Ford recalling 238,000 Explorer SUV’s
By Joe Hathaway on Monday, October 16th, 2023 in Featured Stories More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
DETROIT – (Information from NHTSA) Ford is recalling over 238,000 Explorer SUVs from the 2020 through 2022 model years because a faulty part could cause the driveshaft to disconnect. If this happens while the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied, it could roll away. If it happens while driving, the vehicle could suddenly lose power. Some of these vehicles were already recalled last year for the same defect and will need another repair.
The recall comes after 396 reports of rear axle bolt failures and an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into the problem. The original parts were not robust enough to withstand repeated heavy acceleration. If the axle bolt fractures, Ford says that drivers may notice a loud grinding or clunking noise. Its dealerships will replace a subframe bushing and rear axle bolt free of charge.
Ford attempted to address the problem last year on non-police versions of the Explorer with a software update that automatically engaged the parking brake when the vehicle was shifted into Park.
According to documents provided to NHTSA, Ford is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this recall. The automaker says there have been fewer than 19 reports of affected vehicles rolling away or losing power while in motion.
Ford Explorer Recall Details
Vehicles recalled: Certain Ford Explorer, Explorer Hybrid, ST, and Police SUVs manufactured between Oct. 22, 2018, and July 6, 2022.
The problem: A faulty design may cause the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt to fracture and disconnect the vehicle’s driveshaft.
The fix: Ford dealerships will replace the rear axle bolt and subframe bushing, free of charge. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage and replace it if necessary.
How to contact the manufacturer: Owners may call Ford at 866-436-7332.
NHTSA campaign number: 23V675. Ford’s own number for this recall is 23S55.
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.
