2014 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 1,678 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 6th highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2014 reports, 32 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 38 people were injured and 2 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, body, roof and pillarsJan 19, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
Campaign 24V031000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearJul 15, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Exposure to road salt can cause the cross-axis ball joint to corrode and seize, resulting in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle, and replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall numbers 16V-245, 19V-435, and 20V-675. Certain vehicles previously repaired will need to return for the new remedy. An interim notification letter notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2022. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S32.
Campaign 21V537000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearMar 12, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin that were previously repaired under a prior recall numbers 16V-245 or 19V-435. The outboard section of a rear suspension toe link may fracture.
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle attached to the rear suspension toe link and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S62.
Campaign 20V675000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftNov 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive. The support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may fail.
The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8, 2020. A second letter will be mailed when parts become available in January 2021. The recall began February 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S63.
Campaign 20V692000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearJun 10, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S17.
Campaign 19V435000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, hubAug 28, 2017
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.
A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify the distributors of the hubs specifying that they are to only be used on drive axles. It is believed that none of the hubs were purchased from Ford dealers for the incorrect application. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 17E048000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearApr 26, 2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured January 17, 2014 to May 31, 2014. The affected vehicles may have improperly welded rear suspension toe links that may fracture.
A fracture of the rear suspension toe link may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S18.
Campaign 16V245000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
258 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 5, 2023
Under moderate to heavy acceleration exhaust fumes are pouring into the cabin. The harder you accelerate the more you smell. Gives me a headache every time.
Engine, Jul 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the engine coolant temperature warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park the vehicle at a friend's residence nearby and added coolant to the engine. The contact stated that the failure recurred. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the radiator and the water pump to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 132,720.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the temperature gauge increased without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the water pump failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for service. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the water pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
Engine, Jul 18, 2023
Every time while accelerating and RPMs reach above 2500 the cab of the vehicle fills with an odor . After doing a lot of research we have come to realize it is carbon monoxide. There are several open law suits and complaints about this already. When we purchased the vehicle in May of 2021 it was taken to the Ford dealership and they told us everything in the vehicle was fine. The car is available for inspection at any point. No warning lights or anything have come on at all!
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 28, 2023
Ever since I purchased my 2014 Ford Explorer, I noticed a foul smell inside the vehicle when accelerating. It seemed fine when driving normally, but when accelerating into traffic or whenever RPMs are increasing, it’s definitely noticeable. At first I thought it wasn’t that big of a deal, until my young step-son was in the passenger seat complaining about how he felt nauseous out of nowhere. So I decided to do a little research and found a TON of articles including the ones in these two links!: https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/ford-explorer-lawsuits-exhaust-leak-carbon-monoxide/ https://6abc.com/amp/ford-explorer-suv-sick-dizzy/3507986/
Engine, Jun 26, 2023
While driving my 2014 Ford Explorer from South Florida to Millegville Georgia the high temp Light came on and the engine slowed on I-16. Managed to get off The Interstate at Macon Ga. Almost caused accidents in traffic. Finally got to Ford dealer said water pump failed like so many others. $2600 estimate. End of my trip, had to rent car to get home car Still in shop in Georgia waiting for repairs.
Electrical system, Engine, Jun 14, 2023
UNKNOWN
Steering, Engine, Jun 3, 2023
I was driving my car stopped at a gas station went to leave and had no power steering. Replaced the power steering angle sensor still didn't fix the problem had to have the rack and pinion replaced all in cost almost $3000. Now my car is leaking coolant from the motor where the water pump is located
Engine, May 15, 2023
Ford built the motor with a water pump when it leaks leaks right into the crank case where the oil is so the motor seizes up and that’s what happened to my car now my car is shot
Engine, Apr 12, 2023
IN 11-2022, (NOVEMBER 2022), I NOTICED NO HEAT IN CABIN AND AFTER FURTHER INVESTIGATION, FOUND LOW COOLANT IN THE COOLANT RESERVOIR. I ADDED COOLANT BUT STARTED NOTICING COOLANT LEAKS ON DRIVEWAYS. HAD VEHICLE CHECKED BY FORD DEALER, WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT NEW, AND REGULARLY SERVICED; AND WAS TOLD THAT THE WATER PUMP INSIDE THE 3.5L ENGINE IS BAD WITH A COST OF $4,900 TO FIX. IT APPEARS THAT THERE ARE NUMEROUS FORD EXPLORER VEHICLES FROM 2011 - 2019 WITH THE 3.5L ENGINE WITH THIS ISSUE. REQUEST INVESTIGATION AND RECALL BY FORD.
Engine, Mar 21, 2023
When turning on the rear Auxililary climate control the cabin of the vehicle had a large amount of exhaust smell enter the cabin.
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 20, 2023
Driving my explorer and the water pump went bad. Got overheat warnings and now I find this happens to all of these engines. A class action suit has been filed. The cost to repair is nearly $4000 for an issue does knew about it? Not recalling and fixing these is negligent and dangerous.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 10, 2023
We purchased a 2014 Ford Explorer Police utility from the Raleigh Surplus in the summer of 2021. We also had another vehicle, so rarely drove this Explorer until last summer 2022 when we had to sell one vehicle, therefore putting us driving the Explorer only. I had a failed surgery and was no longer able to drive, so that was another reason the Explorer didn't get driven much the first year. Since last summer my husband has been very sick and in and out of doctors and pulmonary specialist. We have tried to figure out what happened all of a sudden. After talking with his pulmonary specialist and her doing numerous blood work, we came to the conclusion it must be the Ford Explorer causing him sickness. He has been put on nighttime oxygen and has lost a great deal of weight, and become very sick with shortness of breath and now with neurological issues. His recent blood work revealed carbon monoxide levels of 11.8 %. After a recent weekend admission to the hospital, the pulmonary doctor orders were to get rid of this Explorer. We need a vehicle to drive, because this is our only way of transportation. I called corporate and got a case number of CAS-41523358 and was told to call a Ford dealership and get the vehicle there asap. I called Alex at 919-366-8000 Leith Ford, the closest dealership and he said I need to get in touch with wford@ford.com . I did 2 weeks ago and he is ignoring me. I also get nausea and dizziness and headaches in the vehicle. My daughter drove it one night and became sick as well. Most of all my husband is still very sick from this vehicle. He almost fell asleep at the wheel! Luckily I was there to alert him! He Never ever falls asleep at the wheel!
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 1, 2023
Water pump leakage
Engine and engine cooling, Feb 17, 2023
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard a popping sound and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle however, the engine shut off. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, she noticed that coolant was leaking onto the ground. The oil warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the rotor fractured, and coolant leaked into the engine and the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Engine, Jan 31, 2023
My ford Explorer has a 3.5L V6 motor. This motor was designed with the water pump installed in the crank shaft. As a result of this when the water pump fails and leaks coolant can leak into the motor and mix with the oil costing thousands of dollars in damages.
Engine and engine cooling, Jan 17, 2023
My vehicle gradually started getting louder and at the same time we started to notice exhaust fume smell in the vehicle. I had taken it to the dealership and and a different mechanic for a confirmation. They both explained the exhaust is coming apart at the seam. Not due to rust. Just the exhaust on both sides are doing the same thing. Since the first visit with them, I had taken it back again when we noticed it even more and it just keeps getting worse. It'll eventually come off and continue to allow fumes in the car until replaced. I called Ford and they said they did have a customer satisfaction program to replace it, but it was only for police cars and it expired anyway. I explained this is a huge concern for the fact we inhale the fumes in the car and that it can just come apart at any moment, driving. No help at all from Ford.
Engine, Dec 15, 2022
Water pump has a leak need to be replaced
Engine, Engine and engine cooling, Nov 17, 2022
The Exhaust manifold/catalytic converter is cracked causing excessive exhaust fumes which leak into the cabin area exposing passengers to carbon monoxide.
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 18, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle started to shake and the engine overheated. The check engine warning light and the temperature gauge warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to coast the vehicle off the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to Midas where it was diagnosed again that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was guaranteed a 2-year warranty, but no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.
Engine, Oct 5, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was stalling and while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The vehicle lost motive power and failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that she received assistance from a bystander to move the vehicle to the side of the roadway and noticed a puddle of water coming from underneath the engine. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while driving up a hill, the vehicle was stalling and the parking brake was activated. The vehicle lost motive power and failed to restart. The vehicle was left on the side of the roadway to be towed; however, the contact's husband was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 13, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH and other speeds, the vehicle overheated. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that when the vehicle was parked, the hood was extremely hot to the touch. There was also an odor of antifreeze and gasoline coming from under the hood. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
Tires, Engine and engine cooling, Jul 7, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power with the TPMS warning light illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle was leaking coolant. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 29, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and making a left turn, the low coolant warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park on the side of the roadway. The contact stated that her husband later added coolant to the reservoir. After starting the vehicle, the warning light was off. The contact stated that her husband saw coolant leaking from the water pump. The contact was able to drive to her residence. The contact called multiple independent mechanics and made them aware or the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 27, 2022
The contact owns a 2014 Ford Explorer. The contact stated the vehicle was at the dealer for an air bag customer service repair when a leak in the water pump was discovered. The contact stated that the water pump needed to be replaced; however, the water pump was not replaced due to the cost. The contact stated that the dealer informed him that the engine could fail. The contact stated that he had not experienced a failure but was concerned that a failure could occur with no warning as the issue was not discovered until the vehicle went to the dealer for an air bag customer service program. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, no assistance was offered as there was no recall. The contact stated that he researched the failure and found a Customer Service Program in Canada for the issue but not in the United States. The approximate failure mileage was 105,000