NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Engine complaints
381 reportsClear category filter20,000 miles · Sep 28, 2017
Engine
3-5 SECONDS AFTER A HARD ACCELERATION (NEAR OR AT FULL THROTTLE), THE CABIN FILLS WITH A STRONG, BURNING FLUID SMELL. I CANNOT PIN POINT THE SOURCE OF THE SMELL BUT IT HAPPENS 100% OF THE TIME. THIS HAPPENS ONLY IN MOTION UNDER HARD ACCELERATION ON ANY TYPE OF STREET. I USE 93 OCTANE AND FULL SYNTHETIC MOTORCRAFT 5W-30. I HAVE H…
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3-5 SECONDS AFTER A HARD ACCELERATION (NEAR OR AT FULL THROTTLE), THE CABIN FILLS WITH A STRONG, BURNING FLUID SMELL. I CANNOT PIN POINT THE SOURCE OF THE SMELL BUT IT HAPPENS 100% OF THE TIME. THIS HAPPENS ONLY IN MOTION UNDER HARD ACCELERATION ON ANY TYPE OF STREET. I USE 93 OCTANE AND FULL SYNTHETIC MOTORCRAFT 5W-30. I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE IN FOR WARRANTY REPAIR FOR AN UNKNOWN NOISE AND I WAS TOLD THE EXHAUST WAS SLIGHTLY OUT OF ALIGNMENT. THIS DID NOT FIX THE NOISE AND THE SMELL HAS REMAINED AS WELL.
NHTSA ODI #11030276
22,600 miles · Sep 27, 2017
Engine
UPON STRONGER THAN USUAL ACCELERATION OR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OR BOTH, THE SMELL OF EXHAUST CAN BE DETECTED IN THE CABIN. UNDER HARD ACCELERATION, THE SMELL OF ROTTEN EGGS BECOMES VERY STRONG IN THE CABIN. AFTER TRIPS LONGER THAN AN HOUR, WITH AC OR HEAT RUNNING (NO OPEN WINDOWS), I HAVE BECOME VERY ILL, WITH FEARSOME HEADACHE, NAU…
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UPON STRONGER THAN USUAL ACCELERATION OR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OR BOTH, THE SMELL OF EXHAUST CAN BE DETECTED IN THE CABIN. UNDER HARD ACCELERATION, THE SMELL OF ROTTEN EGGS BECOMES VERY STRONG IN THE CABIN. AFTER TRIPS LONGER THAN AN HOUR, WITH AC OR HEAT RUNNING (NO OPEN WINDOWS), I HAVE BECOME VERY ILL, WITH FEARSOME HEADACHE, NAUSEA, LETHARGY, AND GASTROINTESTINAL DISTRESS. PASSENGERS HAVE ALSO REPORTED HEADACHE, NAUSEA, AND FEELING TIRED. WE BELIEVE THIS MAY BE DUE TO EXHAUST ENTERING THE CABIN AND CAUSING CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. YESTERDAY, ON A LONGER TRIP FROM MILWAUKEE, WI TO CHICAGO, IL AND BACK, I BECAME SO ILL THAT UPON RETURNING HOME, I FELL ASLEEP IMMEDIATELY WITH THE WORST HEADACHE OF MY ADULT LIFE. INTENSE NAUSEA LASTED FROM 2PM (ABOUT 3/4 OF THE WAY THROUGH THE DRIVE) UNTIL ABOUT 9PM. THIS HAS HAPPENED CONSISTENTLY DURING LONGER (GREATER THAN 20-30 MILES) TRIPS. HYDROGEN SULFIDE SMELL IS APPARENT MOST DURING WIDE-OPEN ACCELERATIONS BEFORE ENGINE WARM-UP.
NHTSA ODI #11030135
16,000 miles · Sep 25, 2017
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other
WHEN ACCELERATING OR GOING UP INCLINE CAR STARTS TO SMELL LIKE CARBON MONOXIDE (LIKE THE HEATER IS ON). CIRCULATION IS WITHIN CAR. IN ORDER TO GET OUT MUST PUT ON OUTSIDE CIRCULATION AND ROLL DOWN WINDOWS.
NHTSA ODI #11025358
Mileage unknown · Sep 13, 2017
EngineUnknown Or Other
I PURCHASED MY NEW CAR DURING OCTOBER 2015 FROM DEALER IN VA. AFTER SOME TIME, DRIVING THE CAR NOTICED AN ODOR LIKE ROTTEN EGG COMES AND GOES. HOWEVER, I THOUGHT, IT COULD BE DUE TO THE NEW CAR. LATER TIME, I NOTICED EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR, I FEEL TIRED, HAVING HEADACHES, LACK OF ENERGY, AND FALLING SLEEP. I CONSULTED WITH M…
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I PURCHASED MY NEW CAR DURING OCTOBER 2015 FROM DEALER IN VA. AFTER SOME TIME, DRIVING THE CAR NOTICED AN ODOR LIKE ROTTEN EGG COMES AND GOES. HOWEVER, I THOUGHT, IT COULD BE DUE TO THE NEW CAR. LATER TIME, I NOTICED EVERY TIME I DRIVE THE CAR, I FEEL TIRED, HAVING HEADACHES, LACK OF ENERGY, AND FALLING SLEEP. I CONSULTED WITH MY DOCTORS AND THEY REALLY DID NOT FIND ANYTHING. UNTIL RECENTLY, WATCHING CHANEL 4 NEWS AND THEY WERE REPORTING THE PROBLEM WITH EXPLORER EXHAUST SYSTEM AND POSSIBLE CARBON MONOXIDE LEAK INTO INTERIOR OF THE CAR. PLEASE ADVISE IF THIS ISSUE IS ACCURATE AND WHAT WE HAVE TO DO TO FIX IT. THANKS
NHTSA ODI #11023334
20,000 miles · Sep 11, 2017
Electrical SystemEngineUnknown Or Other
I HAVE A 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION UNDER MY DADS NAME AND MY WIFE IS THE PRIMARY DRIVER ON IT. AFTER GETTING OUR CAR I DROVE IT DAILY AS COMMUTER FOR 2 MONTHS AND SOMETIMES I SMELL SOMETHING BAD INSIDE LIKE BURNED TIRES BUT I JUST IGNORED IT BECAUSE I SAID MY CAR IS BNEW AND MAYBE ITS FROM OUTSIDE AND AFTER THAT MY WIF…
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I HAVE A 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION UNDER MY DADS NAME AND MY WIFE IS THE PRIMARY DRIVER ON IT. AFTER GETTING OUR CAR I DROVE IT DAILY AS COMMUTER FOR 2 MONTHS AND SOMETIMES I SMELL SOMETHING BAD INSIDE LIKE BURNED TIRES BUT I JUST IGNORED IT BECAUSE I SAID MY CAR IS BNEW AND MAYBE ITS FROM OUTSIDE AND AFTER THAT MY WIFE START DRIVING IT BUT LAST DECEMBER 2016 WE WENT TO VEGAS AND I JANSSEN (HUSBAND) IS THE ONE DRIVING ON THE CAR AND SMELLED SOMETHING BURNED TIRES INSIDE THE CAR WHILE CRUISING ON IT, I CHECKED THE TIRES/BREAK OUTSIDE BUT I DONT SMELL IT FROM OUTSIDE, SO AFTER THAT WE WENT TO OUR DEALER AND CHECKED IT FOUND OUT THERES A CARBON MONOXIDE PRESENT INSIDE AND THEY FIXED IT BY COVERING THE HOLES OF THE CAR THAT MAY BE THE ENTRY OF SMOKE FROM OUTSIDE AND UPDATING THE SYSTEM AS PER SERVICE GUY TOLD ME "RENE" AND SAID EVERYTHING WORKS WELL NOW. AFTER FEW MONTHS IT WAS JUNE 2017 I SMELLED IT AGAIN AND CONCERNED ME MORE BECAUSE MY WIFE IS PREGNANT AND I KNOW CO2 IS REALLY BAD ON OUR HEALTH AND I KNOW THAT BECAUSE WE ARE BOTH NURSES AND WE SENT IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND MY SERVICE GUY "LUIS " TOLD ME THEY PUT SOME RUBBER IN THE REAR DOOR FOR THE PURPOSE OF SEALING THE DOOR THAT MAYBE THE SMOKE FROM THE EXHAUST IS THE ONE CAUSING IT AND TAKE NOTE " THE CAR STAYS 1 WEEK IN THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT". AND NOW SEPT 2017 THE SAME THING IS HAPPENING AND I CALLED MY DEALERSHIP, I SPOKE TO LUIS AND CASEY AND THEY TOLD ME THERE'S STILL WAITING FOR THE SERVICE MANAGER BECAUSE THEY ARE BUSSY, I TOLD THEM MY CONCERN THAT MY WIFE IS PREGNANT SHE'S ON 8 MONTHS NOW AND IT MAKES ME REALLY CONCERNED OF WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THE CAR BUT THEY JUST TOLD ME TO WAIT, AND MY WIFE DAILY CAR IS IT. SO INCASE SOMETHING HAPPEN WITH MY FAMILY THIS IS NOT REALLY SAFE FOR US, SO I REALLY NEED A BIG HELP FROM YOU NHTSA THAT WE CAN SOLVE THIS PROBLEM, I HEARD OTHERS TOO ESP POLICE. TY
NHTSA ODI #11022723
10 miles · Sep 11, 2017
EngineStructureSuspension
SINCE I HAVE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN FEBRUARY 16 IT HAS BEEN BACK FOR SERVICE NURMOUS TIMES, STARTING 2 DAYS AFTER DELIVERY! MAJOR COMPLAINT HAS BEEN COOLENT LOSS AND BURNING COOLANT SMELL FOLLOWING WITH A OIL LEAK AT THE SAME TIME. THIS IS A NEW VEHICLE 10 MILES ON IT SHOULDN'T HAVE THESE ISSUES SO I DEMANDED A DIFFERENT VEHIC…
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SINCE I HAVE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN FEBRUARY 16 IT HAS BEEN BACK FOR SERVICE NURMOUS TIMES, STARTING 2 DAYS AFTER DELIVERY! MAJOR COMPLAINT HAS BEEN COOLENT LOSS AND BURNING COOLANT SMELL FOLLOWING WITH A OIL LEAK AT THE SAME TIME. THIS IS A NEW VEHICLE 10 MILES ON IT SHOULDN'T HAVE THESE ISSUES SO I DEMANDED A DIFFERENT VEHICLE, WAS REFUSED DUE TO DEMOGRAPHICS! WELL THE DEALER BRUSHES EVERYTHING OFF AS ALL DO SAY IT'S NORMAL IT HAPPENS, AS TIME PASSES IT GOES BACK TO THE DEALER FOR SAME ISSUE THEY REPLACED A OIL SEAL AGAIN AND COOLANT LOSS AND SMELL IS NORMAL TO THEM, THEY CAN'T FIND ANY ISSUES, I TELL THEM IT'S AFTER LONG DRIVES WELL EACH TIME THEY HAVE IT OVER A WEEK. TO BOOT THEY IGNORE MY COMPLAINT ABOUT THE ROTTEN EGG SMELL I GET ON ACCELERATION! THEY TELL ME IT'S PROBABLY THE GAS I'M USING, MIND YOU THIS IS VERBAL AFTER THE FACT, THEY DID NOT WANT TO PUT IT ON THE WORK ORDER. THEY ORDERED A NEW STEERING WHEEL DUE TO IT PEELING. I WAS ALSO TOLD THAT TECHNICALLY I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DIAGNOSIS IF THEY DO NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG AND THAT I HAD TO COVER THE TECHS TIME, WELL I HAVE TO TAKE IT BACK IN AGAIN FOR NO COOLANT IN THE OVERFLOW FOUL SMELL COMING FROM THE VENTS AND EXAUST SMELL IN THE CABIN. THE VEHICLE HAS 14900 MI SHOULD NOT HAVE THESE PROBLEMS ESPICALY COSTING WHAT IT DID
NHTSA ODI #11022581
18,000 miles · Sep 7, 2017
EngineUnknown Or Other
WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE UPHILL OR ACCELERATING ONTO THE HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY THERE IS A STRONG EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE COMING FROM THE VENTS. IT WAS DETECTED EARLIER THIS YEAR, HOWEVER WE DID SOME EXTRA DRIVING THROUGH THE SUMMER TO CONFIRM THE ISSUE. ONCE CONFIRMED, WE TOOK IT TO OUR FORD DEALER. THEY COULD NOT …
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WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE UPHILL OR ACCELERATING ONTO THE HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY THERE IS A STRONG EXHAUST ODOR IN THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE COMING FROM THE VENTS. IT WAS DETECTED EARLIER THIS YEAR, HOWEVER WE DID SOME EXTRA DRIVING THROUGH THE SUMMER TO CONFIRM THE ISSUE. ONCE CONFIRMED, WE TOOK IT TO OUR FORD DEALER. THEY COULD NOT RECREATE THE ISSUE, BUT HAD AN IDEA AS HOW TO FIX THE ISSUE. TO FIX IT, THEY HAD TO GET APPROVAL FROM FORD CORPORATE TO DO THE FIX. FORD CORPORATE TOLD THEM THERE WAS NO ISSUE SINCE IT COULD NOT BE RECREATED, AND WE CAN PICK UP THE VEHICLE AT ANY TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS DROPPED OFF AT OUR DEALERSHIP ON AUGUST 31, 2017. WE WERE NOTIFIED TODAY (SEPT. 7, 2017) THAT THE VEHICLE HAS NO ISSUE; THAT THE PROBLEM IS NOT ON THE CIVILIAN EXPLORERS.
NHTSA ODI #11022229
Mileage unknown · Sep 4, 2017
EngineInjury
2016 FORD EXPLORER XLT V6 TI-VCT FLEX FUEL VEHICLE (FFV). EXHAUST ENTERS CABIN DURING ACCELERATION. PUTRID ODOR OF EXHAUST RESEMBLES A FOUL BLEND OF VOMIT, ROTTEN EGGS, BURNT HAIR, BURNT WAX. HEADACHE AND HORRIBLE SMELL LINGERS IN SINUSES CONTINUES TO DAY FOLLOWING EXPOSURE. STENCH IS MUCH WORSE UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION AND/…
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2016 FORD EXPLORER XLT V6 TI-VCT FLEX FUEL VEHICLE (FFV). EXHAUST ENTERS CABIN DURING ACCELERATION. PUTRID ODOR OF EXHAUST RESEMBLES A FOUL BLEND OF VOMIT, ROTTEN EGGS, BURNT HAIR, BURNT WAX. HEADACHE AND HORRIBLE SMELL LINGERS IN SINUSES CONTINUES TO DAY FOLLOWING EXPOSURE. STENCH IS MUCH WORSE UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION AND/OR DRIVING UPHILL WITH REAR A/C ON HIGH FAN SPEED. FORD SERVICE ACKNOWLEDGED WIDE-SPREAD PROBLEM PERFORMED TSB 17-0044 SEALING UNDERBODY SEAMS, REPROGRAMING REAR A/C AND REPLACING EXHAUST COMPONENTS. TSB 17-0044 IS INEFFECTIVE AND PROBLEM PERSISTS. 1. FORD HAS NOT ISOLATED SOURCE OF EXCESSIVE CARBON MONOXIDE (CO), HYDROCARBONS (HCS) AND NITROGEN OXIDES (NOX). IS ENGINE DEFLECTION UNDER ACCELERATION IMPACTING EXHAUST MANIFOLDS CAUSING LEAKAGE IN PIPE JOINTS? IS RICH FUEL MIXTURE IN ENGINE WITH UNBURNED FUEL PRODUCING ELEVATED CATALYTIC TEMPERATURES DAMAGING MANIFOLDS OR JOINTS? ARE FFV ENGINES FITTED WITH UNDERSIZED OR FAULTY CATALYTIC CONVERTERS? 2. EXHAUST SYSTEM FAILS TO EXPEL EXHAUST AWAY FROM VEHICLE. FORD ACKNOWLEDGES AS EVIDENCED BY TSB 17-0044 REPLACING MUFFLERS AND EXHAUST TIPS. 3. EXHAUST GASSES POOL IN BUMPER COVER AND NUMEROUS CAVITIES UNDER BODY. 4. AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FANS ACTIVELY PULL EXHAUST INTO THE VEHICLE LIKELY THROUGH AIR EXTRACTOR VENTS IN QUARTER PANELS. FORD ACKNOWLEDGES AS EVIDENCED BY TSB 17-0044 REPLACING AIR EXTRACTOR VENTS AND REPROGRAMMING REAR A/C TO SLOW OR HALT FANS UNDER VARIOUS BRAKING SCENARIOS. FORD MISREPRESENTING ELEVATED CO LEVELS ONLY FOUND IN POLICE INTERCEPTORS. AFTER FORD SERVICE SEALED SEAMS PER TSB 17-0044, I DETECTED 17 PPM OF CO IN TWO DETECTORS. FORD MUST EVALUATE EVERY EXHAUST COMPONENT UNDER LOADING FOR DEFLECTION AND EXCESSIVE HEAT. CAN EXHAUST ENTER VIA MID BODY, ENGINE COMPARTMENT OR COWL IN ADDITION TO REAR OF VEHICLE? PICS ILLUSTRATE REAR INFILTRATION.
NHTSA ODI #11021382
23,000 miles · Aug 22, 2017
EngineFire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED A "TEMPORARY DISABLE" MESSAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD, FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, AND THROUGH THE AIR VENTS. THE DRIVER COASTED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE …
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED A "TEMPORARY DISABLE" MESSAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD, FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, AND THROUGH THE AIR VENTS. THE DRIVER COASTED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE ENGINE BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE ORIGINATED FROM UNDERNEATH THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. NEITHER A FIRE NOR A POLICE REPORT WERE FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOWING LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT CALLED KUNES COUNTRY FORD LINCOLN DEALER (LOCATED AT 2811 N LOCUST ST, STERLING, IL 61081) AND WAS INFORMED TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND REFERRED TO HIS INSURANCE CO. THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT OFFER FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,000.
NHTSA ODI #11018988
5,000 miles · Aug 19, 2017
EngineUnknown Or Other
FOR THE PAST YEAR I HAVE SMELLED EXHAUST IN MY BRAND NEW VEHICLE. ABOUT 9 MONTHS AGO I HAD IT TESTED AT FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT FOR POSSIBLE CARBON MONOXIDE BECAUSE THE EXHAUST SMELL WAS BAD, PARTICULARLY WHEN HITTING SPEEDS AROUND 70MPH. FORD LAUGHED AT AND SAID THERE IS NOTHING WRONG. THE SMELL CONTINUED, MYSELF AND MY DA…
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FOR THE PAST YEAR I HAVE SMELLED EXHAUST IN MY BRAND NEW VEHICLE. ABOUT 9 MONTHS AGO I HAD IT TESTED AT FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT FOR POSSIBLE CARBON MONOXIDE BECAUSE THE EXHAUST SMELL WAS BAD, PARTICULARLY WHEN HITTING SPEEDS AROUND 70MPH. FORD LAUGHED AT AND SAID THERE IS NOTHING WRONG. THE SMELL CONTINUED, MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER WOULD GET HEADACHES, SHORTNESS OF BREATH AND I WOULD FEEL NAUSEOUS AFTER DRIVING A LONG PERIOD OF TIME. EARLIER THIS WEEK I WAS SO DIZZY, I NEEDED TO PULL OVER TWICE JUST TO GAIN MY FOCUS. I PURCHASED A CARBON MONOXIDE TESTER. YES, THERE IS CARBON MONOXIDE. I AM A BIT FRUSTRATED SINCE THE ISSUE COULD HAVE BEEN FIXED PREVIOUSLY, RATHER THAN LAUGHED AT ME AND I ENDURED POOR HEALTH FOR SO LONG.
NHTSA ODI #11016348
Official recalls
14Jul 14, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 28, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S54. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Oct 10, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
May 23, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Door trim that detaches while driving can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the B-pillar trim, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 5, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S53.
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.
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.
May 5, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips and roof rail covers, as necessary, free of charge. The interim owner notification letter was mailed on June 22, 2021. Owner notification letters (remedy available) were mailed on October 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S22.
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.
Nov 29, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tightness of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt, either applying threadlocker or replacing the lift link and hardware, free of charge. Interim letters are expected to go out January 15, 2018. Owners will receive a second notice when the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S40.
Jun 28, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall begin on August 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 16C11.
Mar 31, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines and engine block heaters. These engine block heaters have elements that may overheat while plugged in.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S14. Note: Owners should not use the engine block heater until the vehicle has been remedied.
Sep 28, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015. During vehicle production, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been properly tightened. As a result, the fuel tank straps may fracture and the fuel tank could separate from the vehicle.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the fuel tank attachment bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S26.
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
2PE23001 · 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
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