Not new vehicles but our streak continues. Sadly, not fixed with previous campaigns. Third time a charm. Ford proud!
Ford Motor Company is recalling select 2011-2013 Ford Explorer models due to a defective cross-axis ball jo--t (CABJ) replacement part. This follows two previously issued recalls related to rear suspension toe links in 2011-2017 and 2013-2017 Explorer models.
The defect: in affected vehicles, the replacement cross-axis ball jo--t could seize and result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
The hazards: in affected vehicles, the seized cross-axis ball jo--t could result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link, which can lead to a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.
Components: replacement cross-axis ball jo--t.
Affected vehicles: select 2011-2013 Ford Explorer models with build dates through September 3rd, 2012, that are registered, have ever been registered, or were sold in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.
Number of vehicles affected: 126,033 vehicles.
2011 = 39,747
2012 = 41,572
2013 = 44,714
The fix: dealers will conduct a torque inspection of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary.
Owners should: wait for communications from Ford, which will begin on November 1st, 2021. The Ford reference number for this recall is 21S43.