All Investigations » Investigation EA05015

  Defect Investigation of Windshield Leak Causes Electric Failures

Investigation of Windshield Leak Causes Electric Failures

Subject: Windshield leak causes electric failures
Components covered:
  • Electrical system
  • Exterior lighting
  • Windshield wiper/washer
Investigations Summary: This investigation was opened on Oct. 13, 2005. It was closed on Dec. 6, 2006. Consumers alleged that when it rained or snowed, water leaked into the vehicle around the windshield. Moisture flowing through the seal that surrounds the front windshield follows a path through the seal into the generic electronic module (gem) and fuse box, and may cause the electrical components in the vehicle to malfunction. Overall, the number of reports alleging wiper failures and lighting failures is relatively small. In reviewing a large sample of the 1503 complaints for windshield leaks, odi's analysis reveals that 0. 04% of the total vehicle population reported improper windshield wiper operation and 0. 01% of the total vehicle populationreported lighting failures. The warranty claims reveal that approximately 0. 10% of the population has been serviced for wiper malfunctions and 0. 08% for lighting malfunctions as a result of windshield leaking. Odi's analysis of the field performance statistics and available technical information has not established that a defect trend exists in the malfunction, failure or intermittent operation of the front windshield wipers or headlights. See the attached summary report.
Vehicles Affected by this investigation:
  • 1999 Ford Expedition
  • 2000 Ford Expedition
  • 2001 Ford Expedition

    Other investigations related to Ford vehicles

  Defect investigation of door latch failures

  Defect investigation of door latch failure

  Defect investigation of front brake hose failure

  Defect investigation of wheel separation

  Defect investigation of door latch failure