NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Wheels complaints
50 reportsClear category filter11,100 miles · Jun 8, 2017
Wheels
NOTICED 2 WEEKS AGO THAT THE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 TIRES ON OUR EXPLORER WERE PEELING AND CHUNKS WERE COMING OUT. WE BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE DEALER SINCE THEY HAD JUST PERFORMED A TIRE ROTATION A COUPLE WEEKS PRIOR AND SAID THE TIRES WERE IN GOOD SHAPE. THEY SAID "OH, YOU HAVE THE HANKOOK? THOSE ARE KNOWN FOR THAT". THEY COULD…
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NOTICED 2 WEEKS AGO THAT THE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 TIRES ON OUR EXPLORER WERE PEELING AND CHUNKS WERE COMING OUT. WE BROUGHT THE CAR TO THE DEALER SINCE THEY HAD JUST PERFORMED A TIRE ROTATION A COUPLE WEEKS PRIOR AND SAID THE TIRES WERE IN GOOD SHAPE. THEY SAID "OH, YOU HAVE THE HANKOOK? THOSE ARE KNOWN FOR THAT". THEY COULD NOT REPLACE THEM. CONTACTED HANKOOK AND FORD. WE WERE TOLD THEY WOULD PUT NEW HANKOOK TIRES ON, BUT AFTER LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS ONLINE AND THE FACT THAT HANKOOK LISTS THE TIRES AS "THE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRE IS AN ULTRA HIGH PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON TIRE THAT IS DEVELOPED SPECIFICALLY FOR HIGH END SPORTS CARS AND MAXIMUM HANDLING." THIS WOULD MEAN THEY ARE NOT DESIGNED FOR A 4 WHEEL DRIVE SUV. WE ARE STILL DEALIGN WITH FORD TO TRY AND GET A DIFFERENT TIRE PUT ON OUR VEHICLE. HOW SUCH AN UNSAFE TIRE CAN BE SOMETHING THAT A CAR DEALER AND MANUFACTURER CAN KNOWINGLY PUT ON A CAR WHEN "IT IS A KNOWN ISSUE ON THIS VEHICLE WITH THIS TIRE" IS BEYOND MY UNDERSTANDING. TREAD WEAR WAS AT 11,100 WHEN THIS ISSUE OCCURRED.
NHTSA ODI #10994066
27,000 miles · Apr 24, 2017
Wheels
TREAD ON MY HANKOOK TIRES IS PEELING OFF. THEY HAVE 27,000 MILES ON THEM. I ONLY DRIVE TO WORK AND BACK. THEY ARE THE VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2.
NHTSA ODI #10980266
26,000 miles · Apr 20, 2017
Wheels
THE TIRES HAVE 26000 MILES ON THEM AND THE TIRE IS PEELING OFF LIKE FLAKES. I LIVE IN GAINESVILLE, FL, WHICH HAS VERY GOOD ROADS AND I DRIVE 99% OF THE TIME WITHIN CITY OTHER THAN GOING TO ORLANDO OR JACKSONVILLE ON I75. ALSO THE TIRES HAVE WORN OFF WAY TOO QUICKLY THAN NORMAL AS THEY HAVE REACHED 4MM WEAR WITHIN 26000 MILES!! …
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THE TIRES HAVE 26000 MILES ON THEM AND THE TIRE IS PEELING OFF LIKE FLAKES. I LIVE IN GAINESVILLE, FL, WHICH HAS VERY GOOD ROADS AND I DRIVE 99% OF THE TIME WITHIN CITY OTHER THAN GOING TO ORLANDO OR JACKSONVILLE ON I75. ALSO THE TIRES HAVE WORN OFF WAY TOO QUICKLY THAN NORMAL AS THEY HAVE REACHED 4MM WEAR WITHIN 26000 MILES!! THE TIRE MANUFACTURER IS REFUSING TO REPLACE IT AND ONLY OFFERING 4% DISCOUNT ON NEW TIRES. THIS IS GROSS NEGLIGENCE OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITY AND WARRANTY.
NHTSA ODI #10979449
23,000 miles · Mar 30, 2017
Wheels
HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 255/50R20 105H TIRES. AT 20,000 NOTICED RUBBER PIECES OF TREAD PEELING AWAY AND CHIPPING FROM ALL FOUR CLEARLY DEFECTIVE TIRES. THIS DEFECT APPEARS SIMILAR TO TREAD BEING SLICED BY RAZOR BLADES ALL OVER THE TIRES. DEALER ACKNOWLEDGES DEFECTIVE TIRES, BUT REFUSES TO HONOR FORDS WARRANTY TO PRORATE RE…
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HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 255/50R20 105H TIRES. AT 20,000 NOTICED RUBBER PIECES OF TREAD PEELING AWAY AND CHIPPING FROM ALL FOUR CLEARLY DEFECTIVE TIRES. THIS DEFECT APPEARS SIMILAR TO TREAD BEING SLICED BY RAZOR BLADES ALL OVER THE TIRES. DEALER ACKNOWLEDGES DEFECTIVE TIRES, BUT REFUSES TO HONOR FORDS WARRANTY TO PRORATE REPLACEMENT AT LESS 60 PERCENT, AND IS ONLY WILLING TO REPLACE WITH SAME BRAND OF TIRE AT 20 PERCENT DISCOUNT OFF $242.00 WHICH IS CLEARLY OVERCHARGING AS I CAN FIND THESE TIRES FOR $97 RETAIL.. THESE TIRES ARE DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE RECALLED IN LIKE MANNER AS HANKOOKS OTHER 47000 TIRES WHICH WERE RECALLED. I HAVE SEEN OTHER REPORTS ON THE SAME TIRES ON FORD EXPLORERS. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE BEFORE PEOPLE ARE INJURED BY THE MALFUNCTION OF THESE TIRES, OR WORSE. FORD SHOULD BE FORCED TO RECALL THESE TIRES.
NHTSA ODI #10969602
27,000 miles · Mar 9, 2017
SteeringSuspensionWheels
WHEN DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 70MPH, I COMPLETELY LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE FOR NO KNOWN REASON. I VEERED ACROSS 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC AND BACK ACROSS 2 MORE. CARS WERE SWERVING AROUND ME AND MIRACULOUSLY I WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT. I PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND OTHER CARS TRAVELING BEHIND ME AT THE TIME DID…
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WHEN DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 70MPH, I COMPLETELY LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE FOR NO KNOWN REASON. I VEERED ACROSS 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC AND BACK ACROSS 2 MORE. CARS WERE SWERVING AROUND ME AND MIRACULOUSLY I WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT. I PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND OTHER CARS TRAVELING BEHIND ME AT THE TIME DID TOO. WE COULDN'T SEE ANY REASON WHY THE CAR WASN'T WORKING PROPERLY SO AFTER CATCHING MY BREATH, I TRIED TO GET BACK ON THE ROAD. I COULD FEEL MY CAR INTERMITTENTLY "SLIPPING". IT FELT AS THOUGH IT WAS LOSING TRACTION AND I WAS LOSING CONTROL AND NOT ABLE TO STEER. I ULTIMATELY PULLED OVER AND CALLED A TOWTRUCK AS I KNEW MY VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER SAW THAT MY REAR TIRES WERE COMPLETELY BALD ONLY ON THE INSIDE. MY CAR HAD 27,000MILES ON IT AT THE TIME. I REPLACED THE BACK 2 TIRES THAT DAY. AND THE FRONT 2 THE FOLLOWING DAY. 2 WEEKS LATER, MY CAR WAS NOT DRIVING PROPERLY AND I BROUGHT IT INTO A LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. THEY PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC. THEY TOLD ME MY REAR SUSPENSION WAS A MESS, THE UPPERCONTROL ARM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, THE BUSHINGS ON MY BACK RIGHT WHEEL WERE LOSE AND HAD A LOT OF PLAY AND THAT NONE OF THIS WAS COVERED UNDER MY B2B WARRANTY BECAUSE THE RIGHT REAR TOW LINK WAS BENT AND THE WEDDINGS WERE LOSE. ALSO, THE TIRES I PUT ON 2 WEEKS AGO WERE STRIPPED BALD ON THE INSIDES AGAIN AND NEEDED TOMBS REPLACED. MY CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. FORD RECALLED 75,000 EXPLORES MADE IN 2014-15 DUE TO FAULTY REAR SUSPENSION FROM IMPROPER WELDING OF TOW LINKS. I BELIEVE MY CAR IS A DEMONSTRATION THAT THIS IS STILL AN ONGOING MANUFACTURER ISSUE WITH THESE VEHICLES AND I WANT TO PROPERLY REPORT IT SO THAT OTHER YOUNG MOTHERS DO NOT HAVE THE SAME DANGEROUS ENCOUNTER THAT I HAD.
NHTSA ODI #10959706
9,800 miles · Feb 23, 2017
Wheels
2016 FORD EXPLORER PURCHASED JULY 2016. 9800 MILES. TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION. THEY TOLD US THE TIRES WERE SHOT. HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 H452 255/50R20 105H BSW. THEY ASKED US IF THE CAR HAD EVER GOTTEN STUCK OR IF WE EVER DRIVE ON GRAVEL ROADS. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN STUCK BUT WE…
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2016 FORD EXPLORER PURCHASED JULY 2016. 9800 MILES. TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION. THEY TOLD US THE TIRES WERE SHOT. HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 H452 255/50R20 105H BSW. THEY ASKED US IF THE CAR HAD EVER GOTTEN STUCK OR IF WE EVER DRIVE ON GRAVEL ROADS. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN STUCK BUT WE DO HAVE A GRAVEL DRIVEWAY. THEY OFFERED TO SELL US A NEW SET OF TIRES AND SEND THE OLD TIRES BACK TO HANKOOK FOR ANALYSIS. CALLED FORD CORPORATE AND OPENED A CASE CAS11650061. SAME RESPONSE - BUY A NEW SET OF TIRES AND WE'LL SEND THEM BACK TO HANKOOK FOR ANALYSIS. I FINALLY REVIEWED THE SPECIFICATIONS FOR THESE TIRES: "THE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRE IS AN ULTRA HIGH PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON TIRE THAT IS DEVELOPED SPECIFICALLY FOR HIGH END SPORTS CARS AND MAXIMUM HANDLING." NOW I KNOW WHY I'VE BEEN FINDING PIECES OF RUBBER ON MY CONCRETE TURN-AROUND PAD. PARTS OF THE TREAD ARE PEELING OFF. SHAME ON ME FOR NOT DOING THE RESEARCH FIRST, AND SEEING THAT THESE TIRES ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR SERVICE ON A 4WD EXPLORER. SHAME ON FORD FOR SPECIFYING THIS TIRE FOR THIS VEHICLE. I'LL BE BUYING A NEW SET OF TIRES AT MY LOCAL TIRE SHOP. THESE TIRES WILL NOT BE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 H452 255/50R20 105H BSW TIRES. THESE TIRES WILL BE SUITABLE FOR SERVICE ON A FORD EXPLORER. I CAN'T AFFORD TO BE BUYING A NEW SET OF TIRES EVERY 10K MILES.
NHTSA ODI #10956456
22,500 miles · Jan 20, 2017
Wheels
I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORER XLT BACK IN SEPTEMBER OF 2015. NOW, AFTER ONLY 16 MONTHS OF DRIVING AND 23,000 MILES DRIVEN MY DEALER IS TELLING ME THAT I NEED NEW TIRES ON THE CAR. WE HAVE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 TIRES (H452) AND THE TIRES CARRY A TREAD WARRANTY OF 50,000 MILES HOWEVER THE DEALER SAYS THEY DON'T GUARANTEE THE TI…
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I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORER XLT BACK IN SEPTEMBER OF 2015. NOW, AFTER ONLY 16 MONTHS OF DRIVING AND 23,000 MILES DRIVEN MY DEALER IS TELLING ME THAT I NEED NEW TIRES ON THE CAR. WE HAVE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 TIRES (H452) AND THE TIRES CARRY A TREAD WARRANTY OF 50,000 MILES HOWEVER THE DEALER SAYS THEY DON'T GUARANTEE THE TIRE AND I CALLED HANKOOK AND THEY SAID THEY ONLY GUARANTEE TIRES THAT YOU PURCHASE SECONDARILY AND NOT ON OEM TIRES INCLUDED IN THE PURCHASE OF THE CAR. TIRE SIZE IS 255/50R20. I WOULD THINK THAT EITHER THE DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURE WOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT INSTEAD OF PAWNING IT OFF ON ONE ANOTHER WHILE I APPARENTLY HAVE TO FORK OUT $1,000.00 FOR A BAD PRODUCT. NOT SURE WHAT ELSE TO SAY EXCEPT I WOULD ADVISE ANYBODY LOOKING FOR TIRES TO NEVER BUY HANKOOK TIRES. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10946739
17,000 miles · Dec 13, 2016
Wheels
PARTS OF THE HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE2 255/50R20 105H TIRE TREADS ARE JUST RIPPING OFF FOR NO APPARENT REASON ON ALL MY TIRES AND THIS IS AN AWD VEHICLE. IT HAS 17,000 MILES. THIS VEHICLE IS JUST USED BY WIFE TO DROP OFF MY SON AT SCHOOL. THEY ARE BREAKING OFF WITHOUT BEING MISTREATED. JUST NOTICED TODAY 12-13-2016
NHTSA ODI #10935149
6,000 miles · Jul 20, 2016
EngineWheels
WHILE MOVING AT HIGH SPEED IN RUSH-HOUR TRAFFIC IN THE FAST LANE ON HWY 680 S IN DUBLIN, CA THE ENGINE JUST SHUT DOWN. THIS IS DANGEROUS. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO FORD FOR REPAIR - THEY STATE IT WAS A "THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY" PROBLEM - APPARENTLY A WELL-KNOW PROBLEM. THIS HAPPENED WITH LESS THAN 6,000 MILES. ALSO, ALL 4 ORIGINAL…
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WHILE MOVING AT HIGH SPEED IN RUSH-HOUR TRAFFIC IN THE FAST LANE ON HWY 680 S IN DUBLIN, CA THE ENGINE JUST SHUT DOWN. THIS IS DANGEROUS. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO FORD FOR REPAIR - THEY STATE IT WAS A "THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY" PROBLEM - APPARENTLY A WELL-KNOW PROBLEM. THIS HAPPENED WITH LESS THAN 6,000 MILES. ALSO, ALL 4 ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT TIRES BLEW-OUT WITH LESS THAN 6,000 MILES - ONLY ONE HAD A ROAD-HAZARD - ALL HAD SIDEWALL FAILURES. FORD REPAIRED THE THROTTLE-BODY ASSEMBLY BUT NOT THE TIRES. TO KEEP US HAPPY, THEY OFFERED US AN "EXTENDED WARRANTY" - THIS WAS NEVER PROVIDED - INDEED, DESPITE REPEATED E-MAILS TO 2 FORD REPRESENTATIVES OVER A 3-MONTH TIME-PERIOD, I NO LONGER RECEIVE ANY RESPONSE FROM THEM WHATSOEVER. THEREFORE, IT WOULD SEEM THAT NOT ONLY ARE THEY PROVIDING A DANGEROUS PRODUCT, THEY ARE ALSO DECEPTIVE IN THEIR HANDLING OF CUSTOMERS.
NHTSA ODI #10886095
12,000 miles · Jun 23, 2016
Wheels
2016 FORD EXPLORER WITH HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES. APPROXIMATELY 3 MONTHS AGO MY WIFE WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL SURFACE STREET AT 45 MPH. HER TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR ILLUMINATED ON THE DASH WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY THE VEHICLE VEERED SHARPLY TO THE RIGHT. UPON INSPECTION THERE WAS A 2-3 INCH LACERATION IN THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT …
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2016 FORD EXPLORER WITH HANKOOK VENTUS S1 NOBLE 2 TIRES. APPROXIMATELY 3 MONTHS AGO MY WIFE WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL SURFACE STREET AT 45 MPH. HER TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR ILLUMINATED ON THE DASH WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY THE VEHICLE VEERED SHARPLY TO THE RIGHT. UPON INSPECTION THERE WAS A 2-3 INCH LACERATION IN THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THERE WERE NOT ANY POTHOLES IN THE STREET WHERE THIS INCIDENT OCCURRED. TIRE SEEMED TO HAVE SIMPLY "BLOWN OUT". TIRE WAS REPLACED. YESTERDAY MY WIFE WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN FROM FROM ONE SURFACE STREET TO ANOTHER TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 15-20 MPH AND THE REPLACEMENT TIRE BLEW OUT AGAIN. SIMILAR DETAILS; TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR ILLUMINATED WHILE VEHICLE SUDDENLY VEERED TO THE RIGHT. AGAIN, NO POTHOLES WERE PRESENT AND ZERO INDICATION OF FOREIGN OBJECTS CAUSING FLAT. THERE WAS APPROXIMATELY A 2-3 INCH LACERATION TO SIDEWALL OF FRONT PASSENGER TIRE. THESE TWO INCIDENTS OCCURRED IN A RELATIVELY SHORT TIME SPAN. I HAVE READ COMPLAINTS ABOUT WEAK SIDEWALLS REGARDING THESE TIRES AS EARLY AS 2013. ADDITIONALLY, HANKOOK AND HYUNDAI HAVE ISSUED A RECALL FOR THESE TIRES (ALBEIT A DIFFERENT SIZE) DUE TO SIDEWALL PROBLEMS. WITHOUT POTHOLES AND/OR FOREIGN OBJECTS CAUSING THE FLAT TIRES, IT SEEMS OBVIOUS THAT THESE TIRES ARE DEFECTIVE. MY WIFE DOES NOT FEEL SAFE IN HER VEHICLE, AND IS AFRAID THAT ANOTHER BLOWOUT MAY OCCUR WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHER SPEEDS (FREEWAY).
NHTSA ODI #10876045
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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