NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
1,675 reports70,000 miles · Apr 7, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE POWER STEERING MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING THE DRIVER TO ALMOST LOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL, AND DRIVE OFF THE ROAD. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AUTOHAUS UWE NEU LOCATED AT VOGELBACHER WEG 44 HOMBUR…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE POWER STEERING MALFUNCTIONED CAUSING THE DRIVER TO ALMOST LOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL, AND DRIVE OFF THE ROAD. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AUTOHAUS UWE NEU LOCATED AT VOGELBACHER WEG 44 HOMBURG GERMANY 66424 AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
NHTSA ODI #11406890
Mileage unknown · Apr 1, 2021
Air BagsElectrical SystemSeat Belts
AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON DUE TO FAULTY WIRING , COSTS 600 TO REPAIR . THIS IS SECOND FORD CAR WITH THIS SAME ISSUE. I WAS TOLD PROBLEM WAS IN BACK SEATS. NO ONE EVER USES BACK SEATS.
NHTSA ODI #11405929
102,000 miles · Apr 1, 2021
Steering
DRIVING ON EXPRESSWAY GOING AT LEAST 60MPH WHEN STEERING WILL LOCKED AND COULD NOT STEER LEFT OR RIGHT. I BELIEVE EVERY LIGHT FLASHED ON THAT THE VEHICLE HAS.JUST HAD TOE LINK RECALL REPLACED EXACTLY ONE WEEK AGO.
NHTSA ODI #11405927
75,000 miles · Mar 31, 2021
Power Train
MY PTO WENT OUT AT 75000 MILES. I OWN FORD STOCK SO I KNOW THEY WILL TAKE A HIT.THEY NEED TO FIX INFERIOR ENGINEERING. I HAD AN AFTERMARKET WARRANTY BUT AFTER INVESTIGATING THINGS CAN BE DONE TO FIX BLATANT STUPIDITY. IF I WAS TO TRAVERSE A HILL ON SNOW I COULD EASILY START SLIDING BACKWARDS WITHOUT AWD. PLEASE MAKE FORD FIX TH…
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MY PTO WENT OUT AT 75000 MILES. I OWN FORD STOCK SO I KNOW THEY WILL TAKE A HIT.THEY NEED TO FIX INFERIOR ENGINEERING. I HAD AN AFTERMARKET WARRANTY BUT AFTER INVESTIGATING THINGS CAN BE DONE TO FIX BLATANT STUPIDITY. IF I WAS TO TRAVERSE A HILL ON SNOW I COULD EASILY START SLIDING BACKWARDS WITHOUT AWD. PLEASE MAKE FORD FIX THIS OR ARE YOU GOING TO CREATE MORE CARS LIKE LATE 70 OR EARLY 80S WERE THEY WERE JUNK. HERE'S AN IDEA WHEN A CAR HAS A KNOWN DEFECT LIKE THIS FORCE DEALERSHIPS TO LIST IT. I LIKE FORD IT IS ONLY AMERICAN CAR COMPANY THAT HAS SOME QUALITY. PLEASE PROTECT THE AMERICAN PUBLIC NOT TO SAY THE MUNICIPALITIES PAYING FOR ALL THE INTERCEPTORS THAT ARE BREAKING. ALL WERE SAYING IS GIVE US A FAIR DEAL AND I WILL ALWAYS BUY AMERICAN. THIS ISN'T A BELT OR WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR. 1500 BILL AT 75000 MILES. IF YOU GOING TO LET THEM SELL CRAP JUST LET THE AMERICAN PUBLIC KNOW SO WE CAN PROTECT OURSELVES.
NHTSA ODI #11405894
108,000 miles · Mar 30, 2021
Steering
STEERING BECAME VERY STIFF AND HARD TOO STEER. THEN IT BECAME VERY LOOSE AND NOT RESPONSIVE. NOW IT ALTERNATES BETWEEN STIFF AND LOOSE. IT IS VERY DANGEROUS.
NHTSA ODI #11405638
148,000 miles · Mar 30, 2021
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL GROWLING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE TURNING TO THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING AND THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY STARTED TO TURN TO THE RIGHT, HEADING TOWARD THE SIDE OF THE …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL GROWLING SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE TURNING TO THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING AND THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY STARTED TO TURN TO THE RIGHT, HEADING TOWARD THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND INTO A DITCH. THE CONTACT REGAINED CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL, AND MANUALLY STEERED THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE LEFT AND CENTER OF THE ROADWAY. THE CONTACT CONTINUED DRIVING BACK TO THE RESIDENCE WITH NO FURTHER FAILURES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING RACK ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 148,000.
NHTSA ODI #11405534
150,000 miles · Mar 29, 2021
Electrical SystemSteering
WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN AN UPDATED RECALL ON THE 2014 EXPLORER ON LOSING ITS POWER STEERING? I JUST TURNED MY VEHICLE ON TO AUTONATION FORD IN BURLESON, TX TO GET THE REAR TOW LINK RECALL REPAIRED AND THE ASSOCIATE TOLD ME THE POWER STEERING WAS NOT A CAUSE IN THE RECALL AND THAT IT WAS SOMETHING WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE FIXE…
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WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN AN UPDATED RECALL ON THE 2014 EXPLORER ON LOSING ITS POWER STEERING? I JUST TURNED MY VEHICLE ON TO AUTONATION FORD IN BURLESON, TX TO GET THE REAR TOW LINK RECALL REPAIRED AND THE ASSOCIATE TOLD ME THE POWER STEERING WAS NOT A CAUSE IN THE RECALL AND THAT IT WAS SOMETHING WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE FIXED. THIS IS NOT HAPPENING DUE TO FAILURE TO MAINTENANCE OR DUE TO LACK OF TAKING CARE OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING ISSUE AND THE HISTORY PROVES IT! THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE 2011-2013 MODEL FOR THIS BUT NOW THAT IT IS CONTINUING, IT IS NOW THE OWNERS RESPONSIBILITY? THIS EFFECTS THE DRIVING AND IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. YOU HAVE LOW TURNING RADIUS, IT DISENGAGES ALL THE ADVANCED DRIVING MODES, IT ALSO EFFECTS THE BLINKERS. YOU HAVE TO HOLD THE BLINKER DOWN FOR IT TO STAY ON, YOU CANT JUST CLICK THE LEVER AND IT STAYS IN THE BLINKING MODE LIKE IT IS SUPPOSED TOO. IF YOU PUT CRUISE CONTROL ON, THE STEERING CAN LOCK UP AND YOU LITERALLY HAVE TO JERK IT TO GET IT OUT OUT AND BE ABLE TO TURN OR EVEN SWERVE. FORD NEEDS TO TAKE CARE OF THIS BECAUSE YOU CAN SEE BY ALL THE COMPLAINTS AND HISTORY OR REOCCURRENCE, THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND NOT A OWNER ISSUE. IF FORD DOES NOT TAKE CARE OF THIS ISSUE FOR US AND EVEN THE THOUGHT OF IT BEING A CHARGEABLE SERVICE, I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO THIS TO A HIGHER DEMAND TO GET HELP AND TO BRING THIS TO THE ATTENTION TO THE ONES THAT NEED ACT. THIS IS UNSAFE TO ME AND MY FAMILY AS WELL AS ALL THE OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS. THE MANUFACTURING DEFECT NEEDS TO BE FIXED OR OFFER SOME SORT OF SOLUTION FOR THE SAFETY OF THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11405330
35,200 miles · Mar 25, 2021
Exterior Lighting
REAR EXTERIOR TAIL LIGHTS ARE CONTINUING TO GET WATER INSIDE. THERE IS CONDENSATION ALL OVER THE INSIDE OF THE REAR EXTERIOR TAIL LIGHTS.
NHTSA ODI #11404831
35,000 miles · Mar 24, 2021
Air Bags
THE WIRING HARNESS TO THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BECAME DETACHED DUE TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE WIRES AND WITH THE DRIVER SEAT AND PASSENGER SEAT AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING, IT CAN CAUSE THE WIRES TO COME OUT OF PLACE. THE ENTIRE WIRING SYSTEM THAT CONNECTS TO THE SEATBELTS AND IMPACTS THE AIRBAG SYSTEM HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE AIRBAG LIGHT WA…
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THE WIRING HARNESS TO THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BECAME DETACHED DUE TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE WIRES AND WITH THE DRIVER SEAT AND PASSENGER SEAT AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING, IT CAN CAUSE THE WIRES TO COME OUT OF PLACE. THE ENTIRE WIRING SYSTEM THAT CONNECTS TO THE SEATBELTS AND IMPACTS THE AIRBAG SYSTEM HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE AIRBAG LIGHT WAS LIT UP ON MY DASH & I WAS TOLD NONE OF THE AIRBAGS WORKED IN MY VEHICLE IF THIS LIGHT WAS ON. THE REPAIR HAD TO BE DONE AS A SAFETY MEASURE TO ENSURE THE AIR BAGS WOULD WORK AND FUNCTION PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED ON ONE DAY AND THE AIRBAG LIGHT ON THE DASH CAME ON AND CONTINUED TO STAY ON.
NHTSA ODI #11404670
94,000 miles · Mar 22, 2021
Electrical SystemLatches/locks/linkages
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOORS FAILED TO LOCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR AJAR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER RAY PRICE STROUD FORD (6320 US-209 SUITE B, STROUDSBURG, PA 18360, (570) 402-2222) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOORS FAILED TO LOCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR AJAR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER RAY PRICE STROUD FORD (6320 US-209 SUITE B, STROUDSBURG, PA 18360, (570) 402-2222) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT AN UNKNOWN PART NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 94,000.
NHTSA ODI #11404232
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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