NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
530 reportsClear category filter86,000 miles · Sep 16, 2019
Steering
2016 FORD EXPLORER XLT, 86000 MILES. STEERING STICKING WHILE TURNING LEFT/RIGHT WHILE TRAVELING AT ALL SPEEDS. THERE IS ALSO A POPPING NOISE WHEN TURNING RIGHT AT LOW SPEEDS. AFTER INVESTIGATION I HAVE FOUND THE IS A RACK & PINION PROBLEM THAT FORD REFUSES TO RECALL. MANY INSTANCES OF STEERING WHEELS LOCKING WHILE DRIVING WH…
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2016 FORD EXPLORER XLT, 86000 MILES. STEERING STICKING WHILE TURNING LEFT/RIGHT WHILE TRAVELING AT ALL SPEEDS. THERE IS ALSO A POPPING NOISE WHEN TURNING RIGHT AT LOW SPEEDS. AFTER INVESTIGATION I HAVE FOUND THE IS A RACK & PINION PROBLEM THAT FORD REFUSES TO RECALL. MANY INSTANCES OF STEERING WHEELS LOCKING WHILE DRIVING WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY BE FATAL. REPAIR COSTS FOR REPLACEMENT ARE $2000-$3000. THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN ON A 3 YEAR OLD VEHICLE, AND DEFINITELY NOT TO AMOUNT OF VEHICLES THAT ARE SHOWING THE SAME ISSUE. CONSUMER SAFETY IS DEFINITELY NOT BEING TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION FOR THIS DEFECT. IT APPEARS MONEY IS THE DRIVING FORCE FOR NOT RECALLING THIS ISSUE BY FORD.
NHTSA ODI #11255899
42,000 miles · Sep 10, 2019
Steering
WHILE DRIVING MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER, THE POWER STEERING BECAME LOOSE AND MAKING A GRINDING NOISE IN THE FRONT END. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A STEERING RACK ISSUE. NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. FORD MOTOR CO WILL NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIR. THIS IS CLEARLY A SAFETY ISSUE. MORE IMPORTANTLY, …
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WHILE DRIVING MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER, THE POWER STEERING BECAME LOOSE AND MAKING A GRINDING NOISE IN THE FRONT END. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A STEERING RACK ISSUE. NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. FORD MOTOR CO WILL NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIR. THIS IS CLEARLY A SAFETY ISSUE. MORE IMPORTANTLY, WHILE MY VEHICLE WAS BEING DIAGNOSED, TWO ADDITIONAL FORD EXPLORERS WERE BROUGHT TO THE SAME DEALERSHIP FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. FORD NEEDS TO RECALL THESE VEHICLES AND MAKE THESE SAFETY REPAIRS. PRIOR TO BRINGING THE VEHICLE TO FORD FOR DIAGNOSTICS I TOOK A VIDEO OF THE DAMAGE AND THE GRINDING SOUNDS IN THE FRONT END.
NHTSA ODI #11254414
53,110 miles · Sep 10, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, A BUZZING NOISE OCCURRED AND THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT WARNING INDICATOR DISPLAYED "SERVICE NOW". IN ADDITION, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE CONTACT PRESS THE OK BUTTON AND CONTINUE TO DRIVE WITHOUT POWER STEERING TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT TH…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, A BUZZING NOISE OCCURRED AND THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT WARNING INDICATOR DISPLAYED "SERVICE NOW". IN ADDITION, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE CONTACT PRESS THE OK BUTTON AND CONTINUE TO DRIVE WITHOUT POWER STEERING TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED ON THREE SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT CALLED GROVE CITY FORD (1 TAYLOR PLAZA, GROVE CITY, PA 16127, (724) 748-4790) AND BUTLER COUNTY FORD (400 S MAIN ST, BUTLER, PA 16001, (724) 287-2766) AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: CRS242007579. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,110.
NHTSA ODI #11254413
64,339 miles · Sep 6, 2019
Steering
MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN A BUNCH OF ERRORS STARTED POPPING UP INCLUDING STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK, SERVICE HILL DESCENT, ETC. THE STEERING ON MY CAR IMMEDIATELY LOCKED UP AND HE COULD BARELY GET THE CAR TURNED OFF THE ROAD BEFORE IT SHUT DOWN. IT ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AS WE WERE NEARLY REA…
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MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN A BUNCH OF ERRORS STARTED POPPING UP INCLUDING STEERING ASSIST FAULT, SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK, SERVICE HILL DESCENT, ETC. THE STEERING ON MY CAR IMMEDIATELY LOCKED UP AND HE COULD BARELY GET THE CAR TURNED OFF THE ROAD BEFORE IT SHUT DOWN. IT ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AS WE WERE NEARLY REAR-ENDED. I TRAVEL THE INTERSTATE DAILY AND HAD THIS HAPPENED ON THE INTERSTATE INSTEAD OF A CITY STREET IT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A DEADLY ACCIDENT. I USE THIS CAR TO TRANSPORT MY INFANT AROUND AND IT IS NOT SAFE AT ALL. AN ERROR LIKE THIS COULD KILL MY WHOLE FAMILY.
NHTSA ODI #11253761
78,000 miles · Sep 5, 2019
Steering
MY STEERING STARTING MAKING NOISE AND HESITATING WHEN TURNING DURING CITY TYPE DRIVING. THE NEXT DAY DRIVING BECAME MORE DIFFICULT STEERING ESPECIALLY AT HIGHER SPEEDS ON THE HIGHWAY. I WAS UNABLE TO KEEP THE VEHICLE STRAIGHT CONTINUALLY GOING BACK AND FORTH IN MY LANE. THE FOLLOWING DAY THE WHEEL WOULD NOT TURN AT ALL AND ALL S…
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MY STEERING STARTING MAKING NOISE AND HESITATING WHEN TURNING DURING CITY TYPE DRIVING. THE NEXT DAY DRIVING BECAME MORE DIFFICULT STEERING ESPECIALLY AT HIGHER SPEEDS ON THE HIGHWAY. I WAS UNABLE TO KEEP THE VEHICLE STRAIGHT CONTINUALLY GOING BACK AND FORTH IN MY LANE. THE FOLLOWING DAY THE WHEEL WOULD NOT TURN AT ALL AND ALL SORTS OF ERROR DISPLAY MESSAGES STARTED. SAYING STEERING FAILURE, STOP AS SOON POSSIBLE, TRACTION CONTROL FAILURE AND MORE. MY EXPLORER IS ONLY 3YEARS OLD WITH LESS THAN 80,000 MILES. IF THIS FAILURE HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING IT COULD HAVE CAUSED SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. FORD IS UNWILLING TO DO ANYTHING TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. ONLY THING I COULD GET THEM TO TELL ME IS THAT IT WAS BEING LOOKED IN TO. ONLINE MESSAGE BOARDS SHOW THIS IS A VERY COMMON IN THE 2016 EXPLORERS AND EVEN REOCCURS SOMETIMES AFTER BEING 'FIXED'. SEEMS FORD DOESN'T HAVE A HANDLE ON THE ISSUE AND THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED ASAP. SEARCHING ONLINE ALSO SHOWS SEVERAL LAWSUITS IN REGARDS TO THIS ISSUE. I'M UNSURE WHY THIS IS NOT BEING ADDRESSED WHEN IT'S CLEARLY A MAJOR, MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN.
NHTSA ODI #11253505
49,000 miles · Sep 4, 2019
Steering
MY VEHICLE HAS 48,950 MILES AND WAS TOLD THAT THE LOUD CLUNKING SOUND MY VEHICLE MAKES WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION, IS DUE TO THE STEERING GEAR AND HARDWARE THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE SEEN MANY ONLINE COMPLAINTS ABOUT STEERING ISSUE WITH THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR. IT IS CONCERNING TO ME THAT THIS…
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MY VEHICLE HAS 48,950 MILES AND WAS TOLD THAT THE LOUD CLUNKING SOUND MY VEHICLE MAKES WHILE TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION, IS DUE TO THE STEERING GEAR AND HARDWARE THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE SEEN MANY ONLINE COMPLAINTS ABOUT STEERING ISSUE WITH THIS MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR. IT IS CONCERNING TO ME THAT THIS MAY AFFECT THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. SUCH AN EXPENSIVE VEHICLE AND TO BE TOLD THAT THIS REPAIR WILL COST OVER $2000 IS UNACCEPTABLE. THIS IS POOR MANUFACTURING AND NOT A NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR ITEM, AND CERTAINLY NOT AT 49,000 MILES.
NHTSA ODI #11253195
32,000 miles · Sep 3, 2019
Steering
I WAS PARKED, WHEN A LOUD SOUND CAME FROM THE MOTOR AREA OF MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK AND THE STEERING FAILURE LIGHT CAME ON ABOUT. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE RACK AND PINION IS LEAKING, EVAN THAT ONLY HAD 32, 000 MILES IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY BECAUSE EXPIRES A FEW MONTHS AGO, AN…
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I WAS PARKED, WHEN A LOUD SOUND CAME FROM THE MOTOR AREA OF MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE SERVICE ADVANCE TRACK AND THE STEERING FAILURE LIGHT CAME ON ABOUT. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE RACK AND PINION IS LEAKING, EVAN THAT ONLY HAD 32, 000 MILES IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY BECAUSE EXPIRES A FEW MONTHS AGO, AND IS GOING TO COST $2,230.00 FOR THE PARTS AND LABOR. THE DAY BEFORE I WAS WITH ALL MY FAMILY HAVING FUN AND DRIVING AROUND, I'M THINKING IF THIS PART BREAKS WHILE WE WAS AT INTERSTATE 70, THAT THE SPEED LIMITS IS 70MPH, AND YOU LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, IT WILL BE A REALLY BAD OR FATAL ACCIDENT. THERE BEING A LOT OF REPORTS WITH THIS ISSUE. WHAT FORD AND THE NHTSA ARE WAITING TO TAKE ACCION, THAT MORE INCIDENT OCURRED OR PEOPLE DIED TO DO A RECALL. LIKE THEY ARE DOING WITH THE AIR BAGS AFTER A MANY PEOPLE DIED. PLEASE TAKE ACTION TODAY, DON'T WAIT UNTIL IS TO LATE.
NHTSA ODI #11252846
38,600 miles · Sep 1, 2019
Steering
WE EXPERIENCED POPPING NOISES ON THE FRONT END WHILE TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS, PULLING IN AND OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND PARKING SPOTS. DUE TO HAVING TO REPLACE WORN TIRES AT 32K, WE TOOK TO LOCAL QUICK LANE AT OUR ST JOSEPH FORD DEALERSHIP. WE REPORTED THE POPPING NOISES AT THIS TIME AND REQUESTED IT BE LOOKED AT WHILE THEY REPLACED T…
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WE EXPERIENCED POPPING NOISES ON THE FRONT END WHILE TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS, PULLING IN AND OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND PARKING SPOTS. DUE TO HAVING TO REPLACE WORN TIRES AT 32K, WE TOOK TO LOCAL QUICK LANE AT OUR ST JOSEPH FORD DEALERSHIP. WE REPORTED THE POPPING NOISES AT THIS TIME AND REQUESTED IT BE LOOKED AT WHILE THEY REPLACED TIRES. THERE WERE NO FINDS AT THIS TIME REGARDING WHAT WAS MAKING THE NOISES. WE CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE OCCASIONAL POPPING NOISES WHILE TURNING AT INTERSECTIONS, PULLING IN/OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND PARKING SPOTS. ON 8/8/19, WE TOOK TO SAME DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT TO PERFORM FSA19S17, A RECALL WHERE THE REAR SUSPENSION TOE LINK WAS REPLACED AT 38205MI. A 4-WHEEL ALIGNMENT WAS ALSO DONE AT THIS TIME. ON 8/23/19, WE NOTICED THE POPPING HAD GOTTEN WORSE. ON 8/26/19, THE STEERING BRIEFLY SEIZED ROUNDING A CORNER AT APPROXIMATELY 30-35MPH. IT SCARED MY WIFE, AS SHE FELT A BRIEF LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. ON 8/28/19 WE DROPPED IT OFF AT THE SAME DEALERSHIP AND REPORTED THAT POPPING WAS WORSE AND THE STEERING HAD SEIZED. AFTER THE TEST DRIVES AND ASSESSMENT THEY CALLED TO REPORT THAT THE STEERING RACK WAS FAILING AND WOULD NEED REPLACED. THEY QUOTED $2900.00 FOR REPAIRS. WE HAVE NOT AGREED TO PAY FOR THIS REPAIR. WE HAVE SINCE DISCOVERED THIS IS A WELL KNOWN ISSUE BY FORD AND OTHER VEHICLE OWNERS OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL. WE ARE REPORTING IN HOPES THAT FORD WILL RECALL TO RECTIFY THIS SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI #11252686
39,000 miles · Aug 31, 2019
Steering
MY STEERING PROBLEM STARTED WHILE DRIVING, WHICH BEGAN WITH A POPPING NOISE WHEN BACKING UP AND THEN A GRINDING NOISE WHILE TURNING LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN DRIVING FORWARD. THE PROBLEM QUICKLY PROGRESSED AND THE VEHICLE BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN I WAS DRIVING IN TRAFFIC AT AROUND 30 MPH. I HAD TO MUSCLE THE STEERIN…
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MY STEERING PROBLEM STARTED WHILE DRIVING, WHICH BEGAN WITH A POPPING NOISE WHEN BACKING UP AND THEN A GRINDING NOISE WHILE TURNING LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN DRIVING FORWARD. THE PROBLEM QUICKLY PROGRESSED AND THE VEHICLE BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT WHEN I WAS DRIVING IN TRAFFIC AT AROUND 30 MPH. I HAD TO MUSCLE THE STEERING WHEEL TO TURN THE VEHICLE AND MANAGED TO DRIVE TO THE NEAREST GARAGE. THIS SAME GARAGE WAS VERY AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM WITH THE FORD EXPLORER AND REPAIRED MY VEHICLE AT A COST OF $2417.74. FROM THE TIME THE STEERING PROBLEM BEGAN TO THE TIME THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE DRIVEN WAS LESS THAN FOUR HOURS. THIS PROBLEM IS VERY DANGEROUS AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL FOR IT ASAP!!.
NHTSA ODI #11252588
65,000 miles · Aug 29, 2019
Steering
AT APPROX 65K MILES I NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMING STIFF AND A NOISE OF PLASTIC RUBBING IN THE STEERING COLUMN. TODAY AT 67K MILES I TOOK VEHICLE INTO FORD DEALER FOR ANOTHER RECALL TO BE TOLD THE RACK IS BAD. SEEING AS THIS IS SUCH AN ABUNDANT ISSUE WITH THESE VEHICLES, I'M TRYING TO UNDERSTAND HOW THIS ISN'T A SAFETY RE…
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AT APPROX 65K MILES I NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMING STIFF AND A NOISE OF PLASTIC RUBBING IN THE STEERING COLUMN. TODAY AT 67K MILES I TOOK VEHICLE INTO FORD DEALER FOR ANOTHER RECALL TO BE TOLD THE RACK IS BAD. SEEING AS THIS IS SUCH AN ABUNDANT ISSUE WITH THESE VEHICLES, I'M TRYING TO UNDERSTAND HOW THIS ISN'T A SAFETY RECALL. IF THIS PART FAILS WHILE DRIVING IT COULD LEAD TO A CATASTROPHIC CRASH. HONESTLY I'M AFRAID TO HAVE THE DEALER REPLACE IT WITH AN IDENTICAL PART SINCE THERE IS OBVIOUSLY AN ISSUE WITH THE PART IS IT IS CURRENTLY BEING PRODUCED.
NHTSA ODI #11252233
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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