Investigation EA02011: 1995 Ford Explorer

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jul 2, 2002

Closed

May 21, 2003

Model years

1995

Subject

Safety belt assembly failure

Component: Seat belts

Summary

Odi received 18 consumer complaints and ford identified another four reports associated with the alleged defect.most of the complaints indicate inability to latch the driver seat belt buckle caused by a broken latch release spring.none of these 22 reports resulted in any injuries or crashes.no complaints have been received in the past 6 months.ford conducted life-cycle testing on 6 field sample buckle assemblies.the results of that testing demonstrated that the tested buckle assemblies could be expected to operate properly beyond the expected life of the vehicle.based on the limited number of reports and complaints received, and a declining complaint trend, this investigation is closed.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect exist does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see additional information

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 1995 Ford Explorer843 complaints