Ford will recover 252,936 The Explorer manufactured for the 2020-2022 model years to replace a bolt used to attach the rear axle to its subframe. This pin can be secure, allowing the drive shaft to disconnect from the axle assembly, allowing the vehicle to roll away while parked if brake is not applicable.
The recall applies to the Explorer Police FHEV 2020-2021, Explorer Police 3.3L and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3 L HEV and 3.0L ST. Explorer ST owners in particular should take note. Ford said in support documents sent to NHTSA.
“Affected vehicles are built with a 3-point shaft design,” the Ford report said. “On some equipment, the rear axle’s horizontal mounting bolt can break. The drivetrain’s torque through the actuator causes the gear shaft to rotate towards the subframe, impacting the force. bending up the rear axle bolt. Peak torque usually occurs during the launch event.”
“The joint design is uncertain with respect to the peak shaft input torque and variation in manufacturing. The main collector does not have enough bearing area for the maximum joint load. This leads to deformation of the bearing area, increasing stress. bending stress on the bolt, which can lead to fatigue failure,” says Ford.
Signs of fatigue damage include loud grinding noises, chain clattering or rattling from the rear of the vehicle. The remedy for this problem is twofold. Customers will receive a software update that allows the parking brake to be applied automatically when the vehicle is parked. Owners of some of the earlier examples (or any that show signs of fatigue) will also receive new mounting parts for the rear axle.
Dealers will be notified starting April; Owners will receive notice by June 10.
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