NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
530 reportsClear category filter64,000 miles · Jun 22, 2020
Electrical SystemElectronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
SATURDAY JUNE 20TH 2020 THE HILL ASSIST MESSAGE CAME ON AS DID THE ABS AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS CAME ON. THERE IS NO POWER STEERING AND BOTH AXLES ARE MAKING A CLICKING NOISE. I HAVE LEARNED THAT THIS IS THE RACK AND PINION ELECTRONIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. EPAS UNIT HAS FAILED. LUCKILY IT WAS IN MY CUL DE SAC TURNING AROUND AN…
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SATURDAY JUNE 20TH 2020 THE HILL ASSIST MESSAGE CAME ON AS DID THE ABS AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS CAME ON. THERE IS NO POWER STEERING AND BOTH AXLES ARE MAKING A CLICKING NOISE. I HAVE LEARNED THAT THIS IS THE RACK AND PINION ELECTRONIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM. EPAS UNIT HAS FAILED. LUCKILY IT WAS IN MY CUL DE SAC TURNING AROUND AND NOT ON THE FREEWAY. MY WIFE PREDOMINANTLY DRIVES THIS VEHICLE. THE STEERING IS VERY DIFFICULT TO MOVE. THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 64,000 MILES ON IT. IS THIS A PRIVATE RECALL? I HAVE SPOKEN WITH A COUPLE OF OTHER EXPLORER OWNERS THAT FORD "TOOK CARE OF IT" FOR THEM. I HAVE ORDERED THE PART, BUT IT WILL NOT BE THERE FOR A WEEK. THIS CAR IS WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND IS NORMALLY DRIVEN ON CITY STREETS AND OCCASIONALLY ON THE HIGHWAY. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11330228
61,000 miles · Jun 22, 2020
Steering
6/21/20 - STOPPED FOR GAS AFTER DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 150 MILES ON THE INTERSTATE. CRANKED CAR AND STEERING WOULD NOT WORK. DASH NOTICES: STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED; SERVICE ADVANCETRAC; HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE; TRACTION LIGHT SHOWING OFF. DROVE CAR HOME WITH NO POWER STEERING. CALLED SELLING DEALERSHIP AND…
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6/21/20 - STOPPED FOR GAS AFTER DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 150 MILES ON THE INTERSTATE. CRANKED CAR AND STEERING WOULD NOT WORK. DASH NOTICES: STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED; SERVICE ADVANCETRAC; HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE; TRACTION LIGHT SHOWING OFF. DROVE CAR HOME WITH NO POWER STEERING. CALLED SELLING DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD PROBABLY COST AROUND $2000 TO REPAIR. SEARCHED ON LINE AND FOUND HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS BUT NO RECALL FROM FORD. PURCHASED NEW AND NOW HAS ONLY 61K MILES. RIDICULOUS! *TR
NHTSA ODI #11330066
72,500 miles · Jun 15, 2020
SteeringSuspension
I STARTED HEARING A KNOCKING IN THE FRONT END AND THE STEERING WAS VERY LOOSE, WHEN I TURNED RIGHT AT FIRST AND ON OCCASION TO THE LEFT MECHANIC SAID IF I HAD GONE MUCH FURTHER IT WOULD HAVE BROKEN ALL THE WAY AND I WOULD HAVE LOST ALL CONTROL OF THE SUV. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11328818
Mileage unknown · Jun 13, 2020
Steering
I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE MY FORD EXPERIENCE WITH MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION THAT WAS BOUGHT FROM HIGLEY FORD. AT 64,000 MILES... YES 4,000 OVER MY WARRANTY MY COMPUTER MODULE FRIED AND I HAD TO REPLACE THAT... $1500 OUT OF MY POCKET... THEN LAST SUMMER MY AC QUIT WORKING FOLLOWED BY MY DRIVERS SIDE SEAT HEATER AND MIRRO…
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I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE MY FORD EXPERIENCE WITH MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION THAT WAS BOUGHT FROM HIGLEY FORD. AT 64,000 MILES... YES 4,000 OVER MY WARRANTY MY COMPUTER MODULE FRIED AND I HAD TO REPLACE THAT... $1500 OUT OF MY POCKET... THEN LAST SUMMER MY AC QUIT WORKING FOLLOWED BY MY DRIVERS SIDE SEAT HEATER AND MIRROR ON MY VISOR... THEN HERE RECENTLY I COULD SMELL SOMETHING LIKE BURNT RUBBER AND FOUND OUT SOME SEAL POPPED OFF SO OIL WAS LEAKING.... WHICH IS IN A SPOT THAT YOU CAN'T GET TO UNLESS YOU TAKE THINGS APART...THEN NOW JUST FOUND OUT MY RACK AND PINION WENT OUT... THE STEERING (PART ALONE COSTS $1500)!!! I WAS TOLD I SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY AND THAT WAS ALL I GOT. REALLY!!!!!!! ESPECIALLY THE RACK AND PINION! HOW THE HELL DOES THAT GO OUT...I'M A NIGHT NURSE THAT DRIVES TO WORK AND BACK AND THAT'S ABOUT ALL! I'VE NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT, IN THE DITCH AND I DON'T TEAR AROUND IN MY CAR. I CAN UNDERSTAND MAYBE A COMPUTER THING HAPPENING BECAUSE WELL... COMPUTERS ARE COMPUTERS... BUT ALL OF THOSE THINGS GOING WRONG WITH 1 VEHICLE! AND IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE A NICE VEHICLE!!! LET ME JUST SAY... I FEEL VERY SCREWED. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11328672
45,795 miles · Jun 10, 2020
Steering
I WAS DRIVING MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER ON MY LAST LEFT TURN TO MY HOUSE THE VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP I WASN'T ABLE TO STEER MY VEHICLE I HAD TO PUSH THE SUV BACK TO THE HOUSE.THERE WAS 3 LIGHTS CAME ON COME ON THE DASH BOARD WITH THESE MESSAGES.. 1 HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE..(I DON'T THINK THAT ITS EQUI…
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I WAS DRIVING MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER ON MY LAST LEFT TURN TO MY HOUSE THE VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP I WASN'T ABLE TO STEER MY VEHICLE I HAD TO PUSH THE SUV BACK TO THE HOUSE.THERE WAS 3 LIGHTS CAME ON COME ON THE DASH BOARD WITH THESE MESSAGES.. 1 HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE..(I DON'T THINK THAT ITS EQUIPPED WITH THIS FUTURE) PRESS THE OK BOTTOM.SECOND LIGHT.. SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK THIRD LIGHT..STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED.CANT DRIVE THE VEHICLE ANY MORE. NOW THERE ARE 203 COMPLAINS JUST ON STEERING MOST ARE ALL ABOUT STEERING WHEEL LOCKING UP.THIS IS SOMETHING WAY SERIOUS MOST OF THIS SUV'S ARE THE WIFE CAR ALWAYS PACK WITH CHILDREN. THE NHTSA AND FORD SHOULD REALLY LOOK N TO THIS JUST BEFORE ONE OF OUR LOVE ONES IS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 75 MPH AND IT LOCKS ON THEM IT WOULD BE A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT.NOW IF THE NHTSA AND FORD KNOWS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM THEY SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST AND OR DAMAGE THAT MY OCCUR.IF THIS WAS SOMETHING SMALL AND CHEAP TO FIX THE OWNERS OF THIS SUV WOULD PROBABLY FIX IT BUT WE ARE TALKING ABOUT $2300-$3000 DOLLARS. WE ARE TALKING ABOUT 4 YEAR OLD SUV WITH THIS KIND OF A PROBLEM ITS A $18000 SUV.. ITS IS A PROBLEM THAT FORD WITH NO HESITATION SHOULD BE FIXING....PEOPLE PLEASE UPLOAD YOUR PROBLEMS LET THEM KNOW WE ARE THE CONSUMER THEY ARE WHO THEY ARE BECAUSE WE BUY FROM THEM THEY SHOULD BE MORE RESPONSIBLE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11328078
60,000 miles · Jun 9, 2020
Steering
THE 2016 EXPLORER EXPERIENCED A CLUCKING SOUND AND THE STEERING WOULD HITCH WHILE TURNING AT APPROX 50K MILES. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER BUT DEALER COULD NOT RECREATE. AT 60K MILES THERE WAS A CONSTANT CLUNKING AND STEERING STICKING WHILE TURNING THE WHEEL. VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO DEALER FOR REVIEW, DEALER CONFIRMED THE RACK A…
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THE 2016 EXPLORER EXPERIENCED A CLUCKING SOUND AND THE STEERING WOULD HITCH WHILE TURNING AT APPROX 50K MILES. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER BUT DEALER COULD NOT RECREATE. AT 60K MILES THERE WAS A CONSTANT CLUNKING AND STEERING STICKING WHILE TURNING THE WHEEL. VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO DEALER FOR REVIEW, DEALER CONFIRMED THE RACK AND PINION WAS FAILING AND WAS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. DEALER ALSO CONFIRMED THEY HAVE TO REPLACE MANY RACK AND PINIONS FOR EXPLORERS AND IT IS A PROBLEM BUT HEY CAN ONLY DO WHAT FORD INSTRUCTS. AFTER REVIEW ON THE NHTSA.GOV SITE, THERE ARE OVER 200 COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE WITH THE RACK AND PINION SYSTEM THAT OCCURS FROM 30K TO 60K MILES. THIS IS AN ISSUE THAT IS NOT BEING DEALT WITH BY THE MANUFACTURER AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED SINCE MOST OF THESE VEHICLES ARE NOW HITTING THIS MILEAGE RANGE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11327996
81,000 miles · Jun 8, 2020
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FAILED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AND ATTEMPTING TO STEER THE VEHICLE IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MITCHELL SELIG FORD (801 BLOOMFIELD AVE, WINDSOR, CT 06095, (860)688-3651), WHERE THE POWER ST…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FAILED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AND ATTEMPTING TO STEER THE VEHICLE IN EITHER DIRECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MITCHELL SELIG FORD (801 BLOOMFIELD AVE, WINDSOR, CT 06095, (860)688-3651), WHERE THE POWER STEERING RACK WAS REPLACED AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE FOR $2,200. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 81,000.*DT*JB
NHTSA ODI #11327707
60,000 miles · Jun 5, 2020
Steering
AT ABOUT 60,000 THE STEERING STARTED CATCHING. AT ANY SPEED THIS HAPPENED. IT WOULD FEEL LIKE THE TIRES WERE IN A RUT, THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN IT WOULD BREAK FREE, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY SWERVE OVER ABOUT A FOOT. IT HAS GONE ON TO A GRINDING NOISE. VERY UNNERVING TO DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEED! FORD TELLS ME THE STEERING RACK IS…
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AT ABOUT 60,000 THE STEERING STARTED CATCHING. AT ANY SPEED THIS HAPPENED. IT WOULD FEEL LIKE THE TIRES WERE IN A RUT, THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN IT WOULD BREAK FREE, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY SWERVE OVER ABOUT A FOOT. IT HAS GONE ON TO A GRINDING NOISE. VERY UNNERVING TO DRIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEED! FORD TELLS ME THE STEERING RACK IS BAD, AND SINCE IT'S OUT OF WARRANTY, THEY WILL NOT COVER REPAIRS. I'VE OWNED QUITE A FEW NON-FORD VEHICLES WITH OVER 150,000 MILES AND NEVER HAD A STEERING ISSUE WITH THEM. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11327362
54,000 miles · Jun 2, 2020
Steering
STEERING BECOMES STUCK WHILE MAKING A RIGHT OR LEFT TURN. THIS HAPPENED ON A STOP LIGHT WHILE TURNING. IT ALSO HAS A SLIDING/GRINDING FEEL WHEN TURNING THE WHEEL WHILE IN IDLE. ISSUE SEEMS TO BE A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM WITH FORD VEHICLES THAT HAVE THE ELECTRONIC STEERING WHEEL SYSTEM. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11327033
85,000 miles · May 28, 2020
Steering
I WENT TO PULL OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY AND MY VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP AND I WAS UNABLE TO STEER MY VEHICLE. I MANAGED TO AT LEAST BACK IT STRAIGHT BACK INTO MY DRIVEWAY TO BE OUT OF THE ROAD, AND CALLED THE CLOSEST FORD DEALERSHIP TO ME. I HAD 3 LIGHTS COME ON MY DASH WITH THESE MESSAGES; HILLSTART ASSIST NOT AV…
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I WENT TO PULL OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY AND MY VEHICLE'S POWER STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP AND I WAS UNABLE TO STEER MY VEHICLE. I MANAGED TO AT LEAST BACK IT STRAIGHT BACK INTO MY DRIVEWAY TO BE OUT OF THE ROAD, AND CALLED THE CLOSEST FORD DEALERSHIP TO ME. I HAD 3 LIGHTS COME ON MY DASH WITH THESE MESSAGES; HILLSTART ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE, SERVICE ADVANCETRAC, AND STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. MY VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP, AND THE ENTIRE POWER STEERING HAS TO BE REPLACED, WHICH THE REPAIR COSTS $2300 TO FIX. IF I WOULD HAVE BEEN MOVING AT A FASTER SPEED THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A MUCH WORSE STORY, BECAUSE WHEN THE STEERING LOCKED UP YOU COULD NOT TURN THE STEERING WHEEL AT ALL. I HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT WITH FORD DIRECTLY, AND THEY HAVE SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO, BUT THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND A LOT OF OTHERS HAVE HAD THE EXACT SAME ISSUE WITH THEIR VEHICLE. BUT YET THEY REFUSE TO ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS. *TR
NHTSA ODI #11326299
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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