Ford Recalls 2023 Explorers for Loose Steering Knuckles

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling some 2023 Explorer vehicles because the right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut may be loose or missing, according to document made public by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today. Lincoln Aviator models made at the same plant, Chicago Assembly, are not affected by this safety defect. (AutoInformed:Ford Recalls 1.88 Million Explorer SUVs for Trim Detachment)

A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can cause improper tire alignment, resulting in a steering pull or require increased steering effort. Moreover, the brake hose may contact the tire and become damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak and a loss of braking. Either of these circumstances can increase the risk of a crash.

Chronology

• On 9 January 2024, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opened an investigation into a report of a missing fastener attaching the knuckle-to-strut on a 2023 MY Explorer vehicle. The Plant Vehicle Team (PVT)at the Chicago Assembly Plant (CAP) identified this issue during a daily warranty claim review.
• Ford confirmed the primary double spindle fixture tool which secures the right front knuckle-to-strut fasteners was offline for repairs for 121 Explorer rotations on 19 December 2023. Of the 121 Explorer rotations, Ford confirmed the fasteners were in place for 2 vehicles and 1 vehicle was fixed at the dealer. CCRG confirmed that this backup tool process did not affect Aviator vehicles because those vehicles do not utilize the same knuckle-to-strut joint and a different process is used to secure the right front corner.
• As of 24 January 2024, Ford is aware of one warranty claim related to this defect. Ford has not identified any VOQs (vehicle online complaint to NHTSA or the maker from an owner) related to this potential safety problem.
• On February 2, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee reviewed the concern and approved a field action. Ford is not aware of any reports of accident or injury related to this defect.

Dealers will inspect the fasteners, and tighten or install them as necessary, free of charge as required by US safety regulations. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed 4 March 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 24S04. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov about NHTSA recall 24V091.