2020 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 1,217 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 9th highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 35 involved a crash and 10 involved a fire. 38 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Seats, mid/rear assemblyJul 14, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Campaign 26V451000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionJun 24, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.
Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.
Campaign 26V402000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsMar 17, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Campaign 26V159000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareMar 3, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Campaign 26V123000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, windshield wiper/washer, motorMar 3, 2026
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.
Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 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 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
Campaign 26V117000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, electrical, engine block heaterOct 10, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick 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 December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 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 October 15, 2025.
Campaign 25V685000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareJun 27, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Campaign 25V442000 on NHTSA.gov
Seats, mid/rear assemblyJun 13, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Campaign 25V393000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, driveshaftMar 14, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 23V-199 or 22V-255. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S22.
Campaign 25V166000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareMar 14, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
Campaign 25V159000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsFeb 14, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.
A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.
Campaign 25V093000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsNov 8, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Campaign 24V852000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineAug 10, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility Package. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S52.
Campaign 24V598000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraMar 8, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that displays a blank or distorted image can reduce the drivers view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 20V-575 and 22V-252.
Campaign 24V188000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, driveshaftOct 6, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S55.
Campaign 23V675000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, propulsion system, traction batterySep 8, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
Campaign 23V626000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraMay 12, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Campaign 23V342000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionApr 28, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 12.1-inch Integrated Computer Screen (ICS). When the Display On/Off Button is used to turn the display to "Off" prior to placing the vehicle in reverse, the backup camera rearview image will not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will update the ICS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C14.
Campaign 23V305000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Mar 24, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.
Campaign 23V199000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Feb 10, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.
A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S05.
Campaign 23V069000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraJan 23, 2023
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Campaign 23V022000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, softwareSep 22, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.
Campaign 21V735000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearMar 10, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles. The rear lower control arm (RLCA) bolts that attach the rear lower control arms to the wheel knuckles may not have been heat-treated, which could cause them to break.
Broken RLCA bolts can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace both RLCA bolts, free of charge. The recall began on April 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S11.
Campaign 21V154000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineDec 17, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.
With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.
Campaign 20V788000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, storageNov 24, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L engines and 19 gallon fuel tanks. The fuel tank inlet check valve may not be fully welded to the fuel tank shell.
An incomplete weld securing the inlet check valve to the fuel tank shell could result in a substantial fuel leak during a crash, increasing the risk of fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank shell, free of charge. The recall began December 8, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S68.
Campaign 20V730000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, driveshaftNov 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 3.3L engine and a 10 Speed Automatic Transmission with the All Wheel Drive package. The drive shaft may fracture along the weld seam.
Defective drive shafts may fail and cause a loss of connection between the transfer case and rear axle, possibly resulting in a vehicle rollaway when in Park or a loss of drive. Either condition can increase the risk of a crash. The drive shafts can also deform and separate from the driveline and potentially contact the fuel tank, increasing the risk of fuel leaks and/or fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the drive shaft label inspected and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S65.
Campaign 20V693000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, sensing system, cameraSep 23, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
Campaign 20V575000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, rear/other, buckle assemblySep 10, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with second row center seat belt buckles that may not be properly secured to the seat.
Vehicles with seat belt buckles that are not properly secured may fail to restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the second row center seat assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S50.
Campaign 20V549000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, critical fastenersAug 21, 2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag and/or seat back module attachments may not have been properly tightened in the front seat backs.
If the side air bag or seat back fasteners were not properly tightened, the side air bag deployment could be affected, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove front seat back panels from one or both front seats (VIN-specific) and verify that the fasteners have been properly tightened, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S48.
Campaign 20V497000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsDec 4, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Over time, the protective sleeve on the vapor fuel line may chafe through the plastic liquid fuel line and cause a fuel leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a longer protective sleeve on the liquid fuel line, as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners and interim notification on January 29, 2020. Recall began March 23, 2020. A second notice will be sent once parts are available, expected to be late in the first quarter of 2020. A renotification letter was sent on July 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S49.
Campaign 19V859000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringSep 30, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L or 3.3L engines. The wiring harness may not have been properly secured and may contact the air conditioner compressor (A/C) pulley, potentially damaging the harness or the A/C belt.
The A/C pulley may rub through the wiring harness insulation and contact the unfused battery positive wire, resulting in a short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a tie strap to the wiring harness at the hand shock tower clip, 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 19S32.
Campaign 19V687000 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
Power train, automatic transmission, gear position indication (prndl)Aug 5, 2019
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The Manual Park Release (MPR) cover may not be installed. In addition, the vehicles may be in Factory Mode, which disables warning alerts and does not display the transmission gear selected. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 114, "Theft Prevention" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."
Without the cover, the MPR lever may be unintentionally moved, allowing the vehicle to roll away. Being in Factory Mode, the vehicle will not display warnings and/or gear selection on the instrument cluster. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install a MPR cover. Dealers will verify the instrument cluster is not in Factory Mode and clear any fault codes, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C06.
Campaign 19V575000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
183 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Engine, Back over prevention, Aug 8, 2022
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while shifting into reverse the Back Over Prevention screen failed to operate as designed. Additionally, the vehicle would respond without the accelerator pedal being depressed. The contact also stated that while driving 35 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance warning system activated while there was no vehicle nearby. The contact stated that the vehicle was sputtering. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the technician informed the contact that the brake assist was unavailable. The technician was unable to duplicate the failure with the Forward Collision Avoidance system. The vehicle was currently being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 4,000.
Electrical system, Jul 2, 2022
THE HANDS FREE LIFT GATE CLOSES ON ITS OWN. THIS HAS HAPPENED MORE THAN A DOZEN TIMES SINCE I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE 3 MONTHS AGO. ANY PERSON STANDING AT THE REAR BUMPER (NOT PUTTING THEIR FOOT UNDER THE BUMPER) ACTIVATES THIS SELF CLOSING PROCESS. THE DOOR HIT ME IN THE HEAD TWICE.
Electrical system, Lane departure, Back over prevention, May 18, 2022
When reversing the rear camera display turns blue and I'm not able to see anything behind me using the safety camera feature. I rely on the camera to assist with detecting people or objects in my blind spots while reversing and intermittently the display turns blue. There was a recall for this make and model and manufacture date, but the vehicle is not included in the recall. Recall information - Rearview Camera Recall 21C09. The dealership can't reproduce the issue because it's intermittent and there are no error codes, so they won't replace the camera. They've tried several software fixes but the problem continues. No warning messages displayed when the issue occurs. Thanks.
Electrical system, May 18, 2022
Sometimes the rear camera view shows a blue screen while the other camera views work. I have to restart the vehicle to make it work.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 1, 2022
My car warnings were malfunctioning as they were all flashing on briefly. The car has done this before and has other issues with the panel such as now it has the icon for camera visibility is not working. I cleaned each camera and the light is still on. I backed out of the driveway put the car in drive and started to accelerate. I stepped on the brakes and they were not working, I repeatedly tried to stop but they were gone. My car finally stopped (I was not far enough to have started to build any speed. I turned the car off and back on and the brakes were back on. This happened March 31st, 2022.
Electrical system, Feb 17, 2022
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the instrument panel would remain inoperable, resulting in a loss of speedometer and tachometer functions. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the instrument cluster replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.
Electrical system, Dec 28, 2021
Our radio/navigational/climate control screen will go completely black while driving the vehicle. This has happened approximately 15 times since the purchase of the brand new car in August of 2020. Therefore, I lose all of my controls and my GPS. This will not come back on until the car is turned off and is given time to reset. This reset time varies from 30 minutes to 1 hour. The first time this occurred was one month after purchasing the vehicle. So, after three different visits to Ford dealerships, Hopkins Ford, Manning Ford and Dundee Ford, not one technician can duplicate this problem so it is still happening. Recently, I was in Columbus, Ohio and the screen went black while I was driving in an unfamiliar area. I'm aware that Ford had a massive recall on this very issue but somehow our VIN number is not included in this. I frequently travel across the Midwest because my fifteen year old daughter is in travel volleyball. I cannot afford for safety reasons for this to happen to the two of us when we are driving in unfamiliar places. This is a huge safety concern for my daughter and I.
Electrical system, Nov 24, 2021
A computer system fault caused the inability to start, move, turn off, turn on, lock or otherwise do anything with the vehicle with manual buttons or the remote. The drivers screen flashed through fault codes but would not allow any action. After discussing with the dealer on the phone, who mentioned something about a bad battery cell, I decided to disconnect the battery terminal, waited a period of time, and reconnected. The computer system reset and everything functioned correctly with no fault codes. At the time the vehicle was in a company drive lane causing a major hazard to the vehicles passing through. The vehicle was brought straight to the Dealer Service department who said they could not find anything wrong.
Steering, Electrical system, Service brakes, Nov 23, 2021
While driving at 70 mph the vehicle experienced the following issues all at once, the power steering shut off, all brake pressure was lost, the pre- collision system was turned off, parking brake engaged(at 70 mph) traction control system turned off, engine light turned on and all of the warning lights on the dash activated. This has happened 3 times and almost killed me twice. Ford has tried to repair this vehicle all three times and still have not corrected the issue. Ford has also refused to replace or buy back the vehicle.
Electrical system, Oct 5, 2021
The rear camera malfunctions and the display screen is blue. The vehicle is available for inspection. It creates a blind spot on the display screen of the area behind the vehicle and sounds an alert/alarm every time the malfunction occurs. The problem has not been reproduced by the dealer but I have provided multiple pictures of it occurring. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer on several occasions. There were no warnings prior to the failure.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Sep 20, 2021
When backing up, the screen turns blue 3 out of 5 times when placed in reverse.
Electrical system, Aug 17, 2021
I am associated with the City of Brookings, SD Police Dept. We have two 2020 Ford Hybrid SUV patrol vehicles. Both vehicles since we obtained them in October of 2020 have experienced loss of power. Both vehicles dash indicators lights come on and the vehicles has a complete system failure. In June of this year an officer was responding to an emergency call. The officer was traveling at approximately 50 mph. The vehicle's dash lights all came on and the vehicle's power system shut down. The officer stated the vehicle almost came to a dead stop, almost causing him to crash. He stated if he was not wearing his seat belt he would have went through the windshield. This particular vehicle has had had complete loss of power approximately eight times. Ford has replaced the ECM power module stating this would fix the issue. Now the vehicle's trailer module has supposedly failed and caused a complete loss of power. This trailer module effected the entire electrical system. This vehicle has been unusable since July 19. Prior to this latest incident the vehicle was unusable for approximately four weeks. In the almost year we have had the vehicle in service it has been unusable approximately 6 to 7 weeks. I have contacted Brooklyn Center, MN PD, East Grand Forks, ND PD and Yankton, SD PD. These agencies all have had the same Ford Hybrids. They all have experienced the same issues. Yankton PD is currently had one vehicle labeled a lemon and Ford is replacing this vehicle. Our agency is attempting to have Ford recognize this issue. We want the two vehicles replaced and be deemed unusable. I am contacting the NTSB to assist our police agency in addressing this issue. We cannot provide sufficient public service to our community with these vehicles. If we cannot respond to emergencies in a timely manner due to these vehicles not properly functioning then the potential for the public's safety is potentially at risk. Not to mention the safety of our officers. Thank you.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Jul 29, 2021
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon rapid acceleration at various speeds, exhaust fumes from the tailpipes would enter the cabin of the vehicle. The contact also stated that after heavy rains, water-filled the spare tire compartment located in the rear of the vehicle. One day while his wife was driving and coming to a complete stop, the water spilled out of the compartment and flooded the cabin floor of the vehicle. Once the contact discovered where the water was located, he vacuumed up nearly four gallons of water out of the spare tire compartment. As a result of the internal water intrusion, there were several electrical failures. The forward collision warning light would illuminate on the instrument panel without any vehicles in near proximity. The contact also stated that his wife received multiple alerts on her phone through the Ford app that an intruder had attempted to open the tailgate however, each alert was a false alarm. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer where the service manager agreed to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 1,000.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Jul 16, 2021, fire
Smoke started coming from the passenger side visor as I was driving. There was no indication of an issue with warning messages of any kind. Of course I panicked, ran from the car and called the fire department who stated it smelled electrical when they arrived. After a week of being at the dealership, they couldn't find anything; however, 30 seconds after I got into my vehicle, I noticed the cabin lights weren't working. After returning the vehicle within an hour they found that a wire had burned out and shorted out some fuses. 2 weeks later and I still don't have my vehicle. No injuries, just scared beyond belief to have a 2020 ST start smoking!! Even if they state it is fixed, I am still scared to death to drive it after that!! I have had issues with the brakes as well. Those stopped working but apparently that was a recall that was resolved. I have purchased Fords for the past 20 years. I will NEVER buy a Ford again with all the issues I have on this vehicle!
Electrical system, Jul 15, 2021
Ford has a recall for Explorer backup cameras failing but ours was not built on the correct date so it doesn't fall under the recall. Yet, our 2020 Explorers backup camera shows a blue screen and no video. Took it to the dealership and they said we were 2500 mile out of warranty and we would have to pay. You and Ford knows there is an issue and should have to fix this. it goes beyond the build date listed. This vehicle is full of gremlins and should be heavily watched.
Power train, Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 13, 2021
Vehicle started, but then every warning lamp and alert triggered on the dashboard and engine shut off. Would not restart, but would just cycle through error/alert messages. Waited 15 minutes, car started but upon putting it in reverse WITH FOOT ON THE BRAKE the car started to drive backwards. No amount of pressure on the brake pedal stopped the car. Had to depress and repress the pedal to stop the vehicle after shifting into gear. Rear cameras failed to activate as well. Thankfully, no one was behind the vehicle and injured. This is the second time this has happened and the second time I have reported to NHTSA. The Ford dealership is oblivious to the root cause of the issue. Their quick fix is a battery replacement and software reload.
Power train, Electrical system, Back over prevention, Jun 7, 2021
1. Powertrain/Transmission: The transmission starting slipping and having hard shifts. When I would slow the car to turn or stop, it jerked at 30mph, 20 mph, and again at 15-10mph. Then it started hard shifting when you put it in Drive, and again at each shift. It wouldn't go over 55mph. The Powertrain Failure light(orange wrench) and Fordpass Notice finally came on a week and a half after the issues started. Shortly after the light cam on the car would not go in Reverse. There is a recall on the Powertrain in 2020 Explorers, however my VIN # does not show any recalls. I have an infant that is in the car with me usually. I am afraid for her to travel with me now in this vehicle, even once Ford tries to "fix" the issue because the warning light does not appear until the Powertrain is completely gone. I feel that the sensor should go off when it notices the transmission is having issues. This vehicle is now at a Ford dealership to be repaired. *2. Rear-view back up camera: Camera works 20% of the time. The screen is blue or the image jumps severely. It was taken to a Ford dealership and they said it didn't happen when it was there so they did nothing to fix it. There is a recall on this feature however my VIN # does not apply. *3. A/C: The air-conditioning unit fails to cool the air. The AC unit blows humid air. *4. Screen/display: The screen in the center console will go black and the steering wheel buttons will not work on the radio or bluetooth phone capabilities. The hands free phone option was not available during these system blackouts. 5. Park-aid sensor: The parking sensors in the front bumper keep falling out and go off making it seem like I am an about to hit something. I had to pop them back in place at least twice. *A Ford dealership has tried to address these issues already. However, these features still do not function properly on the car. If the feature "worked" while it was in the repair shop then they said they couldn't fix it.
Electrical system, May 3, 2021, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2020 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED UNDER THE CAR PORT AND TURNED OFF, A FIRE IGNITED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BURN AND ALSO CAUSING BURN DAMAGE TO THE HOME. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO THE SCENE AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES AND A FIRE REPORT WAS TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DETERMINED THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY A FAULTY STARTER INSIDE THE VEHICLE. DURING THE INCIDENT, THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN STARTED FOR 2 DAYS PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT YET CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
Steering, Power train, Electrical system, Mar 21, 2021
TRANSMISSION WAS GRINDING AND STOPPED PULLING AT APPROXIMATELY 17,000 MILES. HAD CAR TOWED TO DEALER. THERE WAS A TRANSMISSION LEAK. IT WAS REPAIRED AND 6 QUARTS OF FLUID ADDED. SINCE THE REPAIRS, TRANSMISSION IS HARD SHIFTING AND JERKING. I'VE HAD THE CAR BACK AT THE DEALER FOR STEERING ISSUES 3 TIMES. AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS (65MPH AND ABOVE) THE CAR WANDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD, LIKE THERE'S SLACK IN THE RACK AND PINION. THE DEALER SAYS THE ALIGNMENT IS OKAY AND REFUSES TO LISTEN TO MY COMPLAINTS. HAVE ISSUES WITH THE SYNC. THE RADIO WILL RANDOMLY NOT LET YOU ADJUST THE VOLUME AND HAVE HAD THE BACK-UP CAMERA REPLACED. ALSO, RANDOMLY WILL NOT SYNC-UP WITH IPHONE.
Power train, Electrical system, Service brakes, Mar 12, 2021
WHEN SHIFTING INTO DRIVE, VEHICLE WILL RANDOMLY HAVE A HARD BRAKE PEDAL AND VEHICLE WILL LURCH FORWARD WITH INCREASED RPM. USE OF E-BRAKE OR PUTTING TRANSMISSION IN PARK REQUIRED TO STOP MOVEMENT. PLACE TRANS IN PARK AND RESTART OF ENGINE AND PROBLEM GONE UNTIL NEXT TIME. USE OF REVERSE, VEHICLE WILL SUDDENLY STOP AND SOUND AS IF YOU HIT SOMETHING. BRAKE PEDAL VERY HARD. HAVE TO PLACE TRANS IN PARK AND RESTART ENGINE. THE ISSUE OCCURS FROM A STATIONARY CONDITION, IN DRIVEWAY OR PUBLIC PARKING AREAS, SO THIS CAUSES CONCERN THAT THIS MAY ULTIMATELY RESULT IN ACCIDENT OR COLLISION WITH A STRUCTURE, ANOTHER VEHICLE, OR A PEDESTRIAN! ISSUE CANNOT BE REPEATED ON DEMAND. IT IS ENTIRELY RANDOM AND EVERY DRIVE HAS TO BE APPROACHED WITH THE EXPECTANCY THAT THE VEHICLE WILL MOVE WITHOUT NORMAL BRAKES TO STOP. THERE ARE NO ALERTS TO TELL US WHY (OR WHICH SYSTEM) IS THE ISSUE. THIS HAS OCCURRED RANDOMLY SINCE BUYING THIS EXPLORER ST. FORD SERVICE SEEMS SURPRISED AND UNAWARE OF THIS ISSUE (AND MORE).
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Feb 21, 2021
THE VEHICLE WILL JUST SHUT OFF AT ANYTIME. IT'S NOT THE AUTO START FEATURE, ALL POWER WILL TURN OFF AT ANYTIME. IT HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES WHILE DRIVING WAITING AT A RED LIGHT OR TO MAKE A TURN. IT ALWAYS HAPPENS WHILE DRIVING IN THE CITY.
Electrical system, Feb 9, 2021
REAR HATCH ERRATIC BEHAVIOR. HATCH CLOSES BY ITSELF, WHILE LOADING ITEMS INTO TRUNK AREA. CLOSE BUTTON ON HATCH DOES NOT WORK. HATCH OPENED BY ITSELF.
Electrical system, Feb 9, 2021
I HAVE RECEIVED A AUTO HOLD SYSTEM FAULT MESSAGE ON MY CLUSTER. THE DEALER IS UNABLE TO REPLICATE OR PRODUCE ANY FAULT CODES. THIS IS PART OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM.
Suspension, Electrical system, Lane departure, Jan 31, 2021
THIS TRUCK HAS A FEW DIFFERENT ISSUES ON AND OFF ISSUES 1. THE REVERSE CAMERA STOPS WORKING TURNS BLUE WHEN TRYING TO REVERSE 2. ALL MY WARNING SENSORS STOP WORKING GOING REVERSE OR FORWARD WHEN TRYING TO PARK THERE'S EVEN TIMES WHEN I'M DRIVING AND I GET A WARNING THAT MY SENSOR ARE NOT WORKING TO REFER TO MANUAL 3.MY CAR CAR HAS AN AUTO SHUT OFF WHEN ON A RED LIGHT FOR SOME REASON THIS IS NOT WORKING I GET THE SYMBOL ON DASH BOARD BUT IS CROSSED WITH A LINE 4. WHEN DRIVING AND I STEP ON GAS THE RPM STAY HIGH LIKE IF THE ENGINE OR TRANSMISSION IS TRYING TO CATCH UP 5. WHEN DRIVING OR YOU STEP ON GAS HEAVILY I GET A ROTTEN EGG SMELL OR SEWER TYPE SMELL IN CABIN NOT A PLEASANT SMELL I'M CONSTANTLY KEEP HAVING THIS ISSUES ON AND OFF WILL NEED TO FIND OUT IS FORD IS GONNA FIX THIS ISSUES THEY KEEP GIVING ME THE RUN AROUND THAT THERE'S NO WORKER RIGHT. NOW
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jan 29, 2021
I HAVE A 2020 EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION, WITH JUST OVER 10,000 MILES. SINCE I GOT IT, I NOTICED THAT SHIFTING FROM 2-4 GEAR WAS PRETTY ROUGH, AND JERKY. ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO, I LEFT THE DRIVEWAY, HEARD A THUD WHEN I PUT IT IN D, AND IT DIDN'T MOVE. I HIT THE GAS HARDER, AND IT MOVED, BUT WOULD NOT LEAVE 1ST GEAR. GOT A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. TURNED IT OFF, WAITED A WHILE, TRIED IT AGAIN, AND IT DROVE FINE, BUT CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS STILL ON. THE CAR DROVE FINE FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT OFF THE NEXT DAY. 2 WEEKS LATER, I TOOK IT OUT OF THE DRIVE, PUT IT IN DRIVE AND AGAIN, IT WOULDN'T LEAVE FIRST GEAR. PUT THE CAR BACK IN THE GARAGE, WAITED A WHILE, AND IT WAS FINE. CALLED THE DEALER, AND SCHEDULED AN APPT BECAUSE I CAN'T HAVE THESE SERIOUS ISSUES CONTINUE. MY CONCERN WAS THAT THEY WON'T BE ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE ISSUE, AND JUST SEND ME ON MY WAY. NEEDLESS TO SAY, THEY RAN SEVERAL DIAGNOSTICS TESTS, AND FOUND SOME ISSUES/CODES. THEY PERFORMED A PINPOINT TEST TRACE AND FOUND CODES P062C, P2242. THEY THEN PERFORMED TSB 20-2217 AGAIN, AND THE CODES WERE CLEAR. FOR A SHORT TIME AFTER, THE JERKINESS IN THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WENT AWAY, HOWEVER THAT HAS SINCE RETURNED. STOPPING AND STARTING, AND DRIVING ESPECIALLY IN NEIGHBORHOODS, IS VERY FRUSTRATING. IT IS UNCOMFORTABLE TO SAY THE. LEAST, THE VERY AGGRESSIVE SHIFTING, AND JERKING OF THE VEHICLE AT LOW SPEEDS. I HAVE NOT YET HAD THE SAME ISSUE WHERE THE VEHICLE REFUSED TO CHANGE GEARS, OR WAS STUCK WITHOUT MOVING, HOWEVER THE TRANSMISSION AS A WHOLE IS VERY PROBLEMATIC, AND SOMEWHAT SCARY TO DRIVE.