Ford’s line of pursuit-rated SUVs is facing significant challenges. On Friday, the automaker announced a recall of its Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles due to potential engine failures and fire hazards. As a result, 85,000 police SUVs will be off the streets, possibly remaining out of service until the following year.
The Associated Press reports that the recall affects Ford Explorer models from 2020 to 2022 equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility package. These SUVs typically feature a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid powertrain, but a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is also available. However, the recall specifically involves the 3.3L variant.
The AP further explains that if an engine failure occurs prematurely, it could lead to significant amounts of engine oil or fuel vapor being emitted under the hood. If this oil or vapor accumulates near ignition sources in the engine bay, it poses a risk of igniting a fire.
Ford advises operators to stop driving the vehicle if they hear unusual engine noises, experience a decrease in torque, or observe smoke coming from the engine compartment—though this notice comes rather late in the process. They should park the vehicle safely and turn off the engine, which should remain off until the second quarter of 2025, when replacement parts and software updates are anticipated to be ready. This timeline may be frustrating, especially since it is currently mid-August.
As of July 9, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 13 incidents of under-hood fires associated with 3.3-liter engines manufactured prior to June 2, 2022. All incidents involved Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; no standard Explorers were impacted. Ford has not disclosed any details regarding potential support for police departments facing shortages due to this issue.
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