Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER | ||||||||||||||||
| 97V215000 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | from 08/05/1997 to 08/27/1997 | V (Vehicle) | 1100 | 12/19/1997 | MFR | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 11/24/1997 | 11/26/1997 | 571 | 114 | |||||
| Defect Summary | Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles, eddie bauer and limited editions. the key-in-ignition/door open warning chime may not function when the door is opened. this does not fully comply with fmvss no. 114, theft protection. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | The standard specified that a warning to the driver shall be actuated whenever the key has been left in the locking system and the driver's door is opened. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Dealers will install a jumper wire to provide the necessary ground circuit in these vehicles. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Owner notification is expected to begin december 19, 1997.owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393. | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |||||
| 03251 | 12/22/2003 | 10008276 | Driveability-malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated-diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) p0420 and/or p0430. *mj | 07/26/2004 | |
| 0475 | 01/01/2004 | 10008203 | Driveability-malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated-diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) p0420 and/or p0430. *mj | 07/23/2004 | |
| 17312 | 11/01/2003 | 10008162 | Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble codes p0420 and/or p0430. *tt | 07/22/2004 | |
| 03181 | 09/15/2003 | 10004027 | Remote keyless entry (rke) - service tips. *tt | 11/14/2003 | |
| 13879 | 03/01/2001 | 620279 | Information on replacing a gem module on 4x4 vehicles equipped with 4.0l sohc, ohv and the neutral tow kit. *tt | 07/23/2001 | |
| 12227 | 12/01/1998 | 615488 | For all vehicles with generic electronic module (gem) concerns that require a module replacement, the technician must call for approval before removing and / or replacing the module. *tt | 01/17/2001 | |
| 6905 | 09/01/1999 | 6090213 | Information on removing and / or replacing the generic electronic module (gem). *tt | 03/10/2000 | |
| 98246 | 12/07/1998 | 604059 | Ford motor company has released a new electrical grease ( f8az - 19g208-aa ) to reduce the possibility of moisture corrosion at the terminals. *yc | 03/16/1999 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - BATTERY | |||||
| 0245 | 03/04/2002 | 636065 | Information regarding discharged battery charging service tips and guidelines. *tt | 11/05/2002 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS | |||||
| 98-4817 | 09/01/1998 | 607230 | Some 1997-1998 explorer/mountaineer/expedition or navigator vehicles with 4-wd 4x4 system may exhibit both | 01/02/2001 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER | |||||
| 0162 | 04/02/2001 | 619266 | Vehicles equipped with passive anti-theft system (pats) may not start or crank. *tt | 05/22/2001 | |
| 99-6193 | 05/01/1999 | 607010 | Information on resetting the passive anti-theft system (pats). *tt | 11/03/2000 | |
| 12154 | 11/01/1998 | 613173 | Some vehicles equipped with pats (securilock) except certain models now have availability of fleet keys through rotunda. *mjs | 06/19/2000 | |
| 983566 | 01/01/1998 | 607837 | Information on programming / diagnosing any passive anti-theft system (pats) related issues. *tt | 10/13/1999 | |
| 983566 | 01/19/1998 | 607484 | Information regarding programming / diagnosing passive anti-theft system (pats) related issues. *tt | 09/23/1999 | |
| 98110 | 01/19/1998 | 605570 | Subject regarding passive anti theft system (pats) diagnostic service tips. *tt | 07/09/1999 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - MODULE | |||||
| 9913138 | 08/01/1999 | 609050 | Information on replacing and removing the generic electronic module (gem). *tt | 12/07/1999 | |
| 5705 | 03/01/1999 | 605194 | Vehicle exhibiting multiple generic electronic module (gem) related symptoms. *tt | 06/03/1999 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - SWITCH | |||||
| 012113 | 10/29/2001 | 627774 | Some ignition switch lock cylinder assemblies may exhibit rougness and / or excess effort in turning, key does not fully return from start, a malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate with p0500, p1502 and u1039 stored in powertrian control | 02/22/2002 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING | |||||
| 99222 | 10/18/1999 | 6089681 | Subject on a wire harness terminal repair kit available for repairing electrical wiring harnesses. *tt | 02/11/2000 | |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - FRONT UNDERHOOD | |||||
| 9912786 | 05/01/1999 | 607103 | Information regarding harness chafing issue. *tt | 09/13/1999 | |
| 6308 | 06/01/1999 | 606789 | Information pertaining to harness chaffing issue. *tt | 09/02/1999 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 05V388000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V488000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V347000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 06V286000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V078000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V336000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 08V025000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - FRONT UNDERHOOD | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 06V286000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V336000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V347000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 05V388000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V488000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 08V025000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
| EA05005 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 03/22/2005 | 08/02/2006 | ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES | 07V078000 | |
| Ea05-005 is closed with ford | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |||
| 06/20/2011 | 99000 | ||
| May 20, apporoximately 03:30am, while driving about 35mph to work in the dark with head lights on; headlights unexpectedly turned off. luckily that section of the street, had street lights working properly; but, i was approaching an unlighted stretch of winding road with a 45mph speed limit. this could have become very dangerous. (dashboard lights were not affected.) turning the normal headlight switch did not seem to fix the problem. i tried the bright light function, which is part of the turn signal lever. they did not come on at first; however when jiggling the turn signal lever, i noticed a looseness in the lever, at the base where it connects to the steering column. wiggling it, turned the head lights back on, temporarily; but, wiggling from vibration in traffic caused them to turn off again. the turn signal lever on the 1998 ford explorer is used to control the bright lights and also controls windshield wipers. i am not certain; but, i believe i had the turn signal lever assembly repaired several years ago by a ford dealer in san diego...neither of the dealers i used to have service my vehicle are still in business. i believe the problem with the turn signal lever at that time, had to do with the wipers cutting off unexpectedly; and, eventually, not working all together. first: is this something the government should investigate before having the vehicle repaired? second: should ford be the one investigating this problem? third: should ford replace the turn lever assembly and provide the labor at their expense? ... on a personal note, after working for the same company for 12 years and being a workaholic, i just got laid off last week. this expense is definitely going to cost several hundred dollars in parts and labor, when i can least afford it. at this time, i can rule out trying to apply for a night job. | |||
| 09/09/2011 | 98000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact was driving 30 mph when burning fumes were emitted into the vehicle. the contact moved the vehicle from the roadway, found that there were flames coming from under the hood, and extinguished the fire with an extinguisher. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 98,000. | |||
| 09/09/2011 | 98000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact was driving 30 mph when burning fumes were emitted into the vehicle. the contact moved the vehicle from the roadway, found that there were flames coming from under the hood, and extinguished the fire with an extinguisher. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 98,000. kmj | |||
| 09/09/2011 | 98000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving 30 mph burning fumes were emitted into the vehicle. once the driver parked she realized that smoke was emitted from under the hood and a fire extinguisher was used to put out the fire. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 98,000. pm | |||
| 06/16/2011 | 23000 | ||
| Tl. the contact 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated while the vehicle was parked the vehicle bursted into flames. the fire department was called to put out the fire. the vehicle was destroyed. the fire department stated the fire started due to something electrical the contact called the manufacturer regarding the fire and filed a complaint. the contact the fire could have caused serious injuries. the failure mileage was 23,000. jo | |||
| 11/14/2010 | 150000 | ||
| Tl. the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated while sleeping the contact heard a loud bomb. the contact looked out the window and the vehicle burst into flames. the contact called the fire dept. to put out the fire. no one was injured nor was any property damage. the contact called the manufacturer regarding any recalls and the manufacturer informed the contact the vehicle has no outstanding recalls. the fire dept. determined the fire was started by a electrical component on the driver side. the contact stated someone could have been seriously injured due to the fire. the failure mileage was 150,000. jo | |||
| 12/29/2009 | 108000 | ||
| Cigarette lighter caused wiring harness to burn. smoke filled the cabin when lighter stuck and immediately turned off vehicle. afterward several exterior and interior lights stayed on. the rear wipers were also activated. | |||
| 10/24/2009 | 112000 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer xlt. the contact stated that the turn signals were inoperable. the dealer replaced the directional control arm yet the failure recurred within a year. the directional control arm was replaced a second time by the dealer. he also noticed that the wires were discolored and stated that the vehicle needed several additional repairs. the contact declined to have the vehicle repaired. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the control arm did not need an additional replacement but suggested replacing the fuse. on a separate occasion, while using the turn signals, the turn signal switch inside began smoking. there were no additional repairs made to the vehicle or related recalls. the manufacturer stated that since there were no recalls, they would not provide any assistance. the failure mileage was 112,000 and the current was 191,000. | |||
| 01/10/2010 | |||
| Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. while trying to use the lighter in the vehicle, it began to smoke. the contact spoke with the manufacturer and no action was taken. the current and failure mileages were not available. | |||
| 03/06/2009 | 147000 | ||
| Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact was awakened in the early morning hours because his vehicle caught fire while parked. he inspected the vehicle and noticed that the flames were coming from under the hood on the driver's side, next to the wheel well. a couple of minutes later, the engine was engulfed in flames. the fire department was called and extinguished the fire. a police and fire report were filed. the fire department determined that the fire was caused by electrical failure under the hood. the contact called the manufacturer and was informed to call his insurance company to have them file a complaint against ford. the insurance company stated that because the contact only had liability insurance, they could not file a complaint against the ford manufacturer. the insurance company advised the contact to have the vehicle inspected by an electrical engineer to determine the cause of the failure. the engineer stataed that the cost to inspect the vehicle would be $250 per hour. the vehicle has not yet been inspected. the failure mileage was 147,000. | |||
| 02/28/2000 | 1 | 02/15/2000 | |
| 1998 ford explorer equipped with dual media (am/fm/cassette/cd) radio; there is a failure of the graphics display (i.e. time, station identity). the display sporadically lights up briefly for a few seconds every few months. also dashboard lights do not work at gas gauge. *nm | |||
| 01/22/2006 | 1 | ||
| We returned home from a concert at approximately 11 pm on january 21,2006. this was the last time the vehicle was driven. on s january 22 2006 at approximately 8:30 am we were awakened by our fire department concerning 1998 ford explorer limited was in flames. no investigation was done , but they said it was an apparent electrical fire. exploded front tires, busted windshield ,hood and grill demolished, engine compartment destroyed, both front fenders burnt , gas and brake pedals melted, dashboard damaged it is basically a total loss. *ak | |||
| 08/13/2005 | 141000 | 1 | 06/15/2001 |
| At about 6:00 pm on saturday 13 aug 2005 i went into my garage to get something and noticed it was full of smoke. i saw smoke coming from under the hood of my 1998 ford explorer. when i raised the hood, flames rolled from beneath it. i immediately extinguished the fire and then disconnected the negative battery terminal. my wife had already called 911 by this time. the fire fighters determined the source of the electrical fire to be a connector on the brake master cylinder. i was very lucky to have caught the fire in time. if this had happened when we were sleeping we might not be alive now. i have not received a notice of recall for this. i am sending the vehicle to the dealership on monday, if this is not a recall part i will have to pay for the repairs. i think that people should know about this problem and probably not park their ford in the garage. *jb | |||
| 06/30/2005 | 1 | ||
| Dt: the vehicle caught on fire. the fire department checked it and concluded fire came from driver's front side around the battery. this happened on june 30, 2005. the vehicle was parked about 6 or 7 hours before it caught in fire. contacted ford, they sent a letter saying sorry, but they didn't have any recalls on this type of vehicle. *ak | |||
| 06/11/2005 | 05/30/1998 | ||
| My wife had the ford explorer parked outside the curves gym where she and her mother work out. when they were finished they were talking outside when her mother noticed smoke coming out othe the suv. the explorer then caught on fire and burned. | |||
| 05/05/2005 | 98000 | 0 | 05/05/2005 |
| 5-5-05 3:30 a.m. licking county fire department was called due to fire 0f my 1998 ford exployer. it had set for two days before the fire. its not clear what caused the fire. co-counsel, lieff cabraser representing owners of ford vechicles claims ford speed control deactivation switches. also known as brake pressure switch, powered by the battery and is mounted above flamable flammable reservoires of brake fluid. if certain conditions occur, a fire can break out, even when the engine had been turned off and, in some cases, idle for days. | |||
| 06/17/2005 | 1 | ||
| Dt: on june 17, 2005 caller's vehicle caught on fire. this happened while vehicle was in the driveway turned off for about an hour. caller said a passerby noticed the fire and warned her. caller's fiance put the fire out and suffered smoke inhalation. he did not go to the hospital. vehicle was totaled. no report was filed with fire department. *ak | |||
| 09/13/2004 | 66000 | 06/01/1998 | |
| Hard to get vehicle out of park into drive for several days prior to the fire. about 2 hours after the vehicle had been parked, and engine turned off, a fire started under the hood, and destroyed the vehicle. | |||
| 04/17/2005 | 130000 | 1 | 06/04/2004 |
| Vehicle was parked for an hour or more when it caught fire under the hood on the driver side. the local fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. the cause of the fire was not determined at this time. the manufacturer was notified. *jb | |||
| 03/07/2005 | 116000 | 1 | 07/01/2001 |
| After vehicle was parked for four hours a fire started under the hood. the fire was put out. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak *jb | |||
| 11/09/2004 | 107000 | 1 | 03/01/2003 |
| The consumer parked the vehicle at her house for at least 7 hours. then, vehicle caught on fire. the fire department was contacted, and they indicated that the cause of the fire was possibly electrical. also, consumer contacted the manufacturer, who was no help at all. *ak the vehicle was totaled. *sc | |||
| 07/14/2004 | 103000 | 6 | |
| Since purchasing a used 1998 ford explorer i have been blessed with nothing but problems with it. 6 months after purchasing the vehicle my wheel bearings went out and damaged the spindle. this was a $500 expense as the spindle was a dealer part. when i purchased it there were 26000 miles on it...there were about 36000 when the bearings went out...just as the warranty expired. then, about a year later, the upper air intake manifold got a hole burned in it. again, ford couldn't offer me any kind of help and said it was a $800-1000 repair. on a side note, this type of problem was a known issue by ford. in fact, recalls were made by ford to replace the intakes free of charge to fleets but not to the general public. just recently my freeze plugs rusted through and caused my car to overheat. this has been quoted by ford as a $1300 repair. i called ford to see about some sort of goodwill warranty and of course anything with goodwill in the equation is definitely something ford will not do. i currently have 2 years left on the loan for a piece of crap car that isn't even worth half of what i still owe on it. i am really thinking of taking it back to the dealer and parking right in front of the entry way and taking the keys with me and telling them to stick it up their rears. ford makes the whole car industry look really bad and in no way would i ever buy another ford. please help us consumers out and make the game fair between the auto industry and consumers...we are getting ripped off left and right while they keep getting richer and richer. *la | |||
| 12/23/2003 | 71000 | 1 | 02/01/1999 |
| While driving at night the interior and exterior lighting shut off which caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle. the rear end of the vehicle began to fish-tail and the vehicle rolled over twice. *nm all systems including the antilock brakes failed. the accident was a result of multiple system failures. *sc | |||
| 09/22/2003 | 1 | ||
| 1998 ford explorer, we have had problems at different times getting the driver side door to open after the car had been unlocked. this happened several times. this might become a problem if consumer was trying to get out from the vehicle in case of an emergency. *ak | |||
| 07/02/2003 | 65000 | 1 | 09/04/1998 |
| Right turn signal periodically sticks on (not flashing) when commanded and sometimes comes on (not flashing) when the ignition is started. if left ono (not flashing) for more than 30-45 seconds, smoke comes out of the steering column. the smoke stops as soon as the light goes off. *jb | |||
| 08/22/2003 | 0 | 07/21/2001 | |
| 1998 ford explorer eddie bauer model, caught on fire while parked in my garage at 4:00 am. vehicle had not been driven since 5:30 pm previous evening. we were alerted by a smoke detector. vehicle was total loss, garage & attic above garage badly damaged resulting in complete loss of our personal property stored there. fire department report states that they think the fire started with the battery, which was original to the vehicle. *nlm | |||
| 04/15/2001 | 6 | 02/04/2001 | |
| We have a 1998 ford explorer, we have had problems at different times getting the trunk open after the car has been unlocked. this has happened several times and one time we worked on it for over an hour before getting it unlocked. this might become a problem if you were trying to get something or someone out of the back of the vehicle in case of an emergency. *nlm | |||
| 02/23/2003 | 81884 | 3 | 05/23/2002 |
| I was driving while towing a trailer and headlights, parking lights, and fog lights went out and smoke came out of the steering column. after cooling off, i drove the rest of the way holding the dimmer switch back towards me for 2-and-a-half hours. *nlm | |||
| 02/21/2000 | 1 | ||
| The vehicle stalled while making a left turn due to electrical system shut down resulting in accident. yh | |||
| 07/23/1998 | 0 | ||
| Consumer's daughter and friend had an accident because truck stalled out. consumer thinks it was an electrical problem . truck has been in shop 8 times. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR | |||
| 06/29/2002 | 44087 | 1 | 03/13/2002 |
| Defective alternator, rear axle seals, and oxygen sensor. *scc | |||
| 1 | 08/31/1998 | ||
| Alternator failed. *yc | |||
| 08/17/1998 | 1 | 04/29/1998 | |
| Alternator assembly was replaced after failure at 8324 miles. *yc | |||
| 10/05/1998 | 04/23/1998 | ||
| Noisy engine. dealer replaced intake manifold/timing chain/alternator and starter. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - BATTERY | |||
| 02/28/2006 | 1 | 04/24/2002 | |
| Ford explorer 1998 date 8-3-06 i have had this car for three years. i have never had any major or minor problems. i have regular required maintenance done (example) fluid changes and brakes. early february. i noticed around november 2005, my cruise control stopped working. i didn't take it to be checked; i didn't think it was a big issue. i noticed when starting my car, the battery sounded weak. i took the car to ntb to have the battery checked. the battery was bad and was replaced with the exide 72 month battery. i had never the battery replaced. ntb installed the new battery on february 5, 2006. i drive this car to and from work regularly, about 12 miles. on february 28, 2006, leaving work heading home, i stopped at the grocery store about 1 mile from my house. i left the store and went home. after turning the engine off approximately 5 minutes later standing on my porch, i noticed heavy white smoke coming from under my hood behind the battery area. i ran to my car and opened the door and released the hood. when i raised the hood, i saw the heavy smoke coming from what appeared to be near the wiring in front of the master cylinder. i ran in the house to call 911 and get a fire extinguisher. when i went back to the car under hood area was fully involved in flames. the fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. after hearing and reading the reports about the cruise control switch, i really think this is exactly what happened to my vehicle. *jb | |||
| 02/28/2006 | 110000 | 1 | 04/24/2002 |
| Ford explorer 1998 date 8-3-06 i've had this car for three years. i've never had any major or minor problems. i have regular required maintenance done (example) fluid changes and brakes. early february. i noticed around november 2005, my cruise control stopped working. i didn't take it to be checked; i didn't think it was a big issue. i noticed when starting my car, the battery sounded weak. i took the car to ntb to have the battery checked. the battery was bad and was replaced with the exide 72 month battery. i had never the battery replaced. ntb installed the new battery on february 5, 2006. i drive this car to and from work regularly, about 12 miles. on february 28, 2006, leaving work heading home, i stopped at the grocery store about 1 mile from my house. i left the store and went home. after turning the engine off approximately 5 minutes later standing on my porch, i noticed heavy white smoke coming from under my hood behind the battery area. i ran to my car and open the door and released the hood. when i raised the hood, i saw the heavy smoke coming from what appeared to be near are in front of the wiring in front of the master cylinder. i ran in the house to call 911 and get a fire extinguisher. when i went back to the car under hood area was fully involved in flames. the fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. after hearing and reading the reports about the cruise control switch, i really think this is exactly what happened to my vehicle. *jb | |||
| 10/12/1998 | 15000 | 2 | 10/12/1998 |
| Vehicle would not start. vehicle was taken to the dealer, and dealer indicated that battery was leaking acid. *ak | |||
| 05/20/2002 | 90037 | 4 | 03/09/2002 |
| There is a problem with the battery discharging . also the engine was stalling . i had to take the vehicle to the shop 4 times , and finally they changed the thermostat . the battery has started discharging again | |||
| 1 | 06/01/1998 | ||
| The dealer installed a new battery and four days later, the battery went dead. *yh | |||
| 07/02/2001 | 10/01/1999 | ||
| It started with the rear driver window intermittently not working. then the lock drop down inside door making the door unable to unlock and open. also engine stalled. took to the dealer. they fixed the door but couldn't find anything wrong with the engine or the window. window worked for them. brought the truck home that night and while i was driving it the battery light on the dash when on and the battery gauge started fluctuating to the h and finally held there. turned truck off and let sit and everything went back to normal. didn't reacurr for a couple of days but then started up again. abs light also started coming on and outside temp gauge started to go crazy. also engine idle started to surge as the battery gauge surged. this was on a weekend. took truck back to dealer. they couldn't make it do any of these things. they kept it for 5 days and drove it. still nothing. they decided to look at the electrical system and found the maxi fuse and wiring system burnt. i asked if it could have caught fire and they said no. however i looked at your web site under consumer complaints and found the several people have complained that their explorer had caught fire because of the wiring harness. some of these explorers were not running at the time of the fire and were parked in a garge. the dealer did replace the fuse and wiring harness however it took 11/2 weeks to get the parts in because they were backordered. obviously there is a problem with the wiring systems. i also park mine in a garge. i am now worried and afraid to park it in the garge. i have two small children and their safety is my first concern.*ak | |||
| 3 | 01/05/1998 | ||
| Battery failed. yh | |||
| 11/01/1997 | 3 | 11/11/1997 | |
| On two occasions vehicle stopped running while driving, due to battery failure. on another occasion the vehicle stopped running due to a short in the instrument panel. *yc | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS | |||
| 07/14/2009 | 42000 | 1 | |
| Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the contact stated that the windshield wipers in the vehicle would randomly stop working. this causes dangerous driving conditions in rainy weather. a mechanic stated that the electronic module in the wiper/washermotor was defective. the contact found nhtsa campaign id number 00v072000, nhtsa action number pe99049 (electrical system:fuses and circuit breakers) on the nhtsa website. he called the manufacturer and was informed that his vin was not included in the recall. the contact believes that his vehicle should be included because the failures were identical. the current and failure mileages were 42,000. updated 09/01/09. *lj updated 09/04/09.*jb | |||
| 08/15/2005 | 70686 | 07/01/2004 | |
| To whom it may concern: i purchased a used 1998 ford explorer 13 months ago. on aug 15,2005 i started my truck up and i could not roll my windows down then i went on to testing the wind shield wipers ( front & back ) they did not work (this is a safety hazzard ) i tried the interior lights they did not work and as well as the 4x4 system. i had to get home so when as i was driving ( luckily it was not raining ) i randomly tested everything again still nothing worked, so i left the switches on and every now and then everything would come on for a split second. when i got home i was baffled and started looking through my owners manual, no info that could help me figure out what the problem could be. so i went online and did some research on ford explorers and its electronics. my search brought me to the recall sights and when i looked on that sight i noticed that i had found the same excact problems i am having as the 1999 & 2000 ford explorer recalls as well as 1999 & 2000 mercury mountainers which is by the ford company. they are under the title - component: electrical system, fuses, and circuit breakers and the nhtsa recall # 00v072000 and the remedy for this problem is that the dealers will install a resistor in the gem circuit. i called ford company and they are not willing to help me with this problem because my truck is not on the recall list and i feel that it should be and that someone needs to understand that if this problem is happening to the 1999 & 2000' s then it is happening to the 1998 as well, they are the same truck made with the same materials and only updated with more physical features or omitted out dated physical features. unfortunatly i can't drive my truck now unless i know the weather is going to be clear of rain or other bad weather. i am not able to get it fixed because i can't afford it so i am stuck at the moment if anyone can help or advise it would be greatly appreciated - thank you david stansbury | |||
| 06/20/2005 | 88487 | 08/18/2001 | |
| I have a 1998 ford explorer, 5 liter, automatic, with cruise control. the safety disengage switch is on the master cylinder. with the ignition switch turned off there is still 12 volts going to that switch. the switch has a red body. my local ford dealer advises tht this is not a problem and there is not recall on this vehicle. this appears to be the same type switch setup as that in the ford vehicles that have caught on fire. please advise if i have cause for concern. presently i am disconnecting the switch when i park the vehicle in the garage. | |||
| 09/16/1998 | |||
| Vehicle experiencing problem with vibration whenever moving out of a tight parking space while turning the wheel. also, fuse to power window kept blowing out for unknown reaso.; dealer notified and unable to correct the problem. can nhtsa help inthis matter. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION | |||
| 10/12/1998 | 15000 | 2 | 10/12/1998 |
| Vehicle would not start. vehicle was taken to the dealer, and dealer indicated that battery was leaking acid. *ak | |||
| 06/16/2002 | |||
| Immediatly after starting vehicle there was a loud explosion under the hood, then a knocking sound. vehicle was towed to dealership, a spark plug had blown out, causing damage to engine.*ak | |||
| 11/01/1997 | 100 | 10/01/1997 | |
| Stalling - ford says it's not their responsibility. *ak | |||
| 7 | 03/01/1998 | ||
| Multiple severe hesitations on acceleration from stop. close calls from oncoming traffic 2 times, most recently 8/17/01. when parked in front of home, would not start for 2 days.towed to a dealer-atchley ford in omaha. they said could find no problem and started for them ok. has hesitated twice since then but not stalled. told by atchley mechanic explorer does not have ignition problem. claimed to be no error codes in processor. *ak | |||
| 04/01/1998 | |||
| Ignition often dies if accelerating from around 20 mph -- as when accelerating from toll booth, or after slowing to turn left or right. *ak | |||
| 04/07/2001 | 03/01/1998 | ||
| No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak | |||
| 11/24/2000 | 1 | ||
| The ignition coils were overheating and melting causing the vehicle to backfire and run rough. father is writing in for daughter and is requesting assistance. *mjs | |||
| 01/01/1999 | 4 | ||
| While traveling at a 30% grade or more with a 1/4 tank of gas or less engine shut off. dealer has checked twice, and said that it happened due to design flaw. *ak | |||
| 14 | |||
| Vehicle hesitates when pulling onto the highway. it has been taken to the dealership 14 times for this problem. dealership was not able to detemine what was causing this problem. this has been an ongoing problem for the last 5 months. please provide any further information.*ak | |||
| 09/21/2000 | 10 | 12/01/1998 | |
| This vehicle has repeated stalling problems (only accelerating from a stop or from low speeds). this trouble has been reported four times to the dealership and they always say nothing is wrong. on sept 21 my wife was almost hit in the passengers side while pulling into traffic. the vehicle has also stalled once at the dealership with a service tech. inside. they immediately searched for trouble codes and found none. the problem does not occur often but it occurs when you have to accelerate from a stop or into traffic. i am concerned about the well-being of my family and the dealership is not making any reasonable offers to remedy the problem. any response would be appreciated. *ak | |||
| 09/01/1999 | 4 | ||
| Periodically vehicle would stall, especially when vehicle is pulling into an interstate. consumer had taken vehicle to dealership on four different occasions. dealership only attempted to fix vehicle on the 3rd occasion. dealership has not been able to recognize the cause or issue a remedy.*ak | |||
| 15 | 09/01/1998 | ||
| The intermittent hesitation problem has occurred under conditions that have posed safety risks to the occupants of the vehicle. the servicing dealership has been unable to repair due to the intermittent nature of the problem, although there is a manufacturer's technical bulletin for this condition. all confidence in the safety of the vehicle has been lost at this point. also, i have heard similar complaints from other ford explorer owners while waiting at the dealership. i believe that this problem may be widespread. *ak | |||
| 10/03/1997 | 3 | 09/01/1997 | |
| Two spark plugs are dead. yh | |||
| 09/15/1998 | 20 | 03/01/1998 | |
| When i try to start the truck, the theft light flashes at me and won't allow the truck to start. this has already been towed to the dealer once and they re-programed the theft system. they accused me of sticking another key in the ignition. i am the only one that drives this truck. thank god, we only have one ford- this one! i know the difference between a ford and a gm key. i never stuck any other keys in the ignition. it happened again 6 days after the dealer re-programmed the system. now i have to have the truck towed again! please help. i think there is a problem. i never know if the truck will start when i drive somewhere. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER | |||
| 07/17/2002 | 3 | ||
| Anti theft indicator illuminates, vehicle will not start. this has happened 3 times. dealer stated computer showed no error code, cannot remedy the problem.*ak | |||
| 04/10/1998 | 2 | 04/02/1998 | |
| Ignition key anti theft design (glass vile inside the key) broke, not permitting vehicle to start. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - MODULE | |||
| 04/28/1999 | 1 | ||
| Ignition system failed. *slc | |||
| 06/01/2000 | 3 | 03/01/1998 | |
| Traveling 20mph, had no prior warning;, and lost power, just stopped. a few seconds later, it would catch again. also, when accelerating or turning corners, vehicle would lose power. problem was intermittent. took vehicle to dealership & mechanic indicated it was pcm related. problem may be solved*ak. the dealer could not solve the problem. *yh | |||
| 11/01/1999 | 01/01/1999 | ||
| Inc #1 4--wheel drive lights flashed 15 seconds, 4-wheel drive motor replaced. inc #2 - vehicle stalled during left turns after travlling at hwy speeds. new processor installed, problem still exists. *ak | |||
| 10/22/1998 | |||
| Vehicle stalled upon stopping while applying accelerator pedal, causing engine to shut off. vehicle been in/out of dealer shop for inspection/repairs. ecu was replaced, and problem still reoccurring. *ak | |||
| 09/23/1998 | |||
| Vehicle has hesitation problems. problem is intermittent. took vehicle to dealer & placed on monitoring after it happend 5 times. nothing showed up. manufacturer sent information regarding problem with computer chip which was replaced. *ak | |||
| 04/11/1998 | |||
| Because of minor damage to the computer chip in the ignition key, the explorer will not start. manufacturer or dealer not willing to remove feature at owner's expense. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - SWITCH | |||
| 11/14/2005 | 1 | 09/01/1998 | |
| Dt: the contact stated the key did not unlock the doors. it still worked on the ignition and the rear door. the vehicle has not been to a dealership for a diagnosis. but according to the dealership the computer chip in the key failed. the dealership stated they could make a new key for the doors, but if it was put in the ignition it could damage the ignition. *ak | |||
| 03/25/1998 | 1 | 04/01/1998 | |
| Fire in ignition switch area. this is the same ignition switch used in other ford vehicles which had been recalled for similar shorting problems and fires. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - STARTER ASSEMBLY | |||
| 10/05/1998 | 04/23/1998 | ||
| Noisy engine. dealer replaced intake manifold/timing chain/alternator and starter. | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - STARTER ASSEMBLY - SOLENOID | |||
| 01/01/2002 | 1 | 11/10/1998 | |
| Consumer stated the solenoid bracket is inoperative.*jb | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING | |||
| 02/22/2006 | 89000 | 1 | 12/06/2005 |
| 1. my 1998 ford explorer xlt burst into flames with absolutely no warning while parked at my daughter's high school parking lot. 2. the vehicle was consumed by flames and is a total loss. the local fire department brought two units to put the fire out. 3. after filing my insurance claim, i researched the problem and found that the ford explorer poses a big fire risk. 4. specifically, my cruise control stopped working 3 months ago and just as been documented by the nhtsa, the defective cruise control caused the electrical fire. 5. i thank my lucky stars nobody was hurt....but if my explorer had been parked inside my apartment building this incident would have burned down my building. pls let me know if you require additional documentation or photos. *nm | |||
| 02/25/2006 | 0 | 1 | 08/18/2001 |
| 1998 ford explorer, 5.0, sn 1fmzu32pxwzb80739, speed control after learning about the fires caused by the speed control on other ford vehicles i check the '98. voltage is measured at the speed control disengage switch located on master cylinder. using a voltage meter i measured 12 volts to this switch with the ignition switch in the off position with the key removed. this indicates that the switch is hot 100% of the time. i have not had a failure yet, but am concerned that this represents a possible failure in the future causing the vehicle to urn up. i have noted that there have been 16 failures and fires on 1998 ford explorers do to this problem. *jb | |||
| 04/19/2005 | 1 | ||
| Vehicle was parked outside of the home and a few minutes later it caught on fire. the fire department was called to extinguish the fire. vehicle was towed and totaled by the insurance company. *ak | |||
| 12/04/2004 | 1 | ||
| Vehicle taken to repair shop when the left turn signal did not operate. the result showed that a new computer module was needed. then, vehicle was driven home when consumer heard a crackling noise coming from inside the steering column. vehicle returned back to the repair shop, and mechanic determined that there was a problem with the electrical wires in the steering column. repair was performed by the repair shop.*ak | |||
| 12/27/2002 | 1 | 01/13/2001 | |
| Electrical fire in steering column. while traveling at highway speeds at night, drive lights went out and steering column was glowing and smell of burnt plastic. wiring harness, multi-function switch both melted. no after market add on or modifications made to vehicle. ts | |||
| 02/17/2002 | 3 | 02/01/2002 | |
| When making turns, especially right turns, vehicle slides and almost turns over.*ak. consumer states vehicle is experiencing acceleration problems,and there was a humming noise coming from the engine, signals are not working, dealer replaced a defective connector and multi-function switch, firestone tires have experienced tread separation, which were replaced in july 2001, the rear seats move/bounce when driving, the rear seat belts were inoperative, the dealer replaced the buckles, there was smoke coming from the steering column, dealer replaced the multi-function switch, the windshield was chipped, the alarm would not chut off at times, dealer replaced a bad loose wire.*jb | |||
| 03/01/1998 | 5 | 02/01/1998 | |
| Wires in steering column failed . yh | |||
| 06/28/1998 | 6 | 04/13/1998 | |
| While driving vehicle interior lamps/odometer/speedometer, wipers, and power windows went out. possible cause defective fuse. dealer's engineers are looking into problem. *ak dealer repaired wiring. *slc | |||
| 07/25/1998 | |||
| Vehicle was parked and consumer looked out of the window and saw the vehicle up in flames. the fire department put out the fire, and they determined that the fire was caused by electrical wire. *ak | |||
| 09/29/1997 | 4 | 09/27/1997 | |
| The dealer/ factory did not fullt tighten the the main power wire in the engine which caused power surges in all electronic equipment. this could result in an accident by consumerloosening power to steering/lights or brakes. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - FRONT UNDERHOOD | |||
| 02/26/2007 | 135000 | 1 | 09/14/1997 |
| Last night i pulled into my driveway after coming home from work, my family had dinner and i was sitting down in the living room to play with my 2 year old son. i heard a popping sound and asked my wife what was that noise, she looked out the window and yelled your car is on fire ! my car burned to the ground!!! *jb | |||
| 04/14/2006 | 58000 | 1 | |
| 1998 ford explorer parked in garage had spontaneous fire in engine compartment department put out fire. this was a cruise control deactivation switch fire. it may have been reported to you by police, insurance, or fire dept. if so, just let me know you have the information. *jb | |||
| 02/25/2006 | 0 | 1 | 08/18/2001 |
| 1998 ford explorer, 5.0, sn 1fmzu32pxwzb80739, speed control after learning about the fires caused by the speed control on other ford vehicles i check the '98. voltage is measured at the speed control disengage switch located on master cylinder. using a voltage meter i measured 12 volts to this switch with the ignition switch in the off position with the key removed. this indicates that the switch is hot 100% of the time. i have not had a failure yet, but am concerned that this represents a possible failure in the future causing the vehicle to urn up. i have noted that there have been 16 failures and fires on 1998 ford explorers do to this problem. *jb | |||
| 07/27/2005 | 1 | 01/01/2001 | |
| Dt: the contact owns a 1998 ford explorer. the engine caught on fire while the car was sitting there. this did happened on july 27, 2005. the firemen could not determine what started the fire. the vehicle had been sitting for approximately four hours before it caught on fire. the vehicle had not been driving any different before this happened. *ak | |||
| 06/27/2005 | 159000 | 0 | 10/12/2002 |
| Fire started in vehicle in the garage of our home | |||
| 05/15/2004 | 126000 | 1 | 08/25/1998 |
| On may 15, 2004, i was fishing in a local bass tournament. i parked my 1998 ford explorer beside one of my fishing friends chevy truck and boat trailer. after launching my partner for the days boat, i parked his truck and trailer on the other side of my explorer. approximately 4 hours later, my partner and i were approched by another friend and told us we were needed back at the parking lot that my explorer had burned to the ground, burned the chevy with the trailer to the ground and scorched paint and melted parts of my partners truck. the chevy truck and my explorer were total losses and i lost a lot of personal items that insurance did not pay for. state farm claim # 18-1010-243 | |||
| 02/14/2005 | 105000 | 1 | |
| While parked for 45 minutes a fire started under the hood. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak | |||
| 09/17/2004 | 125000 | 1 | |
| Underhood fire in explorer. minor fire concentrated around cruise control deactivation switch. fuse for that circuit blown. xrays show total internal destruction of the switch contacts even though the plastic body is still relatively intact but charred and deformed. | |||
| 05/07/2002 | |||
| Vehicle was parked outside of home and without prior warning it caught on fire. dealership was aware of problem.*ak | |||
| Vehicle was parked in off position for over ten minutes and caught on fire in engine compartment. also, vehicle was serviced for recall 00v422000 regarding throttle. consumer not sure if cause of fire was due to that problem. please provide any further details. *ak | |||
| 11/01/2000 | 1 | ||
| Fire under hood while vehicle parked, with power off. vehicle sat for 5 hrs, then fire started. flames under hood and from rear window defogger connection. battery then exploded. no fire under car. passenger compartment untouched. *ak | |||
| 07/21/2000 | 09/01/1998 | ||
| Multi unit radio system, the clock/station displayed went out. *ak | |||
| 05/31/2000 | 1 | 11/01/1999 | |
| Ford said that they were not interested in looking at the vehicle to determine what the cause was. the engine fire occurred 3 1/2 hours after the vehicle was parked. it was parked in the street, but it is normally in my garage. if it had been in the garage, my house would have caught fire and my family could have been killed. i will never feel confortable with it in the garage again. is there something that you can do ?*ak | |||
| 05/31/2000 | 1 | 11/01/1999 | |
| After parking vehicle for 3.5 hours engine compartment broke out into a fire. the fire was determined to be an electrical short. dealer has been contacted. *ak *ml | |||
| 04/09/1998 | 1 | 11/13/1997 | |
| While driving the truck lost all power and electricity. took the truck to dealer and they said that they fixed an alternator wire loom for excess, and replaced a part of the power distributor box. the nut to the alternator wire loom was left loose which could cause the truck to melt from the mounted plate that they could not tighten. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - INTERIOR/UNDER DASH | |||
| 05/05/2005 | 98000 | 0 | 05/05/2005 |
| 5-5-05 3:30 a.m. licking county fire department was called due to fire 0f my 1998 ford exployer. it had set for two days before the fire. its not clear what caused the fire. co-counsel, lieff cabraser representing owners of ford vechicles claims ford speed control deactivation switches. also known as brake pressure switch, powered by the battery and is mounted above flamable flammable reservoires of brake fluid. if certain conditions occur, a fire can break out, even when the engine had been turned off and, in some cases, idle for days. | |||
| 08/20/2001 | 20 | 07/12/2001 | |
| Ford explorer 98, interior windows, lights, etc. do not work. electrial power problems interiorally. have tried over 5 times over years to have fix by carmax and ford. electrical problems would work for 1-2 weeks, had warranty at times. but now warranty is out carmax and ford stated it a manufactory electical issues.*ak | |||
| 05/15/2002 | 1 | 07/01/2098 | |
| No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak | |||
| 02/21/2002 | 1 | 11/01/1998 | |
| 1998 ford explorer 4wd mileage: 82000. the problem just started yesterday. i noticed no problems with the way the vehicle drives or handles...but the 4wd hi and 4wd lo lights on the dashboard periodically (every 5 - 10 minutes) blink 5 times simultaneously. the dash is normal for 5 minutes, and then the lights blink again. this happens repetitively whether driving in town, on the highway, etc. i have had the vehicle in 4wd auto the whole time. i have not used the 4wd very much at all!*ak | |||
| 03/01/2001 | 1 | ||
| An electrical fire which originated in dashboard area while vehicle was in park. prior to fire, if turn signal was left on for an extended period of time, roughly over a minute, smoke would come from dashboard. no investigation has been made to determine cause of fire. *ak | |||
| 10/06/2000 | 1 | 10/01/1999 | |
| Vehicle lost all power including power steering and power brakes at 70 mph on 4 lane interstate 85/40 without warning. dealership stated the passenger's foot unknowingly disconnected wiring harness causung engine to stop running. this vehicle has only been serviced by the ford dealership. the wiring harness should not have been in the position in which it could be disconnected by the passenger. | |||
| 02/18/2000 | 1 | 09/01/1998 | |
| The transmission would not upshift and i would lose control of the car's accelaeration power until it would slide into gear. the electrical system has got out on me twice while driving. all of the instrument panel zeros out except for the speedometer and tachometer. this problem has still not been fixed. | |||
| 02/15/1998 | |||
| Ongoing problem with rear windshield wiper failure. on one occasion motor was replaced. later on, windshield wiper commenced to operate erratically or not at all. also, noticed instrument panel would get too hot to touch. dealer notified, and informed consumer that it was normal. please feel free to provide any further details on both of these matter. *ak | |||
| No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak | |||
| 12/01/1998 | 30 | 08/01/1998 | |
| Windshield wipers don't work and 4-wd dash light flashes when engine is cold and outside temperature is less than 40 deg f. wipers work ok after engine warms up (about 5 min). | |||
| 11/15/1998 | |||
| When opening up the door and there was black smoke coming from the vehicle, and the dashboard melted. consumer did not know why this problem happened. *ak | |||
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK | |||
| 06/01/1998 | 4 | 03/01/1998 | |
| Rear windshield wiper motor keeps shorting out has burn four motors completly up. now total system out. no door locks, windows, seats or anything electric. can smell burning wires. ford will not do replacement or buyback. their solution is to bring it in once a month for a new motor, sooner or later it will quit burning them up. | |||