Ford Explorer Recall Impacts 350K Vehicles From Model Years 2013-2017, Which May Suffer Steering Control Problems

Ford Motors is expanding a recall of Explorer SUV’s equipped with defective suspensions that may suddenly crack, causing a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash and injury hazard.

The Ford Explorer recall expansion was announced by the manufacturer on November 4, after the manufacturer identified more than 350,000 additional models made with defective toe links that are prone to fracturing, which would result in diminished steering capabilities.

The recall is an expansion of the initial June 2019 recall, in which approximately 1.2 million model year 2011 through 2017 Explorer vehicles were found to be subject to fracturing toe links when the vehicles are exposed to frequent full rear suspension articulation. The recall followed an investigation into multiple customer reports of loss of steering and control problems.

After Ford initiated the recall, they continued monitoring warranty claims and determined vehicles outside the scope of the original recall had reports for similar issues, prompting a deeper investigation.

According to the expansion notice, approximately 350,000 model year 2013 through 2017 Ford explorers have been added to recall in the United States, while another 25,200 impacted were sold in Canada. The vehicles were manufactured at the Chicago Assembly Plant from September 2012 through January 25, 2017.

The manufacturer warned in the press release that vehicles sold or registered in certain areas of North America states and provinces where corrosion is common due to climate conditions and roadway treatments could be subject to higher rates of suspension toe link fracturing.

To date, Ford is aware of 13 reported accidents and six reports of injuries related to the problem.

Ford announced it will notify registered vehicle owners with instructions on how to schedule an appointment at their local dealer, who will be instructed to complete a torque inspection of the cross-axis ball joint and replace it as necessary.

Customers with additional questions or concerns regarding the recall are encouraged to contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference the recall number 19S17 for the June 2019 recall, and recall number 20S62 for recent expansion recall.