Ford recalls over 238,000 Explorers in the U.S. due to potential rear axle bolt failure, posing a risk of power loss or rolling away while parked.
This recall follows investigations into previous recalls in 2022 and this year, where repairs were found to be ineffective.
The affected models are certain Explorers from the 2020 through 2022 model years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the rear axle bolt’s fracture can lead to driveshaft disconnect, increasing the risk of accidents.
Here’s what Ford plans to do: replace the rear axle bolt and a rubber cushion called bushing. Additionally, they will inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole and replace it if necessary. Owners will receive notification letters starting from November 6.
In documents, Ford acknowledges 396 reports of rear axle bolt failures, but less than 5% resulted in power loss or rolling while parked. They have not received reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue.
NHTSA began investigating in June based on complaints about power loss caused by rear axle bolt failures, despite previous repairs made through recalls. Ford’s software update to automatically engage the parking brake did not address the axle bolt failure.
Before this recall, Ford had been replacing axle bolts under service campaigns.
Previous Ford recall regarding parking brake issues
Ford recalled approximately 870,000 F-150 pickup trucks in July due to a faulty parking brake that could activate unexpectedly, affecting the driver’s control. The company resolved the issue by installing protective tie straps, tape wraps on the brake wiring, and replacing the rear axle wiring harness to prevent chafing and circuit grounding.
According to company documents, there were 918 warranty claims and three field reports of wire chafing in North America, with 299 indicating unexpected parking brake activation, 19 of which occurred during driving. There were no reported accidents or injuries caused by this problem.
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