Introduction:
Ford Police Interceptor vehicles are designed with upgraded components to withstand the demands of daily law enforcement use. However, even these robust vehicles are not immune to issues. Recently, Ford recalled the Explorer Interceptor due to prematurely failing engines, which could potentially lead to fires. This recall affects 2020-2022 Ford Explorer vehicles with the Police Interceptor Utility Package and the 3.3-liter V6 engines, including hybrids, totaling 85,238 vehicles. While Ford has stated that no accidents or injuries have been reported due to this issue, it is important for law enforcement agencies to be aware of the potential risks.
### 1. Recall Details:
The recall impacts 2020-2022 Ford Explorer vehicles with the Police Interceptor Utility Package and the 3.3-liter V6 engines, including hybrids, totaling 85,238 vehicles. Ford has acknowledged the potential risks associated with prematurely failing engines that could release oil and fuel vapors, increasing the risk of fire. While there have been no reported accidents or injuries related to this issue, it is crucial for affected vehicles to be inspected and repaired promptly to avoid any potential hazards.
### 2. Causes of Engine Failures:
Engine failures in the affected vehicle population are attributed to seized bearings causing a piston and rod failure. The leaking oil and other flammable materials under the hood could accumulate near ignition sources, heightening the risk of smoke, fire, and damage. Ford has identified multiple potential causes for the seized bearings, including foreign debris in the bearing, materials failures, lubrication issues, and more. Due to the variety of possible causes, the automaker has not pinpointed a single root cause for the bearing failures in these vehicles.
### 3. Proposed Fix:
Ford believes that updating the powertrain control module (PCM) could address the issue of connecting rod failures. The updated software would include diagnostics for detecting rod bearing failures, and technicians would inspect the engine for any noise or damage indications. In cases where a rod bearing failure is confirmed, Ford will replace the long block. However, the downside for Police fleets is that parts for replacements are not expected to be available until the second quarter of the following year, potentially causing inconvenience for affected departments.
### 4. Precautionary Measures:
In light of the potential risks associated with the failing engines, Ford advises customers to park and shut off their vehicles if they hear an unexpected noise or smell smoke. This precautionary measure aims to prevent any potential escalation of the issue and reduce the risk of fires. Law enforcement agencies with affected vehicles should educate their staff on these warning signs and ensure that proper protocols are in place to respond promptly to any indications of engine failure.
### 5. Impact on Police Fleets:
The delayed availability of replacement parts for the affected vehicles could pose challenges for police departments with a significant number of Ford Police Interceptor vehicles in their fleet. The potential downtime and logistical issues associated with the recall may disrupt regular operations and require alternative arrangements for maintaining law enforcement capabilities. Police departments should proactively communicate with Ford and schedule inspections and repairs in a timely manner to minimize disruptions and ensure the safety and functionality of their fleet vehicles.
Overall, while Ford Police Interceptor vehicles are built to withstand the rigors of law enforcement use, the recent recall underscores the importance of regular maintenance and prompt response to any identified issues to ensure the safety of officers and the public. Law enforcement agencies should stay informed about recalls and take proactive steps to address any potential risks to their fleet vehicles promptly.