Ford Motor Company has announced a significant safety recall affecting approximately 85,238 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles. The recall stems from a serious concern: these vehicles may be at risk of premature engine failure, which could potentially lead to under-hood fires.

This issue affects models from 2020 to 2022 that are equipped with 3.3L Hybrid and Gas engines. The recall highlights a manufacturing defect that could pose substantial safety risks to law enforcement personnel and potentially to the public if not addressed promptly.

Ford Explorers Affected by the Recall

This recall specifically targets Ford Explorer models equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility package. The affected vehicles were manufactured between November 10, 2018, and August 1, 2022. It’s crucial to note that the production of these vehicles doesn’t follow a sequential VIN order, which means owners can’t rely solely on their VIN to determine if their vehicle is included in the recall.

To check if your vehicle is affected, Ford recommends using their online recall lookup tool, contacting their toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332, or reaching out to your local Ford dealer. Dealers can access specific vehicle information through Ford’s Online Automotive Service Information System (OASIS) database. If you’re a law enforcement agency or individual who has purchased one of these vehicles, it’s essential to verify whether your Explorer falls within the recall’s scope.

What Affected Ford Explorer Owners Should Know

The recall addresses a critical safety issue where affected vehicles may experience premature engine failure. This failure can result in significant amounts of engine oil or fuel vapor being released into the engine compartment. The real danger lies in the potential for these fluids to accumulate near ignition sources, which could lead to an under-hood fire, cause localized melting of components, or produce smoke.

Ford has identified several warning signs that owners should be aware of:

• Unusual engine noises: Pay attention to loud, unexpected sounds, particularly any metal-to-metal clanking.
• Sudden loss of power: Be alert for any unexpected reduction in engine torque while driving.
• Visible smoke: Watch for any smoke emanating from the engine compartment.

If you notice any of these symptoms, Ford strongly advises taking immediate action. Safely pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible, turn off the engine, and exit the vehicle. Do not attempt to continue driving, as this could increase the risk of fire or further damage to the engine.

It’s important for owners to understand that while the risk of an incident is relatively low (Ford estimates only 1% of affected vehicles may have the defect), the potential consequences are severe enough to warrant immediate attention. Stay informed about any communications from Ford regarding this recall and follow their instructions carefully to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

Ford’s Planned Remedy for the Recall

Ford is actively working on a comprehensive solution to address this safety concern. While the final remedy is still in development, the company has outlined their planned approach:

• Software Update: Ford anticipates that dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. This update will include new diagnostics specifically designed to detect connecting rod bearing failures, which are believed to be at the root of the issue.
• Engine Inspection: As part of the recall service, dealers will perform a thorough inspection for any unusual engine noises that might indicate potential problems.
• Engine Replacement: In cases where a connecting rod bearing failure is detected, Ford plans to replace the entire engine long-block. This is a significant repair that underscores the seriousness of the issue.

Ford expects to have the necessary parts and software available in the second quarter of 2025. In the meantime, the company will be sending out initial notification letters to owners. These letters will inform owners about the ongoing investigation and advise them on safety precautions to take until the full remedy is available.

It’s important to note that all recall-related repairs will be performed at no cost to vehicle owners. Ford will provide more detailed information about scheduling these repairs once the remedy is finalized and ready for implementation. Owners are encouraged to keep their contact information up to date with Ford to ensure they receive all important communications regarding this recall.

How California’s Lemon Law Can Protect Affected Owners

For California owners of affected Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, the state’s Lemon Law provides an additional layer of protection. This law can be particularly helpful if your vehicle continues to experience issues even after receiving the recall repair.

Under California’s Lemon Law:

1. If your vehicle has a substantial defect that the manufacturer fails to repair after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund.
2. The law covers vehicles still under the manufacturer’s original warranty.
3. The defect must significantly impact the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.

The Lemon Law can be especially beneficial in situations where:

• Your vehicle has spent an extended time in the repair shop
• The same issue persists despite multiple repair attempts
• The defect significantly compromises your vehicle’s safety or functionality

It’s important to keep detailed records of all repair attempts, including dates, descriptions of the problems, and copies of work orders. These records can be crucial if you need to pursue a Lemon Law claim.

If you find yourself in a situation where your Ford Explorer continues to have problems after the recall repair, consider reaching out to a law firm that handles Lemon Law cases. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation under California law.

Remember, manufacturers are required to cover attorney fees for successful Lemon Law claims in California, which means you can seek legal help without worrying about upfront costs.

Get Lemon Law Help With Your Ford Explorer

At Consumer Action Law Group, we understand the frustration and concern that comes with ongoing vehicle issues, especially after a recall repair. If you own a Ford Explorer vehicle and are still experiencing mechanical problems even after getting it repaired, it’s time to take further action. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Document Everything: Keep good records of all repairs, including dates, problem descriptions, and work order copies. This documentation is crucial for building a strong Lemon Law case.
2. Consult with Our Team: If problems continue, reach out to us at Consumer Action Law Group. Our legal team is well-versed in California Lemon Law and can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
3. Free Case Evaluation: We offer free initial consultations to assess your case. This allows you to understand your options without any financial commitment.

Don’t let a problematic vehicle compromise your safety or peace of mind. If your Ford Explorer continues to have issues after the recall repair, contact Consumer Action Law Group today. Our dedicated team is ready to review your case and guide you through the process of seeking fair compensation.