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
1,217 reports, newest first.
Power train, Mar 9, 2024
Vehicle has 91000ish miles and I have been told by the Mall of Georgia Ford dealership my vehicle has failure in the transmission. This is a 2020 its is a 4 year old car there is no way the transmission should be going out in only last 4 years. This is our family car most of the miles are from the Hwy. I live in Atlanta Ga. This issue could have left us stranded in the middle of a 6 lane highway. Possibility resulting in a major multiple car pile up. Based on my research this is a known problem with late model Ford Explorers it is unknown if this has been inspected by. The manufacturer, police, or insurance. There was not warnings or lights that notified me of a problem. Thank you for your consideration on making Ford recall theses vehicles.
Other or unspecified, Back over prevention, Mar 7, 2024
My backup camera hasn’t been reliable for over 2 years. Also my audio and GPS do not work. If I put my phone in the car I cannot even answer it due to no audio. I believe it needs a download update. I have tried and tried but have not succeeded. In getting an oil change the mechanic told me it can only be done on a ford computer. This is wrong! I only have 36000 miles on it
Power train, Engine, Mar 6, 2024
[XXX] My Ford Explorer had engine failure on the highway, just as I had entered it. The dashboard read powertrain malfunction, engine overheat, and service engine. My vehicle went from 60 mph to almost a complete stop on the highway. I had almost a dozen cars nearly rear end me as this happened. Getting off the road was just as dangerous as it only went 10mph max on the busy highway I was nearly hit several times. The vehicle was taken to an automotive shop for diagnosis. There was oil in the coolant tank and cracked head gasket, needing a new engine. The automotive shop called the ford dealer to confirm it was under warranty and was towed to the dealer at my expense [XXX]. Was told February 9th that parts were ordered for repairs. I asked the service rep Mike for a list of parts being replaced and the cause of the engine failure, he would not give me an answer and said he'd call me back. [XXX] I then asked Crystal R at Ford customer service the same questions, she said she would get back to me [XXX]. As of [XXX] Ford customer service representatives, and employees at Red McCombs Ford have gone no contact with me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Feb 28, 2024
Our 2020 Ford Explorer has experienced two recent Powertrain issues Event 1: 1/28/24 ~5:20pm EST Location: Highway Situation: - Following a ~200+ mile road trip our vehicle was on the last mile of highway driving - As we started to move from the middle to right lane to exit the highway, the vehicle lurched, the dashboard lit up (with a wrench icon), the vehicle speed dropped to 40-45mph in an instant, and the RPMs revved from 1-2K to ~4K - We pulled onto the shoulder and stopped - After stopping the car, we nursed the car (at low speed and high RPM) home (a total of ~3-4 miles) - The next morning the car was started, the light was off, and we took it to a Ford dealer - The dealer had the car until 2/15, at which point they replaced an Automatic Transmission Internal Wiring Harness and Solenoid Event 2: 2/24/24 ~5:00pm EST Location: Highway Situation: - Following a ~1K mile road trip our vehicle was ~30 miles from our destination - We were traveling in the left-hand lane at highway speeds when again the vehicle suddenly lurched, the dashboard lit up (with a wrench icon), the vehicle speed dropped to 40-45mph in an instant, and the RPMs revved from 1-2K to ~4K - Despite road traffic we pulled across three lanes of traffic to the shoulder, where we stopped the vehicle - After bringing the car to a complete stop, we turned the vehicle off and restarted the engine - The wrench light was off, so we started to reenter traffic in the right lane; after travelling ~50 yards at climbing speed, the dashboard lights lit up (with a wrench icon and engine light icon), the vehicle speed held ~40-45mph, and the RPMs revved around 4K - Being within ~1/2 mile from the highway exit, we managed to the nurse the car (at low speed and high RPM) to a gas station where it was flat bedded to the same dealer - As of this writing, there has been no diagnostic activity nor timetable for the vehicle’s repair
Seat belts, Feb 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 62 MPH, the passenger’s side front seat belt was unlatched without passenger input. The occupant buckled the seat belt however, the failure recurred. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, and it was diagnosed that the seat latch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.
Power train, Feb 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while the vehicle was started and in park(P) in the driveway, he exited the vehicle to retrieve a package left inside the residence; however, when he returned, the vehicle had rolled down the driveway and struck a light pole across the street from the residence. The contact stated that the vehicle was still in park(P) and the engine was still running. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local body shop. The vehicle was repaired. The contact had not called a local dealer or informed the manufacturer of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train) several months after the failure. The contact related the failure to the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 5,600.
Vehicle speed control, Feb 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle made an abnormal grinding sound and accelerated unintendedly. The contact depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact depressed the brake pedal continuously until the vehicle stopped. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure recurred intermittently while driving from a complete stop. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving downhill, and the vehicle nearly drove into highway traffic. Additionally, the contact stated that the failure had occurred while reversing in a parking lot, nearly causing the vehicle to crash into other vehicles. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer several times to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Engine, Feb 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact had the vehicle towed from the middle of the road to an independent mechanic. The mechanic found that the oil pan was drenched in excess oil indicating a possible oil leak. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine and turbo chargers needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure where it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in any recall. The manufacturer was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 68,000.
Other or unspecified, Visibility, Feb 19, 2024, crash
I have a 2020 Ford Explorer that has had intermittent issues with the passenger side losing heat since aprox 11/18/2023. On Friday 2/16 we had snow begin falling at 7AM locally. I park in the GARAGE. 1/2 way to work, on a major highway, my passenger side began fogging up. The heat was all the way up and there was no way for me to aim my driver-side vents to the other side of the car. After 4-5 minutes, my passenger side was completely fogged up and 1/4-1/3 of the windshield was also completely fogged up. In the 15 minute drive, I could not see anything on the right side of my vehicle and almost missed my exit, hitting a curb and scraping my rim. This is a known issue as there are 2 bulletins out by the NHTSA for my SPECIFIC make, model and years.
Power train, Forward collision avoidance, Back over prevention, Feb 19, 2024, crash
I have had the blue screen sensors replaced 3 times. This has been a recall. Now my front camera is having an error code. Yeh blue screen came on while backing up and I hit a rock. They say it has been fixed but now it is still occurring with the radio freezing and the front camera producing an error. The dealer says there’s no current fix and they have an unable to reproduce it when it is at the dealership because it happens intermittently. I have had the driveshaft replaced and the transmission I am unable to trade this car and due to the multiple safety issues and transmission issues, this car has such a long repair history that it is priced up below market value. I am afraid that I am going to have another accident or something is going to freeze up at an in opportune moment and causes collision as it did before.
Suspension, Feb 12, 2024
The passenger side lower control arm broke in half while backing out of a parking spot at a low rate of speed, not turning very deep.
Power train, Feb 10, 2024
Out of nowhere, there was an issue with downshifting between 4th and 3rd gear. A loud clunking noise started every time on the downshift. I took it to a transmission shop, they diagnosed that there was significant issues downshifting from 8 to 7, 7 to 6, and 4 to 3. I was notified it was still within manufacturers warranty so I took it to a ford dealership. They felt the issue when test driving it then notified me that it needs “a total tear down of the transmission” but didn’t tell me the specifics of the issue. All of this happened without any warning lights showing on the dash.
Power train, Feb 9, 2024
On 02/05/24 my 2020 Explorer XLT alerted me that the pre collision assist was not available, to service advancetrack, Hill Start assist not available, 4wd fault service required, and to see manual. The alert went away after I restarted the car, but it came back on again 02/06/24. In addition to the alerts on the dashboard, the vehicle had delayed acceleration after standing at redlights. I took it to the dealership who told me I needed part #7p238 MOD ASY DRV LN CONTR, they also informed me the part was not covered under my extended warranty plan. I called Ford manufaturers directly, spoke with Miracle who informed me that Ford would not offer any financial assistance with replacing this switch. The price is $770. The vehicle has 70,666 miles.
Engine, Feb 7, 2024
There is an exhaust leak under the car that propagates into the ventilation system and also when a door is open while idling. This is a known issue for some models with the 3.0L engine under emission recall (21E11), but does not include my VIN even though the powertrain is identical. Dealer replaced some flex tubing to try and correct, but that did not work. It's a safety issue because the smell is strong and there's no way to tell how much carbon monoxide is present to the passengers.
Exterior lighting, Feb 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side headlight intermittently failed to illuminate with the "Check Headlamp System See Owner’s Manual" message displayed on the instrument panel. The failure persisted, and the driver’s side headlight also failed to illuminate as needed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the contact was given an estimate for the repair. The contact decided to replace both front headlight modules which corrected the failure; however, the warning message remained on the instrument panel. A week later, the driver’s side headlight failed to illuminate as needed, after which the passenger’s side headlight also failed to operate as designed. The dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 57,000.
Power train, Feb 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer and several unknown dealers were made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Power train, Feb 4, 2024
Randomly one day, the transmission started lurching on downshift between gears 3 and 4. This pattern continued, regardless of driving status without any malfunction indicator lights. This sudden downshift, lurching, caused a rapid decelleration in the vehicle causing me to step on the brakes while in traffic to address the issue. The vehicles issue was identified and confirmed by the dealer and is currently being addressed with no solution being presented. As previously mentioned, this mechanical issue happened suddenly, without any sort of warning lamp or message and without any previous issue and appeared randomly, on a commute home from work.
Other or unspecified, Structure, Feb 2, 2024
The back hatch has opened 4 times with no warning. The vehicle was in motion. First Time September 2021: I was backing out of my garage, the hatch came open and hit my garage door, it bent the hatch and it was repaired by RT Auto Centerville Iowa and garage door had to be replaced. Second time November 2021: I was backing out of my driveway and it came open with no warning, no damage. Third Time October 2022 I was backing out of my garage, the hatch came open and hit my garage door again, no warning, Repaired by Copeland Repair Center Oskaloosa Iowa Fourth Time February 2023: I was backing out of my garage, the Hatch opened with no warning & hit my garage door, the hatch, and camera were completely replaced and the vehicle had to be painted by Copeland Repair Center Oskaloosa Iowa. Prior to the fourth incident, I contacted FORD Motor company and was advised there was no recall or complaints on this issue and was told to go to the FORD Dealership. I went to the Ford dealer and was advised to take the problem to the repair shop, it was not FORD's issue that they had check it and found nothing wrong. Since the camera and hatch have been totally replaced, this has not happened. I am worried to have passengers in the back row seats due to this issue, for fear it will come open and someone will get injured. I purchased this vehicle new in May of 2020 from Junge Motors, North Liberty, Iowa. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I only have one of the 3 Estimates. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6
Power train, Feb 2, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who checked the vehicle visually and became aware that there was fluid leaking from the differential onto the driveshaft. The mechanic referred the contact to a dealer to have the vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V154000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Other or unspecified, Feb 1, 2024
The chrome trim on the 2020 Ford Explorer inside door handle and window switches is separating/peeling off and is very sharp. My neice sliced her finger and was bleeding from the inside passanger door handle chrome that is peeling/separating from the handle when opening the door to exit the vehicle. I have cut my finger on the chrome tipped window switches.
Other or unspecified, Feb 1, 2024
Issues with the rear liftgate opening and closing on its own it will close open and partially close partially open at random in the middle of the night at random it keeps going till it kills my battery It closes when your underneath and causes a safety concern if you were not aware and get out of the way quick enough. Took it to dealership it needs a wiring harness due to corrosion and a switch. I see other people reporting the same with water leaks causing corrosion.
Power train, Service brakes, Jan 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the passenger’s side rear brakes were scraping. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train). The vehicle was repaired; however, the brake failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Other or unspecified, Jan 30, 2024
Failure of panoramic moon roof gasket, and in adequate drainage system installation. This causes substantial water intrusion into vehicle. Flooding of drivers side floor causes extremely slippery and wet conditions when operating the pedals. Water migration into vehicle has potential to impact electronics, causing further damage and dangerous driving conditions. Vehicle has been inspected and problem confirmed by the dealership, who contracted a water leak specialist to identify the issue. No warnings prior to appearance. Issues has been ongoing for the past 3 months - 1,000 miles and 4 months after the end of bumper to bumper warranty.
Lane departure, Back over prevention, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 26, 2024, crash
Drivers assist failed and caused me to cross lanes into the cable barrier on interstate 40 causing 18,000 dollars worth of damage now the parking assist no longer works
Service brakes, Jan 26, 2024
We turned the vehicle on and a parking brake error came up on the dashboard followed by the dashboard lighting up with a lot of warnings. The vehicle was turned off and back on but continued with the error. Because we were out at a store and not home, we tried to drive it. We placed it in reverse and when put in drive, the brakes did not work with engaged. There was a small bumped that was able to stop the vehicle. I called Ford and they offered to run diagnostics on the vehicle for next week but could not guarantee a paid rental for the length of time needed for the repair. After exiting the vehicle, letting it rest for 5 minutes and restarting again, we were able to drive home with the brakes working again.