IllustrationTL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
2015 Ford Explorer
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Explorer years
Owner complaints for the 2015 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
2420–25K
26025–50K
23350–75K
17675–100K
173100–150K
64150K+
1,148 reports with mileage · 633 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.
- Structure. Review the 407 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Steering. Review the 345 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 226 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
37 crash reports1 fire reports57 injury reports
What owners actually said
1,781 reportsTL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, A WOBBLING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CHECKED THE WHEELS, BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANYTHING ABNORMAL. THE WOBBLING NOISE BECAME WORSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO COLE FORD LINCOLN (410 E CHICAGO ST, COLDWATER, MI 49036, (517) 278-5661) THE DEALER WA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING, A WOBBLING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CHECKED THE WHEELS, BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANYTHING ABNORMAL. THE WOBBLING NOISE BECAME WORSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO COLE FORD LINCOLN (410 E CHICAGO ST, COLDWATER, MI 49036, (517) 278-5661) THE DEALER WAS IN THE PROCESS OF PERFORMING A REAR ALIGNMENT. THE CONTACT DID NOT KNOW THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND TRANSFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
WE ARE EXPERIENCING FRUSTRATION IN GETTING A RESOLUTION TO NOXIOUS EXHAUST FUMES THAT ENTER THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS MOST NOTABLY UPON ACCELERATION (SUCH AS WHEN YOU ENTER THE INTERSTATE AND QUICKLY ACCELERATE). WE HAVE GONE TO A LOCAL REPAIR, CALLED A LOCAL DEALER, CHANGED OUT AIR AND CABIN FILTERS, BUT TO NO AVAI…
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WE ARE EXPERIENCING FRUSTRATION IN GETTING A RESOLUTION TO NOXIOUS EXHAUST FUMES THAT ENTER THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS MOST NOTABLY UPON ACCELERATION (SUCH AS WHEN YOU ENTER THE INTERSTATE AND QUICKLY ACCELERATE). WE HAVE GONE TO A LOCAL REPAIR, CALLED A LOCAL DEALER, CHANGED OUT AIR AND CABIN FILTERS, BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE FUMES ARE HORRIBLE. WE PURCHASED THE CAR FROM A USED CAR LOT IN THE SPRING OF 2018 AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET SOMETHING DONE FROM THE BEGINNING OF OWNING THIS VEHICLE.
-FAILURE OF ELECTRONIC STEERING GEAR- I HAVE A 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WITH 50,000 MILES ON IT. 2 WEEKS AGO I HAD A "STEERING FAULT ASSIST" LIGHT COME ON WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE INTERSTATE. I DID NOT EXPERIENCE AN ISSUE STEERING AT THE TIME. ONCE I PULLED OFF THE INTERSTATE I RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE ALERT WEN…
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-FAILURE OF ELECTRONIC STEERING GEAR- I HAVE A 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WITH 50,000 MILES ON IT. 2 WEEKS AGO I HAD A "STEERING FAULT ASSIST" LIGHT COME ON WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE ON THE INTERSTATE. I DID NOT EXPERIENCE AN ISSUE STEERING AT THE TIME. ONCE I PULLED OFF THE INTERSTATE I RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE ALERT WENT AWAY. 5 DAYS LATER I WAS DIVING IN THE CITY AND THE "STEERING FAULT ASSIST" LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN FOLLOWED BY "ADVANCE TRAK WARNING." I LOST POWER STEERING IMMEDIATELY. I GOT TO AN AREA TO PULL OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE. BOTH WARNINGS IMMEDIATELY CAME BACK ON. I WAS OVER 4 HOURS FROM HOME, SO I HAD TO DRIVE OVER 250 MILES WITHOUT POWER STEERING. I CALLED MULTIPLE FORD SERVICE LOCATIONS IN MY AREA, ONLY ONE WOULD TAKE IT AND LOOK AT IT WITHIN THE WEEK. I FOUND OUT TODAY THAT FOLLOWING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST, I AM NEEDING TO REPLACE THE ELECTRONIC STEERING GEAR AS IT FAILED INTERNALLY. FORD QUOTED ME $2000 + TAX TO FIX IT. AFTER GOING ONLINE, I HAVE FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS OF THE EXACT SAME THING HAPPENING WITH OTHER FORD EXPLORER OWNERS. I AM COMPLETELY DISAPPOINTED IN FORD!
EXHAUST OR EMISSION SYSTEM: CURRENTLY DASH BOARD IS DISPLAYING ENGINE LIGHT WHICH WAS DIAGNOSED TO CODE P420 FOR CATALYTIC CONVERTER OR OXYGEN SENSOR
A LITTLE OVER A MONTH AGO THE LEFT REAR TOE LINK BROKE WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAUSED THE CAR TO LOSE CONTROL AND GO INTO A SIDEWAYS SLIDE, BREAKING THE WHEEL HUB IN THE PROCESS. SMOOTH ROAD GOING ABOUT 50 MPH IN GOOD CONDITIONS. WE GOT THE CAR FIXED AND HAD TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS SINCE THE CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER FACTORY WARRANTY. …
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A LITTLE OVER A MONTH AGO THE LEFT REAR TOE LINK BROKE WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAUSED THE CAR TO LOSE CONTROL AND GO INTO A SIDEWAYS SLIDE, BREAKING THE WHEEL HUB IN THE PROCESS. SMOOTH ROAD GOING ABOUT 50 MPH IN GOOD CONDITIONS. WE GOT THE CAR FIXED AND HAD TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS SINCE THE CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER FACTORY WARRANTY. AFTER THE FORD DEALER IN MCHENRY IL HAD IT FOR OVER A WEEK, WE GOT THE CAR BACK, DROVE IT FOR A FEW DAYS AND SUDDENLY WE HAD A CRACKED EXHAUST FLEX PIPE. WE HAD TO PAY SEVERAL HUNDRED MORE TO GET THAT REPAIRED. AGAIN, DRIVEN ON SMOOTH ROADS IN THE SUMMER, NOTHING THAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THIS SO SUDDENLY. GOT THE CAR BACK AGAIN AFTER SEVERAL MORE DAYS IN THE SHOP.. DROVE IT FOR A COUPLE MORE DAYS AND THE LEFT REAR TOE LINK BROKE.. AGAIN... DEALER THIS TIME INSTALLED THE "RECALL KIT" ON BOTH SIDES. LUCKILY, THIS TIME IT WAS AT SLOW SPEEDS COMING INTO A PARKING LOT . HAD THE CAR TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER. AGAIN.. WE HAVE HAD THE CAR BACK FOR ABOUT 3 DAYS NOW, AND THE LEFT TOE LINK HAS COME LOOSE.. AGAIN.. THE CAR WILL BE TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER TOMORROW BECAUSE IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. IT WAS DRIVEN 3 TIMES AT LOW SPEEDS AROUND TOWN SINCE WE GOT IT BACK. MY WIFE IS NOW AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR OUT OF FEAR OF IT BREAKING AGAIN. THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE IF THE RECALL PART DOESN'T WORK. WHEN THIS PART FAILS, THIS CAR HAS A SEVERE LOSS OF CONTROL AND CAN VERY EASILY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. FORD NEEDS TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED.
AS WE WERE TURNING INTO A PARKING SPACE THERE WAS A POPPING SOUND SO I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER. WE WERE TOLD THAT THE RACK AND PINION WAS DEFECTIVE WHICH IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED IN A FORD AROUND THE 40,000 MILE MARK. IF THE RACK HAD FAILED AT HIGH SPEED IT COULD WELL HAVE BEEN FATAL.
I BOUGHT MY NEW, 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] FOR $59,000 DOLLARS AT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, SERVICE MANAGER [XXX] 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 (505) 292-0000 RICH FORD SERVICE MANAGER [XXX], CONFIRMED THEY HAVE DONE THIS AND ALL NOTICES FROM FORD, TBS16-0165 BECAME FORD RECALL PROGRAM …
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I BOUGHT MY NEW, 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] FOR $59,000 DOLLARS AT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, SERVICE MANAGER [XXX] 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 (505) 292-0000 RICH FORD SERVICE MANAGER [XXX], CONFIRMED THEY HAVE DONE THIS AND ALL NOTICES FROM FORD, TBS16-0165 BECAME FORD RECALL PROGRAM 17N03 AND SUPPLEMENT #1 DATED OCTOBER 26/2017 EXPIRES DECEMBER 31/2019 I FILED COMPLAINTS 08/20/2015 UP UNTIL TODAY WITH, RICH FORD, FORD MOTOR CO, FORD MOTOR CO.COM, ABOUT THE CARBON MONOXIDE COMPLAINT, I HAVE BECOME; SLEEPY, SICK, NAUSEOUS, VOMITING, 08/20/2015 THE RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP SALESMAN INFORMED ME THAT THIS WAS THAT NEW CAR SMELL, I FILED COMPLAINTS 08/28/2015 UNTIL TODAY WITH, THE RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP SALESMAN INFORMED ME AGAIN THAT THIS WAS THAT NEW CAR SMELL, MECHANIC PERFORMING NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST USING HIS NOSE, AND DECLARING THE VEHICLE SAFE, USING ONLY THE NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST, AND I FILED MY COMPLAINT WITH THE BBB ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, THEY REFEREED ME TO BBB DENVER COLORADO THEY REFEREED ME TO BBB AUTO LINE ARLINGTON VA, THEY HAVE SAID IT IS TOO LATE TO FILE MY BBB COMPLAINT [XXX] RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 THEIR MECHANIC HAS REPEATEDLY PERFORMING NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST USING HIS NOSE, AND DECLARING THE VEHICLE SAFE, USING ONLY THE NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST, [XXX] WAS THE SERVICE WRITER, SHE HAS BEEN PROMOTED TO SERVICE MANAGER, [XXX] HAS INFORMED ME THAT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, IS GOING TO START CHARGING ME FOR SERVICE CALLS TO CHECK THIS CARBON MONOXIDE PROBLEM. ON 08/20/2015 BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE, I HAVE COMPLAINED UNTIL NOW, EVEN TODAY 07/2019, THIS DATE, I PURCHASED THE 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] NEW FOR $59,000 DOLLARS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
THE EXHAUST SMELL IS OVERWHELMING WHEN YOU HAVE TO ACCELERATE OVER 3,500 RPMS. THIS IS SOMETIMES NECESSARY WHEN ON HIGHWAYS OR WHEN TRAVELING UP A HILL AT HIGHER SPEEDS. IT IS NOT SAFE TO INHALING EXHAUST FUMES WITHIN THE CABIN. I WORRY ABOUT THE SAFETY OF MY CHILD IN THIS VEHICLE DUE TO THIS ISSUE.
08/20/2015 I BOUGHT MY NEW, 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] FOR $59,000 DOLLARS AT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 (505) 292-0000 I FILED COMPLAINTS 08/20/2015 UP UNTIL TODAY WITH, RICH FORD, FORD MOTOR CO, FORD MOTOR CO.COM, ABOUT THE CARBON MONOXIDE COMPLAINT, I H…
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08/20/2015 I BOUGHT MY NEW, 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] FOR $59,000 DOLLARS AT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 (505) 292-0000 I FILED COMPLAINTS 08/20/2015 UP UNTIL TODAY WITH, RICH FORD, FORD MOTOR CO, FORD MOTOR CO.COM, ABOUT THE CARBON MONOXIDE COMPLAINT, I HAVE BECOME; SLEEPY, SICK, NAUSEOUS, VOMITING, 08/20/2015 THE RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP SALESMAN INFORMED ME THAT THIS WAS THAT NEW CAR SMELL, I FILED COMPLAINTS 08/28/2015 UNTIL TODAY WITH, THE RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP SALESMAN INFORMED ME AGAIN THAT THIS WAS THAT NEW CAR SMELL, MECHANIC PERFORMING NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST USING HIS NOSE, AND DECLARING THE VEHICLE SAFE, USING ONLY THE NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST, AND I FILED MY COMPLAINT WITH THE BBB ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO, THEY REFEREED ME TO BBB DENVER COLORADO THEY REFEREED ME TO BBB AUTO LINE ARLINGTON VA, THEY HAVE SAID IT IS TOO LATE TO FILE MY BBB COMPLAINT [XXX] WITH FORD MOTOR CO COMPLAINT, ABOUT CARBON MONOXIDE FROM THE DAY I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE UNTIL NOW, TODAY, RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, 8601 LOMAS BLVD NE, ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO. 87111 THEIR MECHANIC HAS REPEATEDLY PERFORMING NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST USING HIS NOSE, AND DECLARING THE VEHICLE SAFE, USING ONLY THE NOSE SAFETY SNIFF TEST, [XXX] WAS THE SERVICE WRITER, SHE HAS BEEN PROMOTED TO SERVICE MANAGER, [XXX] HAS INFORMED ME THAT RICH FORD AUTO DEALERSHIP, IS GOING TO START CHARGING ME FOR SERVICE CALLS TO CHECK THIS CARBON MONOXIDE PROBLEM. ON 08/20/2015 BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE, I HAVE COMPLAINED UNTIL NOW, EVEN TODAY 06/2019, THIS DATE, I PURCHASED THE 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] NEW FOR $59,000 DOLLARS. FORD MOTOR CO VS LAWYER 2015 FORD EXPLORER SPORT, VIN [XXX] REFERENCE TO FORD MOTOR CO, NO 0:14-CV-61344-WPD 08/28/2015 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Official recalls
825V695000 · Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Oct 13, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermittent, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on October 25, 2025. Additional letters will be mailed once the final remedy is available on each phase. Mustang owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA9. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 14, 2025.
24V031000 · 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.
15V464000 · Parking Brake
Jul 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015. The affected vehicles have a parking brake that may not fully engage when applied. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the operation of the parking brake system, and if necessary, replace the parking brake control assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 4, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C07.
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
5PE23001 · 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.
PE15017 · Front Brake Hose Failure
Opened Apr 29, 2015 · Closed Sep 28, 2015
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 reports of low-mileage failures of front brake jounce hoses in model year (MY) 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles operated as training vehicles by the City of Sacramento, California (ODI VOQ No. 10705832). To date, the Sacramento police fleet has reported a total of 7 front hose failures in 5 different Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles used for its Emergency Vehicle Operation Course (EVOC) training. Most of the failures occurred within the first few miles of service on a closed course used for the EVOC program, which includes evasive accident avoidance and pursuit maneuver training. The hose assemblies either leaked at, or pulled completely free from, the caliper-end attachment where the hose is crimped to the steel end fitting. Most of the failures resulted in a sudden loss of braking performance that caused the vehicle to run off the intended course. None of the failures resulted in any crashes, injuries or property damage.The subject MY 2015 hose assemblies are similar in design to hoses used on MY 2013 through 2014 Explorer Police Interceptor and civilian vehicles. The 5 vehicles used by Sacramento EVOC have all been repaired using MY 2016 front hose assemblies that have been changed to incorporate a short steel tube attached to the caliper end banjo block. No failures have been experienced by the Sacramento fleet to date in the other 37 MY 2014-2015 Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles (2 MY 2014 and 35 MY 2015) used by the fleet in regular law enforcement duty cycles unrelated to the EVOC training. In its response to ODI's information request letter for PE15-017, Ford provided information about 2 additional failures reported by other fleets, including 1 involving a Sacramento Regional Transit vehicle that occurred while being driven on the street.Based on its analysis of failed parts returned from the Sacramento fleet and the fleet's EVOC training duty cycle, Ford attributes the Sacramento fleet hose failures to excessive temperatures produced during hot-soak portions of the EVOC training duty cycle (when the vehicles are stationary after hard braking exercises, with no cooling air flow through the brake rotor vents and across the other brake components). During testing conducted to replicate the EVOC duty cycle, Ford measured temperatures at the subject crimp fittings that exceeded the design limits of the brake hose material after several successive training intervals and hot soaks. Ford has provided the Sacramento fleet with modified replacement hose assemblies for all of its MY 2014-15 Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles. The replacement hose assemblies were developed for use in MY 2016 Explorer vehicles and were modified slightly to accommodate the addition of a ride height sensor in those vehicles. The revised assemblies have an additional length of brake pipe between the caliper end connection and the subject crimp ferrule that results in additional heat dissipation and makes the assemblies more robust to the severe thermal effects experienced during the EVOC testing (the hose material is the same in both assemblies). Ford believes that the excessive temperatures experienced at the crimp fitting in the subject vehicles are unique to the EVOC duty cycle, have not been observed in the standard on-road severe duty cycle testing performed by Ford and police fleets who routinely conduct such testing and are not likely to occur in service usage for on-road Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles.This preliminary evaluation is closed, an Engineering Analysis (EA15-005) has been opened to conduct testing and further