A couple major flaws inside the engine draw excess oil into the combustion chamber where it is burned off. Not only does this mean the engine uses much more oil than advertised, but all that additional carbon buildup causes wear on ignition and emissions equipment.
The plaintiffs say the defects can cause the engine to suddenly stall or seize while driving and drastically reduces the trucks' resale value.
Wherever it is the problem affects nearly 16,000 vehicles:
It sounds like Ford is planning on swapping out the brackets even if they don't show any wear. It's a rare instance of an automaker being proactive instead of reactive. Embrace this moment.
]]>So while less than 1% will actually have the problem, it's imperative that all affected owners bring their SUVs in for inspection.
A defective driveshaft is no joke. At best you might suddenly find yourself unable to accelerate while driving. Or you might watch as your vehicle rolls away after parking. And then there's the chance your car could go BOOM after the deformed driveshaft ruptures the fuel tank.
The reference number for this recall is 20S65. If you believe you have one of these SUVs you should call Ford at 866-436-7332.
]]>The automaker’s ongoing technical problems remind me of another type of cluster.
]]>A 2017 class-action lawsuit accused Ford of cost-cutting when switching to the two-piece design. It also said the automaker is aware of the problems, but won’t honor its warranty by denying any lug nut related claims.
The case was recently dismissed because "the judge noted none of the plaintiffs presented their vehicles to Ford within the warranty periods." I’m no expert but if you're going to imply breach of warranty, make sure at least one of the plaintiffs was covered by a warranty that could be breached.
The dismissal is particularly frustrating because Ford isdenying claims to owners with valid warranties.
]]>_”They charged $8 each, so $160 plus tax to replace all. Even though we have the "extended warranty" there is no coverage from Ford. The vehicle has never been in snow or ice, no salted roads.” – 2014 Escape owner in FL
This is the 4th major expansion for Ford and includes the 2010 Edge, 2010-2011 Ranger, and 2010-2014 Mustang. The last expansion happened a year ago this month.
This dangerous saga has been going on for years and has affected over 50 million vehicles in the USA. The inflators have been blamed for multiple deaths, including two Ford Ranger drivers.
]]>the bad weld is between the A-bracket on the front seatback and the side member.
The seats will be replaced.
]]>Block heaters are made for cold climates. Road salt is too. I'm not sure how those blockheads forgot to shield those cables in the first place.
]]>the cars can experience clutch slips that cause elevated temperatures that damage the clutch plates.This may cause the transmission housings and clutch covers to leak transmission fluid.
Ford knew about the clutch plate fractures and the threat of fires as evidenced by a previous recall. But it wasn’t until European models with the same B6 transmission started to go up in smoke that Ford decided to expand its previous recall … I guess we could call it, effort?
The recall covers the 2016-2018 Focus with the 1-liter Fox GTDI engine and 6-speed manual transmission. The previous recall covered the 2013-2016 model years.
]]>The F-250 and F-350 trucks are equipped with electronic tailgates that can be opened with the key fobs, but five owners filed complaints saying the tailgates opened without warning and uncommanded.
In TSB #17-2196, Ford told its dealers that water could get into a wiring harness and cause “uncommanded tailgate openings” in Super Duty trucks. If the tailgate is down while driving, all the jostling can cause extensive damage.
Besides, no-one likes getting caught with their tailgate down.
]]>The plaintiff says he took the F-150 to a Ford dealer and technicians said there were no leaks on the brake lines or brake calipers but did find the brake booster was filled with brake fluid. Technicians removed and replaced the brake master cylinder and the brake booster, but the truck was out of the warranty period.
The previous recall only covered 2013 and 2014 model years with 3.5-liter engines. The plaintiff says that all F-150s, regardless of the engine, have had this issue since 2013.
]]>The recalled 2017-2018 GTs were built between 12/20/2016 and 07/31/2018.
]]>All 2013-2018 Ford F-150s use master cylinders supplied by Hitachi, with the pistons fitted with just a single cup seal responsible for containing pressurized brake fluid. The lawsuit alleges this is unusual because pistons within master cylinders are usually fitted with two cup seals to ensure that fluid does not leak out of the master cylinders.
These single-seal master cylinders have already been recalled for the 2013 and 2014 model years. But instead of changing the design, Ford replaced the defective part with – I bet you can see where this is going – new defective parts.
]]>There are so many recalls these days that it’s no longer shocking when brand new vehicles get called back for repairs. But it really makes you wonder wire these automakers can’t get their act together.
Puns aside, find out if your vehicle is affected here. It only takes a minute, so watt are you waiting for?
]]>Between April and October 2017, Ford knew of four reports of localized interior fires that occurred on 2015-2016 F-150s after the seat belt pretensioners deployed. An investigation on the four trucks was opened that focused on the front seat belt pretensioners (both retractor and lap anchor), electrical wiring, insulation and carpeting.
Pretensioners use a small explosive charge to lock the seat belt in place during an accident. Except, the F-150’s charges aren’t small and have been producing “excessive sparks” that smolder on interior panels and sometimes start a fire.
The recall covers both the Regular and SuperCrew Cabs.
]]>The jury ruled there was a design defect in the 1999 Ford Explorer when it was originally sold by Ford, a defect that caused the plaintiff to lose his arm. And when asked to determine how much Ford was responsible for his injuries, the jury ruled Ford held 90 percent liability.
On the surface, this sounds like a win for the little guy against a major corporation, but that line gets a bit blurry when you consider:
The details of the case almost have you sympathizing with Ford. But then you remember the company’s net worth is around $143 billion and they used cheap glass to save a few bucks back (at our expense) in 1999.
]]>Although agreeing to settle the case without the court deciding right or wrong, Ford continues to deny all liability and wrongdoing concerning the vehicles. The automaker says it decided to settle to get the matter over with and avoid the cost of further litigation.
This isn't the first time Ford has acted reluctant when it comes to Takata problems. Owners can expect to see the following benefits regardless of Ford doing it out of the kindness of their heart or the protection of their checkbooks.
The good: Ford will offer reimbursements for reasonable expenses incurred during an inflator replacement. This includes towing costs for getting your car to the shop, rental car or other transportation fees while waiting for a fix, and "lost wages" directly resulting from time lost from not having a car.
The bad: You and Ford might have a different definition of "reasonable."
The good: A customer support program will be setup to pay for repairs caused by an exploding inflator. This may include ripped seats, broken glass, etc.
The bad: Ford will determine if the inflator caused the damage. Also the program will end once an airbag deployes normally. Oh, and it won't apply to vehicles with salvaged, rebuilt, or flood-damaged titles.
The good: Ford will provide "incentives" to Ford customers who have ignored previous recall notices if they get their airbags repaired.
The bad: Shouldn't the owners that didn't ignore recall warnings get rewarded too? Nothing says "we appreciate you doing the right thing" like a few free oil changes and cash washes, amirite?
The good: Ford will create a rental or loaner car program for owners to use while waiting for their repairs.
The bad: Nothing really, although Ford does receive a credit of nearly $60 million off the total settlement for something it had already been doing for previous repairs.
]]>Ford also says the plaintiffs talk about swollen lug nuts as if the lug nuts should be indestructible and the warranties should last forever, then wrongly "attempt to cast their product-defect allegations as warranty, fraud and unjust-enrichment claims."
Should lug nuts last forever? Of course not. But they also shouldn't fuse into something harder than a diamond after 10,000 miles on the road.
A funny moment was when the plaintiffs raised the question, should the automaker be allowed to call themselves Ford Tough with problems like this? Ford said the term is advertising "puffery".
Whoa, whoa, so it's all marketing? Next you'll tell me Chevy trucks aren't actually made out of rocks too.
]]>The affected trucks were built between 08/10/2005 to 12/15/2005, and 08/05/2005 to 11/04/2005.
]]>The "complimentary service" program only lasts until December 31st of this year. The CAS is looking for something more permanent, saying it is possible that Ford and Ford’s customers have just been lucky up until this point, but the time for Ford to take more serious action is now, before that luck runs out.
Now I can hardly remember what it feels like to have hope at all. Especially as we stare down the barrel of another recall expansion for passenger-side inflators in the Mustang, Edge, Fusion, and Ranger. CarComplaints.com has information on which model years and zones.
Across the industry 3.3 million vehicles are getting called back. There have been more confirmed casualties due to the inflators, and now there’s a stop-driving order for certain Ranger owners before it happens again.
It’s no wonder US Senators have started asking questions. Ooo, I have a question – what the heck took them so long?
]]>I imagine the decision to put the SUVs back into service wasn't easy, but multiple steps were taken following Ford's "special program" for Police Interceptors was announced:
In the future the Austin PD says it plans on buying a more diverse set of vehicles to avoid having to take an entire fleet of vehicles off the roads all at once.
]]>“NHTSA says the request for additional testing by the automakers isn't reasonable based on the data that has been collected.”
This isn’t a no harm, no foul situation. Delaying the recall puts people’s lives at risk and it’s not a good look for Ford.
]]>_The 2017 trucks are equipped with 10-speed automatic transmissions that can remain in gear no matter where the gear shift lever is positioned. Ford says a pin that attaches the transmission shift linkage to the transmission can come out, leaving the shift lever unable to change gears.
In other words, the shift lever might say “park” while the transmission is still very much in “drive.” Until the fix is ready, now would be a very good time to become friends with your parking brake.
]]>Austin police officer Ryan Hancock says his symptoms (nausea, headaches and vision problems ) continued the next day and caused him to seek medical help. According to the lawsuit, tests conducted at the hospital showed his symptoms were from carbon monoxide poisoning. Furthermore, the plaintiff says his nervous system has been damaged by the fumes.
Hancock is represented by Brian Chase, the same attorney repressing officer Zachary LaHood in another carbon monoxide lawsuit against the automaker.
A common theme in these lawsuits is pointing to a series of Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) which show Ford has known about the dangerous problem for years.
]]>By calling it a “service campaign,” the automaker doesn’t have to follow the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) rules for notifying all owners. Instead, only owners who hear about the campaign through other means will get the repairs.
The service campaign also has a deadline – December 31, 2018. While recalls aren’t open-ended, they come with a specific expiration date and are always performed within a reasonable timeframe.
Bottom line: a service campaign with an expiration date 14 months from now means less owners will hear about it → the less that hear about it, the less that get it repaired → the less that get it repaired, the more money Ford saves.
]]>Ford announced "complimentary service" for 1.4 million model year 2011-2017 non-police Explorers in North America. Ford insists the SUVs are perfectly safe to drive and the "complimentary service" is not an official recall.
For whatever reason, Ford appears dead set against recalling this problem. In July 2017, the automaker created a “special program” to fix carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in Explorer Interceptor police vehicles.
Since then, Ford has been adamant that exhaust smells in the cabin and CO exposure are different beasts.
“Ford says carbon monoxide concerns in Explorer Police Interceptor SUVs are caused by unsealed holes and gaps from the installation of police equipment by third parties. That's something that doesn't apply to non-police models.”
Of course, that doesn’t jive with stories from owners who report elevated CO levels coming through the rear auxiliary air conditioning unit when the engine is running at higher RPMs.
Two months ago, a 2017 Explorer owner filed a lawsuit after admitting herself to the hospital after driving her SUV for a long distance. The plaintiff experienced dizziness and nausea, and spent three days at the Henry Ford Hospital in Clinton Township, Michigan. The doctors said her carbon monoxide levels were "high normal."
Recall or not, this “complimentary service” is good news for Explorer owners.
Ford will replace the lift-gate drain valves, re-program the air conditioners, and sealing the rear of the SUVs. These are similar procedures to those outlined in a July 2014 Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 14-0130). In other words, Ford has known about these issues for a long time, they just didn’t necessarily want you to know they know. You know?
The service is available for any non-police 2011-2017 Explorers (regardless of mileage or warranty) between November 1, 2017, and December 31, 2018.
At this time, it doesn’t appear NHTSA has closed their investigation which leaves the door open for a recall.
]]>“Ford says all these CO levels are well below any standards, especially since investigators found only “momentary" levels that quickly disappeared. In addition, when investigators allegedly drove the SUVs without using wide-open throttles, the carbon monoxide levels were zero.”
NHTSA took Ford’s “there’s nothing to see here” conclusion under advisement, and then promptly upgraded their investigation to an “engineering analysis.” They also expanded it to include the 2011-2017 Explorer, roughly 840,000 vehicles total.
Game on.
]]>This leaves owners and lessees who get flat tires often stranded on the roads without the ability for even tow truck drivers to remove the swollen lug nuts. This means a tow to the shop just to have the lug nuts removed and the tire replaced.
The two-piece capped lug nuts are cheaper than a one-piece stainless plug, but they look nice because of the cap. Most owners never think twice about the lug nut when buying a vehicle, only to be met with this headache down the road.
]]>[Plaintiff Mary] Boatner says that on July 6 she drove the Explorer from Alabama to Michigan and noticed a strong chemical odor. Ms. Boatner rolled down her windows for fresh air but the odor was still there … When Ms. Boatner arrived in Michigan, and for several days thereafter, she allegedly experienced restlessness, lack of focus, fatigue, nausea and headaches.
Mrs. Boatner owns a 2017 Explorer, which falls outside the scope of the current NHTSA investigation.
There were hints the problem was bigger than just the 2011-2015 model years. Ford’s own program to fix Police Interceptor Explorers included the 2016-2017 model years.
The lawsuit says the problem exists in the newest Explorers, and interesting names the 2007-2013 Ford Edge and 2007-2015 Lincoln MKX as well.
]]>Ford has been working with police departments to inspect the SUVs and seal any spaces created when aftermarket police-related equipment was installed in the rear of the Explorers.
]]>“Unlike the tens of millions of airbag inflators already recalled in millions of vehicles, the 2.7 million inflators have a drying agent (desiccant) called calcium sulfate used to protect the explosive chemical, ammonium nitrate, from moisture.”
That’s all well and good, but here’s the thing – Takata believed the desiccant was going to keep the airbags safe but then they tested them. The result? Not so safe.
“Takata says airbag inflators with calcium sulfate returned from the field have experienced no ruptures in ballistic tests, but some of the inflators did show a pattern of the ammonium nitrate losing density.”
That lost density is a warning sign that these airbags could also experience inflator ruptures in the future.
]]>“The repair program does not apply to non-police Explorers because owners of those vehicles report exhaust fumes entering the cabins, while Explorer Police Interceptor drivers report getting sick from carbon monoxide.”
Since when are fumes entering the cabin are ok?
Internal combustion engines produce lots of carbon monoxide. If there’s a defect in the exhaust manifold or something wrong with the catalytic converter, it’s not likely CO is entering the cabin before it gets converted to something less toxic.
]]>Out of 2,719 complaints filed to NHTSA, there were 41 reported injuries and 3 crashes. For what it’s worth, NHTSA says there’s currently no proof that carbon monoxide caused these problems.
Ford, meanwhile, has received 1,254 warranty claims, 606 reports from dealers and 55 legal claims.
What. A. Nightmare.
]]>“City officials are considering taking about 400 of the Ford Explorer Police Interceptor SUVs completely off the roads until someone can determine what is causing the problems.”
City officials want the SUVs off the road, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is in town investigating … so where the heck is Ford in all of this?
]]>In April 2017, [an] officer was driving in Henderson, Louisiana, when she passed out and the Ford Explorer police SUV flipped over. Local media reports say the officer was taken to a hospital and tests confirmed she suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning … According to witnesses, the Explorer wasn't speeding and state authorities say there is no evidence alcohol played a part in the crash.
Consumers are complaining of headaches, police departments are installing CO detectors across their Explorer fleets, and officers are passing out, flipping over, and landing in canals. This is as cringeworthy as it gets.
]]>A Ford Explorer exhaust leak lawsuit is over as a federal judge granted the wishes of Ford to dismiss the proposed class-action lawsuit.
“The lawsuit never made it to the class-action stage as the plaintiff couldn't prove his case. The judge ruled the plaintiff didn't provide enough details to prove the Ford Explorer has defects that allow exhaust fumes and carbon monoxide to enter the cabin.”
This is a setback, but not a death blow for Explorer owners wanting nationwide action for carbon monoxide poisoning. The plaintiff in this case was given a chance to amend his complaint, but failed to do so.
]]>The settlement, once approved by a federal judge, will include about 1.5 million model year 2011-2016 Ford Fiesta and 2012-2016 Ford Focus cars with automatic transmissions that caused Ford to issue two customer satisfaction programs.
The full settlement details are complex, but will provide owners with options such as cash payments, reimbursements, or credits towards the purchase of a new car with a arbitration-monitored buyback from Ford.
Replacement clutches should come with a 2-year warranty.
The case being settled was filed in California back in 2015. Similar lawsuits were filed in Illinois and Texas as recently as earlier this month.
]]>Police officials say recent reports suggest officers may be getting ill from carbon monoxide poisoning in the SUVs, a problem serious enough that a safety bulletin was released on February 27, 2017.
The bulletin says two incidents have been reported within the Austin PD after an officer got lightheaded while driving the Explorer, and another report of a suspicious odor experienced by a sergeant driving an SUV.
Nearly three years ago, a Florida resident sued Ford after feeling sick from exhaust fumes entering the cabin of her Explorer.
The police department plans to use stickers that change color if CO is detected, costing about $50 per vehicle. Carbon monoxide detectors are often required by law in the home, are cars next?
]]>The dual-clutch lawsuit alleges the vehicles suffer from a long list of problems including shuddering, slipping, bucking, jerking, hesitation while changing gears, premature internal wear, delays in downshifting and sudden or delayed acceleration.
Where have we heard that before? Oh that's right, California and Illinois have similar class-action lawsuits on the docket.
This case, however, is the first to add the EcoSport to the list of affected models.
]]>The lawsuit didn't even cover all the models or years affected by this problem. And now that it's going away, the complaints seem to be picking up as more cars exit their warranty period (because life is fun like that).
And oh, by the way, an out-of-warranty repair costs about $2,000.
]]>"The plaintiff wants Ford to pay damages and equitable relief, fix all vehicles named in the lawsuit by replacing the electronic throttle bodies, inform consumers through advertising campaigns about the dangers of sudden unintended deceleration and educate consumers about their pre-purchase or pre-lease legal rights once all the facts are known."
In 2014, Ford issued a "customer satisfaction program" that has done little to, well ... satisfy any customers. The lawsuit argues:
I bet you know the script by now:
Ford – including Lincoln and Mercury – has now recalled over 3 million vehicles for this problem. Find out if yours is on the most recent list and make sure to scroll through all the different recall "zones."
]]>The lawsuit refers to over 80 complaints sent to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) across 16 different models with sudden holes in their roofs. According to most, Ford is refusing to fix shattered sunroofs under warranty.
Speaking of shattered, let's talk about hopes for a minute. We recently learned the lawsuit was dropped without a settlement. But don't cue up the sad trombone just yet. Help us keep the pressure on Ford by adding a complaint if you've had any sunroof problems.
]]>Owners complain about vehicles that lose power while driving, leaving drivers urgently pressing the gas pedals to no avail.Symptoms typically include seeing a "wrench light" illuminated with the words, "See Manual," all while the SUV loses speed as it enters "limp home mode."
If this has happened to you than you'll be happy to hear an investigation has been opened to determine if a lawsuit is needed. It's not as helpful as a recall, but it's a step in the right direction. The investigation is focusing on the throttle body – a part, which many owners have told us, is not readily available.
]]>According to a proposed class-action lawsuit, a stuck purge valve is causing the 2012-15 Ford Focus engine to run rough and sometimes even stall. Additionally, the valve is causing problems with the gas gauge. This isn't the first time we've heard of this issue:
""My vehicle's fuel tank is compressing due to a faulty vacuum purge valve requiring a new tank, fuel pump and purge valve. This issue has caused my vehicle to stall in freeway traffic @ approx 60 mph and to stall in stop and go traffic. – 2012 Focus owner"
While we wait to see what happens with the lawsuit, let us know if you've had any issues with a struggling engine or stalling.
]]>Now that the investigation is closing, we'd like to raise a glass of eggnog – the spiked variety – to the owners who filed their complaints online and got the problem fixed.
]]>"In addition to denying the electromechanical relays are defective, Ford says the claims should be dismissed because the alleged defects, if they exist, occurred during manufacturing at different times and with different models. Due to this, the plaintiffs cannot claim a "common defect" is associated with the Focus and Fusion cars."
The original lawsuit was filed two years ago by owners complaining about power steering issues in the 2012-14 Focus and 2010-14 Fusion.
For the record, this isn't the first time Ford has asked for a motion to dismiss a power steering class-action lawsuit. They were denied. Fingers crossed that happens again.
]]>Ford says the recalled 2015-16 Ford Edge SUVs were brought in for service repairs and were loaded with the wrong anti-lock braking system (ABS) software.
So how much harm could a little mistake like that do? Well, for starters it can disable the vehicle's electronic stability control, engine torque control, and traction control. Oh, also – also! – the electronic parking brake light and the ability to release the parking brake entirely.
It's like the Beach Boys said in that song, "and we'll have fun, fun, fun, until Ford gives me the wrong software and my car loses all control". Or something like that
(I'm not good with lyrics).
]]>Federal safety regulators are investigating 2015-2016 Ford F-150 trucks after reports of brake pedals going to the floorboards, a complete loss of brakes and dealerships diagnosing the problems as caused by faulty master cylinders.
We've all heard about putting the pedal to metal, you just never want that to happen with the pedal on the left.
If all this master cylinder / brake talk sounds familiar, it's because the 2013 and 2014 model years were recalled for the same issue earlier this year. I guess that's one box still unchecked on the Ford engineer's to-do list.
]]>Ford doesn't think there's enough complaints to warrant a recall, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is going to look at 1,560 complaints as part of an investigation.
You can help put pressure on Ford and NHTSA by [adding your complaint][3].
Ford recently recalled 2.3 million vehicles for defective door latches that didn't properly hold the door shut. That would be consistent with a warning light, eh? Unfortunately the Edge was not part of the recall.
]]>It's likely NHTSA asked Ford to expand the recall because all affected vehicles weren't included in the August recall. That recall was for only certain areas of the country which Ford said had higher ambient temperatures. Vehicles outside those specific areas weren't included in the recall, but Ford said they could be included in a "customer satisfaction program.
So much for the "solar loading" defense.
]]>If the court finalizes the settlement, the plaintiffs will include anyone who purchased or leased a 2011-2015 Ford Explorer from Florida Ford dealerships.
Well, that’s great for Florida residents but it stinks for everyone else. And Explorer owners know all about what stinks.
Hopefully this settlement will lay the groundwork for future action nationwide.
]]>The automaker provided very limited information but did say the power window system can exceed the "regulatory requirement for remote actuation closing force."
That's a really fancy way of saying the windows slam. Ford hasn't announced when the recall will begin.
]]>The automaker says the fuel injection pump may malfunction and cause the engine to fail to start or the engine may stall without warning, leaving the driver without the ability to restart the van.
Ford didn't say when the recall will begin because that would be helpful. They did say dealerships will need to inspect the fuel system for metallic contamination.
]]>"Recalled are the 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5-liter gasoline turbocharged direct injection engines. Also included are 2013-2015 Ford Police Interceptors with all engine types."
There are limited details on when the recall will begin, however build dates of the affected vehicles have been released.
]]>Unlike the previous recall, however, this one will only take place in what Ford is calling areas of "higher ambient temperature."
"In the U.S., those vehicles are recalled only if they were sold in, or ever registered in these states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Oregon and Washington.
Does that include incinerators? Because that's where owners outside the recall zone might be sending their Fords soon.
]]>Ford says a recall of 830,000 vehicles in North America is needed to fix doors that may open while driving, but only if those vehicles are in certain areas.
This comes after the feds opened an investigation into 400,000 Focus cars experiencing similar problems to a door latch recall from last year.
The regional recall is limited to areas of "higher ambient temperatures and solar loading." I guess "solar loading" is another term for we really don't wanna do another national recall. This includes cars ever registered or sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Oregon and Washington.
]]>“Ford is on the receiving end of a proposed class-action lawsuit filed in a California court. The lawsuit claims the system is a safety hazard because it often fails and can cause serious problems with the defroster and rear-view camera.”
Common complaints about MyFord Touch include a terrible navigation experience, rear-view camera failure, issues controlling the temperature, no way to turn on the defroster, and more.
]]>Typical complaints say exhaust fumes enter the cabins while the Explorers are operating at full throttle, such as when going uphill or merging onto freeways. Owners of the 2011-2015 Ford Explorers also say the fumes can be triggered by turning on the air conditioning in recirculation mode.
The smells have led to headaches, nausea, and concerns of carbon monoxide poisoning.
NHTSA says nearly 639,000 model year 2011-2015 Ford Explorer SUVs are included in the investigation.
]]>Ford says the faulty control units can cause problems with electronic stability control, roll stability control, anti-lock braking, emergency brake assist, curve control, trailer sway control and traction control.
Well, doesn't that sound fun.
In the most Ford move ever, Ford announced it doesn't know when the recall will begin.
]]>The automaker says the 2015-2016 Focus Electric cars have differential pinion shafts that can wear out and cause the shafts to fracture. If this occurs, the car will lose motive ability without warning and lose the ability of the transmission to shift into PARK.
Indefinite road trip!
]]>The automaker says the seatback may not have been properly welded and could fail to hold the driver in a crash.
The recall is expected to start on August 15th, 2016.
]]>The results of all that computer code can be seen in a study conducted by J.D. Power concerning software-related complaints and recalls. According to the study, in the past five years alone, vehicle owners have filed more than 2,000 software-related complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
I wonder how many of those complaints are about MyFord Touch?
]]>The one test that gave the Mustang problems was the small overlap test where the roof buckled and there was a lot of intrusion into the driver's space. That intrusion came from the door hinge pillar and instrument panel, however, measurements taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of injuries, even to the legs and feet.
To be fair, everyone seems to be flunking that side-overlap test.
]]>Takata's inflators don't contain a drying agent called desiccate. Over time, the ammonium nitrate inside the inflator can become unstable when exposed to heat and humidity. If they do explode, metal shrapnel can shoot throughout the cabin and has injured, or in some cases killed the people inside. Yikes!
Parts are scarce right now, so owners should get an initial recall notice in the mail, and then another notice when parts become available.
]]>Ford says the problem only affects the front wheels, so rear braking isn't affected. But that wasn't enough to stop 9 accidents, however, which have all been attributed to the sudden loss of stopping power.
The recalled trucks are from the 2013 and 2014 model years. They all have the 3.5-liter GTDI engine and were built between 08/01/13 and 08/22/14.
]]>Ford opened customer satisfaction program 15N05 that **extends warranty coverage for the electric vacuum pumps in 2011-2012 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. The satisfaction program extends warranty coverage for up to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date.
"All affected F-150 trucks are eligible for the program through July 30, 2016, regardless of mileage."
You say customer satisfaction program, I say recall. Po-tay-to, Po-tah-to I suppose.
The original investigation was opened in June 2015 and upgraded a few months later. Make sure to contact your local dealer by July 30th if you've been having problems.
]]>Ford Says a "bad combination of the engine block and heater can cause the heater to catch on fire, something that has occurred at least two times in Canada. Fortunately the fires didn't cause any accidents or injuries.
Ford didn't say when the recall will begin.
]]>Maybe they should look again.
NHTSA admits the problem is a safety hazard, but said Ford's recent changes to the powertrain control module (PCM) software during a "customer satisfaction program" should be enough to limit the issue. But that remains to be seen.
The original investigation included 200,000 model year 2011-2012 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 super-duty trucks equipped with 6.7-liter diesel engines.
The "customer satisfaction program" came after NHTSA's original investigation, and includes a warranty on EGT sensors up to 8 years or 80,000 miles for some trucks.
]]>A new investigation hopes to pull back the curtain:
"The no-leak symptom is what makes NHTSA believe the fluid is moving from the master cylinder to the brake booster. In addition to that, some owners told NHTSA that Ford dealers have said the same thing."
The investigation covers 2013-2014 F-150 trucks equipped with 3.5-liter engines. If the problem is confirmed, it should prompt a recall.
]]>This isn't surprising.
If the current investigation determines that the Focus uses the same defective pawl springs that were recalled last year, and Ford knew about it, then that's potentially a criminal offense. Or, at the very least, really crappy of them.
]]>The plaintiff claims Ford has never publicly admitted the PowerShift transmission is defective, but instead conceals the problems by saying the transmission is working correctly.
Ford insists the transmission works correctly, but they've also issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and Customer Satisfaction Programs to address the problems.
It's almost as if they can't get their mind in gear.
]]>You've probably heard about Takata by now. They're the ones that made airbag inflators that explode with too much force and sometimes send metal shrapnel flying throughout the cabin. They're also the ones that have been linked to a number of deaths and injuries.
But wait, there's more! Replacement parts aren't even expected to be available until later this year.
Needless to say, Takata isn't going to make anyone's holiday card list this year.
]]>The original investigation involved the Fiesta. It was later expanded to include the Fusion. And now the 2012-2013 Focus will get an investigation of their own.
The problem can be traced to busted pawl springs which allow the door to shut without ever latching. When that happens, owners may see a "door ajar" warning light or have their doors open while going around a corner.
My guess is the investigation will be to determine if the Focus used the same pawl springs as the other cars. If so, Focus owners should expect a recall soon.
]]>"NHTSA determined the Ford Edge wheel failed because a severe impact caused a crack in the wheel that eventually expanded around the wheel. Based on the evidence, investigators saw a rough appearance that showed a rapid stress fracture but no abnormalities or unique features associated with the site of the fracture."
NHTSA did say it will continue to monitor complaints, so if you've had similar issues tell us about it here.
]]>The question becomes, how many other Ford vehicles use the same defective pawl springs?
]]>The expanded investigation found issues with the pawl spring tabs, which can break and allow the doors to open while driving. Needless to say, that's a safety no-no and led to the recall.
]]>Complaints have kept pouring in since the original investigation was opened, and now the government says 207 reports have been filed with NHTSA and another 451 reports were filed directly with Ford. NHTSA says 65 of its complaints claim the doors opened while the cars were in motion.
The original investigation was opened late last year.
]]>The lawsuit alleges the transmission was manufactured defective and is causing Fiesta and Focus owners nothing but headaches. Owners complain about vehicles that lurch forward, experience delayed acceleration, delayed downshifting and vehicles that have trouble stopping.
The lawsuit says that all the shuddering leads to premature failure and costly repairs. Repairs that Ford, allegedly, isn't covering under its standard warranty.
PowerShift transmissions are supposed to provide the efficiency of a manual, with the ease on an automatic. Unlike other automatic transmissions with torque converters, PowerShift uses two clutches that hand off responsibility to one another. And if this lawsuit is any indication, they're doing a terrible job.
]]>Ford is taking NHTSA's advice and issuing a new recall for over 500,000 cars nationwide. The recall includes the 2005-2008 Mustangs and 2005-2006 GT.
]]>“Ford filed the motion to dismiss by claiming it wasn't responsible for breach of warranty claims because Sanchez-Knutson bought her Ford Explorer from a dealer, not directly from Ford. U.S. District Judge William Dimitrouleas didn't buy that argument, and he further rejected Ford's claim that only the federal government has jurisdiction in the exhaust claims.”
The original TSB (12-12-4) from December 2012 was later superseded by TSB 14-0130 in July 2014. The newer document outlines software changes to the recirculation mode of the air conditioning during full throttle.
Ford tried to downplay the TSBs by saying they aren’t disclosures or admissions of any defect, just a set of instructions for mechanics. The judge didn’t buy it.
Man, they must be fuming.
(I’ll see myself out)
]]>"The government says it's received 61 complaints about doors that won't latch in the 2011-2013 Ford Fiesta. Some Fiesta owners said the doors opened after being shut and while the cars were moving. One person reported an injury after the door flew back open and struck the individual."
Owners have been sharing interesting stories about their doors lately, like this 2011 owner who has to keep their door strapped shut to stop it from swinging open. Or this other 2011 owner that says the "door ajar" light won't shut off — even when the door is clearly closed — and that can drain the battery if they're not careful.
The investigation is focusing on 205,000 Fiestas from the 2011-2013 model years.
]]>What – Inflators are controlled exposions that deploy the airbags in the event of a crash. Takata's inflators are failing under pressure and exploding with too much force, so when the airbag deploys, sharp metal shrapnel from the inflator also shoots out into the cabin. The inflators were first recalled in 3 million vehicles, none of them Fords, last year.
Where – The inflators are failing in places of higher humidity which is why this is a regional recall limited to vehicles originally sold or currently registered in Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
When – Neither Ford or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released a date for the recall. You can call Ford at 800-392-3673 and reference recall number 14B04.
]]>“The lawsuit claims independent testing of the Ford Explorer confirmed carbon monoxide was entering the cabin of the vehicle while it was being driven.”
The CO allegedly builds up when the auxiliary rear air conditioning is on and the engine is running at a higher RPM. This matches up with other stories told by owners to CarComplaints.com, saying the problem also happens during heavy acceleration:
“When I accelerate fast, the exhaust enters the vehicle from the AC unit. 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, never mind sitting in the 3rd row! You would probably die a silent death rather quickly!”
None of this should come as a surprise to Ford, considering they issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 12-12-4) in December 2012 titled Explorer Exhaust Odor in Vehicle.
The TSB tells mechanics how to respond if a customer makes a stink about the stank:
]]>“Some 2011 - 2013 Explorer vehicles may exhibit an exhaust odor in the vehicle with the auxiliary climate control system on. Customers may indicate the odor smells like sulfur. This Technical Service Bulletin contains steps to correct the condition, including replacing the left side rear air extractor, installing a new drain valve, and applying new layers of undercoating.”
There is no scheduled date for the recall to begin, but owners should be on the lookout for a notification soon from Ford.
]]>The EcoBoost engine uses twin turbochargers that compress air to increase the engine's power, and what Ford found was condensation building up inside of the air cooler tubes. When the condensation is high enough, up to three cylinders can misfire.
Ford blames EPA regulations, but finger pointing aside at least they've acknowledged the issue and that's why this is good news. It's something GM owners wish would have happened to them a decade ago.
If you have problems with your engine misfiring, definitely bring your truck in for repairs. NHTSA said they will continue to monitor complaints about the affected trucks.
]]>This recall also affects vehicles in the Canada because in case you didn't know, it snows up there sometimes and they're pretty familiar with road salt as well. The following provinces are affected: New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec.
Ford is aware of at least one crash related to this issue, but thankfully no injuries occurred. Dealers will install a cross-brace reinforcement to make sure the lower control arm stays in place. No word yet on when that will start.
]]>The affected vehicles have 2.5L or 3.0L engines.
All vehicles are eligible for the program through January 31, 2015, regardless of mileage, according to the NHTSA.
"Owners of the affected vehicles will be contacted by mail to take their vehicle to a Ford dealer who will reprogram the powertrain control module to the latest calibration," said NHTSA in its summary of the investigation.
Owners should have received a letter from Ford, but if you didn’t, call them at 800–392–3673.
]]>Ford is recalling 9,500 Escapes because a previous recall might not have fixed the problem. The affected vehicles were manufactured from October 5, 2011, through July 11, 2012. Ford says the engine compartment fuel line may have been installed incorrectly when repaired under the prior recall. The placement of the fuel line could cause irritation to the line and cause it to leak.
All affected vehicles, repaired or otherwise, need to be inspected.
]]>Ford says it's related to the angle of the drive shaft. Or in Ford's words 'driveline windup'," complained the upset Ford owner. “Since they haven't been able to find a similar truck without the problem, they've washed their hands of the problem by claiming it's ‘characteristic’ of the vehicle and an ‘acceptable’ vibration. It's not acceptable to me."
The V6 EcoBoost is an option in the 2010-2013 Ford Flex, Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKT and Lincoln MKS; the 2011-2013 Ford F-150; and the 2013 Ford Explorer Sport.
]]>Ford said the engine compartment fuel line could split and leak fuel, which could cause the SUV to go up in smoke.The affected vehicles are equipped with the 1.6L EcoBoost engine and total about 11,500 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.
Ford is so concerned about these fires they don't even want you driving to the dealership for repairs. Instead, they'll arrange to have your Escape towed. Seriously.
]]>