The contact owns a 2000 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that as he opened the rear door of the vehicle, he noticed the top hinge was severely fractured from the frame. The vehicle was not taken to an authorized dealer or mechanic for diagnosis of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 120,000.

- Chicago, IL, USA

I own a 2000 Ford sport Explorer. My seat on the driver side broke a bolt. The same bolt that is on recall from the 2002 Ford sport Explorer. If I had a 2002 then it would be covered by a recall, but since it is a 2000, it is not covered. The problem costs $200 (199.19) to get mine fixed. I think this is unfair since obviously it is a problem that Ford Motor Company has already issued a recall on for a new model. My seat would not sit up straight, and it is the exact same bolt according to a service employee at North central Ford in dallas, tx. Recall number concerning this bolt is 3V281000.

- Plano, TX, USA

Consumer stated that the top hinge of driver's side door separated from the body of vehicle. Consumer also had problems with the steering.

- Enfield, CT, USA

The upper hinge on the rear passenger door presents a danger to a person entering the front door. I was asked to examine an exemplar vehicle, especially the rear door hinges while the front door was open. This is in response to a reported incident in Louisiana. A child was injured by the upper hinge of the rear door while entering the driver's door. The child's mother opened the rear door as the child climed into the vehicle. Evidently the child was using the exposed rear door hinge as a grip. The hinge appears to be the same model as used on the Ford Ranger pickup truck. The "stop" which limits the door's movement is a piece of metal that extends past the pin on the hinge. The "stop" and the portion of the hinge which is fastened to the frame have the shape of scissors. There is no body panel to limit access to the rear door's hinge from the opening to the front of the passenger compartment. The hinge if used on the front doors of a vehicle is safe and effective. The hinge used in an unprotected area presents a hazard. Please investigate and take appropriate action. Sincerely, douglas fleming P.E.

- New Orleans, LA, USA