Owners have filed 4,097 complaints
about the 2002 Ford Explorer with NHTSA between 2001 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 3 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 — 100
Against the median year of the Ford Explorer. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 54
10.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 22
13% 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.
Automatic Transmission
88751.2%
Rear
19211.1%
Hinge AND Attachments
1669.6%
Differential Unit
1609.2%
Hatchback/Liftgate
1126.5%
Body
1106.3%
Wheel Bearing
563.2%
Engine
502.9%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
331.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
391.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1555.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
48115.5%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
71122.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
72823.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
67421.7%
150,000+ miles
2909.3%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2002 Ford Explorer 4-DR.
—
—
—
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.
Apr 2001peak 87Jul 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2002 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.
EA09013Opened 18 Aug 2009Closed 12 Feb 2013POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Vehicle Rollaway Allegations
This investigation is being closed based on several considerations.By the most inclusive counting of all alleged rollaway incidents (i.e., counting all alleged rollaway incidents and assuming a singular failure mechanism), the incident rate is low, however during EA09-013, ODI identified a number of different failure mechanisms in 180 incidents related to the alleged defect.The highest rate for any particular failure mechanism, the failure of the Automatic Transmission Parking System, was 4.4/100K.The next-highest failure rate was for the BSI System, at 3.4/100K.For all identified failure mech...
PE09020Opened 21 Apr 2009Closed 19 Aug 2009STEERING:COLUMN
VEHICLE ROLLAWAY ALLEGATIONS
IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) LETTER SENT BY THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI), FORD STATED CONSUMER REPORTS OF HIGHER THAN EXPECTED EFFORTS WHEN SHIFTING INTO AND OUT OF PARK COULD BE A RESULT OF A GROOVE BEING WORN INTO THE SWING ARM RAMP OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE SWING ARM IS A COMPONENT BOLTED TO THE STEERING COLUMN THAT ASSISTS IN SHIFTING THROUGH THE TRANSMISSION GEARS.AN ENGINEERING EVALUATION CONDUCTED BY FORD OF RETURNED STEERING COLUMNS FOUND THE GROOVE COULD BE CREATED OVER TIME IF CONSUMER SHIFT MORE QUICKLY FROM THE DRIVE OR REVERSE TO PARK THAN THE BRAKE SH...
DP05005Opened 22 Sep 2005Closed 4 Jan 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ENGINE SPARK PLUG EJECTION IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1997 THROUGH 2004 FORD VEHICLES WITH TRITON V-8 AND V-10 ENGINES.ODI RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 474 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHERE THE COMPLAINANT, OR THE DEALER REPAIRING THE VEHICLE, REPORTED THAT A SPARK PLUG DETACHED FROM THE CYLINDER AND/OR EJECTED FROM THE ENGINE.AS OF DECEMBER 8, 2005, ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY ALLEGATIONS WHERE THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTED IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, A CRASH, AN INJURY, OR A FATALITY IN A...
PE05037Opened 7 Jul 2005Closed 2 Nov 2005VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
STUCK ENGINE THROTTLE
ON JULY 7, 2005, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED STUCK THROTTLE COMPLAINTS IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND MERCURY MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE STANDARD AVAILABLE 4.0L SOHC V6 ENGINE.AT THAT TIME, ODI WAS AWARE OF 15 COMPLAINTS THAT ALLEGED STUCK ENGINE THROTTLE CAUSING UNWANTED VEHICLE ACCELERATION AND 1 ALLEGED CRASH AS A RESULT.SIX COMPLAINANTS REPORTED THAT THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE REPLACEMENT REMEDIED THE ALLEGED STUCK THROTTLE CONDITION.ADDITIONALLY, ODI WAS AWARE OF A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN IS...
PE04045Opened 2 Jun 2004Closed 28 Sep 2004STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
REAR LIFTGATE GLASS ASSEMBLY
COMPLAINTS REPORT FAILURE OF THE REAR LIFTGATE GLASS SUPPORT WHILE THE OPERATOR IS OPENING OR CLOSING THE GLASS.THE FALLING GLASS CAN STRIKE THE OPERATOR OR BYSTANDER.THE INJURIES REPORTED ARE BRUISES TO THE HEAD, NECK OR BACK, CUTS TO THE FACE, ARM OR HAND.ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2004, FORD NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WILL RECALL APPROXIMATELY 955,732 MY 2002 AND 2003 FORD EXPLORER AND MERCURY MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES TO REPLACE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND/OR HINGES.SEE NHTSA RECALL 04V442 FOR DETAILS. THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
EA02010Opened 2 Jul 2002Closed 25 Feb 2003AIR BAGS
MIS-ASSEMBLED AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING
IN JULY 2001, FORD ISSUED A SPECIAL SERVICE MESSAGE ANNOUNCING THAT SOME AIR BAGCLOCKSPRING DEVICES MAY PRODUCE NOISE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS TURNED FULL LEFT OR RIGHT.FORD WAS AWARE THAT SOME CLOCKSPRINGS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED.THE IMPROPER INSTALLATION MAY ALSO CAUSE AN OPEN CIRCUIT AND THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE.STARTING WITH VEHICLES PRODUCED IN SEPTEMBER 2001, FORD ADDING LENGTH TO THE CLOCKSPRING WIRE TO REDUCE THE LIKELIHOOD OF DAMAGE FROM IMPROPER INSTALLATION.ODI'S INVESTIGATION REVEALED 32 COMLAINTS (VEHICLE BUILT PRIOR TO SEPT. 2001) OF WARNING LIGHT BUT...
SQ01015Opened 12 Dec 2001Closed 2 Jul 2002AIR BAGS
INOPERATIVE AIR BAG SYSTEM
Recalls on the 2002 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.
07E104000
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
06E049000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE 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.
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.
04V442000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.
Risk: IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
03V094000
STRUCTURE
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.
Risk: THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20194205,327 units in Canada
Other
Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Safety Risk: Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.
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 2007258165,447 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn, potentially resulting in an underhood fire. The failure mode appears to be different than that of Recall 2005028 (05S28). This time, the concern is with long term durability performance issues causing the switch to fail. Correction: Initially as an interim repair, owners will be instructed to return their vehicles to their dealers to have the speed control deactivation switch disconnected. As soon as replacement parts are available, owners will be instructed to return to the dealers for installation of a fused wiring harness designed to eliminate the potential risk of fire.
Recall 2006079366 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain Explorer, Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac vehicles, the upper bolt on the driver's high back seat that attaches the seat recliner mechanism to the seat back frame could fracture. If this happens, the seat back may recline until it makes contact with an object behind the seat, such as the 2nd row seat cushion. The occupant could potentially lose contact with the steering wheel or foot pedals during such an event. Correction: Dealer will replace the driver's seat upper bolt.
Recall 200432824,918 units in Canada
Other
On certain 2002 model year vehicles, the ball stud bracket located on the rear liftgate window could rotate out of position on the glass. If this occurs, the window lift strut may detach and become trapped between the glass and the liftgate, possibly causing the window to drop unexpectedly or break. In all of the affected vehicles model year 2002 and 2003, the hinge which attaches the liftgate window to the liftgate body may separate from the liftgate body. If this occurs, the window could drop unexpectedly or break. If the liftgate window drops or breaks, either the person operating the window or a nearby person could be injured. Correction: Dealers will replace the liftgate glass hinge and ball stud bracket (if applicable).
Recall 200319056,363 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain Explorer, Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac vehicles, the upper bolt on the driver's high back seat that attaches the seat recliner mechanism to the seat back frame could fracture. If this happens, the seat back may recline until it makes contact with an object behind the seat, such as the 2nd row seat cushion. The occupant could potentially lose contact with the steering wheel or foot pedals during such an event. Correction: Dealer will replace the driver's seat upper bolt.
Recall 20011252,176 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the right side tires may have horizontal cuts on the edge of the tread that could have occurred during vehicle assembly. Over time the tire could fail increasing the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect the tires and if any slices are found, those tires will be replaced.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
New Port Richey, FL1 injured
AIR BAGS
I was driving down the road and my airbag instantly deployed in my face without cause or notice. I became completely disoriented as it hit my hand and face with severe force and was extremely loud and shocking. I thank God that I had just let off the gas and didn't hurt anyone else. If I had panicked or was going through an intersection, experiencing a turn, coming to a stop, or someone in front of me stopped I could have struck another vehicle or object and caused death or injuries. I have not brought the vehicle anywhere to be checked out yet. My insurance refuses to cover it. There were no warning signs of this airbag deployment.
NHTSA complaint #11751609 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Central Point, OR1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
NHTSA complaint #11672158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Central Point, OR1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
NHTSA complaint #11672158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 184,000 milesRoseville, CA1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPENING THE REAL LIFT GATE, THE REAR LIFT GATE GLASS WINDOW SUDDENLY SHATTERED. DURING THE INCIDENT, THE PERSON SUSTAINED A FACIAL LACERATION WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER (FUTURE FORD LOCATED AT 650 AUTOMALL DR, ROSEVILLE, CA 95661) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000.
NHTSA complaint #11353727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highland Park, ILFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE CONSUMER STATED THE HOME FIRE HAZARD CREATED BY FAULTY DESIGN OF NON UL APPROVED PERSONAL SNOW PLOW USE FOR SUV MANUFACTURED BY WESTERN PRODUCTS. SNOW PLOW ELECTRIC MOTOR WAS UNFUSED AND OVERHEATED NOT RESPONDING TO THE COMMAN CONTROLLER SHORTING OUT AND CAUSING A SERIOUS EXPENSIVE FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11253850 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highland Park, ILFire
EQUIPMENT
THE CONSUMER STATED THE HOME FIRE HAZARD CREATED BY FAULTY DESIGN OF NON UL APPROVED PERSONAL SNOW PLOW USE FOR SUV MANUFACTURED BY WESTERN PRODUCTS. SNOW PLOW ELECTRIC MOTOR WAS UNFUSED AND OVERHEATED NOT RESPONDING TO THE COMMAN CONTROLLER SHORTING OUT AND CAUSING A SERIOUS EXPENSIVE FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11253850 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
New Port Richey, FL1 injured
AIR BAGS
I was driving down the road and my airbag instantly deployed in my face without cause or notice. I became completely disoriented as it hit my hand and face with severe force and was extremely loud and shocking. I thank God that I had just let off the gas and didn't hurt anyone else. If I had panicked or was going through an intersection, experiencing a turn, coming to a stop, or someone in front of me stopped I could have struck another vehicle or object and caused death or injuries. I have not brought the vehicle anywhere to be checked out yet. My insurance refuses to cover it. There were no warning signs of this airbag deployment.
NHTSA complaint #11751609 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Central Point, OR1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
NHTSA complaint #11672158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Central Point, OR1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
September 2, 2023 at about 6 pm I pulled over to grab a couple water bottles from the rear of my 2002 Ford Explorer Sport cause my engine was overheating. I got out walked to the rear of my vehicle pushed my unlatch button on the tailgate and I lifted the glass part of the rear hatch. Both air hinges were not working correctly to keep it up so I gently rested the glass on my hair that was put up in a bun and just a little bit of the glass was resting on the very top of my head where my hair was slicked back for my bun so my hands were free to grab the bottles of water. (My hair was the softest of resting place's). As I reached in the back to grab the water bottles I heard the loudest bang and hundreds of little pieces of glass fell everywhere around me. I was in so much distrot that I actually thought someone had shot at me with a fire arm but missed me and hit the rear glass instead. The top of my head was stinging and it felt like I had just been smacked with a tree branch and the glass had went all over me causing a few minor cuts and scrapes as I fell to my knees in shock my heart racing faster than I had even imagined a heart could beat while histaraclly crying from the trauma that just occurred I fell to the ground and for a full 15 minutes i sat there surrounded by glass and tears in so much shock, dazed and confused before I stood up and looked around at everything that then I only realized I WASN'T shot at because there was no bullet or bullet hole nor did a vehicle drive by nor was there any people closer than a mile to me when I realized that the glass had shattered for some UNKNOWN reason ON ITS OWN that it scared me so bad it traumatized me. After that day I was pulled over multiple times by numerous police agency's (sheriff, Medford PD, Central Point PD and State Police) because I didn't have the money to fix it let alone have the knowledge that it had a recall so I could get it replaced. I have pictures but it will not allow me to upload them.
NHTSA complaint #11672158 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,583 milesLewisburg, TN
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her fiancé was driving 45 MPH, the driver’s side and passenger’s side air bags inadvertently deployed without an impact or a crash, causing the contact’s fiancé to swerve and drive down into a ditch. No warning lights were illuminated. The front bumper, windshield, and passenger’s side taillight were cracked. No injuries were sustained. A Police report was not filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,583.
NHTSA complaint #11594472 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 88,000 milesDetroit, MI
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle shut off. The contact was able to coast off the freeway. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic, but the mechanic declined to service the vehicle. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified about the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 88,000.
NHTSA complaint #11557714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
STEERING
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the steering wheel intermittently seized while driving at various speeds without warning. After finding a replacement part at a salvage yard, the contact had the steering wheel replaced by an independent mechanic; however, the failure persisted. The contact also stated that an abnormal ticking noise was coming from the engine with the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11483635 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Houston, TX
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the steering wheel intermittently seized while driving at various speeds without warning. After finding a replacement part at a salvage yard, the contact had the steering wheel replaced by an independent mechanic; however, the failure persisted. The contact also stated that an abnormal ticking noise was coming from the engine with the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11483635 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 137,000 milesChicago, IL
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the hood latch independently released, causing the hood to strike the windshield. The contact was able to get to the side of the roadway and closed the hood. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 137,000.
NHTSA complaint #11472938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Calhoun City, MS
POWER TRAIN
Overdrive light flashes after driving a little bit hard shifting doesn't shift into overdrive 4x4 lights indicate that it's working when the buttons are pushed but doesn't go into 4x4
NHTSA complaint #11469181 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesLakeside, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
The contact owns a 2002 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while entering the highway at approximately 45 MPH and accelerating to overtake the next vehicle, the accelerator pedal went to the floorboard however, the vehicle did not respond. The contact was able to pull over safely off the highway. There were no warning lights on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V422000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.
NHTSA complaint #11458942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeport, CT
AIR BAGS
The light form air bad juts got on when I was driving
NHTSA complaint #11421822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 261,765 milesBronx, NY
AIR BAGS
I WAS ON MOTION WHEN THE AIR BAG LIGHT TURN ON BUT I WENT TO CHECK AND THEY SAY I HAVE TO TAKE TO THE DEALER TO REPAIR
NHTSA complaint #11412884 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,000 milesPhilipsburg, PA
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE TRANSMISSION EXPERIENCED HARD SHIFTING WITH A CLUNKING NOISE PRESENT COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR RATIO WAS FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER JACOB GEORGE FORD LOCATED AT 125 SPRING ST, HOUTZDALE, PA 16651 AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11397933 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alexandria, VA
TIRES
TL* THE CONTACT STATED THE WHEN DRIVING A 2002 FORD EXPLORER AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, EQUIPPED WITH COOPER TIRE, TIRE LINE SOLARIS AS, TIRE SIZE 225-70-R16, DOT INFORMATION WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE WALL BLEW AND THE TIRE SEPARATED FROM THE RIM. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE VIN, MILEAGE, INFORMATION WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED.
NHTSA complaint #11383029 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chicago, IL
POWER TRAIN
THE ISSUES THAT I'M HAVING IS THE EXHILARATION (PICKING UP SPEED) ON A PUBLIC STREET AS WELL AS IN THE EXPRESSWAY IT HESITATES TO DO SO. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED AND I GO TO SWITCH GEARS IT DOES NOT WANT TO SWITCH. THE GAUGE INDICATOR COMES ON AND THE GAS IDLE BE STUCK ON EMPTY WHEN IT HAS A FULL TANK OF GAS. WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION THE RADIO VOLUME GOES UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN. AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT WANT TO START FOR ME ONE DAY THE VERY NEXT DAY IT STARTED RIGHT ON UP (LIKE IT WANT TO START BUT DIDN'T CATCH). ALL OF THIS STARTED HAPPENING AT THE BEGINNING OF OCTOBER 2020
NHTSA complaint #11376670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chicago, IL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THE ISSUES THAT I'M HAVING IS THE EXHILARATION (PICKING UP SPEED) ON A PUBLIC STREET AS WELL AS IN THE EXPRESSWAY IT HESITATES TO DO SO. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED AND I GO TO SWITCH GEARS IT DOES NOT WANT TO SWITCH. THE GAUGE INDICATOR COMES ON AND THE GAS IDLE BE STUCK ON EMPTY WHEN IT HAS A FULL TANK OF GAS. WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION THE RADIO VOLUME GOES UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN. AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT WANT TO START FOR ME ONE DAY THE VERY NEXT DAY IT STARTED RIGHT ON UP (LIKE IT WANT TO START BUT DIDN'T CATCH). ALL OF THIS STARTED HAPPENING AT THE BEGINNING OF OCTOBER 2020
NHTSA complaint #11376670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chicago, IL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE ISSUES THAT I'M HAVING IS THE EXHILARATION (PICKING UP SPEED) ON A PUBLIC STREET AS WELL AS IN THE EXPRESSWAY IT HESITATES TO DO SO. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED AND I GO TO SWITCH GEARS IT DOES NOT WANT TO SWITCH. THE GAUGE INDICATOR COMES ON AND THE GAS IDLE BE STUCK ON EMPTY WHEN IT HAS A FULL TANK OF GAS. WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION THE RADIO VOLUME GOES UP AND DOWN ON ITS OWN. AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT WANT TO START FOR ME ONE DAY THE VERY NEXT DAY IT STARTED RIGHT ON UP (LIKE IT WANT TO START BUT DIDN'T CATCH). ALL OF THIS STARTED HAPPENING AT THE BEGINNING OF OCTOBER 2020
NHTSA complaint #11376670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 184,000 milesRoseville, CA1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPENING THE REAL LIFT GATE, THE REAR LIFT GATE GLASS WINDOW SUDDENLY SHATTERED. DURING THE INCIDENT, THE PERSON SUSTAINED A FACIAL LACERATION WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL TREATMENT. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER (FUTURE FORD LOCATED AT 650 AUTOMALL DR, ROSEVILLE, CA 95661) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000.
NHTSA complaint #11353727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newburgh, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY
SUMMER,SPRING WEATHER, ALL FOUR, CLEAR, GLASS WINDOWS DO NOT SLIDE UP OR DOWN THROUGH ITS' POWER BUTTON, ELECTRONICALLY.
NHTSA complaint #11325882 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newburgh, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
SUMMER,SPRING WEATHER, ALL FOUR, CLEAR, GLASS WINDOWS DO NOT SLIDE UP OR DOWN THROUGH ITS' POWER BUTTON, ELECTRONICALLY.
NHTSA complaint #11325882 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,000 milesFoley, AL
SEATS
MAKES A RATTLING NOISE WHEN A BUMP IS HIT DRIVER SIDE SEAT STOP WORKING
NHTSA complaint #11320858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,000 milesFoley, AL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
MAKES A RATTLING NOISE WHEN A BUMP IS HIT DRIVER SIDE SEAT STOP WORKING
NHTSA complaint #11320858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,000 milesFoley, AL
SUSPENSION
MAKES A RATTLING NOISE WHEN A BUMP IS HIT DRIVER SIDE SEAT STOP WORKING
NHTSA complaint #11320858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,474 milesModesto, CA
STEERING
THE CAR ALWAYS FEELS LIKE IS ABOUT TO JUMP OFF THE ROAD OR THE LANE IM IN WHENEVER I DRIVE OVER ANY ROUGH ROAD OR POT HOLES. %ģ
NHTSA complaint #11316967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,474 milesModesto, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
THE CAR ALWAYS FEELS LIKE IS ABOUT TO JUMP OFF THE ROAD OR THE LANE IM IN WHENEVER I DRIVE OVER ANY ROUGH ROAD OR POT HOLES. %ģ
NHTSA complaint #11316967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
