For approximately two weeks prior to December 5th, 2004, the heat element in my 2000 Ford Explorer driver seat would become painfully hot under the left leg near the torso to the point where it needed to be manually turned off each time. It was turned off as it became painful, and we were concerned we would become burned and would the seat catch on fire. My other concern for this is someone, such as a diabetic, with neuropathy wouldn't feel the intensity of the heat and become burned. 2) approx 2 weeks after the initial event the seat light will come on but no heat is produced. Why did it take 2 weeks for the element (assumed) to burn out? 3) the car is scheduled to go to an independant mechanic as I do not trust Ford to do the right thing. The dealer is not concerned that my driver airbag light goes on and off at will for days or weeks at a time. They recalled the 98 and 99 models for a tensioner pulley problem and issued a service bulletin for the '00 but the dealer wants to charge $500 for the repair......most defects I took in for warranty repair remain unfixed, (mostly electrical in nature) including a rear wiper that rarely goes on, radio stations and clock display that occasionally can be seen and a rear passenger door handle that after 5 attempts (Ford went against their engineer recommendations to do a recall) will unlock with power lock but the unsuspecting or in a hurry will just about rip a hand off to get it open.

- Batavia, IL, USA

Dealer replaced the serpentine belt, but an engine noise was still heard while driving. Also, windshield was leaking when raining or washing the vehicle.

- Pompano Beach, FL, USA

Vehicle has always had a pulsating in the brake pedal since about 7000 miles. This time the brake master cylinder failed. Upon inspection by the dealer he stated that I needed to replace brakes, rotors, ( both of which have been replaced at least twice before ) master cylinder, serpentine belt and tensioner and have complete brake system flush. All in the span of 3 years. This vehicle has also had the ball joints replaced and control arms as well. Multiple occurences of the same symptoms.

- Brunswick, OH, USA

Tensioner was under warranty - but damage is not ($1K) Ford is not helping.

- Mooresville, NC, USA