Owners filed 609 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the brakes. It has been recalled 11 times.
Avoid One of the Ford Explorer years to avoid: an unusual share of fires, crashes and deaths for a car of its age. Which Ford Explorer years to avoid →
When it fails
130000130,000 milesMedian miles at failure
34 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.
Most common 1991 Ford Explorer problems
109 of the 609 complaints (18%) are about the brakes.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Tires › Tread/Belt
48
9
0
15
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes
48
14
0
5
Tires
44
8
0
4
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration
18
5
0
2
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission
17
2
1
0
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline · engine
17
0
11
3
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
16
0
0
0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder · brakes
16
0
0
0
Equipment › Mechanical › Carrier/Rack
13
1
0
0
Unknown or Other
12
0
0
0
1991 Ford Explorer brakes problems
18% of all complaints
109 of the 609 complaints are about the brakes. This is what owners describe:
loses its brakes or the pedal sinks17% · 18
sets off warning lights on the dash7% · 8
leaks oil or fluid5% · 5
Share of the 109 brakes complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
“Consumer was traveling about 35mph on a side street and heard a jingle noise. He pulled over to shoulder, and looked all over the vehicle. When he applied brakes pedal went all the way to the floor, and vehicle swerved/ hit a tree stump, and rolled over. Vehicle was totaled. Manufacturer was notified. *ak”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 17, 2001
“Complete brake failure occurred when backing out of parking slot. Was able to stop vehicle with the parking brake. Failure of brake pipe, due to corrosion, just forward of rear axle. The two pipes from the junction block at the differential also badly corroded but not leaking. Changed these also as a precaution.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 24, 2001
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the brakesRecall (red: the brakes)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 1991 Explorer peaked in 1995, with 124 filed that year. Owners had filed 54 complaints about the brakes before the first recall that covers it, 96V024001 in February 1996; 55 more have come in since. In 2021 owners filed 1 so far.
Filed May 22, 200113,000,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. 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.
Risk. SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy. 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.
Filed Aug 21, 200014,400,000 vehiclesBridgestone/Firestone, Inc.
Defect. 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.
Risk. IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
Remedy. 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.
Filed Dec 18, 1997185,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FACTORY INSTALLED SUNROOF. THE SUNROOF GLASS PANEL ASSEMBLY CAN SEPARATE WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING DUE TO INCORRECT HINGE ENGAGEMENT. THIS WAS CAUSED BY IMPROPER SUNROOF INSTALLATION OF THE GLASS PANEL.
Risk. UNEXPECTED SEPARATION OF THE SUNROOF GLASS PANEL COULD POSSIBLY DISTRACT THE DRIVER INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH OR LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN INSTRUCTION BOOKLET WHICH THOROUGHLY OUTLINES, WITH ILLUSTRATIONS, THE PROPER PROCEDURES FOR THE REMOVAL, STORAGE, AND REINSTALLATION OF THE SUNROOF'S GLASS PANEL. A WARNING LABEL FOR ATTACHMENT TO THE SUNROOF'S LATCH KNOB WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED TO THE OWNERS.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Hydraulic96V024001
Filed Feb 5, 1996108,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. THE STUDS WHICH ATTACH THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE POWER BRAKE VACUUM BOOSTER ASSEMBLY CAN DEVELOP STRESS CORROSION CRACKING AFTER BEING OPERATED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME IN THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LOCATION.
Risk. IF A CRACK OCCURS, IT COULD RESULT IN ONE OR BOTH STUDS FRACTURING. THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD THEN SEPARATE FROM THE VACUUM BOOSTER, WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, PREVENTING THE SERVICE BRAKES FROM ACTIVATING INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER BRAKE VACUUM BOOSTER ASSEMBLY.
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Support Device/Strut95I007000
Filed Jan 31, 19961,029,380 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENTS OF THE REAR LIFTGATE GAS ASSIST CYLINDERS WHICH COULD PULL AWAY FROM THE INSIDE OF THE LIFTGATE.
Risk. IF A BRACKET AND GAS ASSIST CYLINDER WERE TO DETACH COMPLETELY FROM THE LIFTGATE AND NO LONGER BEAR AGAINST THE LIFTGATE AS INTENDED, THE REMAINING ASSIST CYLINDER WOULD NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE IN AN OPEN POSITION. PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR.
Remedy. FORD DEALERS WILL REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENTS.
Filed Aug 17, 1992565,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. THE RIGID MOUNTED SAFETY BELT BUCKLES ARE DEFECTIVE IN THREE WAYS. FIRST, A FASTENED SAFETY BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT UNLATCH WHEN THE RELEASE BUTTON IS DEPRESSED. THIS RESULTS FROM INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE BUCKLE EJECTOR FINGER AND THE BUCKLE TONGUE WINDOW. THE SECOND DEFECT IS THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MAY NOT LATCH. THE THIRD POSSIBLE DEFECT IS THAT THE TONGUE MAY BE RETAINED BY THE BUCKLE, BUT IT MAY NOT BE LATCHED SUFFICIENTLY TO PROVIDE OCCUPANT PROTECTION.
Risk. AN INSUFFICIENTLY LATCHED OR UNLATCHED SAFETY BELTINCREASES THE RISK OF INJURY TO SEAT OCCUPANTS IN THE EVENT OF A SUDDEN STOP ORACCIDENT. IF THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT UNLATCH, IT WILL NOT ALLOW THEOCCUPANT TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.
Remedy. FORD WILL REPLACE THE RIGID MOUNTED SAFETY BELT BUCKLES WITH END RELEASE SAFETY BELT BUCKLES DESIGNED TO PREVENT LATCH PROBLEMS.
Filed Nov 4, 1991792,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. WHEN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE PARK POSITION, THE PARK PAWL DOES NOT ALWAYS ABUT OR ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR.
Risk. DRIVER MAY BELIEVE THE VEHICLE IS SAFELY ENGAGED IN PARKWHEN THE GEAR IS NOT TRULY ENGAGED. THIS CAN LEAD TO THE VEHICLE JUMPING OUT OFGEAR UNINTENTIONALLY, VEHICLE ROLLAWAY WHEN PARKED ON A SLOPED SURFACE, ANDINADVERTENT MOTION WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED. ALL OF THESE CONDITIONS CANRESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy. REPAIR THE TRANSMISSION WITH A NEW PARK PAWL.
Filed Feb 12, 1991220,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. REAR BUMPER REINFORCEMENT MAY BE SUBJECT TO FATIGUE CRACKING UNDER EXTENDED TRAILER TOW SERVICE WHEN USING A BUMPER-MOUNTED TRAILER HITCH BALL.
Risk. UNDER EXTREME CONDITIONS, BUMPER COULD SEPARATE FROM THEVEHICLE WHEN USING A BUMPER MOUNTED TRAILER HITCH BALL.
Remedy. INSTALL TWO BRACKETS TO REINFORCE THE BUMPER.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly91V024000
Filed Feb 11, 199125,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. THE FRONT HEAT SHIELD MAY CONTACT THE FRONT OF THE PLASTIC FUEL TANK, CAUSING CUTS OR OTHER DAMAGE TO THE EXTENT OF PENETRATION.
Risk. THIS PENETRATION OF THE FUEL TANK CAUSES VAPORS TO ESCAPEAND POSSIBLY FUEL TO SPILL, WHICH COULD CATCH FIRE IN THE PRESENCE OF ANIGNITION SOURCE.
Remedy. RELOCATE THE HEAT SHIELD; INSPECT AND REPLACE DAMAGED FUEL FUEL TANKS.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly91V025000
Filed Feb 11, 199118,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. THE HOT PLATE WELD WHICH ATTACHES THE VAPOR VENT VALVE CARRIER TO THE TOP OF THE PLASTIC FUEL TANK MAY PARTIALLY FRACTURE, ALLOWING VAPOR OF FUEL TO ESCAPE FROM THE TOP OF THE TANK.
Risk. THE ESCAPED VAPOR OR LEAKED FUEL COULD CAUSE A FIRE INTHE PRESENCE OF A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
Remedy. FUEL TANK WILL BE REMOVED AND INSPECTED FOR WELD INTEGRITY. FUEL TANKS WITH INADEQUATE WELDS WILL BE REPLACED.
Filed May 21, 19902,500 vehiclesFord Motor Company
Defect. IF SUNROOF GLASS IS REMOVED AND REINSTALLED BY VEHICLE OPERATOR, HINGE ASSEMBLIES CAN BE ACCIDENTALLY IMPROPERLY MATED.
Risk. SUNROOF COULD DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE BEING DRIVEN,CREATING A RISK TO FOLLOWING VEHICLES OR PEOPLE IN THE VICINITY, OR TO VEHICLEOCCUPANTS IF THE GLASS SHOULD FALL INTO THE CABIN.
Remedy. INSTALL REVISED SUNROOF HINGES THAT WILL ADEQUATELY RETAIN SUNROOF ASSEMBLY.
All 11 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 17 name the 1991 Explorer.
Opened Nov 30, 1999Closed Apr 14, 2000body and frame
From the beginning of the 1991 model year production until the middle of the 1994 model year production, FORD used a galvanized steel cable to lift and hold in stored position, the explorer spare tire.on may 19, 1994, based on the results of FORD durability testing , FORD changed to a 4.00mm stainless steel cable.there have been over 100 incidents in which the original galvanized steel cable failed allowing the spare tire to drop from its rear storage well.one of these incidents caused a following vehicle to be involved in a collision and on six other occasions the wheel made contact with …
LIFTGATE SUPPORT BRACKET FAILURERecall query RQ99016Open
Opened Jul 29, 1999Led to recall 99V310001body and frame
Summary:on august 22, 1995, FORD conducted safety recall, 95v-164, on 1992 and 1993 model year explorer due to liftgate failures.the rear liftgate hydraulic cylinder bracket can become unattached allowing the liftgate to suddenly drop.the recall remedy was to install reinforcements on the brackets.FORD also initiated a safety improvement campaign in october 1995, for 1991-1995 model year explorer vehicles which were not included in the recall, to install reinforcements on those bracket that were found to be loose or detached.this campaign ended in october 1996. Since november 1996, odi has …
HEAVY LATERAL VIBRATIONDefect petition DP98001Closed
Opened Jan 6, 1998Closed Feb 4, 1998body and frame
Nhtsa was petitioned to commence a defect investigation of the subject vehicles on january 6, 1998.the petition alleges that early model FORD explorer sport utility vehicles develop heavy lateral vibrations at speeds above 55 MPH and when encountering bumps at low speeds.the petition further alleges that these vibrations could possibly cause loss of vehicle control.the analysis of the petition is presented in the attached notice which is published in the federal register.
PARKING PAWLRecall query RQ97015Closed
Opened Oct 29, 1997Closed Apr 1, 1999Led to recall 91V189000transmission
When the automatic shift lever is placed in the park position, the parking pawl does not always engage the park gear.this can lead to the vehicle jumping out of gear unintentionally and cause the vehicle to start rolling inadvertently
SUNROOF SHATTERING AND SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA97011Closed
Opened May 23, 1997Closed Jan 20, 1998Led to recall 97V235001body and frame
There is no summary currently available
SEPARATION OF MASTER CYLINDEREngineering analysis EA95018Closed
Opened Jun 19, 1995Closed Apr 2, 1996Led to recall 96V024001brakes
Ford continues to sudy the problem attempting to determine why stud fractures are not frequently occurring in other parts of the country.likewise, odi continues gathering information to ascertain whether the recall scope should include other geographical areas.if evidence indicates the scope should be expanded, odi will reopen the investigation as warranted.
Opened Mar 6, 1991Closed Jul 22, 1991throttle and acceleration
There is no summary currently available
Technical service bulletins
63 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 1991 Explorer. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
transmission 16engine 12equipment 9tires 5brakes 5electrical system 4body and frame 4suspension 2
A GRABBING AND/OR STICKING CONDITION DURING THE FIRST FEW BRAKE APPLICATIONS WHEN THE BRAKES ARE COLD OR IN THE MORNING AFTER AN OVERNIGHT RAIN MAY OCCUR ON SOME VEHICLES. *YC
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE BECAUSE IT MAY BE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE RUBBER MATERIAL USED IN THE DISC BRAKE SYSTEM. IF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE IS USED TO LUBRICATE ANY PART OF THE DISC BRAKE SYSTEM, IT COULD CAUSE RUBBER PARTS TO SWELL IF LUBRICANT CONTACTS THE RUBBER MATERIAL.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Service BrakesCrash
Filed Dec 20, 2021CO
The component that malfunctioned was the abs sensor. It is not available for inspection. I was driving going around 45 in traffic and the drivers side rear brake locked up and spun me out of control and caused me to collide with another vehicle. I only lightly pressed the brakes and it happened suddenly and unexpectedly. It was not inspected before it was towed after the accident. There were no warning lamps.
Seat Belts
Filed May 7, 201591,000 milesIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH WITH ANOTHER PASSENGER, THE SEAT BELTS DISENGAGED AND CAUSED THE PASSENGER SEAT TO OVERTURN BETWEEN THE SEATS. THE PASSENGER WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 91,000.
Fuel/Propulsion SystemFire
Filed Jul 5, 201315,000 milesCA
ON JUNE 4TH MY DAUGHTER AND I WERE DRIVING EAST BOUND ON 62ND AND OVER-HILL IN LOS ANGELES CA. SHORTLY AFTER 12:00PM. WHEN SUDDENLY THE FORD EXPLORER WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. MY DAUGHTER AND I WERE ORDERED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF A RECALL. DUE TO INVESTIGATION ON MY OWN I HAVE RECEIVED A RECALL NUMBER. IT IS 96S35. I HAVE ATTEMPTED TO RESOLVE THIS MATTER WITH FORD HOWEVER I JUST RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THEM REFUSING TO ASSIST ME. MY DAUGHTER AND I COULD HAVE BEEN BURNED ALIVE. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF YOU COULD ASSIST ME. THE VEHICLE HAS SINCE BEEN DESTROYED. I ONLY HAVE IN MY POSSESSION THE PICTURE, AND A FIRE REPORT. *TR
Tires
Filed Oct 21, 2011MT
I PURCHASED TWO MICHELIN LTX MS2 235/75R15 TIRES FROM TIRE RACK.COM, E732381. THEY WERE DELIVERED SEPTEMBER 15, 2011 WITH AN INCORRECTLY COMPLETED OMB CONTROL NO. 2127-0050 TIRE REGISTRATION CARD. THE CARD LISTED THE BRAND AS BF GOODRICH AND THE TIRE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS AS BETJMX912711. THE TIRES I RECEIVED ARE MICHELIN B3DDDVOX2511 ACCORDING TO THE TIRE SIDEWALLS. I CONTACTED TIRE RACK'S CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THEY ADVISED THAT THERE SYSTEM SHOWED THAT I WAS SENT MICHELIN B3DDDVOX2511 TIRES AND THAT IT WAS NOT THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO CORRECTLY COMPLETE THE TIRE REGISTRATION CARD. DOES THIS COMPLY WITH DOT REGULATIONS REGARDING TIRE RETAILER'S CONDUCT REGARDING TIRE RECALL REGISTRATION? *TR
Tires
Filed Oct 25, 20092,000 milesAZ
UNIROYAL TIRE SIDE WALL CRACKS LT 235 75R15 - NO FAILURE - JUST CRACK. ALL 4 OF MY TIRES HAD A SIDE WALL CRACK THE ENTIRE DIAMETER OF THE TIRE ABOUT 3 INCHES DOWN ON THE SIDE WALL . I NOTICED THE CRACK ON THE INSIDE AS WELL SO IT APPEARS THE TIRES HAD SOME ISSUE. I HAD NEVER APPLIED TIRE FOAM CLEANER(ARMOR ALL TIREFOAM PRIOR ) BUT ONE TIME THIS LAST WEEK I DID APPLY SOME AND FOUND THE CRACK. LOOKING UNDER THE 1991 FORD EXPLORER 4X4 I DID SEE THE SAME ISSUE ON THE INSIDE OF A FRONT TIRE AS WELL...I NEVER APPLIED ANY ARMOR ALL TYPE CLEANER ON THE INSIDE EITHER. UNIROYAL FACTORY PHONE SUPPORT BLAMED ME OF APPLYING TIRE CLEANER WHICH RUINS TIRES AND SO DID THE WALMART TIRE STORE STAFF . I NEVER APPLIED ANYTHING AS THIS IS AN OLDER VEHICLE WHICH AND NO PR OR SHOW APPEAL. WALMART REPLACED ALL 4 TIRES ON 10-25-09 BUT THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS NOT 35 PSI ITS WAS AROUND 43 ACCORDING TO MY GAGE..THE TIRES ARE RATED FOR 50PSI. WALMART CHARGED THE PROBLEM TO MY WARRANTY AND THEN WANTED TO CHARGE AGAIN FOR A NEW WARRANTY. THIS WAS A TIRE FACTORY PROBLEM AS BOTH SIDE OF THE TIRES HAD A CRACK NOT A FIELD ROAD HAZARD ISSUE. KINGMAN AZ HAS TEMP RANGES FROM 110 IN JULY TO 9 DEGREES IN WINTER...THIS MAY BE FACTOR. *TR
Engine and Engine CoolingFire1 injured
Filed Apr 30, 2009KY
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH ON A DRIVEWAY INCLINE, THE ENGINE IDLED EXCESSIVELY HIGH AND THE VEHICLE STALLED UNEXPECTEDLY. THE ENGINE RESTARTED AND RESUMED NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT DETECTED SMOKE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND IMMEDIATELY TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED UNDERNEATH THE HOOD AND MASSIVE FLAMES ERUPTED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND HAS NOT BEEN TOWED AWAY FROM THE SCENE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES TO HER HANDS. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNAVAILABLE.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Sep 8, 2008100,000 milesGA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNED A 1991 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART. SHE MANAGED TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOULDER AND LEFT TO CALL FOR HELP. UPON RETURNING TO THE VEHICLE, IT WAS CONSUMED IN FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE OVER 100,000.
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control
Filed Mar 27, 2008NC
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 FORD EXPLORER. AFTER RECEIVING THE RECALL NOTICE FOR THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL: CRUISE CONTROL, THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY DID NOT HAVE THE PART FOR THE REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE RECALL STATED THAT THEY WERE AVAILABLE. THEY DID NOT KNOW WHEN THE PARTS WOULD ARRIVE. THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 81,000.
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control
Filed Feb 26, 2008100,000 milesMO
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC AND THEY CLAIMED TO REPAIR IT, BUT ACTUALLY DID NOT. THE VEHICLE FAILED AND WAS TOWED TO A FORD DEALER AND THEY REPLACED THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY IN THE POSSESSION OF ANOTHER MECHANIC. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE GREATER THAN 100,000. UPDATED 03/11/08. *LJ
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Support Device/Strut
Filed Nov 27, 2006161,000 milesTX
COPY OF LETTER TO FMC: I OWN A 1991 FORD EXPLORER 4WD XLT [XXX]. I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ON 11/9/96, FROM CROWN DODGE, VENTURA, CALIFORNIA. THE SELLING DEALER ASSURED ME AT THE TIME THAT NO RECALLS WERE OUTSTANDING ON THIS VEHICLE. ON NOVEMBER 11/22/06, AS I CLOSED THE HATCH ON THIS VEHICLE, THE BRACKET THAT ATTACHES THE RIGHT-SIDE LIFTGATE GAS ASSIST CYLINDER TO THE HATCH TORE AWAY FROM THE HATCH. I HAVE JUST LEARNED THAT A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN (NUMBER 95I007000) WAS ISSUED IN OCTOBER 1995 TO REINFORCE THIS BRACKET. THE CAMPAIGN STATED THAT "IF A BRACKET AND GAS ASSIST CYLINDER WERE TO DETACH COMPLETELY FROM THE LIFTGATE AND NO LONGER BEAR AGAINST THE LIFTGATE AS INTENDED, THE REMAINING CYLINDER WOULD NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE IN AN OPEN POSITION. PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR." THE CORRECTIVE ACTION WAS FOR FORD DEALERS TO REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENTS. MY LOCAL FORD DEALER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE STATED TODAY THEY COULD NOT HONOR THIS SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN. REBECCA (#6048) AT THE FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE CALL CENTER TOLD ME THE CAMPAIGN HAD EXPIRED, AND COULDN'T OFFER ASSISTANCE. YOUR COMPANY'S RESPONSE TO DATE IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. THE BRACKET WAS ATTACHED TO THE HATCH BY ONLY TWO SMALL SPOT WELDS, AS IS THE LEFT-SIDE BRACKET. THE FAILURE STILL HAS THE POTENTIAL FOR CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY, ESPECIALLY IF THE LEFT-SIDE BRACKET WERE TO FAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS APPARENTLY NOT REPAIRED UNDER THIS SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN. I WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE CAMPAIGN NOR OFFERED AN
Tires › Tread/Belt
Filed Sep 25, 2006NC
I HAVE JUST PURCHASED A VEHICLE NOT TOO LONG AGO THAT HAS THE WILDERNESS HT TIRES ON IT THAT LOOK VERY UNSAFE. I LOOKED THEM UP ON YOUR WEBSITE AND THEY WERE RECALLED. IS THERE ANYWAY I COULD GET A RECALL INFO SHEET TO REPLACE THE TIRES ON THE VEHICLE...THERE ARE HARDLY ANY MILES ON THE TIRES AND I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO DRIVE IT BECAUSE THEY ARE SO UNSAFE. THEY ARE MODEL # P22570R15. I HAVE 2 LITTLE GIRLS THAT I WOULD LIKE TO KEEP SAFE!
Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly
Filed Aug 31, 2006113,804 milesCA
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED 4 OUT OF THE 5 SAFETY BELTS IN THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT LATCH PROPERLY. IF THEY WERE SHAKEN, OR IF THERE WAS ANY FORCE APPLIED TO THEM THEY BECAME UNLATCHED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR SERVICE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THERE WAS A NHTSA RECALL # 92V113000, PERTAINING TO THE FRONT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO THE VIN. UPDATED 10/04/06. *JB
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 12, 2006CA
I HAVE CONTACTED THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP IE.. HANSEL FORD AND CURTIS FORD. THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT STATED THAT SINCE MY VEHICLE (1991) FORD EXPLORER WAS OVER 10 YEARS. OLD THEY NO LONGER HAD ANY INFORMATION ON RECALLED PARTS OR RECALLED PAINT ECT. PLEASE MAIL OR E-MAIL ME A COMPLETET LIST OF ALL RECALLS 1991 FORD EXLPORER. *JB
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Aug 30, 2005138,000 milesAK
DT: THE CONSUMER SMELL SMOKE, AND THEN SOME SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT OF THE LEFT SIDE OF THE HOOD. ALL OF THE GAUGES LOOKED OKAY AND THE CONSUMER THOUGHT IT WAS OVERHEATING. THEN THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE FAST WITH SMOKE ON THE LEFT AND FIRE ON THE RIGHT OF THE HOOD AND BURNED ALL THE WAY TO THE BACK OF MY CAR, AND THE TWO CARS ON EITHER SIDE. THIS HAPPENED IN A DENNY'S PARKING LOT IN FAIRBANKS ON 6/30/05. FIRE DEPARTMENT CASE NUMBER: 051947. TOWED VEHICLE TO THE MECHANIC. *NM *NM
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jul 19, 200543,000 milesTN
VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE AND WAS A TOTAL LOSS
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Hinge and Attachments
Filed Apr 18, 200515,000 milesOR
THE REAR LIFTGATE WAS IN THE UP POSITION AND IT DROPPED WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS UNLOADING GROCERIES. THE RIGHT SIDE HINGE BROKE. THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN LIFTGATE RECALL CAMPAIGN 04V442000. *AK *SC *JB
Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Filed Apr 12, 2005MI
SPARE TIRE WINCH CABLE ON 1991 FORD EXPLORER FAILED AT INTERSECTION FOLLOWING BUMP ON REAR FROM ANOTHER MOTORIST. NO DAMAGE TO REAR BUT CORRODED CABLE BROKE AND TIRE FELL TO GROUND.*AK
Seat Belts
Filed Apr 11, 2005MA
I FOUND SEVERAL RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE. IT IS AN OLD VEHICLE, BUT I ONLY BOUGHT IT IN 2003. I KNOW SOME OF THEM EXPIRED, AND IT SAYS TO CONTACT FOD. I DID VIA WEB SITE. THEY DO NOT SHOW ANY RECALLS. BUT, YOU SHOWED ME OVER 5 RECALLS? CAN I STILL GET THEM FIXED? MY TIRES I GUESS, HAVE BEEN REPLACED BUT THEY DID NIT REPLACE THE SPARE TIRE. I STILL HAVE THE RECALLED SPARE TIRE?? WHAT DO I DO NOW? CAN I DO ANYTHING? BUT, I STILL HAVE BAD TIRES, THE 2001 TIRE RECALL DOES NOT SAY WHAT BRAND? I HAVE ATX AND APT FIRESTONE TIRES. CAMPAIN #92V113000,91V189000,00T005000 AND ANOTHER TIRE RECALL, I DID NOT GET THE #, BUT IT WAS IN 2001. THANK YOU. *AK
Seat Belts › Front
Filed Mar 29, 2005181,000 milesCA
PENINSULA FORD, SUNNYVALE, CA REFUSED TO SERVICE EXISTING SAFETY RECALL, WITHOUT EXPLANATION. NHTSA CAMPAIGN 92V113000. THE VEHICLE IN QUESTION FITS ALL APPLICABILITY CRITIERIA LISTED IN RECALL DOCUMENTS. ONE OF THREE SYMPTOMS (UNEXPLAINED AND REPEATED, SUDDEN FRONT SEAT BELT RELEASE) DESCRIBED BY THIS RECALL OCCURS REGULARLY.
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise ControlCrash1 injured
Filed Mar 27, 200579,284 milesWA
MY WIFE [XXX] WAS DRIVING MY 1991 FORD EXPLORER TO SEE HER SON ON 2-2-04( AND NEVER USES CRUISE CONTROL)WHEN ON HWY 161 HEADING NORTH THE CRUISE CONTROL TOOK OVER AND MADE THE THROTTLE STICK WIDE OPEN, THE BRAKES WOULD NOT HOLD AND VEHICLE WENT UP TO ABOUT 70 BEFORE SHE FINALLY TURNED OFF KEY, THE BRAKES WERE SMOKING FROM ABOUT 1 MILE OF FIGHTING TO STOP THE THING, SHE FINALLY STOPPED AFTER HITTING A TRUCK IN FRONT OF BLACKSTONE COLLISION, WHOSE OWNER DEMANDED SHE REMOVE IT DUE TO BLOCKING DRIVEWAY, (2) SALESMEN FROM JET CHEV SAW THE WHOLE THING AND SINCE THE OTHER DRIVERS VEHICLE WAS NOT BADLY DAMAGED HE WANTED TO LEAVE, THE SALESMAN STARTED THE FORD EXPLORER AND IT WAS STILL FLOORED HE WAS ABLE TO MOVE IT AND PARKED IT, HE ALSO UNSTUCK THE THROTTLE THEREBY DESTROYING EVIDENCE,MY INSURANCE CO. WAS GOING TO GO AFTER FORD BUT DIDN'T , SO WE WERE CANCELLED AND NOW I PAY TWICE AS MUCH DUE TO FORD DEFECTS THEY NEED TO OWN UP TO THIS. VEH ID [XXX] MY WIFE HAD TO GO TO HOSPITAL FOR 2 CRACKED ANKLES DUE TO THIS AS X RAYS WERE TAKEN WITHIN 4 HRS OF WRECK (SHE HAD BOTH FEET ON BRAKE PEDAL TRYING TO STOP IT.) I AM GOING TO ALSO REPORT ANOTHER INCIDENT FROM THIS SAME VEHICLE, MFG DEFECT. *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power Train › Axle Hubs1 injured
Filed Mar 27, 200575,200 milesWA
AFTER PURCHASING THIS FORD EXPLORER I CHECK ALL FLUIDS AND ADDED AND CHANGED AS NESSASARY ABOUT 2 WEEKS AFTER I PURCHASED IT MY STEPSON AND MY WIFE AND LARGE DOG WENT ON A LITTLE TRIP TO CHECK OUT THIS THING, AFTER LETTING OUT THE WIFE AND DOG MY STEPSON AND MYSELF TRIED TO GO UP A SLIGHT HILL IN 4 WHEEL DRIVE TO SEE IF IT WORKED, AFTER IT WOULDN'T MAKE IT UP THE HILL WE BACKED IT DOWN AND HEADED BACK FOR MY WIFE WHEN THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WHEEL AND BRAKE ASSY FELL OFF DUE TO THE PLASTIC PIECE FAILING INSIDE AUTOMATIC HUBS CAUSING C CLIP TO FAIL, I HAD TO CALL MY BROTHER IN LAW TO GET MY TRUCK AND TRAILER TO GET THIS THING HOME WHERE BY SKINNING MY KNUCKLES ON ROCKS TRYING TO GET THIS ON A JACK, I LATER WENT TO FORD TO TRY TO BUY JUST DAMAGED PART THEY WANTED 385 DOLLARS FOR WHOLE KIT WHICH NOW HAS A LOCKING DEVISE THAT WILL NOT ALLOW THE NUT TO FREELY SPIN OFF, I BELIEVE THE NEW PIECE IS NO LONGER MADE OF PLASTIC EITHER, I WENT TO JUNK YARD AND GOT A USED PLASTIC PIECE AND MADE MY OWN PERMANT LOCKING DEVISE TO KEEP THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. FAULTY DESIGN.
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise ControlFire
Filed Mar 23, 2005208,000 milesTX
ON DEC 23, 2004, MY 1991 FORD EXPLORER CAUGHT FIRE WHILE I WAS DRIVING IT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE HAD 208,000 MILES ON IT. IT HAD BEEN PROFESSIONALY SERVICED A WEEK PRIOR TO THE FIRE. WHILE I WAS DRIVING, I NOTICED A BURNING SMELL. I LOOKED IN THE REAR-VIEW MIRROR & SAW SOME WHITE SMOKE BEHIND ME. WITHIN SECONDS THE ENGINE DIED. BY THE TIME I GOT IT PULLED ONTO THE SHOULDER, SMOKE WAS STREAMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE BURNED THROUGH THE FIREWALL AND CAUGHT THE INTERIOR ON FIRE VERY QUICKLY.*AK
Exterior Lighting › Brake LightsCrash
Filed Feb 4, 2005KS
COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL. THE BRAKE LIGHTS ON MY 1991 FORD EXPLORER CANNOT BE MADE TO WORK CONSISTENTLY. THIS PRESENTS AN OBVIOUS SAFETY HAZARD TO THE DRIVERS FOLLOWING MY VEHICLE. WHEN I HIT MY BRAKES THEY CAN'T TELL. I HAVE BEEN REAR ENDED TWICE ALREADY, AND I AM TIRED OF IT. BUT FORTUNATELY THE REAR BUMPER IS VERY STRONG, AND ONLY IS BENT IN A LITTLE SO FAR, SINCE THE VEHICLE BEHIND HITS THE TOW HITCH, WHICH IS CAPABLE OF TOWING 3,500 POUNDS. RACEWAY FORD IN RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA ATTEMPTED TO REPAIR THIS PROBLEM BY REPLACING THE SWITCH AT LEAST TWICE SINCE 1997. I HAVE NOT YET GONE THROUGH THE PAPER WORK BEFORE 1997 TO SEE HOW MANY ATTEMPTS WERE MADE TO CORRECT THE DESIGN DEFECT. I REPLACED THE SWITCH AGAIN, AND STILL CANNOT GET THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO WORK PROPERLY.*AK
Power Train › Automatic TransmissionFire
Filed Feb 1, 2005PA
I WAS DRIVING AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE TRASMISSION SLIPPED AND I WOUDNT GO FORWARD TEN SMOKED POURED OUT AND PEOPLE IN THE STREETS STARTED YELLING SAYING "THERE'S FIRE COMING OUT THE HOOD!!" I PULLED OVER AND JUMPED OUT AND THE WHOLE ENGINE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES!!! VEHICLE TOTALLED. *AK
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Jan 13, 2005UT
TRANSMISSION WENT OUT, THEN THE FRONT MAIN SEAL. IT HASN'T BEEN TWO MONTHS AND THEN MY HEATER CORE WENT OUT AND AT THE SAME TIME MY HEATER FAN. ALSO, BEFORE THE FRONT MAIN SEAL WENT OUT THE ROTORS WENT BAD AND I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM. THIS HAS ALL HAPPENED WITHIN A YEARS TIME. I AM THOROUGHLY DISGUSTED AND BROKE. I PRAISED FORD BEFORE THIS, NOW I WOULDN'T RECOMMEND FORD TO ANYONE I KNOW. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER TRYING TO MAKE ENDS MEET AND NOW I HAVE NO TRANSPORTATION BECAUSE I CAN NO LONGER AFFORD TO FIX THIS TRUCK. I HAVE REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION, FRONT MAIN SEAL, WATER PUMP, STARTER, ROTORS, ALTERNATOR, AND THE LOW WHEEL DRIVE ON MY TRUCK BUT NOW ITS THE HEATER CORE AND I HAVE BEEN QUOTED OVER 600-800 TO FIX THIS! THAT IS IF I CAN FIND ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DO IT WHICH BY THE WAY NO ONE DOES. WHAT DO I DO NOW? *NM
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine
Filed Dec 8, 200474,096 milesCA
THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR ENGINE REPAIRS. THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT THE VEHICLE WAS READY TO BE DRIVEN. THE CONSUMER WENT TO THE GAS STATION BECAUSE THERE WAS NO FUEL IN IT. WHEN THE CONSUMER WAS LEAVING THE GAS STATION, THE VEHICLE LOST ITS FRONT WHEEL. IT WAS THEN DISCOVERED THAT NO LUGS; BOLTS WERE PUT BACK ON THE FRONT WHEEL. THE CONSUMER WAS HAVING ENGINE WORK DONE TO THE VEHICLE. WHY WOULD THEY TAKE THE WHEELS OFF TO SERVICE THE ENGINE, AND THEN NOT PUT THE BOLTS BACK ON. *AK THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS WAS AN ACT OF VANDALISM. *SC *JB
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch
Filed Oct 8, 2004237,150 milesUT
TRAVELING 40 MPH IN NORMAL WEATHER IN MODERATE TRAFFIC. HOOD LATCH FAILED CAUSING HOOD TO FLY OPEN AND BLOCK VISIBILITY. WAS ABLE TO COME TO A SAFE STOP AND CLOSE THE HOOD. RESULTED DAMAGE TO THE HOOD, HINGES AND COWLING,(IN ADDITION TO SCARING ME BADLY). PRESENTLY BEING INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC. *NM
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Filed Jul 26, 2004130,000 milesFL
VEHICLE IS A 1991 FORD EXPLORER XLT EDDIE BAUER EDITION, 4X4 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSAXLE, 4.0L V6. VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH REAR-WHEEL ANTI-LOCK BRAKES. BOTH REAR WHEELS PERFORM UNCOMMANDED FULL LOCKUP AFTER MEDIUM APPLICATION OF BRAKE PEDAL. CONDITION PERSISTS EVEN WHEN PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL IS REMOVED. VEHICLE SKIDS TO A STOP. FULL APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS IS REQUIRED TO RELEASE THE REAR WHEEL BRAKE DRUMS AND RESTORE NORMAL CONTROL TO THE DRIVER. THIS COULD EASILY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. SYMPTOMS PRESENT REGARDLESS OF WEATHER/ROAD CONDITIONS, VEHICLE SPEED, OR MANEUVER TYPE.*AK
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate › Support Device/Strut
Filed May 19, 2004198,000 milesVA
IN 2001 THE RIGHT SIDE BRACKET ATTACHMENT OF THE REAR LIFTGATE GAS ASSIST CYLINDER CAME OFF FROM THE INSIDE OF THE LIFTGATE OF MY 1991 FORD EXPLORER. THE REMAINING ASSIST CYLINDER DOES NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE IN AN OPEN POSITION. AS I UNDERSTAND FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NO 95I007000 OVER A MILLION VEHICLES HAD THE BRACKETS REINFORCED, BUT MY EXPLORER WASN'T INCLUDED ALTHOUGH IN MY OPINION IT CLEARLY SHOULD HAVE BEEN. I HAVEN'T PRICED THE REPAIRS.*AK
Tires
Filed Apr 2, 2004CT
I HAVE A FIRESTONE ATX SPARE TIRE AS ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON MY 1991 FORD EXPLORER. BOTH FORD AND FIRESTONE PARTICIPATED IN A RECALL OF THESE TIRES. I WAS NEVER CONTACTED ABOUT THE RECALL. I HAVE CONTACTED BOTH FORD AND FIRESTONE CUSTOMER SERVICE TO GET THIS TIRE REPLACED AND THEY SAY THEY CAN NO LONGER REPLACE MY TIRE. *JB
THE RIGHT SUPPORT GAS ASSIST CYLINDER ON THE LIFTGATE FAILED AND PULLED AWAY AND BROKE OFF COMPLETELY, THEREFORE THE LIFTGATE WILL NOT HOLD ON ITS OWN. *AK
Seat Belts › Rear/Other
Filed Mar 4, 2004197,000 milesCO
SEAT BELTS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW. CHILD SAFETY RESTRAINT IS REQUIRED BY LAW. I OWN A 1991 FORD EXPLORER, OH YES, THE ONE SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN INJURED OR KILLED IN BECAUSE OF FIRESTONE TIRES?????, OR MAYBE IT WAS THE SEAT BELTS. FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS OBSOLETED THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE FOR THE CENTER REAR AND LEFT REAR, WHICH IS NOW BROKEN, BUT REQUIRED BY LAW IN ORDER TO SECURE MY CHILD RESTRAINT SEAT, WHICH IS ALSO REQUIRED BY LAW. THIS IS NOT A COLORED PART, IT IS A BLACK TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE USED IN MANY FORDS IN THE 1990'S. AUTO MANUFACTURERS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO HAVE AVAILABLE ANY SAFETY ITEM REQUIRED BY LAW THAT WAS ORGINALLY IN THE VEHICLE AT THE TIME OF ORIGINAL SALE. I HAVE CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER RELATIONS CENTER, THEY DO NOT WANT TO DEAL WITH IT, TELL ME TO CONTACT DEALERSHIP, WHO HAS ABSOLUTELY NO CONTROL OVER PART PHASE OUT. I KNOW FORDS SYSTEM, I WAS A PARTS AND SERVICE DIRECTOR FOR A FORD DEALERSHIP FOR 18 YEARS, UP UNTIL 2 YEARS AGO. I HAVE SEEN MANY FORD SEAT BELT BUCKLES BREAK OVER THE YEARS, AND LUCKY FOR THE CUSTOMER, I WAS ALWAYS ABLE TO GET THE PART FOR THEM. I AM NOT SO LUCKY. I DO NOT WANT TO GO TO A SALVAGE YARD AND BUY A USED BUCKLE TO SECURE MY 10 MONTH OLD SON. I SPENT $280 TO BUY A BRITAX CAR SEAT TO ENSURE HIS SAFETY. THEY SEAT BELT BUCKLE BROKE WHILE WE WERE REMOVING HIS INFANT SEAT TO INSTALL THE NEW CAR SEAT. THE MANUAL STATES TO INSTALL THE SEAT IN THE CENTER REAR POSITION FOR THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF SAFETY. HOW CAN THE LAW REQUIRE ME TO USE SOME
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Filed Feb 11, 2004IL
SUN ROOF FAILURE . *AK
Wheels
Filed Dec 22, 2003100,000 milesCA
WHILE DRIVING AT A LOW SPEED CONSUMER HEARD A DRAGGING NOISE. UPON PULLING OVER TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL AND ITS ATTACHMENTS SEPARATED AND FELL OFF. *AK
Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing
Filed Dec 21, 2003CA
WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH AFTER HEARING A STRANGE DRAGGING NOISE MY LEFT WHEEL CAME OFF AFTER RETREIVING THE TIRE I NOTICED THE ROTOR BRAKE CHAMBER WAS STILL BOLTED TIGHTLY TO THE WHEEL SOME BEARINGS LOOKED LIKE THEY HAD FALLEN OUT THE BRAKE LINE WAS SNAPPED THE SUSPENTION AROUND THE WHEEL WAS BROKEN I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED BY MY TRIPLE AAA TOWING COMPANY RENTED A CAR AND USED THE INTERNET TO INVESTIGATE AND MAKE THIS REPORT BECAUSE IT LOOKS LIKE AN MANUFACTURES DEFAULT I ALSO TOOK PICTURES AND HAVE NOT WORKED ON THE VEHICLE I AM WAAITING YOUR RESPONSE SO I CAN GET AN ESTIMATE FROM AN CERTIFIED MECHANIC AS OF YET I HAVE NOT CONSULTED AN ATTORNEY. *AK
Air Bags
Filed Dec 12, 2003VA
LETTER REGARDING RECALL 03S04 SEAT RECLINER BOLT..*MR (NAR) *CB THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT A NEW WIRING HARNESS WAS NEEDED. *JB
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components
Filed Dec 10, 2003160,300 milesNC
I BOUGHT A 1991 FORD EXPLORER 1 1/2 YEARS AGO FROM A NEIGHBOR WHO SAID HE WAS TIRED OF PUTTING BRAKES ON IT. SINCE HE HAD JUST DONE IT AGAIN, I DIDN'T EXPECT ANY TROUBLE FOR A WHILE. 17,000 MILES LATER, ALL BRAKE PADS, CALIPERS ETC., NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. IT IS AVERAGING 20,000 MILES ON THIS VEHICLE. THE MECHANIC SAID THIS MODEL WAS "BAD FOR PUSHING THE PADS OFF THE SHOES." WHILE PAYING MY BILL, I NOTICED ANOTHER SIMILAR VEHICLE ON THE RACK GETTING THE SAME THING DONE. IS THIS AN EPIDEMIC OR AM I JUST UNLUCKY? I HAVE CONTACTED FORD CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE AND THEY SAY THERE ARE NO RECALLS ON THIS SUBJECT AND NOTHING IS WRONG. RIGHT! VIN IS [XXX] I CAN'T GET THIS TO SEND WITHOUT ENTERING SOMETHING ON THE EQUIPMENT PAGES WHICH DOES NOT APPLY. PLEASE IGNORE. *LA INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Auxillary Tank
Filed Nov 25, 2003MA
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE DRIVER SMELLED GAS COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED GAS LEAKING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. PLEASE ADD ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *NLM
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly
Filed Nov 21, 2003250,000 milesMA
FUEL IS SPILLING OUT FROM THE FUEL TANK. THERE'S A RECALL 91V024000 FOR THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY. THE MANUFACTURER IS NOT PROVIDING PROPER INFORMATION. THEY ARE INDICATING THAT THE VIN NUMBER MAY NOT BE INCLUDED OR THE RECALL WAS ALREADY PERFORMED. *NLM
Electrical System › Wiring › Front UnderhoodFire
Filed Nov 7, 2003100,000 milesAR
AFTER FILLING THE FUEL TANK VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM UNDER THE HOOD WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH. *AK
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under DashFire
Filed Oct 29, 2003141,000 milesCT
ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS INSIDE THE DASHBOARD IGNITED, AND VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THIS OCCURRED WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. *AK
Power Train › Transfer Case (4-wheel Drive)
Filed Oct 22, 200312,000 milesMI
WHEN DRIVING 4-WHEEL DRIVE ENGAGED WITHOUT WARNING. THIS CAUSED STEERING WHEEL TO PULL EITHER RIGHT OR LEFT. HAD TO MAINTAIN CONTROL. DRIVER SHIFTED INTO REVERSE TO DISENGAGE 4-WHEEL DRIVE. *AK
Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner
Filed Oct 20, 2003KS
AIR CONDITION (A/C) WORKS OFF AND ON. IT WILL RUN FOR A WHILE THEN IT STARTS BLOWING HOT AIR, PUSH THE A/C BUTTON AND GO TO VENT AND 5-10 MIN. LATER YOU CAN TURN A/C BACK ON AGAIN FOR AWHILE UNTIL YOU HAVE TO DO IT AGAIN. THIS WAS HAPPENING BEFORE I HAD IT SWITCHED OVER FROM FREON AND IT IS STILL DOING IT. IT HAS BEEN TO 2 DIFFERENT SHOPS AND BOTH SAY THE "FREON" LEVEL IS FINE AND THAT THEY CANT FIND A PROBLEM WITH IT. *LA
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator
Filed Oct 2, 2003NC
GENERATOR FAILED PREMATURELY, CAUSING VEHICLE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING.*AK
Seats › Front Assembly › Recliner
Filed Oct 2, 2003NC
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE'S SEAT RECLINED WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
Electrical System › Wiring › Front UnderhoodFire
Filed Sep 23, 2003TX
WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE, BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES CAME UNDER THE HOOD. THE DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Hood › Latch
Filed Sep 10, 2003CA
THE HOOD FLEW UP WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 65 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. SAFETY HOOD LATCH DID NOT CONNECT. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. *AK
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under Dash
Filed Sep 5, 2003229,000 milesNM
HEADLIGHTS & DASH LIGHTS BLINK. THEY WILL BE FINE FOR A WHILE BUT THEN JUST START BLINKING. TURNING THEM OFF, THEN ON AGAIN, MAKES THEM STAY ON FOR A FEW MINUTES UNTIL THEY START BLINKING AGAIN. SOMETIMES THEY DON'T BLINK. SOMETIMES THEY WON'T GO ON AT ALL AND I HAVE TO HOLD THE BRIGHTS SWITCH BACK IF I WANT TO HAVE LIGHT. MY SISTER HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM ON HER 1993 FORD THUNDERBIRD.*AK
TIRE BLOW OUT OCCURRED. NAR 07/02/2003. *MR FORD INITIATED A PROGRAM TO GIVE AWAY TIRES TO THEIR CUSTOMERS. WHEN THE CUSTOMERS WANTED TO RECEIVE THE TIRES, THE DEALERSHIP DID NOT HAVE THEM AVAILABLE. NOW THAT THE PROGRAM HAS EXPIRED THEY HAVE NOT GIVEN OUT ANY OF THE REPLACEMENT TIRES TO THE CONSUMERS WHO WERE ON A LIST TO RECEIVE THEM. IT IS EVIDENT THAT THE PREVIOUS TIRES WERE DEFECTIVE OR THEY WOULD HAVE NOT BEEN GIVING OUT NEW ONES. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND FOUND OUT WHETHER FORD WILL GIVE REPLACEMENT TIRES. *CB *JB
Complaints 1-50 of 609, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Explorer years to avoid: an unusual share of its 609 complaints describe fires, crashes or deaths for a car of its age. The most common complaint is about the brakes (18%).
What is the most common problem with the 1991 Ford Explorer?
The brakes: 109 of the 609 complaints (18%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses its brakes or the pedal sinks (17%), sets off warning lights on the dash (7%) and leaks oil or fluid (5%). The typical report comes at 160,300 miles.
How many recalls does the 1991 Ford Explorer have?
11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 22, 2001. The largest, 00T005000, covered 14,400,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 1991 Ford Explorer problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 130,000 miles. For the brakes the midpoint is 160,300 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 1991 Ford Explorer?
Yes, 17 times. The latest, EA00012 ("SPARE TIRE WINCH CABLE"), was opened Apr 14, 2000 and closed Oct 20, 2000.
Are there service bulletins for the 1991 Ford Explorer?
The manufacturer filed 63 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (16), the engine (12) and the tires (5). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
4 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: May 22, 2001. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.