2010 Ford Edge Problems Include Exploding Airbags, Faulty Brakes, and Water Pump Failures

Tyler Hilgeman
May 13, 2022

The 2010 Ford Edge has seven recalls, and five of them deal with the inflater in the Takata airbag exploding and possibly sending deadly shards of metal at the passengers. There has also been a common theme of brake problems and expensive repairs needed if the water pump fails.

2010 Ford Edge - Photo by Ford

Key Points

  • The 2010 Ford Edge has seven recalls, and five of them deal with the Takata airbag potentially exploding.
  • Many owners have reported problems with the brake booster failing, making applying breaks more difficult. Owners often have to replace the power transfer unit to solve this issue.
  • Unwanted acceleration and water pump failures have led to expensive repairs.
  • Due to corrosion, there have been problems with the ABS system and leaks in the power steering pipe.
  • Considering the expensive repairs that many owners have gone through, the 2010 Ford Edge is not worth the investment.

Recalls Consist of Exploding Airbags, Fuel Tank Leakage, and the Wheel Not Mounting Securely on the Wheel Hub

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2010 Ford Edge has had five recalls regarding either the passenger side airbag or the driver side airbag exploding. Due to high humidity and temperature cycling, the inflater may explode—sending potentially deadly metal shards at the passengers.

Exploding airbags are an ongoing problem, with the latest recall launched in early 2021. However, as usual, Ford is obligated to fix it free of charge.

Another potentially severe recall has to do with the fuel tank leaking due to corrosion from saltwater or road salt. This could result in a fire and therefore should be dealt with immediately.

There was also a recall in 2017 regarding spindles with defective mounting studs. As a result, the wheel may not mount securely to the wheel hub. This could be dangerous as the wheel may wobble, vibrate, or potentially even come off—leading to a crash.

Owners’ Complaints Include Lack of Parts for Takata Airbag Replacement, Faulty Brakes, and Issues with the Power Transfer Unit

The 2010 Ford Edge has a total of 609 complaints recorded by the NHTSA. Nearly 285 complaints deal with the Takata airbag—mainly with difficulty having it replaced. Owners have reported a lack of parts as the problem.

There have also been 128 complaints that concentrate on the brake booster failing. As a result, braking becomes difficult or impossible.

Another common complaint has to do with the power transfer unit failing. At Car Problem Zoo, owners have noted signs like abnormal smells and rumbling, like coins in a can, when the power transfer unit fails.

2010 Ford Edge - Photo by Ford

Common Issues Include Problems with the Water Pump, Electrical System, and Speed Control

There have been numerous reported issues regarding the water pump failing without warning. Because the water pump is located inside the engine, there have been cases in which the coolant gets circulated throughout the engine—thereby destroying the engine.

Customers have reported high repair costs to get the water pump replaced, with some citing $4,500 to $7,500 in repairs.

Issues with the electrical system mainly consist of warning lights turning on and off without cause.

There has also been an electrical problem with the door locks malfunctioning. Customers have complained about not being able to lock the car doors as it creates an unsafe environment with kids in the car.

Another problem has to do with the vehicle accelerating by itself. Some customers have noted that their car will continue to accelerate even when the brake is fully pressed down. As a result, the only temporary solution has been to turn off the car.

Several Owners Have Reported Issues with the Brakes and Power Steering Leaks

Owners have posted numerous complaints at Consumer Reports and Repair Pal regarding weak and faulty brakes. Many have cited problems with the brake pedal being unusually firm or weak.

Others have mentioned that their ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) light would turn on. After further examination, some found that the front axle needed to be replaced.

Some owners found that their power steering fluid was leaking. In many cases, the leakage was caused by corrosion in the pipe due to sea salt or road salt.

2010 Ford Edge - Photo by Ford

2010 Ford Edge Monetary Risks Could Increase the Total Price by Twofold

Ford may have great trucks, but that is not necessarily the case with their SUVs. The 2010 Ford Edge has many repetitive complaints like faulty brakes and water pump failure that are not addressed under a recall.

Considering that the average used 2010 Ford Edge, according to Kelley Blue Book, costs about $8,000, the potential repairs alone could increase that price twofold.

For example, the common complaint of the water pump failing could result in $4,500 to $7,500 in repairs as, sometimes, the whole engine needs replacing.

While the 2010 Ford Edge may be a classy-looking car, the monetary risks outweigh the potential benefits.

Photos: Ford

Frequently Asked Questions

By Stephanie Stephan | May 13, 2022

What is the Most Common Problem With the Ford Edge?

The Ford Edge suffers from electrical problems across years. Owners complain the "door ajar" light stays on, while engine stalling and shut down are common. Coolant can leak into cylinder heads and damage the engine in 2017 models.

How Many Miles Can a 2010 Ford Edge Last?

Most reviewers agree the Ford Edge can last for up to 200,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, owners report water pump and engine failure in the 2010 Edge at 123,600 miles on average.
  • Articles
  • chevronRightAlternative
  • 2010 Ford Edge Problems Include Exploding Airbags, Faulty Brakes, and Water Pump Failures