2005 FORD Explorer Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
567
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
STRUCTURE
143 complaints
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that there was a crack on the top panel of the rear liftgate. The contact was concerned that the rear liftgate would fracture if she opened the liftgate. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Sep 01, 2022
2005 FORD EXPLORER. FRAME IS ROTTING ALONG THE WELDS. NOT UP AND DOWN. LENGTH WISE RUNNING WITH THE FRAME. OBVIOUSLY A FACTORY WELD ISSUE AND A BIG ISSUE AT THAT AS THE ISSUE COULD HAVE THE FRAME FAIL AND ENTIRE HUB/AXLE/WHEEL ASSEMBLY RIP RIGHT OFF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS ALSO A VERY COMMON ISSUE WITH FORD'S IN GENERAL FROM 02-2005. AS YOU ALREADY KNOW I'M SURE. THIS VEHICLE WAS WELL MAINTAINED AND TAKEN CARE OF AND THE FRAME ISSUE HAS MADE AN OTHERWISE GREAT RUNNING LOW MILEAGE VEHICLE WORTHLESS. NOT TO MENTION HAD THE ISSUE NOT BEEN FOUND VERY DANGEROUS! PLEASE GET THESE DEATH TRAPS OFF THE ROAD!! HAVE PICTURES BUT THE FILES ARE TO LARGE TO SEND. THANKS.
Apr 09, 2018
THE BACK LIFT GATE PANEL CRACKED ON THE BACK OF OUR FORD EXPLORER AND WHEN WE WENT TO SHUT THE LIFT GATE THE WHOLE BACK WINDOW SHATTERED. FORD WON'T REPLACE IT BECAUSE THEY SAY ITS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE AND OUR YEAR OF OUR FORD WAS NOT APART OF THE RECALL OF THESE PANELS BEING CRACKED. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT IF YOU HAVE ONE OF THESE CRACKS THAT THE BACK WINDOW CAN SHATTER WHEN CLOSING THE LIFT GATE.
Aug 31, 2017
WE HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER AND THE BACK LIFT GATE PANEL WAS CRACKED RIGHT BY THE FORD SYMBOL. WHEN WE WENT TO OPEN THE BACK LIFT GATE AND THE PANEL WHERE IT WAS CRACKED BROKE IN HALF AND SHATTERED THE WHOLE BACK WINDOW AND INJURED US. FORD WANTS TO CHARGE ME $140.00 TO JUST LOOK AT IT. COME ON FORD DO WHAT'S RIGHT! BEWARE IF YOU HAVE A CRACKED PANEL ON YOUR FORD! IT CAN BREAK IN HALF AND THE GLASS CAN SHATTER.
Aug 30, 2017
I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER AND UPON OPENING MY REAR TAILGATE, THE SCREWS ON THE TWO HINGES BROKE FROM THE GLASS. TTHE ONLY THING HOLDING IT HALFWAY UP IS THE HYDRAULIC POWER LIFTERS. GLAD I WAS PARKED AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY
Jul 09, 2017
+ 138 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
83 complaints
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that on several occasions while attempting to shift into reverse, the vehicle jerked backwards while the brake pedal was depressed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 93,434.
Nov 09, 2022
I sitting on a incline put it in reverse and started backing up and the transmission just let loose and started rolling forward it's done this several times and sometimes it want back up at all even on level ground had it checked it was full of fluid but done a fluid and filter changed. And it still doesn't back up at times or when backing it stops backing and will go forward drifting
Oct 23, 2021
I WAS DRIVING FRIDAY AFTERNOON AFTER WORK WAS OVER GOT HOME AN PARKED IT WENT TO LEAVE TO GO TO THE STORE AN IT WOULD NOT GO INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED THE FIRST TIME WAS THE OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR I REPLACED IT AN IT DROVE PERFECTLY FINE I HAD IT SERVICED FOR OIL AN TRANSMISSION FLUID FLUSH AFTER THAT IT DROVE FINE FOR ABOUT A WEEK AN AS I DESCRIBED IN THE BEGINNING IT HAPPENED AGAIN SAME SYMPTOMS O/D FLASHING WOULDN'T GO INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE SO I REPLACED THE SENSOR AGAIN THIS TIME IT STILL DID NOT GO INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO THE TRANSMISSION SHOP AN THEY TOLD ME THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS SHOT IT HAS 212000 ON IT AN FORD KNOWS THESE GO OUT AN THE TRANSMISSION SHOP I GO TO SAID THEY REPLACE 12 EVERY MOTH CAUSE THIS IS COMMON WITH FORD VEHICLES SO WHY DOE FORD NOT COVER THIS AN WHY ARE THERE NO RECALLS ON THIS IN MY OPINION THIS IS A COMPLETE JOKE ON FORD NOW I HAVE TO SPEND 2400 ON REPLACING THE ENTIRE TRANSMISSION WHICH I THINK FORD SHOULD BE REPLACING IT FOR FREE KNOWING [XXX] WELL THAT THE TRANSMISSIONS GO OUT IN THEM FORCING THE OWNER TO PAY THE PRICE FOR NEW ONE IT'S ABSOLUTELY ABSURD FORD NEEDS TO GET THERE HEAD OUT OF THERE ASS AN REPLACE THESE FOR FREE FOR THE AMOUNT OF MONEY PEOPLE ACTUALLY SPEND ON FIXING THERE CARS OIL CHANGES TRANSMISSION FLUID FLUSHES AND TIRES THAT WE HAVE TO BUY EVERY YEAR PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Nov 25, 2018
FROM PARK, DELAY FROM 1 TO 7 SECONDS FOR ENGAGEMENT FOR REVERSE (AUTOMATIC TRANS), WORSE IN WARM WEATHER. SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE, AS YOU MAY PRESS ON GAS THINKING YOU'RE IN REVERSE, AND THEN ACCELERATE!! HEARD 1ST HAND FROM FORD DEALER THIS IS WELL KNOWN, AND SOMETIMES SEVERE. SOMETHING WITH SOLENOID PACK? HAPPENS OFTEN!
May 03, 2018
TRANSMISSION JUST FAILED ON THE HIGHWAY. NO FORWARD OR REVERSE GEARS. THE OCCURRENCE OF TRANSMISSION FAILURES FOR THIS VEHICLE IS EXTREMELY HIGH AND WELL DOCUMENTED. THE TRANSMISSION ON THIS VEHICLE IS UNRELIABLE AND UNSAFE BECAUSE OF POOR ENGINEERING. MY FAMILY WAS LUCK TO NOT GET REAR ENDED ON THE HIGHWAY RESULTING IN INJURY OR WORSE.
Apr 17, 2017
+ 78 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
35 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL FILTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.
Sep 12, 2014
TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE FILLED THE FUEL TANK UP AND THE LET THE VEHICLE SIT OVER NIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FOLLOWING MORNING SHE WENT TO START THE VEHICLE BUT THE FUEL TANK WAS VERY CLOSE TO EMPTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. AP *TR
Feb 14, 2014
AFTER FILLING UP MY TANK, THE FUEL GAUGE DROPPED TO EMPTY, AND THE CHECK ENGINE SOON LIGHT CAME ON. ALSO THE SYSTEM THAT TELLS ME HOW MANY MILES TO EMPTY ONLY SHOWS DASHED INSTEAD OF AN ACTUAL NUMBER. I HAVE LOOKED ONLINE AND THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON AND PRICEY PROBLEM. THE DAY AFTER I FILLED UP, IT JUMPED TO HALF A TANK AND THEN BACK TO EMPTY. THIS IS VERY UNSAFE AND I DON'T KNOW IF THIS WILL CAUSE OTHER PROBLEMS. I HAVE ONLY HAD THE TRUCK 3 MONTHS. *TR
Feb 21, 2012
THE FUEL GAUGE QUITS WORKING WHEN I FILL THE TANK. IT STARTS WORKING SOMETIMES AFTER A FEW DAYS. THE INFO CENTER THINKS I'M OUT OF GAS AND SENDS A WARNING. VERY ANNOYING. *TR
Feb 17, 2012
THE FUEL GAUGE IN MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC STOPPED WORKING. IT READS BELOW EMPTY AT ALL TIMES. I RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM ONLINE AND IT IS APPARENTLY A KNOWN PROBLEM IN FORD EXPLORERS, MOUNTAINEERS AND RANGER HAVING A FAULTY FUEL SENDING UNIT AND FUEL PUMPS IN THIS MODEL YEAR. THIS IS A HAZARDOUS CONDITION AND SHOULD BE RECALLED. NOT KNOWING WHEN OR WHERE A VEHICLE WILL RUN OUT OF GAS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE AND NOT KNOWING IF THE FUEL PUMP WILL FAIL IS ALSO A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. IT COULD BE ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY, IN HEAVY TRAFFIC OR IN A DESOLATE AREA. AFTER VIEWING SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ON VARIOUS INTERNET SITES, FORD IS ALSO STILL SELLING THESE VEHICLES PRE-OWNED AND NOT FIXING THE PROBLEM BEFORE THE SALE. FORD IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE AND HAS DONE NOTHING TO FIX THE PROBLEM EXCEPT TO CHARGE PEOPLE FOR THE REPAIR. *KB
Feb 02, 2012
+ 30 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
30 complaints
WHEN USING THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE 2005 FORD EXPLORER IS GOING DOWN HILL OR WHEN PRESSING COAST BUTTON, THE 2005 FORD EXPLORER STALL, ENGINE CUTS OUT. STEERING AND BRAKING BECOMES DIFFICULT.
Feb 27, 2018
I WAS BACKING UP FROM MY DRIVEWAY AND MY CAR ACCELERATED WHEN PUT INTO REVERSE AND IT PEELED OUT AND HAD TO HIT THE BRAKES REALLY HARD.SOMETIMES THE ENGINE SHAKES WHEN GOING FORWARD FOR A FEW SECONDS THEN IT GOES AWAY.
Feb 23, 2018
THE VEHICLE HAS A HARD TIME ACCELERATING, WHEN IT DOES, A "CLUCK" SOUND CAN BE HEARD, SOMETIMES ACCELERATION FAILS ALL TOGETHER. O/D LIGHT COMES ON AND BLINKS. CHECK TRANSMISSION LIGHT COMES ON.
Sep 06, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S GARAGE AND OTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. UPDATED 09/10/15*LJ
Jul 13, 2015
WHEN I SET THE CRUISE CONTROL IT WILL SOMETIMES JUST TURN OFF BY ITSELF WITHOUT ME TOUCHING THE BRAKE OR ANYTHING. USUALLY I CAN HEAR A NOISE AND THE GAS PEDAL WILL QUICKLY MOVE UP. ONCE THAT HAPPENS THEN I CAN NO LONGER SET THE CRUISE CONTROL. *TR
Oct 14, 2014
+ 25 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
21 complaints
FORD INERTIA SWITCH. WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MILES PER HOUR THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY LOST ALL POWER AND PROPULSION, CAUSING MY POWER STEERING TO GO OFF AS WELL AS ALL INSTRUMENTATION TO TURN OFF, WHILE MOVING AT 65 MPH. THE ONLY THING I COULD DO IS TURN MY HAZARD LIGHTS ON FIND AN EXIT AND COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THIS CAUSED AN EXTREMELY UNSAFE SITUATION, AND ONE THAT VERY WELL COULD HAVE ENDED IN DEATH. THE ONLY ISSUE IS THAT IT OCCURS VERY SPORADIC AND IT'S VERY HARD TO TROUBLESHOOT OR RECREATE THE FAULT.
Apr 29, 2019
TAKATA RECALL. FUEL GAUGE STOPPED WORKING CHANGED THE FUEL PUMP IN THE TANK 2 TIMES STILL DID NOT WORK. CHECKED FOR GROUND CONNECTIONS ALL SEEMED WELL. THE FUEL GAUGE STILL DOES NOT WORK
Apr 04, 2018
WE'VE REPLACED THE FUEL SENSOR IN OUR 2005 FORD EXPLORER XLT TWICE IN THE PAST TWO YEARS. WE HAD 68,000 MILES WHEN WE FIRST REPLACED THE FUEL SENSOR. IT IS A COSTLY FIX. NOW, AUGUST 2017, THE FUEL SENSOR IS NOT WORKING AND OUR SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE WE NEVER KNOW HOW MUCH GAS WE HAVE IN THE TANK. THE GAS GOES UP AND DOWN AND IS NOT RELIABLE. THE COMPUTER NEVER STATES THE CORRECT NUMBER OF MILES TILL EMPLY. I'LL BE DRIVING ALONG AND THE GAUGE GOES DOWN TO EMPTY AND THE COMPUTER STATES -------.
Aug 25, 2017
FUEL GAUGE DROPS TO EMPTY AFTER FILLING THE TANK UP AND STARTING IT. THE FUEL GAUGE REMAINS ON EMPTY. SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND STAYS ON. IT IS UNSAFE NOT KNOWING HOW MUCH FUEL IS IN THE TANK BECAUSE YOU COULD RUN OUT OF GAS AT 70+MPH AND CAUSE A CRASH. SEARCHING THE ISSUE ONLINE BROUGHT ME TO HUNDREDS OF 2002-05 FORD EXPLORER OWNERS WITH THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM. FORD MOTORS SHOULD PUT OUT A RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE BECAUSE IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.
Aug 23, 2017
THROTTLES BODY ASSY. STALL OR SURGE WHILE ENTER IN TRAFFIC MAKE VERY DANGER
Dec 30, 2016
+ 16 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
20 complaints
I got into an accident where I hit a semi head on and at 40 mph and the airbags never deployed. I got hurt and may seek a lawyer.
Oct 08, 2023
PUT KIDS IN CAR SEATS. GOT IN DRIVER'S SEAT AND CLOSED DOOR AND SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. FORD IS ACTING LIKE THIS IS THE FIRST TIME IT'S EVER HAPPENED BUT I SEE LOTS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT IT ONLINE. NOTHING DONE, SO FAR. WAITING TO SEE IF IT IS COVERED ON INSURANCE. LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP BELIEVES VEHICLE IS TOTALED BECAUSE THEY CANNOT PUT AIR BAGS BACK IN AND GUARANTEE SAFETY AFTERWARDS.
Aug 02, 2016
TAKATA AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY AFTER A HEAD ON COLLISION ON A HIGHWAY
May 09, 2016
TAKATA RECALL. DRIVING IN THE CITY MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER HAVE A CRASH AND AIR BAGS DO NOT OPEN.
Feb 17, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORT EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH DURING A STORM, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO HYDROPLANE AND COLLIDED WITH A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED MINOR PAIN IN VARIOUS AREAS OF HIS BODY, BUT DID NOT RECEIVE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A WRECKING YARD. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
May 08, 2015
+ 15 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
19 complaints
SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE PAST TWO YEARS WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS ALL THE ELECTRICAL TURNS OFF LIKE THE KEY IS TURNED OFF. IT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO STEER AS THERE IS NO POWER STEERING. IT ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AS THE CAR SLOWED QUICKLY. I AM CONCERNED AS THIS HAS BEEN REPORTED SEVERAL TIMES AND NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO SOLVE THIS ISSUE. EITHER FORD SHOULD FIX THE ISSUE OR PULL THIS CAR OUT OF SERVICE BEFORE SOMEBODY IS KILLED.
Sep 25, 2020
MY 2005 EXPLORER SPORT TRAC HAD A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COME ON AND WHEN IT DOES, MY INSTRUMENT CLUSTER STOPS WORKING. MY TACHOMETER, SPEEDOMETER, TEMP, AND FUEL GAUGES STOP WORKING. HERE LATELY, MY RADIO AND POWER WINDOWS HAVE STOPPED WORKING. MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AND REPORTED TO ME THAT THE VEHICLE STARTS SHAKING AND SHUTS OFF AS WELL. NOT REALLY SURE WHAT IS GOING ON WITH IT, BUT WHEN EVERYTHING STOPS WORKING, I SIT THERE AND HIT THE DASH TO GET THE LIGHTS AND WINDOWS TO START WORKING AGAIN. I USED TO BE ABLE TO HIT THE DASH WITH MY HAND AND GET THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO GO OFF AND THE GAUGES START WORKING. WHEN I CALLED MY LOCAL FORD STORE AND TALKED TO THEM IN SERVICE, THEY QUOTED ME LIKE $400 FOR A PART AND JUST AS MUCH FOR LABOR, LIKE THEY HAVE BEEN HAVING THESE PROBLEMS AND THEY KNEW WHAT IT WAS TO FIX. I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING, BUT WITH THE ODOMETER NOT REGISTERING MILES FOR THE PAST 6 MONTHS, I NOW HAVE A VEHICLE THAT IS CONSIDERED SALVAGE TITLE BECAUSE IT IS UNKNOWN MILES.
Aug 29, 2018
CLUSTER GOING BAD AND CUTTING POWER TO ENTIRE VEHICLE WHILE GOING DOWN THE ROAD , CITY ENVIROMENT
Dec 11, 2016
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE. CAUSED ALL MY LIGHTS (INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR) TO GO OUT WHILE I WAS DRIVING IN HEAVY TRAFFIC IN THE DARK ON AN 8 LANE INTERSTATE. TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN AUTO ELECTRIC SHOP FOR DIAGNOSIS. TOOK TO FORD DEALER FOR REPAIR. HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR ALMOST 2 MONTHS FOR THE REPLACEMENT PART (INSTRUMENT CLUSTER). FORD SAYS IT IS ON BACK ORDER. NOTE: THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD!
May 05, 2016
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER CUTS OUT AND RESARTS THEN CUTS OUT AGAIN CAUSING NO SPEEDOMETER TACH FUEL GAUGE OIL PRESSURE TEMPERATURE AND VOLTAGE GAUGE TO STOP WORKING. ELECTRIC WINDOWS WON'T WORK RADIO OUT ODOMETER BLANK HAPPENS RANDOMLY IN ANY CONDITION IDLE DRIVING EVERY WHEN NOT IN THE VEHICLE. YOU CAN HEAR THE RELAY CLICKING FROM OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE.
May 03, 2016
+ 14 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
19 complaints
THE WINDOW WILL GO DOWN BUT IT WONT GO UP ON THE DRIVER SIDE AND ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IT DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. *TR
Apr 23, 2015
THE PART THAT HOLDS THE VISORS JUST FELL APART WITH THE WIRES HANGING AND THE VISOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE BLOCKED MY VIEW AND THE VISOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE FELL BLOCKING MY SIDE MIRROR SO THE BOTH CAUSED A PROBLEM FOR ME TO SEE. WENT TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP PHILLPOT AND I WAS TOLD THAT THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING ALOT, SO THE GUY CUT THE WIRE NOW I HAVE TO GO BACK TO HAVE THEM DO THE SAME FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE CAUSE I CAN'T SEE MY OUTSIDE MIRROR ON THAT SIDE. THAT IS VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM CAUSE I ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT. THEY SHOULD HAVE A RECALL ON THIS PART. *TR
Jun 18, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGERS' POWER WINDOW SWITCH FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,691. *TR
May 14, 2013
HEAT COMPONENT: TRIED TO DEFROST THE WINDOWS ON MY VEHICLE, WHEN I ADJUSTED THE CONTROLS TO THE HEAT I BEGAN TO HEAR A LOUD CLICKING NOISE AND NO HEAT WAS COMING OUT OF THE VENT. WINTER IS IN AND IT IS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO SEE WHEN DRIVING DUE TO THIS ISSUE. TWO OTHER INDIVIDUALS WITH THE SAME MAKE & MODEL HAVE THE SAME EXACT ISSUE WITH THERE VEHICLE. I FEEL THAT IT IS A FAILED PIECE OF EQUIPMENT THAT CAUSES A HIGH SAFETY RISK. *TR
Dec 22, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH WHEN THE DEFROSTER FAILED TO OPERATE WHEN ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHERE THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE DASHBOARD WOULD HAVE TO BE REMOVED AND THE BLENDING CHAMBER WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. UPDATED 07/15/2013 *JS UPDATED 7/10/13 *CN
Nov 16, 2011
+ 14 more complaints for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
19 complaints
WE PURCHASED A BRAND NEW 2005 FORD EXPLORER AND HAVE KEPT THE MAINTENANCE ON IT. WHEN THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL IS TURNED TO THE WARM/HOT (RED) POSITION OR THE A/C UNIT IS TURNED ON, WE NOTICED A THUMPING NOISE OVER THE YEARS. WITHIN THE LAST COUPLE MONTHS, THE THUMPING SOUND HAS BECOME PROGRESSIVELY STRONGER (AS IF SOMEONE WAS PHYSICALLY PUNCHING THROUGH MY DASHBOARD/GLOVE COMPARTMENT), CAUSING MY HEATING/COOLING SYSTEM TO BE INOPERABLE. A RECALL NEEDS TO BE ISSUED TO REPAIR THE HEATING/COOLING SYSTEM AS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AND SHOULD NOT BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OWNER TO FIX. THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS THAT HAVE BEEN FILED ONLINE ALONG WITH COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER FORD OWNERS THAT WE KNOW. *TR
Sep 17, 2012
VEHICLE DRIVE BELT FALLS OFF WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO CRANKSHAFT PULLEY SEPARATING FROM ENGINE MAKING VEHICLE INOPERATABLE. *TR
Jan 11, 2012
STARTED TO FEEL A LOSS OF POWER AND HEAR KNOCKING FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE SO TOOK IT TO THE NEAREST GARAGE TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT AND I WAS TOLD US THAT IT WAS THE TIMING CHAIN AND THAT THE TIMING CHAIN ON A LOT OF THE NEW FORDS HAVE BEEN GOING BAD. NO WARNING, NO WARNING. IT IS RECOMMENDED BY EVERYONE TO REPLACE THE ENGINE. *TR
Nov 23, 2011
I WAS DRIVING HOME AND THE CAR DIED. AAA TOWED THE CAR TO MY REPAIR SHOP. MY MECHANIC SAID THAT THE TIMING CHAIN OR CHAINS (THERE ARE 5 AND THE ENGINE HAS TO COME OUT TO REPLACE THE REAR CHAIN) BROKE AND THE PISTONS HIT AND BENT THE VALVES. (ENGINE SHOT). I RELIGIOUSLY CHANGE THE OIL WITH SYNTHETIC EVERY 3-4000 MILES. THIS IS A DEFECT THAT FORD IS HIDING- THERE ARE COMPLAINTS GALORE ON THE INTERNET. I SPOKE TO [XXX] AT FORD CONSUMER IN MAHWAH, NJ AND GOT NOWHERE. PLEASE HELP, I CANNOT AFFORD A NEW ENGINE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B). *TR
Sep 07, 2011
I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER AND I HAD A FACTORY SPARK PLUG BLOW OUT OF MY ENGINE. IT WAS THE THIRD ONE BACK ON THE RIGHT SIDE. *TR
Nov 27, 2010
+ 14 more complaints for this component
WHEELS
12 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP LIGHT, THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND ROLLED AWAY FROM THE VEHICLE INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DETERMINED THAT FOUR OF FIVE WHEELS STUDS HAD SHEARED OFF. THE WHEEL STUDS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, WHILE DRIVING LATER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 165,000.
Sep 28, 2020
AT 55MPH THE REAR LUGS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE SHEARED OFF CAUSING THE TIRE TO FLY OFF. BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A SAFE STOP OFF THE HIGHWAY AND HAD IT TOWED TO A FORD DEALERSHIP. WAS TOLD THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THE 2002-2005 FORD EXPLORER. *TR
Sep 29, 2014
WHILE PULLING INTO THE DRIVEWAY OF A GAS STATION HEARD A THUMP FROM THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE/RIM. WHEN LEAVING THE GAS STATION NOTICED A VIBRATION WHICH BECAME INCREASINGLY MORE VIOLENT. WHILE ROUNDING A CURVE 4 OUT OF 5 LUGS SHEARED (CAUSING THE LUGNUTS AND CENTERCAP TO FLY OFF). *TR
Sep 29, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE LUG NUTS BECAME DETACHED FROM THE REAR TIRES WITHOUT WARNING, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO BARELY AVOID A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE INCORRECT LUG NUTS WERE ON THE VEHICLE WHICH WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000.
Sep 25, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH AND TURNING LEFT TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE LUGS NUTS HAD SHEARED OFF, CAUSING THE FAILURE. AS A RESULT, THE LUG NUTS HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE HAD RECURRED WITH BOTH OF THE REAR TIRE LUG NUTS, WHICH STARTED TO SHEAR OFF AND CAUSED A LOUD NOISE WHILE DRIVING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 95,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 115,000. *TR
Jul 15, 2013
+ 7 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
11 complaints
NEED TO RECALL THE GASKET HEADS. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS OF THE SAME ISSUE. LITTLE HOLES MELTED ON THE HEAD. OVERHEATING VEHICLE AND SMOKING OUT ANTIFREEZE WHILE DRIVING. WHY IT'S THIS MATERIAL PLASTIC?
Aug 08, 2018
ABOUT 7 MONTHS AGO I STARTED HAVING AN ISSUE WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET, THAT SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR IT WOULD REV AND HESITATE AND WHEN IT DOES IT TO MANY TIMES WHILE DRIVING THE CHECK TRANSMISSION MESSAGE APPEARS ON THE DISPLAY AND ALSO THE O/D LIGHT BLINKS AND MY TRUCK WILL ACT FUNNY UNTIL I SHUT IT OFF. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE AND WHEN I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC IT IS GIVING THEM SEVERAL DIFFERENT ERROR CODES AND THEY ARE NOT WILLING TO TRY ALL 6 CODES TO FIGURE IT OUT. SINCE IT IS A CLOSED TRANSMISSION CASE THAT HAS NO DRAIN PLUG AND NO DIP STICK TO CHECK THE FLUID THEY REALLY DON'T WANT TO MESS WITH IT AND COST ME A TON OF MONEY TO FIGURE IT OUT. I HAVE 106,000 MILES ON IT CURRENTLY AND HOPE YOU GIVE ME A MORE PINPOINT RESOLUTION SO I CAN DECIDE IF I SHOULD GET IT REPAIRED AND WHAT MORE SPECIFICALLY THEY CAN TRY.
Jun 06, 2018
DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT ABOUT 70 MPH, SUNROOF WAS TILTED IN VENT POSITION WHEN MY SUNROOF EXPLODED. GLASS REIGNED DOWN ON ME. I THOUGHT SOMETHING HAD SMASHED THROUGH, BUT I COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING. LOOKS LIKE IT ACTUALLY BLEW OUTWARD IN THE CENTER. IT'S POSSIBLE SOMETHING HIT IT, BUT I DID NOT SEE ANYTHING. IT JUST WAS A LOUD "EXPLOSION" AND THAT WAS IT.
Jan 30, 2018
PANT IS FLANKING OFF ROOF
Jan 30, 2018
WHILE USING CRUISE CONTROL, WHEN THE VEHICLE DECELERATE GOING DOWN HILL THE ENGINE STALLS ALL WARNING LIGHT COMES ON AND ENGINES DIES. THIS HAPPEN ALL THE TIME WHEN I OR WIFE ARE DRIVE WITH OUR FAMILY
Nov 03, 2017
+ 6 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
10 complaints
2005 FORD EXPLORER - EVERYTIME I FILL THE GAS TANK FULL - THE FUEL GAUGE STICKS AND GOES DOWN TO EMPTY. *TR
May 02, 2011
WE FILL THE TRUCK UP. THE NEXT DAY THE GAUGE SHOWS FULL. GREAT FOR A LONG DISTANCE TRIP. *TR
Oct 16, 2009
EVENTS LEADING UP TO FAILURE:PASSENGER STRETCHING THEIR LEGS FAILURE: PASSENGER BUMPED A SENSOR SWITCH THAT IS SUPPOSED TO SHUT THE FUEL OFF IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT,THIS OCCURRED TWICE ON A BUSY HIGHWAY AND ONCE IN RESIDENTIAL CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SHUT OFF THE FIRST TIME ,I HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED THIS COULD BE FATAL ON A BUSY ROAD. *TR
Apr 01, 2009
2005 FORD EXPLORER FUEL SENSOR FAILURE. *TR
Jan 14, 2009
WHEN I FILL MY GAS TANK, OCCASIONALLY THE ARROW DOES NOT GO TO FULL. I ALSO HAVE AN ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION ON MY DASHBOARD THAT TELLS ME HOW MANY MILES I HAVE LEFT TO DRIVE BEFORE I AM ON EMPTY. THIS ALSO DOES NOT CHANGE. THIS HAS HAPPENED NO MORE THAN FIVE TIMES AND TAKES A DAY OR TWO FOR GAUGE TO READ FULL. *TR
Jul 22, 2008
+ 5 more complaints for this component
TIRES
9 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER WITH MICHELIN T235- 70T16 16' LATITUDE TOUR TIRES . THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING, THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE BLEW. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE TIRE WALL BLOW OUT. THE CONTACT WAS INJURED AND REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 81,000.
May 22, 2014
I GOT NEW TIRES, THEY SHOW LOW ON AIR, I MEASURE AND NOTICE THAT THEY HAVE MORE AIR THAN THEY SUPPOSED TO HAVE. THIS COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT. THE TIRE BRAND ARE FIRESTONE OWL P235/70R16. *TR
Jun 10, 2013
THE TIRE LOOKS FLAT, I NOTICE THE TECHNICIAN PUT MORE AIR THAN IT SUPPOSED TO HAVE, THIS COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Jun 10, 2013
TIRE THREAD SEPARATION(S) , SEVERELY VIBRATED THE WHOLE VEHICLE AT ALL SPEED..SEVER TO VERY SEVERE VIBRATION AS SPEED IS GOING UP TO HIGHWAY SPEED LIMITS. AT LOW SPEEDS IT FEELS LIKE YOU ARE HITTING A POT HOLE EVERY TIRE ROTATION. TIRE BRAND: YOKOHAMA GEOLANDER 235/65R17 DOT FBLS. INSTALLED IN A 2005 FORD SPORTRAC VIN [XXX] USED JUST OVER 14000 MILES....ALL TIRE PRESSURES, MAINTENANCE AND RECOMMENDED TIRE ROTATION HAS BEEN SERVICED ON THE SAID VEHICLE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Apr 16, 2013
MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER CAME WITH METAL VALVE CAPS ON THE TIRES, WHEN I BROUGHT IT IN FOR SERVICE WITH A LOW PRESSURE SIGNAL ON, THE DEALER TOLD ME THAT THE VALVE CAPS WERE FROZEN ONTO THE STEMS, AND IF HE TRIED TO TAKE OFF THE CAPS, THEY WOULD SNAP THE SENSORS IN THE TIRES, AND IT WOULD COST APPROXIMATELY $600. TO REPLACE ALL FOUR SENSORS. I RESPONDED THAT IT WOULD COST $600. TO PUT AIR IN THE TIRES BECAUSE OF A DESIGN DEFECT? THE RESPONSE WAS YES. MY POINT, IF YOU DID NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO CORRECT A MFR'S DESIGN ERROR, YOU ARE RIDING ON UNDER-INFLATED TIRES, CREATING A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION. *TR
Feb 24, 2011
+ 4 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
9 complaints
2005 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PREMATURE FAILURE OF BALL JOINTS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER A SCHEDULED TIRE ROTATION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THE UPPER BALL JOINTS WERE OUT OF SPECIFICATIONS, WHICH RESULTED IN THEM BEING REPLACED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE FRONT SUSPENSION WAS SEVERELY COMPROMISED.
Jan 23, 2013
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH THE REAR AXLE SEAL STARTED LEAKING AND HE COULD SMELL THE FLUIDS. HE CONTINUED TO DRIVE TO HIS DESTINATION. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE DEALER ADVISED HIM THAT THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL NEEDED TO BE REBUILT. HE STATED THAT THE FAILURE BECAME WORSE OVER TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,732 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
Nov 23, 2010
UPPER BALL JOINT BOOTS FELL APART GREASE WASHES OUT BALL JOINT FAILURE AT 52,000 MILES. *TR
Oct 13, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED WHEN HE TOOK HIS VEHICLE INTO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE MECHANIC INFORMED HIM THAT THE REAR COIL SPRING WAS CRACKING; IT WAS ENCASED WITH PLASTIC AND WATER GOT INTO IT. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 59,000. UPDATED 09/15/10. *LJUPDATED 09/16/10
Apr 13, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT CONTINUED TO HEAR A ROARING NOISE COMING FROM HER VEHICLE. SHE TOOK HER VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL BEARINGS WERE DEFECTIVE. THE NECESSARY REPAIRS WERE MADE BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TWO FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED AND, UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, ALL FOUR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE FOUND TO BE DEFECTIVE. ALL FOUR WHEEL BEARINGS WERE REPLACED AT THE COST OF OVER $600. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 120,000.
Feb 23, 2009
+ 4 more complaints for this component
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
9 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT COME EQUIPPED WITH CHILD SAFE LOCKS AND THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED WITH THE LACK OF HAVING THE SAFETY FEATURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND A COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
Mar 29, 2012
WHILE TRYING TO PUT MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER IN REVERSE, THE GEAR SHIFT BROKE WITHIN THE STEERING COLUMN. AFTER LOOKING ONLINE, I FOUND THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM. *TR
Feb 10, 2010
LOCKING MECHANISM ON THE INSIDE OF THE DRIVER DOOR STOPPED WORKING AFTER ONLY 41 THOUSAND MILES. WHEN VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR THE PROBLEM TO BE ADDRESSED, THEY ADVISED THAT THE WIRES FOR THE LOCK MECHANISM WERE CAUGHT INSIDE THE DOOR JAM, AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE LOCKING AND UNLOCKING BUTTON ON THE INSIDE DRIVERS DOOR WOULD NOT UNLOCK OR LOCK THE CAR. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A SAFETY HAZARD AS IF THERE IS AN ACCIDENT THE BUTTON WOULD NOT WORK TO UNLOCK THE DOOR AND ALLOW THE PASSENGER TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. I CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THEY ADVISED THIS IS NOT CURRENTLY A RECALL, THEREFORE I AM SUBMITTING THIS REQUEST FOR REVIEW AND FOLLOW-UP FOR POTENTIAL SAFETY DEFECTS. NO ACCIDENTS LED UP TO THIS EVENT, IT WAS JUST A SUDDEN ONSET WHERE THE LOCKING MECHANISM FAILED AFTER VERY LITTLE USE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND ASSISTANCE. *TR
Mar 14, 2008
2005 FORD EXPLORER, REAR LIFTGATE GLASS WILL OPEN BY ITSELF WHILE I AM DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. IT HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE WE HAVE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. I CAN BE GOING 30 MPH OR 60 MPH, DOESN'T MATTER. DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY PATTERN AS TO WHEN IT HAPPENS, SO IS UNPREDICTABLE. THIS CREATES A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION IF IT HAPPENS WHEN I AM ON A 6 LANE EXCHANGE. ALSO, IF I HAVE MY DOGS IN THE BACK OR ANYONE SITTING IN THE 3RD ROW, ANOTHER DANGEROUS SITUATION IS CREATED. THERE IS NO WAY TO "BUNGEE" THE GLASS PORTION TO SECURE IT. YOU CAN ONLY BUNGEE THE LOWER PORTION OF THE HATCH- NOT THE GLASS PORTION. LIVING WHERE WE CAN HAVE A HIGH WIND GUST AT ANY MOMENT CREATES YET ANOTHER PROBLEM SHOULD IT POP OPEN AND I CANT GET PULLED OVER FAST ENOUGH. THE VEHICLE IS NOW AT THE DEALER FOR THE 3RD TIME FOR THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE EVEN CALLED THE FORD COMPANY ITSELF, AND THEY HAVE OPENED A FILE. (FOR WHAT GOOD THAT HAS DONE ME) THEY CAN NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM, SO THEY TELL ME THERE IS NOTHING FOR THEM TO FIX. WILL THE VEHICLE CONTINUE TO BE RETURNED TO ME "UNFIXED" UNTIL MY WARRANTY PERIOD IS UP, AND THEN IT TRULY BECOMES "MY" FINANCIAL PROBLEM? THESE VEHICLES ARE TOO EXPENSIVE TO HAVE THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM CONTINUE. WILL IT TAKE A DISASTER AND SOMEONE BEING INJURED BECAUSE OF THIS FAILURE, FOR CORRECTIVE ACTION TO BE TAKEN? *JB
Jan 12, 2007
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR HATCH LIFTGATE GLASS OPENED WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A DEALER WHO DETERMINED THE LATCH LOCK ON THE LIFTGATE HATCH DOOR GLASS NEEDED REPLACED. THE PROBLEM PERSISTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED THE LATCH SWITCH FOR THE REAR HATCH GLASS WHICH CORRECTED THE PROBLEM.
Jun 14, 2006
+ 4 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
7 complaints
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle independently jerked forward. Additionally, the check engine warning light illuminated. 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 approximately 179,000.
Feb 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was making an abnormal clunking sound and shaking. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the timing chain was fractured, and a plastic piece had detached. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000. The VIN was not available.
Jan 12, 2023
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THERE WAS A REDUCTION IN ENGINE POWER. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
Sep 04, 2014
MY SON WAS DRIVING HOME AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH AT 10:30 PM AND THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF COMPLETELY. HE WAS ABLE TO RE-START IT. THERE WERE NO MAINTENANCE LIGHTS ON. I BOUGHT THIS CAR FOR MY TEENAGE SON IN APRIL 2014 AND THIS IS THE 3RD TIME IT HAS HAPPENED TO HIM. A MECHANIC CHECKED IT OUT, BUT COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. NOT SURE WHAT TO DO NOW, AND MY SON IS LEAVING FOR COLLEGE IN AUGUST AND DRIVING HIS VEHICLE. *TR
Jun 03, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING COOLANT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING PIECE HAD MELTED AND CAUSED THE LEAK. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
Nov 21, 2013
+ 2 more complaints for this component
STEERING
6 complaints
MY TRUCK'S STEERING COLUMN IS TIGHT. IT FEELS LIKE IT COULD LOCK UP OR BREAK OFF. THE KEY IS HARD TO TURN IN THE IGNITION; THE GEAR SHIFTER IS TIGHT TO SWITCH FROM PARK TO DRIVE. THIS IS OCCURRING WHEN I START THE TRUCK, THEN IT SEEMS TO BE FINE. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW FORD HASN'T BEEN ABLE TO FIGURE OUT THE MECHANISMS TO ENABLE A SMOOTH START. MY TRUCK HAS ONLY 49,000 MILES ON IT AND HAS BEEN SERVICED REGULARLY. I WORRY THAT IT COULD LEAVE ME STRANDED OR THE STEERING WHEEL COULD LOCK UP. HAVE THERE BEEN OTHER COMPLAINTS OF THIS NATURE?
Sep 30, 2020
I TRIED TO PUT THE CAR IN DRIVE AND THE SHIFTER BROKE OFF/
Oct 28, 2018
I OWN A 2005 FORD EXPLORER THAT I PURCHASED IN JUNE, 2005. ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2009, I ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER, WHICH HAD ROUGHLY 49,000 MILES DRIVEN AT THE TIME, INTO REVERSE IN ORDER TO BACK OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY. IN DOING SO, THE GEARSHIFT ALMOST COMPLETELY BROKE AWAY FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. I WAS ABLE TO TURN THE IGNITION OFF, BUT WAS UNABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER, I WAS INFORMED THAT THE GEARSHIFT IS NOT A SERVICEABLE PART AND THAT THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE STATED SHE HAD NEVER SEEN THIS ISSUE BEFORE, IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY, AND THE COST FOR A NEW STEERING COLUMN AND ASSOCIATED LABOR WOULD BE MORE THAN $1,600. SHE ALSO INFORMED ME THAT A USED STEERING COLUMN FROM A JUNKYARD WOULD COST MUCH LESS, BUT THAT SHE WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE EXACT AMOUNT UNTIL EARLY MONDAY MORNING. ON MONDAY MORNING, I WAS INFORMED BY KRF SOUTH THAT THEY COULD OBTAIN A USED STEERING COLUMN AND THE TOTAL COSTS FOR PARTS AND LABOR WOULD BE $620. I CHOSE TO HAVE THE USED USED STEERING COLUMN INSTALLED DUE TO THE PRICE DIFFERENTIAL. SIMPLY PUT, A GEARSHIFT SHOULD NOT BREAK OFF FROM THE STEERING COLUMN THROUGH NORMAL VEHICLE USE. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY FORD. I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION AFTER THE GEARSHIFT BROKE AWAY. HAD I NOT BEEN ABLE TO TURN THE VEHICLE OFF, I WOULD HAVE NEEDED TO REMAIN IN THE VEHICLE WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE UNTIL I COULD GET ASSISTANCE. NOW I HAVE A REPLACED STEERING COLUMN, WITH THE EVERLASTING THOUGHT THAT THE GEARSHIFT COULD BREAK OFF AT ANY POINT IN THE FUTURE. I HAVE A WIFE AND 3 SMALL CHILDREN AND I AM HESITANT ABOUT HER USING THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE FACT THIS MAY VERY WELL HAPPEN AGAIN. *TR
Oct 09, 2011
STARTED EXPLORER TO BACK OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND THE GEAR SHIFTER BROKE OFF OF THE STEERING COLUMN. HAD TO REPLACE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN FOR $1500. NO PREVIOUS PROBLEMS AT ALL. *TR
Feb 24, 2011
WHILE DRIVING FOR THE ORGANIZATION MEALS ON WHEELS, I PROCEEDED TO TRY AND SHIFT FROM PARK TO REVERSE AND THE STEERING OR GEAR SHIFT LEVER SNAPPED OFF. I WAS UNABLE TO PUT MY CAR INTO GEAR AND CALLED A TOW TRUCK WHICH TOWED THE CAR TO A FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS. I AM WAITING FOR AN ESTIMATE FROM THE SERVICE CENTER. *TR
May 25, 2009
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SEATS
4 complaints
METAL SEAT FRAME BAR COMING THROUGH OUTSIDE OF DRIVERS SEAT.. I AM 5' 3" TALL, 125 LBS...NOT FROM OVER WEIGHT DRIVER.. VERY PROMINENT METAL BAR MAKES SEAT ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO SIT ON. LUMBAR SUPPORT DIDNT LAST 5 YEARS...SEAT DANGEROUS TO ANYONE SITTING ON IT.
Aug 27, 2019
THE ACTIVHEAT HEATED CAR SEAT COVER MODEL # 6HCSCBL24 WAS RECALLED BECAUSE THE SEAT COVER COULD OVERHEAT AND BURN ME. ON AUGUST 12, 2011 I MAILED IN MY REQUEST FOR A NEW SEAT COVER ALONG WITH A 3" X 5" SECTION OF THE FRONT MESH FABRIC OF THE SEAT COVER TO ACTIVHEAT SEAT RECALL, C/O ATLAS NORTH, PO BOX 873, WOODBURY, NJ 08096. THE RECALL LETTER STATED THAT I WOULD RECEIVE THE NEW SEAT COVER IN 30 DAYS. IT HAS BEEN OVER 60 DAYS AND I HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE REPLACEMENT SEAT COVER. I HAVE CALLED 800-541-3722 TWICE TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE RECALL. THE ANSWERING SERVICE HAS TAKEN MY NAME AND PHONE # AND SAID THEY WOULD CALL ME. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CALL. PLEASE HELP ME OBTAIN THE NEW SEAT COVER.
Oct 22, 2011
MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER HAS 79,000 MILES ON IT. OVER THE LAST YEAR THE PADDING/CUSHIONING IN THE LEFT FRONT SEAT (THE DRIVER'S SEAT), AGAINST THE DOOR, HAS DETERIORATED TO A DANGEROUS LEVEL. THE METAL FRAME IS EASILY FELT, WITH THE DRIVER'S LEFT ARM, THROUGH THE SEAT COVER. IN ADDITION, THE LEFT SIDE OF THE BOTTOM PADDING FEELS ONE OR TWO INCHES LOWER THAN THE RIGHT SIDE. THIS PRODUCES AN AWKWARD DRIVING POSTURE AND THE DRIVER MUST LEAN AGAINST THE DOOR TO COMPENSATE FOR THE LOSS OF CUSHIONING. *TR
Sep 06, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR AN HOUR AND THEN CAUGHT FIRE. THERE WERE NO FLAMES, BUT THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WAS ENGULFED IN SMOKE. THE PASSENGER SEAT WAS ALMOST ENTIRELY BURNED. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THE FAILURE MAY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE SEAT HEATER. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER AND THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT YET BEEN DETERMINED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 36,000.
Dec 07, 2007
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A CRACK DEVELOPED ACROSS THE FULL LENGTH OF THE HATCH BACK DOOR. THE GLASS OF THE HATCH BACK DOOR ALSO SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,210.
Jun 12, 2014
THE FRONT WINDSHIELD GLASS WAS CRACK FOR NO REASON, JUST BECAUSE THE TEMPERATURE WAS 90S. WE HAVE OTHER CARS AND ALL ARE FINE. I BELIEVE IS THE METAL WHERE THE REAR MIRROR IS MOUNTED. BASED ON MY FORENSIC CLASS, CARS HAVE A LEAST 3 COATS OF PAINT, PRIMER, THE COLOR AND THE CLEAR COAT, THIS CAR ONLY HAS TWO COATS OF PAINT. *TR
Jun 05, 2013
CRACK AT BACK GLASS RUNNING DOWN THE CAR LEFT OF FORD EMBLEM. GLASS COULD FALL OUT. *JS
Mar 30, 2012
VERY LARGE CRACK IN THE REAR LIFT GATE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM LIKE 1 FOOT LONG AND 3/16 WIDE CLOSE TO THE FORD LOGO. *TR
Oct 07, 2011
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaints
WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT ON A RESIDENTIAL STREET, THE REAR WINDOW EXPLODED. IT APPEARS THE RIGHT REAR WINDOW HINGE HAD ROTATED OUT OF POSITION AND FRACTURED, CAUSING THE WINDOW TO BREAK. THE HYDRAULIC ARMS EXTENDED SINCE THE WINDOW WAS NO LONGER THERE TO HOLD THEM BACK, WHICH CAUSED THE LIFT GATE FRAME TO BEND, PLASTIC TO CRACK, AND ELECTRICAL WIRES TO BE EXPOSED.
Dec 05, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A MASSIVE CRACK UNDER THE REAR EXTERIOR LIFTGATE WINDOW PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE WINDOW PANEL WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED IN ORDER TO PREVENT THE WINDOW GLASS FROM DISENGAGING INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. KMJ. RETURNED BY USPS ON 4/2/2013. 2ND ATTEMPT ON 4/9/2013 FAILED. *KB
Feb 28, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT MANUALLY OPENED THE REAR LIFTGATE AND ONE OF THE WINDOW BRACKET BOLTS FRACTURED. THE UPPER PORTION OF THE WINDOW PARTIALLY DETACHED AND WAS TEMPORARILY BEING SECURED WITH A STRAP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THERE WAS NO RELATED RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,181.
May 15, 2012
SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, A GRINDING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE CALIPER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000.
Aug 31, 2016
I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT 60 MPH WHEN THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME SLAMMED ON THEIR BRAKES AND WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO STOP NOTHING HAPPENED AND I HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME WRECKING MY TRUCK AND BRUISING MYSELF BADLY. *JS
Feb 24, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30-55 MPH, THE BRAKES ENGAGED INDEPENDENTLY. ADDITIONALLY, THE 4X4 HIGH LIGHT AND THE ABS WARNING LIGHT WERE ILLUMINATED AFTER THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,884 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 77,459.
May 12, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
3 complaints
PARKING BRAKE SHOES BROKEN. ADVISED DURING REGULAR SERVICE THAT SHOES WERE BROKEN DURING EARLIER SERVICE AND WAS ADVISED TO WAIT UNTIL REAR BRAKES REQUIRED SERVICE SINCE PARKING BRAKE IS RARELY USED. DURING SERVICE ON 9/21/2011 REQUEST REPAIR OF PARKING BRAKE IN WHICH THE SHOES WERE REPLACED AT COST OF $424.19. INQUIRED AS TO CAUSE SINCE PARKING BRAKE IS RARELY USED AND WAS TOLD THAT COULD BE THE REASON. OVERHEARD ANOTHER SERVICE REP STATE THAT, QUOTE, "EXPLORER'S ARE NOTORIOUS FOR THAT". CURRENTLY CONTACTING FORD NATIONAL CUSTOMER RELATIONS TO INQUIRE ABOUT POSSIBLE PARTIAL REIMBURSEMENT SINCE PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE WIDE SPREAD. *TR
Sep 21, 2011
TL - THE VEHICLE OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE VEHICLE HESTITATES AND THERE IS A KNOCKING NOISE. THE CONTAT STATED THE VEHICLE WILL SLOW DOWN ON IT'S ON. THERE ARE NO WARNING INDICATORS. THE DEALER CAN NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2000.
Apr 02, 2007
WHILE ATTEMPTING TO BRAKE ON 2005 FORD EXPLORER, ALSO AM HITTING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SURGE TOWARD ANY OBJECT IN FRONT
May 26, 2005
PARKING BRAKE
3 complaints
I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. AT 57500 MILES MY EMERGENCY BRAKE LOCKED UP ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. I ENDED UP REPLACING THE REAR BRAKE ROTORS AND BRAKE PEDALS. AS IT IS I STILL NEED REPAIR DONE TO THE EMERGENCY BRAKES. THE EMERGENCY BRAKES WERE INOPERABLE AND WERE UNSAFE WHICH COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *TR
Oct 26, 2010
I PARKED MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER 'EDDIE BAUER' AT THE FLAT TOP OF A DRIVEWAY AT 115 HOPKINS LANE IN BECKET, MA 01223. I PUT THE VEHICLE INTO 'P' AND EASILY REMOVED THE KEY WHICH I STASHED IN THE CUP HOLDER AS ALWAYS. THE DRIVE OF THE CAR PARKED BEHIND ME WAS STANDING ABOUT 20 FEET TO MIGHT RIGHT AND AS I WAS WALKING BEHIND MY VEHICLE SHE YELLED 'MOVE! YOUR CAR IS ROLLING!'. I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET OUT OF THE WAY AS THE FORD ROLLED VERY SLOWLY BACK ABOUT 6 FEET AND THE TRAILER HITCH CRUSHED THE REAR BUMPER OF HER 1999 PORSCHE 'BOXSTER'. LUCKILY NOBODY WAS HURT. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE. THE DAMAGE TO THE PORSCHE WILL BE $1,400 + . HAD THE FORD MECHANISM BEEN WORKING CORRECTLY I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO EXTRICATE MY KEY. *TR
Sep 28, 2009
SUV WAS IN PARK WITH EMERGENCY BRAKE ENGAGED. DRIVER RELEASED HOOD IN ERROR GOT OUT TO CLOSE HOOD AND OWNER GOT OUT OF MIDDLE ROW TO RELEASE BRAKE. WHEN EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS RELEASED CAR ROLLED AND DOOR HIT PARKED VEHICLE DAMAGING FRONT PASSENGER DOOR. CHILD WAS IN CAR STRAPPED IN CHILD'S CAR SEAT. VERY SCARY FEELING FOR CAR TO BE ROLLING BACKWARDS WITH CHILD INSIDE CAR ALONE. *JB
Jan 03, 2007
EQUIPMENT
3 complaints
2005 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH AIR CONDITIONER *TGW THE CONSUMER WAS A QUOTED A PRICE OF $2,400 TO FIX THE AIR CONDITIONER. THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIR CONDITIONER FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME WITHIN 16 MONTHS. ACCORDING TO THE INVOICE, THE AC COMPRESSOR HAD A LARGE HOLE ON THE SIDE OF THE CASE. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE ORIGINAL DESIGN OF THE AIR CONDITIONER WAS DEFECTIVE. *JB
Oct 20, 2010
I RECENTLY WENT TO GET INTO MY CAR TO GO TO WORK, AND WHEN I TRIED TO ENGAGE THE GEAR SHIFTER IS DIDN'T WANT TO GO INTO REVERSE SO I TRIED AGAIN AND THE GEAR SHIFTER BROKE OFF OF THE CASING OF THE STEERING COLUMN AND I HAD TO REPLACE THE WHOLE STEERING COLUMN IN ORDER TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE AGAIN. *TR
Feb 25, 2009
ABOUT 1 MONTH AGO THE HEATER BEGAN TO NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY. IT KEPT MAKING A CLUNKING SOUND, BEFORE PROVIDING HEAT. NOW THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NOT HEAT AT ALL. I WAS LOOKING ONLINE, AND REALIZED MANY PEOPLE HAD THIS PROBLEM. WHY ISN IT A RECALL THEN. THE AVERAGE COST OF THIS REPAIR IS $600.00 . I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT FORD WONT STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT. *TR
Feb 06, 2009
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
MY EXPLORER TRANSMISSION JUST STOPPED WORKING GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, ALMOST GOT HIT BY A TRUCK. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM KEPT GOING IN AND OUT. CHECKED WITH A FORD DEALERSHIP THEY SAID IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH EXPLORERS AND THERE WAS NO RECALL. I CHECKED ONLINE AND THERE WAS OVER 10,000 COMPLAINTS MADE. I AM IN THE MILITARY HAVE 14 COMBAT TOURS, AND COME HOME TO HAVE MY LIFE PUT IN DANGER AGAIN ON SOMETHING THAT YOU ALL KNOW ABOUT. WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO STEP IN?
Nov 18, 2017
I BOUGHT ONE OF THE SHARPEST SUV'S I EVER SAW - A 2005 FORD EXPLORER XLT 4X4 6 CYLINDER. IT STARTED RANDOMLY DYING ON ME LIKE THE OTHERS I HAVE READ ABOUT (70+ ON THE INTERSTATE WAS THE MOST INTERESTING!) THIS VEHICLE DOESN'T HAVE A CABLE FROM THE GAS PEDAL TO THE THROTTLE; THE COMPUTER TAKES THE REQUEST FROM THE PEDAL AND THEN THE COMPUTER OPENS THE THROTTLE. SO, IF THE COMPUTER CAN'T "SEE" WHAT THE THROTTLE IS ACTUALLY DOING, THAT COULD BE A BAD THING, AND FOR SAFETY REASONS, SHUTS EVERYTHING DOWN (FORD'S SO CALLED FMEM "LIMP HOME MODE"). WELL, I REPLACED THE TPS, AND IT STARTED AGAIN. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, AND IN RETURN FOR 90 DOLLARS, THEY PLUGGED A BOX INTO MY SUV, PUSHED A BUTTON AND THEN TOLD ME THE PCM WAS BAD. THE PCM (POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE) IS THE MAIN BRAIN FOR THE CAR. EVERYTHING IS EITHER DIRECTLY CONTROLLED BY IT, OR BY A SUBMODULE (SRS, 4WD, ABS, EATC, INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, TPMS, AND VCM) THAT IT DIRECTLY CONTROLS. HERE IS THE RUB: CONSIDER PEOPLE THAT LOSE A LIMB, BUT CONTINUE TO FEEL ITS' PRESENCE. THAT'S' BECAUSE EVEN IN THE ABSENCE OF REAL TIME DATA FROM THE LIMB, THE BRAIN HAS A PROBLEM AND 'THINKS' IT SEES THE LIMB. IN CASE THE ANALOGY ISN'T CLEAR, IF THE PCM BEGINS TO FAIL, IT MIGHT SAY *ANY* SENSOR IS FAILING. BUT THE SENSOR IS FINE ' THE BRAIN IS 'BROKEN'. IF IT IS BROKEN DUE TO A HEAT OR VIBRATION ISSUE, IT CAN WORK PERFECTLY FOR HOWEVER LONG, THEN JUST GO NUTS FOR A LITTLE WHILE. THAT'S WHAT SCARES ME THE MOST ' THIS PCM CONTROLS EVERYTHING, RIGHT? WHAT HAPPENS IF IT COMMANDS THE THROTTLE TO WIDE OPEN, COMMANDS THE TRANSMISSION TO SHIFT TO 1ST, THEN FIRES THE AIRBAGS? CAN YOU PROVE IT COULDN'T? MY PROBLEM IN A NUTSHELL IS THAT AN EMISSIONS CONTROL ITEM LIKE THE PCM SHOULDN'T FAIL IN THREE YEARS. FORD SHOULD JUST FIX IT INSTEAD OF CHARGING A GRAND PLUS LABOR. ALL OF THESE OTHERS HAVING INTERMITTENT SURGING, STALLING FAILSAFE MODE AND THROTTLE ISSUES I AM BETTING IS THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
May 23, 2008
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO ACTIVATE THE HAZARD LIGHTS BECAUSE THE ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM HAD FAILED. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO MERGE OVER TO THE EMERGENCY LANE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
Oct 09, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE EVENTUALLY DIED WITHOUT BEING EXTINGUISHED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT YET DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
Sep 06, 2013
STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
2 complaints
REAR PASSENGER DOOR CAN'T OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE OF VEHICLE. DIFFICULTY IN REMOVING ANY TYPE OF PASSENGER IN AN EMERGENCY. NOTHING IS LISTED IN OPERATIONS MANUAL. CHILD SAFETY LOCK WAS PRESSED AT TIME SO CHILD COULD NOT OPEN DOOR. SINCE THEN TRIED TO UNLOCK CHILD SAFETY FROM INSIDE AND OUTSIDE AND IT IS IMPOSSIBLE. THERE IS NO WAY TO DO THIS. INVOLVES CHILD SAFETY LOCK WHICH IS BROKEN INSIDE OF DOOR. TRIED TO GET FIXED RECENTLY, BUT SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE WITHOUT DAMAGING DOOR. STILL CANNOT OPEN. HAVE HEARD OTHERS WHO HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM. HAVE NOT SEEN OR HEARD ANY RECALLS ON THIS ISSUE BUT IT SHOULD BE A FORD ISSUE NOT THE CONSUMER. THIS IS TOO DANGEROUS FOR ANYONE DRIVING IN THAT SEAT SHOULD AN EMERGENCY OCCUR AND THEY NEED TO GET OUT. *TR
Aug 16, 2014
FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER - GARAGE KEPT, LOW MILES DUE TO WORKING FROM HOME. DISCOVERED A CRACK IN THE BACK HATCH UPPER PANEL. WHEN REPORTED TO INSURANCE COMPANY (PROGRESSIVE) THE AGENT INDICATED THAT THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECT AND ALL FORD DEALERS ARE AWARE OF IT. I DISCOVERED OTHER FORD EXPLORERS AND EXPEDITIONS AROUND THE COUNTY WITH THE SAME CRACK. CRACK IS CAUSED BY LACK OF STABILIZATION BEHIND THE PANEL AND THE CRACK APPEARS DUE TO REGULAR CLOSING OF THE BACK HATCH. STARTS WITH A SINGLE CRACK (CAN LEAD TO MULTIPLE CRACKS). THE CRACK ALLOWS WATER TO ENTER THE BACK HATCH AREA CAUSING RUST AND DISABLING OR LIMITING THE BACK WINDOW WIPER. I WROTE A LETTER TO FORD AND EMAILED THEM REGARDING THIS MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND WAS TOLD THAT THIS IS NOT SOMETHING THEY TAKE CARE OF. COST TO REPAIR CAN RUN ANYWHERE FROM $275 TO $1,000, DEPENDING UPON THE SEVERITY. WE HAVE STARTED A FACEBOOK PAGE FOR THOSE OF US AROUND THE COUNTRY THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AND OUR NUMBER IS GROWING EVERY DAY. PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE 2002 THRU 2006 FORD EXPLORERS AND EXPEDITIONS. FORD HAS CHANGED THE MANUFACTURING FOR THE YEARS FOLLOWING. *TR
Mar 08, 2014
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
ON JULY 12, 2013, I TOOK MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER TO THE FORD DEALER WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED BECAUSE I WAS HAVING PROBLEMS WHEN I PUT THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE. AT TIMES IT'S VERY DIFFICULT TO PUT INTO REVERSE AND WHEN I PUT IN REVERSE THE VEHICLE JERKS OR LUNGES INTO GEAR. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR ABOUT 2 1/2 YEARS. THE DIAGNOSIS WAS OF COURSE MY TRANSMISSION. I CANT AFFORD TO HAVE MY VEHICLE REPAIRED AT THE COST OF $3946.20 AND I DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING MY EXPLORER IN THIS CONDITION, BUT I HAVE NO CHOICE AT THIS POINT. I WENT ONLINE TO CARCOMPLAINTS.COM AND FOUND 94 COMPLAINTS WITH THE SAME ISSUES ON THE 2005 FORD EXPLORERS. IN ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS SENT TO CARCOMPLAINTS.COM - A WOMAN WROTE THAT SHE SENT A COMPLAINT LETTER TO THE DEPT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS ABOUT THE ISSUES WITH THE 2005 FORD EXPLORES, THEY GET BACK TO HER TO TELL HER THAT THE FORD DEALER WILL PUT THE REPAIR UNDER SOME TYPE OF WARRANTY PROGRAM AND JUST CHARGE ME $100 BUCKS TO REPLACE THE SOLENOID. THIS SEEMS TO BE A DEFECT IN THE FORD EXPLORERS MADE IN 2005, SO WHY HAVE THE VEHICLES NOT BEEN RECALLED AND WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS?? *TR
Jul 15, 2013
I JUST BOUGHT A 2005 FORD EXPLORER XLT 4.0L V-6 4X4 WITH 45,000 MILES, AND WITHIN ONE MONTH, THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SLIP WHILE DRIVING. I TOOK IT TO ROB SIGHT FORD IN KANSAS CITY, MO AND THEY CHARGED ME $1,200 TO FIX THE VALVE CASING, BUT THE TRANSMISSION IS STILL SLIPPING. A WEEK LATER, THE DEFROSTER QUIT WORKING, AND NOW ONLY BLOWS OUT OF THE FRONT VENTS. I CHECKED WITH SEVERAL DEALERSHIPS AND THEY ALL SAID IT WOULD BE AT LEAST $1,100 TO FIX THE BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR. SO NOW I HAVE A 5 YEAR OLD CAR WITH 45,000 MILES THAT HAS NO DEFROST CAPABILITIES AND NEEDS A NEW TRANSMISSION, BOTH OF WHICH ARE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS IF MALFUNCTIONING. *TR
Aug 03, 2010
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
THE GEARS IN THE POWERED BRAKE/GAS PEDAL ASSEMBLY SEEM TO STRIP. THEN THE BRAKE/GAS PEDAL WON'T CHANGE POSITION. THAT CREATES A DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR THE DRIVER BECAUSE THE PEDALS GET STUCK TOO FAR AWAY FOR SOME DRIVERS AND TOO CLOSE FOR OTHERS. THIS IS A FLEET WIDE ISSUE FOR ALL FORDS WITH ADJUSTABLE PEDALS. *TR
Jan 13, 2012
VEHICLE: 2005 FORD EXPLORER; MILEAGE 62,300; SYSTEM MALFUNCTION INDICATING SERVICE WAS NEEDED; DIAGNOSTIC CODES INDICATE THE BRAKE PRESSURE SWITCH FOR DEACTIVATION OF SPEED CONTROL NEEDS REPLACED. CURRENT NHTSA/FORD RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO 2005 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES. CALL TO FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER INDICATES LACK OF INTEREST IN PROBLEM. *TR
Oct 20, 2009
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
CRACKED REAR DOOR PANEL JUST BELOW THE WINDOW, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FORD EMBLEM. MAY CAUSE REAR WINDOW TO FALL OUT UNEXPECTEDLY. FORD IS AWARE OF THE DEFECT BUT REFUSES TO RECALL AND FIX IT. *TR
Oct 24, 2011
THE FORD EXPLORER FROM THE MID-2000S IS STARTING TO SHOW MULTIPLE DEFECTS. FORD CO. ADVISED OWNERS TO REPORT THESE PROBLEMS THROUGH THIS COMPLAINT FORM BECAUSE AS OF NOW THEY ARE NOT DOING ANYTHING TO RECALL THE DEFECTS. THE BACK PANEL BELOW THE BACK WINDOW CRACKS VERTICALLY RIGHT NEAR THE FORD EMBLEM. SOME CARS HAVE MULTIPLE CRACKS. THE MAJORITY OF THIS TYPE OF FORD EXPLORER BODY TYPE ARE SHOWING THE CRACK. IT HAPPENS AROUND THE 5 YEAR MARK. I BELIEVE IT IS DUE TO FREEZE/THAW HAPPENING AT THE BACK WINDOW, WHICH THEN CRACKS THE BODY. IT IS AN EXPENSIVE REPAIR JOB AND OWNERS ARE ADVISED TO NOT EVEN BOTHER BECAUSE IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. IT APPEARS ABRUPTLY AND IS DISCONCERTING TO SEE THIS SUDDENLY AND FOR NO PERSONAL REASON HAPPEN TO YOUR CAR DUE TO BAD DESIGN. NEWER EXPLORERS HAVE BEEN REDESIGNED SO IT DOESN'T HAPPEN. THE SECOND DEFECT WHICH IS HAPPENING NOW TO MANY EXPLORER OWNERS AT THE 5 YEAR MARK IS THE FAILURE OF THE HEATING SYSTEM. THE DAMPER FLAP STARTS CLICKING NON-STOP AND THERE IS NO HEAT. AGAIN THE REPAIR IS EXPENSIVE BECAUSE THE ENTIRE DASHBOARD HAS TO BE TAKEN OFF TO REPAIR. THESE DEFECTS ARE WIDELY DISCUSSED ON THE INTERNET AND THIS IS THE ONLY REAL FORMAL WAY TO DOCUMENT THEM. THE FORD EXPLORER HAS PROVEN TO BE A REAL LEMON, FULL OF DESIGN DEFECTS AND A REAL DISAPPOINTMENT.
May 08, 2011
STEERING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
I OWN A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED IN NOVEMBER OF 2009. THE FORD EXPLORER HAD APPROXIMATELY 80,000 MILES ON IT. I PULLED INTO MY SISTER'S DRIVEWAY WHICH IS A FLAT, GRAVEL DRIVEWAY. THE FORD EXPLORER IS AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. I SHIFTED THE CAR INTO PARK AND THEN EXITED THE FORD EXPLORER. AFTER EXITING THE FORD EXPLORER, IT STARTED MOVING BACKWARDS. THE OPEN DOOR KNOCKED ME DOWN AND THEN THE TIRE ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE RAN OVER MY LEG. MY SISTER RAN AND STOPPED THE CAR. THE GEAR SHIFT MOVED FROM PARK INTO REVERSE. *TR
Jan 25, 2011
THIS INCIDENT REFERS TO A 2005 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER VIN # [XXX]. AFTER MAKING AN INVESTMENT TO PURCHASE A VEHICLE, ONE SHOULD NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THE SAFETY OF HIMSELF OR FAMILY BECAUSE THE GEAR SHIFTER BROKE OFF OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THIS IS WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME, THEN GOING TO THE FORD DEALER FOR A PART AND BEING TOLD IT COST 1300.00 DOLLARS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN. WHEN THE CHEAP WHITE METAL THAT HELD IT TOGETHER JUST SHEARED OFF. DOES A DEATH NEED TO OCCUR TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Oct 31, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A NEAR NEW 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE VEHICLE IS IN PRISTINE CONDITION AND HAS VERY LOW MILEAGE TO THE POINT WHERE IT IS BELOW THE INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE. SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, I HAVE FUELED IT SEVERAL TIMES, ALWAYS FILLING THE TANK TO THE TOP. EVERY TIME I HAVE FILLED THE VEHICLE UP, THE FUEL GAUGE HAS DROPPED TO EMPTY AND THE MILEAGE TILL EMPTY INDICATOR SHOWS JUST DASHES. IN ADDITION TO THE GAUGE DROPPING TO EMPTY MY "SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT" COMES ON IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE FUEL GAUGE DROPPING. AT FIRST I THOUGHT IT WAS POSSIBLY JUST A PROBLEM WITH MY VEHICLE SO I FIGURED I'D HAVE IT FIXED. THEN OUT OF CURIOSITY I DECIDED TO CHECK ONLINE AND WITH OTHER FELLOW OWNERS OF THE 2002-2005 FORD EXPLORER MODEL TO SEE IF THEY WERE HAVING THIS PROBLEM AS WELL. AND TO MY SURPRISE I FOUND THAT IT WAS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM. THIS ISSUE DISTURBS ME MAINLY BECAUSE IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. GOD FORBID MY WIFE IS TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD WITH MY 14-MONTH-OLD SON AND RUNS OUT OF FUEL DUE TO A FAULTY FUEL GAUGE ON A DESERTED DARK HIGHWAY. SINCE THIS WAS SUCH A COMMON PROBLEM I THOUGHT I WOULD BE ABLE TO COME ONLINE AND FIND OUT THAT THERE WAS A RECALL. BUT I DID NOT FIND THAT. ALL I FOUND WAS A BUNCH OF PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME EXACT THING. NOW MY QUESTION IS, WHY HASNT THERE BEEN A RECALL YET WITH AN UPDATED PART FOR REPLACEMENT? IF SOMEONE COULD CONTACT ME AND ASSIST ME WITH THIS MATTER I WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE IT. THANK YOU *TR
May 01, 2008
CONTINUOUS AND REPETITIVE MALFUNCTION OF GAS GAUGE. IT OCCURS VERY OFTEN AND IS A WELL KNOWN PROBLEM IN FORD EXPLORERS. ADDITIVE HAS BEEN ADDED TO NO AVAIL, I THINK FORD JUST WANTS OWNERS TO HAVE TO PAY FOR THIS AND PURPOSELY CONTINUES TO DESIGN VEHICLES LIKE THIS. IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY CONCERN...WHAT IF I RUN OUT OF GAS IN THE FREEZING COLD WITH TWO BABIES? *TR
May 01, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
TL*- THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING THE 2005 FORD EXPLORER WITH 30500 FAILURE MILEAGE ON SIX DIFFERENT OCCASIONS AT ANY RATE OF SPEED THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT ANY WARNING AND HAD TO BE RESTARTED IN NEUTRAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS, AND THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. *AK THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT ENGAGE. UPDATED 04/05/07. *JB
Mar 20, 2007
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE STALLED ON 3 OCCASIONS WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TO A SERVICE DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS UNSURE OF WHAT CAUSED THE PROBLEM.
Aug 31, 2006
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
2 complaints
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. SAFETY COMPLAINT WAS THAT LIGHT CAME ON THAT SAID HAVE YOUR VEHICLE CHECKED IMMEDIATELY. THE CONTACT TOOK VEHICLE BACK TO DEALER TO HAVE THE FUEL PUMP FIXED. DEALER FIXED THE FUEL PUMP. NO CRASHES. NO POLICE REPORTS. NO FIRES. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING ON ROAD WHEN LIGHT CAME ON. ALSO, BEFORE THE GAS GAUGE WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. *AK
Sep 29, 2005
MY GAS GAUGE ALL OF A SUDDEN READ E AND MY SERVICE ENGINE SOON CAME ON, ON A THREE MONTH OLD 2005 FORD EXPLORER WITH 2200 MILES. I HAVE TO GUESSTIMATE HOW MUCH GAS I HAVE AND IF SOMETHING DOES GO WRONG WITH THE ENGINE I WILL NOT KNOW AS THE LIGHT IS PERPETUALLY ON. THE DEALER STATES THE FUEL SENDING UNIT IS BAD AND THE PART IS BACKORDERED, I 'VE BEEN WAITING 3 WEEKS ALREADY. THE DEALER STATES THEY ARE WAITING ON 20 OF THEM FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM. I'VE CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY CLAIM TO HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROBLEM, THAT MY SITUATION IS THE FIRST THEY'VE HEARD OF IT. THIS CAN'T BE TRUE AS THE DEALER I TOOK MY CAR TO IS WAITING ON THE PART TO FIX 20 EXPLORERS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM. I'VE ALSO FOUND THIS PROBLEM POSTED IN NUMEROUS FORUMS ONLINE. I DON'T THINK IT'S SAFE TO DRIVE AROUND NOT KNOWING FOR SURE HOW MUCH GAS YOU HAVE OR WHETHER OR NOT YOUR ENGINE IS ALSO MALFUNCTIONING. FORD SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL AND EXPEDITE THE MANUFACTURE OF THIS BACKORDERED PART. *NM
Aug 04, 2005
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
As I was driving to work one morning suddenly my headlights and all interior lights, such as the dashboard, suddenly went out without any warning and nothing electrical would work such as the radio and the windows and all the gauges in the dash dropped to zero or the needle fell all the way to the left. This has become an ongoing problem and I never know when it's going to go out or come back on for that matter and sometimes when it's acting crazy My speedometer will just jump all over the place. I believe this is a safety issue not only for myself but for other drivers on the road as my lights may suddenly go out as I am driving to work at 4:00 a.m. when it is dark. It is also a safety issue because when this happens I have no idea what speed I am driving or how much gas I have left or if my vehicle is starting to get hot. I have not taken the vehicle to the dealer or anywhere else for fear of it costing an arm and a leg to fix the problem, as every single Ford that I have ever owned seems to have had some type of electrical issue. I do have video of my gauges going crazy as I am driving on the highway; however looking ahead in this form it looks as if I can only submit photos and not a video.
Jun 02, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
2005 FORD EXPLORER TRANSMISSION ISSUES. VERY COMMON ON THIS MODEL, BASED ON CUSTOMER/CAR OWNERS COMPLAINTS. REVERSE IS AFFECTED. COULD NOT REVERSE QUICKLY, ALMOST HIT BY ONCOMING CAR. VERY DANGEROUS. I HAVE CHILDREN!!!!
May 10, 2021
STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
THE FAN BLADES HAD MANY BIG CRACKS IN THE PLASTIC BLADES,THE DRIVER DOOR THE BODY IS CRACKED BY TOP OF DOOR HING BACK DOOR IS THE SAME, THE PAINT IS PEALING AND STARTING TO RUST ON TOP.THE PLASTIC THERMOSTAT CRACKED.
Nov 30, 2020
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHORTLY AFTER REFUELING, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE THEN ABRUPTLY ACCELERATED AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED WITHOUT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. ALSO, THE LOW OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT AND CHECK TRANSMISSION WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THEY WERE CLOSE TO HOME SO THEY PULLED INTO THE DRIVEWAY TO CHECK THE OIL LEVEL, WHICH WAS LOW. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED DUE TO DAMAGE CAUSED BY A DEFECTIVE OIL SENSOR NOT PROPERLY INFORMING THE CONTACT WHEN THE OIL LEVEL WAS LOW. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE DEALER CAPITAL CITY FORD LOCATED AT 8623 E. WASHINGTON ST, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46219) WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 250,406. INVALID VIN.
Aug 19, 2020
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
REAR WHEEL WELL SHOCK TOWER MOUNT IS RUSTED OUT. THERE IS NO REASON THIS SHOULD BE HAPPENING. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE.
Mar 24, 2019
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS REVERSING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED INTO DRIVE AND ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK AT 60 MPH. THE VEHICLE WENT THROUGH A BACKYARD, DROVE OVER A CURB, DROVE THROUGH A NEIGHBOR'S BACKYARD, AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED TWO BLACK EYES AND A CONCUSSION THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CRASH WAS NOT IN RELATION TO ANY RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,673.
Mar 12, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SEATS
1 complaint
THE DRIVER SEAT BACK KEPT FALLING INTO THE BACK SEAT WHILE DRIVING, NOW THE SEAT BACK DOESN'T MOVE. THE PASSENGER IS DOING THE SAME JUST NOT AS BAD. THE HEATED SEATS COME ON WHENEVER THEY WANT, BUT THE HEATED DRIVER'S SEAT HAS STOPPED WORKING ALL TOGETHER. THE SEAT BELTS RANDOMLY LOCK AND BARELY RETRACT.
Feb 21, 2019
STRUCTURE,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE FRONT, DRIVER'S SIDE, TIRE CAME APART AND CAUSED CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE'S BODY AND POSSIBLY OTHER DAMAGES NOT SEEN. I NEED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC FOR AN INSPECTION TO SEE IF THERE ARE OTHER DAMAGES. THE TIRE IS A GOOD YEAR EAGLE RS-A. THE DOT # IS 4B08 DLWR 3701. TIRE SIZE P235/70R16. I WAS DRIVING ON INTERSTATE I-75 WHEN THE TIRE CAME APART. IT WAS TERRIBLY SCARY. I DID NOT REALIZE WHAT HAD HAPPENED AND THOUGHT THE VEHICLE WAS FALLING APART. I PULLED ONTO THE EMERGENCY LANE AND REALIZED THE TIRE HAD COME APART. THE RUBBER COMING OFF THE TIRE CAUSED QUITE A BIT OF BODY DAMAGE. THE VISIBLE DAMAGES INCLUDE DAMAGES TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEAD LIGHT, RUBBER RIPPED OUT THE DRIVER'S SIDE BLINKER, MOLDING UNDER THE DRIVER'S DOOR WAS RIPPED OUT, PAINT DAMAGE, TIRE WELL DAMAGE AND LOOSENING OF OTHER MOLDING ON DRIVER'S SIDE. A MECHANIC WILL HAVE TO INSPECT FOR UNSEEN DAMAGES.
Dec 21, 2018
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
1) ABS, BRAKE, AND WRENCH FAILURE LIGHTS FLASHED ON FOR ABOUT 3 SECONDS AND TURNED OFF WHEN DECELERATING WITH CRUISE CONTROL FROM 55 MPH TO 45 MPH ZONES AT COURLAND, VA. VEHICLE MANUAL PROVIDES NO GUIDANCE ON THIS FAILURE MODE; ONLY 'WARNING LIGHTS TURN ON AND CONTINUE FLASHING, REDUCE SPEED AND TAKE VEHICLE TO NEAREST SERVICE PROVIDER' AND 'WARNING LIGHTS TURN ON AND STAY ON, STOP DRIVING IMMEDIATELY AND HAVE VEHICLE TOWED TO NEAREST SERVICE PROVIDER.' 2) APPROXIMATELY TEN MINUTES LATER, DRIVER BEGAN APPLYING BRAKES TO DISENGAGE CRUISE CONTROL AND SLOW FROM 60 MPH TO 35 MPH SCHOOL ZONE SPEED ABOUT 50 TO 60 M BEFORE SCHOOL ZONE WARNING SIGN AT CAPRON ELEMENTARY, VA, ON STATE HIGHWAY 58. 3) DRIVER CHECKED SPEED UPON ENTERING SCHOOL ZONE AND FOUND CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT STILL ON AND VEHICLE STILL TRAVELING AT 60 MPH. DEPRESSED BRAKE APPROXIMATELY 1/3 TOTAL BRAKING RANGE (4 CM), WHICH SHOULD HAVE LOCKED THE BRAKES AND BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A FULL STOP. NO EFFECT. CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT REMAINED ON AND VEHICLE CONTINUED AT 60 MPH. 4) AT THIS POINT, DRIVER REALIZED THAT HE HAD NO CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, PANICKED, AND DECIDED HE HAD TO STOP OR CRASH THE VEHICLE. DRIVER JAMMED THE BRAKE PETAL AS HARD AS HE COULD AND HELD. IT TOOK PROBABLY 3 SECONDS FOR THE REAR BRAKES TO FINALLY GO UP A LOGISTIC GROWTH RESISTANCE CURVE, GRAB, AND STOP THE VEHICLE. NO BRAKING BY FRONT WHEELS. ABS DID NOT WORK. CONTRIBUTING PHYSICAL DEFECTS: WORN-OUT FRONT BRAKES, EVEN THOUGH VEHICLE WAS KEPT UNDER RIGOROUS MAINTENANCE AND HAD VALID VIRGINIA STATE INSPECTION STICKER. WARPED FRONT BRAKE ROTORS MOST LIKELY INDUCED INTERMITTENT FALSE SIGNALS TO COMPUTER CONTROL CENTER CAUSING CRUISE CONTROL TO FAIL TO DISENGAGE.
Aug 14, 2018
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE TIRE PRESSURE THE LIGHT STAYS ON IN THE MESSAGE BOARD AND A MESSAGE WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM ALSO STAYS ON AND IT STALLS WHILE IM IN MOTION ON THE HWY AND STREETS AND TAKES AWHILE TO MOVE FOWARD AGAIN. I
Jul 23, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
ABS LIGHT AND ADVANCE TRACKING LIGHT AND 4X4 LIGHT AND CAR WITH TRACKING LIGHT ALL COMES ON AND THE BRAKING JERK WHEN STOPPING. ALSO LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT COMES ON EVEN AFTER OIL CHANGE
Apr 26, 2018
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
BRAKE LIGHTS DO NOT WORK. REAR TURN SIGNALS DO NOT WORK. IT IS NOT THE FUSE BECAUSE THE REAR BACK UP LIGHTS WORK AND THE HIGH CENTER BRAKE LIGHT WORKS AND THE REAR LIGHTS TURN ON WHEN I TURN ON THE HEADLIGHTS. JUST WHEN I PRESS THE BRAKES AND TURN SIGNALS (REAR) DO NOT WORK. RESEARCHING ONLINE, LOTS OFF PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH BEING THE CULPRIT.
Oct 23, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT NIGHT MY VEHICLES DASHBOARD BEGAN TO ACT ERRATIC. THEN THE BATTERY GAUGE RAPIDLY DROPPED INTO THE RED ZONE. WITHIN ABOUT 3 MILES I LOST MY INTERIOR POWER, HEADLIGHTS, TAILLIGHTS, AND SIGNALS INCLUDING MY HAZARD LIGHTS. WHEN LIMPING OFF THE INTERSTATE MY TRUCK HAD LOST ENOUGH POWER TO WHERE IT DIED OUT. ONCE AT THE DEALERSHIP IT WAS FOUND THAT THE ALTERNATOR FRIED OUT CAUSING A SURGE THAT WIPED OUT THE PCM AND UTILITY CLUSTER ALL WITHOUT WARNING.
Aug 31, 2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
MY GAUGES GO HAYWIRE THE NEEDLES SHAKE WHILE DRIVING AND WHEN CAR IS OFF NO KEY IN IGNITION. THE LIGHTS FLASH AS WELL. CAR WILL STALL IN TRAFFIC AT A STOP, THE RPM WON'T GO ABOVE 2 EVEN WHEN HWY GOING 60 MPH. MECHANIC SAID IT'S ELECTRICAL, THE DEALER TOOK OUT TOP COUNSEL AS A WORK AROUND FOR THIS ELECTRICAL ISSUE CLAIMING IT WAS NOT A RECALL.
Aug 25, 2017
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS FRACTURE IN THE REAR HATCH ABOVE THE REAR WINDSHIELD WIPER AND ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF THE HATCH. THE FAILURE ALLOWED MOISTURE TO ENTER THE DOOR. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE FRACTURE WOULD CAUSE THE REAR WINDSHIELD TO SHATTER, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES OR WORSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE INSPECTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
Mar 27, 2017
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE WAS DEPLOYED.
Feb 10, 2017
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
VEHICLE ENGINE WHILE TRAVELING, GENERALLY AT HIGH RATES OF SPEED GREATER THAN 40MPH, WILL RANDOMLY TURN OFF. THERE ARE NO WARNING LIGHTS, NO INDICATION ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE ENGINE JUST TURNS OFF. THE ONLY WAY OF KNOWING IS ONCE THE GAS PEDAL IS DEPRESSED TO INCREASE SPEED AND THEN REALIZED THE CAR HAD TURNED OFF. THIS IS HAPPENING MORE FREQUENTLY. I HAD TO BY A NEW CAR. EXPLORER JUST SITS IN THE DRIVEWAY. THIS HAPPEN RANDOMLY WITH NO NOTICE AND GENERALLY WHILE TRAVELING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 40 MPH
Nov 02, 2016
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
DISCOVERED UNDERNEATH THE BODY WHERE THE BODY AND FRAME MEET FOR THE BODY MOUNT BUSHINGS, THEY HAVE NEARLY DISINTEGRATED ON ALL FOUR BUSHINGS LOCATED UNDER THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATS. THESE BUSHINGS WERE MADE OF SOME INFERIOR FOAM MATERIAL WHEREAS THE REAR BUSHINGS ARE RUBBER AND STILL IN VERY GOOD CONDITION. THE REPAIR FOR THIS DEFECT WILL COST AROUND $600 TO $1,300 AND IF NOT DONE WILL RESULT IN THE CAB FALLING DIRECTLY ONTO THE FRAME THUS CREATING NUMEROUS SAFETY PROBLEMS INCLUDING STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY FAILURE OF THE TRUCK. THIS PROBLEM AFFECTS ALL SPORT TRACS MADE FROM 2001 TO 2005. THE INCLUDED PICS BEGIN WITH THE DRIVER SIDE (DRIVER SEAT) FRONT BUSHING, DRIVER SIDE (REAR SEAT) BUSHING, PASSENGER SIDE (FRONT SEAT) BUSHING, PASSENGER SIDE (REAR SEAT) BUSHING AND FINALLY THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR AND DRIVER SIDE REAR BUSHINGS (BOTH IN EXCELLENT SHAPE AND MADE OF ENTIRELY DIFFERENT MATERIAL) DISCLAIMER: THIS TRUCK HAS NEVER BEEN EXPOSED TO ANY SALT WATER (BEACH) ENVIRONMENT NOR WINTER WEATHER ENVIRONMENT (WHERE SALT WAS USED), OR MUD RIDING OF ANY TIME NOR HAS BEEN DRIVEN THROUGH FLOODED AREAS WHICH COULD LEAD TO THE CONDITION OF THE BUSHINGS. VEHICLE ODOMETER READING IS 125,496.
Oct 30, 2016
SUSPENSION,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
THERE ARE TWO CRACKS ON THE BACK TOP LIFT GATE WHICH ALLOWS WATER TO GET TO THE ELECTRIC LOCKS AND IT OPENS BY ITSELF WHEN WET. THE WHEELS BEARINGS HAVE TO BE REPLACED ABOUT EVERY 3 MONTHS. THE PASSENGER FRONT BELT TIGHTENS AND WILL NOT LOOSEN.
Jul 09, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WHILE PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY, WE FOUND THAT THE BACK WINDOW OF THE HATCH WAS COMPLETELY BROKEN AND THE BODY IN THE BACK WAS LIFTED OFF THE CAR. IT LOOKS AS IF THE HYDRAULIC ARM MALFUNCTIONED OVERNIGHT.
May 24, 2016
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
CAR STALLED WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. BRAKES AND STEERING BECAME IMPAIRED. LUCKY, I WAS IN THE RIGHTMOST LANE AND WAS ABLE TO NARROWLY AVOID COLLISION. INCIDENT OCCURRED AFTER A ~3HR DRIVE AS I WAS EXITING THE HIGHWAY (I.E. SLOWING DOWN). UPON RESTART, ENGINE TURNED OVER, BUT WAS UNDRIVEABLE DUE TO ITERATIVE SURGE/STALL CYCLES.
May 02, 2016
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH MAKING A TURN, THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND FAILED TO TURN OFF. IN ADDITION, THE WHEELS SEIZED AND EMITTED AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED AND RESTARTED SHORTLY AFTERWARDS. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Aug 19, 2015
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES WITH A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM AND HAS HAPPEND DURING HIGHWAY HIGH SPEED DRIVING. IT HAPPENS ON CARS BUILT 11/24/04 AND PRIOR. THE CODES ARE P2106 AND P2135. IT'S CAUSED BY A FAULTY THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR AND REQUIRES A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE RESET B36.11, B37.2 OR HIGHER. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM THAR FORD READILY ACKOWLEDGES. THEY HAVE UGRADED THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR TWICE WITHOUT SOLVING THE PROBLEM.
Aug 13, 2015
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THIS VEHICLE CONTINUOUSLY JUST CUTS OFF. WE HAVE TRIED SEVERAL DIFFERENT COSTLY REPAIRS AND THE TRUCK STILL DOES NOT RUN RIGHT, IT IS STILL CUTTING OFF. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE IT CAN HAPPEN ANYTIME ANYWHERE, EVEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. I SPOKE WITH FORD AND ALL THEY DID WAS OPEN A CASE FILE BUT TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING THAT COULD BE DONE. WE PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE IN DECEMBER 2014 AND WAS TOLD THE ONLY THING WRONG WITH IT WAS THAT IT NEEDED THE ROTORS TURNED ON THE BRAKES WHICH WE HAVE DONE. THEN IT STARTED DOING THIS. WE HAVE HAD IT TOWED 6 TIMES IN ABOUT 2 MONTHS. 3 MECHANICS HAVE TRIED TO REPAIR THE TRUCK WITH NO LUCK. WE ARE TAPPED OUT TRYING TO FIX THIS TRUCK. I FEEL SURE THE GUY WHO SOLD IT TO US KNEW THE TRUCK WAS DOING THIS BUT OPTED NOT TO TELL US. ALSO I BLAME FORD FOR THE PROBLEMS WE ARE HAVING, EVEN THEIR TECHNICIAN DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO FIX THE PROBLEM.
Jul 09, 2015
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, SUDDENLY THE WRENCH LIGHT CAME ON AND THE FAIL SAFE LIGHT CAME UP. VEHICLE WOULD BARELY RUN. CLEANED THROTTLE BODY AND IT SEEMED FINE FOR A WHILE. THEN THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN, DRIVING NORMAL, THEN BAM. THIS TIME IT SHUT DOWN AND WOULD BARELY STAY RUNNING...JUST ORDERED A NEW THROTTLE BODY. I WILL NOT OWN ANOTHER FORD.
Jun 25, 2015
STEERING,WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
HELLO WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, THE UPPER BALL JOINT IN THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT BROKE AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE AXLE, TIRE, AND WHEEL. THIS CAUSED ISSUES WITH CONTROL OF VEHICLE AND COULD HAVE CAUSE A MUCH GREATER ACCIDENT THAN WHAT OCCURRED. I WAS ABLE TO AVOID A MAJOR ACCIDENT, PARTIALLY DUE TO THE LOW SPEED AT THE TIME, HOWEVER HAD THIS OCCURRED WHILE I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE OR ON A CROWDED HIGHWAY, THIS COULD HAVE HAD EXPONENTIALLY WORSE OUTCOMES. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY NUMEROUS MECHANICS THAT THE BALL JOINTS ARE AN ISSUE FOR FORD EXPLORERS AND THIS ISN'T MY FIRST ISSUE WITH THEM MYSELF. I ALSO HAD ISSUES WITH MY 2004 EXPLORER. THIS WAS NOT AN ORIGINAL PART TO THE VEHICLE AND WAS CHECKED LESS THAN A WEEK BEFORE IT BROKE AND PASSED INSPECTION. PLEASE LOOK INTO BALL JOINT ISSUES FOR FORD EXPLORERS AND KEEP SOMETHING LIKE THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. A PICTURE OF THE VEHICLE IS BELOW. PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR MORE INFORMATION IF NEEDED. HTTP://OI59.TINYPIC.COM/T658XD.JPG. *TR
Dec 07, 2014
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
IM NOT SURE IF THIS SHOULD BE WITH ENGINE SECTION BUT I DIDN'T SEE A TRANSMISSION PART. I WAS DRIVING MY SUV AND TRANSMISSION LIGHT IN THE MESSAGE CENTER CAME ON AND SAID , OVER DRIVE ON /OFF KEPT FLASHING . TOOK TO A BODY SHOP NEARBY THEY DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM TO BE THE TRANSMISSION. WITH FURTHER INVESTIGATION MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT SECOND / THIRD GEAR WAS GONE . I ENDED UP SPENDING $4500 FOR NEW TRANSMISSION TO BE INSTALLED. THE MECHANIC INFORMED ME THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 2005 FORD EXPLORERS. *TR
Nov 05, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,TIRES
1 complaint
CONSUMER WRITES TO REQUEST AN INVESTIGATION CONCERNING THE BUSINESS PRACTICES OF A LOCAL AUTO REPAIR CENTER. *TGW THE CONSUMER DID NOT THINK, THE REPAIR FACILITY WAS ACTUALLY PERFORMING THE SERVICES ON HIS VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION, DUE TO LOW TIRE TREAD. HE STATED HE WAS JUST IN THE REPAIR FACILITY ONE MONTH PRIOR, AND NO MENTIONED TO HIM, THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. ALSO, THE ALTERNATOR WAS REPLACED. HOWEVER, IT WAS DETERMINED THE NEW ALTERNATOR WAS DEFECTIVE. *JB
Oct 01, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
BODY ISSUES: I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER AND HAVE NEVER BEEN IN A CAR ACCIDENT. MY TAILGATE SOMEHOW DEVELOP A CRACK THAT GOES THROUGH WHERE THE FORD LOGO IS. NOTHING HAPPENED TO THE SUV TO CAUSE THE CRACK. IT JUST SOMEHOW HAPPENED ON IT'S OWN. I BELIEVE THE VEHICLE IS DEFECTIVE OR AT LEAST THE MATERIALS USED TO MAKE THE VEHICLE. ELECTRICAL ISSUES: ANOTHER ISSUE I HAVE IS WITH THE ELECTRICAL. MY TURN SIGNALS (MOST TIMES) DO NOT WORK. I HAVE TO MANUALLY MOVE IT UP AND DOWN WHEN TURNING. WHEN IT DOES WORK, IT GOES REALLY FAST. MY REVERSE NOTIFICATION NO LONGER WORKS FOR SOME STRANGE REASON. ALSO, MY RADIO GOES LOUDER WHEN I TURN IT DOWN. I HAVE TO TURN IT OFF FOR A LITTLE WHILE, TURN IT BACK ON THEN TRY TO LOWER THE VOLUME. *TR
May 16, 2014
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
BECAUSE OF THE RECENT GM RECALL IGNITION ISSUE, I THOUGHT I SHOULD LET SOMEONE KNOW ABOUT THE SERIOUS SIMILAR ISSUE I HAD 3 TIMES BEFORE I TRADED MY CAR IN. THE CAR WOULD JUST SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING. AND ALL 3 TIMES, I PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RESTARTED THE CAR AND CONTINUED ON MY WAY. I WAS LUCKY TO HAVE A PLACE TO PULL OVER SAFELY. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC TWICE, FOUND NOTHING WRONG. TOOK IT TO FORD AND THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG. I TRADED THE 2005 FOR A 2011. I ALSO TOLD THE DEALER THAT I TRADED IT INTO ABOUT THE ENGINE JUST SHUTTING OFF FOR NO REASON AND TO CHECK OUT THE PROBLEM BEFORE THEY SOLD IT AGAIN. *TR
Mar 31, 2014
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
2005 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE REAR AXLE LEAKING. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE REAR AXLES WERE REPLACED AT 59,752. A YEAR LATER AFTER LISTENING TO THE NOISE IN THE REAR END FOR QUITE SOME TIME, THE PROBLEM RETURNED. SIX MONTHS LATER, THEY WERE REPLACED AGAIN. ALSO, THE REAR PANEL BENEATH THE WINDOW WAS RUSTED AND THE THROTTLE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, AS IT IS CAUSING VEHICLE HESITATION.*JB
Mar 27, 2014
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
CAR SUDDENLY QUIT AND THE ENGINE FAIL SAFE LIGHT CAME ON. COMPUTER SCAN SHOWED THE THROTTLE ACTUATOR/CONTROL WAS STUCK CLOSED, AND COULD CLEAR ANY CODES. VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE AT ALL.. I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED BACK TO MY HOME. ENGINE WOULD NOT RUN AT MORE THAN AN IDLE WITH THE ACCELERATOR FULLY DEPRESSED, AND THERE WOULD BE NO CHANGE IN THE RPM. *TR
Feb 12, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
HAD FUELED (FULL) 2 HOURS BEFORE. GAS GAUGE DROPPED TO EMPTY. MILES TO EMPTY SHOWS DASHES. SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT IS ON. *TR
Jan 21, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TRAVELING ON 459 NORTH, AROUND THE GRANTS MILL ROAD EXIT, I ENCOUNTERED THE POORLY PAVED ROAD/POT HOLES AND MY STEREO/CD SYSTEM NO LONGER WORKS. THIS PROBLEM HAD NEVER OCCURRED UNTIL DRIVING ON THE POORLY MAINTAINED ROADS IN THIS STATE. PLEASE CONTACT ME AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IN REGARDS TO HANDLING THIS PROBLEM. *TR
May 13, 2013
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THE FUEL GAUGE IN MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC STOPPED WORKING RECENTLY. THE ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON AS WELL. I WASN'T SURE HOW MUCH GAS WAS IN THE TRUCK SO I FILLED IT UP AND THE ENGINE LIGHT WENT OFF. AFTER DRIVING FOR SEVERAL DAYS, I NOTICED MY FUEL GAUGE WAS STILL SITTING ON "F" WHICH I KNOW WASN'T RIGHT, EVENTUALLY THE FUEL GAUGE CAME DOWN SOME AND THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON AND HAS STAYED ON SINCE. I HAVE ABOUT 67K ON IT NOW. I'VE REALLY ENJOYED THIS VEHICLE AND HAVE ALWAYS MAINTAINED IT'S CHECKUPS. I'M TAKING IT TOMORROW TO SEE WHAT IT WILL COST TO FIX. I DON'T LIKE DRIVING AROUND AND NOT KNOWING HOW MUCH GAS I HAVE OR THE FACT THAT THE ENGINE LIGHT REMAINS ON. I DON'T KNOW IF ITS ON BECAUSE THE GAUGE IS BROKE OR BECAUSE SOMETHING ELSE COULD BE GOING ON WITH THE ENGINE. EITHER WAY, I'M SURE IT'S GOING TO COST ALOT, WHAT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE DOESN'T. I'VE READ A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ON LINE AND AM SURPRISED NOTHING HAS BEEN MENTIONED ABOUT THIS BY FORD; BUT THEN AGAIN, WHY WOULD FORD WANT TO FIX SOMETHING THEMSELVES WHEN THEY CAN CHARGE THE CUSTOMER AN ARM AND A LEG INSTEAD!!!! *TR
Apr 09, 2013
STRUCTURE,TIRES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PANEL UNDER THE REAR WINDOW SPLIT AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE WINDOW, WHICH EXTENDED TO THE FORD EMBLEM. THE DAMAGE BECAME PROGRESSIVELY WORSE OVER TIME AND THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE WINDOW COULD EXPLODE WHEN SHE DROVE THROUGH A CAR WASH. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT HEAT COULD BE A FACTOR IN THE FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE REAR LATCH FAILED TO ENGAGE WHEN SHE ATTEMPTED TO CLOSE THE REAR WINDOW. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THAT SHE WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COSTS SINCE THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE. ALSO, THE TIRE SENSOR GAUGE REMAINED ILLUMINATED AT ALL TIMES. THE TIRE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A COMMON PROBLEM THAT COULD HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE SPARE TIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD TO CHECK THE AIR PRESSURE OF THE TIRES ON A CONTINUAL BASIS. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
Oct 03, 2012
SUSPENSION,TIRES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER, EQUIPPED WITH GOODRICH TOURING T/A TIRES. THE TIRE SIZE WAS P235/75/R16 AND THE DOT NUMBER WAS AP70L2113710. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS EXTREME AND CONSISTENT TREAD WEAR ON THE TIRES. DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE VEHICLE WOULD HYDROPLANE ON THE HIGHWAY. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, BUT STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT THEY WERE ABLE TO DO TO ASSIST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,575 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 68,874. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. UPDATED 05/21/12 *BF UPDATED 06/01/12
Apr 18, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
GAS CAP LIGHT COMES ON TRIGGERING THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. *KB
Aug 02, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT I SWITCHED ON MY TURN SIGNAL TO INDICATE A RIGHT TURN AND NOTICED THE NORMAL CLICK OF THE TURN SIGNAL WAS NOT OCCURRING. I LOOKED DOWN AT MY INSTRUMENT PANEL AND SAW THE RIGHT TURN LIGHT WAS LIT BUT NOT FLASHING. THE REST OF THE TRIP I HAD TO CONTINUALLY TURN ON AND TURN OFF THE TURN SIGNAL TO LET OTHERS NOW MY INTENTIONS SINCE THE SIGNALS WOULD NO LONGER FLASH. FINALLY I RAPIDLY WORKED THE SWITCH UP AND DOWN AND WAS ABLE TO GET THE TURN SIGNALS TO OPERATE CORRECTLY AGAIN. ALSO ON OTHER OCCASIONS THE SIGNAL WOULD CLICK VERY FAST WHICH AND THE ACTUAL SIGNAL LIGHT WOULD NOT FLASH OR LIGHT BUT WOULD EVENTUALLY START WORKING AGAIN. I ASSUMED IT WAS A BURNED-OUT BULB BUT WHEN IT CAME BACK ON AGAIN I KNEW THAT WAS NOT THE CASE. I SAW A RECALL RECENTLY FOR THE TURN SIGNAL SWITCH ON RANGER PICKUPS AND EXCURSION SUVS IN THE AGE RANGE OF MY VEHICLE AND THIS SEEMS TO BE EXACTLY WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH MY EXPLORER.
Jul 31, 2011
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING, WHEN I APPLIED THE BRAKES, THE CAR LURCHED AND MADE A NOISE. ABOUT 1 MINUTE AFTER THAT, A WARNING LIGHT THAT STATED "ENGINE FAIL SAFE MODE" AND A LITTLE WRENCH SHOWED UP ON THE LEFT OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. I WAS DRIVING HOME, AND THE CAR STARTED TO SPEED UP WITHOUT MY INCREASING THE SPEED USING THE GAS PEDAL. THE CAR CONTINUED TO LURCH OFF AND ON UNTIL I GOT HOME. I RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM ON THE INTERNET AND IT SEEMED TO BE THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY THAT HAD FAILED. UPON TAKING IT TO THE MECHANIC, THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT IS WAS. THE CAR WAS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE, I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED HAD THE CAR'S SPEED KEPT INCREASING. THE REPAIR WAS $1026.00.
Jul 15, 2011
STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FRACTURE IN THE REAR PANEL OF THE REAR WINDOW. IN ADDITION, THE AIR CONDITIONER BLEND DOOR WAS FRACTURED AND WOULD NOT ALLOW AIR TO PASS THROUGH THE VENTILATION SYSTEM. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 67,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Mar 16, 2011
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
THIS PROBLEM IS VERY STRESSFUL ON A SENIOR CITIZEN WITH A HEART CONDITION WHO'S HEART IS FUNCTIONING AT 60% AND ON MEDICATION EVERYDAY. UPPER BACK HATCH HAS FACTORY DEFECT CRACK NEXT TO THE LOCK, IN THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS IT HAS BEEN UNLOCKING ITSELF AT RANDOM, WHILE SITTING STILL OR DRIVING. NO INJURIES, MUGGINGS ,THEFT,KIDNAPPING OF GRANDCHILDREN AND/ OR ESCAPE OR THEFT OF FOUR CHILDREN YET!!!. I DO NOT HAVE THE EXTRA MONIES TO FIX..IT IS FORDS FACTORY DEFECT THAT I SEE ON EXPLORERS EVERYWHERE. I HAVE CONTACTED THEM , AND THEY STILL CLAIM NO SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
Mar 01, 2011
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TODAY, I STARTED OUR 2005 FORD EXPLORER TO DRIVE MY TWO CHILDREN TO THE BUS STOP. THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL LIGHT ON THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WENT ON OUT OF THE BLUE. I'VE HAD MANY CARS BUT THIS IS THE FIRST FORD AND SINCE AUGUST WE'VE PUT IN AN ALTERNATOR, NEW ENGINE AND NOW THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL LIGHT. OUR PRIOR SUV WAS A 1999 DODGE DURANGO AND WE DIDN'T HAVE TO PUT ANY OF THESE REPAIRS INTO IT. *TR
Feb 24, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM , BODY STRUCTURE , GAS PEDAL. *TR
Jan 26, 2011
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
2005 FORD EXPLORER FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS BAD AT 87,000 MILES AND BALL JOINTS HAVE SLACK IN THEM. RIDICULOUS THAT A CAR THIS NICE HAS SUCH PROBLEMS. LOTS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME THING ON THE INTERNET, REAR END HAS A ROAR IN IT TOO, OF COURSE I CAN'T AFFORD TO GET THIS STUFF FIXED. FORD SHOULD RECALL THESE AUTO AND FIX ALL THESE PROBLEMS. THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING ON A NEW VEHICLE WHICH HAS NEVER PULLED ANYTHING, ONLY DRIVEN TO WORK AND BACK 12 MILES A DAY AND TOP SPEED IS 45 MILES PER HOUR. LAST FORD I WILL EVER OWN. *TR
Dec 21, 2010
STEERING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
FROM THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE TO NOW 95K MILES I HAVE COMPLAINED OF A ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT END OF OUR 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORTS TRAC. THEY HAVE REPLACE A NUMBER OF PART AND CONTINUE TO TELL US THAT ITS A CHARACTERISTIC OF THE VEHICLE TO HAVE VIBRATION. I HAVE ASKED SEVERAL TIME FOR THEM TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK WITH THEM REFUSING. THEY HAVEN'T BEEN ABLE TO FIX IT. AS 100% DISABLED PTSD VETERAN I HAVE HIT MY LIMIT WITH THEM. THIS IS A PIECE OF CRAP AND I PAY ALMOST 600 A MONTH AND HAVE TO FIX IT ALL THE TIME. *TR
Oct 23, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,TIRES
1 complaint
HAVE OWNED 2005 FORD EXPLORER SINCE NEW. AFTER 35,000 MILES THE GAS GAUGE STARTED TO BOTTOM OUT ON EMPTY FOLLOWED BY A SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT STAYING ON. THE GAUGE WILL START WORKING AGAIN OFF AND ON BUT IT'S NOT RELIABLE. TRIED RUNNING A FUEL CLEANER THROUGH IT A COUPLE OF TIMES AND DID NOTHING FOR IT. ALSO THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SAYS IT'S READING A BAD SENSOR IN ONE OF THE WHEELS. THIS VEHICLE IS WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND BABIED BY MY WIFE. THERE SEEMS TO BE ALOT OF CONSUMERS HAVING THE EXACT SAME TROUBLES WITH THE SAME VEHICLES. WHY IS FORD NOT HELD LIABLE FOR THESE DEFECTS? THIS WAS NOT A BUDGET LOW COST CAR. WE PAID OVER $36,000.00 FOR THIS SUV. PLEASE HELP US IN ANY WAY YOU CAN. *TR
Sep 25, 2010
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON 77 NORTH IN FANCY GAP, VA, WHEN SUDDENLY I LOST POWER STEERING AND ACCELERATION. I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM CAR AND IN FACT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME SAID HE NOTICED BLACK SMOKE AND FLAMES UNDERNEATH THE CAR. I PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND THE CAR WAS IMMEDIATELY IN FLAMES. I EXITED THROUGH DRIVER SIDE DOOR. MY PASSENGER HAD TO EXIT THROUGH DRIVER DOOR AS WELL BECAUSE FLAMES WERE SPREADING ACROSS THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR. WE DISTANCED OURSELVES FROM THE VEHICLE AS THE ENTIRE THING BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. CARROLL COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT AND VA STATE POLICE ARRIVED. IT TOOK OVER 45 MINUTES FOR THE FIRE TO BE EXTINGUISHED; THE CAR KEPT RE-IGNITING, EVEN AFTER SEVERAL APPLICATIONS OF WATER AND ANTI-FLAME CHEMICALS. THE ENTIRE VEHICLE MELTED, INCLUDING TIRES. NOTHING WAS SALVAGEABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER WITH ONLY 47,000 MILES. IT WAS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED AND RECENTLY SERVICED. *TR
Apr 30, 2010
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE BEGAN TO SPUTTER. SHE RESTARTED THE VEHICLE TO RESUME NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION. ON ANOTHER OCCASION WHILE DRIVING, THE POWER STEERING AND BRAKES FAILED WITHOUT WARNING, WHICH CAUSED HER TO CRASH INTO A FENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE FUEL SENSOR AND THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR. THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR WAS REPLACED. THE REPAIR DID NOT REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 80,000. THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Nov 10, 2009
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
05 FORD EXPLORER HAS REPEATED (ENGINE THROTTLE CONTROL) LIGHT WARNINGS. THE VEHICLE, WHILE MOVING, LOSES POWER AND THEN STALLS. I SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF, THE PROBLEM SEEMS TO RESET AND THE VEHICLE THEN RUNS FINE. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON (2) OCCASIONS AND NOW FEEL THE VEHICLE MAY NOT BE SAFE. *TR
Mar 16, 2009
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
AFTER HAVING THIS VEHICLE FOR ONLY 2 YEARS, THE HEATER/ DEFROSTER DOES NOT WORK. IT SEEMS TO BE THE SWITCH THAT SELECTS HEAT AND COLD IS BROKEN AND ONLY MAKES A CLICKING SOUND, AND WILL NOT PULL IN HEAT TO DEFROST THE WINDOWS AND WARM UP THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THIS REPAIR COSTS QUITE A BIT OF MONEY. THIS IS ALSO A SEVERE SAFETY HAZARD DUE TO WINTER DRIVING CONDITIONS AND THE NEED TO DEFROST THE WINDSHIELD. I HAVE SEEN SEVERAL OTHERS COMPLAIN OF THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
Feb 07, 2009
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS (ABOUT 6 TIMES TOTAL) AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING, MY 2005 FORD EXPLORER HAS LOST ALL POWER. ALL INCIDENTS HAVE OCCURRED WITHIN THE PAST 6 MONTHS WITH THE MOST RECENT OCCURRENCE ON NOVEMBER 26, 2008. EACH INCIDENT HAS OCCURRED AT SPEEDS BELOW 45 MPH AND WHILE COASTING ON A SLIGHT DOWNGRADE. MY CONCERN IS THAT I WILL LOSE POWER IN A CRUCIAL SITUATION AND NOT BE ABLE TO STEER OR STOP EFFECTIVELY SINCE THESE FEATURES FUNCTION MOST EFFECTIVELY WITH FULL POWER. IN ALL INSTANCES I MOVED THE GEAR TO NEUTRAL AND RESTARTED THE ENGINE WITHOUT ANY TROUBLE. I DID CATCH IT ONE TIME BEFORE IT LOST POWER, AGAIN WHILE COASTING I NOTICED THE TACHOMETER DROP TO ALMOST 0. AT SEEING THIS I TAPPED THE ACCELERATOR, THE RPM WENT BACK TO A NORMAL RANGE AND I DROVE ON AS NORMAL. *TR
Dec 01, 2008
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
2005 FORD EXPLORER XLT 4.0L V6 28,000 MILES PURCHASED NEW ON JULY 7, 2005 WE STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE FUEL SYSTEM IN THE END OF JUNE 2008 (INTERMITTENT LOSS OF FUEL GAUGE AND SERVICE ENGINE SOON DASH LIGHT) CALLED THE FORD DEALER ON OR ABOUT JULY 1, 2008. WE WERE DRIVING AND THE TRUCK ENGINE DIED, NO WARNING NO STEERING NO BRAKES, (THE WRENCH LIGHT AND ENGINE FAILED TEST MODE LIGHT CAME ON) SHE MANAGED TO GET IT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE IT STARTED UP AS IF EVERYTHING WAS OK, MOMENTS LATER IT HAPPENED AGAIN, THIS TIME SHE PUT IT IN NEUTRAL AND IT STARTED AGAIN WHILE MOVING. SHE DROVE IT TO MY HOUSE AND TOOK MY CAR HOME. *TR
Sep 10, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
2005 FORD EXPLORER, DRIVING ON A TWISTY COASTAL HIGHWAY, ABOUT 35 MPH, TURNED WHEEL TO FOLLOW RIGHT HAND TURN IN THE ROAD, THERE WAS NO POWER TO THE STEERING WHEEL, OR TO THE BRAKES. I HAD TO WRENCH THE WHEEL REALLY HARD TO THE RIGHT TO KEEP FROM DRIVING OFF OF THE ROAD. I FINALLY PULLED TO THE SIDE, TURNED ON HAZARD LIGHTS, REMOVED KEY FROM IGNITION. I REINSERTED KEY, CAR STARTED AND RAN AS IF NOTHING EVER HAPPENED. I DROVE FOR ANOTHER 20 MILES, ABOUT 40 MINUTES, WITHOUT INCIDENT. THEN THE ENGINE CUT OUT AGAIN-NO WARNING, JUST ALL OF A SUDDEN I WAS UNABLE TO ACCELERATE. SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, SMALL WRENCH ICON LIT UP, AND DIGITAL DISPLAY MESSAGE "ENGINE FAILSAFE MODE" APPEARED. THERE IS NOTHING IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL ABOUT THIS WARNING MESSAGE. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO FORD DEALER SERVICE WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED. THEY HAVE TOLD ME A SENSOR ON A BELT WAS DAMAGED WHEN THE BELT SLIPPED OFF ITS PULLEY, AND THAT SENSOR WAS THEREFORE UNABLE TO SENSE THE CRANKSHAFT, AND THEREFORE THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN. THERE WAS NO INDICATION OF WHY THIS OCCURRED IN THE FIRST PLACE, OR WHAT MEASURES COULD BE DONE TO ASSURE THAT IT DOES NOT HAPPEN AGAIN. THIS ENGINE SHUTOFF HAD OCCURRED TWICE BEFORE, BUT BOTH TIMES THE ROAD WAS UNCROWDED, AND STRAIGHT, AND THE CAR RAN FINE AFTER STARTING BACK UP, SO I DIDN'T REALLY THINK ABOUT IT. BUT THE IDEA THAT I COULD HAVE VERY EASILY DRIVEN OFF THE ROAD, OFF A CLIFF (!) AND DIED, OR HAD MY FAMILY IN THE CAR AND THIS SAME THING COULD HAVE HAPPENED, THIS TO ME IS TERRIFYING, AND UNACCEPTABLE. I REALIZE THERE IS INHERENT RISK IN DRIVING A CAR, BUT POTENTIALLY LETHAL MALFUNCTION OF THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE AMONG THOSE RISKS. *TR
Apr 15, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. WHILE DECELERATING FROM 45 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE, BUT COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE. THEY BELIEVE IT COULD BE THE TORQUE CONVERTER, SOLENOID, OR THE TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 48,600 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,580. UPDATED 01-29-08. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE HAS NOT STALLED WITHIN THE LAST 2 WEEKS. UPDATED
Dec 28, 2007
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
2005 EXPLORER WITH MULTIPLE PROBLEMS WITH THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION. CUSTOMER STATES THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER ON 3 SEPARATE OCCASIONS FOR SHUTTING OFF AND PASSING GEARS ALMOST CAUSING ACCIDENTS. *KB THERE WAS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE AREA. THE VEHICLE JERKED INTO PASSING GEAR WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRYING TO ACCELERATE. THE TRANSMISSION GASKET WAS REPLACED. THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULD NOT ENGAGE. THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL BULB WAS REPLACED. *JB
Sep 06, 2007
POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
THE CAR RPMS INCREASED WHILE STEPPING ON BRAKE, CAR HAS SURGED FORWARD ON AT LEAST 3 OCCASIONS AND ONE TIME IT SURGED BACKWARDS WHEN IN REVERSE AND HIT A POLE, EVEN THOUGH FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE. CAR HAS DIED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. DRIVER SIDE WINDOW HAS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES, DESPITE HAVING THE MASTER SWITCH REPLACED. *NM
Jan 19, 2007
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE SURGED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AT SPEEDS OF 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP ON FOUR OCCASIONS AND WERE UNABLE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE RING PIN GEAR WAS REPLACED THE FIRST TIME THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THE THIRD AND FOURTH CYLINDER SPARK PLUGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ON THE SECOND VISIT. THE CYLINDER SPARK PLUGS WERE REPLACED ON THE THIRD AND FOURTH VISIT. THE REAR AXLE WAS REPLACED DUE TO A SHUTTER COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE RIGHT HANDLE WAS LOOSE. THE LUMBAR SEAT SWITCH WAS LOOSE. UPDATED 09/13/06. *JB
Aug 11, 2006
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STEERING
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER WHICH LOOSES POWER STEERING CONTROL AND BRAKING ABILITY AT RANDOM. I HAVE TAKEN THIS VEHICLE INTO SERVICE AT THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR BUT NO SATISFACTORY OUTCOME IS THERE. FOR THE FIRST PROBLEM OF LOOSING THE BRAKING ABILITY, THE VEHICLE WHEN STARTED HAS NO PROBLEMS BUT AFTER DRIVING A SHORT DISTANCE (FEW METERS TO UP TO A MILE) THE ADVANCE TRACTION LOSS MESSAGE IS DISPLAYED IN THE MESSAGE CENTRE AND THE VEHICLE LOOSES THE ABILITY TO STOP IN THE REQUIRED STOP DISTANCE. WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE PULSATION IS FELT IN THE BRAKE PADDLE AND A SCREECHING HEARD BEFORE THE VEHICLE STOPS. THEN ONCE THE ENGINE IS TURNED OFF, AND VEHICLE RE-STARTED, THE MESSAGE IS RESET AND VEHICLE WORKS FINE. THE SECOND ISSUE IS THAT THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING, AT RANDOM GIVES THE MESSAGE IN THE DISPLAY WITH AN AUDIO SIGNAL INDICATING OIL PRESSURE LOW, SERVICE ENGINE SOON AND OTHER LIGHTS IN THE DISPLAY AND RPM METER SHOWING ZERO READING WITH LOSS OF STEERING ABILITY. THERE IS NO POWER ASSIST TO TURN THE STEERING WHEREAS THE ENGINE IS RUNNING AND ALSO VEHICLE ACCELERATES IF PEDAL IS PUSHED. I HAVE BEEN INTO THE DEALERSHIP THRICE BUT THE PROBLEM IS YET TO BE FIXED FROM LAST 15 MONTHS. THE CONTROL ON THE VEHICLE CAN BE GOT BACK ONCE THE ENGINE IS SWITCHED OFF AND RESTARTED. I HAVE RESORTED TO PUTTING THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND LET IT ROLL AND TURN THE ENGINE OFF AND THEN RESTART IT AND GET THE STEERING CONTROL BACK. I HAD LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE DEALERSHIP IN OCT 2005 FOR 10 DAYS TO DIAGNOSE AND RECTIFY BUT I WAS ADVISED THAT PROBLEM HAS BEEN REPORTED TO THE AUTHORITIES AT FORD BUT I AM YET TO HEAR BACK FROM THE DEALER OR THE OEM. *NM
Jul 24, 2006
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT NO SPECIFIC SPEED ALL THE WINDOWS WENT UP AND DOWN, THE DRIVER SEAT MOVED FORWARD AND BACKWARD, THE RADIO CAME ON AND WENT OFF, AND THE AIR CONDITIONER CAME ON AND WENT OFF. ALSO, WHILE ATTEMPTING TO APPLY BRAKE PRESSURE THE BRAKES VIBRATED AND A CLUNKING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALERSHIP INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND UNKNOWN REPAIRS WERE MADE; HOWEVER THE REPAIRS DID NOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN ALERTED.
May 08, 2006
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
DT: 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATES THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE REPAIR SHOP FOUR TIMES WITH NINE REPAIRS SINCE PURCHASE, APPROXIMATELY A MONTH AGO. THE REAR AXLE ASSEMBLY/WHEEL BEARINGS HAD TO BE REPLACED. ALSO, THE REAR WINDOW ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE/THE PULLEY IN THE MOTOR, HAD TO BE REPLACED, AND THE COMPUTER CHIP HAD TO BE RESET. THE KEY WAS GETTING STUCK IN THE IGNITION; THE DEALERSHIP COULD FIND WHAT WAS WRONG WITH IGNITION. THERE WERE OTHER PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE, BUT THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THAT INFORMATION . THE CONTACT WAS ASKING FORD TO TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK AT THIS TIME. A SERVICE ADVISOR WAS SUPPOSE TO SPEAK WITH THE CONTACT.*AK
Oct 12, 2005
STEERING,WHEELS
1 complaint
DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING A 2005 FORD EXPLORER SPORTS TRACK AT 20-25 MPH THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL FELL OFF. THE CONSUMER STATED THE KNUCKLE BEHIND THE WHEEL BROKE. THE ZONE MANAGER FOR THE FORD MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE DRIVER MUST HAVE HIT SOMETHING FOR THIS TO HAPPEN. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DRIVER DID NOT NOTICE ANY INDICATION THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITHIN THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER, AND ACCEPTED THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ZONE MANAGER. *AK
Aug 25, 2005
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2005 FORD Explorer have?
The 2005 FORD Explorer currently has 567 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2005 FORD Explorer?
The most common problems reported for the 2005 FORD Explorer are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2005 FORD Explorer problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2005 FORD Explorer comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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