Ford recalls 1.2M Explorers over suspension fracture

Failure of the rear toe link can cause the vehicle to lose control.

Ford has issued a few recall campaigns affecting the Explorer, F-150 and other vehicles.

The company has discovered a problem that can cause the 2011-2017 Explorer's rear suspension toe link to fracture if the vehicle is exposed to frequent full suspension travel.

"A fracture of a rear toe link significantly diminishes steering control, increasing the risk of a crash," the company warns.

At least one customer reported a failure, which led to the vehicle hitting a curb, though no injuries have been associated with the condition. The campaign affects approximately 1.2 million vehicles in the US.

Ford is also rolling out revised transmission software for 123,000 F-150 pickups equipped with a six-speed automatic gearbox. The recall population had already received new powertrain control module software, but the programming may not prevent the transmission from an unintended downshift into first gear.