Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General Information > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method procedure. When an oil leak is present at a turbocharger oil supply or drain tube, remove the affected oil tube and inspect for damage, and replace the O-ring seals, pedestal gasket or oil tube as required. Refer to WSM, Section 303-04. For c
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2014 Ford Explorer engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2014 Ford Explorer have filed 187 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 47,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
187
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Explorer | 9 |
| 2011 Explorer | 59 |
| 2012 Explorer | 59 |
| 2013 Explorer | 191 |
| 2014 Explorer (this page) | 187 |
| 2015 Explorer | 204 |
| 2016 Explorer | 336 |
| 2017 Explorer | 216 |
| 2018 Explorer | 88 |
2fires
4injuries
What stands out
Owners have filed 187 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA engine complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 4 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2013-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.5L twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P013A and/or P013C stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to an improperly welded exhaust Y-pipe. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the exhaust Y-pipe.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.5L twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P013A and/or P013C stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to an improperly welded exhaust Y-pipe. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the exhaust Y-pipe. Follow the Service Procedure to correct the condition on vehicles that meet all of the following criteria: *2013-2019 Explorer *3.5L Ti-VCT engine *Illuminated MIL with only DTCs P013A and/or P013C
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Customer Satisfaction Program 19N05: Certain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles - Carbon Monoxide Concern
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. When specified in the WSM, the turbocharger oil supply filter must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2014 Ford Explorer's engine system has chronic issues across multiple subsystems. Owners report timing chain and camshaft position sensor failures starting around 80,000 miles, with check-engine codes (P0016) and flutter sounds on startup, costing $4,000 to repair. Ford dealership mechanics confirm this is a known, common failure—yet no recall exists, though the same engine in F-150s qualified for recall.
Water pump failures appear at 55,000–160,000+ miles. Ford mounted the pump inside the engine, requiring 14-hour replacements at $2,500 labor plus $400 parts. Owners find coolant leaking into oil, causing engine seizure or requiring full replacement. One owner's engine failed twice.
The most widespread complaint involves exhaust fumes leaking into the cabin—sulfur/rotten-egg odors on acceleration, uphill drives, or towing. Owners report carbon monoxide readings of 50–60 PPM inside vehicles after Ford's "Customer Satisfaction Program" repairs failed. Multiple families experienced headaches, nausea, dizziness, and in one case, a child became unresponsive (suspected CO poisoning). Ford issued a 2016 technical service bulletin but dismissed complaints as "normal," and police departments reported the same defect. Two fires also occurred—an AC fan seized and caught fire, and an engine fire at highway speed.
Throttle bodies fail and recur post-repair. One owner's engine stalled while towing; another seized after a curb impact with metal shavings later found in the oil pan. Owners who maintain service records see failures anyway with little warning.
Same Ford Explorer engine reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2013 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Timing Chain/Camshaft Position System Failure
Engine check light illuminates with codes pointing to timing chain or camshaft position sensor problems (P0016). Owners report flutter sounds on startup and engine nearly stalling while driving. Ford dealership mechanics acknowledge this as a known, common issue on the 2014 Explorer. Repair costs quoted at $3,995–$4,000. Some failures occur with no warning and may render vehicles undrivable.
When: Around 80,000–136,000 miles; can occur early in vehicle life
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light; Flutter/popping sound on startup; Engine hesitation or nearly stalling while driving; Loss of power while driving; Hard-stored diagnostic codes (P0016 camshaft position)
Codes mentioned: P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement, cam phaser and VCT solenoid replacement; quoted at $3,995–$4,000 labor and parts combined. Some owners decline repair due to high cost relative to vehicle value.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued despite owner reports that Ford mechanics confirm this is a known, common failure pattern; similar failure exists on F-150 with same engine family that qualifies for recall
Exhaust Fumes Entering Cabin (Exhaust Leak/Design Defect)
Owners report strong sulfur/rotten-egg smelling exhaust fumes entering the cabin during acceleration, highway driving, or sustained high RPM (especially going uphill or towing). Fumes occur with AC on, heat on, or windows up; occurs at various mileages from near new (less than 2 hours post-purchase) through 30,000+ miles. Multiple owners report symptoms: headaches, nausea, dizziness, eye burning, and in severe cases, carbon monoxide poisoning levels detected. Owners cite Ford TSB 12-12-4 and TSB from 2016 addressing this issue; however, repairs attempted (rubber plugs, vent line additions, muffler replacement, rubberized sealant spray) are largely ineffective. One owner reports carbon monoxide sensor readings of 50–60 PPM in cabin after Ford's 'Customer Satisfaction Program' was performed; other vehicles tested read 0 PPM. Police departments have complained about the same issue.
When: Can appear within weeks/months of purchase; reported from 10,000 miles onward through vehicle life; some became worse over 3+ years of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Strong sulfur or 'rotten egg' exhaust smell in cabin; Smell worsens during hard acceleration, high RPM, uphill grade, or towing; Smell present with AC on (fresh or recirculate mode), heat on, or no climate control; Headaches and migraines (multiple occupants affected); Nausea and dizziness; Eye burning; Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms in severe cases (lethargy, drowsiness, weakness); Child becoming unresponsive in vehicle (suspected CO poisoning)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have attempted: adding rubber plugs to liftgate, installing vent lines toward rear, replacing muffler, spraying rubberized sealant on exhaust underside, resetting HVAC, installing tailgate plugs, installing tape on rear body module. Owners report these measures are ineffective or temporary. Quoted repair costs $1,100–$1,500. Warranty often does not cover; TSB fixes reported as not working on prior model years (2013).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford issued TSB 12-12-4 and TSB from 2016; closed complaint cases stating odor is 'normal'; offered 'Customer Satisfaction Program' (not widely publicized); Customer Satisfaction Program in Canada but not available in US at time of complaints; declined recall despite acknowledged awareness; class-action lawsuit filed by consumers
Water Pump Failure/Coolant Leak
Water pump fails, often causing coolant to leak into engine and oil. Ford's design places water pump inside engine rather than externally, making replacement labor-intensive (up to 14 hours). Failures reported from 55,000–160,000+ miles. Early warning signs may be absent; leak discovered during routine dealer visits or when coolant level drops below recommended line. One owner's engine seized after violent bump; dealer found metal shavings in oil pan later. Another owner had engine fail without warning at 72,000 miles; second engine replacement was required when failure recurred.
When: 55,000–160,000+ miles; can occur without early warning
Symptoms owners cite: Low coolant warning light or message; Coolant leaking onto ground; Temperature gauge showing overheating; Engine overheating without warning lights illuminated; Check engine light (in some cases); Coolant level abnormally low; Coolant visibly leaking from water pump; Engine seizing (loss of motive power)
Repairs/costs cited: Water pump replacement; labor quoted at $2,500 (up to 14 hours work); parts $400; total approximately $2,900. Repair requires significant engine disassembly due to internal pump design. Owners report high expense relative to vehicle value. In at least one case, technician error during recall repair led to timing chain and water pump replacement both needed; manufacturer refused to cover.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall in US (Canada has Customer Service Program for this issue); manufacturer offered no assistance despite acknowledged awareness; one dealer informed owner that engine could fail with no warning; owner declined expensive repair
Engine Stalling/Loss of Motive Power (Various Causes)
Engine stalls or loses power while driving with little or no warning. Causes identified include coolant leaking into engine (head gasket failure), blown head gasket, throttle body failure, water pump failure causing engine damage, and metal fragments in oil pan (possibly from internal damage). Vehicles lose motive power on roads, requiring towing. Some restart after stalling; others do not. Owners report engines seizing or refusing to restart.
When: 55,000–170,000+ miles; can occur suddenly without warning symptoms
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalling without warning light; Loss of motive power while driving; Vehicle jerking and hesitating to shift; Engine failing to accelerate despite depressed accelerator; Puddle of water under engine (coolant leak); Check engine light (in some cases); Engine seizing (refusal to restart or crank); Misfiring/popping sounds before shutdown
Repairs/costs cited: Repairs vary: head gasket replacement, engine replacement (in severe cases), throttle body replacement, water pump replacement. Costs not always specified; some owners unable to afford repairs after diagnosis. One owner had engine replaced but same failure recurred shortly after; vehicle not repaired second time.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in some cases but offered limited or no assistance outside of warranty
Throttle Body Failure
Throttle body fails, causing vehicle to hesitate, fail to accelerate, and illuminate service engine light. Dealer replaces throttle body, but failure recurs. Owner reports dealer installed defective throttle body against customer protest and warned that without design change, it would fail again—which it did.
When: 41,000 miles at first failure; recurred shortly after dealer repair
Symptoms owners cite: Service engine/terrain management system fault warning lights illuminated; Vehicle failing to accelerate (at 10 MPH); Hesitation in gear shifting; Reduced responsiveness to accelerator input
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body replacement; dealer installed replacement part but owner alleges it was defective. Failure recurred post-repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; no recall or design change issued
Combustion/Fire Events
Two separate incidents reported: (1) AC fan clutch bearing stuck, causing fan to catch fire, burning plastic and damaging radiator while vehicle idle; (2) Vehicle fire on driver's side near engine during low-speed driving, diagnosed as mechanical error by fire department. Both fires occurred at mileage above 100,000 miles.
When: 120,000 miles (AC fan fire); 145,000 miles (engine fire)
Symptoms owners cite: Smoke coming from under hood; Burning plastic smell and falling burning plastic; Visible fire under vehicle or near engine; Severe damage to radiator and engine components
Repairs/costs cited: AC fan fire: radiator damaged, leaking; not repaired by owner. Engine fire: vehicle deemed totaled by fire department.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in at least one case; referred owner to NHTSA Hotline
Cracked Exhaust Manifold
Exhaust manifold develops cracks, allowing exhaust fumes to enter cabin and causing clicking noise in engine. Owner's wife reported headaches and fatigue coinciding with failure. Repair cost quoted at $1,100.
When: Timing of failure not specified in narrative; identified after owner's wife reported health symptoms
Symptoms owners cite: Clicking noise; Headaches and fatigue (occupants); Exhaust fumes odor in cabin
Repairs/costs cited: Exhaust manifold repair; quoted $1,100. Owner reports this is a well-known issue with 1.3 million similar reports.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford refused to help with repairs; no recall issued
Engine Seizure (Post-Incident)
One owner's vehicle struck curb at rear wheel during evasive maneuver. Shortly thereafter, engine rattle and smoke odor developed; engine seized and refused to start. Dealer could not explain cause. Towing service and insurance investigator agreed violent curb impact did not cause seizure. Subsequent inspection found metal shavings in oil pan.
When: Immediately after curb impact; unknown if impact-related or coincidental
Symptoms owners cite: Engine rattle after curb impact; Faint smoke smell; Engine seized (refusal to start/crank); Metal fragments found in oil pan
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired. Dealer and insurance investigator unable to determine root cause. Owner suspects loose engine components from impact.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer found no rational explanation; no manufacturer response documented
Post-Recall Repair Failure (Timing Chain/Water Pump)
During recall repair work (suspension recall 21V537000), dealer performed coolant system flush and mass air flow sensor service. Post-service, mechanical fluid leaked onto ground. Diagnosis revealed timing chain and water pump required replacement, and engine needed flushing. Dealer and manufacturer both declined to cover repair, attributing it to technician error during recall service.
When: 56,556 miles at time of recall repair
Symptoms owners cite: Mechanical fluid leaking from vehicle; Engine requiring flush; Timing chain failure; Water pump failure
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement, water pump replacement, engine flush required. Dealer declined to cover; manufacturer declined to force dealer coverage. Vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer informed contact they could not force dealer to repair; referred to NHTSA
Synthesized from 187 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Exhaust smell in passenger compartment while driving; similar to sulfur. Feel safety at risk due to smell causing headaches/nausea; concerned about carbon monoxide or other hazardous materials. Vehicle brought to dealer on 12/13/2021 and issue confirmed. Dealer aware of similar complaints across this vehicle type; TSB is available, so Ford is aware, however not catagorized by Ford as a…
Upon hard acceleration my 2014 Ford explorer has exhaust fumes enter into the vehicle. I tested with both the ac on recirc and recirc off and it happens either way. I have already had the vehicle in the Ford shop with this problem and a tsb was performed with no improvements. *js
Had engine trouble with your 2014 Ford Explorer?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2014 Ford Explorer?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 187 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 114 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 27,000 and 91,000 miles, with the median around 47,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 27,000; a quarter make it past 91,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2014/Ford/Explorer.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.