COULD BEND SO EASILY FROM JUST CLOSING THE HOOD. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10691983
20 miles · Feb 1, 2015
Engine
A SULFUR SMELLING STENCH COMING THROUGH THE VENTILATION SYSTEM WHEN DRIVING OVER A HIGH RPM RATE. THE SMELL ENTERS THE CABIN EVEN WITH THE AC TURNED ON AND ALSO WHEN RECIRCULATION IS TURNED ON. I HAVE REPORTED TO THE DEALER AND THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10680410
Mileage unknown · Jan 21, 2015
Exterior Lighting
HEADLIGHTS DON'T ILLUMINATE FAR ENOUGH IN FRONT OF VEHICLE AND AIM DOWN INTO THE ROAD. WHEN MAKING A TURN THE HEADLIGHTS DO NOT REFLECT TO THE EDGES OF THE ROAD LIMITING YOUR VISION. WE HAVE TO STOP WHEN MAKING A TURN TO POINT THE HEADLIGHTS IN THE DIRECTION WE WANT TO GO BECAUSE THERE IS NO SIDE VISION. THESE HEADLIGHTS ARE …
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HEADLIGHTS DON'T ILLUMINATE FAR ENOUGH IN FRONT OF VEHICLE AND AIM DOWN INTO THE ROAD. WHEN MAKING A TURN THE HEADLIGHTS DO NOT REFLECT TO THE EDGES OF THE ROAD LIMITING YOUR VISION. WE HAVE TO STOP WHEN MAKING A TURN TO POINT THE HEADLIGHTS IN THE DIRECTION WE WANT TO GO BECAUSE THERE IS NO SIDE VISION. THESE HEADLIGHTS ARE NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WITH AT NIGHT. IT'S LIKE DRIVING WITH TWO FLASHLIGHTS FOR HEADLIGHTS! THIS HAS LIMITED OUR DRIVING AT NIGHT. WE HAVE BEEN TO THE DEALERSHIP TO TRY TO RESOLVE THIS AND SINCE FOUND OUT THAT THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS! WILL YOU PLEASE CONTACT ME AND LET ME KNOW HOW FORD PLANS TO RESOLVE THIS SAFETY HAZARD. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10677045
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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