This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
Serpentine belt tensioner failure due to prematurely worn bushing. Problem is well known among dealership mechanics. This part controls the tension on the single serpentine belt which operates the power steering pump (may result in loss of ability to steer upon failure), the ac compressor, the water pump (may cause vehicle to overheat upon failure) and the alternator for the vehicle's electrical system.
When driving through a small snow drift, on an isolated country road, snow dislodged the serpentine belt, thus disconnecting power steering, power brakes, the cooling system and discharging the battery. Luckily a passing snow plow operator assisted us or this could have had more tragic results. We have asked Ford engineers to assist with a solution. Skid plates are not made for this vehicle nor can they apparently be manufactured because of the nature of the suspension system. While our local dealer is helping to problem solve, we continue to have no reply nor interest from Ford, who claims that any sollution would be considered an accessory or improvement rather than a repair. We feel that since this vehicle is advertised as a rugged off-road four-wheel drive vehicle that is depicted blasting through deep snow drifts on commercials, it probably shouldn't break down and strand passengers when the truck is confronted with normal winter driving conditions. Further, it shouldn't leave the passengers stranded without power, engine cooling, power steering and brakes.
While driving in snow conditions fan belt fell off due to snow hitting the underbody of the vehicle, allowing all electrical functions to stop. Private mechanic replaced the belt after dealer was unable to/refused to cover cost.
Bolt that holds the power steering snapped in half. After snapping in half, vibrated out towards power steering pump pulley, causing the pulley to lock up, and breaking the power steering pump bracket. Thi S caused the main drive belt to come off, leaving consumer without brakes or steering.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Southgate, MI, USA