NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Structure complaints
584 reportsClear category filter18,500 miles · Apr 25, 2017
Structure
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER LIFTGATE INDEPENDENTLY CLOSED AND A WARNING CHIME COULD BE HEARD BEFORE THE LIFT GATE CLOSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE LIFTGATE MODULE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER W…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER LIFTGATE INDEPENDENTLY CLOSED AND A WARNING CHIME COULD BE HEARD BEFORE THE LIFT GATE CLOSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE LIFTGATE MODULE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS GIVEN FORD CASE NUMBER: CAS12185619. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 18,500.
NHTSA ODI #10980376
23,000 miles · Apr 14, 2017
Structure
WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH I HEARD A NOISE AND CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF A OBJECT FLYING BY THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW OF MY VEHICLE. UPON STOPPING TO INVESTIGATE THE SUDDEN OCCURRENCE I DISCOVERED THAT THE PIECE OF PLASTIC TRIM ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD PASSENGER SIDE HAD BROKEN OFF. I RETRIEVED IT FROM THE SHO…
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WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH I HEARD A NOISE AND CAUGHT A GLIMPSE OF A OBJECT FLYING BY THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW OF MY VEHICLE. UPON STOPPING TO INVESTIGATE THE SUDDEN OCCURRENCE I DISCOVERED THAT THE PIECE OF PLASTIC TRIM ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD PASSENGER SIDE HAD BROKEN OFF. I RETRIEVED IT FROM THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND UPON EXAMINATION IT APPEARS THAT THE MOLDED CLIP HOLDERS BROKE AWAY FROM THEIR ANCHORS. FORTUNATELY THERE WAS NO VEHICLE BEHIND ME OR TO MY RIGHT. HAD THERE BEEN A VEHICLE IN CLOSE PROXIMITY THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. I KNOW THAT THIS INCIDENT STARTLED ME. HAVING RESEARCHED THIS TYPE OF INCIDENT I LEARNED THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE 2016 FORD EXPLORER. FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE BEFORE A TRAGEDY OCCURS.
NHTSA ODI #10978604
9,000 miles · Mar 20, 2017
Structure
LEAK IN ROOF DUE TO BODY WELD ISSUES. LEAK CAUSED RAIN TO ENTER. 3RD ROW SEATBELT WAS WET, AS WELL AS ELECTRICAL OUTLET IN TRUNK.
NHTSA ODI #10967307
500 miles · Feb 22, 2017
Electrical SystemSeatsStructureInjury
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE TRAVELING 25 MPH, THE TAILGATE INADVERTENTLY OPENED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE ISSUE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE HAD NOT RECURRED WHILE DRIVING, BUT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE CONTACT CLOSED THE TAILGATE, BU…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE TRAVELING 25 MPH, THE TAILGATE INADVERTENTLY OPENED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE ISSUE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE HAD NOT RECURRED WHILE DRIVING, BUT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE CONTACT CLOSED THE TAILGATE, BUT IT WOULD RE-OPEN. WHILE THE TAILGATE WAS OPEN, IT CLOSED UNEXPECTEDLY AND INJURED THE CONTACT'S HEAD. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS AWARE OF THE SENSOR FOR THE TAILGATE. ALSO, WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE DRIVER'S SEAT MOVED FORWARD AND INJURED THE CONTACT'S RIGHT KNEE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE, BUT THE VEHICLE MODULE WAS REPROGRAMMED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD SEVERAL ELECTRICAL ISSUES BECAUSE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL DISPLAY WOULD NOT OPERATE OR OPERATED INCORRECTLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 500.
NHTSA ODI #10956347
500 miles · Feb 21, 2017
EngineStructureUnknown Or Other
I ALREADY SUBMITTED ONE COMPLAINT TODAY ABOUT THE CABIN FILLING WITH EXHAUST FUMES WHILE ACCELERATING BUT THEN I WAS READING OTHER ISSUES PEOPLE WERE HAVING AND WANTED TO ENSURE YOU WERE AWARE OF MINE AS WELL. I HAD TO HAVE THE COOLING FANS REPLACED BECAUSE THEY WOULD COME TO A SCREECHING HALT WHEN YOU WOULD SHUT THE MOTOR OFF. …
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I ALREADY SUBMITTED ONE COMPLAINT TODAY ABOUT THE CABIN FILLING WITH EXHAUST FUMES WHILE ACCELERATING BUT THEN I WAS READING OTHER ISSUES PEOPLE WERE HAVING AND WANTED TO ENSURE YOU WERE AWARE OF MINE AS WELL. I HAD TO HAVE THE COOLING FANS REPLACED BECAUSE THEY WOULD COME TO A SCREECHING HALT WHEN YOU WOULD SHUT THE MOTOR OFF. I HAD TO HAVE THE INSIDE OF THE POWER LIFT GATE REPAINTED WHERE THE MOTOR AND SHOCK ARE LOCATED BECAUSE THE PAINT WAS CRACKING. THE CENTER CAPS ON THE WHEELS ARE FALLING IN SO THOSE ARE GOING TO BE REPLACED. IT IS NOW RUSTING ON THE BACK OF MY CAR BY THE REAR TAIL LIGHT. THE HOOD VIBRATES REALLY BAD WHEN GOING OVER 65 MPH. I HAVEN'T TAKEN IT IN FOR THAT YET BECAUSE I CAN'T GET IT TO DO IT ALL OF THE TIME. IT HAS TO BE WINDY FOR IT TO HAPPEN TO ME. THE FRONT DOOR BLACK TRIM PIECES ON THE OUTSIDE STARTED TO BUBBLE SO THOSE HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE ONLY SAFETY CONCERN IS THE HOOD VIBRATING. THE REST ARE JUST FYI'S AS THEY SEEM TO BE COMMON PROBLEMS. I BOUGHT THIS CAR BRAND NEW IN NOVEMBER 2015 AND IT HAS HAD PROBLEMS SINCE THE 1ST MONTH.
NHTSA ODI #10955762
16,850 miles · Feb 8, 2017
EngineStructureUnknown Or Other
WE TOOK OUR 2016 EXPLORER LIMITED BACK TO THE SHOP FOR THE SECOND TIME AFTER SMELLING EXHAUST IN THE CABIN AGAIN WHILE IN OPERATION. DURING THE FIRST VISIT THE DEALER BEGAN DISCUSSING THE FORD REPAIR BULLETIN THAT CAME OUT 30 DAYS OR SO AGO THAT WAS TO FIX THE EXHAUST LEAK. HOWEVER, AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS LATER WE RECEIVED A CA…
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WE TOOK OUR 2016 EXPLORER LIMITED BACK TO THE SHOP FOR THE SECOND TIME AFTER SMELLING EXHAUST IN THE CABIN AGAIN WHILE IN OPERATION. DURING THE FIRST VISIT THE DEALER BEGAN DISCUSSING THE FORD REPAIR BULLETIN THAT CAME OUT 30 DAYS OR SO AGO THAT WAS TO FIX THE EXHAUST LEAK. HOWEVER, AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS LATER WE RECEIVED A CALL THAT THE BULLETIN HE REFERENCED WAS SPECIFICALLY FOR 2011 THRU 2015". WE WERE TOLD THAT PER THE BULLETIN THE EXHAUST SYSTEM FROM THE ENGINE MANIFOLD TO THE TAIL PIPE GETS REPLACED, A FRESH AIR VENT NEAR THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE GETS "RE-ROUTED" AND THE BUMPER COMES OFF TO GAIN ACCESS TO SOME METAL SEAMS NEEDED TO BE FILLED. OUR SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE STATED HIS HANDS WERE TIED AND COULD NOT DO ANYTHING MORE THAN TAKE IT IN A CHECK IT OUT. THEY CALLED A FOUND THE EXHAUST OUTLETS WERE RECESSED TOO FAR INTO THE BUMPER AND RESET THEM TO THE ORIGINAL POSITION. WE PICKED IT UP MONDAY AND THEN DRIVING IT TUESDAY THIS WEEK A HORRIBLE SMELL CAME TOR THE CABIN AND TOOK MY BREATH AWAY. BLACK SMOKE WAS COMING OUT OF THE EXHAUST PIPE. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER YESTERDAY.
NHTSA ODI #10950398
21,500 miles · Jan 17, 2017
StructureInjury
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY OPENED WITHOUT WARNING AND FAILED TO REMAIN SECURED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY FELL DOWN WITH FORCE AND STRUCK A PASSENGER. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. ALSO, THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY OPENED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN M…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY OPENED WITHOUT WARNING AND FAILED TO REMAIN SECURED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY FELL DOWN WITH FORCE AND STRUCK A PASSENGER. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED. ALSO, THE LIFTGATE RANDOMLY OPENED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE LIFTGATE WAS DAMAGED WHILE REVERSING THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD A SERVICE BULLETIN, BUT THERE WAS NO RECOMMENDED REPAIR SOLUTION. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT A NEW MODULATOR WAS NEEDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 21,500.
NHTSA ODI #10945643
31,000 miles · Dec 11, 2016
Structure
WHEN DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE A-PILLAR WINDSHIELD MOULDING/APPLIQUE FLIES OFF. NOT ONLY IS IT UNACCEPTABLE FOR BODY/TRIM PANELS TO FLY OFF A VEHICLE DURING NORMAL DRIVING, BUT THIS POSES A SAFETY RISK, AS IT CREATES FLYING DEBRIS FOR VEHICLES TRAVELING BEHIND THE AFFECTED VEHICLE. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10934505
8,000 miles · Jul 31, 2016
EngineStructureUnknown Or Other
I HAVE TO MAJOR COMPLAINTS WITH THE FORD EXPLORER 2016. THE TRUCK WAS PURCHASED BRAND NEW. THE FIRST OCCURRED WHEN I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK ABOUT 7:30AM. I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 60 MILES PER ON HOUR ON A CITY STREET AND ALL OF A SUDDEN A WRENCH SYMBOL SHOWS AND THE CAR WILL NOT ACCELERATE ANYMORE. I HAD NEVER SEEN THIS SYMBOL BEFORE …
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I HAVE TO MAJOR COMPLAINTS WITH THE FORD EXPLORER 2016. THE TRUCK WAS PURCHASED BRAND NEW. THE FIRST OCCURRED WHEN I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK ABOUT 7:30AM. I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 60 MILES PER ON HOUR ON A CITY STREET AND ALL OF A SUDDEN A WRENCH SYMBOL SHOWS AND THE CAR WILL NOT ACCELERATE ANYMORE. I HAD NEVER SEEN THIS SYMBOL BEFORE SO I WASN'T SURE WHAT WAS GOING ON AND COULD NOT FIND IT IN THE MANUAL. BEFORE THIS I ONLY COULD GO ABOUT 5 MILES PER HOUR MAX SPEED. WHEN I GOOGLED THE WRENCH MANY OTHERS HAD THE SAME ISSUE. I AM SURE FORD IS AWARE OF THIS AND SHOULD HAD SAID SOMETHING ABOUT THIS BEFORE WE PURCHASED IT. I HAD TO END UP LEAVING THE EXPLORER UP AT FORD FOR 2 AND A HALF WEEKS. WHEN I GOOGLED THE ISSUE IT SAID THESE EXPLORERS HAVE A FAULTY THROTTLE BODY THAT HAS TO BE REPLACED AND MY VEHICLE WAS NO DIFFERENT. ME AND MY WIFE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO MAKE MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON A BRAND NEW VEHICLE THAT HAS A KNOWN ISSUE. SECONDLY, ONCE WE HIT ABOUT 8,000 MILES THE HOOD MAKES A LOUD BUZZING/HUMMING SOUND ONCE YOU HIT ABOUT 60 MILES PER HOUR THAT DOES NOT STOP!!! MANY OTHER PEOPLE WITH THIS VEHICLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM ONCE I GOOGLED THIS! THIS IS ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD BE RECALLED AND NOT SOLD! OUR ENTIRE TRIP THIS VEHICLE MADE THE SOUND NONSTOP. A PERSON SHOULD NOT HAVE TO HEAR THIS THE ENTIRE TIME ON A BRAND NEW VEHICLE THAT YOU MAKE MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON. SOMETHING SHOULD BE DONE ABOUT THIS. SINCE FORD DOES NOT WANT TO VOLUNTARILY ISSUE A RECALL LIKE THEY SHOULD, AN INVOLUNTARY RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED. WHEN I GOOGLED THIS, IT IS SAID THAT THE SOUND COMES FROM THE THIN PART OF THE HOOD IN THE CENTER THAT IS BETWEEN TWO THICKER PIECES THAT CAUSES IT TO VIBRATE. HORRIBLE DESIGN AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN TESTED BETTER.
NHTSA ODI #10891892
500 miles · Jul 7, 2016
StructureInjury
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE INDEPENDENTLY CLOSED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED APPROXIMATELY FOUR TIMES. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SLIPPED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MOVE AWAY AND SUSTAINED A BROKEN HIP, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE INDEPENDENTLY CLOSED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED APPROXIMATELY FOUR TIMES. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SLIPPED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MOVE AWAY AND SUSTAINED A BROKEN HIP, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 500. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 12/20/16*LJ *JS
NHTSA ODI #10883290
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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