2013 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 2,234 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 3rd highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 44 involved a crash and 11 involved a fire. 61 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, body, roof and pillarsJan 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.
A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 24V031000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearSep 22, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 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. These vehicles may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part that could seize, and result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealer will inspect for the presence of a CABJ. If a CABJ of any design is found, the dealer will inspect the tightness of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S43.
Campaign 21V746000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearJul 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.
A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 21V537000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearMar 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.
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 20V675000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearJun 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.
A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
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.
Campaign 19V435000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, hubAug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.
A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify the distributors of the hubs specifying that they are to only be used on drive axles. It is believed that none of the hubs were purchased from Ford dealers for the incorrect application. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 17E048000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasolineDec 2, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 13S04-S1.
Campaign 15V812000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, body, doorMar 24, 2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.
If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S11.
Campaign 15V171000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, electric power assist systemMay 29, 2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can cause a loss of the motor position sensor signal resulting in a shut down of the power steering assist.
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of motor position sensor signal when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, its steering rack assembly will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S06.
Campaign 14V286000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkagesJun 26, 2013
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Ford Explorer, Taurus, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured November 29, 2012, through December 12, 2012. In the affected vehicles, with sufficient door openings and closings, the child safety locks may change from an activated position to a deactivated position without notice.
If the child lock is deactivated, the door could be unlocked and opened from the inside which could lead to personal injury to an unrestrained child.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the safety locks. If necessary, the locks will be replaced free of charge. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Ford's recall number is 13S07. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 13V270000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasolineMay 31, 2013
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S04.
Campaign 13V227000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storage, tank assemblyMar 27, 2013
Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and model year 2013 Explorer vehicles manufactured July 19, 2011, through March 15, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank. As a result, the fuel tanks may not provide the expected strength in the event of an impact. The tanks may also leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 9, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 13V109000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
290 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Aug 3, 2014
WHILE ENGAGING PASSING GEAR AT ROAD SPEEDS, CABIN FILLED WITH EXHAUST FUMES. THIS HAS CONTINUED FROM THAT TIME UNTIL PRESENT. VEHICLE HOW HAS 33000 MILES. VEHICLE HAS BEEN TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER - [XXX] - ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS WITH NO RESULTS IN STOPPING THE PROBLEM. THE LAST VISIT AFTER KEEPING OUR VEHICLE FOR 1.5 WEEKS , WE WERE TOLD THAT FORD COULD NOT REPAIR THE PROBLEM AND THAT THE FACTORY WOULD TAKE THE VEHICLE UNDER ADVISEMENT - WHATEVER THAT MEANS. MEANWHILE THE PROBLEM CONTINUES TO WORSEN WHILE EXHAUST FUMES NOW ENTER THE VEHICLE AT ALL STAGES OF OPERATION. WE HAVE BEEN ADVISED BY SEVERAL MECHANICS AND OTHER DEALERS NO TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH OUR GRAND BABIES. THIS HAS BECOME A SERIOUS HEALTH CONCERN FOR OUR FAMILY AS THIS IS MY WIFE'S ONLY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION. SHE FREQUENTLY SUFFERS HEADACHES AFTER TRIPS IN THE VEHICLE TO NEIGHBORING CITIES TO SHOP!! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Engine, Jul 25, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THERE WAS A ODOR OF EXHAUST FUMES COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 11, 2014
THE VEHICLES AC SYSTEM FLOODS THE INTERIOR CABIN WITH AN OVERWHELMING EXHAUST SMELL DURING HARD ACCELERATION OR ANYTIME THE ENGINE EXCEEDS 3500 RPM AS IN CLIMBING A MOUNTAIN ROAD ETC. DEALER HAS PERFORMED FORD TECHNICAL BULLETIN HOWEVER THE PROBLEM WAS NOT FIXED. FORD TOLD ME THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND TO "CHECK BACK" IN A COUPLE OF MONTHS TO SEE IF THE ENGINEERS HAVE FOUND A FIX. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jul 9, 2014
I PURCHASED A NEW 2013 FORD EXPLORER. I OFTEN DRIVE WITH MY DOG IN THE REAR SEATS. PRIOR TO MY EXPLORER, MY DOG NEVER GOT SICK WHEN BEING DRIVEN. SINCE BUYING MY EXPLORER, MY DOG HAS OFTEN GOTTEN SICK, INCLUDING VOMITING, WHILE BEING DRIVEN THE CAR. I HAD MAY CAR TESTED, AND CARBON MONOXIDE WAS FOUND INSIDE MY CAR WITH THE ENGINE ON BUT THE CAR IDLE. THERE WAS A HIGHER LEVEL OF CARBON MONOXIDE IN THE BACK OF THE CAR THAN IN THE FRONT. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jul 9, 2014
I BOUGHT A 2013 FORD EXPLORER IN MARCH OF 2012. I ALMOST IMMEDIATELY BEGAN SMELLING EXHAUST INSIDE THE CAR. THE SMELL WAS WORST WHEN I HIT THE ACCELERATOR GETTING ONTO THE HIGHWAY OR OTHER TIMES WHEN I QUICKLY INCREASED THE ACCELERATION OF THE VEHICLE. I BROUGHT MY EXPLORER INTO THE FORD DEALERSHIP ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE DEALERSHIP VERIFIED MY COMPLAINT AND PERFORMED FORD'S TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 12-12-4. THAT DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. I CONTINUED TO SMELL EXHAUST INSIDE THE CAR. THE DEALER ASSURED ME THERE WAS NO SAFETY CONCERN, AND THAT THERE WAS NO CARBON MONOXIDE GETTING INTO THE VEHICLE. WE LATER TESTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND HARMFUL LEVELS OF CARBON MONOXIDE GETTING INSIDE THE VEHICLE, BOTH WHILE BEING DRIVEN AND WHEN IDLE. THE LEVELS WERE HIGHER WHEN THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN. AFTER LONG DRIVES, MY CHILDREN HAVE BEEN ILL AND SUFFERED HEADACHE, WHICH WAS PROBABLY CAUSED BY EXPOSURE TO CARBON MONOXIDE. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Other or unspecified, Jul 7, 2014
WHEN ACCELERATING A STONG EXHAUST SMELL IS PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE CABIN. THIS IS MOST PRONOUNCED DURING A LONG ACCELERATION I.E. WHEN ENTERING A HIGHWAY. FOLLOWING A PERIOD OF ACCELERATION WE NEED TO OPEN THE WINDOWS TO PURGE THE EXHAUST FROM THE CABIN. THIS IS REGARDLESS OF THE HEATING/COOLING SYSTEM BEING ON OR OFF, OR IF THE RECIRCULATION FEATURE IS ENABLED. THE DEALERSHIP IMPLEMENTED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN FOR THIS CONDITION AND IT HAD NO IMPROVEMENT. *JS
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 2, 2014
EXHAUST SMELL, OR ACRID BURNING SMELL IN CABIN OFF AND ON SINCE NEW, AND ESPECIALLY DURING HIGHER SPEED ACCELERATION... SUSPECT EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING CABIN... *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jun 30, 2014
HORRIBLE EXHAUST FUMES SMELL INSIDE CABIN OF VEHICLE AFTER MODERATE ACCELERATION THAT LINGERS UNTIL WINDOWS ARE ROLLED DOWN. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jun 29, 2014
UNDER MEDIUM TO HARD ACCELERATION A STRONG SULFUR SMELL ENTERS THE CABIN THROUGH THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS AND IT SMELLS VERY BAD. FAMILY OF FOUR AND CONCERNED ABOUT WHAT WE ARE ALL BREATHING IN. CONTACTED FORD AND THEY HAVE CONFIRMED IT AND THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND WHERE IT IS COMING FROM AND REFUSED TO FIX IT. THIS IS THE ONLY CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN WHERE THERE IS THIS TYPE OF SMELL COMING FROM AC UNDER ACCELERATION. SMELL COMES THROUGH FOR ABOUT 30 SECONDS AND THEN STOPS. STINKS UP THE CAR UNTIL WE ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS TO GET THE BAD AIR OUT. EMBARRASSING WHEN WE HAVE OTHER PEOPLE IN THE CAR. I KNOW I AM NOT THE ONLY PERSON EXPERIENCING THIS PROBLEM. IT IS WELL DOCUMENTED IN NUMEROUS CHAT FORUMS AND WEBSITES ALL OVER THE WWW. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE IS ACCELERATED HARD SINCE WE HAVE OWNED IT.(HUNDREDS OF TIMES). *TR
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jun 27, 2014
THE VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS HAD A ISSUE WITH THE CABIN FILLING WITH EXHAUST FUMES WHEN UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION. MERGING ONTO A HIGHWAY ETC WITH THE ENGINE ABOVE 3500 RPM'S WILL FILL THE CABIN WITH A BURNING EXHAUST SMELL. THIS HAS BEEN HIGHLY EXPOSED ON THE EXPLORER FORUMS ONLINE. MANY USERS ARE EXPERIENCING IT, THE TSB FOR HAS FOR THE SMELL DOES NOT WORK. IF I RIDE IN THE CAR TOO LONG IN HEAVY HIGHWAY TRAFFIC WHERE I AM ACCELERATING AND DECELERATING A LOT IT MAKES ME AND MY FAMILY SICK FROM THE SMELL. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Jun 26, 2014
UPON MODERATE OR HARD ACCELERATION, A STRONG BURNT OR EXHAUST SMELL ENTERS THE CABIN. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jun 25, 2014
DURING STOP AND GO CONDITIONS THE VEHICLE EXHAUST FUMES WITH ENTER THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE AND BEING TO MAKE THE OCCUPANTS FEEL ILL. BROUGHT THIS ISSUE TO A FORD SERVICE DEALER, WHICH CONFIRMED THIS WAS EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE VEHICLE. THERE HAS NOT BEEN A SOLUTION FROM THE MANUFACTURER YET. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Jun 22, 2014
EVERY TIME I GIVE AN 'OPEN THROTTLE', OR HARD ACCELERATION ON MY VEHICLE THERE IS A FOUL SMELL THAT ENTERS THE CABIN VIA THE AIR CONDITION VENTS. I HAD THE ISSUE LOOKED INTO BY MY FORD DEALER AFTER THE PROBLEM STARTED. THE DEALER ACTED LIKE THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THE COMPLAINT BUT AFTER READING VARIOUS THREADS ON THE INTERNET IT APPEARS A LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE HAVE HAD THE SAME ISSUE. AFTER SOME RESEARCH I'VE LEARNED THAT THE SMELL IS ACTUALLY EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE CABIN. FORD ACKNOWLEDGES THE ISSUE BUT STATES THE AMOUNT OF EXHAUST FUMES ARE NOT ENOUGH TO BECOME TOXIC. I AM VERY CONCERNED OF THIS ISSUE AND FORD NEEDS TO FIX THE PROBLEM. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 21, 2014
THIS HAPPENS VIRTUALLY EVERY TIME I ENTER A HIGHWAY. EXHAUST SMELL LEAKS INTO THE CABIN FROM WHAT SEEMS TO BE THE REAR EXHAUST. I HAVE TAKEN MY TRUCK IN MANY TIMES BUT FORD DEALERS CANNOT SEEM TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE. THE ONLY WAY FOR ME TO CLEAR THE SMELL AND FUMES IS ROLL THE WINDOWS DOWN AND AIR OUT THE TRUCK. PLEASE SEE THE FORD FORUMS FOR OTHER OWNERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE: HTTP://WWW.EXPLORERFORUM.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=323597. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Jun 21, 2014
I HAVE A 2013 FORD EXPLORER SPORT WITH APPROXIMATELY 8500 MILES. THE INTERIOR CABIN OFTEN FILLS WITH EXHAUST FUMES. MANY OCCURRENCE OVER SEVERAL MONTHS WHETHER AC RUNNING WITH FRESH OR RECIRCULATING AIR. I CALLED THE DEALER AND THEY WERE UNAWARE OF ANY ISSUES WITH THIS PROBLEM. OF COURSE I WILL TAKE THE VEHICLE TO DEALER BUT BASED ON OTHER COMPLAINTS, I HAVE REVIEWED I DON'T EXPECT MUCH WILL BE DONE UNLESS FORD MOTOR CO TAKES A DEEPER LOOK TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Equipment adaptive/mobility, Engine, Jun 21, 2014
THERE IS A FOUL SMELL IN THE VEHICLE, MAYBE BURNING PLASTIC ON THE VEHICLE OR EXHAUST. THE FUMES GETS INSIDE THE VEHICLE THAT CAN MAKE IT UNBEARABLE WHEN YOU HAVE THE AC ON. YOU CAN NOT STAY IN THE CAR. THE AC HAS TO BE TURN OFF AND ALL WINDOWS OPEN IN ORDER TO CONTINUE DRIVING. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE, LAST YEAR. THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE INFORMED ME THAT IT WAS A PLASTIC BAG THAT GOT STUCK IN THE EXHAUST. ONCE ITS BURNED OFF THE SMELL WILL BE GONE. HOWEVER. IT DOES NOT SEEM TO BE THE CASE. THE FOUL SMELL IS GETTING WORSE THAT ITS UNBEARABLE TO STAY IN THE VEHICLE WITH THE AC ON. *TR
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, May 15, 2014
THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THAT THE CAR FELT LIKE IT WAS SPUTTERING AND RUNNING ROUGHLY. WHEN I CAME TO A STOP LIGHT, IT RAN REALLY ROUGH AND JUST DIED. IT STARTED BACK UP AND I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT HOME. NOT KNOWING IF THE PROBLEM WAS JUST A FLUKE OR NOT, I DROVE IT THE NEXT DAY. AFTER HAVING GONE ABOUT 8 MILES, IT DID THE SAME THING AGAIN. THE ENGINE RUNS ROUGH AND THEN JUST DIES. IT ALSO HAPPENED TO MY HUSBAND AS HE LEFT OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. IT STARTED TO DIE ON HIM BUT HE PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND GAVE IT GAS. HE TOOK IT TO THE LOCAL LINCOLN MERCURY (BAYWAY) ON GULF FREEWAY IN HOUSTON, TX. THEY KEPT IT FOR ALMOST 3 DAYS, COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG AND ONE OF THE SERVICE MANAGERS DROVE IT THE LAST DAY AND IT NEVER HAPPENED TO HIM SO PROBLEM WAS NOT FOUND. TODAY AS I WAS TRAVELING DOWN THE GULF FREEWAY (I-45) SERVICE ROAD I SLOWED DOWN FOR A LIGHT, THE CAR SPUTTERED AND DIED WHILE SITTING AT THE LIGHT. THE CAR WAS HARD TO START UP AND I WAS ABLE TO GET IT GOING AND TRYING TO DRIVE IT TO MCREE FORD WHERE I BOUGHT IT LAST SUMMER. IT STALLED AND I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. LAST WEEK WHEN I WAS DRIVING AROUND IN IT, THE WHOLE A/C SYSTEM TURNED OFF AND IT STARTED BLOWING HOT AIR. ALL THE A/C LIGHTS HAD GONE OUT. DON'T KNOW IF THAT WAS PART OF A PROBLEM OR NOT. *TR
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Apr 19, 2014
I HAVE A 2013 FORD EXPLORER ECOBOOST. TODAY (APRIL 19, 2014), I WAS ON HIGHWAY 280 SOUTH HEADING TOWARDS SAN JOSE AND MY CAR DECELERATED TWICE. 1. THE FIRST TIME I NOTICED THE DECELERATION, I PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND TURNED THE IGNITION OFF. I DID NOT SEE ANY WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD AND THE FUEL INDICATOR WAS NORMAL, MEANING IT WAS ABOVE THE RESERVE LINE. I STARTED THE IGNITION, LEFT THE GEAR LEVER IN NEUTRAL AND PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FOR A FEW SECONDS, IT SEEMED NORMAL. I MOVED ONTO THE HIGHWAY AND RESUMED DRIVING. 2. AFTER ABOUT 2 MILES, THE CAR DECELERATED AGAIN, THIS TIME, I WAS AFRAID IT MIGHT STALL AND PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER. AGAIN, I DID NOT SEE ANY WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD AND THE FUEL INDICATOR WAS NORMAL, MEANING IT WAS ABOVE THE RESERVE LINE. I STARTED THE IGNITION, LEFT THE GEAR LEVER IN NEUTRAL AND PRESSED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FOR A FEW SECONDS, IT SEEMED NORMAL. I MOVED ONTO THE HIGHWAY AND RESUMED DRIVING. AFTER ABOUT 1 MILE, THE FUEL INDICATOR POPPED UP THE MESSAGE THAT THE CAR REACHED RESERVE STAGE. THEN THE CAR WORKED FINE FOR THE NEXT 4 MILES. THIS IS A SERIOUS TECHNICAL ISSUE. IF THE CAR DECELERATES SUDDENLY WITHOUT WARNING, IT CAN CAUSE ISSUES FOR DRIVERS. *TR
Structure, Engine, Mar 18, 2014
EXHAUST ENTERS THE VEHICLE CABIN ANY TIME THE ENGINE IS OPERATED AT HIGHER RPMS, SUCH AS CLIMBING A LONG HILL OR TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND PASSING OTHER TRAFFIC. THE PROBLEM APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN PRESENT SINCE PURCHASING THE VEHICLE (NEW), BUT WE INITIALLY THOUGHT THE ODOR WAS COMING FROM SURROUNDING VEHICLES. WE SHORTLY DISCOVERED THAT THE EXHAUST ODOR OCCURRED WITHOUT THE PRESENCE OF ANY OTHER TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE FORD DEALER WHO CONTACTED FORD ENGINEERING FOR A FIX. THE "FIX" DIDN'T HELP. I CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND ESTABLISHED A "CASE" IN AUGUST, 2013, AND WAS PROMISED THE PROBLEM WOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF. FORD TOLD US TO OPERATE THE VENTILATION SYSTEM IN THE RECIRCULATION MODE UNTIL THE PROBLEM WAS SOLVED. THIS ONLY AMPLIFIED THE ODOR BECAUSE THE EXHAUST STILL ENTERED BUT WAS THEN TRAPPED IN THE CABIN. AT FORD'S DIRECTION THE CAR WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT SAT FOR 3 WEEKS BUT WAS NOT TOUCHED. THE DEALER THEN CALLED AND ASKED US TO COME GET THE CAR BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO FIX IT. SINCE THEN, DESPITE MY CONTINUING EFFORTS, I HAVE BEEN REPEATEDLY STALLED AND TOLD "WE'RE WORKING ON IT". THE ODOR IS PRESENT YEAR ROUND BUT SEEMS TO BE STRONGER IN WARMER WEATHER. *TR
Engine, Mar 10, 2014
WHILE WAITING IN LINE AT THE LOCAL CAR WASH THE ENGINE IN MY 2013 FORD EXPLORER SPORT BEGAN TO REV UP, THEN LOST POWER AND BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY BEFORE THE ENGINE STALLED COMPLETELY. NO WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED AND NO VISIBLE INDICATIONS OR WARNINGS WERE DISPLAYED TO GIVE ANY INDICATION AS TO WHAT THE PROBLEM MIGHT BE. SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO RESTART THE ENGINE FAILED AND I HAD TO PUSH THE VEHICLE OUT OF LINE AND INTO AN ADJACENT PARKING LOT. WHEN I TRIED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE ONCE TOW TRUCK ARRIVED TO TOW THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED THE TRUCK IT STARTED UP AS IF NOTHING HAD HAPPENED. *TR
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Feb 13, 2014
WHEN I ACCELERATE FAST, THE EXHAUST ENTERS THE VEHICLE FROM THE AC UNIT. MY CAR WAS IN 3 TIMES BEFORE THE PRESCRIBED TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (12-12-4) WAS PERFORMED, WHICH BY THE WAY DOES NOT FIX THE ISSUE. CANT EVEN IMAGINE HOOKING UP OUR BOAT TO THIS VEHICLE AS IT WILL PROBABLY KILL US WITH CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. MY 10 YEAR OLD SON HAS HAD BRONCHITIS 4 TIMES SINCE WE HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE.. HMMM POSSIBLY RELATED!! IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE A CHILD THAT IS STRAPPED INTO HIS SEAT DIES OF C.M. POISONING! THE SMELL IS EXTREMELY WORSE IN THE BACK SEAT, NEVERMIND SITTING IN THE 3RD ROW! YOU WOULD PROBABLY DIE A SILENT DEATH RATHER QUICKLY!! AND THE WORST PART OF ALL... FORD'S CEO [XXX] AND FORD AS A WHOLE IS VERY AWARE OF THIS ISSUE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 31, 2013
WHEN ACCELERATING, WITH ENGINE RPMS RISING ABOVE 3500 RPM EXHAUST FUMES BEGIN TO ENTER THE CABIN THROUGH THE AC DUCTS. ODOR IS PRESENT REGARDLESS OF VENTILATION MODE (RECIRCULATION OR FRESH-AIR). ALL ATTEMPTS AT REPAIR, INCLUDING OFFICIAL TSB BULLETIN PUBLISHED BY THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY (TSB 12-12-4) AND INSPECTION BY FIELD SERVICE ENGINEER, BY FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE CENTER PERSONNEL HAVE FAILED. HERE IS A PART OF A RESPONSE FROM FORD TO MY SERVICE TECHNICIAN ON 10/10/2013 THIS CONCERN IS CURRENTLY UNDER INVESTIGATION. WHEN A RESOLUTION IS AVAILABLE, THE DEALER WILL BE NOTIFIED WITH A TSB, SSM, FSA, OR BROADCAST MESSAGE." I THINK THIS PROBLEM EXISTS IN EVERY FORD EXPLORER MANUFACTURED SINCE 2011 TO PRESENT BUT CONSUMERS EITHER DON'T KNOW IT IS HAPPENING OR THEY DON'T KNOW TO TAKE IT TO FORD. OTHERS WITH THE SAME COMPLAINT ON THIS WEBSITE: 2011-10545178, 10537052, 10485394, 2012- 10466807, 10458341, 2013 - 10548667, 10547404, 10545106, 10534074, 10531802, 10522939, 10511749, 10503135, 10497684, 10493493, 10472937, 2014 ' 10536610 (SO FAR). ONE CASE (10521718) EVEN HAD TO BE TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL BECAUSE OF THE CARBON MONOXIDE. PAGE 206 OF MY OWNERS MANUAL STATES 'WARNING: IF YOU SMELL EXHAUST FUMES INSIDE YOUR VEHICLE, HAVE THIS CHECKED IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE IF YOU SMELL EXHAUST FUMES. CARBON MONOXIDE IS PRESENT IN EXHAUST FUMES. TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID ITS DANGEROUS EFFECTS.' FORD WON'T DO THE RIGHT THING AND BUY THIS VEHICLE BACK FROM ME AND BECAUSE I BOUGHT THE CAR CERTIFIED PREOWNED FROM FORD, WHEN IT WAS ONLY 6 MONTHS OLD AND 16000 MILES, I CAN'T LEMON LAW THE VEHICLE IN FL. I HAVE A DEAD VEHICLE THAT I CAN'T DRIVE BECAUSE I WON'T RISK MINE OR MY FAMILY'S HEALTH, SO I'M AT MY WITS END. *TR
Power train, Engine, Oct 21, 2013
UNDER HEAVY ACCELERATION EXHAUST FUMES ENTER THE CABIN. THIS IS WELL DOCUMENTED ON THE FORD EXPLORER FORUMS. HTTP://WWW.EXPLORERFORUM.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=323597. A RECALL IS NEEDED OR THEY NEED TO BUY THESE BACK! *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Structure, Oct 9, 2013
AFTER ALL THE NEW CAR SMELLS BEGAN TO WEAR OFF WE BEGAN TO NOTICE WHAT SEEMED TO BE EXHAUST FUMES WHEN WE WERE DRIVING UP HILLS. WE SOON NOTICED THAT IT HAPPENED ANYTIME UPON HARD ACCELERATION. THE SMELL IS ENOUGH TO MAKE YOUR EYES BURN AND WATER FROM UP IN THE DRIVER SEAT. WE THOUGHT MAYBE IT WAS COMING FROM THE REAR BUT TRIED IN ALL POSITIONS AND OFF AND STILL HAVE IT. THE FORD FIX WITH THE NEW VENT, SEALANT, ETC. WAS DONE AND HAD NO EFFECT ON IT. IT WAS BROUGHT BACK INTO THE DEALERSHIP A SECOND TIME AND THE OPPOSITE VENT WAS REPLACED, STILL NO CHANGE. WE BROUGHT IT BACK INTO THE DEALERSHIP A THIRD TIME AND IT WAS CHECKED FOR IMPROPER BODY SEALS AND WEATHER STRIPS WITH NOTHING FOUND. WE ARE NOW TOLD WE HAVE TO JUST WAIT AND SEE IF FORD COMES UP WITH A FIX. *TR
Engine, Sep 24, 2013
WHEN ACCELERATING, WITH ENGINE RPMS RISING ABOVE ~3500 RPM, A NOXIOUS SULFUR-LIKE ODOR IS ADMITTED INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN THROUGH THE CLIMATE CONTROL VENTS. THE ODOR OCCURS DURING ACCELERATION OR WHENEVER ENGINE SPEED EXCEEDS 3500 RPM, AS WHEN ON A STEEP INCLINE. ODOR IS PRESENT REGARDLESS OF VENTILATION MODE (RECIRCULATION OR FRESH-AIR), AND TYPE OF FUEL USED (OCTANE RATINGS FROM 85 UP TO 91), OR WHERE FUEL WAS PURCHASED (INCLUDING SEVEN DIFFERENT STATES IN MULTIPLE CITIES). ALL ATTEMPTS AT REPAIR, INCLUDING OFFICIAL TSB BULLETIN PUBLISHED BY THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY (TSB 12-12-4), BY FORD DEALERSHIP SERVICE CENTER PERSONNEL HAVE FAILED. *JS