DETROIT — Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than a quarter-million Explorer SUVs in the U.S. because they can roll away unexpectedly while shifted into park.
The recall covers certain 2020 through 2022 Explorers with 2.3-liter engines, as well as 3-liter and 3.3-liter hybrids and the 3-liter ST. Also included are 2020 and 2021 Explorer Police hybrids and those with 3.3-liter gas engines.
Documents posted Friday by U.S. safety regulators say that a rear axle mounting bolt can fracture and cause the drive shaft to disconnect. If that happens, the SUVs can roll away even if they are placed in park gear, without the parking brake on.
The documents say Ford has 235 warranty claims due to the problem. The company says it knows of no crashes or injuries.
Depending on the model, dealers will replace a bushing and the axle cover, or they will update electronic parking brake software. Owners will be notified by mail starting June 6.
Earlier this month, Ford issued two recalls covering over 737,000 vehicles to fix oil leaks and trailer braking systems that won't work.
The oil leak recall includes the 2020 through 2022 Ford Escape SUV and the 2021 and 2022 Bronco Sport SUV with 1.5-Liter engines. A housing can crack and oil can leak onto engine parts, which can create a fire hazard.
According to Reuters, Ford received reports of at least eight fires that may be related to the issue, but no injuries or crashes were caused.
Dealers will replace the housing if needed.
The trailer braking recall includes F-150 pickups from 2021 and 2022, as well as the 2022 F-250, 350, 450 and 550. Also covered are the 2022 Maverick pickup, and Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs.
A software error can stop trailers from braking, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford received at least 67 reports of issues that could be caused by the error, but no injuries or crashes, Reuters reported.
Dealers will update brake control software. Owners will be notified of both recalls starting April 18.
