The group wants Ford to issue a full recall for all 2011-2017 Explorers, stating, “With something this potentially dangerous, the responsible step is a full recall and if Ford will not do it, NHTSA should step in.”
Ford responded to the demand by saying, “While we continuously evaluate our processes for potential improvements, we are confident in our current methods for quickly identifying and addressing potential vehicle issues.”
More than 1.35 million Explorers have been sold since 2011, when the SUV was redesigned and the exhaust problems first started being reported. The move comes as the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) continues to investigate complaints of fumes and carbon monoxide leaking into the passenger cabins of police and consumer models of the Explorer.
Ford initially focused repair efforts on police versions of the Explorer, but the company has continued to receive complaints from consumers about noxious exhaust fumes and symptoms such as nausea, headaches and drowsiness.
The automaker says it will inspect and repair the vehicles, if necessary, free of charge. Ford maintains the vehicles are safe, but agreed to make the repairs to put customers at ease.
“We know that some of our customers do have some exhaust and carbon monoxide concerns,” said Elizabeth Weigandt, Ford’s safety communications manager. “There is a NHTSA investigation on the matter so we know there’s some awareness. These vehicles are safe. We have not found a safety issue here.”
Source: USA Today