IllustrationEXHAUST FUMES ENTER THE CABIN AREA REGULARLY WHEN THE SIR CONDITIONER IS IN RE-CIRCULATION MODE. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD FOR OUR BABY WHO WAS BORN PREMATURELY BUT HAS HAD TO BREATHE IN EXHAUST FUMES WHEN RIDING WITH US IN OUR BRAND NEW FORD EXPLORER. *TR
2014 Ford Explorer
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Explorer years
Owner complaints for the 2014 Ford Explorer are substantially higher than the model-year median of 609.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Explorer years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
1890–25K
18125–50K
19650–75K
16275–100K
222100–150K
71150K+
1,021 reports with mileage · 654 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Steering. Review the 496 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Structure. Review the 276 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 196 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
32 crash reports6 fire reports29 injury reports
What owners actually said
1,675 reportsWHEN ACCELERATING THE CABIN OF MY FORD EXPLORER FILLS UP WITH EXHAUST. *TR
EVERY TIME THE SUV IS ACCELERATING OVER 3.4K RPMS FOR A DURATION OF GREATER THAN 3-5 SECONDS, THE AC SYSTEM FILLS THE CABIN WITH NAUSEATING GAS. THE SMELL HAS CHANGED OVER THE COURSE OF OWNERSHIP FROM BURNT HAIR SMELL, NOW TO A EXHAUST, ROTTEN EGG/CARBON SMELL. OCCURS WITH AC SYSTEM OFF, OR ON INDEPENDENT OF FRESH AIR OR RECIRCU…
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EVERY TIME THE SUV IS ACCELERATING OVER 3.4K RPMS FOR A DURATION OF GREATER THAN 3-5 SECONDS, THE AC SYSTEM FILLS THE CABIN WITH NAUSEATING GAS. THE SMELL HAS CHANGED OVER THE COURSE OF OWNERSHIP FROM BURNT HAIR SMELL, NOW TO A EXHAUST, ROTTEN EGG/CARBON SMELL. OCCURS WITH AC SYSTEM OFF, OR ON INDEPENDENT OF FRESH AIR OR RECIRCULATE MODE. SMELL LINGERS FOR MINUTES AFTERWARDS. TAKEN TO DEALER BUT UNABLE TO REPLICATE PROBLEM. ALSO, THEY SAID THAT THE TSB FOR THE ISSUE DID NOT APPLY TO 2014 MODELS. I AM VERY CONCERNED THAT EXHAUST (CO) IS ENTERING THE VEHICLE AT HAZARDOUS LEVELS. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE JERKED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE REPAIRS MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE JERKED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE REPAIRS MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,600.
VEHICLE STOPPED TO LET PASSENGERS OFF. STOPPED ENGINE. RESTARTED THE ENGINE, STARTED TO PULL AWAY FROM CURVE AND POWER STEERING FAILED AND RECEIVED STEERING ASSIST FAULT ALARM. VEHICLE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY DRIVEN WITH NO POWER STEERING. ALSO, NOTED THE FOLLOWING: TERRAIN MANAGEMENT FAULT, SERVICE ADVANCED TRACK. ANOTHER RELATED FAIL…
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VEHICLE STOPPED TO LET PASSENGERS OFF. STOPPED ENGINE. RESTARTED THE ENGINE, STARTED TO PULL AWAY FROM CURVE AND POWER STEERING FAILED AND RECEIVED STEERING ASSIST FAULT ALARM. VEHICLE WAS SUBSEQUENTLY DRIVEN WITH NO POWER STEERING. ALSO, NOTED THE FOLLOWING: TERRAIN MANAGEMENT FAULT, SERVICE ADVANCED TRACK. ANOTHER RELATED FAILURE IS THAT THE SIGNAL LIGHTS NO LONGER WOULD STAY ON WHEN INITIATED CREATING AN ADDITIONAL SAFETY ISSUE. TOOK VEHICLE TO FORD SHOP AND THEY STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING GEAR WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THEY REPORTED THAT THEY HAD ONE ON ORDER AND WOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR INSTALLATION IN 3-WEEKS. UPON SEARCHING THE WEB, FOUND THAT FORD HAS HAD THIS, OR SIMILAR PROBLEMS WITH 2011-2013 POWER STEERING AND HAS JUST ISSUED A RECALL FOR 2011-2013 VEHICLES. HAD THIS FAILURE HAPPENED DURING A U-TURN OR A FRONT TIRE FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEED, IT WOULD LIKELY HAVE ENDED UP WITH A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. IN ADDITION, THIS IS A VEHICLE DESIGNED TO GO OFF-ROAD. IF A FAILURE OF THIS TYPE OCCURRED OFF ROAD, SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE OR OCCUPANT INJURY COULD OCCUR. THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE THAT, ON THE SURFACE, APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN GOING ON FOR SEVERAL YEARS. *TR
WAS SITTING IN MY NEW FORD EXPLORER 2014 SPORT, WHEN HEARD A LOUD POP LIKE A GUN.. GOT OUT AND WALKED AROUND CAR TO SEE IF SOMETHING HIT ME.. NOTHING! STARTED TO DRIVE AWAY AT AROUND 20MPH.. STARTED TO HEAR ROAD NOISE COMING FROM SUNROOF.STARTED TO RETRACT SHADE WHEN NOTICED GLASS FRAGMENTS FALLING, CLOSED SHADE PULLED OVER AND …
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WAS SITTING IN MY NEW FORD EXPLORER 2014 SPORT, WHEN HEARD A LOUD POP LIKE A GUN.. GOT OUT AND WALKED AROUND CAR TO SEE IF SOMETHING HIT ME.. NOTHING! STARTED TO DRIVE AWAY AT AROUND 20MPH.. STARTED TO HEAR ROAD NOISE COMING FROM SUNROOF.STARTED TO RETRACT SHADE WHEN NOTICED GLASS FRAGMENTS FALLING, CLOSED SHADE PULLED OVER AND TOOK PICTURES.. CONTACTED FORD.. AND HAVE BEEN TOLD SOMETHING MUST HAVE HIT THE SUNROOF? LIKE WHAT I SAID A METEOR!!! THEY LAUGHED AND SAID I SHOULD CONTACT MY INSURANCE CO. BUT THATS FRAUD I SAID?AGAIN THEY LAUGHED.. COME ON FORD STAND BEHIND YOUR CRAFTSMANSHIP OR GET ANOTHER OWNER WHO WILL? VERY DISAPPOINTED? SO WHAT TO DO NOW? *TR
EXHAUST GAS IS GETTING INTO THE CABIN WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATES OVER 3200 TO 3500 RPM. FORD SAYS THAT THE GAS IS NOT EXHAUST GAS, BUT A STRONG ORDER THAT IS NOT HARMFUL. THEY WILL NOT TELL US WHAT CHEMICAL THE ORDER IS. WHEN I DROVE THE CAR I WAS EXPERIENCING ASTHMA AND HEART PALPITATIONS. THE DEALERSHIP FOUND THAT IT HAD THE…
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EXHAUST GAS IS GETTING INTO THE CABIN WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATES OVER 3200 TO 3500 RPM. FORD SAYS THAT THE GAS IS NOT EXHAUST GAS, BUT A STRONG ORDER THAT IS NOT HARMFUL. THEY WILL NOT TELL US WHAT CHEMICAL THE ORDER IS. WHEN I DROVE THE CAR I WAS EXPERIENCING ASTHMA AND HEART PALPITATIONS. THE DEALERSHIP FOUND THAT IT HAD THE 2013 EXPLORER PARTS IN IT AND CHANGED THEM OUT PER THE TSB 12-12-4. IT STILL DID NOT HELP. ANOTHER POST SAID THAT THEY DID USE A MONITOR IN THEIR CAR AND IT WAS EXHAUST. WHEN WE PASS A CAR OR FARM MACHINERY OR ENTER ONTO A FREEWAY, THE EXHAUST SMELL IS SUFFOCATING WHEN IT ENTERS THE CAR CABIN. MY FEAR IS THAT THE EXHAUST COULD BE COMING INTO THE CABIN ALL THE TIME, BUT WE CAN'T SMELL IT UNTIL IT GETS TO A CONCENTRATED LEVEL. FORD SAID THAT THE ENGINEERS ARE WORKING ON IT. SO I HAVE PURCHASED A $45,000 VEHICLE THAT I CAN'T DRIVE. *TR
WE RENTED A 2014 FORD EXPLORER FROM AVIS OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND. MY 10 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE SECOND ROW REAR-FACING IN HER DIONO RADIAN RXT CAR SEAT (SITTING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE SUV). WHEN I PRESSED THE LEVER TO LET THE LEFT SIDE SEATS DOWN TO PUT MY TWO YEAR OLD INTO HIS CAR SEAT ON THE THIRD ROW, THE SPRING-LOA…
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WE RENTED A 2014 FORD EXPLORER FROM AVIS OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND. MY 10 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE SECOND ROW REAR-FACING IN HER DIONO RADIAN RXT CAR SEAT (SITTING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE SUV). WHEN I PRESSED THE LEVER TO LET THE LEFT SIDE SEATS DOWN TO PUT MY TWO YEAR OLD INTO HIS CAR SEAT ON THE THIRD ROW, THE SPRING-LOADED SEATS LANDED ON HER LEG, TWISTING AND CRUSHING IT. NOW SHE HAS A BROKEN TIBIA! THERE IS A SERIOUS FLAW IN THE DESIGN OF THESE SEATS. THEY ARE VERY HEAVY AND ARE SPRING LOADED SO THAT THEY FALL VERY HARD WHEN YOU PRESS THE LEVER. I DO NOT BELIEVE THEY ACCOUNTED FOR CHILDREN SITTING IN REAR FACING CAR SEATS WHEN THEY DESIGNED THIS VEHICLE, IT IS LIKE A BOOBY TRAP WAITING TO HAPPEN AND IT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. *TR
SUNROOF EXPLODED AND RAINED GLASS ON DRIVER. NO IMPACT INVOLVED WITH GLASS BEFORE IT SHATTERED. *TR
IT WAS RAINING QUITE HEAVILY ALL DAY AND WAS RAINING WHEN THE MISFIRE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WOULD BUCK AND JERK WHEN I TRIED TO ACCELERATE. I HAD TO PULL OVER AND RESTART THE CAR AND THEN FINALLY THE BLINKING ENGINE WENT AWAY. THE ENGINE ON THIS CAR IS A TWIN TURBO 3.5L ECOBOOST. *JS
Official recalls
624V031000 · Structure:body:roof And Pillars
Jan 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.
21V537000 · Suspension:rear
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.
20V675000 · Suspension:rear
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.
20V692000 · Power Train:axle Assembly:axle Shaft
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.
19V435000 · Suspension:rear
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.
16V245000 · Suspension:rear
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.