In a recent announcement, Ford has highlighted a critical concern affecting a specific subset of its 2023 Ford Explorer vehicles. The issue revolves around the right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut, which may either be loose or missing altogether. This problem can have significant repercussions on the vehicle’s performance and safety.

A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can lead to improper tire alignment, potentially causing steering pulls or requiring increased steering effort. Moreover, the proximity of the brake hose to the tire in this compromised setup poses an additional risk. If the hose comes into contact with the tire, it may sustain damage resulting in a brake fluid leak, ultimately leading to a loss of braking ability. These circumstances significantly elevate the likelihood of a crash, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Upon receiving a report of a missing fastener,Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) initiated an investigation at the beginning of January 2024. The Plant Vehicle Team (PVT) at the Assembly Plant promptly identified the issue during a routine warranty claim review. Further analysis revealed that the primary double spindle fixture tool responsible for securing the right front knuckle-to-strut fasteners was offline for repairs during a specific period. This temporary setback affected a limited number of vehicles, with Ford confirming that out of 121 Explorer rotations, only one vehicle was found to have a missing fastener. Nonetheless, the company is taking proactive steps to address the concern.

While Ford has not identified any vehicle owner questionnaires (VOQs) related to this condition, it’s crucial for affected vehicle owners to remain vigilant. Signs of potential issues include a visually detectable tire leaning inward at the top or changes in steering effort or pull. Additionally, if there are any indications of tire contact with the strut or spring seat, such as abrasion damage or a burning smell, prompt action is necessary.

In response to this concern, Ford has announced a field action to have the affected vehicles inspected. Dealers will thoroughly examine the fasteners and take appropriate measures, such as tightening or installing them as needed, to rectify the issue. Affected vehicle owners can reference Ford’s recall number 24S04 and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number 24V-091 for further information and to schedule inspections.

Importance of Keeping Records for Lemon Vehicles:

Maintaining detailed records of repairs and maintenance for your vehicle is essential, especially if you suspect that your vehicle might be a lemon. Lemon laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, they provide recourse for consumers who have purchased a defective vehicle that the manufacturer has failed to repair adequately within a reasonable number of attempts.

Keeping comprehensive records serves several purposes. Firstly, it provides documentation of the issues you’ve experienced and the attempts made to address them, which can be crucial evidence if you need to pursue legal action under lemon laws. Additionally, it helps establish a pattern of recurring problems, strengthening your case for a vehicle replacement or refund.

Furthermore, detailed records can expedite the repair process by providing technicians with essential information about past issues and repairs. This can help diagnose and resolve problems more efficiently, minimizing inconvenience for you as the owner.

In summary, maintaining thorough records of repairs and maintenance is not only good practice for vehicle ownership but can also be invaluable if you find yourself grappling with a lemon. By documenting issues and repairs diligently, you empower yourself to assert your rights as a consumer and seek appropriate recourse if necessary.