I was driving, coming just off the highway in my 2000 Ford Explorer and there were puffs of smoke coming from the steering column. I researched some of the recalls at Ford and this problem was recalled on some other vehicles of the same model, but not my VIN #. the recall was for the multifunction switch in the steering column. No replacement parts have been installed, I will bring to dealer for diagnosis.

- Kensington, MA, USA

The contact states there is NHTSA recall campaign 00V072000 concerning the electrical system. This vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall, but it is not included in the recall due to VIN. Updated 1/11/2006 - the windshield wipers stopped working during a snow storm. The dealer installed a new GEM module. The consumer requested reimbursement from the manufacturer.

- Cottage Grove, MN, USA

Vehicle caught on fire while idling in the driveway for 20 minutes. The local volunteer fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. The insurance company had the vehicle towed and inspected. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical. Dealer and manufacturer were notified.

- Sault Sainte Marie, MI, USA

Numerous electrical problems with 2000 Ford Explorer XLS. Wipers sometimes do not work, the dshboard gauges sometimes do not work (fuel, oil and temp). It has been to the dealers numerous time both in and out of warranty. This actually started when the vehilce was less than two months old. Never has a dealer been able to diagnose the problem. Very frustrating.

- Littleton, CO, USA

When using the left turn signal, the signal stops working & smoke comes from the steering column around the hazard light button and from around the turn signal arm. The smoke also causes visability problems. This needs to be taken care of before there is a fire and/or death and Ford has more lawsuits on their hands!

- Hobart, IN, USA

When using turn signal smoke comes from the steering column.

- Lima, OH, USA

Lights for radio and clock have gone out- periodically come on for a few minutes and then disappear. Lights are off 99% of time- for weeks at a time. This has been happening for two years. It was recommended I replace the radio at my expense, but I have heard of a number of other Explorer owners with same problem- I think it is a defect of an expensive radio.

- Fort Collins, CO, USA

Consumer lost power to windshield wipers, windows, and interior lighting. The consumer indicated that every two weeks the vehicle loses power to the wipers, power windows and interior lighting. While driving during a thunderstorm, the vehicles wipers did not function which almost caused an accident.. the consumer searched the NHTSA website and found a recall (00V072000) concerning an identical issue with a module (GEM) which controls the wipers, windows, etc. The consumer's vehicle was not included in the recall due to VIN.

- Washington, DC, USA

The vehicles electrical system has failed. The dealer stated that the multi function switch was the cause of the failure. The harness wires all shorted and the consumer noticed smoke coming from the dash. The power windows failed. The speedometer and gauges failed. The air conditioner failed. The radio blinkers and lights failed. A burning smell came from the dash frequently. The consumer request reimbursement.

- Antioch, CA, USA

The windshield wipers, power windows, dome lights, and warning indicators stopped operating due to a malfunction in the generic electronic module. The dealership was helpful but was unable to obtain the parts for about a week.

- Litchfield, MN, USA

2000 Ford Explorer. On several occasions smoke comes from steering column when using left turn signal. Turn light would freeze on and acrid smoke come from around hazard light switch area. Then will be ok for a while and could not recreate for mech but still happens on occasion unexpectly. Where there is smoke there is fire.

- Bath, ME, USA

While the consumer's wife pulled into the driveway, the gas pedal became stuck and caused her to run into the side of the house. The collision caused $18,000 worth of damage to their home. Since the vehicle had been in the repair shop 8 times. Every once in a while the rpms revved up causing the engine to race. There were problems with the tail lights. The dealer/mechanic stated that they could not find anything wrong with the vehicle, so they could not repair it. After almost having an accident, the vehicle was taken to the Chevrolet dealership and an electrical problem was found and the dealership repaired the vehicle.

- Clio, MI, USA

The vehicle experienced problems with the lower ball joints and smoke emitted from the steering column, the dealer replaced the relay switch. There were problems with the left turn signal indicator. Intermittently without warning when the brakes were fully applied the lights stayed on. When the brake was disengaged, the indicator signaled again, in spite of replacement the problem the continued intermittently, however the dealer stated there was no problem.

- Unknown, DC, USA

Consumer stopped vehicle at a traffic light and engaged the turn signal when smoke suddenly began emitting from the steering column into the passenger cabin. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed the problem as an electrical wiring malfunction.

- Dresher, PA, USA

Our 2000 Ford Explorer, has for the second time burned through the spark plug wires. The first time the dealer replaced the damaged wire, but did not indicate that any other problems existed this past week it occurred again but the dealer indicated that because of the failure of the spark plug wire, fuel has now backed up into the top side of the engine, and significant repairs and the removal of the fuel must take place. It seems this condition could cause an engine compartment fire very quickly. Considering the reaction of the vehicle would indicate the need for a tune up only. I contacted Ford Motor Company and they said it was a maintenance problem and not a Ford problem. Never had a vehicle burn through spark plug wires before and I don't see how a 3 year old vehicle would experience this problem twice. It appears to be something you should look into before a fire does occur and cause injury or death.

- Acworth, GA, USA

While driving at 55 mph eletrical system completely went out. Dealer notified. Please provide additional information.

- Austin, TX, USA

Consumer states when the engine is shut off, the door locks remain locked.

- Abilene, KS, USA

Electrical system is causing intermittent operation of interior lights/ instrument panel functions, and windshield wipers. Dealership examined vehicle, but could not determine cause of problem. Vehicle was not affected by recall campaign 00V072000/ electronic functions. Please provide any additional information / documentation.

- Vallejo, CA, USA

Consumer was traveling about 65 mph on highway, and without prior notice windshield wipers stopped working intermittently. Dealership was aware of problem. Also, when consumeer started vehicle he had to shake shift selector in order for it to crank. Filures occur sporadically.

- Tuscaloosa, AL, USA

Vehicle is experiencing possible electrical problems, the keyless entry failed, the wipers work without the vehicle being turned on, when the wiper is turned on the cd player will quit working, and the lights dim.

- Northfield, IL, USA