2011 Explorer AC TSB help

[VGISMO]

Have an issue with 2011 Explorer. The AC doesn't blow when idle when car first starts but is fine driving. Engine temp doesn't change.

Found TSB-14-0019 online which describes the exact issue but car is out of warranty and I want to go to dealer with at least some clue as to what the fix is. This is our 4th Explorer and the first time I've had to go to dealer for a fix after warranty!

Appreciate any help. thanks

 

[FordService]

Have an issue with 2011 Explorer. The AC doesn't blow when idle when car first starts but is fine driving. Engine temp doesn't change...

Hi VGISMO,

Have you headed in to the dealer yet? How many miles are on your Explorer? Let me know and I'll see what I can do to help.

Crystal

 

[VGISMO]

Had an appt for tomorrow but I just called and they do not have the cooling fan in stock. I have the TSB details now and it basically says reprogram PCM and/or replace fans.

No A/C after car idles for 5 mins. First 5 mins plenty of cold air. A/C returns when moving. Engine temp gauge never moves no matter how long A/C is off.

Exp has 67k.

There is definitely an issue with the cooling fans on these Explorers but I have never received a letter like some have on this site. Disappointed.

 

[peterk9]

There was a Customer Satisfaction Program 12B36 that involved reprograming the PCM. It was free up to May 2013 I believe.

See also; http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=411239&highlight=customer+satisfaction

There are also a thread on TSBs listed in the 'Sticky' section.

Peter

 

[VGISMO]

Never received the letter and when I called Ford yesterday they said I didn't qualify for the reprogramming based on build date, model, etc.

A new fan set is $155 but I am wondering if I need to still have the PCM flashed to a newer version or if they fixed the contacts issue with the new part? If I remember the reprogramming was just to run the fans more so that the contacts would not contaminate.

Side note. Can I ask a dealer to perform a TSB or do they have to run a diagnostic first?

 

[peterk9]

A TSB is usually only carried out if the problem for which is was issued actually exists. Just because a vehicle is covered by one doesn't necessarily mean it needs to be done if there is no evidence of the problem.

Peter

 

[VGISMO]

Came back from vacation and the explorer starts to overheat. Finally get to a dealer and have them look at. Out of warranty so charge me just to look at it even though I tell them about the TSB and hand them a print out of it. The reprogram the fans and then tell me I need new ones. Want to charge me $170 for the fans and 1.5 hours labour. I tell him that his own parts counter has the fan for $150 and the TSB says it should only take .8 hours. He says "I can't go by what Ford says it will take I have to rely on my book".

Obviously this dealer isn't going to get my business but Ford really needs to deal with these fans. They are all bad not just the ones they decided to send letter to. I know the old drill about hang onto your receipt but how many times does that really happen?

Crystal I appreciate your offer of help but not sure what you can do as it seems Ford is not paying much interest to these fan issues.

v

 

[peterk9]

A TSB is only carried out when and if required as indicated in my post #6 . It is only done without cost as long as the vehicle is under either the factory or extended warranty. The customer satisfaction program (12B36) to reprogram the PCM was free up to May 1st, 2013. I had no cooling fan issues with my 2011 Ltd. By the sounds of it, you didn't take out the Ford ESP so I think you are on your own as far as the costs go.

Peter

 

[VGISMO]

Sorry what I meant was why did they have to perform a diagnostic if the symptoms I had matched the TSB? I understand I am on the hook for the cost but it seemed like a cash grab to run diags but I guess they need to get paid for their work. Also was not informed of the customer satisfaction program so that one doesn't apply.

As for the ESP. I am in Canada and planned to purchase from US dealer until Ford stopped allowing them to sell to Canada. An ESP in Canada is $3200 while the same one in the U.S. is $1300. This is my four Explorer and highest non-wear related (brakes,exhaust) repair I ever had was $400. These fans will cost me $700. Guess I have been lucky and it's time to pay the piper!

 

[peterk9]

I only took out a 4 year ESP from the dealer at $1175 including rental. I was leasing so I didn't price a longer one. I know there are Ford dealers that sell online. The one I looked at after the fact will only sell to owners in Ontario.
You're still ahead money wise if this is the only issue you will have while owning it.

Peter