2019 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Structure is the leading concern among 298 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 18th highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 2 involved a crash. 6 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, bodyJul 14, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 28, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S54. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Campaign 26V448000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearFeb 20, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture.
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the toe links, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S08. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 21V537. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 25, 2026.
Campaign 26V101000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterJan 15, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed February 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. This recall expands previous recall number 25V685.
Campaign 26V012000 on NHTSA.gov
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
Structure, bodyMay 5, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will install push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips and roof rail covers, as necessary, free of charge. The interim owner notification letter was mailed on June 22, 2021. Owner notification letters (remedy available) were mailed on October 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S22.
Campaign 21V316000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, front assembly, reclinerAug 28, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
Campaign 19V633000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: other or unspecified
47 reports, newest first. Show all
Other or unspecified, Sep 28, 2026
The cowl grille/top trim has become extremely brittle and deteriorated. The material is breaking apart simply from being touched, and pieces are coming loose and flying off while I’m driving. the entire edge of the cowl is crumbling and separating from the vehicle. This appears to be material deterioration rather than normal wear. I’m concerned that additional pieces could detach while driving and that the cowl may no longer properly protect/seal the area beneath the windshield.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Sep 28, 2026
We have contacted Ford Motor Company previously about this issue. The leather dash pad on our Explorer is detached near the windshield and is rolling up back towards the interior of the vehicle. The dealer has inspected (Deacon Jones, Goldsboro, NC) and has confirmed the issue. Original quote to fix was approximately $15,000.00, reduced later by FMCO to $6000.00. We have attempted to find local upholstery shop to repair, but they will not touch it. The pad underneath the leather is all white and causes a debilitating glare/reflection on the windshield when driving towards the sun. Please review my previous filing with FMCO and help us with this issue. I note that online, several others are experiencing this same issue. This is developing into a severe safety issue.
Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Back over prevention, Aug 22, 2026
I was driving down the road when the warning lights suddenly came on, and the vehicle would not allow me to accelerate. As a result, my vehicle slowed unexpectedly, and another vehicle nearly struck me from behind.
Other or unspecified, Apr 2, 2026
Vehicle was stolen, sold, and relisted for sale. Open Recalls on vehicle.
Other or unspecified, Mar 18, 2026
I am writing to formally report an issue regarding Safety Recall 24S02 on my 2019 Ford Explorer, which is incorrectly shown as completed by Cornerstone Ford in Elk River, Minnesota. This recall involves the exterior A‑pillar trim on 2011–2019 Ford Explorer vehicles and is a documented Ford safety campaign (24S02 / 24V031). According to Ford’s records and Cornerstone Ford’s reporting, Recall 24S02 is flagged as completed on my vehicle on Jun 2025; however, the actual recall repair has never been performed. It appears only on an estimate repair invoice from July 2025, and I have text message correspondence from the dealer dated December 19, 2025, stating that the part had arrived, yet no recall work was scheduled or completed. Notice on Invoice (attached): [Primary]: S100 - RECALL RECALL RECALL - C/S: NO REMEDY AVAILABLE YET-24S02 EXTERIOR A PILLAR APPLIQUE INSPECTION I am unable to take it to a different dealership because it has been flagged as completed. I contacted Ford's Customer service, and they are taking the dealership's word.
Other or unspecified, Feb 26, 2026
Remedy not available in timely manner. This came out in 2024. Issue should be fixed and parts available. I am experiencing the wind noice due to this. Manufacturer Recall Number 24S02 NHTSA Recall Number 24V031 Recall Status Recall Incomplete, remedy r yet available
Other or unspecified, Aug 5, 2025
It has been a year and a half since Ford recalled a part and they have yet to replace that part. It’s a year overdue from the timeline they claimed to be ready by.
Other or unspecified, Jul 25, 2025
The bottom part that holds the windshield down is coming off. My windshield sounds like it is going to fly off when I drive. It makes a constant loud noise when driving. This has been an ongoing issue for almost 2 years. Ford told me they couldn’t do anything about it.
Other or unspecified, Jun 26, 2025
The A-PILLAR TRIM has flew off on the freeway on 4 separate occasions. 3 different times I paid out of pocket to have it repaired, not knowing this was a manufacture defect. Ford keeps saying that they do not have the parts to repair it.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Jun 14, 2025
In February I was driving to an appt. when the side panel on driver's door broke & started flying around & hitting car. (It has the numbers to enter the car without a key.) So I had to roll down window 1/2 way, grab the broken part & drive 18 miles to town, holding the part so it wouldn't fly off (in 30 degree weather!) So I drove by the Ford Dealership where I got my car. They thought there was a recall on that item so I've been waiting. I just saw on the NHTSA site there was a recall for that item on 2016-17? Explorers, but mine is 2019!!! Would you please add the 2019 model to that recall? Also, I'm STILL WAITING (1 1/2 years later) for the recalled trim pieces around the front windshield.
Other or unspecified, May 20, 2025
Difficulty getting the vehicle repaired in a reasonable time or without charge. Initial recall indicated parts would be available in the latter half of 2024. It is now mid 2025. Ford dealership indicates parts are not available for recall, BUT parts ARE available if I'd like to pay out of pocket for repairs. That seems fraudulent and the A-pillar trim on my vehicle is obviously defective and coming off the vehicle. This is hazardous and Ford should not be able to charge for repairs and not comply with the recall repairs.
Other or unspecified, Apr 28, 2025
The windshield lower molding is deteriorating. The molding has cracked and fallen off in several places. This has been happening over the last 6 months but has gotten much worse. It also makes a buzzing vibration over 50mph. I'm afraid that if it gets any worse the windshield may pop out in an accident. Unknown Unknown No warning
Other or unspecified, Apr 16, 2025
The A-pillar trim on the driver's side around windshield is coming off, and poses a risk to other drivers if it flys off while driving down the road. A recall on Ford Explorers of the same year is already issued, does not include the Police utility of same year.
Other or unspecified, Apr 12, 2025
Water is entering the rear liftgate which fills up during a rain event. This can potentially create problems with the electrical components mounted inside of the liftgate. i.e. Power door release, Rear defog, third bake light, window wiper, rear tail lights. These could short out or maybe cause a fire. It is already causing premature corrosion at the lowest end seam of the panel as the paint it now bubbling and beginning to seperate from the surface. This could also create a structural integrity issue with the liftgate. The rear glass is stationary. Not designed to open. Maybe this is a similar adhesion issue that the 2016 Transit connect had with the windshield which was recentlyn recalled for improper adhesion process/defect aloowing water to enter into the cabin.
Other or unspecified, Jan 1, 2025
It has been more than a year later, Ford has not resolved the issue with the exterior A-Pillar. The response at the dealership has been, A) we do not have the parts or B) If you pay for them out of pocket, we can fix the issue. Which tells me they can fix the issue but chose to not do so because they are banking on owners paying for this recall. What recourse do I have?
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 8, 2024
Code P0301 can’t pin point issue
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Sep 3, 2024
I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding my 2019 Ford Explorer, which is currently subject to the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer — A-Pillar Trim Detachment Recall (Recall Reference Number: 24S02). The exterior A-pillar trim on my 2019 Ford Explorer, covered under the aforementioned recall, has caused severe issues including vibrations and a loud whistling noise around the windshield area, particularly at highway speeds. These problems are not only a nuisance but also pose a potential safety hazard, as the vibrations could lead to more severe structural damage or detachment of the trim while driving. I have contacted several Ford dealerships in my area, as well as Ford headquarters, seeking a resolution under recall 24S02. Unfortunately, I was consistently informed that the necessary parts to correct the issue are not available. I was told that Ford had provided the parts, but they were only available for a two-week period and are no longer in stock. The person I spoke with at the dealership advised me to call back at a later time to check if the parts are available. Additionally, when I reached out to Ford’s headquarters customer relations department for further assistance, I was simply transferred to my local dealership without any other form of help or guidance. This lack of support from the manufacturer is deeply frustrating and concerning. Furthermore, one of the dealerships informed me that another customer with similar issues under the same recall has been waiting for over a month and has yet to receive the necessary parts. This delay, coupled with the lack of clear communication and guidance, is highly concerning, especially given the potential safety risks associated with the defect. Given the severity of the issue and the inadequate response from Ford, I am requesting that the NHTSA intervene to ensure that Ford takes the necessary steps to resolve this safety concern promptly. I am concerned that a serious incident can occur if not resolved.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Jul 22, 2024
EXTERIOR A-PILLAR TRIM PART DETACHED, NOW CAUSED CRACKED WINDSHIELD WHERE TRIM WOULD HAVE BEEN. THE PART HAS BEEN DETACHED FOR MONTHS AND MY LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP HAS NO TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT SOLUTION. MY WINDSHIELD NOW HAS A SPIDERING CRACK WHERE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN PROTECTED .
Other or unspecified, May 15, 2024
I took my vehicle last year to the dealership to report the safety concern I had with a loose piece under my hood causing a flapping sound while driving. They determined the exterior a pillar was warped, loose and missing pieces. I received the recall in the mail a few weeks later, although they will not set up an appointment for me to resolve this issue. Not only does it state this is a potential safety concern, it has already been established this piece is defective on my vehicle. I also drive fellow associates around to meetings in my vehicle and it is putting them in danger along with myself and is bringing concerns it has not yet been addressed. The recall was sent to me a few weeks later on 01/26/2024.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Mar 26, 2024
The B-pillar trim piece has become detached from the vehicle due to broken clips and when driving it appears as if it will fall off. Ford will not address the issue, other then using two sided adhesive tape which needs to be replaced continuously. The clips that hold the trim in place are broken and this is common on many explorers. There are other body trim pieces which have been recalled for and this needs to be added as well. The A-pillar trim was recently a recall item and this is just as much a hazard.
Other or unspecified, Feb 8, 2024
Drivers door will not lock. It will only lock if you push it down but doesn’t lock when taking off like it’s supposed to for safety.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 26, 2024
Operator law enforcement was idling for an extended time in this vehicle. He was found unconscious in the vehicle and diagnosed with acute carbon monoxide poisoning. He was hospitalised for 4 days, and suffers continuing neurological deficits. Post-incident testing by engineer instructed by operator indicated two improper or incomplete welds on exhaust system, allowing exhaust to pool under vehicle and enter passenger compartment through HVAC fresh air intake. Post-incident testing recreated rising CO levels in passenger compartment. Vehicle has also been inspected by manufacturer. There were no warning lamps or messages.
Other or unspecified, Oct 20, 2023
Dec 2022- Windshield trim on passenger side ripped off while driving on the interstate. Sept 2023- noticed noise while driving. Checked driver side trim and noticed seal was gone. Trim was cracked along its entirety. Replaced before it also flew off
Other or unspecified, Oct 17, 2023
Doing 70 mph and trim along passenger windshield broke in half and flew off
Other or unspecified, Oct 5, 2023
OEM Ford Gen 4 SYNC 3 Nav APIM suddenly started sporadically functioning. Contacted Ford after viewing multiple recalls from previous years Ford vehicles with exact issue. After being told there was no recall on my 2019 Explorer, was given a quote of $170.00 to diagnose issue, $900 + for APIM module, plus installation and programming. We purchased a re-programmed APIM module and installed. Problem is now corrected. Recall needs entered on this unit. Attaching photos of front & back of bad unit: WY1W748K GR26A KB5T-14G370-DCA SERIAL NO. 205831 MFG - JANUARY 2019 ASSY NO. MAJ0673GX PANASONIC AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS MODEL FA-170-BCAR-HS IFT# RCPPAFA16-2032 FCC ID: ACJ-FA-170-BCARHS IC ID: 216B-FA170BCARHS ANATEL ID: 05008-16-09014 CMIIT ID: 2016AJ4795