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U.S. public vehicle records

2003 Ford EXPLORER SPORT problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

65 owner complaints analyzed

0 distinct recall campaigns

82,250 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2003 model year. Data updated: . 60 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Structure:Body is the most frequently named component, appearing in 13 of 65 complaints (20.0%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Engine operation57.7%
Braking behavior57.7%
Steering behavior57.7%
Electrical and battery issues34.6%
Transmission and shifting23.1%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Structure:Body
13
Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments
8
Visibility/Wiper
7
Structure
4
Unknown Or Other
4
Visibility
4
Visibility:Glass, Side/Rear
3
Air Bags
2
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Structure:Body13
Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments8
Visibility/Wiper7
Structure4
Unknown Or Other4
Visibility4
Visibility:Glass, Side/Rear3
Air Bags2

Structure:Body: 13; Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments: 8; Visibility/Wiper: 7; Structure: 4; Unknown Or Other: 4; Visibility: 4; Visibility:Glass, Side/Rear: 3; Air Bags: 2

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
13
25,000 to 49,999
8
50,000 to 74,999
5
75,000 to 99,999
9
100,000 to 149,999
20
150,000 and above
5
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,00013
25,000 to 49,9998
50,000 to 74,9995
75,000 to 99,9999
100,000 to 149,99920
150,000 and above5

Under 25,000: 13; 25,000 to 49,999: 8; 50,000 to 74,999: 5; 75,000 to 99,999: 9; 100,000 to 149,999: 20; 150,000 and above: 5

100,000 to 149,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (20). 5 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2003
4
2004
7
2005
3
2007
4
2008
6
2009
3
2010
8
2011
1
2013
10
2014
7
2015
3
2016
3
2017
1
2018
2
2019
2
2020
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20034
20047
20053
20074
20086
20093
20108
20111
201310
20147
20153
20163
20171
20182
20192
20201

2003: 4; 2004: 7; 2005: 3; 2007: 4; 2008: 6; 2009: 3; 2010: 8; 2011: 1; 2013: 10; 2014: 7; 2015: 3; 2016: 3; 2017: 1; 2018: 2; 2019: 2; 2020: 1

Pattern summary

Structure:Body leads the component reports. Engine operation appears in 5 complaint narratives. Braking behavior appears in 5 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 5 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10046048 · 2003-10-30 (October 30, 2003)

INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. SOMETIMES THIS OCCURRED MORE FREQUENTLY IN WET WEATHER. DRIVER WOULD LET VEHICLE SIT FOR TEN MINUTES THEN IT WOULD RESTART. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. 1,200 miles reported. Look up ODI 10046048 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10051453 · 2003-12-31 (December 31, 2003)

THIS VEHICLE STALLS WHEN IDLING AT A RED LIGHT OR AT STANDSTILL. THIS VEHICLE ALSO DOESN'T ALWAYS START AT FIRST TRY. THERE IS ALSO EITHER A BAD CLUSTER OR LOSE WIRES TO THE DASH CLUSTER.

Owner-reported narrative. 5,251 miles reported. Look up ODI 10051453 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10206174 · 2007-10-18 (October 18, 2007)

WHILE MY SON WAS DRIVING WEST ON ROUTE 64 IN THE LEFT HAND LANE NEAR ROCKY MOUNT, NC AT A SPEED OF 70 MPH, THE BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON FOLLOWED BY A LOUD NOISE AND THEN THE VEHICLE PULLED HARD TO THE RIGHT CAUSING MY SON TO RUN A MOTORCYCLIST OFF THE ROAD TO AVOID BEING HIT. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A SHOP AND THE DETERMINED THAT THE RIGHT FRONT BEARING ASSEMBLY HAD FAILED. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A FATAL ACCIDENT DUE TO THE SUDDEN LOSS OF CONTROL. *JB

Owner-reported narrative. 119,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10206174 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10218084 · 2008-02-14 (February 14, 2008)

MY WIFE AND I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORE SPORT 2003 NEW FROM THE DEALER; ON SEVERAL OCCASION WE HAD PROBLEMS WITH WHAT I THOUGHT WAS THE ABS BRAKE SYSTEM.THE VEHICLE WOULD CONTINUE TO GO FORWARD AFTER APPLYING BRAKES. THE FORD DEALERSHIP REPLACED BRAKE BOOSTER, MASTER CYLINDER AND IT STILL TODAY IT CONTINUE TO DO THE SAME THINGS SURGE FORWARD AFTER TWO VISIT TO THE DEALERSHIP WITH THIS PROBLEM. THERE RESPONSE WAS WE CAN'T FIND IT AND SENT US ON OUR WAY. NOW THE WARRANT IS GONE AND WE ARE STUCK WITH A VEHICLE THAT MAY OR MAYNOT STOP IN TRAFFIC WHI…

Owner-reported narrative. 65,062 miles reported. Look up ODI 10218084 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10018784 · 2003-05-16 (May 16, 2003)

I JUST BOUGHT A FORD EXPLORER SPORT 2 DOOR TO TOW MY BOAT. THE SPECS FOR TOWING PROVIDED BY FORD ARE 5100 LBS. MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT, 350 LBS. MAX TONGUE WEIGHT. MY BOAT & TRAILER IS 3200 LBS AND TONGUE WEIGHT 280 LBS., WELL WITHIN SPECS. MY FIRST TRIP TRAILERING 20 MILES TO THE LAKE THE VEHICLE THEN TRAILER SWERVED, SINCE THE WEIGHT PUSHES THE REAR DOWN & FRONT END UP SO THAT LITTLE WEIGHT REMAINS ON THE FRONT TO CONTROL STEERING. THE FORD ENGINEER CONSULTED SAID "IF HE BOUGHT THE EXPLORER TO TRAILER WHY DIDN'T HE BUY THE 4 DOOR" (IMPLYING I…

Owner-reported narrative. 550 miles reported. Look up ODI 10018784 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10057778 · 2004-02-09 (February 9, 2004)

CONSUMER COMPLAINED OF VIBRATION PROBLEM. . STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED WHEN MAKING TURNS OR WHEN VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION OR STATIONARY. TOOK VEHICLE BACK TO DEALERSHIP, WHO ROTATED THE TIRES. THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. 5,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10057778 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10496184 · 2013-02-02 (February 2, 2013)

AS I WAS DRIVING THE SUN VISOR DROPPED, AND STARTED TO DANGLE AND SWING TOWARDS MY FACE. IT STARTLED ME AND I SWERVED THE CAR A LITTLE, TRIED TO DODGE THE VISOR FROM HITTING ME IN THE FACE/HEAD, AND THEN PULLED INTO A PARKING AREA. I NOTICED THE SUN VISOR HINGE HAD CRACKED AND THE WIRING CAME LOOSE. I TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALER QUICK LANE AND THEY STATED IT WOULD COST ME BETWEEN $120-$250 DEPENDING ON THE COLOR AND IT WOULD NEED TO BE REWIRED DURING INSTALLATION. THIS COULD CAUSE SOMEONE TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT OR INJURY, AND THERE IS NO REASON TH…

Owner-reported narrative. 130,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10496184 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10134296 · 2005-08-26 (August 26, 2005)

2003 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER AWD 4DR VIN [XXX] UNDER WARRANTY - 33125 MILES WHEN IN REVERSE EXPERIENCE BANGS/JERKS - DEALER STATED IT WAS TRANSMISSION SHIFT SOLENOID PACK AND REPLACED 6/05 - CONTINUED TO BANG/JERK INTO REVERSE UNTIL APPROX 1 MONTH LATER, VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE WHETHER IN DRIVE OR REVERSE, ALONG WITH LOUD WHINING NOISES - DEALER COULD NOT LOOK AT VEHICLE FOR ONE WEEK AT WHICH TIME FLAT BEDDED AT OWNERS COST AS NOW AT 37,000 MILES (OUT OF WARRANTY OF COURSE) FORD INSPECTED TRANSMISSION AND HAS DENIED REPAIR/REPLACEMENT UNDER WA…

Owner-reported narrative. 33,125 miles reported. Look up ODI 10134296 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11289611 · 2019-12-17 (December 17, 2019)

THE TRANSMISSION IS SHOT I CANT PUT IT IN GEAR AND ME AND MY HUSBAND WERE ALMOST KILLED BUT WERE ABLE TO PUT IT IN 2ND GEAR TO ROLL IT TO THE SHOP. THE 4WHEEL DRIVE GOT STUCK IN 4 WHEEL LOW AND WOULD NOT SHIFT AT ALL. WHEN WE TURNED THE CAR ON IT WOULD REV UP TO 5 BUT ONLY GO 2 MILES AN HOUR.

Owner-reported narrative. 133,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11289611 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

65 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

92.3%Usable mileage60 / 65 records
96.9%Valid incident date63 / 65 records
100.0%Valid filing date65 / 65 records
96.9%Ordered incident and filing dates63 / 65 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component1993199719981999200020012002200320042005
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

25.4%
ODI 10050036

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DOESN'T SHIFT PROPERLY AND ENGAGE FROM DRIVE TO NEUTRAL. DEALER HAS INSPECTED BUT WASN'T ABLE TO DUPLICATE OR CORRECT THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *PH

Look up ODI 10050036 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

44.3%
ODI 10067674 · 71,900 mi

POOR PERFORMANCE/DURABILITY OF THE VEHICLE. INCLUDES 5 RECALLS (TO DATE) AND THE NEED TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION IN THE VEHICLE AFTER ONLY 72,000 MILES OF OPERATION. OTHER PARTS NOT PROPERLY FUNCTIONING AT THIS TIME ARE THE RADIO, CRUISE CONTROL, AND BRAKE LIGHTS.*AK

Look up ODI 10067674 at NHTSA ↗

1115.5%
ODI 10005295 · 18,000 mi

HAVE HAD NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH MY EXPLORER. HAVE HAD 2 TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY REPLACED, AIR INTAKE CONTROL VALVE REPLACED, FAULTY WITING FOR THE LAFT TAIL LIGHT REPLACE, IGNITION SWITCH REPLACED, AIR BAG CONTACTS REPLACED, TURN SIGNAL ARM AND COTROLS REPLACED.

Look up ODI 10005295 at NHTSA ↗

158.0%
ODI 10023756

I HAVE A 2000 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. MY 5 SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SLIPS WHILE SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR. MY VEHICLE HAS ONLY 55,000 MILES ON IT AND FROM THE NEW GROUPS I'VE BEEN FOLLOWING, I'M NOT ALONE. I UNDERSTAND THAT FORD HAS REDESIGNED THE VALVE BODY AND IS REFUSING TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE UNITS FREE OF CHARGE. *NLM

Look up ODI 10023756 at NHTSA ↗

1813.5%
ODI 10182976 · 55,330 mi

AT 55,350 MILES MY 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT'S TRANSMISSION WOULD FLARE WHEN SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, I WAS TOLD THAT I HAD A SOLENOID MALFUNCTION IN MY TRANSMISSION; THEREFORE, AFFECTING OTHER COMPONENTS OF THE TRANSMISSION. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT MY TRANSMISSION WOULD NEED TO BE REBUILT. MILES WISE, I STILL HAD A LITTLE UNDER 5,000 MILES UNTIL THE WARRANTY EXPIRED, YEARS WISE, I WAS AT 5 YEARS 74 DAYS. NEEDLESS TO SAY, THIS PROBLEM COST ME $2168.38. I DON'T THINK VEHICLE AT 55K MILES SHOU…

Look up ODI 10182976 at NHTSA ↗

23.1%
ODI 10134296 · 33,125 mi

2003 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER AWD 4DR VIN [XXX] UNDER WARRANTY - 33125 MILES WHEN IN REVERSE EXPERIENCE BANGS/JERKS - DEALER STATED IT WAS TRANSMISSION SHIFT SOLENOID PACK AND REPLACED 6/05 - CONTINUED TO BANG/JERK INTO REVERSE UNTIL APPROX 1 MONTH LATER, VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE WHETHER IN DRIVE OR REVERSE, ALONG WITH LOUD WHINING NOISES - DEALER COULD NOT LOOK AT VEHICLE FOR ONE WEEK AT WHICH TIME FLAT BEDDED AT OWNERS COST AS NOW AT 37,000 MILES (OUT OF WARRANTY OF COURSE) FORD INSPECTED TRANSMISSION AND HAS DENIED REPAIR/REPLACEMENT UNDER WA…

Look up ODI 10134296 at NHTSA ↗

316.7%
ODI 10169810 · 15,000 mi

WE HAVE A 2004 FORD EXPLORER V8 SPORT. WE HAVE HAD TWO MAJOR TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS AND NOW WE HAVE A SHAKING IN THE FRONT END AFTER THE LATEST REPAIR TO THE TRANSMISSION. *JB

Look up ODI 10169810 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Structure:Body
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

105.3%
ODI 10048639 · 53,200 mi

WHILE DRIVING THE CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD POPPING NOISE. THE NOISE WAS CAUSED BY THE #3 BODY REINFORCEMENT. THE REINFORCEMENT BROKE LOOSE ON THE RIGHT REAR SIDE OF THE CAB. THERE'S A TSB 630329 ON THIS ISSUE. *NLM

Look up ODI 10048639 at NHTSA ↗

107.5%
ODI 10424133 · 90,500 mi

I JUST PURCHASED A USED 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT ON 08/06/2011 SO THAT I HAD A VEHICLE THAT I COULD TAKE THE KIDS ON CAMPING TRIPS. ON 09/04/2011 ON OUR WAY TO DAYTONA BEACH I NOTICED THE CAR WAS PUSHING AND SWERVING IN BOTH DIRECTIONS, I HAD JUST PUT BRAND NEW TIRES ON IT AND REPLACED BOTH THE UPPER CONTROL ARMS AND ALL 4 BALL JOINTS AND HAD AN ALIGNMENT DONE, I THOUGHT THAT IT'S A BIGGER VEHICLE THAN WHAT I'M USED TO AND HAD BEEN A SLIGHTLY WINDY. ON THE WAY HOME ON MONDAY 09/05/2011 IT WAS EVEN WORSE, I COULD FEEL THE BODY ROLLING THE CAR PU…

Look up ODI 10424133 at NHTSA ↗

1320.0%
ODI 10328674 · 78,796 mi

OPENED THE REAR WINDOW (HATCH) AND THE RIGHT SIDE FLEW UP - THE HINGE HAD DISENGAGED FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. LOCATED ON NHTSA.GOV #04V442000 WHICH COVERS THE SAME PROBLEM - WAS TOLD BY DEALER MY VEHICLE DID NOT FALL UNDER THIS RECALL (04S20) AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10328674 at NHTSA ↗

633.3%
ODI 10250371 · 35,133 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. SHE STATED THAT THE TAILGATE ABOVE THE GLASS CRACKED. THE MANUFACTURER CONFIRMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR HER VIN. THE VEHICLE WILL NOT BE REPAIRED SINCE THE CONTACT DOESN'T HAVE A WARRANTY. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 35,133.

Look up ODI 10250371 at NHTSA ↗

240.0%
ODI 10280039 · 52,000 mi

I HAVE A 2005 FORD EXPLORER. THERE IS A BONDING ISSUE ON THE ROOF. THE PAINT IS SEPARATING AND LEAVING THE PRIMER ALONE ON THE VEHICLE. FORD HAS IGNORED MY REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE. I PURCHASED THE TRUCK 14 MONTHS AGO AS A CERTIFIED PREOWNED AND BROUGHT THIS TO THEIR ATTENTION 4 MONTHS INTO MY OWNERSHIP. AFTER THE CORPORATE OFFICE IGNORED MY ISSUE, I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WHO SAID "IT ISN'T OUR PROBLEM." *TR

Look up ODI 10280039 at NHTSA ↗

Electrical System
120.0%
ODI 10188749 · 125,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 FORD EXPLORER. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DRIVEN IN FOUR DAYS. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DIAGNOSED THE CAUSE AS ELECTRICAL. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE 125,000. PICTURES AND FIRE REPORT WERE AVAILABLE. *AK

Look up ODI 10188749 at NHTSA ↗

25.4%
ODI 10164469 · 100,000 mi

I OWNED A 1997 FORD EXPLORER. ON JULY 29, 2005 MY TRUCK WAS IN MY YARD AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. I WAS NOT HOME AT THE TIME. MY INSURANCE PAID A PORTION OF THE LOAN I STILL HAD ON THE VEHICLE. FORD MOTOR HAS NOT RECALLED 1997 EXPLORERS BUT HAVE 1998. THE FIRE REPORT ISSUED CLAIMS IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. MY VEHICLE WAS A TOTAL LOSS. *JB

Look up ODI 10164469 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 10074664

THE LIGHTS WENT OUT ON THE RADIO DISPLAY FOR MY EXPLORER. THE UNIT STILL PLAYED HOWEVER YOU COULDN'T SEE WHAT TRACK, THE VOLUME, OR WHAT RADIO STATION IT WAS CURRENTLY ON. I THOUGHT THIS WOULD BE A SIMPLE FUSE FIX BUT WAS TOLD THAT THE WHOLE RADIO HAD TO BE REPLACED FOR A COST OF $600. LUCKY ME I HAVE THE PREMIUM STEREO SO IT COSTS MORE. I HAVE SPOKEN WITH PEOPLE WHO ALL HAVE THE 98 EXPLORER SPORT AND THIS ISSUE WAS THE SAME FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON. *AK

Look up ODI 10074664 at NHTSA ↗

1010.8%
ODI 10023883

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE STREET AND THE ENGINE JUST DIED, I HAVE A STICK SO I KEPT IT IN SECOND THEN IT STARTED AND I KEPT GOING THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED SINCE I BOUGHT THE TRUCK NEW. MY OTHER PROBLEM IS SOMETIMES THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL FLICK BACK AND FORTH ONCE OR TWICE AND STOP AND THEY ARE OFF THIS HAS HAPPENED ABOUT TEN TIME SINCE I BOUGHT THE TRUCK ,THE NEXT THING IS DURING HOT WEATHER WHEN YOU START THE TRUCK THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT STAYS ON FOR THREE OR FOUR MINUTES AFTER YOU START TO DRIVE EVEN THOUGH THE DOORS ARE CLOSED …

Look up ODI 10023883 at NHTSA ↗

912.7%
ODI 10003148

TIMING TENSIONER WAS RECALLED. TENSIONER DAMAGED MY TIMING CHAIN, WHICH DAMAGED MY ENGINE. TURN SIGNAL SWITCH NEVER WORKED PROPERLY AFTER 31,000 MI, DASH LIGHTS AND GUAGES FAILED TO WORK CONSISTENTLY OR AT ALL BEGINNING 25,000 MI, REAR WINDOW WIPER NEVER WIPED PROPERLY, HEATER SWITCH BEGAN FAILING AT 36,000 MI. LAST DELIMMA WAS CATALYIC CONVERTER GOING OUT AT 60,000 MI. ALSO, AFTER REPLACEMENT OF TENSIONER, OIL CHANGE HAD BEEN DONE AT SAME TIME. 10 MILES AFTER LEAVING DEALERSHIP, GASKET FELL OFF AND LOST ALL OIL PRESSURE WHILE ENGINE WAS O…

Look up ODI 10003148 at NHTSA ↗

52.7%
ODI 10116296 · 30,482 mi

MY FORD EXPORER SPORT WITH APPROXIMATELY 30,000 MILES ON IT WAS PARKED OUTSIDE OF MY APARTMENT WHEN IT CAUGHT ON FIRE BY ITSELF AROUND 4:00 A.M. FIRE MARSHALL STATED THAT FIRE STARTED ON THE ENGINE/ BATTERY AREA. I HAVE HIS WRITTEN REPORT. SUV WAS TOTALLED BY INSURANCE COMPANY. I CONTACTED FORD IN WRITING, BUT THEY DID NOT FEEL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEFFECTIVE VEHICLE. THEY DID NOT REPLACE THE VEHICLE NOR REIMBURSED ME FOR ANY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES. *AK

Look up ODI 10116296 at NHTSA ↗

64.5%
ODI 10113274

FORD EXPLORER 2002 CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED. *BF *JB

Look up ODI 10113274 at NHTSA ↗

23.1%
ODI 10496190 · 130,000 mi

THE FORD EXPLORER SPORT HAS SERIOUS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. *REAR BRAKE LIGHT WOULD NOT TURN OFF AND CAUSED MY BATTERY TO DRAIN. TOOK IT TO THE SHOP AND THEY STATED THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH FORD EXPLORERS, THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH THAT THE CAR HAS IS DEFECTIVE. THE MECHANIC ACTUALLY STATED THAT THEY STOPPED MAKING THAT KIND OF BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH, SO THEY HAD TO ORDER A NEW KIND OF BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. BECAUSE THE MECHANIC'S STATEMENT, THIS INFORMED ME THAT FORD IS AWARE OF THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH THAT CAME WITH THE CAR IS DEFECTIVE. *DOOR AJ…

Look up ODI 10496190 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Seats:Front Assembly:Recliner
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

12.7%
ODI 10033107

BROKEN FRONT SEAT LATCH ON 1997 EXPLORER SPORT FROD MOTOR CO ACKNOWLEDEGES PART DEFECT (REFER TECHINACAL SERVICE BULLETIN 98-25-15) BUT DOES NOT FEEL THAT THEY SHOULD REPLACE PART BECUSE A RECALL WAS NOT ORDERED.*AK I HAVE SEEN ARTICLES ON THE WEB ABOUT THIS BEING A WARRANTY REPAIR BUT FORD WILL NOT HONOR ON VEHICLE

Look up ODI 10033107 at NHTSA ↗

119.1%
ODI 10023818 · 68,000 mi

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BACK COLLAPSED AND BROKE WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH. THEREFORE THE SEAT BACK ADJUSTMENT HANDLE NO LONGER WORKS. ALSO, THE FRAME ATTACHED TO THE FLOOR IS CRACKED NOW. *AK

Look up ODI 10023818 at NHTSA ↗

1111.8%
ODI 10023192

WHEN I WAS DRIVING ALONG, MY SEAT RECLINED. I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO MAKE IT RECLINE TO THE UPRIGHT POSITION FOR SAFE DRIVING. *NLM

Look up ODI 10023192 at NHTSA ↗

45.6%
ODI 10018402

THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT ON MY 2000 FORD EXPLORER BROKE AND WOULD NOT STAY IN THE UPRIGHT POSITION, MAKING THE VEHICLE VERY UNCOMFORTABLE AND UNSAFE TO DRIVE. *NLM

Look up ODI 10018402 at NHTSA ↗

63.2%
ODI 10067415 · 80,000 mi

RECALL 03V28100 REGARDING HIGH BACK SEAT. CONSUMER WAS REACHING BACK TRYING TO PICK UP SOMETHING BEHIND THE SEAT AND THE SEAT COLLAPSED BACKWARDS ONTO THE REAR SEAT. CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK

Look up ODI 10067415 at NHTSA ↗

43.0%
ODI 10040460

CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL# 03V281000 NOTICE CONCERNING HIGH BACK SEATS. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHO KEPT THE VEHICLE ALL DAY. UPON RETURNING TO DEALER TO PICK UP VEHICLE CONSUMER REALIZED THAT DEALER DID NO REPAIRS BECAUSE THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE.*AK

Look up ODI 10040460 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Vehicle Speed Control
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

12.7%
ODI 10058349 · 69,650 mi

ON FEBRUARY 16, 2004 AT APPROXIMATELY 2:30 PM I WAS PULLING MY WIFE'S 1997 FORD EXPLORER SPORT INTO A DIAGONAL PARKING STALL. I HAD ALMOST COME TO A COMPLETE STOP WHEN THE ENGINE BEGAN TO ROAR AND THE CAR BEGAN TO ACCELERATE AGAINST MY BRAKING. I PRESSED AS HARD AS I COULD ON THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT THE CAR CONTINUED TO MOVE FORWARD UNTIL IT STRUCK A CAR OPPOSITE MY PARKING STALL. I PUSHED THE GEAR SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL AND TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. I CHECKED MY RIGHT FOOT POSITION AND CONFIRMED THAT I WAS ONLY PRESSING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. WHEN I RELEASE…

Look up ODI 10058349 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 10039319 · 62,000 mi

RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FROM FORD MOTOR CORP AND TELEPHONED THEM ABOUT ANOTHER MATTER. NAMELY WHEN BREAKING MY 1998 FORD SPORT EXPLORER, IT SUDDENLY STARTED TO ACCELERATE. IMMEDIATELY SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND CONTINUED TO BREAK THE CAR. THE MOTOR RACED,BUT THE VEHICLE STOPPED. BECAUSE I APPLIED THE BRAKE WITH CONSIDERABLE FORCE. FORD MOTOR PERSONNEL TOLD ME TO BRING THIS MATTER TO THE ATTENTION OF MY LOCAL FORD DEALER. COMPLIED, BUT ADVISED IF THE PROBLEM DOES NOT APPEAR DURING A ROAD TEST NOTHING CAN BE DONE. THIS IS A COP OUT . WHO KNOWS WH…

Look up ODI 10039319 at NHTSA ↗

44.3%
ODI 10204239 · 126,000 mi

I HAVE A 1999 FORD EXPLORE. THE PROBLEM THAT I HAD WAS WHEN I WAS DRIVING UP A HILL GOING BELOW THE SPEED LIMIT WHILE NOT USING THE SPEED CONTROL MY FORD EXPLORE JUST STARTED TO ACCELERATE AT HIGH SPEEDS BY IT'S SELF. I COULD NOT SLOW IT DOWN. I THOUGHT THAT IT COULD HAVE BEEN THE SPEED CONTROL BUT NO LIGHT WAS ON AND I HIT THE OFF BUTTON SEVERAL TIMES. FINALLY I HAD TO PLACE IT IN NEUTRAL AND THE ENGINE WAS STILL ON ACCELERATION. I CALLED FORD AND THEY DID NOT HELP ME. THEN I HAD IT SENT TO A DEALERSHIP AND HAD THEM DOCUMENT WHAT WAS GOING ON …

Look up ODI 10204239 at NHTSA ↗

45.6%
ODI 10212845

RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE ON 2000 FORD EXPLORER FOR DEFECTIVE SPEED CONTROL UNIT THAT CAN CAUSE FIRES IN AUG.'07 AND SEP'07. CALLED LOCAL DEALER OCT.07, NO PART AVAIL WAS TOLD AVAIL IN DEC.'07 WHEN TO DEALER IN DEC.'07 IN PERSON WAS NOW TOLD PART NOT AVAIL. UNTIL "MAYBE" MARCH 2008. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE! *TR

Look up ODI 10212845 at NHTSA ↗

126.4%
ODI 10121093 · 80,000 mi

DT: OWNS 2001 FORD EXPLORER, BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER ARE PREGNANT. HAD JUST ENTERED INTERSTATE AND WAS DRIVING ABOUT 70 MPH AND TRIED TO SLOW DOWN TO ABOUT 65MPH. TRIED TO TAP BRAKE BUT HEARD ENGINE REV UP AND IT IMMEDIATELY SPED BACK UP. TAPPED BRAKE AGAIN AND KNEW SOMETHING WAS WRONG. ENGAGED HAZARD LIGHTS AND TRIED TO PULL OFF ROAD. DOWN SHIFTED TO 2ND GEAR,THEN TO 1ST, AND SLOWED TO ABOUT 50 MPH. TRIED TO ENGAGE EMERGENCY BRAKE WITH NO LUCK. WAS USING BOTH BRAKES WHILE TRAVELING IN THE GRASS UPHILL. WHEN IT SLOWED TO ABOUT 15-20 …

Look up ODI 10121093 at NHTSA ↗

53.8%
ODI 10200791

FORD RECALL 05S28-SIRS, YOUR WEBSITE RECALL NOTICE STATES THAT THE AFFECTED VEHICLES SHOULD BE RETURNED IMMEDIATELY TO THE DEALER FOR DISCONNECTION OF THE PROBLEM SPEED CONTROL SWITCH WHILE AWAITING AVAILABILITY OF REPLACEMENT WIRING PARTS, HOWEVER, THE RECALL LETTER I RECEIVED THIS WEEK DOES NOT MENTION THIS, NOR DID THE DEALER WHEN I CALLED HIM. HAS THIS INTERIM REPAIR BEEN CANCELED? THANK YOU, WRL. *TR

Look up ODI 10200791 at NHTSA ↗

23.1%
ODI 10062074 · 5,251 mi

THIS VEHICLE STALLS OUT WHEN STOPPING. WHEN TRYING TO GET GOING AGAIN IT DOESN'T THROTTLE PROPERLY. *AK

Look up ODI 10062074 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Tires
120.0%
ODI 10006889

THE TIRES FAILED.*JB

Look up ODI 10006889 at NHTSA ↗

25.4%
ODI 10168868 · 180,000 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRE THREAD SEPARATED WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A TIRE DEALER WHERE THE TIRE WAS REPLACED. A RECALL LETTER #[XXX] WAS RECEIVED REGARDING THE TIRES. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED FOR REIMBURSEMENT AND DETERMINED THE TIRE WAS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR REIMBURSEMENT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Look up ODI 10168868 at NHTSA ↗

75.8%
ODI 10129499

DT: THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. HAD FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES ON VEHICLE. WENT FOR INSPECTION AND FAILED BECAUSE THE TIRES WERE RECALLED. HE CONTACTED FORD AS WELL AS FIRESTONE, AND THEY TOLD HIM THE RECALL WAS OVER AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. THE TIRE SIZE WAS P235/70R16. THE TIRES ON THE VEHICLE SPLIT BETWEEN THE THREADS, AND SIDEWALLS. IT WAS LIKE THEY WERE SEPARATING ON ALL FIVE OF THE TIRES, INCLUDING THE SPARE TIRE. *AK *NM

Look up ODI 10129499 at NHTSA ↗

33.2%
ODI 10020489 · 40,000 mi

THE VEHICLES TIRES SEPARATED. *NLM

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57.0%
ODI 10105391

WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE CONSUMER WAS FORCED OFF THE ROAD. THE DRIVER REGAINED CONTROL WHILE ON THE GRASS SIDING UNTIL THE LEFT FRONT TIRE DETACHED FROM THE TRUCK. THIS CAUSED THE TRUCK TO ROLL OVER 4 TIMES. PLEASE IDENTIFY IF AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND IF SEAT BELTS PERFORMED AS DESIGNED. *JB THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE MOVED FROM THE RIM SUDDENLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT (TIRE INFORMATION NOT GIVEN). *BF *NM

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73.7%
ODI 10007705

I HAVE JUST PURCHASED A 2001 FORD EXPLORER SPORT THAT WAS SITTING FOR A > YEAR AS PART OF AN ESTATE. > > > > > > THIS CAR HAS FIRESTON WILDERNESS TIRES P255 70R16 1095 M+S. WHICH HAVE BEEN RECALLED. FORD & FIRESTONE REFUSE TO REPLACE THESE TIRES BECAUSE THE TIME ALLOTTED EXPIRED

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43.0%
ODI 10001374 · 19,116 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 60/65 MPH THE BACK RIGHT TIRE BLOW OUT. THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE TIRE WITH THE SAME MAKE/MODEL TIRE AND THAT TIRE IS WEARING ON THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE. THE DEARLERSHIP INDICATED THAT THE TIRE LOOKED LIKE IT HAD LOST AIR PRESSURE, BUT THERE WERE NO SIGNS OF PUNCTURE. PLEASE PROVIDE DETAILS. TS

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23.1%
ODI 10232941 · 92,000 mi

TIRE VALVE PROBLEM - 3 BLOWN TIRES IN 60 DAYS ORIGINAL TIRES PURCHASED 1/31/2007 - CAR MILEAGE 75,857 AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE 1ST INCIDENT - APRIL 12, 2008 - CAR MILEAGE 91,400 (RIGHT FRONT TIRE) BLOWN TIRE ON INTERSTATE 81 IN VIRGINIA (TIRE REPLACED W/NEW VALVE) NO PROBLEM DETERMINATION DONE RELATIVE TO THE VALVE 2ND INCIDENT - APRIL 26, 2008 - CAR MILEAGE 92,300 (LEFT FRONT TIRE) BLOWN TIRE ON INTERSTATE 85 IN NORTH CAROLINA (TIRE REPLACED W/NEW VALVE) NO PROBLEM DETERMINATION DONE RELATIVE TO THE VALVE 3RD INCIDENT - JUNE 18, 200…

Look up ODI 10232941 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Latches/Locks/Linkages:Doors:Latch
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

2319.0%
ODI 10032465 · 10,000 mi

THE POWER DOOR LOCKS FAILED. *JB

Look up ODI 10032465 at NHTSA ↗

33.2%
ODI 10040114

PROBLEMS WITH WINDSHIELD WIPERS, BRAKE LIGHTS, SEAT HANDLES, INTERIOR LIGHTS AND DOOR LOCKS.*MR REAR WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT WORK. BOTH SEAT HANDLES BROKE OFF. INTERIOR LIGHTS REMAIN ON, BRAKE LIGHTS ARE REPLACED TWICE A WEEK. DOOR DOES NOT UNLOCK PROPERLY.*TS

Look up ODI 10040114 at NHTSA ↗

11.4%
ODI 10063588 · 51,109 mi

DOOR LATCH/LOCKING ASSEMBLY STOPPED FUNCTIONING. CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE OR INSIDE. DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE ENTIRE LOCKING ASSEMBLY, AND INDICATED THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE TRUCKS. *AK *NM

Look up ODI 10063588 at NHTSA ↗

10.5%
ODI 10114573 · 39,000 mi

AT JUST UNDER 40,000 MILES,THE DRIVER'S DOOR LATCH BEGAN TO FAIL, CAUSING THE DOOR TO EITHER NOT CLOSE COMPLETELY WITHOUT VIGOROUS SLAMMING, OR FAILED TO OPEN FROM THE INSIDE. DEALER HAS REPLACED THE LATCH. *AK

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21.5%
ODI 10046421 · 6,000 mi

THE REAR DOORS WILL NOT OPEN FROM THE INSIDE. ALSO, THE REAR WINDOWS WILL NOT GO UP OR DOWN. DEALER MADE REPAIRS THAT TEMPORARILY FIXED THE WINDOWS. THE PROBLEM RETURNED ABOUT TWO MONTHS AFTER THE REPAIRS WERE DONE. *AK

Look up ODI 10046421 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Seats
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

38.1%
ODI 10270139 · 40,000 mi

BOTH SEAT TILT LEVERS BEND AND THEN BREAK OFF AFTER ATTEMPTING TO STRAIGHTEN THEM ONCE TOO MANY TIMES. NEW DESIGN STRENGTHENS THE BRACKETS. IF THE BRACKETS BREAK OFF AND THERE IS A SMALL CHILD IN THE BACK, ADULTS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO REMOVE SMALL CHILDREN QUICKLY DURING AN EMERGENCY SINCE THEY CAN'T TILT THE SEATS FORWARD OUT OF THE WAY. *TR

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32.5%
ODI 10232404 · 157,000 mi

FORD ISSUED A RECALL FOR A BOLT REPLACEMENT IN THE SEAT. SAFETY RECALL 03S04 REFERS. BEACH FORD DEALERSHIP HAS DECLINED TO CONDUCT THE REPAIR DUE TO TIME OF THE RECALL (5 YEARS). THE DEALERSHIP STATED THAT THE BOLT HAD ALREADY SHEARED AND SINCE THE RECALL WAS SO OLD THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10232404 at NHTSA ↗

44.3%
ODI 10281718 · 70,000 mi

THIS BOLT WAS REPLACED ON MY VEHICLE IN JAN 2004 AS PART OF THE RECALL. THE NEW BOLT THAT WAS INSTALLED FRACTURED CREATING A VERY SERIOUS CRASH RISK. FORD SAYS THEY WILL ONLY REPLACE ONCE. AUTO RECALL DATE: AUG 05, 2003 VEHICLE COMPONENT: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER ESTIMATED VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1552880 MODEL AFFECTED 1999 FORD EXPLORER 1999 FORD EXPLORER DEFECT SUMMARY: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HIGH BACK SEATS, THE UPPER BOLT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE HIGH BACK SEAT, THAT ATTACHES THE SEAT RECLINER MECHANI…

Look up ODI 10281718 at NHTSA ↗

57.0%
ODI 10004939 · 46,000 mi

UPON ENTERING MY VEHICLE, SITTING IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT, AND RESTINNG MY BACK AGAINST THE SEAT WHILE IN AN UPRIGHT POSITION, THE BACK OF THE SEAT COLLAPSED.THIS ALL OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE VEHICLE BEING STARTED AND ENGAGED IN ANY GEAR, WHICH IS PROBABLY THE ONLY REASON THE INCIDENT DID NOT RESULT IN A SERIOUS OR FATAL ACCIDENT. DUE TO THE COLLAPSE OF THE SEAT, I DID SUSTAIN A BACK INJURY/STRAIN.

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94.8%
ODI 10109989

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY MY SEAT COLLAPSE UNDER NEAT CAUSING MY BODY TO SLOUCH. I STARTED TO SWERVE THE CAR BUT HAD UNDER CONTROL AND LUCKILY CAUSED NO ACCIDENT. I TOOK IT TO A DEALERSHIP THE NEXT DAY , AND THEY TOLD ME THAT I WOULD HAVE TO PURCHASE A BRAND NEW SEAT FRAME AND CUSHION SINCE THE SEAT FRAME BROKE, THEY EVEN SAID THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD THIS HAPPENED OR SEEN IT HAPPEN. THEY TOLD ME SINCE IT DOES NOT COVER UNDER WARRANTY OR EXTENDED WARRANTY, WHICH I HAD PURCHASED WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR, THAT I WOULD HAVE PAY FOR IT AND THAT IT W…

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32.3%
ODI 10229735 · 85,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE LEFT SIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT DETACHED FROM THE BASE, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO FALL BACK AGAINST THE REAR SEATS. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, HE NOTICED THAT THE SEAT WOULD ONLY RECLINE IN ONE VERTICAL POSITION. THERE WAS NO CRASH INVOLVED AND THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 85,000.

Look up ODI 10229735 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

120.0%
ODI 10283027 · 70,000 mi

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

Look up ODI 10283027 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Structure:Body102,000–134,750 mi115,000 mi12
ODI 10328674 · 78,796 mi

OPENED THE REAR WINDOW (HATCH) AND THE RIGHT SIDE FLEW UP - THE HINGE HAD DISENGAGED FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. LOCATED ON NHTSA.GOV #04V442000 WHICH COVERS THE SAME PROBLEM - WAS TOLD BY DEALER MY VEHICLE DID NOT FALL UNDER THIS RECALL (04S20) AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10328674 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10496185 · 110,000 mi

2/14/2007 I NOTICED THERE IS A FRACTURE/CRACK BETWEEN THE TAILGATE DOOR OPENER AND THE WINDOW. THE FRACTURE/CRACK BECOMES MORE/LESS WIDER DEPENDING ON HOW HOT OR COLD IT IS OUTSIDE. I WENT TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED IT WOULD CAUSE ME BETWEEN $400-$800 TO GET IT FIX AND THE WHOLE AREA WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED. THEY STATED THAT IT SHOULD NOT CAUSE MUCH PROBLEM UNLESS SOMEONE HITS THE BACK OF MY CAR OR I CLOSE THE TAILGATE NOT SOFT ENOUGH, WHICH COULD DAMAGE THE WINDOW. SINCE THEN, I HAVE NOTICED THAT ALL EXPLORERS THAT I SEE HAVE THE SAME FRAC…

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ODI 10504778 · 120,000 mi

REAR LIFT GATE PANEL CRACKED WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. CONCERNS WITH UNSTABLE REAR GLASS, ABILITY OF HATCH TO REMAIN CLOSED AND OPERATION OF REAR WIPER. GLASS INSTABILITY A CONCERN WHILE DRIVING AND WHEN USING LIFTGATE. PRIOR INJURIES HAVE BEEN REPORTED. *TR

Look up ODI 10504778 at NHTSA ↗

Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments77,449–114,300 mi87,998 mi6
ODI 10266375 · 65,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, AN EXCESSIVELY LOUD RATTLE AND WIND NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE INTERIOR REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND OBSERVED THAT THE LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED AND THE BOLTS LOOSENED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO THE LIFTGATE HINGE WHICH WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER; 04V442000 (STRUCTURE:BODYHATCHBACK/LIFTGATE;HI…

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ODI 10266836 · 97,200 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE REAR LIFTGATE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE GLASS WAS LOOSE AND THE HINGE WAS FAILING. HE WAS ABLE TO SAFELY CATCH THE GLASS BEFORE IT STRUCK THE GROUND OR HIMSELF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THERE WAS NO CURRENT RECALL REGARDING THE FAILURE AND THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COST. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT NO COMPENSATION WOULD BE PROVIDED BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION…

Look up ODI 10266836 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10323039 · 120,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE HINGE ON THE REAR LIFTGATE WAS DETACHED. THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V442000 (STRUCTURE: BODY: HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE: HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS). AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED HER THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL DEFECT. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED WHEN THE COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 120,000.

Look up ODI 10323039 at NHTSA ↗

Visibility/Wiper101,750–132,250 mi120,000 mi6
ODI 10496184 · 130,000 mi

AS I WAS DRIVING THE SUN VISOR DROPPED, AND STARTED TO DANGLE AND SWING TOWARDS MY FACE. IT STARTLED ME AND I SWERVED THE CAR A LITTLE, TRIED TO DODGE THE VISOR FROM HITTING ME IN THE FACE/HEAD, AND THEN PULLED INTO A PARKING AREA. I NOTICED THE SUN VISOR HINGE HAD CRACKED AND THE WIRING CAME LOOSE. I TOOK IT TO THE FORD DEALER QUICK LANE AND THEY STATED IT WOULD COST ME BETWEEN $120-$250 DEPENDING ON THE COLOR AND IT WOULD NEED TO BE REWIRED DURING INSTALLATION. THIS COULD CAUSE SOMEONE TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT OR INJURY, AND THERE IS NO REASON TH…

Look up ODI 10496184 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

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ODI 10547365 · 133,000 mi

WINDOW FEEL AND SHATTERED INTO A MILLION PIECES. AFTER CONTACTING MY INSURANCE TO HAVE THE GLASS REPLACED I FOUND OUT THE REASON FOR THE INCIDENT WAS DUE TO A FAULTY HINGE. I WAS TOLD BY THE GLASS COMPANY THAT THE HINGE FAILED DUE TO ELECTROLYSIS (TWO DIFFERENT METALS REACTING WITH EACH OTHER). I FEEL THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE THAT HAPPENED WITH FORD RECALL MANUFACTURER CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04S20, HOWEVER MY VIN DOES NOT PULL UP THIS ISSUE CODE AND THEREFORE I AM NOT RECEIVING ASSISTANCE FROM FORD WITH THIS MANNER. AFTER DOING RESEARCH ONLINE I HAVE F…

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StructureToo few reports for a range99,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10018784 · 550 mi

I JUST BOUGHT A FORD EXPLORER SPORT 2 DOOR TO TOW MY BOAT. THE SPECS FOR TOWING PROVIDED BY FORD ARE 5100 LBS. MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT, 350 LBS. MAX TONGUE WEIGHT. MY BOAT & TRAILER IS 3200 LBS AND TONGUE WEIGHT 280 LBS., WELL WITHIN SPECS. MY FIRST TRIP TRAILERING 20 MILES TO THE LAKE THE VEHICLE THEN TRAILER SWERVED, SINCE THE WEIGHT PUSHES THE REAR DOWN & FRONT END UP SO THAT LITTLE WEIGHT REMAINS ON THE FRONT TO CONTROL STEERING. THE FORD ENGINEER CONSULTED SAID "IF HE BOUGHT THE EXPLORER TO TRAILER WHY DIDN'T HE BUY THE 4 DOOR" (IMPLYING I…

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ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10886191 · 159,149 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, A NOISE EMERGED FROM THE REAR HATCH WINDOW. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT THE PIECE THAT HELD THE WINDOW IN PLACE WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE SAME FAILURE IN MARCH OF 2015. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 159,149.

Look up ODI 10886191 at NHTSA ↗

Unknown Or OtherToo few reports for a range119,500 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 10532641 · 106,000 mi

SEVERE CLANKING/BANGING NOISE IN PASSENGER REAR. REPLACED SHOCKS. NOISE WORSENED. RESEARCHED AND FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING BODY MOUNTS WITH FORD EXPLORER SPORT VEHICLES. UPON INVESTIGATION - REACHING UP UNDER VEHICLE FOUND NO "BODY INSULATOR LEFT ON PASSENGER SIDE REAR AND ON DRIVER REAR THE INSULATOR CRUMBLED LIKE DIRT AND FINE POWDER. THE BODY MOUNTS APPEARED TO BE MANUFACTURED OF A FOAM LIKE MATERIAL - SUBSTANDARD AT BEST! REPLACEMENT PARTS MUST BE PURCHASED THROUGH FORD SINCE NO OTHER AFTERMARKET PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. PARTS ONLY (T…

Look up ODI 10532641 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10934774 · 84,500 mi

REAR LIFTGATE WINDOW ON MY 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT EXPLODED INTO A MILLION PIECES. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY AND I WENT TO OPEN THE DOOR AND IT JUST EXPLODED.

Look up ODI 10934774 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11289611 · 133,000 mi

THE TRANSMISSION IS SHOT I CANT PUT IT IN GEAR AND ME AND MY HUSBAND WERE ALMOST KILLED BUT WERE ABLE TO PUT IT IN 2ND GEAR TO ROLL IT TO THE SHOP. THE 4WHEEL DRIVE GOT STUCK IN 4 WHEEL LOW AND WOULD NOT SHIFT AT ALL. WHEN WE TURNED THE CAR ON IT WOULD REV UP TO 5 BUT ONLY GO 2 MILES AN HOUR.

Look up ODI 11289611 at NHTSA ↗

VisibilityToo few reports for a range100,747 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 10239781 · 68,843 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO OPEN THE REAR WINDOW, IT COMPLETELY SHATTERED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 68,843.

Look up ODI 10239781 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10240253 · 75 mi

MY BACK REAR WINDOW EXPLODED WHILE I WAS AT WORK. IT HAPPEN AT 400AM SO IT WAS NOT HOT. *TR

Look up ODI 10240253 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10371724 · 132,650 mi

WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT AT A SLOW SPEED THE BACK WINDOW ON MY FORD EXPLORER SPORT SHATTERED. THE GLASS WAS COMPLETELY GONE AND NUMEROUS PIECES ENDED UP INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NO OBJECT FROM THE OUTSIDE THAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THIS INCIDENT. THE LIFT GATE HAD NOT BEEN OPENED PRIOR TO THIS EVENT. I BELIEVE IT WAS CAUSED BY THE HINGES AND THE MANNER IN WHICH THEY WERE DESIGNED TO ATTACH TO THE GLASS THAT TRIGGERED THIS EXPLOSION OF THE REAR WINDOW.

Look up ODI 10371724 at NHTSA ↗

Visibility:Glass, Side/RearToo few reports for a range50,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10112153 · 16,500 mi

NHTSA SAFETY RECALL 04V-442 OF 2003 FORD EXPLORER FORD IS REFUSING TO FIX MY VEHICLE. FORD IS STATING MY VEHICLE HAS NO RECALLS AND THIS RECALL DOES NOT EFFECT MY VEHICLE. I WAS DRIVING DOWN A ROAD WITH NO OTHER CARS WHEN MY REAR WINDSHIELD EXPLODED. THIS CAUSED ME TO THINK SOMEONE WAS SHOOTING OR ATTACKING WHICH ALMOST CAUSED ME TO CRASH MY VEHICLE THINKING I WAS UNDER ATTACK. THE POLICE CAME AND WROTE A REPORT, INVESTIGATED AND FOUND NO EVIDENCE OF MALICIOUS ACTS. FORD IS REFUSING TO RESOLVE THIS AND WILL NOT SAY WHY MY VEHICLE IS NOT E…

Look up ODI 10112153 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10302214 · 50,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND UNOCCUPIED THE REAR WINDOW WINDSHIELD SHATTERED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT IT DOES NOT SHATTER ON ITS OWN. THE MANUFACTURE ADVISED THE CONTACT TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH NHTSA. THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 50,000.

Look up ODI 10302214 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10618178 · 100,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFT GATE GLASS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V442000 (STRUCTURE) DUE TO THE VEHICLE BEING A TWO DOOR AND NOT A FOUR DOOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Look up ODI 10618178 at NHTSA ↗

Air BagsToo few reports for a range133,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10557427 · 133,000 mi

I WAS DRIVING IN SEMI WET CONDITIONS, GOING DOWNHILL AND ENGAGED THE OVERDRIVE OFF BUTTON. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHIMMY AND SHAKE, THEN FISH TAILED, RESULTING IN ME HITTING AN EMBANKMENT AND FLIPPING THE VEHICLE. NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED! I WAS ABLE TO CRAWL OUT OF THE WRECK BUT THE TRUCK WAS TOTALED. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THE VEHICLE DID THE EXACT SAME THING (EXCEPT THE CRASH), IN THE SAME WEATHER CONDITIONS. THE FIRST TIME, I WAS ABLE TO GET THE VEHICLE UNDER CONTROL. *TR

Look up ODI 10557427 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 22 reports

2004: 2 complaints · 2005: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2004112
2005000
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20041800
2005500

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentStructure:BodyStructure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And AttachmentsVisibility/WiperStructureUnknown Or OtherVisibilityVisibility:Glass, Side/RearAir Bags
Structure:Body—
2
ODI 10328674 · 78,796 mi

OPENED THE REAR WINDOW (HATCH) AND THE RIGHT SIDE FLEW UP - THE HINGE HAD DISENGAGED FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. LOCATED ON NHTSA.GOV #04V442000 WHICH COVERS THE SAME PROBLEM - WAS TOLD BY DEALER MY VEHICLE DID NOT FALL UNDER THIS RECALL (04S20) AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10328674 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10502475

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE NOTICED THAT THE REAR LIFT GATE HINGES WERE LOOSE AND THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE REAR GLASS WINDOW WOULD FALL FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 153,000. *TR

Look up ODI 10502475 at NHTSA ↗

3
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10547365 · 133,000 mi

WINDOW FEEL AND SHATTERED INTO A MILLION PIECES. AFTER CONTACTING MY INSURANCE TO HAVE THE GLASS REPLACED I FOUND OUT THE REASON FOR THE INCIDENT WAS DUE TO A FAULTY HINGE. I WAS TOLD BY THE GLASS COMPANY THAT THE HINGE FAILED DUE TO ELECTROLYSIS (TWO DIFFERENT METALS REACTING WITH EACH OTHER). I FEEL THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE THAT HAPPENED WITH FORD RECALL MANUFACTURER CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04S20, HOWEVER MY VIN DOES NOT PULL UP THIS ISSUE CODE AND THEREFORE I AM NOT RECEIVING ASSISTANCE FROM FORD WITH THIS MANNER. AFTER DOING RESEARCH ONLINE I HAVE F…

Look up ODI 10547365 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10562975 · 142,000 mi

ON THE MORNING OF 1/29/14 I WAS AT THE MARKET ,CAME OUT TO LOAD MY ITEMS INTO THE VEHICLE , OPENED THE REAR LIFT GATE AT ABOUT THE 1/3 OPEN POINT THE GLASS EXPLODED INTO A MILLION PIECES . WHICH IN TURN SENT SHARDS OF GLASS INTO MY FACE ,HANDS , HEAD AND EYES . THEY WERE MINOR INJURIES BUT I'M STILL EXTRACTING GLASS FROM MY HEAD AND HANDS AND THERE IS STILL GLASS EMBEDDED IN MY HANDS . I HAVE AN APT WITH MY DR ONLY BECAUSE THERE IS GLASS IN MY EYES. MY MOTHER WAS WITH ME BUT SHE WAS AT THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE SO SHE DIDN'T GET NAILED .I HAVE N…

Look up ODI 10562975 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 10532641 · 106,000 mi

SEVERE CLANKING/BANGING NOISE IN PASSENGER REAR. REPLACED SHOCKS. NOISE WORSENED. RESEARCHED AND FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING BODY MOUNTS WITH FORD EXPLORER SPORT VEHICLES. UPON INVESTIGATION - REACHING UP UNDER VEHICLE FOUND NO "BODY INSULATOR LEFT ON PASSENGER SIDE REAR AND ON DRIVER REAR THE INSULATOR CRUMBLED LIKE DIRT AND FINE POWDER. THE BODY MOUNTS APPEARED TO BE MANUFACTURED OF A FOAM LIKE MATERIAL - SUBSTANDARD AT BEST! REPLACEMENT PARTS MUST BE PURCHASED THROUGH FORD SINCE NO OTHER AFTERMARKET PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. PARTS ONLY (T…

Look up ODI 10532641 at NHTSA ↗

000
Structure:Body:Hatchback/Liftgate:Hinge And Attachments
2
ODI 10328674 · 78,796 mi

OPENED THE REAR WINDOW (HATCH) AND THE RIGHT SIDE FLEW UP - THE HINGE HAD DISENGAGED FROM THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. LOCATED ON NHTSA.GOV #04V442000 WHICH COVERS THE SAME PROBLEM - WAS TOLD BY DEALER MY VEHICLE DID NOT FALL UNDER THIS RECALL (04S20) AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10328674 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10502475

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE NOTICED THAT THE REAR LIFT GATE HINGES WERE LOOSE AND THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE REAR GLASS WINDOW WOULD FALL FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 153,000. *TR

Look up ODI 10502475 at NHTSA ↗

—000000
Visibility/Wiper
3
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10547365 · 133,000 mi

WINDOW FEEL AND SHATTERED INTO A MILLION PIECES. AFTER CONTACTING MY INSURANCE TO HAVE THE GLASS REPLACED I FOUND OUT THE REASON FOR THE INCIDENT WAS DUE TO A FAULTY HINGE. I WAS TOLD BY THE GLASS COMPANY THAT THE HINGE FAILED DUE TO ELECTROLYSIS (TWO DIFFERENT METALS REACTING WITH EACH OTHER). I FEEL THIS IS THE SAME ISSUE THAT HAPPENED WITH FORD RECALL MANUFACTURER CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04S20, HOWEVER MY VIN DOES NOT PULL UP THIS ISSUE CODE AND THEREFORE I AM NOT RECEIVING ASSISTANCE FROM FORD WITH THIS MANNER. AFTER DOING RESEARCH ONLINE I HAVE F…

Look up ODI 10547365 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10562975 · 142,000 mi

ON THE MORNING OF 1/29/14 I WAS AT THE MARKET ,CAME OUT TO LOAD MY ITEMS INTO THE VEHICLE , OPENED THE REAR LIFT GATE AT ABOUT THE 1/3 OPEN POINT THE GLASS EXPLODED INTO A MILLION PIECES . WHICH IN TURN SENT SHARDS OF GLASS INTO MY FACE ,HANDS , HEAD AND EYES . THEY WERE MINOR INJURIES BUT I'M STILL EXTRACTING GLASS FROM MY HEAD AND HANDS AND THERE IS STILL GLASS EMBEDDED IN MY HANDS . I HAVE AN APT WITH MY DR ONLY BECAUSE THERE IS GLASS IN MY EYES. MY MOTHER WAS WITH ME BUT SHE WAS AT THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE SO SHE DIDN'T GET NAILED .I HAVE N…

Look up ODI 10562975 at NHTSA ↗

0—
1
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

000
1
ODI 11230012

"TAKATA RECALL" AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS BLINKING WITH THE SEAT BELT NOISE. CHANGED THE LIGHT BULB FROM THE DASH BOARD AND NOW THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON BUT WILL NOT CONNECT WITH MILEAGE.

Look up ODI 11230012 at NHTSA ↗

Structure
1
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 10547344 · 99,000 mi

LEFT REAR LIFTGATE HINGE FAILED/BROKE; LIFTGATE GLASS ALMOST FELL OFF COMPLETELY (BUT WAS STILL PARTIALLY ATTACHED VIA RIGHT HINGE). THIS HAPPENED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PARKED. NO OBVIOUS SIGNS OF "WEAR AND TEAR"; LIFTGATE HINGE HAD BEEN USED NORMALLY FOR SEVERAL YEARS. MANY OTHER NHTSA REPORTS LIST THIS DEFECT (04V442000). FORD ISSUED A RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO (04S20), BUT IT ONLY COVERS A VERY SPECIFIC AND LIMITED RANGE OF VIN NUMBERS; MINE WAS EXCLUDED. MANY OTHER 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT OWNERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM, YET NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE…

Look up ODI 10547344 at NHTSA ↗

—0
1
ODI 10886191 · 159,149 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, A NOISE EMERGED FROM THE REAR HATCH WINDOW. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT THE PIECE THAT HELD THE WINDOW IN PLACE WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE SAME FAILURE IN MARCH OF 2015. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 159,149.

Look up ODI 10886191 at NHTSA ↗

00
Unknown Or Other
1
ODI 10532641 · 106,000 mi

SEVERE CLANKING/BANGING NOISE IN PASSENGER REAR. REPLACED SHOCKS. NOISE WORSENED. RESEARCHED AND FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING BODY MOUNTS WITH FORD EXPLORER SPORT VEHICLES. UPON INVESTIGATION - REACHING UP UNDER VEHICLE FOUND NO "BODY INSULATOR LEFT ON PASSENGER SIDE REAR AND ON DRIVER REAR THE INSULATOR CRUMBLED LIKE DIRT AND FINE POWDER. THE BODY MOUNTS APPEARED TO BE MANUFACTURED OF A FOAM LIKE MATERIAL - SUBSTANDARD AT BEST! REPLACEMENT PARTS MUST BE PURCHASED THROUGH FORD SINCE NO OTHER AFTERMARKET PARTS ARE AVAILABLE. PARTS ONLY (T…

Look up ODI 10532641 at NHTSA ↗

000—000
Visibility000
1
ODI 10886191 · 159,149 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, A NOISE EMERGED FROM THE REAR HATCH WINDOW. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT THE PIECE THAT HELD THE WINDOW IN PLACE WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE SAME FAILURE IN MARCH OF 2015. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 159,149.

Look up ODI 10886191 at NHTSA ↗

0—00
Visibility:Glass, Side/Rear000000—0
Air Bags00
1
ODI 11230012

"TAKATA RECALL" AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS BLINKING WITH THE SEAT BELT NOISE. CHANGED THE LIGHT BULB FROM THE DASH BOARD AND NOW THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON BUT WILL NOT CONNECT WITH MILEAGE.

Look up ODI 11230012 at NHTSA ↗

0000—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

3 patterns with matching reports.

Stalling or loss of power

5 mentions · 7.7% of complaints

Median mileage: 5,251 mi (5 usable records).

ODI 10046048 · 1,200 mi

INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. SOMETIMES THIS OCCURRED MORE FREQUENTLY IN WET WEATHER. DRIVER WOULD LET VEHICLE SIT FOR TEN MINUTES THEN IT WOULD RESTART. *AK

Look up ODI 10046048 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10051453 · 5,251 mi

THIS VEHICLE STALLS WHEN IDLING AT A RED LIGHT OR AT STANDSTILL. THIS VEHICLE ALSO DOESN'T ALWAYS START AT FIRST TRY. THERE IS ALSO EITHER A BAD CLUSTER OR LOSE WIRES TO THE DASH CLUSTER.

Look up ODI 10051453 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10062074 · 5,251 mi

THIS VEHICLE STALLS OUT WHEN STOPPING. WHEN TRYING TO GET GOING AGAIN IT DOESN'T THROTTLE PROPERLY. *AK

Look up ODI 10062074 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Hard or delayed shifting

1 mentions · 1.5% of complaints

Median mileage: 33,125 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10134296 · 33,125 mi

2003 FORD EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER AWD 4DR VIN [XXX] UNDER WARRANTY - 33125 MILES WHEN IN REVERSE EXPERIENCE BANGS/JERKS - DEALER STATED IT WAS TRANSMISSION SHIFT SOLENOID PACK AND REPLACED 6/05 - CONTINUED TO BANG/JERK INTO REVERSE UNTIL APPROX 1 MONTH LATER, VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE WHETHER IN DRIVE OR REVERSE, ALONG WITH LOUD WHINING NOISES - DEALER COULD NOT LOOK AT VEHICLE FOR ONE WEEK AT WHICH TIME FLAT BEDDED AT OWNERS COST AS NOW AT 37,000 MILES (OUT OF WARRANTY OF COURSE) FORD INSPECTED TRANSMISSION AND HAS DENIED REPAIR/REPLACEMENT UNDER WA…

Look up ODI 10134296 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

1 mentions · 1.5% of complaints

Median mileage: 36,300 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10189777 · 36,300 mi

IN FEBRUARY OF 2006, I TOOK MY 2003 FORD EXPLORER IN TO HAVE IT FIXED. AT THE TIME, MY VEHICLE ONLY HAD APP. 36,300 MILES ON IT. I HAD TO HAVE ALL THE SPARK PLUGS REPLACED BECAUSE THEY HAD GONE BAD. I WAS TOLD THE SPARK PLUGS SHOULD HAVE LASTED FOR 90,000 TO 100,000 MILES. IN APRIL OF 2007, WITH APP. 43,000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I TOOK IT IN FOR REPAIR AND WAS TOLD THE SPARK PLUG WIRES WERE ARCING AND WERE BURNED. I WAS TOLD THAT THE WIRES WERE ROUTED BADLY AND THAT THEY LAY AGAINST HOT AREAS OF THE CAR. I…

Look up ODI 10189777 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b