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Motor Vehicle Safety
Information: 1-800-333-0371
TP 14665 E
Vehicle Safety Advisory
V 2016-01 E
October 2016
Transport Canada is currently investigating a rear suspension problem with 2011-2015 Ford Explorer sport-utility vehicles. The Department has learned that, in certain driving conditions, if driven on gravel roads, mud and dirt may accumulate in the rear suspension toe link attachment point. If mud is allowed to accumulate over time, it may induce excess stresses in the suspension. If the vehicle is driven in this condition, the stresses may result in a suspension failure. A rear suspension failure can lead to a loss of vehicle control and a crash.
If you frequently drive on gravel roads or in off-road conditions, Transport Canada recommends cleaning the underbody and suspension thoroughly and regularly with concentration on the rear suspension points as highlighted in the photographs below.
If you have concerns or have experienced a rear suspension failure, please contact Transport Canada’s Defect Investigations Section at 1-800-333-0510.
Caption: Photo #1 (top right): Overall view of right rear quarter panel of exemplar vehicle
Photo #2 (top left): View of right rear wheel
Photo #3 (bottom left): View of right rear wheel well (wheel removed)
Photo #4 (bottom right): Close-up on the suspension toe link attachment point