Explorer

Make
Ford
Segment
SUV

Ford has just announced that it needs to repair its Police Interceptor Utility vehicle (the police version of the Ford Explorer) because of potential carbon monoxide poisoning. And to be clear, owners of the civilian Explorer are not affected by this recall. So you're all cool. As for law enforcement officers who drive the popular Interceptor Utility, Ford states that it's found holes and unsealed spaces in the back of some of these vehicles, all of which had equipment installed after leaving the Ford factory.

Specifically, the holes are the result of routinely installed emergency lighting, radios and other equipment. You see, installers have to drill wiring access holes into the rear of the vehicle, but those holes have to be sealed upon completion. And therein lies the problem. If they're not sealed properly, which is evidently happening, an opening where exhaust could enter the cabin can occur. Ford states it will cover all of the costs for this specific repair in every Interceptor Utility that's been affected, regardless of model year, mileage or any other aftermarket modifications. Specifically, Ford will check and seal off the rear of the vehicle where exhaust can enter.

It will then add a new air conditioning calibration that brings in more fresh air during the heavy acceleration involved with police-style driving. Lastly, they'll check for engine codes that could indicate a damaged exhaust manifold. Ford didn't make clear whether or not there've been any cases related to potential carbon monoxide poisoning, but it's cool how Ford is handling this potentially very serious situation. Everything free of charge, no matter how many add-ons the vehicles have. That's customer service, and America's Finest deserve it.