NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Fuel/propulsion System complaints
104 reportsClear category filter1,214 miles · Jul 5, 2016
Fuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other
MY VEHICLE EMITS EXHAUST IN THE CABIN WHILE DRIVING. UPON ACCELERATION AND DECELERATION, THE EXHAUST SMELL IS SO POTENT, ME AND MY PASSENGERS HAVE TO ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS. I RETURNED THE VEHICLE THE DAY AFTER PURCHASING TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS AND HAVE RETURNED IT FOR REPAIRS MANY TIMES SINCE. THEY HAVE SEALED ALL OP…
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MY VEHICLE EMITS EXHAUST IN THE CABIN WHILE DRIVING. UPON ACCELERATION AND DECELERATION, THE EXHAUST SMELL IS SO POTENT, ME AND MY PASSENGERS HAVE TO ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS. I RETURNED THE VEHICLE THE DAY AFTER PURCHASING TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS AND HAVE RETURNED IT FOR REPAIRS MANY TIMES SINCE. THEY HAVE SEALED ALL OPENINGS UNDER THE VEHICLE, REPLACED THE EXHAUST SYSTEM, AND REPLACED THE VENTS IN THE BUMPER. FORD HAS ACKNOWLEDGED THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH MY EXPLORER, HOWEVER, THEY ARE UNABLE TO FIX IT. MY LAST REPAIR VISIT IN JUNE 2016, I WAS NOTIFIED THAT I NEED TO COME PICK UP MY VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY COULD DO NOTHING ELSE FOR IT. THEY HAVE TRIED TO REPAIR IT AND THEY ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR THE ISSUE. THIS HAS CAUSED VARIOUS HEALTH ISSUES FOR ME, WHICH INCLUDE, HEADACHES AND NAUSEA. FORD HAS IGNORED ALL OF MY REQUEST TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. I AM CONCERNED I AM BEING POISONED BY EXHAUST.
NHTSA ODI #10882646
17,700 miles · Jul 1, 2016
Fuel/propulsion System
THROTTLE BODY - HAS FAILED. ORANGE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON , RIGHT AFTER MAKING A RIGHT TURN AND CAR WENT INTO WHAT IS CALLED "LIMP MODE". THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS AT LEAST 200 MILES AWAY FROM HOME, IN MID SIZE CITY.
NHTSA ODI #10881991
4,000 miles · Jun 29, 2016
EngineFuel/propulsion System
2016 POLICE UTILITY: WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE DOWN THE HIGHWAY WHILE TRANSPORTING A PRISONER. VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY LOST POWER. VEHICLE WOULDN'T ACCELERATE. VEHICLE HAD STEERING AND BRAKE ONLY. VEHICLE MOTOR BEGAN TO SHAKE AND MISFIRE. VEHICLE TOWED TO FORD DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA ODI #10881594
3,750 miles · Jun 28, 2016
EngineFuel/propulsion SystemVehicle Speed Control
I WAS DRIVING HOME AT 10:00 AM AFTER VISITING A DOCTOR'S OFFICE ON A BUSY HIGHWAY AT 57 MPH WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR GAS PEDDLE IS NOT WORKING. THE CAR IS IN COMPLETE SHUT DOWN MODE. I ROLLED THROUGH AN INTERSECTION TO GET TO SAFE PLACE OUT OF TRAFFIC. THE CAR DASH BOARD SHOWED A WRENCH AND ENGINE LIGHT AND ON THE DASHBOA…
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I WAS DRIVING HOME AT 10:00 AM AFTER VISITING A DOCTOR'S OFFICE ON A BUSY HIGHWAY AT 57 MPH WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR GAS PEDDLE IS NOT WORKING. THE CAR IS IN COMPLETE SHUT DOWN MODE. I ROLLED THROUGH AN INTERSECTION TO GET TO SAFE PLACE OUT OF TRAFFIC. THE CAR DASH BOARD SHOWED A WRENCH AND ENGINE LIGHT AND ON THE DASHBOARD A MESSAGE STATED "SEE MANUAL". THE CAR HAD COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN. SCARED TO DEATH AT WHAT JUST HAPPENED, I CALLED FORD WARRANTY NUMBER FOR A TOW TRUCK AND WAITED FOR 2 1/2 HOURS TILL FINALLY THE TOW TRUCK SHOWED UP. WHEN I GOT TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED THE CAR, I WAS SERIOUSLY DEVASTATED. TWO MANAGERS TOLD ME THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE CAR, BUT THEY WOULD WORK TO FIND OUT. THEY KNEW WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS AND HOW SERIOUS THIS SITUATION WAS AND NEVER TOLD ME AT THE TIME. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET AND FOUND THAT THE PROBLEM IS THE THROTTLE BODY. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING A QUITE A FEW OF FORD'S CARS. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THE VERY SERIOUS SITUATION I HAD BEEN IN. I SEARCHED TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE AND THERE WASN'T ANY. THIS NEEDS TO STOP AND FORD NEEDS TO RECALL ALL THESE VEHICLES BEFORE SOMEBODY GETS KILLED. I DO NOT CARE TO OWN THIS VEHICLE ANY LONGER OR ANY OTHER FORD VEHICLE FOR THAT MATTER.. WHOSE TO SAY THIS PROBLEM DOESN'T EXIST IN ANY OTHER MODELS. I WAS CALLED YESTERDAY BUT JUSTIN IN SERVICE AND WAS TOLD THAT IT IS THE THROTTLE BODY AND IT WAS GOING TO TAKE ALONG TIME TO GET THE PART AND THAT HE WOULD STAY IN TOUCH TO LET ME KNOW ANYTHING. HE STATED THAT SAM GALLAWAY FORD WOULD PAY FOR THE 1ST 9 DAYS OF MY RENTAL AND THEN MY INSURANCE WOULD HAVE TO PAY THE REST.
NHTSA ODI #10877111
4,000 miles · Jun 27, 2016
EngineFuel/propulsion System
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THE THERE WAS A FUEL ODOR BEING RELEASED INTO THE VEHICLE. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE ODOR WAS PRESENT AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT NO REMEDY WAS PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOW…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THE THERE WAS A FUEL ODOR BEING RELEASED INTO THE VEHICLE. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE ODOR WAS PRESENT AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT NO REMEDY WAS PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
NHTSA ODI #10876801
8,000 miles · Jun 26, 2016
EngineFuel/propulsion System
ON 06/24/2016 I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY NORTH ON I95 THE BELT WAY / MARYLAND 5 LANES OF TRAVEL IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. WITHOUT WARNING OUR 2016 FORD EXPLORER COMPLETELY LOST POWER AND A WRENCH INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON THE DISPLAY. THIS WAS IN THE APPROACH OF THE FT.MC HENERY TUNNEL WE HAD NO PLACE TO GO WITH A TRACTOR TRAILER ALMOST STR…
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ON 06/24/2016 I WAS DRIVING MY FAMILY NORTH ON I95 THE BELT WAY / MARYLAND 5 LANES OF TRAVEL IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. WITHOUT WARNING OUR 2016 FORD EXPLORER COMPLETELY LOST POWER AND A WRENCH INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON THE DISPLAY. THIS WAS IN THE APPROACH OF THE FT.MC HENERY TUNNEL WE HAD NO PLACE TO GO WITH A TRACTOR TRAILER ALMOST STRIKING US,MY FAMILY WAS TERRIFIED . THE VEHICLE DID START AGAIN 3 MINUTES LATER WITH NORMAL RPMS WE ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE ON WITH THIS HAPPENING 4 MORE TIMES CAUSING US TO GO TO THE SHOULDER. I AM A POLICE OFFICER AND A TRAFFIC INVESTIGATOR I AM IN FEAR BECAUSE THIS IS A WELL KNOWN PROBLEM AND WE WERE NOT CONTACTED BY FORD ABOUT THIS PROBLEM MY FAMILIES SAFETY AND THE PUBLICS IS AT AN EXTREME RISK, THIS MUST BE ADDRESSED BEFORE A TRAGEDY HAPPENS. I HAVE SINCE CALLED MY DEALER LESTER GLENN FORD IN N.J. AND THEY WILL CHECK THE VEHICLE HOWEVER IF THE PUBLIC IS NOT MADE AWARE OF THIS LIVES MAY BE LOST THAT COULD HAVE BEEN SAVED .
NHTSA ODI #10876696
7,300 miles · Jun 24, 2016
Fuel/propulsion System
4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASING A NEW EXPLORER, IT BEGAN TO LURCH WHILE WAITING AT RED LIGHTS. THAT SAME WEEK, WHILE DRIVING ON THE DALLAS NORTH TOLLWAY (70 MPH), THE DASHBOARD LIT UP AND THE CAR BEGAN TO DECELERATE (GAS PEDAL DID NOT WORK). AFTER DODGING CARS, I MADE IT OVER 3 LANES WITH THE HAZARD LIGHTS ON AND PROCEEDED TO THE EXI…
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4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASING A NEW EXPLORER, IT BEGAN TO LURCH WHILE WAITING AT RED LIGHTS. THAT SAME WEEK, WHILE DRIVING ON THE DALLAS NORTH TOLLWAY (70 MPH), THE DASHBOARD LIT UP AND THE CAR BEGAN TO DECELERATE (GAS PEDAL DID NOT WORK). AFTER DODGING CARS, I MADE IT OVER 3 LANES WITH THE HAZARD LIGHTS ON AND PROCEEDED TO THE EXIT RAMP. I WAS ABLE TO SLOWLY PULL OFF THE RAMP ACROSS 3 LANES (ROLLING) TO A PARKING LOT. THE EXPLORER HAD TO BE TOWED (FLATBED) TO THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA ODI #10876456
13,000 miles · Jun 20, 2016
Fuel/propulsion SystemVehicle Speed Control
I WAS DRIVING IN THE LEFT LANE OF AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AT ~65 MPH WHEN MY VEHICLE DECELERATED DOWN TO 15 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS STILL RUNNING BUT IT WAS ESSENTIALLY 'DEAD' IN THAT NOTHING HAPPENED WHEN YOU STEP ON THE GAS PEDAL. I WAS LOSING SPEED BY THE SECOND AND COULD NOT MAKE IT OVER TO THE RIGHT LANE DUE TO HEAVY TRAFFIC, …
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I WAS DRIVING IN THE LEFT LANE OF AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AT ~65 MPH WHEN MY VEHICLE DECELERATED DOWN TO 15 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS STILL RUNNING BUT IT WAS ESSENTIALLY 'DEAD' IN THAT NOTHING HAPPENED WHEN YOU STEP ON THE GAS PEDAL. I WAS LOSING SPEED BY THE SECOND AND COULD NOT MAKE IT OVER TO THE RIGHT LANE DUE TO HEAVY TRAFFIC, SO I WAS LUCKY AND FOUND A SMALL LEFT SHOULD TO PULL OVER ON. IF THERE WAS NO LEFT SHOULDER, I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE OUTCOME WOULD HAVE BEEN. AFTER BEING TOWED TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALER/SERVICE SHOP, IT WAS DETERMINED TO BE AN ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY(ETB) WHICH FAILED. FORD REPLACED THE ETB, BUT STATED THE REPLACEMENT ETB WAS THE SAME AS THE ONE WHICH FAILED. THERE WAS NO REASSURANCE THAT THE PROBLEMATIC ETB WAS BEING REPLACED WITH A MORE DURABLE SOLUTION. THE FORD SERVICE SHOP MENTIONED THAT THIS HAS BEEN A MAJOR ISSUE IN 2015 & 2016 FORD EXPLORERS, BUT THERE IS NO OFFICIAL RECALL. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ON MY OWN, I WAS DISTURBED TO FIND THAT THERE HAVE BEEN MANY RECENT ETB FAILURES ON FORD EXPLORERS. CONSIDERING THIS ISSUE RELATES DIRECTLY TO THE ABILITY OF THE DRIVER TO ACCELERATE, IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD. IF THE DRIVER LOSES THE ABILITY TO MOVE OFF THE ROAD, THERE MANY ACCIDENTS WAITING TO HAPPEN.
NHTSA ODI #10875455
1,000 miles · Jun 10, 2016
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemStructure
HI I NEED HELP WE ARE HAVING ISSUE WITH OUR 2016 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WE ONLY HAVE IT FOR 3 MONTHS 2K MILEAGE, WE NOTICED THE HOOD VIBRATE AT 65MPH OR OVER ON FREEWAY, I BROUGHT IT TO MY NEAREST FORD DEALER, "FORD SERRAMONTE" ON 05/16/16 THE SERVICE MANAGER NAME HENRY SAID THEY ARE AWARE OF IT BUT COULDN'T DO ANYTHING & THEY ARE …
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HI I NEED HELP WE ARE HAVING ISSUE WITH OUR 2016 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WE ONLY HAVE IT FOR 3 MONTHS 2K MILEAGE, WE NOTICED THE HOOD VIBRATE AT 65MPH OR OVER ON FREEWAY, I BROUGHT IT TO MY NEAREST FORD DEALER, "FORD SERRAMONTE" ON 05/16/16 THE SERVICE MANAGER NAME HENRY SAID THEY ARE AWARE OF IT BUT COULDN'T DO ANYTHING & THEY ARE WAITING FOR FORD TO FIND THE SOLUTION TO FIX IT, BUT THEY DIDN'T EVEN CHECK THE HOOD. I CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER CARE TEAM ON 05/18/16 & THEY OPEN A CASE, CASE NUMBER: CAS-9514452-P1Y5C2 TARA MELVIN COSTUMER CARE MANGER HANDLING THE CASE. WE ARE PROSTRATED BECAUSE IT'S BRAND NEW CAR & ALREADY HAS A LOT OF PROBLEMS, IT WAS DISTRACTIVE DRIVING THE VEHICLE SO I'M SCARED SPECIALLY I'M ALWAYS WITH MY 1YR & 4YRS OLD SON, THEY JUST TOLD ME TO WAIT & IT'S BEEN MORE THAN A MONTH NOW & STILL HAVEN'T FIX THE PROBLEM. WE BOUGHT THIS SUV THINKING IT'S A RELIABLE & SAFETY CAR FOR OUR FAMILY BUT THERE'S TO MUCH ISSUES, -BATTERY DIED, I CALLED THE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE, THE DEALER SAID IT MIGHT BE THE BACK UP CAMERA THAT CONSUMING THE POWER FROM THE BATTERY WHEN THE VEHICLE IS NOT RUNNING, NOW THE CAMERA IS BACKORDER ACCORDING TO THE DEALER. WE'RE SCARED IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN IF WE'RE ON A TRIP. -LOW FUEL ECONOMY, I'M ONLY GETTING 12.6 AVG MPG. EPA COMBINED 18MPG, 16 CITY & 22 HIGHWAY I BEEN DOING A RESEARCH REGARDING ABOUT THE HOOD VIBRATION PROBLEM & FINDING THIS PROBLEM IS BEEN GOING AROUND SINCE 2013 & THERE'S A LOT OF VEHICLE OWNER THAT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, MY WIFE BROTHER IN-LAW HAS THE SAME PROBLEM VIBRATING HOOD 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED. I ATTACHED SOME OF THE LINK REGARDING THE SAME ISSUE. LINK FORUM: HTTP://WWW.EXPLORERFORUM.COM/FORUMS/INDEX.PHP?THREADS/MY-EXPLORER-HOOD-VIBRATES-AND-HUMMING-NOISES.385592/ HTTP://WWW.EXPLORERFORUM.COM/FORUMS/INDEX.PHP?THREADS/ENGINE-NOISE-HOOD-VIBRATES.444789/#POST-3532126 THANKS!
NHTSA ODI #10873653
3,960 miles · Jun 7, 2016
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Fuel/propulsion System
THE VEHICLE WENT INTO LIMP MODE RPM AND SPEED WHERE REDUCED TO 1000 RPM (MAX) AND 5-10 MPH WHILE RESPONDING TO A POLICE MATTER AS THE VEHICLE IS THE POLICE MODEL AND PURCHASED AS A POLICE CAR. UPON RESEARCH, THE ELECTRIC THROTTLE BODY HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AND HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED. THIS IS A POLICE VEHICLE A…
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THE VEHICLE WENT INTO LIMP MODE RPM AND SPEED WHERE REDUCED TO 1000 RPM (MAX) AND 5-10 MPH WHILE RESPONDING TO A POLICE MATTER AS THE VEHICLE IS THE POLICE MODEL AND PURCHASED AS A POLICE CAR. UPON RESEARCH, THE ELECTRIC THROTTLE BODY HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AND HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED. THIS IS A POLICE VEHICLE AND NOT RELIABLE AT ALL. THE VEHICLE HAS 3960 MILES ON IT AND DEPT IS BEING TOLD IT WILL BE 2-3 MONTHS BEFORE BACK IN SERVICE. RESEARCH DONE ON INTER NET FINDS THIS HAS BEEN AN ON GOING ISSUE WITH FORD FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AND BEING OVER LOOKED BY THE REGULATING AGENCIES.
NHTSA ODI #10872958
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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