Ford Explorer Investigated For Exhaust Odor Issues

The NHTSA office of defects are investigating the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer and the 2016-2017 Ford Explorer Police Intercept, after receiving reports exhaust smells in the vehicle occupant compartments. During the course of the investigation, 791 additional complaints were identified which included 25 accidents citing a total of 41 injuries. The alleged injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority indicating nausea, headaches, or light headedness.

Ford has issued multiple TSBs related to the exhaust odor issue and in some cases revised those documents multiple times to provide dealership technicians with procedures to address complaints raised by consumers and police fleets. Concerns over the effectiveness of the procedures have been raised by vehicle owners.