Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STRUCTURE
04261612/31/200410014310Weld bonding procedure. *tt04/29/2005
STRUCTURE - BODY
0425112/27/200410014165Aluminum corrosion - service tip. *tt04/28/2005
048501/01/20050524210008546Liftgate glass applique damaged/cracked. service procedure. *tt08/04/2004

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STRUCTURE
03/01/201153000
 My 2005 ford explorer has a large vertical crack in the rear panel. i have seen this in dozens of vehicles with similar body styles, for refuses to fix the problem and gave me a quote of $472.
03/07/2011108750
 While driving my 2005 ford explorer, i pulled out from an intersection and had not reached the speed limit yet when the rear window exploded then causing both struts to the hatch to extend and therefore break the entire framework of the rear hatch. this window was in good condition with no prior cracks in it and there were no other vehicles any around me when this happened. ford has taken no responsibility to this and i am forced to pay out of pocket for this expense.
12/22/201097000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer limited. the contact stated that the vehilce's rear hatch plastic molding was cracked. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer collision center for inspection, and they advised that there was not a safety recall related to the defect. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 97,000. js
12/14/201058000
 Came outside and noticed a crack in my rear hatch going all the way down. ford dealer says they will not cover it, even with a extended warranty.
10/17/201069000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated there is a crack that goes from the bottom of the rear window on the rear lift gate that goes all the way down to the ford emblem. the contact had spoken with the manufacturer, but the vehicle had not been inspected. the failure mileage and current mileage was 69000.rl
08/23/201075000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the vehicle was parked when he noticed there was a crack on the rear lift gate directly under the rear window near the ford emblem. over the course of one month the size of the crack has increased. an authorized dealer was notified and he was informed this was a common failure among these vehicles. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 75,000 and the current mileage was 82,000. sm.
05/27/201051000
 Paint is delaminating on the roof of my 2005 explorer. vehicle has 53000 miles on it. since i am out of warranty, ford will not fix it. from the research i have done on the internet, this is a common problem with this generation explorer (2002-2005). i owned a 1998 explorer for 10 years without any paint related problems.
04/05/2009500001
 I have a crack on the tailgate of my 2005 for explorer. i saw on our local news that many others are having the same problem. *tr
02/06/2010940001
 Panel below tailgate glass has vertical crack. purchased 2005 explorer 2 weeks ago and it was in perfect condition (had an 02 explorer with same crack issue so i knew what to look for). crack literally happened overnight. if toyota can have a massive recall then so can ford. *tw
08/22/20091
 The paint on my 2005 ford explorer is peeling off big chunks in numerous spots on the roof. i contacted ford and they told me that since it was past my 3 year 36,000 mile warranty that it was up to me to get fixed.i want ford to have this problem fixed. i shouldn't be having to pay for defective paint that ford is well aware of. a recall needs to be done on ford vehicle paint. *tr
01/12/2009320001
 I noticed one day that the panel below my rear window was cracked. it's like it just magically appeared overnight! the thing is a terrible eyesore, and i'm so tired of ford refusing to repair what is clearly a defect. *tr
10/01/2009522501
 10/1/09 noticed paint was bubbling up and peeling off the roof of my vehicle. brought vehicle to dealer who refused to repair it since vehicle was out of warranty. judging by what i've read on the internet plenty of ford owners have the same problem and ford motor co. refuses to fix it. paint should not fail on brand new vehicles after four years. once again the consumer gets no satisfaction. *tr
07/01/2008530001
 The paint on my 2005 ford explorer eddie bauer edition is peeling off big chunks in numerous spots on the roof. i contacted ford and they told me that since it was past my 3 year 36,000 mile warranty that it was up to me to get fixed. my car had approximately 53,000 miles on it when i reported it. i want ford to have this problem fixed. i shouldn't be having to pay for anything to be repainted on a car that is 4 years old! *tr
11/01/2008299991
 2005 ford explorer paint falls off. *tr
06/06/200863000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the paint is peeling off the roof of the vehicle. when the contact took her vehicle to the dealer, she was informed that they would not cover the repair costs because the vehicle had over 63,000 miles. ford only covers the paint job if the vehicle has less than 12,000 miles. the current and failure mileages were 63,000.
05/14/20061
 I purchased a 2005 ford explorer limited from a ford dealership in the spring of 2006. the vehicle was a lease return. after driving the vehicle i noticed a vibration in the floorboard and in the gas pedal. i e-mailed ford concerning this and they sent me to the dealership where i purchased the vehicle for the corrective action. i've been back and forth to the dealership appox 8 times for the same problem and no resolution has been found. i contacted ford a couple of more times and i still haven't gotten the problem resolved. in the meantime this vibration gives me back and headaches and numbness in my feet and i can no longer drive the vehicle because of the adverse affects it has on me. what more can i do? mclean ford-mercury have been great through out this whole ordeal. they've done more than most dealerships would do and have been super. unfortunately i can't say the same for ford. i'm really disappointed and dissatisfied with their service. *nm
STRUCTURE - BODY
03/04/201381300
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that there was a crack in the lift gate. the manufacturer was notified but they offered no assistance. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileage was 81,300.
03/04/201381300
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that there was a crack in the lift gate. the manufacturer was notified but they offered no assistance. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileage was 81,300. mah
03/04/201381300
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that there was a crack in the lift gate. the manufacturer was notified but they offered no assistance. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure and current mileage was 81,300. dt
02/18/2013100000
 Below rear window, top hatch crack out of no where. reason for filing complaint is i just saw another ford explorer that had the same crack.
02/07/2013167000
 The panel at the bottom of the rear lift gate window cracked the entire length of the panel. approximately 8 inch crack. i have since seen several other ford explorers and a mercury suv with the same crack. obviously ford has a problem which they are not making good on.
02/28/2012
 The paint in the valleys on the roof has all flaked off and is rusting. problem with the paint. i purchased this vehicle 2 years ago and first noticed it last year.
02/07/2013167000
 The panel at the bottom of the rear lift gate window cracked the entire length of the panel. approximately 8 inch crack. i have since seen several other ford explorers and a mercury suv with the same crack. obviously ford has a problem which they are not making good on.
02/28/2012
 The paint in the valleys on the roof has all flaked off and is rusting. problem with the paint. i purchased this vehicle 2 years ago and first noticed it last year.
02/07/2013167000
 The panel at the bottom of the rear lift gate window cracked the entire length of the panel. approximately 8 inch crack. i have since seen several other ford explorers and a mercury suv with the same crack. obviously ford has a problem which they are not making good on.
02/28/2012
 The paint in the valleys on the roof has all flaked off and is rusting. problem with the paint. i purchased this vehicle 2 years ago and first noticed it last year.
08/16/20121001021
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom right side of the ford emblem/logo. *tr
08/16/2012100102
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom right side of the ford emblem/logo.
11/30/2012120000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the rear hatch back panel developed a fracture. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician advised the contact that the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 120,000 and the current mileage was 127,000.
08/16/2012100102
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom right side of the ford emblem/logo.
11/30/2012120000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the rear hatch back panel developed a fracture. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician advised the contact that the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 120,000 and the current mileage was 127,000.
08/16/2012100102
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom right side of the ford emblem/logo.
11/30/2012120000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the rear hatch back panel developed a fracture. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician advised the contact that the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 120,000 and the current mileage was 127,000. kmj
08/16/2012100102
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom right side of the ford emblem/logo.
11/30/2012120000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the rear hatch back panel had developed a crack. the vehicle was taken to the dealer. the technician stated that the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included on any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 120,000 and the current mileage was 127,000. pm
11/29/20121040001
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom left of the ford logo insert. *tr
11/29/2012104000
 Liftgate plastic body panel cracked from top to bottom left of the ford logo insert
01/18/2012700001
 The panel under the back lift window next to the emblem is cracked all the way across just like every one else's have done i wish they would fix it but that may not happen all the cars i have owned since i got my license have been ford my first car was a 1955 2 door i still have it i guess the warranty is no good on it either. *tr
01/18/201270000
 The panel under the back lift window next to the emblem is cracked all the way across just like every one elses have done i wish they would fix it but that may not happen all the cars i have owned since i got my license have been ford my first car was a 1955 2 door i still have it i guess the warranty is no good on it either.
11/22/2012940001
 Large crack through the entire lift gate panel under the window. *tr
11/22/201294000
 Large crack through the entire lift gate panel under the window.
10/16/2012816491
 Went to load stuff into the back and noticed a spider crack on the plastic panel right below the rear glass panel. i have no idea how it got there but this seems to be reported by almost all 05 explorer owners and it needs to be replaced under ford's liability since it is such a common issue and not just a small amount of vehicles occurring this problem. *tr
10/16/201281649
 Went to load stuff into the back and noticed a spider crack on the plastic panel right below the rear glass panel. i have no idea how it got there but this seems to be reported by almost all 05 explorer owners and it needs to be replaced under ford's liability since it is such a common issue and not just a small amount of vehicles occurring this problem.
11/07/20121700451
 My vehicle was parked. i went out in the morning to take my children to school. i noticed a large vertical crack in the lift gate panel to the right of the ford emblem. it had not been driven. this happened overnight while my vehicle was parked. i did some research to find that this is a common problem with this year/model. *tr
11/16/201165000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that while parked the panel below the rear window of the tailgate of the vehicle was split. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not under any recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the vehicle was not seen by a technician or mechanic. the approximate failure mileage was 65,000 and the current mileage was 68,292.
11/07/20121700451
 My vehicle was parked. i went out in the morning to take my children to school. i noticed a large vertical crack in the lift gate panel to the right of the ford emblem. it had not been driven. this happened overnight while my vehicle was parked. i did some research to find that this is a common problem with this year/model. *tr
11/16/201165000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that while parked the panel below the rear window of the tailgate of the vehicle was split. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not under any recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the vehicle was not seen by a technician or mechanic. the approximate failure mileage was 65,000 and the current mileage was 68,292.
11/07/2012170045
 My vehicle was parked. i went out in the morning to take my children to school. i noticed a large vertical crack in the lift gate panel to the right of the ford emblem. it had not been driven. this happened overnight while my vehicle was parked. i did some research to find that this is a common problem with this year/model.
11/16/201165000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that while parked the panel below the rear window of the tailgate of the vehicle was split. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not under any recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the vehicle was not seen by a technician or mechanic. the approximate failure mileage was 65,000 and the current mileage was 68,292. pmb
11/16/201165000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. while parked the contact stated the panel below the rear window of the tailgate of the vehicle was split. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not under any recall. the vehicle was not repaired. the vehicle was not seen by technician or mechanic. the approximate failure mileage was 65,000 and the current mileage was 68,292. dr
09/28/20111314601
 Nothing that i am aware of happened. i was walking behind the vehicle in my drive way and noticed a long crack below the glass on the liftgate. as the weeks went on it kept cracking and now it is almost cracked all the way. *tr
09/28/2011131460
 Nothing that i am aware of happened. i was walking behind the vehicle in my drive way and noticed a long crack below the glass on the liftgate. as the weeks went on it kept cracking and now it is almost cracked all the way.
09/03/201272000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the panel under the rear window split around the outside of the window, which extended to the ford emblem. the damage became progressively worse over time and the contact was concerned that the window could explode when she drove through a car wash. the contact also stated that heat could be a factor in the failure. in addition, the rear latch failed to engage when she attempted to close the rear window. the dealer was contacted and advised that she would be responsible for the repair costs since there were no recalls for the failure. also, the tire sensor gauge remained illuminated at all times. the tire mechanic stated that the failure was a common problem that could have been caused by the spare tire. the contact stated that she had to check the air pressure of the tires on a continual basis. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 72,000. kmj
09/03/201272000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the panel under the rear window split around the outside of the window which extended to the ford emblem. the damage became progressively worse over time. a collision mechanic stated they were familiar with the failure. she is concerned that the window could explode when she drives through the car wash. the failure began approximately one month ago. the heat could be a factor. the rear latch also failed to engage when she attempted to close the rear window. the ford dealer advised her that she would be responsible for the repair cost since there were no programs to assist with the repairs. the tire sensor gauge also remains illuminated at all times. the tire mechanic stated it was a common problem that could be caused by a spare tire; however, she needs to check the air in the tires on a continuous basis. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 72,000. rk
03/15/2012800001
 Parked and went into grocery store. came out going to where i had parked. as i walked up to the back of my vehicle i noticed a vertical crack in the panel under the rear window. at first i thought i was at the wrong vehicle because i knew my 2005 explorer was not cracked. upon further examination,i realized this was my vehicle. i have seen another explorer around town with a vertical crack in the same spot. seems to me this just might be a design problem. believe ford motor should repair at no cost. ## vin passed ## ford explorer xlt 2005 ## *tr
11/17/20101150001
 My car was parked in a small lot at work. when going out to load some items in the cargo area, a friend noted the vertical crack in the lift gate. it is to the left of the ford emblem and i have since seen numerous identical cracks on other vehicles. there was no collision that cause this, there are no scratches or dents. it is a manufacturer defect. *tr
11/17/2010115000
 My car was parked in a small lot at work. when going out to load some items in the cargo area, a friend noted the vertical crack in the lift gate. it is to the left of the ford emblem and i have since seen numerous identical cracks on other vehicles. there was no collision that cause this, there are no scratches or dents. it is a manufacturer defect.
06/06/201180000
 Crack at back glass running down the car left of ford emblem. glass could fall out.
03/02/201276000
 Noticed crack from top to bottom of rear body panel applique along side of ford emblem.
01/13/201265000
 Found a crack on the rear liftgate right around the ford emblem. after mentioning it to a friend, turns out she had the same problem with her explorer and a search online shows many others have had the same issue with this model year.
08/01/201137000
 Right next to the ford emblem a crack developed. it's on the rear glass hatch and runs from the top of the fiberglass panel to the bottom. the panel keeps expanding and contracting with the crack going from just a slight line to a 3/16 gap! definately a manufacturer defect. i've seen many other explorers with the same issue. the truck was in perfect condition when it appeared and ford says that it's not their problem. too bad your warrenty has run out! poor design that ford should fix for the money we have given them for the vehicle.
11/25/201172000
 Rear liftgate panel under window 10 inch crack in middle.glass loose.
11/07/201187000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the exterior plastic trim of the liftgate glass was cracked. the dealer advised the contact that the failure was common. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 87,000 and the current mileage was 89,000. kmj
11/07/201187000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the lift gate glass exterior plastic trim failed. the plastic cracked. the dealer advised the failure was a common failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 87,000 and the current mileage was 89,000. li
10/22/201188081
 Cracked rear door panel just below the window, in the middle of the ford emblem. may cause rear window to fall out unexpectedly. ford is aware of the defect but refuses to recall and fix it.
10/16/201156000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact noticed a crack on the rear liftgate near the manufacturing emblem. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer offered any assistance since there were no recalls for the vehicle. the vehicle was not repaired. the current and failure mileages were 56,000.
10/16/201156000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact noticed a crack on the rear liftgate near the manufacturing emblem. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer offered any assistance since there were no recalls for the vehicle. the vehicle was not repaired. the current and failure mileages were 56,000. kmj
10/16/201156000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact noticed a crack on the rear liftgate near the ford emblem. the dealer or manufacturer did not offer any assistance since there were no recalls and offered no further assistance. no repairs were performed. the current and failure mileages were 56,000. bw
09/28/201162000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer . the contact stated that the hatch back panel was cracked. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who advised that the failure was a manufacturing design flaw. as a result, the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 62,000.
09/28/201162000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer . the contact stated that the hatch back panel was cracked. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who advised that the failure was a manufacturing design flaw. as a result, the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 62,000. kmj
09/28/201162000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer . the contact stated that the hatch back panel was cracked. the vehicle was taken to a local shop who stated that it was manufacturer design flaw as a result the panel needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 62,000. pm
10/02/201175000
 Very large crack in the rear lift gate from top to bottom like 1 foot long and 3/16 wide close to the ford logo
07/06/201199992
 Tl* the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the rear liftgate was cracked underneath the window and extended to the bottom of the gate on the left side of the emblem. the crack had become progressively worse over time. the dealer informed the contact that the failure was a design flaw and if it was repaired, it would probably crack again. the current mileage was 99,992.
07/06/201199992
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the rear lift gate was cracked underneath the window and extended to the bottom of the gate on the left side of the emblem. the crack had become progressively worse over time. the dealer informed the contact that the failure was a design flaw and if it was repaired, it would probably crack again. the current mileage was 99,992. rvk
07/18/200725000
 Front aluminum hood began paint blistering at about 2 years of ownership. took back to the dealer for repair. two years later, paint blisters return. tsb 6-25-15 issued with painting guidelines but no repair authority. after second occurrence, dealer said no repairs would be made and advised us to pay to replace the hood and paint. this is unacceptable for a $45k car (limited version with all options)
07/06/201199992
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the rear lift gate is cracked from just under the window down to the bottom of the gate. the contact stated the crack is to the left hand side of the emblem and is growing. the dealer informed the contact the failure is a design flaw and if it was repaired, it would probably crack again. the current mileage was 99,992.rl
07/18/200725000
 Front aluminum hood began paint blistering at about 2 years of ownership. took back to the dealer for repair. two years later, paint blisters return. tsb 6-25-15 issued with painting guidelines but no repair authority. after second occurrence, dealer said no repairs would be made and advised us to pay to replace the hood and paint. this is unacceptable for a $45k car (limited version with all options)
10/01/2010
 Noticed a crack running from the bottom of my rear window down to the bottom of the upper portion of the rear lift gate to the left of the ford emblem on my 2005 explorer. crack just appeared for no reason. did not take it in or have it fixed. ford will not hone up to this flaw so i will not pay to have it fixed. i will not buy another ford since they don't stand by their product. i only have 41000 miles on it and i bought it brand new.
08/12/201160010
 On friday, 8/12/11, at approximately 5:30 pm, i noted an approximately 2 long crack on the rear hatch panel, located just above and beside the ford emblem. as of this past monday, 8/15/11, this crack has now extended all the way across the panel. i have had this vehicle for 3 years without any type of body damage or accidents. this is not an area where another vehicle would have hit mine. as far as i know, this just appeared with no reason. i have done extensive research on the internet and noted this is a common problem with this year, make and model of ford and is apparently based on defective glue. i contacted a local ford company and was advised that this is not under warranty.
10/01/2010
 Noticed a crack running from the bottom of my rear window down to the bottom of the upper portion of the rear lift gate to the left of the ford emblem on my 2005 explorer. crack just appeared for no reason. did not take it in or have it fixed. ford will not hone up to this flaw so i will not pay to have it fixed. i will not buy another ford since they don't stand by their product. i only have 41000 miles on it and i bought it brand new.
08/12/201160010
 On friday, 8/12/11, at approximately 5:30 pm, i noted an approximately 2 long crack on the rear hatch panel, located just above and beside the ford emblem. as of this past monday, 8/15/11, this crack has now extended all the way across the panel. i have had this vehicle for 3 years without any type of body damage or accidents. this is not an area where another vehicle would have hit mine. as far as i know, this just appeared with no reason. i have done extensive research on the internet and noted this is a common problem with this year, make and model of ford and is apparently based on defective glue. i contacted a local ford company and was advised that this is not under warranty.
10/01/2010
 Noticed a crack running from the bottom of my rear window down to the bottom of the upper portion of the rear lift gate to the left of the ford emblem on my 2005 explorer. crack just appeared for no reason. did not take it in or have it fixed. ford will not hone up to this flaw so i will not pay to have it fixed. i will not buy another ford since they don't stand by their product. i only have 41000 miles on it and i bought it brand new.
08/12/201160010
 On friday, 8/12/11, at approximately 5:30 pm, i noted an approximately 2 long crack on the rear hatch panel, located just above and beside the ford emblem. as of this past monday, 8/15/11, this crack has now extended all the way across the panel. i have had this vehicle for 3 years without any type of body damage or accidents. this is not an area where another vehicle would have hit mine. as far as i know, this just appeared with no reason. i have done extensive research on the internet and noted this is a common problem with this year, make and model of ford and is apparently based on defective glue. i contacted a local ford company and was advised that this is not under warranty.
01/01/200850000
 The paint on our 2005 eddie bauer explorer is bubbling and peeling off and has been doing this since 2008, but now is getting worse. when at the ford dealer while getting the computer changed wich is another problem with fuel efficiency, we asked about the paint and we were told that there isn't any type of recall. we are also having problems with having to change tires every 15000 miles. thi truck has many defects.
10/01/2010
 Noticed a crack running from the bottom of my rear window down to the bottom of the upper portion of the rear lift gate to the left of the ford emblem on my 2005 explorer. crack just appeared for no reason. did not take it in or have it fixed. ford will not hone up to this flaw so i will not pay to have it fixed. i will not buy another ford since they don't stand by their product. i only have 41000 miles on it and i bought it brand new.
08/12/201160010
 On friday, 8/12/11, at approximately 5:30 pm, i noted an approximately 2 long crack on the rear hatch panel, located just above and beside the ford emblem. as of this past monday, 8/15/11, this crack has now extended all the way across the panel. i have had this vehicle for 3 years without any type of body damage or accidents. this is not an area where another vehicle would have hit mine. as far as i know, this just appeared with no reason. i have done extensive research on the internet and noted this is a common problem with this year, make and model of ford and is apparently based on defective glue. i contacted a local ford company and was advised that this is not under warranty.
01/01/200850000
 The paint on our 2005 eddie bauer explorer is bubbling and peeling off and has been doing this since 2008, but now is getting worse. when at the ford dealer while getting the computer changed wich is another problem with fuel efficiency, we asked about the paint and we were told that there isn't any type of recall. we are also having problems with having to change tires every 15000 miles. thi truck has many defects.
01/05/2011150000
 Crack in the rear hatch panel caused by a defect in the design of the vehicle known by ford motor company but no recall issued.
02/26/201170000
 The ford explorer from the mid-2000s is starting to show multiple defects. ford co. advised owners to report these problems through this complaint form because as of now they are not doing anything to recall the defects. the back panel below the back window cracks vertically right near the ford emblem. some cars have multiple cracks. the majority of this type of ford explorer body type are showing the crack. it happens around the 5 year mark. i believe it is due to freeze/thaw happening at the back window, which then cracks the body. it is an expensive repair job and owners are advised to not even bother because it will happen again. it appears abruptly and is disconcerting to see this suddenly and for no personal reason happen to your car due to bad design. newer explorers have been redesigned so it doesn't happen. the second defect which is happening now to many explorer owners at the 5 year mark is the failure of the heating system. the damper flap starts clicking non-stop and there is no heat. again the repair is expensive because the entire dashboard has to be taken off to repair. these defects are widely discussed on the internet and this is the only real formal way to document them. the ford explorer has proven to be a real lemon, full of design defects and a real disappointment.
04/16/201185000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. while parked the contact noticed a crack on the rear hatch door approximately where the window ends and where the ford symbol was located. the vehicle was not taken to a dealer or mechanic to be repaired. the manufacturer was not contacted. the approximate failure mileage was 85,000. ds
03/26/201178883
 My 2005 rear panel underneath window cracked by the emblem.
11/10/201067000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated there was a crack rear panel below the rear window of her vehicle. the ac heater blend door was broken. there was a loud clicking noise no heat only air was coming out of the vent. the dealer was not contacted. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 67,000 and the current mileage was 100,000...mw
02/01/201180000
 The rear ligate cracked from the bottom up to and around the fordm emblem all the way to the rear window. i called the dealer and was told that this a a very common problem and that there was no recall so i would have to pay for the repair.
11/10/201067000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated there was a crack rear panel below the rear window of her vehicle. the ac heater blend door was broken. there was a loud clicking noise no heat only air was coming out of the vent. the dealer was not contacted. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 67,000 and the current mileage was 100,000...mw
02/01/201180000
 The rear ligate cracked from the bottom up to and around the fordm emblem all the way to the rear window. i called the dealer and was told that this a a very common problem and that there was no recall so i would have to pay for the repair.
11/10/201067000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated there was a crack rear panel below the rear window of her vehicle. the ac heater blend door was broken. there was a loud clicking noise no heat only air was coming out of the vent. the dealer was not contacted. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 67,000 and the current mileage was 100,000...mw
02/01/201180000
 The rear ligate cracked from the bottom up to and around the fordm emblem all the way to the rear window. i called the dealer and was told that this a a very common problem and that there was no recall so i would have to pay for the repair.
02/02/201178000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the back tailgate was cracked. the dealer was contacted who stated there are no recalls or warranty for this failure and contact nhtsa. the manufacturer was contacted who stated there are no recalls or warranty. they offered no assistance for this failure. the failure mileage was 78,000...mw
11/14/201073500
 Paint is peeling from the roof (over the drivers side and front passenger side) in the grooves of the roof. also, the paint is peeling from the top of the liftgate.
12/20/201053000
 Electrical system , body structure , gas pedal
01/26/201187000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the plastic under the tail gate has crack under the rear window. the contact has called the dealer and the manufacturer and they stated to the contact the issue with the cracked tailgate is cosmetic and not consider a safety issue so there is nothing they can do. the contact stated this could potentially lead to a major safety issue if the cracked piece comes off the vehicle will driving and cause crash to other drivers. the failure mileage was 87,000. jo
12/20/201053000
 Electrical system , body structure , gas pedal
01/26/201187000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the plastic under the tail gate has crack under the rear window. the contact has called the dealer and the manufacturer and they stated to the contact the issue with the cracked tailgate is cosmetic and not consider a safety issue so there is nothing they can do. the contact stated this could potentially lead to a major safety issue if the cracked piece comes off the vehicle will driving and cause crash to other drivers. the failure mileage was 87,000. jo
12/20/201053000
 Electrical system , body structure , gas pedal
01/26/201187000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the plastic under the tail gate has crack under the rear window. the contact has called the dealer and the manufacturer and they stated to the contact the issue with the cracked tailgate is cosmetic and not consider a safety issue so there is nothing they can do. the contact stated this could potentially lead to a major safety issue if the cracked piece comes off the vehicle will driving and cause crash to other drivers. the failure mileage was 87,000. jo
12/20/201053000
 Electrical system , body structure , gas pedal
01/26/201187000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated the plastic under the tail gate has crack under the rear window. the contact has called the dealer and the manufacturer and they stated to the contact the issue with the cracked tailgate is cosmetic and not consider a safety issue so there is nothing they can do. the contact stated this could potentially lead to a major safety issue if the cracked piece comes off the vehicle will driving and cause crash to other drivers. the failure mileage was 87,000. jo
01/01/200780000
 Crack in panel beneath rear window. known defect in explorers 02-05. safety issue to other drivers should panel section(s) come off. possible safety issue due to water, dirt getting into any underlying electronic equipment.
12/30/201074000
 After coming back from a vacation to the airport to get my car, i noticed the tailgate of my blue 2005 explorer xlt was cracked all the way through with a 8 long crack from the bottom of the glass to the bottom of the tailgate. after a brief internet search, it turns out that this is a widespread problem that ford knows about, which they refuse to do anything about. i even have a ford full-extended warranty that covers everything and they still refuse to do anything. the repair will be $400-$500, which i am not going to pay for. it's a ford design flaw, they knew it back in 2002, yet continued to produce explorers with the same defect for three or more years. the safety issue is that the tailgate piece is broken and can come flying of the vehicle at anytime.
12/31/2010123560
 I noticed the plastic trim panel below my rear hatch glass cracked in half after getting my truck washed at a touchless car wash!! i've noticed hundreds of complaints across the internet about this, so it doesnt seem this is a random occurance.
12/30/201074000
 After coming back from a vacation to the airport to get my car, i noticed the tailgate of my blue 2005 explorer xlt was cracked all the way through with a 8 long crack from the bottom of the glass to the bottom of the tailgate. after a brief internet search, it turns out that this is a widespread problem that ford knows about, which they refuse to do anything about. i even have a ford full-extended warranty that covers everything and they still refuse to do anything. the repair will be $400-$500, which i am not going to pay for. it's a ford design flaw, they knew it back in 2002, yet continued to produce explorers with the same defect for three or more years. the safety issue is that the tailgate piece is broken and can come flying of the vehicle at anytime.
12/31/2010123560
 I noticed the plastic trim panel below my rear hatch glass cracked in half after getting my truck washed at a touchless car wash!! i've noticed hundreds of complaints across the internet about this, so it doesnt seem this is a random occurance.
12/30/201074000
 After coming back from a vacation to the airport to get my car, i noticed the tailgate of my blue 2005 explorer xlt was cracked all the way through with a 8 long crack from the bottom of the glass to the bottom of the tailgate. after a brief internet search, it turns out that this is a widespread problem that ford knows about, which they refuse to do anything about. i even have a ford full-extended warranty that covers everything and they still refuse to do anything. the repair will be $400-$500, which i am not going to pay for. it's a ford design flaw, they knew it back in 2002, yet continued to produce explorers with the same defect for three or more years. the safety issue is that the tailgate piece is broken and can come flying of the vehicle at anytime.
12/31/2010123560
 I noticed the plastic trim panel below my rear hatch glass cracked in half after getting my truck washed at a touchless car wash!! i've noticed hundreds of complaints across the internet about this, so it doesnt seem this is a random occurance.
12/30/201074000
 After coming back from a vacation to the airport to get my car, i noticed the tailgate of my blue 2005 explorer xlt was cracked all the way through with a 8 long crack from the bottom of the glass to the bottom of the tailgate. after a brief internet search, it turns out that this is a widespread problem that ford knows about, which they refuse to do anything about. i even have a ford full-extended warranty that covers everything and they still refuse to do anything. the repair will be $400-$500, which i am not going to pay for. it's a ford design flaw, they knew it back in 2002, yet continued to produce explorers with the same defect for three or more years. the safety issue is that the tailgate piece is broken and can come flying of the vehicle at anytime.
12/31/2010123560
 I noticed the plastic trim panel below my rear hatch glass cracked in half after getting my truck washed at a touchless car wash!! i've noticed hundreds of complaints across the internet about this, so it doesnt seem this is a random occurance.
12/30/201074000
 After coming back from a vacation to the airport to get my car, i noticed the tailgate of my blue 2005 explorer xlt was cracked all the way through with a 8 long crack from the bottom of the glass to the bottom of the tailgate. after a brief internet search, it turns out that this is a widespread problem that ford knows about, which they refuse to do anything about. i even have a ford full-extended warranty that covers everything and they still refuse to do anything. the repair will be $400-$500, which i am not going to pay for. it's a ford design flaw, they knew it back in 2002, yet continued to produce explorers with the same defect for three or more years. the safety issue is that the tailgate piece is broken and can come flying of the vehicle at anytime.
12/31/2010123560
 I noticed the plastic trim panel below my rear hatch glass cracked in half after getting my truck washed at a touchless car wash!! i've noticed hundreds of complaints across the internet about this, so it doesnt seem this is a random occurance.
11/15/201058000
 2005 ford explorer has paint peeling along the roof rack. the dealership said this is not covered by ford. while researching the problem on the internet, i found that this is a common problem for other owners.
12/14/201060000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the vehicle was parked when he noticed there was a large crack going down the lift gate under the window. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed and was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 60,000. sm.
11/26/2010120000
 Plastic piece under the rear lift-gate window with a large crack across its entire height just to the left of the ford emblem. ford dealership indicated it was just poor engineering and they will not cover or assist with the cost of repair or replacement, nor was there any plan to make available a metal version or properly engineered replacement panel.
10/24/2010
 Rear tailgate window portion with ford logo cracked vertically. i am assuming that this is from regular use since nothing hit the car. i only use the upper portion or the tailgate as if you use the larger portion of the tailgate, anything that you have in the rear of the car falls out. i would think that this issue could cause the rear window to be less than secure.
07/20/201060000
 Hatch panel between window and latch split (cracked) when i closed window after putting in groceries. car has 60,000 miles, called dealer in july to see if a recall had been established due to the fact that i know of 7 other 2005 ford explorers with the exact same crack, happened the exact same way. told me no but sounds like a defect. didn't offer to take care of.
10/24/2010
 Rear tailgate window portion with ford logo cracked vertically. i am assuming that this is from regular use since nothing hit the car. i only use the upper portion or the tailgate as if you use the larger portion of the tailgate, anything that you have in the rear of the car falls out. i would think that this issue could cause the rear window to be less than secure.
07/20/201060000
 Hatch panel between window and latch split (cracked) when i closed window after putting in groceries. car has 60,000 miles, called dealer in july to see if a recall had been established due to the fact that i know of 7 other 2005 ford explorers with the exact same crack, happened the exact same way. told me no but sounds like a defect. didn't offer to take care of.
10/24/2010
 Rear tailgate window portion with ford logo cracked vertically. i am assuming that this is from regular use since nothing hit the car. i only use the upper portion or the tailgate as if you use the larger portion of the tailgate, anything that you have in the rear of the car falls out. i would think that this issue could cause the rear window to be less than secure.
07/20/201060000
 Hatch panel between window and latch split (cracked) when i closed window after putting in groceries. car has 60,000 miles, called dealer in july to see if a recall had been established due to the fact that i know of 7 other 2005 ford explorers with the exact same crack, happened the exact same way. told me no but sounds like a defect. didn't offer to take care of.
02/14/201050000
 The rear panel under my back window is cracked on my 2005 ford explorer. what happens if it falls off and the person behind me has a crash trying to avoid it? will ford take responsibility for their poor engineering? doubt it. this particular complaint is rampant on the internet. i want to make sure the guy behind me can be assured he won't have to play dodge the plastic when it falls off.
04/13/200725000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the paint is peeling from the roof and the roof is starting to rust. the manufacturer stated that this has not been an issue with other vehicles and it is not covered under any warranty. the contact is worried about the long term affects of the rusting. the vin was rejected from the system. the failure mileage was 25000 and the current mileage was 58000.rl
04/13/200725000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the paint is peeling from the roof and the roof is starting to rust. the manufacturer stated that this has not been an issue with other vehicles and it is not covered under any warranty. the contact is worried about the long term affects of the rusting. the vin did not go through at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage was 25000 and the current mileage was 58000.rl
01/25/20101
 Dep crack in the rear hatch *cn
12/30/2009380001
 I have a 2005 ford explorer and noticed that the rear hatch has a crack in it to the left of the ford emblem, the vehicle has only 38,000 miles on it and i think this is a defect in workmanship which ford should cover, but they will not pay for repairs of it at all. further more i will not buy another ford vehicle as the company does not stand behind their products at all. shame on ford and their cheap construction of materials. *tr
11/27/2009401001
 The last week in nov. 2009, i had backed my vehicle into the garage. the next morning, when i came outside, the first thing i can see is the back of my vehicle and a vertical crack on the panel between the top hatchback and the liftgate. the crack was in the center to the left of the ford emblem. the crack was the full distance vertically of the panel. it has since widened. i took my vehicle to my local ford dealership to have it looked at within 3 days of the incident. the next day, i received a call that it would cost me $430 to have fixed. my local dealer said ford would not pay for this incident which was of no fault of my own. i have since researched this problem and found out that hundreds of explorer owners have had this happen to their vehicle and ford won't pay for it nor do a recall to fix the problem. it is obvious that there is a manufacturing problem. since i have experience this problem, i have been very observant of other explorers and 1 out of 3 explorers i see, has the same cracked panel in almost the exact same spot. sometimes i see the crack on the left of the emblem, sometimes the right, but basically its the same vertical crack. *tr
07/15/2009400001
 Have a 2005 ford explorer that just went out of warranty and the back tailgate area cracked by the ford applique. ford will not extend any goodwill repairs and claims it is not a design flaw. i have seen thousands of posts on just one website where others report the same problem and same response from ford. there was not damage or event to the tailgate to cause the crack. just occurred one very hot day while parked in the heat. contacted an auto repair shop to get a quote and they stated that they see this all the time and they can't believe ford doesn't have a recall on this problem. *tr
08/01/200940800
 Tl*the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the ford emblem was cracking on the rear of the vehicle. the crack begins near the rear window and extends all the way down to the ford emblem. the contact will take her vehicle to the dealer for inspection. there were no recalls for this issue. the failure mileage was 40,800.
07/21/2008406001
 Paint is peeling and chipping off along top of roof near front and rear. ford says this happens a lot. they say i am out of warranty, even though evident that this has been occurring a lot longer to my car. *tr
STRUCTURE - BODY - HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
03/01/201058000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. the contact stated that the rear panel on the lift gate was cracked down the side by the ford logo. the dealer stated that the crack was a design flaw on the vehicle. the contact stated that he heard the crack while pulling into his driveway at 5 mph. the failure mileage was approximately 58,000. the current mileage was approximately 61,000.
01/21/201079000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. while the contact was examining the vehicle she noticed that there was a large crack on the panel under the rear window. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 79000.
STRUCTURE - BODY - HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE - HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
08/21/20061926108/01/2006
 Dt*: the contact stated while driving various speeds, the lift gate ajar light illuminated and seconds later the lift gate opened. the vehicle was inspected by a dealer who realigned the lift gate glass strut. afterwards, while driving low speed, the entire lift gate opened without warning. the dealer instructed the contact to use a bungee cord to lock the door as a temporary repair. the vehicle was returned to the dealer who installed a lift gate dual lock assembly. there was a nhtsa recall, # 04v442000, regarding the structure. the vehicle was not included due to the vin. the manufacturer was alerted.
STRUCTURE - BODY - TAILGATE
12/11/2011870001
 While sitting in my driveway in a parked position, the upper tailgate panel, directly to the right and running right next to the oval ford emblem, a 1/4 wide crack that runs vertically on the back panel appeared. this upper panel of the tailgate also opens up just the window part of the tailgate. the tailgate on this explorer can open up two ways. one way being the entire tailgate is lifted so that it is open like for a dog to jump in and is then level with the interior back part (with the seats down), and it also opens up with just the window part which is where the crack is. this crack is so wide that it allows moisture, snow, water, rain, salt, etc. to seep into the components which house the electrical and tail light, stop lamps and turn signals. it also compromises the body structure and safety features. there are thousands of complaints of this happening as i did a google search. this is clearly a defect in manufacturing and/or parts or components and because of the large number of complaints, the manufacturer should issue a recall notice. at the time of this occurrence, my back tailgate was facing west with the sun shining on it. could it have something to do with the components shrinking and expanding? i have pictures of this issue that i can e-mail to you.
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS
03/30/1990
 Noticed the back panel of my 05 explorer was deeply cracked. did some research to find that this is a defect of many explorers. i don't have to money to fix it and shouldn't have to since i did nothing wrong.
06/16/201018000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2005 ford explorer. while examining the vehicle the contact noticed a crack on the panel on the rear tailgate of the vehicle. the vehicle has not been diagnosed and there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages was 18000. bml
11/27/2009401001
 The last week in nov. 2009, i had backed my vehicle into the garage. the next morning, when i came outside, the first thing i can see is the back of my vehicle and a vertical crack on the panel between the top hatchback and the liftgate. the crack was in the center to the left of the ford emblem. the crack was the full distance vertically of the panel. it has since widened. i took my vehicle to my local ford dealership to have it looked at within 3 days of the incident. the next day, i received a call that it would cost me $430 to have fixed. my local dealer said ford would not pay for this incident which was of no fault of my own. i have since researched this problem and found out that hundreds of explorer owners have had this happen to their vehicle and ford won't pay for it nor do a recall to fix the problem. it is obvious that there is a manufacturing problem. since i have experience this problem, i have been very observant of other explorers and 1 out of 3 explorers i see, has the same cracked panel in almost the exact same spot. sometimes i see the crack on the left of the emblem, sometimes the right, but basically its the same vertical crack. *tr

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