Ford Offers Free Exhaust-Fume Inspections on Explorer SUVs

By Mike Colias 

Ford Motor Co. is offering a free inspection and repair on up to 1.4 million late-model Explorer SUVs in North America following complaints about exhaust fumes leaking into the cabin, though the auto maker says the condition doesn't pose a safety risk.

The fix follows U.S. safety regulators' decision in July to expand an investigation into potential carbon-monoxide leaks cited by Explorer owners. In a statement Friday, Ford said its own investigation showed carbon monoxide in the vehicles don't exceed normal levels.

"However, for our customers' peace of mind, Ford is offering a complimentary service that reduces the potential for exhaust to enter the vehicle," the company said.

Ford has faced similar complaints from law-enforcement agencies that use specially modified police versions of the SUV. Some agencies stopped using the vehicles, claiming fumes made officers sick and even led to crashes.

In July, the auto maker said it found holes and "unsealed spaces" in the backs of some police Explorers and offered to repair all of those versions for free. At the time, Ford blamed the problem on aftermarket work done to the police vehicles and said civilian owners had no reason to worry.

Ford dealerships will reprogram customers' air conditioners, replace parts in the liftgate and inspect certain seals to ensure fumes don't seep into the vehicle, the company said. Repairs will begin Nov. 1 and be offered through 2018.

The fix is the latest in a series of costly quality problems that have dented Ford's profits. The company booked a $295 charge in the first quarter related to a faulty door latch. Second-quarter profits were hit by $142 million in costs to fix problems on Transit vans.

A company spokeswoman said Friday that Ford won't disclose the expected cost of the exhaust repairs.

Write to Mike Colias at [e-mail]

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

October 13, 2017 19:02 ET (23:02 GMT)

Copyright (c) 2017 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.