Owners have filed 1,048 complaints
about the 1995 Ford Explorer with NHTSA between 1995 and 2019.
The largest single group is the tires.
Across this model's run it ranks 16 of 34 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 43
Against the median year of the Ford Explorer. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
22.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 10
6% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
10.8%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
10.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
54.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
119.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1714.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
4839.7%
150,000+ miles
3831.4%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 1995peak 64May 2019
NHTSA investigations into the 1995 Ford Explorer
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
1
investigation is
still open.
RQ99016Opened 29 Jul 1999Still openSTRUCTURE
LIFTGATE SUPPORT BRACKET FAILURE
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 REC...
EA02011Opened 2 Jul 2002Closed 21 May 2003SEAT BELTS
SAFETY BELT ASSEMBLY FAILURE
ODI RECEIVED 18 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND FORD IDENTIFIED ANOTHER FOUR REPORTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ALLEGED DEFECT.MOST OF THE COMPLAINTS INDICATE INABILITY TO LATCH THE DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE CAUSED BY A BROKEN LATCH RELEASE SPRING.NONE OF THESE 22 REPORTS RESULTED IN ANY INJURIES OR CRASHES.NO COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED IN THE PAST 6 MONTHS.FORD CONDUCTED LIFE-CYCLE TESTING ON 6 FIELD SAMPLE BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES.THE RESULTS OF THAT TESTING DEMONSTRATED THAT THE TESTED BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES COULD BE EXPECTED TO OPERATE PROPERLY BEYOND THE EXPECTED LIFE OF THE VEHICLE.BASED ON THE LIMITED NUMBER OF...
PE02007Opened 23 Jan 2002Closed 2 Jul 2002SEAT BELTS
SAFETY BELT ASSEMBLY
PE00039Opened 20 Sep 2000Closed 30 Nov 2000SUSPENSION
FRONT SUSPENSION STABILIZER BAR LINK
PE99068Opened 1 Nov 1999Closed 9 Mar 2000POWER TRAIN
ACCELERATOR PEDAL
PE97010Opened 13 Mar 1997Closed 4 Sep 1997ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ELECTRICAL FIRE IN CENTER CONSOLE
THIS INVESTIGATION REVEALED THAT CONSOLE FIRES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MOST OFTEN OCCURRED WHILE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE LAMP OUTAGE MODULE (LOM), WHICH IS PART OF THE MESSAGE CENTER, WERE TOWING A TRAILER AND WHICH HAD BEEN MODIFIED BY ADDING AN AFTERMARKET TRAILER WIRING HARNESS INTO THE VEHICLE'S TAILLIGHT CIRCUITS.THE OWNER'S MANUAL STATES NEVER AND MORE THAN OTHER TRAILER LIGHT BULB TO ONE CIRCUIT HOWEVER TRAILERS FREQUENTLY CONTAIN SEVERAL BULBS.THE RESULTING EXCESS CURRENT PASSING THROUGH THE LOM COULD CAUSE IT TO OVERHEAT RESULTING IN A FIRE.PROPER AFTERMARKET INSTALLATION OF TRAILE...
Recalls on the 1995 Ford Explorer
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
09V399000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
Risk: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
09E025000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
09E012000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
06E026000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
01X001000
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
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.
00V402000
SUSPENSION
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, A FRONT SWAY BAR LINK CAN FRACTURE.
Risk: VEHICLE HANDLING COULD BE AFFECTED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
00T005000
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
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.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE HYDRAULIC LIFT CYLINDER BRACKET WELDS COULD FRACTURE.
Risk: WITH A BROKEN BRACKET WELD, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE LIFTGATE BRACKET TO GRADUALLY BEND INWARD ALLOWING THE LIFT CYLINDER BALL STUD TO DISENGAGE, UNEXPECTEDLY ALLOWING THE LIFTGATE TO FALL FROM AN OPEN POSITION.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2009292492,877 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn, potentially resulting in an underhood fire. The condition may occur either when the vehicle is parked or when it is in operation. Correction: Dealers will install a new switch or fused wiring harness. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2005028 (05S28) for vehicles not previously included in the campaign.
Recall 200029725,586 units in Canada
Suspension
On certain vehicles, the front stabilizer bar link stud can fracture from bending fatigue. This can result in increased vehicle lean or the driver may sense a feeling of looseness in the steering. Above 80 km/h drivers may experience vehicle wander or sway. Correction: Dealers will install 10mm front left and right stabilizer bar links.
Recall 199922418,972 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, the hydraulic lift cylinders are attached to brackets that are welded to the liftgate. under certain conditions, the bracket welds may fracture due to the brackets being inadvertently mislocated relative to the liftgate. There may be a potential for the liftgate bracket to gradually bend inward which might allow the liftgate cylinder ball stud to disengage. Correction: Reinforcement brackets will be installed.
Recall 1995071166 units in Canada
Brakes
THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH C.M.V.S.S. 105 - HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEMS. THE BRAKE TUBES FROM THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT MAY NOT BE ROUTED CORRECTLY. CORRECTION: NEW BRAKE TUBES WILL BE INSTALLED AND, IF NECESSARY, A NEW MASTER CYLINDER WILL BE INSTALLED.
Recall 19950561,720 units in Canada
Steering
THE INNER TIE ROD ON THESE VEHICLES MAY FRACTURE. IF THE TIE ROD FRACTURES, STEERING CONTROL COULD BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE CRASH. CORRECTION: VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED AND INNER TIE RODS WILL BE REPLACED IF NECESSARY.
Recall 1995032398 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
THE PASSENGER SIDE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG) MAY HAVE A CRACKED INFLATOR BODY. IF THE VEHICLE IS INVOLVED IN A DEPLOYMENT LEVEL CRASH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MAY NOT INFLATE PROPERLY WHICH COULD RESULT IN REDUCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION. IN ADDITION, THE IGNITER PLUG COULD SEPARATE FROM THE INFLATOR, WHICH COULD RESULT IN THE RELEASE OF HOT GASES AND COULD IGNITE FLAMMABLE MATERIAL OR POTENTIALLY CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY. CORRECTION: VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED AND A NEW PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE WILL BE INSTALLED IF NECESSARY.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
STEERING
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,370 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
SEATS
95 FORD EXPLORER PARKED IN CARPORT WITH ENGINE SHUT OFF FOR 5 MIN WHILE CARRIED GROCERIES UP STAIRS - I HAD LEFT DOG IN CRATE TIL FINISHED UNLOADING BUT WHEN I CAME DOWN NOTICED ELECTRICAL SMELL, GOT OUT LOOKED AROUND CAR BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANY BURNING, GOT DOG OUT AND RETURNED IN THREE MINUTES TO FIND KEY NO LONGER UNLOCKED DOOR AND COULD NOT SEE THROUGH WINDOWS - WHEN DOOR WAS OPENED SMOKE BELLOWED OUT, INTERIOR WAS COVERED WITH BLACK SOOT, A HOLE BIGGER THAN A BASKETBALL WAS BURNT OUT OF SEAT AND BACK OF DRIVER'S SEAT WAS PARCHED - HAD I NOT HAD THE WINDOWS COMPLETELY UP IT MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE TO CONTINUED TO BURN.
NHTSA complaint #10705229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,370 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
95 FORD EXPLORER PARKED IN CARPORT WITH ENGINE SHUT OFF FOR 5 MIN WHILE CARRIED GROCERIES UP STAIRS - I HAD LEFT DOG IN CRATE TIL FINISHED UNLOADING BUT WHEN I CAME DOWN NOTICED ELECTRICAL SMELL, GOT OUT LOOKED AROUND CAR BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANY BURNING, GOT DOG OUT AND RETURNED IN THREE MINUTES TO FIND KEY NO LONGER UNLOCKED DOOR AND COULD NOT SEE THROUGH WINDOWS - WHEN DOOR WAS OPENED SMOKE BELLOWED OUT, INTERIOR WAS COVERED WITH BLACK SOOT, A HOLE BIGGER THAN A BASKETBALL WAS BURNT OUT OF SEAT AND BACK OF DRIVER'S SEAT WAS PARCHED - HAD I NOT HAD THE WINDOWS COMPLETELY UP IT MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE TO CONTINUED TO BURN.
NHTSA complaint #10705229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 23,500 milesGilbert, AZFire
SEATS
SOME ELECTRICAL COMPONENT UNDER THE FRONT DRIVERS SEAT CAUGHT FIRE, CONSUMING THE SEAT PORTION OF THE ASSEMBLY.
NHTSA complaint #10676209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 175,000 milesChula Vista, CA
STEERING
THE STEERING COLUMN AND ALL THE PARTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE STEERING OF THE VEHICLE WERE AFFECTED WHEN THE BOLTS THAT HOLD THE CLAMPS THAT SECURE THE BUSHINGS TO THE STEERING COLUMN BEGAN TO LOOSEN. I EXAMINED THE AREA CAREFULLY AND NOTICED THAT BECAUSE THE BOLTS LOOSENED, THE CLAMPS WERE GIVEN TOO MUCH PLAY. WITHIN A SHORT WHILE, A MONTH OR TWO, THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN AND THE SHIFTER WERE COMPLETELY SECURED BY ONE BROKEN CLAMP THAT HELD ITS PLACE BECAUSE OF THE BUSHINGS AND A LOOSE BOLT. THE OTHER CLAMP WAS ALSO BROKEN BUT WAS LAYING ON THE FLOOR BOARD. IT WASN'T AN EXPENSIVE FIX. I CUSTOMIZED A METAL CLAMP FOR EACH OF THE TWO PLACES THE WENT. THEY ARE THE SAME CLAMPS THE ELECTRICIANS USE TO SECURE CABLES AND WIRES TO THE WALLS AND CEILINGS. I USED THE ONES MADE FROM BRONZE. THEY ARE MORE PLIABLE TO SHAPE FOR AN ALMOST PERFECT FIT. WITH A LITTLE GREASE ABOVE AND BELOW THE BUSHINGS AND ALSO SOME WHERE THE NOW BRONZE CLAMPS HOLD THE BUSHINGS, I BELIEVE THAT THE STEERING COLUMN IS AS SAFE AS CAN BE. ALSO, THE PLASTIC THAT HOLDS THE CABLE THAT IS USED TO ADJUST THE SHIFT INDICATOR NEEDS TO BE MADE OF A DIFFERENT MATERIAL. I'LL GET TO THAT SOON.
NHTSA complaint #11209182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175,000 milesChula Vista, CA
SUSPENSION
THE STEERING COLUMN AND ALL THE PARTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE STEERING OF THE VEHICLE WERE AFFECTED WHEN THE BOLTS THAT HOLD THE CLAMPS THAT SECURE THE BUSHINGS TO THE STEERING COLUMN BEGAN TO LOOSEN. I EXAMINED THE AREA CAREFULLY AND NOTICED THAT BECAUSE THE BOLTS LOOSENED, THE CLAMPS WERE GIVEN TOO MUCH PLAY. WITHIN A SHORT WHILE, A MONTH OR TWO, THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN AND THE SHIFTER WERE COMPLETELY SECURED BY ONE BROKEN CLAMP THAT HELD ITS PLACE BECAUSE OF THE BUSHINGS AND A LOOSE BOLT. THE OTHER CLAMP WAS ALSO BROKEN BUT WAS LAYING ON THE FLOOR BOARD. IT WASN'T AN EXPENSIVE FIX. I CUSTOMIZED A METAL CLAMP FOR EACH OF THE TWO PLACES THE WENT. THEY ARE THE SAME CLAMPS THE ELECTRICIANS USE TO SECURE CABLES AND WIRES TO THE WALLS AND CEILINGS. I USED THE ONES MADE FROM BRONZE. THEY ARE MORE PLIABLE TO SHAPE FOR AN ALMOST PERFECT FIT. WITH A LITTLE GREASE ABOVE AND BELOW THE BUSHINGS AND ALSO SOME WHERE THE NOW BRONZE CLAMPS HOLD THE BUSHINGS, I BELIEVE THAT THE STEERING COLUMN IS AS SAFE AS CAN BE. ALSO, THE PLASTIC THAT HOLDS THE CABLE THAT IS USED TO ADJUST THE SHIFT INDICATOR NEEDS TO BE MADE OF A DIFFERENT MATERIAL. I'LL GET TO THAT SOON.
NHTSA complaint #11209182 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
STEERING
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,180 milesOakley, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I GOT IN MY CAR A BATTERY LESS THAN 2 WEEKS OLD WAS ALMOST DEAD NOTHING WAS PLUGGED IN OR ON I DROVE GOT ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 20 MIN ON FREEWAY CAR STOPS WON'T MOVE MAKES REV NOISE EVENTUALLY STARTS LONG ENOUGH TO STOP AGAIN AT BOTTOM OF FREEWAY EXIT STARTS AGAIN GET IN INTO GAS STATION I SIT IN GAS STATION FOR ABOUT 12 HOURS ADD 5 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID EVENTUALLY CAR WILL LET ME DRIVE ABOUT TWO BLOCKS BUT COME TO FIND OUT I WAS DRIVING WELL ON FIRE RACE TO GET MY DOG AND I OUT CAR CATCHES COMPLETELY ON FIRE FIRE MAN SAYS IT ELECTRIC UNDER HOOD NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS OTHER THAN THE BATTERY AND THE OD OFF LIGHT COMING ON AND OFF I HAD THE CAR ABOUT A MONTH POLICE REPORT NUMBER1702207 OAKLAND CA POLICE DEPARTMENT
NHTSA complaint #11092061 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Northport, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
INTERMITTENT STARTING PROBLEMS AND STALLS WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA complaint #10888226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Northport, NY
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
INTERMITTENT STARTING PROBLEMS AND STALLS WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA complaint #10888226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,370 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
SEATS
95 FORD EXPLORER PARKED IN CARPORT WITH ENGINE SHUT OFF FOR 5 MIN WHILE CARRIED GROCERIES UP STAIRS - I HAD LEFT DOG IN CRATE TIL FINISHED UNLOADING BUT WHEN I CAME DOWN NOTICED ELECTRICAL SMELL, GOT OUT LOOKED AROUND CAR BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANY BURNING, GOT DOG OUT AND RETURNED IN THREE MINUTES TO FIND KEY NO LONGER UNLOCKED DOOR AND COULD NOT SEE THROUGH WINDOWS - WHEN DOOR WAS OPENED SMOKE BELLOWED OUT, INTERIOR WAS COVERED WITH BLACK SOOT, A HOLE BIGGER THAN A BASKETBALL WAS BURNT OUT OF SEAT AND BACK OF DRIVER'S SEAT WAS PARCHED - HAD I NOT HAD THE WINDOWS COMPLETELY UP IT MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE TO CONTINUED TO BURN.
NHTSA complaint #10705229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,370 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
95 FORD EXPLORER PARKED IN CARPORT WITH ENGINE SHUT OFF FOR 5 MIN WHILE CARRIED GROCERIES UP STAIRS - I HAD LEFT DOG IN CRATE TIL FINISHED UNLOADING BUT WHEN I CAME DOWN NOTICED ELECTRICAL SMELL, GOT OUT LOOKED AROUND CAR BUT DID NOT NOTICE ANY BURNING, GOT DOG OUT AND RETURNED IN THREE MINUTES TO FIND KEY NO LONGER UNLOCKED DOOR AND COULD NOT SEE THROUGH WINDOWS - WHEN DOOR WAS OPENED SMOKE BELLOWED OUT, INTERIOR WAS COVERED WITH BLACK SOOT, A HOLE BIGGER THAN A BASKETBALL WAS BURNT OUT OF SEAT AND BACK OF DRIVER'S SEAT WAS PARCHED - HAD I NOT HAD THE WINDOWS COMPLETELY UP IT MOST LIKELY WOULD HAVE TO CONTINUED TO BURN.
NHTSA complaint #10705229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesNorth Point, NY
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10676819 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 23,500 milesGilbert, AZFire
SEATS
SOME ELECTRICAL COMPONENT UNDER THE FRONT DRIVERS SEAT CAUGHT FIRE, CONSUMING THE SEAT PORTION OF THE ASSEMBLY.
NHTSA complaint #10676209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesSAN Gabriel, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE COULD BE RESTARTED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000.
NHTSA complaint #10668163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 171,000 milesStatesboro, GA
POWER TRAIN
MY VEHICLE WILL NOT GO IN REVERSE.
NHTSA complaint #10650767 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesBEN Salem, PA
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SWAY BAR WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE LINK ROD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE OVER A ONE YEAR PERIOD. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
NHTSA complaint #10574452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Snohomish, WA
SEAT BELTS
DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH IS DEFECTIVE, (SPRING?) IT IS DIFFICULT TO LATCH AND REPEATEDLY UNLATCHES DURING DRIVE TIMES. I WAS TICKETED FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #10535670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Center, CO
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THE VEHICLE DOESN'T SHIFT SINCE ITS MISSING THE TRANSMISSION WIRING HARNESS O/D SENSOR CANT LOCATE A REPLACEMENT PART THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON ALL THE TIME IT USES A LOT OF ANTIFREEZE SPEED CONTROL DON'T WORK FUEL PUMP KEEPS GOING OUT.
NHTSA complaint #10511821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Center, CO
ENGINE
THE VEHICLE DOESN'T SHIFT SINCE ITS MISSING THE TRANSMISSION WIRING HARNESS O/D SENSOR CANT LOCATE A REPLACEMENT PART THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON ALL THE TIME IT USES A LOT OF ANTIFREEZE SPEED CONTROL DON'T WORK FUEL PUMP KEEPS GOING OUT.
NHTSA complaint #10511821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ST. Paul, MN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THIS IS A COMPLAINT ABOUT FORD'S RECALL PROCESS. I RECENTLY RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE REGARDING A FIRE HAZARD. I HAVE NOT OWNED MY 1995 EXPLORER FOR AT LEAST FIVE YEARS. WHEN I CALLED THE NUMBER LISTED IN THE RECALL NOTICE I GOT A DEPARTMENT AT FORD - THE MAN SAID THEY CONTRACT OUT THEIR RECALLS TO A THIRD PARTY AND THAT HE COULD NOT HELP ME, NOR COULD HE GIVE ME THEIR NUMBER. HE SAID THE COMPANY GETS OWNER INFORMATION BY USING THE DMV. IF THEY HAD DONE THAT THEY WOULD KNOW I HAVE NOT OWNED THIS VEHICLE IN MANY YEARS. THIS RECALL NOTICE WAS ABOUT A FIRE HAZARD AND OBVIOUSLY WILL NOT GET TO THE PERSON WHO MAY NOW OWN THE VEHICLE, SO IT ISN'T A VERY EFFECTIVE RECALL. THE THIRD PARTY COMPANY WHO IS DOING THIS FOR FORD IS NOT DOING A VERY GOOD JOB ON SOMETHING AS CRITICAL AS A SAFETY RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #10488135 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
POWER TRAIN
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR WHEN IT BEGAN TO DOWN SHIFT AROUND 35MPH. EVENTUALLY, AFTER ADDING MORE GAS, IT KICKED INTO GEAR. MY VEHICLE IS AN AUTOMATIC. ONCE IT DOWN SHIFTS, THE OD LIGHT BEGINS FLASHING ON AND OFF. IT HAS NOW BEEN DOING THIS CONSISTENTLY. THE DRIVE IS NOT A SMOOTH DRIVE AND WHEN I AM GOING APPROXIMATELY 50-60MPH OR MORE, THE CAR BEGINS TO SHAKE.
NHTSA complaint #10475384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR WHEN IT BEGAN TO DOWN SHIFT AROUND 35MPH. EVENTUALLY, AFTER ADDING MORE GAS, IT KICKED INTO GEAR. MY VEHICLE IS AN AUTOMATIC. ONCE IT DOWN SHIFTS, THE OD LIGHT BEGINS FLASHING ON AND OFF. IT HAS NOW BEEN DOING THIS CONSISTENTLY. THE DRIVE IS NOT A SMOOTH DRIVE AND WHEN I AM GOING APPROXIMATELY 50-60MPH OR MORE, THE CAR BEGINS TO SHAKE.
NHTSA complaint #10475384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Indianapolis, IN
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
SINCE I'VE PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE, THE CRUISE CONTROL HAS NEVER WORKED.
NHTSA complaint #10475390 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
WHEELS
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR WHEN IT BEGAN TO DOWN SHIFT AROUND 35MPH. EVENTUALLY, AFTER ADDING MORE GAS, IT KICKED INTO GEAR. MY VEHICLE IS AN AUTOMATIC. ONCE IT DOWN SHIFTS, THE OD LIGHT BEGINS FLASHING ON AND OFF. IT HAS NOW BEEN DOING THIS CONSISTENTLY. THE DRIVE IS NOT A SMOOTH DRIVE AND WHEN I AM GOING APPROXIMATELY 50-60MPH OR MORE, THE CAR BEGINS TO SHAKE.
NHTSA complaint #10475384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR WHEN IT BEGAN TO DOWN SHIFT AROUND 35MPH. EVENTUALLY, AFTER ADDING MORE GAS, IT KICKED INTO GEAR. MY VEHICLE IS AN AUTOMATIC. ONCE IT DOWN SHIFTS, THE OD LIGHT BEGINS FLASHING ON AND OFF. IT HAS NOW BEEN DOING THIS CONSISTENTLY. THE DRIVE IS NOT A SMOOTH DRIVE AND WHEN I AM GOING APPROXIMATELY 50-60MPH OR MORE, THE CAR BEGINS TO SHAKE.
NHTSA complaint #10475384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 56,000 milesNiles, IL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,000.
NHTSA complaint #10470395 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 143,000 milesWalnut Creek, CAFire
SEATS
VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET AND ENGINE HAD BEEN OFF FOR 30 MINUTES. DRIVER WAS SITTING IN VEHICLE MAKING PHONE CALLS WHEN HE SMELLED SMOKE AND SAW FLAMING WIRE UNDER DRIVER'S SEAT. DRIVER ESCAPED UNHARMED AND WAS ABLE TO REMOVE SOME CONTENTS BUT VEHICLE WAS FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAME WITHIN A FEW MINUTES, DESTROYING VEHICLE ENTIRELY, MELTING PAVEMENT, BURNING NEARBY GRASS AND TREES, AND MELTING BUMPER AND PAINT ON A NEARBY PARKED VEHICLE. FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED TO EXTINGUISH VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10468967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.