NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
530 reportsClear category filter10,900 miles · Sep 14, 2016
Electrical SystemSteering
THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO ME WHILE DRIVING MY 2016 EXPLORER LIMITED. MY CAR HAS EVERY OPTION AVAILABLE. A FEW MONTHS AGO AS I WAS TURNING ONTO THE HIGHWAY A "LANE KEEPING SYS MALFUNCTION" ALERT CAME ACROSS MY DISPLAY AND MY STEERING LOCKED IN PLACE. I COULD NOT TURN MY STEERING WHEEL AT ALL. I HAD A SKETCHY VEHICL…
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THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAPPENED TO ME WHILE DRIVING MY 2016 EXPLORER LIMITED. MY CAR HAS EVERY OPTION AVAILABLE. A FEW MONTHS AGO AS I WAS TURNING ONTO THE HIGHWAY A "LANE KEEPING SYS MALFUNCTION" ALERT CAME ACROSS MY DISPLAY AND MY STEERING LOCKED IN PLACE. I COULD NOT TURN MY STEERING WHEEL AT ALL. I HAD A SKETCHY VEHICLE FOR MY FIRST VEHICLE AND KNEW THAT I NEEDED TO PUT THE CAR IN PARK AND TURN IT OFF FOR A FEW SECONDS AND RESTART THE CAR. DOING THIS FREED MY STEERING WHEEL AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP RAN DIAGNOSTICS AND CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THE SENSITIVITY WAS SET TOO HIGH. FFW MONTHS LATER. 9/13/16 I AM DRIVING BACK AT ABOUT 65 MPH, FROM A DR. APT ON A BUSY ROAD AND THE CAR TELLS ME MY STEERING IS MALFUNCTIONING TO SERVICE MY VEHICLE. MY GAME PLAN WAS TO PULL OVER SAFELY AND RUN A VEHICLE HEALTH REPORT AND CALL THE DEALER. SECONDS LATER I GET THE SAME MESSAGE ALONG WITH LANE KEEPING MALFUNCTION & MY STEERING LOCKED. I HAD TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP ON THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY HWY WITH A CAR COMING AT MY REAR AND THROW IT IN PARK AND KILL MY ENGINE AND RESTART MY CAR FOR THE STEERING TO UNLOCK. I SPOKE WITH THE SERVICE DEPT. AFTER THEY RAN DIAGNOSTICS AND MY VEHICLE IS "SPITTING OUT CODES LIKE CRAZY" AND WAS TOLD IT MAY BE A MODULE IN MY COMPUTER THAT CONTROLS STEERING & LANE KEEPING SYSTEMS OR MY KEY FOB IS NOT BEING DETECTED BY MY COMPUTER AND IS NOT SENDING AN ALERT AND MY CAR THINKS IT IS BEING STOLEN. CRAZY. DEFINITELY NOT SAFE. THIS IS MY DAILY DRIVER. I HAVE 4 SMALL CHILDREN. I LIVE IN MY CAR. PLEASE RESEARCH THIS AND ISSUE A RECALL. THIS IS NOT SAFE AT ALL. THANKFULLY I WAS NOT ON AN INTERSTATE GOING 70+ MPH. ALSO MY CAR WAS PURCHASED DEC 2015 AND WAS A DEALER TRADE FROM A TX DEALER.
NHTSA ODI #10906364
6,100 miles · Aug 26, 2016
Power TrainSteeringVehicle Speed Control
WHILE DRIVING BELOW 30 MPH ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE AND FELT A JOLT,ENGINE CUT OFF,"WRENCH" LIGHT AND AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON (LAST ONE PROBABLY WHEN THE ENGINE SHUT OFF).HAD TO COAST TO THE SIDE,RE-STARTED ENGINE AND IT STARTED SHAKING,RPMS KEPT GOING UP AND DOWN BETWEEN 1-2000.TURNED OFF AND WAITED A FEW MINUTES.STARTED ENGINE AG…
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WHILE DRIVING BELOW 30 MPH ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE AND FELT A JOLT,ENGINE CUT OFF,"WRENCH" LIGHT AND AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON (LAST ONE PROBABLY WHEN THE ENGINE SHUT OFF).HAD TO COAST TO THE SIDE,RE-STARTED ENGINE AND IT STARTED SHAKING,RPMS KEPT GOING UP AND DOWN BETWEEN 1-2000.TURNED OFF AND WAITED A FEW MINUTES.STARTED ENGINE AGAIN AND IT WAS RUNNING NORMAL EXCEPT CHECK ENGINE WAS ON.WENT TO LOCAL FORD DEALER (WE WERE ON VACATION) WHO COULDN'T TAKE US IN FOR AT LEAST 6 HRS AND WANTED US TO PAY FOR DIAGNOSTIC (NEW CAR,JUST HAD FIRST OIL CHANGE).WENT TO AUTO ZONE AND THEY READ CODE P2112 -THROTTLE BODY FAILURE AND ARMED WITH THAT SCHEDULED SERVICE AT MY LOCAL DEALER.ON THE WAY BACK ISSUE REPEATED ITSELF TWO MORE TIMES.ALL ON LOWER SPEEDS (CITY DRIVING).CURRENT MILES 6200.
NHTSA ODI #10899006
Mileage unknown · Aug 10, 2016
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemSteering
WHILE DRIVING ON A BUSY HIGHWAY WITH MY THREE CHILDREN I LOST ALL POWER TO MY VEHICLE JUST BARELY MAKING IT OUT THE WAY OF A SENI TRUCK. THE EXPLORER WAS PURCHASED IN MARCH OF THIS YEAR BRAND NEW TO AVOID PROBLEMS LIKE THIS. DOES SOMEONE HAVE TO BE KILLED BEFORE A RECALL IS ISSUED?!?!?!?!!!
NHTSA ODI #10894953
10,350 miles · Aug 10, 2016
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemSteering
VEHICLE WAS PROCEEDING AND ALL POWER TO THROTTLE STOPPED. POWER STEERING WENT OUT. VEHICLE COASTED TO STOP IN TRAFFIC TURN LANE. FORD STATED THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH VEHICLES THROTTLE BODY
NHTSA ODI #10894908
Mileage unknown · Jul 17, 2016
EnginePower TrainService Brakes
HUSBAND WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE WAS ABOUT TO ACCELERATE TO GET UP A HILL ON A CITY STREET AND ENGINE SOUNDED LIKE TRANSMISSION OR OTHER MAJOR PART JUST "DROPPED". STEERING WHEEL FROZE, CAR IDLED VIOLENTLY, COULD NOT MOVE VEHICLE, STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS UNTIL EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS APPLIED.ACCELERATION WENT TO LITERALLY ZERO,SUV …
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HUSBAND WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE WAS ABOUT TO ACCELERATE TO GET UP A HILL ON A CITY STREET AND ENGINE SOUNDED LIKE TRANSMISSION OR OTHER MAJOR PART JUST "DROPPED". STEERING WHEEL FROZE, CAR IDLED VIOLENTLY, COULD NOT MOVE VEHICLE, STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS UNTIL EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS APPLIED.ACCELERATION WENT TO LITERALLY ZERO,SUV WOULD NOT MOVE. ORANGE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON, STATED TO SEE MANUAL.PLACED CAR IN PARK SHUT OFF ENGINE AND WAITED AND STARTED AT BACK UP AGAIN. SCARRY STUFF, 2 CHILDREN 2 AND YOUNGER IN VEHICLE. WON'T LET ME INPUT ON NEXT PAGE, APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MILES AN HOUR, SUV HAS 5,500 MILES ON IT
NHTSA ODI #10885312
6,000 miles · Jul 11, 2016
EngineSteeringVehicle Speed Control
I WAS DRIVING MY 2016 FORD EXPLORER ON A BUSY STREET WHEN THE ENGINE LIGHT AND THE ORANGE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR STALLED AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE.IT LOST ALL POWER. I AM TERRIFIED OF DRIVING IT NOW. IT WOULD NOT MOVE FASTER THAN 5 MILES PER HOUR. THE CAR HAS 6,000 MILES ON IT.
NHTSA ODI #10884138
5,720 miles · Jun 2, 2016
EngineSteering
I WAS DRIVING ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY HOME FROM WORK WITH NORMAL TRAFFIC. MY SPEED WAS APPROX 60-64 OR SO. WHILE IN LEFT LANE TRAVELING EAST --WITHOUT WARNING , MY ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. IT WAS SO HARD TO STEER MY CAR -- I NEEDED TO WEDGE MY FOOT NEAR WINDOW /DRIVER DOOR TO GAIN LEVERAGE -AND WITH BOTH HANDS STEER THE CAR ( WHIL…
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I WAS DRIVING ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY HOME FROM WORK WITH NORMAL TRAFFIC. MY SPEED WAS APPROX 60-64 OR SO. WHILE IN LEFT LANE TRAVELING EAST --WITHOUT WARNING , MY ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. IT WAS SO HARD TO STEER MY CAR -- I NEEDED TO WEDGE MY FOOT NEAR WINDOW /DRIVER DOOR TO GAIN LEVERAGE -AND WITH BOTH HANDS STEER THE CAR ( WHILE DECELERATING DOWN T O15 MPH) TO THE SHOULDER ON THE RIGHT SIDE. ALL DRIVERS PASSING ME - WITNESSED I WAS IN DIRE TROUBLE. I WAS ABLE TO GET TO SHOULDER AND PRAYED . MY REP AT QUEENS FORD WAS VERY HELPFUL AND I VE THANKED HIM NUMEROUS TIMES IN HIS ATTEMPTS TO HELP ME .BACK TO STORY: I OPENED THE HOOD , NO SMOKE -- MAYBE RADIATOR- SO I WAITED 10 MINUTES .THE ENGINE STARTED , I GOT BACK ON HIGHWAY-- AND IT SHUT OFF FOR A 2ND TIME. AT THAT TIME -- I WAS TOTALLY AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR ANY FURTHER. MY QUEENS REP SUGGESTED GOING TO SYOSSET FORD WHICH WAS CLOSER AND I DID SO.IT TOOK ME WHAT FELT LIKE DAYS TO GET UP ENOUGH NERVE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE ANY FURTHER.I BELIEVE MY CASE HAS MANY SAFETY ISSUES AND I EVEN STATED TO FORD TAKE CAR BACK AND REPLENISH ME FOR LOSS OF INCOME / RENTAL FEES PAID DURING THE 7 DAY ORDEAL. PROBLEM WAS : THROTTLE BODY PART. I WASN'T THE ONLY PERSON WHO HAD COME IN WITH THIS PROBLEM . FORD IS VERY COGNIZANT ABOUT SUCH . I ASKED THEM THIS VEHICLE BACK ( HAS 5910 MILES ) ON IT AND PUT ME INTO ANOTHER LINCOLN PRODUCT WHICH IS SIMILAR. NOR HAVE THE ADDITIONAL MEANS TO RENT ANOTHER CAR.I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE FROM FORD EVER. IF YOU CAN ASSIST ME TO ALERT OTHERS - FANTASTIC. OH , ADDITIONALLY, I OWNED A 2003 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR WHICH CONSTANTLY HAD ISSUES - AND THEY ( FORD /LINCOLN ) TOOK THAT VEHICLE IN UNDER NYS LEMON LAW -AND PROVIDED ME A NEW 2004 NAVIGATOR FOR NO COST AT ALL. DUE TO THAT EFFORT FROM FORD/LINCOLN . IVE BOUGHT 4 MORE FORD SINCE THEN . I SHOWED MY LOYALTY TO THEM , WHERE IS FORD'S .
NHTSA ODI #10872119
9,997 miles · May 26, 2016
Steering
AFTER HAVING JUST ENTERED A PARKING GARAGE, WE PROCEEDED OVER A SPEED BUMP AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH. ABOUT 1-2 CAR LENGTHS LATER WE BEGAN TO TURN LEFT TO START ASCENDING THROUGH THE GARAGE TO LOCATE A PARKING SPACE. AFTER ONLY TURNING APPROXIMATELY 10 DEGREES TO THE LEFT, THE STEERING WHEEL SNAPPED TO THE STRAIGHT POSITION AND …
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AFTER HAVING JUST ENTERED A PARKING GARAGE, WE PROCEEDED OVER A SPEED BUMP AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH. ABOUT 1-2 CAR LENGTHS LATER WE BEGAN TO TURN LEFT TO START ASCENDING THROUGH THE GARAGE TO LOCATE A PARKING SPACE. AFTER ONLY TURNING APPROXIMATELY 10 DEGREES TO THE LEFT, THE STEERING WHEEL SNAPPED TO THE STRAIGHT POSITION AND WOULD NOT MOVE. THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1/2" OF PLAY TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT ONLY AND THE WHEELS WOULD NOT TURN AT ALL. THIS WAS WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL IN MOTION. RECEIVED THREE DISCERNABLE ERROR MESSAGES ON DASH THAT RECURRED REPEATEDLY EACH TIME IT WAS CLEARED WITH THE OK BUTTON: 1. TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FAULT, 2. SERVICE ADVANCE TRAK, AND 3. HILL ASSIST FAULT. THE VEHICLE WOULD STILL DRIVE FORWARD OR REVERSE BUT WE HAD NO ABILITY TO STEER DESPITE EVEN MY HUSBAND'S STRONG PULL ON THE WHEEL. AFTER ABOUT 5-6 ATTEMPTS AT POWERING OFF AND RESTARTING THE VEHICLE, THE STEERING REMAINED "LOCKED". AFTER ABOUT 45 MINUTES OF WAITING AND TALKING ON THE PHONE WITH FORD TO OBTAIN A TOW, MY HUSBAND RESTARTED AGAIN AND THE STEERING WAS RESTORED.
NHTSA ODI #10871114
935 miles · Mar 13, 2016
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering
I RECENTLY RECEIVED A 2016 FORD POLICE UTILITY (EXPLORER) AS A NEW PATROL VEHICLE. WHILE ON PATROL I SUDDENLY LOST POWER STEERING. I RECEIVED A STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE ON THE DASH, AS WELL AS A TRACTION AND STABILITY CONTROL ERROR MESSAGE. THE VEHICLE HAS 935 MILES ON IT. I HAVE READ WHERE FORD HAS HAD PROBLEMS IN THE …
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I RECENTLY RECEIVED A 2016 FORD POLICE UTILITY (EXPLORER) AS A NEW PATROL VEHICLE. WHILE ON PATROL I SUDDENLY LOST POWER STEERING. I RECEIVED A STEERING ASSIST FAULT MESSAGE ON THE DASH, AS WELL AS A TRACTION AND STABILITY CONTROL ERROR MESSAGE. THE VEHICLE HAS 935 MILES ON IT. I HAVE READ WHERE FORD HAS HAD PROBLEMS IN THE PAST WITH THIS STEERING SYSTEM. AS A POLICE OFFICER I AM VERY CONCERNED THAT THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING WITH NO WARNING COULD RESULT IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR OFFICERS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE, AS WELL AS CIVILIANS DRIVING THE CIVILIAN MODEL. AS OF THIS COMPLAINT THE VEHICLE IS AT THE DEALERSHIP WAITING TO BE FIXED. FORD NEEDS TO GET THIS SYSTEM WORKING CORRECTLY.
NHTSA ODI #10846306
12,200 miles · Feb 26, 2016
Steering
WHILE MAKING A TURN ON A LOCAL STREET POWER STEERING WENT OUT. I WAS ABLE TO PULL TO THE SIDE SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE AND WAITED A MINUTE AND RESTARTED NO FURTHER ISSUES. I HAVE OWNED MANY EXPLORERS INCLUDING 11-13 AND NOW 16. THE 16 HAS 12K MILES ON IT.
NHTSA ODI #10838706
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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