NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports12,000 miles · Apr 17, 2014
Steering
LUCKILY WE WERE COMING TO A STOP ANYWAY WHEN WE LOST POWER STEERING. LOUD WARNING BEEPS WITH A MESSAGE SAYING "POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULTY" APPEARED. WE WERE ABLE TO STOP AND START THE ENGINE TO RESET THIS, BUT THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. WE TOOK OUR NEW 2014 FORD TO OUR CULLMAN, ALABAMA ECKENROD FORD DEALER AND THEY ARE…
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LUCKILY WE WERE COMING TO A STOP ANYWAY WHEN WE LOST POWER STEERING. LOUD WARNING BEEPS WITH A MESSAGE SAYING "POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULTY" APPEARED. WE WERE ABLE TO STOP AND START THE ENGINE TO RESET THIS, BUT THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. WE TOOK OUR NEW 2014 FORD TO OUR CULLMAN, ALABAMA ECKENROD FORD DEALER AND THEY ARE STUMPED. COME TO FIND OUT (THANKS TO GOOGLE) THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN AROUND SINCE THE 2011 MODEL. WE NO LONGER FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE AS WE COMMUTE 45 MILES TO WORK AND 45 MILES HOME EVERYDAY.
NHTSA ODI #10583244
2,000 miles · Apr 15, 2014
Fuel/propulsion System
FOR A LITTLE OVER A MONTH MY WIFE AND I HAVE BEEN SMELLING GASOLINE PERIODICALLY AROUND THE CAR. THE LAST TIME I FILLED UP I REMEMBER CHECKING FOR A LEAK BECAUSE THE SMELL WAS SO STRONG. THAT SAME NIGHT I WAS WORKING AROUND THE VEHICLE AND HEARD A SOUND COMING FROM UNDER THE CAR. IT WAS A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF GASOLINE DRAINI…
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FOR A LITTLE OVER A MONTH MY WIFE AND I HAVE BEEN SMELLING GASOLINE PERIODICALLY AROUND THE CAR. THE LAST TIME I FILLED UP I REMEMBER CHECKING FOR A LEAK BECAUSE THE SMELL WAS SO STRONG. THAT SAME NIGHT I WAS WORKING AROUND THE VEHICLE AND HEARD A SOUND COMING FROM UNDER THE CAR. IT WAS A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF GASOLINE DRAINING ON TOP OF THE ENGINE EXHAUST PIPES AND MY DRIVEWAY. IT LOOKED LIKE THE GAS TANK WAS LEAKING FROM A PLASTIC FITTING, PERIODICALLY RELEASING ABOUT A CUP FULL OF GASOLINE. WE HAVE SINCE TAKEN THE CAR INTO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY HAVE IDENTIFIED THE ISSUE AS AN OVERFLOW COMPONENT THAT IS DEFECTIVE. I WANTED TO WRITE AN INCIDENT REPORT WITH NHTSA BECAUSE THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION THAT I WAS LUCKY TO CATCH. THE CAR IS MY PREGNANT WIFE'S DAILY DRIVER ALONG WITH MY DAUGHTER AS A PASSENGER, SO IT REALLY FREAKED ME OUT TO REALIZE WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED! I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS SITUATION MAY OCCUR WITH OTHER 2014 EXPLORERS AND THEIR OWNERS NOT REALIZING THE LEAK BEFORE A CATISTROPHIC EVENT HAPPENS. THE GAS LEAK COULD EASILY GO UNNOTICED, AS WE DID NOT REALIZE THE LEAK UNTIL A MONTH AFTER THE FIRST WARNING SIGNS (GASELINE SMELL). AFTER SOME RESEARCH I FOUND THAT THE 2013 EXPLORERS HAD A RECALL ON THE FUEL PUMPS, WHICH COULD BE RELATED TO THIS ISSUE. *TT
NHTSA ODI #10582884
3,400 miles · Apr 2, 2014
EnginePower Train
I AM PASTING FROM A PARTS OF A POST THAT I MADE ON 4/2/2014 @ 11:06AM AT WWW.BLUEOVALFORUMS.COM WITH THE TOPIC BEING: "MAJOR CONCERN/ISSUE WITH 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT": THIS FOR THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WITH V6 3.5L ECOBOOST (TWIN TURBO) MOTOR. ABOUT A MONTH AFTER OWNING IT, I WAS TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY....I WAS TRA…
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I AM PASTING FROM A PARTS OF A POST THAT I MADE ON 4/2/2014 @ 11:06AM AT WWW.BLUEOVALFORUMS.COM WITH THE TOPIC BEING: "MAJOR CONCERN/ISSUE WITH 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT": THIS FOR THE 2014 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WITH V6 3.5L ECOBOOST (TWIN TURBO) MOTOR. ABOUT A MONTH AFTER OWNING IT, I WAS TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY....I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 60MPH ....I SIGNALED TO GET OVER AND GAVE IT GAS TO SPEED UP MODERATELY TO ABOUT 75MPH OR SO. WHEN I PRESSED ON THE GAS THE CAR BASICALLY ALMOST STALLED ON ME...IT WASN'T A TRANSMISSION TRYING TO THINK WHICH GEAR TO SHIFT INTO ISSUE, IT WAS A STRAIGHT CHOKING OF THE GAS AND STUTTERING/HESITATING UNTIL I LET OFF THE GAS 2 TIMES OR SO AND THEN PRESS DOWN ON THE GAS AGAIN AND IT TAKES OFF, BUT IT A NOTICEABLE LOSE OF POWER.THIS HAS HAPPENED NOW 4 TIMES WITH THIS PAST WEEKEND 3/30/2014 BEING THE MOST RECENT. HOWEVER THE HIGHWAY SPEED WAS THE ONLY HIGH SPEED INCIDENT. THE OTHER 3 TIMES THAT IT OCCURRED WERE ALL IN TOWN, ON ONE OF THEM I WAS MAKING A SIMPLE U-TURN FROM A STOP AND WHEN I PRESSED THE GAS (NOT HEAVILY) TO GET UP AND OUT OF THE TURN IT STALLED. THE OTHER TIME WAS PASSING TO ANOTHER LANE AND GIVING IT SOME GAS TO SPEED UP. THIS PAST SUNDAY I WAS TRAVELING ON A 2 LANE ROAD THEN CHANGES TO A 1 LANE ROAD APPROX. 100 YARDS AFTER THE STOP LIGHTS. I WAS STOPPED BEHIND A VEHICLE AND WHEN WE STARTED MOVING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT WAS ONLY GOING ABOUT 20-25MPH IN A 45MPH ZONE. SO I SIGNALED AND SAW A VAN IN THE LANE ABOUT 100 YARDS BACK SO I PRESSED ON THE GAS TO GET SOME SPEED TO PASS HIM BEFORE THE LANE ENDED AND AGAIN NOTHING CRAZY JUST TO GET UP TO 45-50MPH OR SO AND THE DARN THING STALLED ON ME AGAIN! THE BIG CONCERN I HAVE NOW IS THAT THE FAMILY AND I ARE PLANNING ON A CROSS-COUNTRY ROAD TRIP THIS SUMMER FROM MAY 24-JUNE 10, 2014. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10576912
50,000 miles · Mar 19, 2014
StructureVisibility
PANEL BELOW REAR WINDOW CRACKED. NOT DUE TO ACCIDENT OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF ABUSE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10573596
5,677 miles · Mar 18, 2014
SteeringSuspensionWheelsCrash
TO AVOID HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT ILLEGALLY CAME INTO THE LANE I WAS ENTERING (THEY WERE DRIVING ON THE SHOULDER), I HAD TO TAKE EVASIVE ACTION, WHICH CAUSED ME TO TURN MY VEHICLE INTO A CURB. AT THE TIME, I WAS TRAVELING 15 TO MAYBE 20 MPH. AFTER HITTING THE CURB, MY VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP AND UPON INSPECTION I DISCOVERED…
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TO AVOID HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT ILLEGALLY CAME INTO THE LANE I WAS ENTERING (THEY WERE DRIVING ON THE SHOULDER), I HAD TO TAKE EVASIVE ACTION, WHICH CAUSED ME TO TURN MY VEHICLE INTO A CURB. AT THE TIME, I WAS TRAVELING 15 TO MAYBE 20 MPH. AFTER HITTING THE CURB, MY VEHICLE CAME TO A STOP AND UPON INSPECTION I DISCOVERED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM HAD COMPLETELY BROKEN IN HALF. MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALERSHIP, WHERE THEY SUBSEQUENTLY SERVICED THE VEHICLE, WHICH I PICKED UP ON MARCH 15, 2014. HOWEVER, WITHIN 100 MILES OF DRIVING, MULTIPLE SYSTEM ERRORS OCCURRED, AND MY STEERING WENT OUT. THE DEALERSHIP IS NOW SAYING THERE WAS APPARENTLY AN ISSUE WITH THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY, AND THAT THEY WILL BE ABLE TO FURTHER DIAGNOSE UPON REPLACING THAT PART. MY CONCERN IS THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE AND SPECIFICALLY THAT I DO NOT THINK A CONTROL ARM SHOULD SNAP IN HALF AT THAT SPEED, PARTICULARLY IN A SUV THAT HAS AN UPGRADED SUSPENSION AS PART OF THE TRIM PACKAGE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10573219
10,000 miles · Feb 22, 2014
Engine And Engine Cooling
THE EXPLORER SPORT (V6 TWIN TURBO ECOBOOST) STARTED LEAKING SULFUROUS SMELLING VEHICLE EXHAUST FUMES (POSSIBLY CYANOTIC ) INTO THE CAR WHICH MADE THE OCCUPANTS FEEL UNWELL . FORD HAVE A FIX THAT THEY DO NOT ADVISE CUSTOMERS ABOUT SO THE FUME ISSUE IS KNOWN TO THEM ( TSB 12-12-4 ). THIS FIX HAS BEEN PERFORMED YET THE ODOR PERSIST…
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THE EXPLORER SPORT (V6 TWIN TURBO ECOBOOST) STARTED LEAKING SULFUROUS SMELLING VEHICLE EXHAUST FUMES (POSSIBLY CYANOTIC ) INTO THE CAR WHICH MADE THE OCCUPANTS FEEL UNWELL . FORD HAVE A FIX THAT THEY DO NOT ADVISE CUSTOMERS ABOUT SO THE FUME ISSUE IS KNOWN TO THEM ( TSB 12-12-4 ). THIS FIX HAS BEEN PERFORMED YET THE ODOR PERSISTS IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES. WE HAVE LITTLE CONFIDENCE THAT THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN PROPERLY RESOLVED AND WE HAVE LITTLE CONFIDENCE IN DRIVING A CAR WITH THIS TYPE OF FAULT. IT IS DISTURBING THAT OXIDES OF SULFUR AND HYDROGEN SULFIDE CAN ONLY BE SMELLED WITHIN CERTAIN CONCENTRATION LIMITS AND THAT THE "NOSE" BECOMES INSENSITIVE TO THEM AT HIGHER CONCENTRATIONS. OTHER PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING THE SAME PROBLEM AND I THINK IT S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE A DRIVER BECOMES INCAPACITATED AND HAS A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. IF THIS HAS NOT ALREADY HAPPENED. MANY OTHER REPORTS OF THIS PROBLEM ON VARIOUS WEBSITES. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10565379
2,500 miles · Feb 14, 2014
Electrical System
THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER LCD DISPLAY SCREENS TO THE LEFT AND RIGHT OF THE SPEEDOMETER MALFUNCTION. THEY WILL RANDOMLY TURN OFF FOR APPROXIMATELY 5-60 SECONDS WHILE DRIVING. THE FLASHING SCREENS CAN BE A GREAT DISTRACTION WHILE DRIVING DURING THE DAY AND ESPECIALLY AT NIGHT. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10564361
10 miles · Feb 5, 2014
StructureInjury
TL* THE CONTACT RENTED A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO OPEN THE REAR CUP HOLDER BUT FOUR OF HIS FINGERS BECAME STUCK INSIDE OF THE PLASTIC HOLDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HAD TO PRY THE HOLDER OPEN IN ORDER TO RELEASE HIS FINGERS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE VEHICL…
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TL* THE CONTACT RENTED A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO OPEN THE REAR CUP HOLDER BUT FOUR OF HIS FINGERS BECAME STUCK INSIDE OF THE PLASTIC HOLDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HAD TO PRY THE HOLDER OPEN IN ORDER TO RELEASE HIS FINGERS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA ODI #10563009
1,000 miles · Jan 21, 2014
Exterior Lighting
HEAD LIGHTS ARE NOT FOCUSING CORRECTLY. WHEN U GO AROUND CURVE, LIGHTS SHOW AHEAD HALF WAY, BUT IT IS PURE BLACK AROUND CURVE. WE LIVE IN THE MTS. WITH LOTS OF HILLS AND MTS. IT IS SCARY!! YOU COULD KILL A CHILD OR ANIMAL WITHOUT SEEING THEM IN THE PITCH BLACK. ALSO, U CANNOT SEE SIGNS ON THE SIDE OF ROAD UNLESS U PUT YOUR BRIG…
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HEAD LIGHTS ARE NOT FOCUSING CORRECTLY. WHEN U GO AROUND CURVE, LIGHTS SHOW AHEAD HALF WAY, BUT IT IS PURE BLACK AROUND CURVE. WE LIVE IN THE MTS. WITH LOTS OF HILLS AND MTS. IT IS SCARY!! YOU COULD KILL A CHILD OR ANIMAL WITHOUT SEEING THEM IN THE PITCH BLACK. ALSO, U CANNOT SEE SIGNS ON THE SIDE OF ROAD UNLESS U PUT YOUR BRIGHT LIGHTS ON, WHICH REALLY TEES OFF CAR IN FRONT. WE JUST BOUGHT THE FORD EXPLORER IN DEC.. HAVE TAKEN IT TO TWO DEALERS,. THE ONE WE BOUGHT IT FROM DID RAISE THE LIGHTS, BUT SAID NOTHING ELSE CAN BE DONE. I BELIEVE BEFORE FORD WILL HAVE A RECALL, SOMEONE WILL BE KILLED! PRAYING IT WON'T BE US. PLEASE HELP US FIND SOMEONE THAT CAN HELP. ENGINEERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THIS SCARY PROBLEM! THANKS! [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
NHTSA ODI #10560873
100 miles · Nov 21, 2013
Visibility/wiper
I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ABOUT A MONTH AGO. DRIVING HOME, 2 1/2 HOURS AWAY FROM WHERE I PURCHASED IT, THE SUN WAS HITTING MY FRONT WINDSHIELD. I NOTICED TREMENDOUS AMOUNTS OF TINY SHINY PARTICLES ALL OVER THE WINDSHIELD. IT WAS VERY DISTRACTING AND HAZARDOUS!!! I CHECKED THE FOLLOWING DAY AND THE ENTIRE WINDOWS HAVE THE SAM…
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I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ABOUT A MONTH AGO. DRIVING HOME, 2 1/2 HOURS AWAY FROM WHERE I PURCHASED IT, THE SUN WAS HITTING MY FRONT WINDSHIELD. I NOTICED TREMENDOUS AMOUNTS OF TINY SHINY PARTICLES ALL OVER THE WINDSHIELD. IT WAS VERY DISTRACTING AND HAZARDOUS!!! I CHECKED THE FOLLOWING DAY AND THE ENTIRE WINDOWS HAVE THE SAME THING. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT IT'S NORMAL. I HAVE HAD 3 OTHER FORD VEHICLES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS AND NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM. IT IS VERY VERY HAZARDOUS TO ME AND I THINK THAT THEY SHOULD NOT BE MAKING WINDOWS LIKE THIS AND THEY SHOULD RECALL AND REPLACE THESE. I AM PAYING ALOT OF MONEY FOR THIS VEHICLE AND DESERVE TO BE HAPPY AND BE ABLE FEEL COMPLETELY SAFE DRIVING IT. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10553234
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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