Investigation PE99072: 1991–1994 Ford Explorer

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Nov 30, 1999

Closed

Apr 14, 2000

Model years

1991–1994

Subject

Spare tire winch cable

Component: Body and structure

Summary

From the beginning of the 1991 model year production until the middle of the 1994 model year production, ford used a galvanized steel cable to lift and hold in stored position, the explorer spare tire.on may 19, 1994, based on the results of ford durability testing , ford changed to a 4.00mm stainless steel cable.there have been over 100 incidents in which the original galvanized steel cable failed allowing the spare tire to drop from its rear storage well.one of these incidents caused a following vehicle to be involved in a collision and on six other occasions the wheel made contact with following vehicles, resulting in property damage.

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

• 1994 Ford Explorer1,207 complaints
• 1993 Ford Explorer939 complaints
• 1992 Ford Explorer633 complaints
• 1991 Ford Explorer609 complaints