2000 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Tires is the leading concern among 1,078 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 11th highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2000 reports, 112 involved a crash and 83 involved a fire. 118 people were injured and 4 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Vehicle speed controlOct 13, 2009
FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
Campaign 09V399000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, headlightsMay 11, 2009
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Campaign 09E025000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingApr 7, 2009
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Campaign 09E012000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed controlAug 3, 2007
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
Campaign 07V336000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasolineJun 13, 2006
CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.
Campaign 06E056000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lightingMar 23, 2006
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Campaign 06E026000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, reclinerAug 5, 2003
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HIGH BACK SEATS, THE UPPER BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE HIGH BACK SEAT, THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT RECLINER MECHANISM TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME, COULD FRACTURE. IF THE BOLT FRACTURES AND DOES NOT JAM IN THE SEAT BACK FRAME, THE SEAT BACK MAY RECLINE UNTIL IT MAKES CONTACT WITH AN OBJECT BEHIND THE SEAT, SUCH AS THE SECOND ROW SEAT CUSHION.
THE DRIVER COULD POTENTIALLY LOSE CONTACT WITH THE STEERING WHEEL OR FOOT PEDALS DURING SUCH AN EVENT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SEAT UPPER BOLT WITH A METAL SPACER AND BOLT. IN ADDITION, SEATS WITH TUBULAR BACK FRAMES WILL HAVE THE FULLY THREADED LOWER RECLINER BOLT REPLACED WITH A PARTIALLY THREADED BOLT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON AUGUST 29, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 03V281000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed control, cablesAug 5, 2003
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL AND 4.0L SOHC ENGINES, IF THE STRAND COVER ON THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE BECOMES FLARED AT THE END, THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE MAY BIND WHEN THE SPEED CONTROL IS ACTIVATED.
THE THROTTLE RETURN SPRING FORCE MAY NOT BE SUFFICIENT TO OVERCOME THE BINDING CONDITION WHEN THE SPEED CONTROL IS DISENGAGED. BRAKING FUNCTION WOULD BE MAINTAINED THOUGH STOPPING DISTANCES MAY BE INCREASED.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SPEED CONTROL CABLE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 29, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 03V280000 on NHTSA.gov
StructureMar 7, 2003
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.
THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHERN COMFORT AT 1-800-745-6096.
Campaign 03V094000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, tread/beltMay 22, 2001
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
Campaign 01X001000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Nov 28, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 3.27 OR 3.55 AXLE RATION. THE SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE THAT COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO EXCEED THE DESIGN INTENT TOP SPEED. AT THESE EXTREME SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE COULD BE CAPABLE OF EXCEEDING THE SPEED RATING OF THE TIRE.
OPERATING THE VEHICLE ABOVE THE MAXIMUM SPEED RATING COULD LEAD TO A TIRE FAILURE WHICH AT THESE SPEEDS COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE.
Campaign 00V395000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, tread/beltAug 21, 2000
TIRE DESCRIPTION: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT, SIZE P235/75R15, PRODUCED AT THE DECATUR, ILLINOIS TIRE PLANT AND ALL FIRESTONE RADIAL ATX AND RADIAL ATX II TIRES, SIZE P235/75R15. OPERATION OF THESE TIRES AT LOW INFLATION PRESSURES, HIGH SPEED, AND IN HOT WEATHER, CAN CONTRIBUTE TO SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD.
IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON AUGUST 29, 2001. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS SHOULD CONTACT FIRESTONE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-465-1904 FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
Campaign 00T005000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsAug 18, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE ON CERTAIN SEAT BELT BUCKLES OF YOUR VEHICLE AND REPLACE ALL SEAT BELT BUCKLES THAT FALL WITHIN THE SUSPECT DATE CODE RANGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 26, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Campaign 00V228001 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/windowJul 5, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 4-DOOR SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIR BAGS. THE SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A REVISED LEVEL SIDE CRASH SENSOR THAT COULD DEPLOY THE SIDE AIR BAG IF THE IGNITION KEY IS IN THE "RUN" POSITION AND THE SEATBELT WEBBING IS FORCIBLY EXTRACTED FROM A LOCKED RETRACTOR WITH A JERKING MOTION.
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SIDE CRASH SENSORS WITH A REVISED DESIGN THAT WILL REDUCE THE LIKELIHOOD OF AN UNEXPECTED SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT.
Campaign 00V179000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiring, fuses and circuit breakersMar 7, 2000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.0L ENGINES AND ALL-TIME 4-WHEEL DRIVE (A4WD) POWERTRAINS. THE GENERIC ELECTRONIC MODULE (GEM) COULD EXPERIENCE A CONDITION REFERRED TO AS "LOCK-UP" IN WHICH THE GEM CONTROLLED ELECTRONIC FUNCTIONS (E.G., FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPERS, INTERIOR LIGHTS, 4X4 SYSTEM, ETC.) COULD NOT BE TURNED ON OR, IN SOME CASES IF THE FUNCTION IS ON, COULD NOT BE TURNED OFF.
AN INOPERATIVE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEM COULD AFFECT DRIVER VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RESISTOR IN THE GEM CIRCUIT.
Campaign 00V072000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
1,078 reports, newest first.
Power train, Apr 12, 2007
TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. THE ODI WARNING LIGHT CONTINUOUSLY FLASHED. A LOCAL MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE AS HAVING TO DO WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 79,108. *AK
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 30, 2007
NO EVENTS LED UP TO THE CRANKSHAFT FAILURE. OUR 2000 FORD EXPLORER WAS BEING DRIVEN AS A DAILY ROUTINE TRIP IN TOWN. THE CAR DIED AT A STOP LIGHT. I WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE CAR . THE CAR MADE A LOUD CLUNK. I DROVE THE VEHICLE INTO A PARKING LOT AND SHUT IT OFF. WE HAD A CERTIFIED FORD MECHANIC COME OUT TO LOOK AT THE CAR. HE WAS VERY FAMILIAR WITH THIS V6 ENGINE. HE STATED TO US THAT THE CRANKSHAFT FORD USED WAS A CAST IRON CRANK AND NOT A FORGED STEEL CRANK. WHAT HAPPENS IS THE CRANKSHAFT WILL DEVELOP CRACKS IN IT AND EVENTUALLY BREAK APART. HIS COMMENT WAS IT WAS A BAD IDEA AND BAD DESIGN BY FORD. THIS MECHANIC WORKED FOR FORD FOR 18 YEARS AND STATED THAT THIS PARTICULAR ENGINE WAS USED FROM 1995-2001 AND I BELIEVE HE SAID IT WAS A COLOGNE V6 .OUR 2 OPTIONS AT THIS POINT IS TO PUT IN A NEW MOTOR OR JUNK THE CAR. THIS VEHICLE IS A 2000 FORD EXPLORER SPORT 2 DOOR. TWO WHEEL DRIVE. DEALER MAINTAINED AT 30000,60000,AND RECENTLY AT 90000 MILES .CURRENT MILEAGE IS 91000. OIL CHANGED EVERY 2 MONTHS REGARDLESS. MAINTENANCE RECORDS ARE ALL AVAILABLE. NO REASON FOR AN IMPORTANT COMPONENT LIKE A CRANKSHAFT TO CRACK AND RUIN THE CAR. *JB
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 29, 2007
2000 EXPLORER XLT WITH APPROXIMATELY 55000 MILES. TAKEN TO DEALER TO BE SERVED C FOR STALLING AND FAILURE TO RESTART WITH HIGH TEMPERATURE. DEALER REPORTED THAT ENGINE HDS COOLANT AND OIL MIXING AND WILL HAVE TO BE REPLACED, $3500 COST. WHEN I OBJECTED, DEALER THEN STATED THAT THE LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET FAILED, AND THAT THE ENGINE WILL NEED TO BE TORN DOWN TO FIX , 2,000. . I OBJECTED AGAIN, AND DEALER DECIDED TO REPLACE GASKET, FLUSH OIL, COOLANT SYSTEMS, AND RETURN TO THE ROAD , $1100. DEALER INFORMED ME THAT THEY COULD NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR FUTURE ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO COOLANT IN ENGINE. I INVESTIGATED, AND FOUND SECRET WARRANTY SERVICE BULLETIN , NETS NUMBER 616816. WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO RECOVER COST OF REPAIR UNDER SB, DEALER REFUSED, CLAIMING THAT SB EXTENSION WAS OVER , ENDED DECEMBER 2006. THIS VEHICLE HAD LESS THAN THE LIMITED MILEAGE UNDER THE WARRANTY, AND OBVIOUS DRIVING RATES LESS THAN EXPECTED UNDER THE WARRANTY , ORIGINAL AND SECRET EXTENSION.. CUSTOMERS HAVE NOT BEEN MADE AWARE OF THIS SECRET WARRANTY EXTENSION. ENGINE GASKETS, INCLUDING HEAD GASKETS AND MANIFOLD GASKETS WERE NOT OWNER SERVICED ITEMS, AND WERE EXPECTED TO LIVE AS LONG AS THE POWER PLANT. I EXPECTED FORD TO LIVE UP TO THEIR PRODUCT HYPE AND FIX THIS VEHICLE FOR FREE, INCLUDING COMPLETE ENGINE REPLACEMENT IF REQUIRED.*AK
Power train, Mar 15, 2007
VEHICLE UNDERWENT 95000 MILE INSPECTION WHICH INCLUDED CHANGE OF TRANSMISSION FLUID AND FILTER IN OCT 06. IN FEB THE TRANSMISSION FAILED ON RETURN FROM SHORT TRIP. LOCAL FORD GARAGE ADVISED THAT LIKELY CAUSE WAS LEAKING TRANSMISSION SEAL. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY TRANSMISSION LEAK ON DRIVEWAY, OR GARAGE FLOOR. THERE WAS NO PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE NOT SHIFTING CORRECTLY UNTIL EVENING OF PROBLEM. IT WAS AS IF ALL FLUID WAS LOST AT ONCE BUT GARAGE CLAIMS THAT IT WAS PRESSURE LEAK? *JB
Electrical system, Feb 22, 2007, fire
FORD 2000 EXPITITION CAUGHT ON FIRE AND WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED AND OCCURED IN MY DRIVEWAY AROUND 7AM AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ON AND THE LAST TIME USED AROUND 10:30 PM THE PREVIOUS NIGHT. *NM
Power train, Feb 19, 2007
PREMATURE FAILURE OF AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, 2000 FORD EXPLORER, TRANSMISSION IS THE SAME USED IN THE PINTO. VERY UNDER RATED FOR WHAT IT IS EXPECTED TO PERFORM. *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 3, 2007
#8 SPARK PLUG POPPED OUT OF HEAD CAUSING THE THREADS TO STRIP IN HEAD & BUSTED COIL PACK. CONVERTER WAS GLOWING RED & POPPING. *NM
Vehicle speed control, Jan 18, 2007
REPORTED SAME ISSUE TO THE NHTSA ON FEB 1, 2005...ON JANUARY 12, 2007, MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING OUR EXPLORER TO WORK. HE ACCIDENTALLY BUMPED THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE CAR BEGAN ACCELERATING RAPIDLY. HE WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND PULL TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT INCIDENT AND TURN THE VEHICLE OFF, BUT HE WAS UNABLE TO START IT UP AGAIN, THE BATTERY WAS DRAINED. A FRIEND OF OURS CAME AND GAVE HIM A JUMP START, THE CAR TURNED ON BUT THE ENGINE WAS REVVING AND HE COULDN'T GET IT TO STOP. THEY CAR WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THEY FOUND THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE WAS STUCK INTERNALLY WHICH WAS CAUSING THE CRUISE CONTROL TO STICK AND MADE THE CAR ACCELERATE ON IT'S OWN. THEY DISCONNECTED THE CABLE FROM THE THROTTLE BODY TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. I CONTACTED FORD AND SPOKE TO A REP NAMED FRANKIE AND FILED YET ANOTHER COMPLAINT, BUT THEY DON'T WANT TO HELP US OUT AT ALL. THEY WANT US TO TAKE THE CAR TO A DEALER AND PAY FOR THEM TO INSPECT THE CAR. *NM
Seats, Jan 10, 2007
WE TOOK OUR 2000 FORD EXPLORER INTO SANTA MARGARITA FORD FOR MAINTENANCE. WE WERE TOLD THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SUBJECT TO RECALL 03S04, REPLACEMENT OF A SEAT BOLT. THE DEALER REQUESTED AUTHORIZATION FROM FORD TO DO THE REPAIRS. FORD SAID THAT THEY WOULD NOT PAY FOR REPAIRS. THE DEALER SAID THAT THERE WAS APPARENTLY SOMEE DAMAGE TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT. I CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND ALL THEY OFFERED WAS TO PAY $100. I WAS UNABLE TO SPEAK WITH ANY INDIVIDUAL WHO MADE THE DECISION TO NOT COMPLETELY PAY FOR THE NEEDED REPAIRS. $100 IS UNACCEPTABLE; I EXPECT FORD TO PAY FOR ANY AND ALL REPAIRS. *JB
Electrical system, Jan 9, 2007
2000 FORD EXPLORER. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHEN USING THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL, A LARGE PUFF OF SMOKE CAN BE SEEN COMING FROM STEERING COLUMN. NOW, WHEN USING THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL ALL OF THE ENTIRE REAR LIGHTS FLASH ALONG WITH THE BLINKER. THE SMOKE INSTANCES ARE OCCASIONAL, BUT THE BLINKER PROBLEM IS CONTINUOUS NOW. *JB
Vehicle speed control, Dec 22, 2006, fire
MY CAR BREAK LIGHTS WERE NOT WORKING. I JUST SO HAPPENNED TO TELL MY UNCLE AND HE GOT WORRIED SINCE I HAVE A 1 YEAR OLD. WE WENT TO A CAR SHOP TO GO FIX IT. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS SIMPLY THE BREAK FUSE. WHEN THEY WENT TO REPLACE THE FUSE, THE CAR STARTED SMOKING TO THE POINT WHERE I COULD NOT EVEN SEE. I THOUGHT THE CAR WAS GOING TO EXPLODE SO I TOOK MY SON AND STARTED RUNNING. EVERYONE IN THE PARKING LOT STARTED RUNNING ALSO. THEY LIFTED THE HOOD, AND NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE CUT OFF SWITCH FOR CRUISE CONTROL WAS BURNING AND HE PUT IT OUT. THIS HAS BEEN A HUGE RECALL FOR MANY OTHER YEARS FOR FORD, BUT NOT FOR MINE. NOW FORD WANTS TO CHARGE ME BECAUSE MY VEHICLES YEAR IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THIS IS A MANUFACTURER ERROR AND IT IS WRONG FOR ME TO HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS MYSELF. IF MY SON AND I WOULD HAVE DIED, FORD WOULD BE LOOKING AT A MAJOR LAWSUIT. I AM WILLING TO TAKE THIS AS FAR AS I HAVE TO BECAUSE I HONESTLY BELIEVE FORD IS TRYING TO GET AWAY WITH THIS. THIS WAS A VERY FRIGHTENING INCIDENCE. *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE RATTLED AND THE VEHICLE NEEDED THE ENGINE BOLTS TIGHTENED TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC BUT NOT A SERVICE DEALER.
Air bags, Nov 28, 2006, crash
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING 58 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR SIDE IMPACT COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND BOTH FRONT AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES MADE MOSTLY BY THE SEATBELT THAT WAS WORN DURING THIS ACCIDENT. THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS NOT ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. THE CONTACT TOOK PICTURES, AND NO POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS CURRENTLY AT AN INDEPENDENT BODY SHOP FOR FURTHER EXAMINATION AND REPAIRS. NO REPAIRS HAD CURRENTLY BEEN MADE.
Engine and engine cooling, Vehicle speed control, Nov 16, 2006, fire
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN FRONT OF THE RESIDENCE, A NOISE WAS HEARD, THEN FIRE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WHO EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND REPORTED THE FIRE AS ELECTRICAL FAILURE FROM THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM. THE CONTACT TOOK PICTURES OF THE CHARRED VEHICLE. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DEEMED THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED BUT NEVER RETURNED THE CALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO CONTACTED WHO INFORMED HER THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALL PERTAINING TO THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM DUE TO THE VIN. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD NOT DETERMINED WHAT CAUSED THE FIRE, HOWEVER, THE CONSUMER HAD READ ABOUT REPORTS WHERE VEHICLE WERE CATCHING ON FIRE DUE TO FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL SWITCHES. UPDATED 12/13/06. *JB UPDATED 04/03/07. *JB
Structure, Latches/locks/linkages, Oct 23, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR DRIVER SIDE DOOR HANDLE HAD TO BE LIFTED UP HIGHER THAN NORMAL TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE. THE DOOR WAS INOPERABLE FROM THE OUTSIDE. AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP DETERMINED THE DOOR HANDLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
Power train, Oct 19, 2006
2000 FORD EXPLORER WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY (PARKED- KEYS OUT AND IN MY POCKET) IT BEGAN ROLLING BACKWARD. I WAS ABLE TO JUMP IN AND DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL JUST BEFORE IT WOULD HAVE ROLLED OF THE HILL AND INTO THE STREET. THEN IT DID THE SAME THING AGAIN THE NEXT DAY. *NM
Suspension, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Air bags, Structure, Tires, Oct 17, 2006
CONSUMER LEFT FRONT TIRE BLEWOUT AND SHREDDED CAUSING CONSUMER TO REPLACE TIRE WITH SPARE. *TS THE TIRE BLEWOUT PRIOR TO THE CONSUMER RECEIVING THE RECALL NOTICE. THE AIR BAG LIGHT AND DOOR AJAR LIGHT ILLUMINATED. LEFT SIDE WHEEL BEARING SHOT AND THE RIGHT SIDE WAS GOING BAD. REAR BRAKES SHOT. *NM
Latches/locks/linkages, Oct 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH, AND THE FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER DOORS KEPT JAMMING CLOSED. EACH DOOR REQUIRED EXCESSIVE FORCE TO OPEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE REPAIR SHOP, WHO DETERMINED THE LATCHES WERE FAULTY, AND THE PARTS WERE ORDERED. UPDATED 11/21/2006 - *NM
Tires, Oct 9, 2006
I WAS NOT CONTACTED TO THE RECALL ON MY FIRESTONE TIRES ON MY 2000 FORD EXPLORER, UNTIL LAST WEEK, AND TOOK IT UPON MYSELF TO, AT MY EXPENSE, AND REPLACED SAID TIRES, WITH ANOTHER, MORE TRUSTED AND SAFER BRAND OF TIRE. NOW AFTER 6 YEARS. I RECEIVE A NOTICE FROM FIRESTONE ABOUT MY SPARE, BUT WITH THE CONDITION THAT I DRIVE 30 MILES, AND HAVE THE 1 TIRE REPLACED WITH ANOTHER FIRESTONE TIRE. FIRESTONE REFUSED TO REPLACE MY ORIGINAL 4 TIRES, WITH COMPENSATION, AND NOW REFUSES TO REPLACE MY SPARE WITH A TIRE THAT I AM COMFORTABLE WITH........NOT A FIRESTONE! I FEEL THEY SHOULD COMPENSATE ME MY $350, ORIGINAL, AS WELL AS PAY FOR ANY TIRE I CHOOSE AS MY SPARE.....WHICH THEY REFUSE TO DO!!!!*JB
Electrical system, Sep 26, 2006, fire
I WAS DRIVING, COMING JUST OFF THE HIGHWAY IN MY 2000 FORD EXPLORER AND THERE WERE PUFFS OF SMOKE COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. I RESEARCHED SOME OF THE RECALLS AT FORD AND THIS PROBLEM WAS RECALLED ON SOME OTHER VEHICLES OF THE SAME MODEL, BUT NOT MY VIN #. THE RECALL WAS FOR THE MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH IN THE STEERING COLUMN. NO REPLACEMENT PARTS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED, I WILL BRING TO DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. *NM
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 5, 2006
OVER THE PAST THREE TO FOUR MONTHS MY 2000 FORD EXPLORER (6 CYLINDER W/ SOHC ENGINE) HAS DEVELOPED A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE. THE PROBLEM OCCURS ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. AT TIMES THE ENGINE WILL NOT START. WHEN IT DOES START IT WILL NOT IDLE AND DIES UNLESS THE RPM'S ARE MANUALLY HELD AT A HIGH ENOUGH LEVEL TO ALLOW THE ENGINE TO RUN. WHEN BRAKING AT ANY SPEED THE ENGINE WILL DIE WHEN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTS FROM A HIGHER GEAR TO A LOWER GEAR ALLOWING THE RPM'S TO FALL BETWEEN SHIFTS. THIS REQUIRES SHIFTING THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL TO RE-START WITH A LOSS OF ALL POWER STEERING AND BRAKING FUNCTIONS. A FIRST IT SEEMED THE PROBLEM ONLY OCCURRED AFTER THE CAR WAS PARKED OUTSIDE DURING HOT DAYS. NOW THE PROBLEM OCCURS AT DIFFERENT TIMES AND DIFFERENT WEATHER CONDITIONS. THE CAR RECENTLY HAD THE FUEL SYSTEM SERVICED (ALONG WITH THE 65K RECOMMENDED SERVICE PACKAGE) AT A LOCAL FORD DEALER. THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. I WROTE TO CONSUMER REPORTS MAGAZINE AND THEY SUGGESTED I FORWARD THIS INFORMATION. *B
Visibility, Electrical system, Sep 1, 2006
I HAVE A FORD 2000 EXPLORER XLT. THE REAR WIPER WORKS WHEN IT WANTS TO USUALLY WHEN I DON'T NEED IT AND I AM ON THE SECOND MOTOR FOR IT. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON FOR THREE OR FOUR DAYS THEN GOES OUT FOR ONE OR TWO THEN BACK ON. I HAVE LOST ALL FAITH IN FORD. AT TIMES IT WILL SHUT OFF WHEN I AM DRIVING AND IT STARTS RIGHT BACK UP, BUT WON'T IDLE FOR ABOUT 2 DAYS AFTER THAT. I'VE HAD IT WITH FORD NO WONDER THEIR HAVING PROBLEMS SELLING THEIR AUTO'S. I AM ABOUT TO TRADE THE VEHICLE AND IT SURE WON'T BE FOR ANOTHER FORD. *JB
Seats, Aug 31, 2006, crash
(1) BACKING UP. WE ACCIDENTALLY HIT A POLE IN A PARKING LOT. (2) DRIVERS SEAT BACK SLIPPED BACKWARDS AND WILL NOT STAY IN POSITION NOW...KEEPS SLIPPING BACKWARDS WITH MINIMAL PRESSURE ON IT...CANNOT LEAN ON IT FULLY (3)WILL HAVE TO BE DISASSEMBLED AND REPAIRED..NOT SURE WHAT YET. *NM
Air bags, Aug 30, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED CONSTANTLY, AND WHEN THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR WAS SHUT AND THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE AIR BAG STRUCK THE PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE, CAUSING BRUISES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR SERVICE.
Latches/locks/linkages, Aug 17, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS THE DOOR LOCKS FAILED TO OPEN. THE FIRST WAS THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR PASSENGER DOOR FOLLOWED BY THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE AND NOW THE FRONT DRIVER DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER EACH TIME AND THE LATCH ASSEMBLIES WERE REPLACED. UPDATED 10/25/2006 - THE TECHNICIAN TOLD THE CONSUMER THAT THIS WAS A KNOW PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL/YEAR VEHICLE AND THAT THE PROBLEM IS CAUSED BY A DEFECT IN THE DOOR LATCHES. ONE OF THE PIECES IS MADE OF A TYPE OF PLASTIC WHICH IS NOT STRONG ENOUGH. *NM