IllustrationSECOND STEERING FAILURE INCIDENT. REF CPMPLAINT 11111323 INCHING UP TO STOP SIGN WHEN WHEEL FROZE. DASH ERROR AS FOLLOWS: "STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW(THIS WAS IN RED) "SERVICE ADVANCE TRAK" (THIS WAS IN YELLOW) PUT CAR IN PARK.TURNED ENGINE OFF AND RESTARTED THEN REGAINED POWER STEERING.
2016 Ford Explorer
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Explorer years
Owner complaints for the 2016 Ford Explorer are substantially higher than the model-year median of 609.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Explorer years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
4560–25K
31325–50K
26850–75K
20575–100K
211100–150K
49150K+
1,502 reports with mileage · 947 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Structure. Review the 584 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Steering. Review the 530 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 381 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
39 crash reports14 fire reports43 injury reports
Steering complaints
530 reportsMY 17 YEAR OLD SON WAS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL "FROZE" I WOULD DESCRIBE IT AS THE OLD MANUAL STEERING SYSTEMS. HE WAS DRIVING ON A STATE ROUTE GOING STRAIGHT AHEAD INTO A CURVE WHEN IT HAPPENED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WAS A LARGE GRAVEL LOT AHEAD FOR HIM TO STEER STRAIGHT INTO. I DON,T BUY FORDS' CLAIM THAT TH…
Read full complaint
MY 17 YEAR OLD SON WAS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL "FROZE" I WOULD DESCRIBE IT AS THE OLD MANUAL STEERING SYSTEMS. HE WAS DRIVING ON A STATE ROUTE GOING STRAIGHT AHEAD INTO A CURVE WHEN IT HAPPENED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WAS A LARGE GRAVEL LOT AHEAD FOR HIM TO STEER STRAIGHT INTO. I DON,T BUY FORDS' CLAIM THAT THE STEERING FUNCTIONS AND ONLY DIFFICULT. TELL THAT TO A FRIGHTENED YOUNG DRIVER OR AN ELDERLY PERSON. THE ERROR DISPLAYED BELOW IS WHAT WAS DISPLAYED ON DASH AND WHAT IS FOUND NUMEROUS TIMES FROM OTHER VEHICLE OWNERS. THE CONTINUED HISTORY OF THIS ISSUE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE! WHILE I HAVE NOT FOUND AN FATAL INCIDENT RELATED TO THE ISSUE, I DO NOT MY FAMILY TO BE THE FIRST. PLEASE REVIEW THIS OCCURRENCE NATIONALLY AND I IMPLORE YOU TO ISSUE A RECALL. I AM OLD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER THE PINTO FUEL TANK, THE FIRESTONE 50 TIRES AND OF COURSE THE AIR BAG FIASCO. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION. THANK YOU [XXX] 1. TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FAULT 2. SERVICE ADVANCE TRAK 3. HILL ASSIST ERROR INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
I TOOK MY TRUCK TO THE SHOP ON WEDNESDAY AND DROPPED IT OFF DUE TO NUMEROUS LIGHTS COMING ON WHEN DRIVING. THE LIGHT WOULD READ "STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW, SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC AND HILL START ASSIST NOT AVALABLE". I TOOK PICTURES OF THE LIGHTS WHEN THEY WOULD COME ON AND HAVE DOCUMENTATION OF THAT. WHEN THE LIGHTS COME ON, I …
Read full complaint
I TOOK MY TRUCK TO THE SHOP ON WEDNESDAY AND DROPPED IT OFF DUE TO NUMEROUS LIGHTS COMING ON WHEN DRIVING. THE LIGHT WOULD READ "STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW, SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC AND HILL START ASSIST NOT AVALABLE". I TOOK PICTURES OF THE LIGHTS WHEN THEY WOULD COME ON AND HAVE DOCUMENTATION OF THAT. WHEN THE LIGHTS COME ON, I ALSO LOSE POWER STEERING AND AM UNABLE TO DRIVE MY TRUCK. THIS HAS ALMOST CAUSED ME TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT! WALDORF FORD JUST CALLED ME TO TELL ME I NEED A NEW STEERING GEAR AND THAT MY EPAS SYSTEM HAS GONE BAD AND THIS IS GOING TO COST ME $2100.00 TO FIX. MY TRUCK IS ONLY 2 YEARS OLD, I HAVE MAINTAINED ALL SERVICE AS NEEDED SINCE OWNING, IT ONLY HAS 49,000 MILES ON IT AND THIS HAS HAPPENED. I HAVE LOOKED ONLINE AT THE FORUMS AND SEE THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH MANY EXPLORERS AND NOT JUST MINE. THESE VEHICLES NEED TO BE RECALLED BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED!!!!! THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND A VERY EXPENSIVE FIX THAT TO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING TO PAY FOR WHEN IT IS OCCURRING SO OFTEN. PLEASE, PLEASE CHECK INTO THIS AND PUT OUT A RECALL ON NOT ONLY THE 2016 FORD EXPLORER BUT THE OTHER FORDS WHO ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE AS MYSELF.
STEERING GEAR FAILED CAUSING THE CAR TO BE VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER AT LOW SPEEDS, ESPECIALLY WHEN TURNING RIGHT.
ORIGINALLY I HAD A LIGHT COMING ON WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD SAYING "STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW" IT WOULD COME ON AND GO OFF OR OCCASIONALLY I WOULD HAVE TO PULL OVER AND RESTART MY TRUCK TO RESET. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK I STARTED HAVING MULTIPLE LINES COME ON AT ONE TIME FLASHING AT ME WHILE DRIVING SAYING "SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC, …
Read full complaint
ORIGINALLY I HAD A LIGHT COMING ON WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD SAYING "STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW" IT WOULD COME ON AND GO OFF OR OCCASIONALLY I WOULD HAVE TO PULL OVER AND RESTART MY TRUCK TO RESET. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK I STARTED HAVING MULTIPLE LINES COME ON AT ONE TIME FLASHING AT ME WHILE DRIVING SAYING "SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC, HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE, SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC AND STEERING FAULT SERVICE NOW". WHEN THESE LIGHTS COME ON I LOSE ALL POWER STEERING IN MY VEHICLE AND I'M UNABLE TO STEER AT ALL. THIS HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES AND IT HAS BECOME EXTREMELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN WHILE DRIVING, BUT OTHER THAN THAT I SEE NO RHYME OR REASON OR OTHER FACTORS THAT ARE THE SAME WHEN THE LIGHTS HAVE CAME ON. I TOOK MY TRUCK TO MY MECHANIC TO LOOK AT AND HE FOUND ONLINE THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE MANY PEOPLE ARE BLOGGING ABOUT AND COMPLAINING ABOUT. HE HOOKED MY TRUCK UP TO THE COMPUTER BUT COULD NOT GET ANY TYPE OF ERROR CODE TO COME BACK AND SUGGESTED I FOLLOW UP WITH FORD TO HAVE THEM LOOK AT IT BUT ALSO SUGGESTED THAT I CONTACT SOMEONE TO SEE IF THIS HAS SOME TYPE OF RECALL BECAUSE IN HIS WORDS "THIS IS GOING TO KILL SOMEONE". I HAVE CHECKED BUT NO RECALLS HAVE BEEN MADE AS OF NOW BUT DID SEE THERE WAS A VERY SIMILAR PROBLEM IN THE 2011-2013 EXPLORERS AND A RECALL WAS MADE. I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT THIS WEEK FOR MY TRUCK TO GO TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP TO BE LOOKED AT BUT FEEL STRONGLY THAT THIS IS SOMETHING THAT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED NOW ON THE 2016 FORD EXPLORER. I HAVE 2 YOUNG DRIVERS THAT OCCASIONALLY DRIVE MY VEHICLE, IF ONE OF THEM WERE TO DRIVE IT WHEN THE STEERING WENT OUT, I DON'T WANT TO THINK WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED. THIS IS TO SERIOUS TO IGNORE AND I SEE TO MANY COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER PEOPLE ONLINE SO I KNOW THIS IS NOT SOMETHING THAT ONLY I AM GOING THROUGH. PLEASE RECALL THESE VEHICLES AND HAVE THIS CHECKED.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HALDEMAN FORD (2443 LEHIGH ST, ALLENTOWN, PA) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING RACK FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFI…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HALDEMAN FORD (2443 LEHIGH ST, ALLENTOWN, PA) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING RACK FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 31,910. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
2016 FORD EXPLORER STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE STEERING BECAME JERKY AND DIDN'T WANT TO STEER. THIS WAS AT SOMEWHERE AROUND 38000 MILES. I TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHEN I GOT HOME AND WAS TOLD IT NEEDED A RIGHT TIE ROD END. THE TIE ROD END WA…
Read full complaint
2016 FORD EXPLORER STARTED MAKING A NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT ABOUT 60 MPH AND THE STEERING BECAME JERKY AND DIDN'T WANT TO STEER. THIS WAS AT SOMEWHERE AROUND 38000 MILES. I TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHEN I GOT HOME AND WAS TOLD IT NEEDED A RIGHT TIE ROD END. THE TIE ROD END WAS REPLACED AT A COST OF $200+. THE FORD EXPLORER CONTINUED MAKING A NOISE AT A LOW SPEED AND WIFE STATED THAT THE STEERING WAS JERKY WHEN SHE DROVE IT. TOOK IT BACK TO FORD DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT A NUT HAD CAME OFF IN THE STEERING BOX AND THE STEERING RACK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CAR WAS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AS IT WAS SO AUTHORIZED THE REPAIR. THE REPAIR WAS DONE AT 40634 MILES. SO FAR THIS APPEARS TO HAVE FIXED THE PROBLEM.
MY 2016 LIMITED FORD EXPLORER WITH ABOUT 38000 MILES BEGAN MAKING A NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AND THE STEERING WAS JERKY AND WOULD HANG. TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHEN I RETURNED HOME AND THEY REPLACE THE RIGHT TIE ROD END AT A COST OF $200+. THE EXPLORER CONTINUED TO MAKE A NOIS…
Read full complaint
MY 2016 LIMITED FORD EXPLORER WITH ABOUT 38000 MILES BEGAN MAKING A NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AND THE STEERING WAS JERKY AND WOULD HANG. TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHEN I RETURNED HOME AND THEY REPLACE THE RIGHT TIE ROD END AT A COST OF $200+. THE EXPLORER CONTINUED TO MAKE A NOISE AT LOW SPEEDS. WIFE SAID THAT THE STEERING WAS JERKY WHEN SHE DROVE IT. TOOK IT BACK TO FORD DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT A NUT HAD COME OFF IN THE STEERING BOX AND IT NEEDED A COMPLETE STEERING RACK. DANGEROUS TO DRIVE AS IT WAS SO AUTHORIZED THE REPLACEMENT. COST THIS TIME WAS $1685.67. THE EXPLORER HAD 40634MILES ON IT WHEN THIS WAS DONE. GOT ON THE INTERNET AND FOUND THE STEERING IS A RATHER COMMON PROBLEM ON FORD EXPLORERS.
THE STEERING COLUMN WENT OUT AT 38,000 MILES. THE MOTOR IS DEAD AND ENTIRE THING NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO JPS FORD (224 GAP FARMS RD, ARCADIA, LA 71001, (318) 263-2084) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY NEEDED REPLACEMENT, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFA…
Read full complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO JPS FORD (224 GAP FARMS RD, ARCADIA, LA 71001, (318) 263-2084) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY NEEDED REPLACEMENT, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,000.
Official recalls
1426V448000 · Structure:body
Jul 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.
25V685000 · Equipment:electrical:engine Block Heater
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.
25V347000 · Structure:body
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.
24V031000 · Structure:body:roof And Pillars
Jan 19, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
21V537000 · Suspension:rear
Jul 15, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Exposure to road salt can cause the cross-axis ball joint to corrode and seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle, and replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall numbers 16V-245, 19V-435, and 20V-675. Certain vehicles previously repaired will need to return for the new remedy. An interim notification letter notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2022. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S32.
21V316000 · Structure:body
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.
20V675000 · Suspension:rear
Mar 12, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin that were previously repaired under a prior recall numbers 16V-245 or 19V-435. The outboard section of a rear suspension toe link may fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle attached to the rear suspension toe link and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S62.
20V692000 · Power Train:axle Assembly:axle Shaft
Nov 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive. The support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may fail.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8, 2020. A second letter will be mailed when parts become available in January 2021. The recall began February 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S63.
19V435000 · Suspension:rear
Jun 10, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S17.
17V767000 · Seats
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.
16V475000 · Seats:front Assembly:recliner
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.
16V183000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
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.
15V605000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:mounting
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.
15V464000 · Parking Brake
Jul 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015. The affected vehicles have a parking brake that may not fully engage when applied. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the operation of the parking brake system, and if necessary, replace the parking brake control assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 4, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C07.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
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