Recalls: Ford Explorer
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Ford Explorer
- Over three separate notices, UN, UQ, US and UT Explorer models fitted with cruise control and manufactured from 1995 to 2002 were recalled (PRA 2006/8836, PRA 2007/9665 and PRA 2010/11406). For these vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch mounted on the brake master cylinder may leak and brake fluid contamination in the electrical connector could cause the wiring to overheat, smoke or burn – this could occur when the vehicle was parked or being driven, irrespective of whether the cruise control was in use.
- In May 1998, a recall was issued for certain 1997 and 1998 model year Ford Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, line damage may occur if the fuel line bracket was used as the negative (ground) location when jump starting (PRA 1998/3535).
- In December 1998, a recall was issued for Ford Explorer vehicles due to the floor mats potentially interfering with the accelerator pedal – this could result in the engine not returning to idle and unexpected acceleration (PRA 1998/3729).
- In June 1999, a recall was issued for UN and UP Explorer models manufactured from 29 May 1996 to 11 May 1999 and fitted with the 4.0-litre SOHC petrol engine and cruise control. For these vehicles, the cruise control cable may interfere with the cruise control servo pulley and not allow the throttle to return to idle when disengaging the cruise control. If the cruise control was used and this occurred, the throttle may stick as a result (PRA 1999/3963).
- In August 1999, a recall was issued for 1998 and 1999 Ford Explorer models manufactured prior to 17 May 1999. In the affected vehicles, the secondary bonnet latch may stick due to corrosion. If the primary latch was not engaged during the vehicle’s operation, the secondary latch could remain open such that the bonnet may unexpectedly fly up (PRA 1999/4041).
- In June 2000, a recall was issued for certain 1999 and 2000 model year Ford Explorervehicles manufactured from 19 May 1999 to 21 December 1999 inclusive, but excluding vehicles with load levelling and/or memory seat options. For the affected vehicles, the Generic Electronic Module (GEM) may exhibit a loss of some accessory functions, including the front windscreen wipers – in inclement weather, this could result in reduced driver visibility (PRA 2000/4351).
- In February 2001, a recall was issued for Ford Explorer vehicles due to one or both of the front sway bar links potentially breaking in freezing conditions (PRA 2001/4643).
- In April 2001, a recall was issued for Ford Explorer vehicles for a powertrain calibration update (PRA 2001/4720).
- In May 2001, a recall was issued for certain UQ and US Explorer models fitted with the 4.0-litre SOHC petrol engine and manufactured up to 31 March 2000 inclusive. For the affected vehicles, the powertrain control module (PCM) could allow the vehicle to exceed the intended design top speed. At these speeds, the vehicle may exceed the speed rating of the tyres (PRA 2001/4746).
- In May 2001, a recall was issued for Explorer models fitted with the 4.0-litre SOHC petrol engine and manufactured from 29 May 1996 to 18 September 1998. For these vehicles, the throttle may stick at idle and cause unexpected acceleration (PRA 2001/4770).
- In September 2003, a recall was issued for certain UP, UQ and US Explorer models due to potential fracturing of a bolt which attached the seat recliner mechanism to the driver’s seatback frame (PRA 2003/6485).
Problems and faults: Ford Explorer
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: Ford Explorer
- Clunking noises from the front of the Ford Explorer may be due to wear of the front suspension ball joints.
- Rattling noises from the Explorer’s engine bay may be due to the timing chains, indicating that the tensioners require replacement. If not, the tensioners may break and the loose chain can cause serious engine damage.
