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: power train
486 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Power train, Jun 23, 2025
After maintaining a speed, accelerating just a bit, the steering wheel vibrates until i increase the speed. Twice I have had it into the shop after I purchased it and the Ford dealership said there is nothing wrong. It cost me the 2nd time. There is a recall on a bolt on the rear axle on mine and a steering bolt on another 2020 vehicle. Another mechanic said it could be the transmition not working properly. It drives down the road good except when accelerating a little. It sometimes has a hard shift into drive or reverse. Thank You
Power train, Jun 21, 2025
My 2020 Ford Explorer has 63,853 miles on it. My power train started to hard shift up and down out of nowhere on Wednesday June 18, 2025. It was fine in the morning before work and on my way home after work it started to hard shift.
Power train, Wheels, Jun 19, 2025
I am filing a complaint regarding a safety issue with my 2020 Ford Explorer that was not properly addressed during a recall repair, leading to a dangerous situation. Vehicle Details Make: Ford Model: Explorer Year: 2020 Recall Repair Details In January 2024, I took my vehicle to Coconut Point Ford in Estero, FL, for a recall repair related to the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt, which was at risk of fracturing. The recall required the replacement of the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt to prevent driveshaft disconnection. Incident Description Recently, while driving under normal conditions, the bolt fractured, causing the differential to nearly detach from the vehicle. This failure could have resulted in a catastrophic accident. I am now facing a $6,000 repair bill for an issue that should have been resolved under the recall. Safety Risk The failure of the bolt and the near detachment of the differential posed a severe safety risk, as it could have led to a loss of control of the vehicle, especially at highway speeds. Dealership Response When I brought this to the attention of Coconut Point Ford, they stated that "bolts are not covered under the extended warranty." However, since this is a recall-related issue, I believe Ford is obligated to cover the repair costs. The service writer, Steve, has been helpful, but the resolution has been delayed. Additional Context I am aware of class action lawsuits against Ford regarding this defect, which allege that the recall fix does not fully address the issue and that the design is inherently flawed. Request I request that the NHTSA investigate this matter to ensure that Ford is held accountable for properly addressing this safety recall and to prevent similar incidents from occurring to other vehicle owners. Thank you for your attention to this serious safety concern.
Power train, Jun 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train) and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the recall was repair was performed; however, several months later while driving 50 MPH, the rear axle bolt split in half. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the rear axle bolt was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 118,000.
Steering, Power train, Jun 17, 2025
Front axle boot defective and leaks grease causing steering instability and possible powertrain failure. Dealer charged $475 to fix/replace the part. Upon further research on-line, it is apparent that thousands of 2020 Ford Explorers exhibit the same problem and the manufacturer should be fixing this problem free of charge.
Power train, Jun 17, 2025
While slowing, between 30-25mph the transmission downshifts hard and the vehicle jerks. This just began happening. No alarms or errors present on the vehicle. Regularly serviced with no issues.
Power train, Jun 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while reversing out of the driveway and making a right turn, the vehicle felt like the front axle was locked in 4WD Mode. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times while reversing out of the driveway. The power train warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the failure was confirmed, and the dealer diagnosed that the front axle and the front axle boots needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 78,950.
Power train, Jun 16, 2025
Vehicle accelerates rapidly at low speeds when attempting to slightly accelerate in slow speed area such as in parking lots. Transmission chugs shifts hard when trying to maintain speeds below 50 MPH. Transmission was rebuilt by dealer under warranty but same problem still exists. Dangerous and happens often.
Power train, Jun 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at various speeds the transmission unexpected downshifted from a high gear to a low gear, and the vehicle lurched forward while attempting to decelerate. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Power train, Jun 10, 2025
On May 14, 2025, at approximately 72,000 miles, the vehicle began making a loud rumbling noise when put into gear and proceeding in forward or reverse. The rumbling\shaking would happen to a lesser degree if torque was maintained in the system and all turns were made while accelerating. The vehicle was immediately taken to the Ford Dealership. The transmission tech began to back up the vehicle, at which point the rumbling\shaking occurred and the tech stated that the rear differential (RDU) had failed. The vehicle was left at the Ford Dealership awaiting complete diagnosis. The vehicle was previously taken to the dealership on October 8, 2024, October 14, 2024, October 24, 2024, November 19, 2024, and December 16, 2024 to have the rumbling\jerking\slipping issues fixed and the complete drivetrain evaluated. On May 30, 3025, the owner was advised that the diagnosis was a failed rear differential and a failed transmission. As documented in NHTSA Safety Issue ID# 11655556, both front axles were just fully replaced replaced three times on October 2, 2024 (65,221 miles), October 16, 2024 (65,301 miles), and October 28, 2024 (65,597 miles) September to address issues with severe vibrations and rumbling which occurred when making turns and driving around curves. These severe vibrations and rumblings coupled with rough shifting and a hop\slip of the transmission when approaching 0 mph caused alarm and deep concern to the passengers in the car, so much so that they expressed fear for their safety as the vehicle shook and jerked. The axle replacement on October 28, 2024 included performing TSB 23-2174 to swap axle types completely by removing the Front Axle Disconnect Assembly. The rumbling\clunking\hopping\slipping persisted off and on after the replacement of the axles and transmission (TCM\PCM) reprogramming by the Ford Dealership. There were no warning lights or messages. The passengers were scared to ride in the car and the driver was nervous. Vehicle can be inspected.
Power train, Jun 10, 2025
When entering a roundabout, the vehicle failed to accelerate for a few moments. The vehicle then suddenly accelerated agressviely putting the occupants at risk for a collision with the oncoming traffic amd vehciles ahead of us, already in the roundabout.
Power train, Jun 9, 2025
While driving at highway speeds, my 2020 Ford Explorer ST began to hard-shift and hesitate between gears, resulting in a dangerous loss of power. The transmission would delay or fail to engage, making it difficult to accelerate or maintain speed, creating a serious safety risk for both myself and my wife while in traffic. After safely reaching home and placing the vehicle in park, the transmission completely failed. It would no longer engage Drive or Reverse and behaved as though it was in Neutral in all positions. No warning lights or error messages were displayed at any point before, during, or after the failure. The vehicle has only 85,000 miles, and the failure occurred just after the extended warranty expired. I have since learned that the 10R60 transmission in this vehicle has experienced similar issues in other Ford models, indicating a possible widespread defect. This failure could have caused a serious accident had it occurred at high speed or in heavy traffic.
Power train, Jun 9, 2025
Transmission harsh shifting and sometimes going into limp mode where vehicle will not accelerate even on the highway and at highway speeds- according to ford dealer their is no recall for this- vehicle has 64k miles but it’s a 2024 and apparently out of warranty- sometimes it will shift down to 1st gear at 55mph. No help from ford- dealership wants $180 just to diagnose problem.
Power train, Forward collision avoidance, Jun 8, 2025
The hill assist malfunction warning followed by multiple malfunction warning failures started about a two weeks ago since being inspected at the dealer. Other warnings include pre-collision malfunction warning and advance track malfunction warning occurs then a wrench appears on the top left of display screen
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Jun 5, 2025
The vehicle’s transmission system has been malfunctioning exhi jerky, delayed, and unpredictable shifting behaviors, especially noticeable at speeds between approximately 27 an 30 mph and higher. At lower speeds, the jerking is less frequent, but as speed increases, the jerks become more severe and abrupt. These issues manifest during various driving conditions, including accelerating, decelerating, coming to a stop, and lane changes on highways and city roads. When the problem first occurred, the vehicle suddenly jolted in a manner that felt as if I had been rear-ended, causing a sharp, uncomfortable sensation akin to whiplash. The unexpected jerks cause the vehicle to surge or hesitate unpredictably, significantly affecting my ability to maintain smooth control. On multiple occasions, this behavior happened while I was slowing down at stop signs, red lights, or in traffic, with vehicles close behind me, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. In one hazardous incident, while attempting to merge from the right lane to the outermost left lane in order to cross an intersection, the vehicle jerked suddenly and unexpectedly, nearly causing me to collide with multiple vehicles behind me. This loss of control was alarming and made it unsafe to continue driving in this condition. At the time of these transmission malfunctions, my children were passengers in the vehicle, which made the situation even more alarming due to the increased risk of injury to my family. To date, this transmission issue has been consistently reproducible during everyday driving but has not been formally inspected, diagnosed, or repaired by any dealership or independent mechanic. There have been no warning lights, messages, or dashboard indicators that signaled this problem prior to or during these events. The transmission system and related components are available for inspection upon request. Because of these unpredictable and unsafe transmission malfunctions, I am currently u
Power train, Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, May 30, 2025
Vehicle continuously shows a fault for Hill Start Assist, AWD Mode disabled, AdvanceTrac fault, Park Sensor, AWD Module Failure, ABS disabled. These faults started showing 13/04/25. While in traffic, driver was giving the throttle gas. While giving gas, driver lost power, and noticed a ticking noise as car was losing power in normal drive mode. Driver could have potentially been rear ended, pushed into traffic, and fear that the vehicle will eventually have a brake failure; or have the brakes lock up on the car while driving that could also lead to fatality, or bodily injuries of driver, or civilians. After making it to destination, driver parked for the night. The next day driver started car all faults were gone. Driver then trashed car to dealership to see what malfunction the car had and everything was fine. Fault later appeared, and driver lost power again. Driver then proceeds to a nearby Auto store where driver had a diagnostic of the car. The store associate then tells driver that the car had a faulty PCM. Driver also notes that the car was Purchased used with mileage reported at 29,000 miles. Driver now has 57k miles. Though car isn’t new. It isn’t old. Being that it is used, car is and was practically new. Driver feels a car with low mileage should not be malfunctioning given the status of its components.
Power train, May 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed and decelerated significantly while the RPMs increased. The contact stated that the incident was frightening for both the contact and her children who were also inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the message "Power Train Malfunction - Reduced Power" was displayed. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road in a construction zone. The contact stated that upon turning the gear shifter knob to park(P), the vehicle failed to shift to park(P), and the parking brake automatically engaged. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The dealer determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.
Power train, May 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various highway speeds, the transmission experienced harsh downshifting from seventh to sixth gear. During the failure, the vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally, and decelerated unintendedly. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 35,000.
Power train, May 28, 2025
As I was driving down the road I heard a pop and a loud grinding sound. I pulled over to check and was immediately stuck in park (in a turning lane on rt1 with a 4yr old and a 8 month old) even though the car was still in drive. The gear shifter would not come out of park no matter what you shifted to, they just flashed. I got the vehicle towed to a shop because I couldn't get ahold of anyone at the dealer. After describing to them what happened and a little research on their end, they discovered that this matched a recall that ford had already released in 2023 for the plant and year model that my car is. The recal number is 23S05. The warning light states that "park not available" even though it's stuck in park. Unsure why it didn't include my vehicle in the recall but being that im having the same problem as this recall, it should be included. Everything in the recall letter matched what had happened to my vehicle.
Power train, May 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle started jerking while depressing the accelerator pedal, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the lights on the electronic gear shifter were flashing, causing the contact to pull over and restart the vehicle. The contact stated that during the most recent failure, the vehicle failed to accelerate, and the contact was left stranded on the road. Due to failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer and was diagnosed with transmission failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Power train, May 16, 2025
The transmission, when slowing down from 3rd to 2nd gear is shifting really hard and jerking. I haven't noticed this when it upshifts, only downshifting. There are times when backing up it will also act like the brake isn't completely off. It will jerk and scoot until you put it in park and let it set for a minute and then start backing up again.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, May 16, 2025
Fuel purge valve not working properly causing the vehicle to not start after filling with gas, needing to keep vehicle running while filling with gas, safety issue. Turbo faulty causing car to loose power while driving and towing. Safely concern for multiple reasons. Flex exhaust pipe broken and mesh ripped causing burning smell and dangerous debris.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Forward collision avoidance, May 15, 2025
* The component that appears to be malfunctioning is the driveshaft and/or related transmission system. I have experienced repeated issues such as abnormal jerking when switching gears, grinding or clunking noises, and jerking through the drivetrain with erratic RPMs before the vehicle regains power. These symptoms are consistent with problems covered in recent recalls for the 2020 Ford Explorer. The vehicle is still in my possession and available for inspection upon request. *The issues have made it feel unsafe to drive the vehicle, especially with children in the car. The unpredictable jerking and loss of power present a serious danger, particularly when accelerating into traffic or driving at highway speeds. I am extremely concerned that a sudden failure could result in loss of control, a rollaway, or even a serious accident. Another concern is the defect involving the driveshaft or half shafts that might disconnect or stop functioning. This disconnection can lead to a loss of drive power or, if the parking brake is not applied, a possible vehicle rollaway. *While I have not yet had the issue diagnosed by a service center, I have filed a lemon law claim, and I’m in the process of addressing the matter formally. The symptoms I’m experiencing appear to match known issues that Ford has already recalled for the 2020–2021 Explorer models. *The manufacturer has not yet inspected the vehicle, and no inspections have been conducted by police or insurance representatives. I am open to having the vehicle inspected by Ford or an authorized party as needed. *There were no warning lamps or messages displayed prior to the issues occurring. The symptoms—jerking, clunking noises, and erratic RPM behavior—began gradually over time, with the first noticeable incident occurring a few months ago. Since then, the issues have become more frequent and severe.
Power train, May 15, 2025
While driving the car made a grinding noise and experienced a brief loss of power. We were in two lanes of traffic, traveling at 65 MPH on an incline with a tractor trailer behind us. Then when reaching destination the car would not engage in park, but continued to roll. We were visiting our grandchildren’s house and they come out to greet us and my husband was getting out of the car as the car was still rolling. We drove the car to our Ford dealership and the manager drove the car and also experienced the car’s inability to engage in PARK. The Ford dealership inspected the vehicle.
Power train, May 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission failed to operate as designed, and the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle returned to normal functionality afterwards. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the transmission oil cooler had failed and was leaking transmission fluid. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and confirmed that the transmission oil cooler had failed. The vehicle was pending repair. The contact stated that recently, while the vehicle was parked, there were oil stains found on the ground. The vehicle was not repaired after the most recent failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The contact related the failure to the Manufacturer Recall Number: 20B34. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.