Who doesn’t love a Ford Explorer? Well, you might not either if you ever had a carbon monoxide issue with one. The poisonous gas? Yep, the same stuff.
Have there been any Ford Explorer monoxide recalls that I need to know about?
As of August 2020, no, but there have been some investigations that could lead to recalls in the future.
These include:
- Fifth-generation Explorer recorded carbon monoxide poisoning and illnesses
- Open investigations for some Ford Explorers used for consumers and law enforcement
- Smell issues reported by 1.4 million owners
Ford addressed the issues by opening up a “complimentary service program” for the fifth generation Ford Explorers from 2011 to 2019. The manufacturer also put efforts into taking care of reports of carbon monoxide leaking without recalls on the Explorers.
Fifth Generation Ford Explorers Recorded Complaints of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Ford Explorers of the fifth generation from 2011 to 2019 had reports and recorded people falling ill due to carbon monoxide poisoning. There were reports of exhaust smells circulating from the auxiliary rear air conditioning while running at high rpms.
While a carbon monoxide leak does not affect vehicle performance, it can cause a serious accident if the driver passes out behind the wheel if not addressed.
Ford released Technical Service Bulletins and offered a “Complimentary Service Program” to change the software to fix the AC’s recirculation mode when the rpms are high.
An Investigation on Behalf of Law Enforcement
The current investigation began in Florida, where NHTSA started an investigation into reports of carbon monoxide entering the Ford Explorers AC systems from 2011 to 2015 consumers and police SUVs. At full throttle, entering the freeway, or going up a hill, the dangerous fumes filled the cabin.
Addressing this required a team effort between the Ford company and some police departments who installed a carbon monoxide monitor. The Ford company provided a complimentary repair to the police departments.
1.4 Million Complaints of Smell Issues
Those who did not fall sick still noticed the smell of exhaust odor. The odor would fill up the cab, and it was bad enough to receive 1.4 million complaints – and for Ford to take notice.
Just like carbon monoxide, overexposure to these fumes can cause someone to pass out, which could lead to crashes or death. The solutions Ford came up with included resetting the AC systems, replacing the liftgate drain valves, and sealing off the back of the SUVs.
What to Do if There is an Open Recall for Ford Explorer Monoxide Issues?
If your Ford Explorer has a recall for a carbon monoxide leak, be sure to pay a visit to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. You will need the VIN, year, make, and model to enter. It will let you know if there is an open recall for your Vehicle History.
If the website shows there is a recall, contact Ford Motor Company at 1-800-392-3673. The manufacturer will give you all the information you need to follow up on the recall.
