1994 Ford Explorer problems
The Ford Explorer is a range of SUVs manufactured by Ford Motor Company since the 1991 model year. As the first four-door SUV produced by Ford, the Explorer was introduced as a replacement for the two-door Bronco II. Within the current Ford SUV range in North America, the Explorer is slotted between the Ford Edge and Ford Expedition. As with the Ford Ranger, the Explorer derives its name from a trim package previously offered on the Ford F-Series pickup trucks.
The Explorer has been offered in multiple chassis and powertrain layouts. The first two generations were directly derived from the Ford Ranger, switching to a model-specific chassis for the third and fourth generations. The fifth generation was repackaged as a crossover SUV, adopting a variant of the Ford Taurus chassis architecture.
Alongside the five-door Explorer wagon, a three-door Explorer wagon was offered from 1991 to 2003, officially referred to as the Explorer Sport after 1999, serving as the direct replacement of the Bronco II; the 2001–2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac was a crew-cab pickup derived from the model line. For police use, the Ford Police Interceptor Utility has been derived from the fifth and sixth-generation Explorer to replace the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (and the later Taurus-based Police Interceptor Sedan). Through rebranding, Mazda, Mercury, and Lincoln have sold versions of the Explorer; Lincoln currently markets the sixth-generation model line as the Lincoln Aviator.
For the North American market, the first four generations of the Explorer were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly Plant (Louisville, Kentucky) and at its now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant (Hazelwood, Missouri); the model line is currently produced at Chicago Assembly Plant (Chicago, Illinois).
In 2020, CNBC reported the Ford Explorer range as the best-selling SUV of all time in America.
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Common 1994 Ford Explorer problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1994 Ford Explorer, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Transmission Fluid Leak: Some owners have experienced significant transmission fluid leaks after driving 15 to 20 miles, leading to a complete loss of transmission fluid. Despite replacing the flywheel and servicing the transmission, this issue persists, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards.
- Suspension: The Ford Explorer 1994 has been associated with suspension problems, resulting in a bouncy ride quality, especially on freeways. This issue may be addressed by checking tire pressures and replacing all four shock absorbers if needed.
- Ventilation System: Complaints have been raised about inadequate airflow to the floor area when defrosting the windshield, causing discomfort due to cold feet. This problem is attributed to a faulty floor/defroster door, requiring replacement to restore proper ventilation.
- Steering Column Rattle: Many Ford Explorer owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the steering column, often caused by a dislocated spring in the tilt lever. This issue can be bothersome and may require attention to eliminate the noise and ensure proper steering functionality.
- Power Door Locks: Issues with power door locks have been noted, particularly when the actuator disengages from the bracket, preventing access to the vehicle. This problem can be inconvenient and may require repairs to restore the functionality of the door locks.
- Rear Wiper Malfunction: Some Ford Explorers have experienced rear wiper glitches, leading to erratic operation or complete failure. This issue can be frustrating, especially during rainy conditions, and may necessitate repairs or replacements to ensure proper rear visibility.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1994 Ford Explorer highlight various mechanical and functional issues that can impact the driving experience and overall reliability of the vehicle. Addressing these concerns promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the optimal performance and safety of the Ford Explorer.
1994 Ford Explorer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Explorer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Ford Explorer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1994 Ford Explorer
The NHTSA has received 1421 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Ford Explorer. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1994 Ford Explorer vehicles.
2020-07-02
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-02
- VIN: 1FMDU34X0RU
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I LOOKED UP MY VEHICLE AND IT HAS A RECALL AND I WANT IT FIXED. *TR
2018-07-01
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-04
- VIN: 1FMDU34X0RU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PURCHASED VEHICLE TRANSMISSION OUT,CAME WITH REBUILT TRANSMISSION,INSTALLED,LASTED ABOUT 1 YEAR.KEPT BLOWING FRONT SEALS.ALWAYS HEATED UP GOING UPHILL.NEXT TRANSMISSION,SAME STORY.SERVICED REGULAR,WITH FILTER CHANGE.CURRENT TRANSMISSION IN TRANS. SHOP,BURNT UP,NEW CLUTCHES,BANDS,SEALS,YOU NAME IT.IT STILL WILL NOT SHIFT CORRECTY DUE TO SERVO PISTON FAILURE,THAT ALSO NEEDS FIXED.A4LD TRANSMISSION IN TOO SMALL FOR THE EXPLORER VEHICLE.I LIKE THE VEHICLE IN GENERAL,EVEN INSTALLED MANUAL LOCKOUTS TO HELP THIS SIDUATION.THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD GOOD CARE,BUT TO NO AVAIL.I BELIEVE THAT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR PRESENTING THE AMERICAN CONSUMER WITH SUCH BAD DRIVETRAIN SIDUATIION,THAT I AM SURE THAT THEY BOTH KNEW ABOUT,AND JUST DID NOT CARE.IT LEFT ME,A SERVICE CONNECTED DISABLED VETERAN,ON THE SHOULDER OF THE HIGHWAY,MANY TIMES.EVEN ON MY WAY TO THE VA HOSPITAL.REGUARDS
2014-08-23
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HIGH BEAMS ACT AS LOW BEAMS ALL THE TIME, UNLESS YOU PULL THE BRIGHTS TOWARDS YOU AND HOLD WHICH IS ALSO A FATALITY. *TR
2014-07-18
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, AN ODOR OF GASOLINE FUMES EMITTED INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED BRONCHIAL HEALTH ISSUES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION AS A RESULT FROM INHALING THE FUMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL LINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2013-11-10
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-10
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: APRIL, 1996 I, MY EX WIFE, AND MY DAUGHTER WERE COMING BACK FROM PALMDALE, LA COUNTY, TRAVELING EAST ON 138 HIGHWAY BACK TO ONTARIO, SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, WHERE I USED TO RESIDE. WHILE I WAS PASSING SLOW TRUCK IN TWO HIGHWAY TRYING TO GET BACK IN THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK ONE OF THE FRONT TIRES EXPLODED I LOST CONTROL OF THE 1994 FORD EXPLORER GOT ON THE DIRT THE CAR WAS AIRBORNE LANDED TURN GOD KNOWS HOW MANY TIMES AND LANDED ON THE SIDE. *TR
2012-02-13
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-11
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY TENANT'S VEHICLE - A 1994 FORD EXPLORER - SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN MY PROPERTY'S GARAGE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES AND DETERMINED THAT THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS THE CAR ITSELF - LIKELY A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL VALVE ACCORDING TO THEM. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WILL CONDUCT ITS OWN INVESTIGATION. *TR
2011-11-16
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-11
- VIN: 1FMDU32X4RU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT ALL OF A SUDDEN THE TRUCK ACCELERATED FORWARD. THE NEXT EVENT I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40 MILES AN HOUR AND THE TRUCK ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL AND I WAS UNABLE TO STOP IT, THE BRAKES WOULDN'T STOP IT, FINALLY I TURNED THE KEY OFF AND IT SHUT DOWN. IT'S BEEN HAPPENING ON AND OFF SINCE THEN. IT DOESN'T HAPPEN ALL THE TIME, BUT, I NEVER KNOW WHEN IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. I CONTACTED FORD SEVERAL TIMES ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AND THEY TOLD ME IT COULD BE ALOT OF DIFFERENT REASONS, THEY NAMED OFF SOME PARTS AND I REPLACED ALOT OF THEM AND AM STILL HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. THEY DID SAY THEY HAVE HEARD OF OTHER PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS, BUT THEY WERE NOT ALL FOR THE SAME REASONS. *TR
2011-09-28
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-26
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X7RU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: INVESTIGATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC COLLISION REVEALED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ON 1994 FORD EXPLORER (UNKNOWN MILES) MAY BECOME STUCK IN THE "FULL OPEN THROTTLE" POSITION. CONDITION OCCURS WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM WEARS A SLIT IN THE RUBBER SOUND/HEAT INSLUATION ON THE FLOOR BOARD. AFTER THAT OCCURS, WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS FULLY DEPRESSED, THE ARM CAN BECOME STUCK IN THE RUBBER. CONDITION WAS DISCOVERED DURING INVESTIGATION OF A FATAL CRASH. AFTER THE CONDITION WAS DISCOVERED, IT COULD BE EASILY AND REPEATEDLY REPLICATED. NOTE: FATALITY OCCURRED WHEN THE DRIVER, FOR UNKNOWN REASONS, EXITED THE VEHICLE WHILE IT WAS STILL IN MOTION AT UNKNOWN SPEED. DRIVER DIED UPON IMPACT WITH ROAD. VEHICLE CONTINUED OFF ROAD AND CAME TO REST, MOSTLY UNDAMAGED, IN A FIELD WELL OFF ROAD SURFACE. *TT
2011-01-29
STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU32X9RU
- Components: STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I TURNED ON AIR CONDITIONER AND IMMEDIATELY LIGHT SMOKE BEGAN OUT OF AIR CONDITIONING VENTS AND THEN THE NEXT MOMENT THE SMOKE WAS EXTREMELY HEAVY OUT OF THE VENTS AND THEN VISIBLE FIRE UNDERNEATH FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DASHBOARD. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND EXITED, 10 MINUTES LATER IT WAS FULLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. *LN
2011-01-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X7RU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1994 FORD EXPLORER HAD SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE AIR-CONDITIONER VENTS INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, SLIGHT AT FIRST, THEN SO HEAVY THAT FORWARD VISIBILITY WAS OBSCURED. AFTER STOPPING THE VEHICLE, A SMALL FIRE WAS SEEN BURNING THE PLASTIC EVAPORATOR COVER WHERE THE BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR ASSEMBLY IS MOUNTED IN THE EVAPORATOR COVER. SOME SNOW THROWN ON THE FIRE PUT IT OUT. THE BLOWER MOTOR APPEARS TO BE SHORTED OR MAYBE JAMMED FROM ROTATING, CAUSING THE RESISTOR TO GET HOTTER THAN NORMAL, IGNITING THE PLASTIC COVER. MAYBE LEAVES OR OTHER FLAMMABLE DEBRIS CONTACTED THE RESISTOR, BUT I CAN'T TELL AS THE FLAMES BURNED UP ANYTHING IN THE AREA AROUND THE RESISTOR ASSEMBLY. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A SAFE STOP, IN SPITE OF VERY LIMITED VISIBILITY IN THE HEAVY SMOKE. I WAS ON A SLOW SPEED, LOW TRAFFIC CITY STREET. THE RESULTS WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE IF THE FIRE OCCURRED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE BLOWER MOTOR WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION WHEN I REMOVE AND REPLACE IT TO TRY AND GET THE AIR SYSTEM WORKING FOR HEAT AT LEAST. *TR
2010-05-25
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-23
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: LIGHT CONTROL SWITCH HEATS UP SO HOT THAT WIRES AND PLUG IN MELT,BURN AND CRACK CAUSING LIGHT SWITCH FAILURE THAT COULD GO UNKNOWN CAUSING A CRASH OR FIRE. *TR
2010-04-01
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X4RU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. WHEN THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, DARK SMOKE BEGAN EMITTING FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF WHICH IMMEDIATELY BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT WERE NOTIFIED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 200,000.
2010-02-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMCU22X4RU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE SUV CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS CONSUMED BY FLAMES IN LESS THAN 5 MINUTES. ALTHOUGH MANY MAKES AND MODELS OF FORDS HAVE BEEN RECALLED ( FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL - POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD), THE 1994 FORD EXPLORER HAS NOT BEEN RECALLED. *TR
2009-10-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X6RU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THE FIRE INSPECTOR WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 175,000.
2009-10-14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU32XXRU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK CAUSING MY VEHICLE TO ACCELERATE AT A HIGHER THAN NORMAL SPEED IN AN APARTMENT PARKING LOT, WHICH CAUSED MY VEHICLE TO RUN INTO THE APARTMENT BUILDING AND CAUSED STRUCTURAL DAMAGE AND FRONT END DAMAGE TO THE EXPLORER. IT IS INOPERABLE AT THIS TIME DUE TO THIS INCIDENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS MADE AND INSURANCE COMPANY NOTIFIED. *TR
2009-10-12
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-28
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I DRIVE A 1994 FORD EXPLORER 4X4. MY COMPLAINT IS WITH THE FRONT BRAKES. WHEN THE INNER BRAKE PADS WEAR TO A CERTAIN POINT, THEY FALL OUT OF THE CHANNELS THAT THEY SLIDE IN CAUSING BRAKE FAILURE. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, ALL THAT IS LEFT TO STOP THE VEHICLE IS THE PISTON OF THE BRAKE CALIPER. THERE IS NO WEAR INDICATOR TO WARN THE DRIVER THAT DISC PADS ARE WORN OUT. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM. *TR
2009-06-15
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-10
- VIN: 1FMDU34X0RU
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED AS IS AND I HAVE HAD SOME PROBLEMS WITH IT . I NEED ROCKER PANELS , 3 BALL JOINTS AND A NEW MUFFLER. *TR
2009-03-03
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU32XXRU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE BRACKETS FRACTURED AND THE GLASS FELL OUT AND STRUCK HER ON THE HEAD. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 99V310001 (STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:SUPPORT DEVICE), ALTHOUGH THE FAILURES WERE IDENTICAL. THE CONTACT WOULD HAVE TO PAY $200 FOR THE REPAIR. CURRENTLY, THE WINDOW CAN NO LONGER BE OPENED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 170,000.
2009-02-25
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-24
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X2RU
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: RECALLED FIRESTONE ATX AND WILDERNESS TIRES. **NAR** *NJ THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING AT 70 MPH WHEN THE LEFT REAR TIRE SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC TREAD BELT SEPARATION. THE VEHICLE BECAME UNCONTROLLABLE AND SUBSEQUENTLY ROLLED WHICH CAUSED A FATAL HEAD INJURY TO A RESTRAINED 12 YEAR OLD OCCUPANT. IT WAS ALSO STATED THAT THE SPARE TIRES WERE ALSO DEFECTIVE AND THEY TOO SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM VEHICLES. *JB
2008-07-09
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-08
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY, DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT TIRE HAD COMPLETE TREAD-SEPARATION, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE, LEFT SIDE OF VEHICLE, AND FLATTENING THE REAR LEFT TIRE. ALTHOUGH THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT TIRE HAD COMPLETE TREAD SEPARATION, IT REMAINS INFLATED. THE DEFECTIVE TIRE, AS WELL AS ALL TIRES ON THE VEHICLE, HAD PLENTY OF TREAD LEFT, PASSING BOTH THE PENNY AND QUARTER TEST, WERE PROPERLY INFLATED, AND SHOW NO CRACKING OR WEARING. ALL THE TIRES WERE PURCHASED AT THE SAME TIME AND ARE TOYO RADIAL OPEN COUNTRY P235/75R15. A STEVENS COUNTY POLICE OFFICER WITNESSED THE TREAD SEPARATION AND STOPPED TO HELP. *TR
2008-06-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU32X4RU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 25-30 MPH, WHITE SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SMOKE AND THEN CAUGHT FIRE ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 150,000.
2008-05-21
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-19
- VIN: 1FMDU34X4RU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. AFTER MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE SLOWLY GAINED SPEED AND THEN UNEXPECTEDLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN MOMENTARILY, BUT DID NOT STOP COMPLETELY. THE SPEEDOMETER DISPLAYED 80 MPH AND THE REAR WHEELS BEGAN TO SMOKE, DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL ACCELERATING. HE MANAGED TO TURN THE KEY AND SHUT OFF THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE ENGINE, BUT THE RPM DIAL WAS IN THE RED ZONE. HE WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BACK TO HIS RESIDENCE AND DISCOVERED THAT THE THROTTLE PLATE WAS STUCK IN THE OPEN POSITION. HE REPAIRED THE FAILURE ON HIS OWN, WITHOUT THE DEALER'S ASSISTANCE. HE BELIEVES THAT HAD HE NOT BEEN KNOWLEDGEABLE OF THE FAILURE, IT COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT MORE SEVERE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 90,000. UPDATED 07/15/08
2007-12-14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-14
- Fire: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE STALLED MINUTES LATER, BUT QUICKLY RESTARTED. SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD AND THEN THE VEHICLE BURST INTO FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN, ENGINE SIZE, AND NUMBER OF CYLINDERS WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 90,000.
2007-10-17
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-27
- VIN: 1FMDU34X7RU
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS BROWSING FOR A USED CAR AND CAME ON AN ADD SELLING CARS I HAD NO VEHICLE I ASKED IF THEY CAN PICK ME UP ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CLINTON FERRY. THEY SAID YES THEY WILL PICK ME UP. SO CHECKED OUT THEIR INVENTORY. I PICKED A 1994 FORD EXPLORER LITTLE DAMAGE TO THE BODY, TIRES NEEDED CHANGING, THE FRONT WINDSHIELD HAS DAMAGE, AND REAR VIEW MIRROR WAS GONE. I ACCEPTED THESE AND ASKED FOR A TEST RIDE PROCEEDED OFF THE LOT THERE WAS NO GAS MAKING A TEST DRIVE SHORT. IT WAS AS IF THEY RUSHED ME THROUGH THE DEAL NOTHING WAS SAID ABOUT THE PROBLEMS. RETURNING HOME IS WHEN I BEGAN RUNNING INTO PROBLEMS THAT WERE SAFETY ISSUES. THE RPMS HAD GONE TO THE LIMITS OF SAFE OPERATION EXCEEDING 6,000 RPMS AND NOT SHIFTING TO A HIRE GEAR MAKING THE MOTOR SCREEN NEARLY EXPLODING THE MOTOR THIS IS CONSISTENT EVERY TIME YOU OPERATE. SO DROVE HOME WITH THIS PROBLEM. I ACCELERATED AND THEN LET OFF THE GAS AND IT THEN SHIFTED UP. I GAVE IT THE GAS IT SCREAMED AND I LET OFF THE GAS AND IT SHIFTED INTO THE HIGHER GEAR I ALSO HAVE STEERING PROBLEMS IT PULLS TO THE LEFT PULLING ME INTO ON GOING TRAFFIC, SHIMMIES AND THE TIE RODS CONNECTED TO THE STEERING HAD SOME PLAY IN THEM. SO WHEN I TURNED LEFT OR RIGHT I HAD NO STEERING UNTIL IT GOT TO CERTAIN POINT WHERE IT STEERED. THE VEHICLE FLOATS LIKE A BOAT A STRUT PROBLEM. NOW WHEN I WENT TO ESTIMATES FOR THE REPAIRS ITS PARTS AND LABOR CAME TOO ABOUT THE SAME AMOUNT I PAID FOR THE TRUCK APPROXIMATELY 4,400.00. SO NOW I HAVE THIS TRUCK I REFUSE TO DRIVE. I TOLD THEM TO COME AND GET IT AND NO WAY WAS I GOING TO DRIVE AN UNSAFE TRUCK SO IT SITS IN MY DRIVEWAY. I REFUSE TO PAY THEM ANY MONEY. THEY HAVEN'T CALLED ME, NOR MADE ANY DEAL.
2007-05-15
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMCU24XXRU
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE POWER CONTROL FOR SIDE VIEW MIRROR SHORTED OUT AND CAUSED ELECTRICAL SMOKE AND ORANGE GLOW/FIRE FROM SIDE CONSOLE. CHECKING YOUR SITE, YOU ALREADY LIST THIS BUT DEALERSHIP AND FORD DO NOT HAVE A RECORD OF THIS RECALL (97V083000).
1994 Ford Explorer recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1994 Ford Explorer.
2001-05-22
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
2000-08-21
- Manufacturer: BRIDGESTONE/FIRESTONE, INC.
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: TIRE DESCRIPTION: FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT, SIZE P235/75R15, PRODUCED AT THE DECATUR, ILLINOIS TIRE PLANT AND ALL FIRESTONE RADIAL ATX AND RADIAL ATX II TIRES, SIZE P235/75R15. OPERATION OF THESE TIRES AT LOW INFLATION PRESSURES, HIGH SPEED, AND IN HOT WEATHER, CAN CONTRIBUTE TO SEPARATION OF THE TIRE TREAD.
- Consequence: IF THE TREAD SEPARATES FROM THE TIRE, THE DRIVER CAN LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON AUGUST 29, 2001. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS SHOULD CONTACT FIRESTONE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-465-1904 FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
1999-11-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:SUPPORT DEVICE/STRUT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE HYDRAULIC LIFT CYLINDER BRACKET WELDS COULD FRACTURE.
- Consequence: WITH A BROKEN BRACKET WELD, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE LIFTGATE BRACKET TO GRADUALLY BEND INWARD ALLOWING THE LIFT CYLINDER BALL STUD TO DISENGAGE, UNEXPECTEDLY ALLOWING THE LIFTGATE TO FALL FROM AN OPEN POSITION.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL LIFTGATE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS. DEPENDING UPON THE CONDITION OF THE LIFTGATE SHEET METAL IN THE AREA OF THE BRACKET, DEALERS MAY ALSO INSTALL A LARGER REINFORCEMENT.
1997-05-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
- Summary: A SHORT CIRCUIT CONDITION CAN OCCUR IN THE REMOTE POWER MIRROR CONTROL SWITCH CIRCUIT BOARD AS A RESULT OF A SEPARATED PART OF THE CONTACT ASSEMBLY BRIDGING THE SWITCH POSITIVE BATTERY PAD AND ADJACENT CHASSIS GROUND PAD.
- Consequence: THE CURRENT CAN OVERHEAT THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD AND OTHER PLASTIC AND ELASTOMERIC COMPONENTS OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY RESULTING IN SMOKE OR FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN IN-LINE 10 AMP FUSE IN THE POSITIVE BATTERY FEED TO THE REMOTE POWER MIRROR CONTROL SWITCH ASSEMBLY.
1996-02-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE STUDS WHICH ATTACH THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE POWER BRAKE VACUUM BOOSTER ASSEMBLY CAN DEVELOP STRESS CORROSION CRACKING AFTER BEING OPERATED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME IN THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LOCATION.
- Consequence: IF A CRACK OCCURS, IT COULD RESULT IN ONE OR BOTH STUDS FRACTURING. THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD THEN SEPARATE FROM THE VACUUM BOOSTER, WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED, PREVENTING THE SERVICE BRAKES FROM ACTIVATING INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER BRAKE VACUUM BOOSTER ASSEMBLY.
1996-01-31
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:SUPPORT DEVICE/STRUT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENTS OF THE REAR LIFTGATE GAS ASSIST CYLINDERS WHICH COULD PULL AWAY FROM THE INSIDE OF THE LIFTGATE.
- Consequence: IF A BRACKET AND GAS ASSIST CYLINDER WERE TO DETACH COMPLETELY FROM THE LIFTGATE AND NO LONGER BEAR AGAINST THE LIFTGATE AS INTENDED, THE REMAINING ASSIST CYLINDER WOULD NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE IN AN OPEN POSITION. PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: FORD DEALERS WILL REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENTS.
1994-09-07
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL
- Summary: THE PARKING BRAKE CONTROL SELF-ADJUST PAWL DOES NOT LINE UP PROPERLY WITH THE SELF-ADJUST RACHET CAUSING THE PAWL TO SLIP OVER ONE OR MORE TEETH IN THE RACHET.
- Consequence: WHEN THE ABOVE OCCURS, IT CAN RESULT IN PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM INEFFECTIVENESS. THE PARKING BRAKE WILL NOT HOLD THE VEHICLE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO ROLL FREELY, IF THE TRANSMISSION IS NOT LEFT IN GEAR.
- Remedy: A WEDGE WILL BE INSTALLED WHICH WILL SERVE TO LOCK THE PARKING BRAKE SELF-ADJUST MECHANISM PAWL INTO ENGAGEMENT WITH THE RACHET. ALSO, OWNERS WILL BE ADVISED TO RELEASE AND REAPPLY THE PARKING BRAKE WHENEVER TOOTH SKIP OCCURS AND WILL BE REMINDED TO ALWAYS TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND LEAVE THE VEHICLE IN GEAR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PARKED.
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