I took my explorer on June 7, 2022 and had toe link replaced due to recall. We were heading on vacation in it on June 11 and almost wrecked. We took to a garage and we’re told the wrong toe link was put on it because there are no adjustments on it to line it up. On a wet road and when you hit a bump the back end of the explorer wants to slide around. We ruined our tires driving it. It ate the tires on the outside almost down to the wires. The wheels are tiled wrong. It can not be lined up due to toe link being to short and no adjustments on them. It is very dangerous to drive now. We called [XXX] in Morehead Kentucky where they were replaced. They said if it is the parts you sent they couldn’t do anything. Something needs to be done because it deadly to drive right now. My husband is taking off work to take it to Tim Shorts tomorrow to let them look at it. We need the proper toe links put on it and we need a new set of tires due to the damage these have caused. These toe links put myself, my husband and our son’s life in danger. My husband told them if they would have lined it up as they should have they would have known they were the wrong toe links. If I have to I will get a lawyer but I hope I do not have to. We just want the proper toe links and a new set of tires. I will need something to drive while waiting for the repairs. Thank you Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2015 Ford Explorer complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA about this vehicle, newest first and reproduced as filed. They are unverified accounts: one proves nothing, and a pattern across many is the thing worth reading. Back to the full 2015 record →
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the passenger’s side front door panel was delaminating. The contact stated that there was a recall regarding the defect however, the recall had since expired. The dealer was contacted and the contact was informed that the vehicle was included in the recall. The contact was informed that the recall repair was to replace the door panel. The dealer had referred the contact to the manufacturer to inquire if the recall could be completed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the recall had since expired. The contact was referred to the NHTSA to file a complaint. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while parked or while driving during inclement weather, water would enter the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rain caused an electrical failure in the vehicle that caused the radio, windows, and other electrical equipment to not function properly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the roof rack needed to be replaced. The contact stated that she was concerned about the electrical failure that was caused by the soft roof rack. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000.
The windshield trim on the passenger side flew off the vehicle unexpectedly while driving 70 mph on the freeway. The piece hit the windshield and then flew off and could have struck a vehicle behind me or caused someone to swerve unexpectedly. This is extremely dangerous. There was no warning lights or indicator light. While searching for recalls online numerous people have complained of this happening to them unexpectedly.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine temperature gauge indicated the engine temperature was high and overheating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the water pump had failed. No further information was available. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were contacted but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 123,000.
2015 Ford Explorer XLT was parked at gas station and when returning I got a warning light “Engine coolant over temperature”. Coolant leaking in a puddle on front passenger side at bottom of motor indicating the same water pump issue everyone else has mentioned. Was able to make it to an Auto Zone down the road and the reservoir was nearly empty. Added more coolant and is still leaking out. With this flawed design causing people to pay thousands out of pocket, Ford should recall or reimburse vehicle owners.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized. The contact manually steered the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with power steering module failure. The mechanic informed the contact that the power steering module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Steering locks up while driving, no warnings or anything just cannot steer the vehicle.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The Power Steering Assist Fault and Service Advance Tract messages were displayed. The contact veered to the side of the road and waited. The contact continued driving the vehicle using extra effort to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the steering rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
The Ford electronic rack and pinion system just failed. No warning light, no advance notification. Driving vehicle down road and abs ability to steer vehicle becomes impossible. Stopped vehicle and brought to dealership. In any other circumstance this could have led to a crash with injuries or death. Googled problem, and innumerable instances of this happening with Ford vehicles. Surprised this isn’t a recall item already!!
The timing chain needs replaces. The phasers are causing the timing chain to stretch. As reported here: https://www.f150ecoboost.net/threads/ford-recall-force-on-2011-2015-phasers-and-timing-chain.32250/
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V537000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the driver’s and passenger’s side middle row captain chair inflatable seat belt receivers had malfunctioned and were inoperable. The contact indicated that the passenger’s side seat belt receiver housing and the internal clip had initially fractured and later the driver's internal clip had fractured making the seat belts unusable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the seat belts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 106,000.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while his wife was driving approximately 25 MPH and making right turn, the steering wheel suddenly malfunctioned and became difficult to turn causing the vehicle to drive off the road. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 163,000.
The brake light goes on for a couple of minutes then goes off also the engine oil comes on when I had already change it but then comes off as well . Both light randomly come on and off might be a electrical problem . Suspension is really bad my car goes like if it’s going on bumps then it stops then again, does it randomly . Also car shakes
Electronic power steering failure, no warnings no lights on dash, steering completely bound up was unable to control vehicle, vehicle came to a halt on side of road narrowly missing a service pole, powered off vehicle and started again, steering was active but decided not to risk driving and called a tow
VEHICLE HAS APX 78000 MILES WITH A BROKEN WATER PUMP. THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE GOOD FOR 100K MILES. MANY PEOPLE HAVE GOTTEN THEM REPLACED TO HAVE THEM BREAK AGAIN WITH IN A YEAR.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the power steering failed to operate while the power steering system and advance track warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the steering rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000. The VIN was not included.
The contact owns a 2015 FORD Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V675000 (Suspension) and 21V537000 (Suspension) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The cars timing chains are being stretched way to early in the mileage. I have a repair that will cost over $3500 to replace the VCTS, guides, chains, tensioners, solenoids and water pump. All of this with under 75,000 miles on the vehicle. This same issue is also on the ford f-150's that has the same issue and the exact same motor is in the explorer but for will cover the f-150 issues and not the explorers.
Electric power steering rack and pinion failure -- no communication to steering module. Currently available for inspection but may require immediate repair or sale of vehicle due to requirement of drivable vehicle. Inability to steer may have resulted in damage to person, vehicle and/or property if not immediately realized and car parked. Problem confirmed by independent service center (AAA Carolinas service center). No inspection of vehicle or component by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, although irregular but continuous issues with sensor re: putting transmission in park for 2+ years.
The water pump that is incased inside my engine has started leaking at only 75,000 miles with very few of those miles in the last 2 years as I've hardly been driving because of the pandemic. I was not aware of this issue and there was no warning or alert until I took my car in for a safety recall for my seat belts and to have another defective issue of the heater fan being stuck on defrost fixed that I should not have to be paying $5,000 out of pocket for. I have ready many similar complaints and this is a HUGE safety issue and they need to have a recall on these since the engine can seize up with little to no warning. I was lucky that they just happened to check for me before I had to replace my entire engine or worse!
Rack and pinion failure while driving vehicle at speed. Unable to turn steering wheel without strenuous effort. Terrain Management fault, Advance Trac fault and Steering Assist fault lights/warnings indicated on dashboard.
Hand free smart trunk on my car doesn’t go up all the way, when I go to put stuff in a trunk I got strucked to my head several times, when I also push the trunk up not to get hit the hydraulic bars gets lose and the trunk falles down and struck my head few times left me with bruises, it’s very dangerous
Rear-view camera doesn't not come on when you back up and says contact ford dealer
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V675000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V435000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Water pump started leaking at 50k miles
October 30, 2020, Ford issued a recall, 20S62, NHTSA recall 20V675. I have had the recommended inspection completed. However, as of March 7, 2022 (17 months later) Ford says the replacement parts are not available and they don't know when they will be available.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 20V675000 (Suspension) and 21V537000 (Suspension) however, the parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recalls.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V537000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a carbon monoxide odor was detected coming from the cabin air vents, which caused the contact and his passenger to have headaches. The vehicle had previously been serviced by the dealer for the recurring failure. The dealer had diagnosed the vehicle with an unknown failure, and an unknown part was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The dealer was made aware of the failure and scheduled an upcoming appointment for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer referred the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
The steering system failed twice without notice. The car would not steer while running, nearly causing an accident. The problem had been reproduced and confirmed by the dealer. Uknown if the component was inspected by the manufacturer. There were no warning lamps or messages, the steering simply stopped responding and locked up.
When making a right hand turn I noticed that the car began making knocking/thumping noises. Shortly after those noises began, when I attempted to turn left the steering wheel got stuck in the left turn position. I had to jerk the steering wheel hard to get it to straighten out. If I had not been able to get it straightened out I could have driven off the road or into oncoming traffic. Ford had to replace the entire steering rack and the dealership acknowledged that this is a known issue for 2015 Explorers.
Hello I went to the dealership many times. Every time I go for the recalls. They saying that the parts not available. I’m not sure what’s going on. They keep telling me try with us in a month. This is unprofessional and unacceptable. The recall for the suspension and the passenger door panel. By the way I tried 2 different dealership. On in eat Rutherford.NJ. And on I. Hackensack,NJ. Please advice.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle there was an odor of mildew inside the cabin of the vehicle. Upon inspection, it was discovered that water had leaked under the floorboards and the carpet was extremely wet causing black mold to develop under the carpet. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 124,000
I was driving and my power steering failed. The following messades appeared on my dash: Terrain Management System Fault Service AdvanceTrac Hill Assist Fault Electric Power Steering Failure. I was able to turn off the car and turn it back on again and the messages went away and my power steering worked again. A few days later, same issue occurred and the power steering never came back. Very hard to turn currebtly. I did some research and found that Ford had issued a recall for the same issue in previous years for the Explorer. I also found thousands of other owners had the same issue with the 2015 Explorer. Ford needs to step up and issue a recall on the 2015 Explorer for the power steering issue gefore someone is injured or killed.
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving his vehicle at approximately 50 MPH, the check engine light illuminated, and he smelled as if something was burning. The contact stated that he then pulled over and waited until the smoke cleared before driving the vehicle again. The contact stated that he then took his vehicle to get serviced for an oil change as he thought that may be the cause of the failure he was experiencing. The contact stated that while getting his vehicle serviced he was advised that it was liquid of some sort leaking into the engine. The contact stated he then contacted his independent mechanic to get his vehicle diagnosed. The contact stated it was confirmed by his mechanic there was fluid leaking into the engine and that the failure he was experiencing was identical to vehicles of the same year, make, and model vehicle upon doing research. The contact stated he contacted the manufacturer and was advised to contact NHTSA. The failure mileage was 88,000.
Water pump was leaking. Got warning indicating the coolant levels were low. Filled up coolant and was empty a couple weeks later. Was 14 hours of labor to fix. Mechanic said they get ford explorers with the same issue about 2 times per week. Should be a recall.
Halogen headlights (9005) are extremely dim which is a known safety issue. Customers are upgrading from halogen to led and xenon. I believe newer explorers upgraded headlights to led. I want Ford to recommend Led headlight alternative at my cost or fix this problem with recall. Drivers are flashing their headlights at nighttime because they think my lights are not on? Many hits on the internet concerning Ford Suva/truck halogen headlight issues.
The steering on my 2015 Explorer, the rack and pinion, is broken. My SUV has only 55K miles and has never been driven off-road. For repairing this issue, the cost is $3300. I called Sheehy of Gaithersburg, from whom I purchased the SUV, and told them the problem after finding out that this was a known issue. According to them, they are aware of it, but there is no remedy at this time. I was a bit bewildered because there was a remedy, i.e., fix the rack and pinion. Nevertheless, I was told that it was okay to drive with faulty steering despite the safety issue; furthermore, I won't be reimbursed if I decide to fix it. I am just so disappointed that Ford is okay with taking such a position, especially since it is a known safety issue.
“CO” Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, Re: Ford Motor Company (No.0:14-cv-61344-WPD 2015 Ford Explorer Sport, “CO” Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, 2015 Ford Explorer Sport, A grate Mechanic has no idea on Vapor Collection or Chemical Analysis To; Ford Motor Company Customer Relations [XXX] Attention; [XXX] 07/06/2021 03/04/2021 Case Number [XXX] and Other CAS Numbers Since Initial and Continual, Complaint Filed 08/20/2015 and Continuing Even Today From; [XXX] Military USAF Retired TSgt [XXX] Subject; This was my 17th Ford Purchased, and MY LAST… I Purchased My 2015 Ford Explorer Vin [XXX] and Filed a Complaint 08/20/2015 Requesting Help from Rich Ford Albuquerque New Mexico with the Carbon Monoxide in my 2015 Ford Explorer Sport Vin [XXX] that is Continuing Today see notes attached, 08/20/2015 I Bought My NEW, 2015 Ford Explorer Sport, Vin [XXX] For $59,000 Dollars At Rich Ford Auto Dealership, (505) 292-0000 8601 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 87111 (505) Service Righter [XXX] in 08/20/2015 Now Service Manager [XXX] Rich Ford Service Manager [XXX], confirmed they have done this and all notices from Ford, TBS16-0165 became Ford recall program 17N03 and supplement #1 dated October 26/2017 expires December 31/2019 Service Manager [XXX] Informed me that I would be charged for any further Service I filed complaints 08/20/2015 up Until Today with, Rich Ford, Ford Motor Co, Ford Motor co.com, with NO response. Co2 Carbon Monoxide Exhaust Complaint, I have become; Red Skin, Sleepy, Sic
I was driving my Ford Explorer and pulling a trailer behind it. I was about half way through a left hand turn at a major intersection when the power steering stopped working and my vehicle jerked hard to the right. Myself and my family were put at risk due to me barely being able to control the vehicle enough to avoid a collision with another vehicle, a telephone pole, and a curb after the steering system failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealership where the entire steering system was replaced at the cost of $2,500 to my family. There were no indications of any problem before this occurred.
I was pulling out on busy road and once i entered the road the car started to shutter. The vehicles power train management. System error flashed on the dash and I lost all power to the engine. I put my foot to the floor and nothing happened. Lucky I was nearly able to get over to the side of the road. I then put the vehicle into park and the engine started to shake violently. I then shut the car off to make sure the engine did not get any further damage. Once turned back on everything seemed normal. This was ver scary. Ford needs to address this issue as it seems to be more common after doing research.
My child was trying to buckle her seatbelt (right seat, middle row) and the part that you insert the metal into snapped apart. HUGE safety issue. What if it broke during an accident. We were sitting still (car in park) in our driveway thankfully.
Explorer has approximately 69k miles. Rack and pinion has to be replaced. Rubbing sound when wheel is turned and steering wheel 'sticks' when turned. Power steering power is also affected. Not under warranty. Checked by independent repair shop.
Vehicle placed in park, driver exited vehicle, vehicle disengaged from park and advanced forward. Vehicle stopped by crash. Ford customer relations was notified and documented concern. Driver injured attempting re-enter vehicle to apply brake. Powertrain assembly or shift linkage possible result of issue.
Was driving at a speed of 45 mph. Suddenly my power steering went out. Could barely steer it. A steering assist fault service required and advance trac system lights came on. My 4 wheel drive did not work. I have had this vehicle for 3 years and only put 20,000 miles on it. It has a little over 100.000 miles on it. It is gonna cost me 2400.00 to have this issue fixed. I noticed a lot of 2015 Ford Explorer Sport vehicles are having this concern! Please help us!! Thank you so much!
Water pump and leaking
This is the 4th time this has happened. When driving on the highway all of a sudden warning bells go off dashboard lights up indicating Terrain Fault. Power steering goes out almost causing me not to make my turn. I pull over and look and I have error about Power assist, terrain fault and one other I don’t remember. At this point I am under able to steer the vehicle. So I turn it off for a few minutes and restart it and what do you know…. Everything is just fine. This is very sporadic and by the time I take it in to read codes none are there. When I speak to the dealership they act like they have never heard of this happening.
Reading these
NHTSA publishes every complaint as the owner wrote it and investigates only a fraction. Spelling, capitalisation and judgement are the filer’s own. What carries weight is repetition: the same component failing the same way across many filings, and whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
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