2021 Ford Explorer
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 429 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 17th highest complaint count among 26 Explorer model years with reports.
Of the 2021 reports, 14 involved a crash and 5 involved a fire. 16 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
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpJul 7, 2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
Campaign 25V455000 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
Engine and engine cooling, engine, hard parts internal/mechanicalAug 23, 2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
Campaign 24V635000 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
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
Suspension, rearNov 10, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Incorrect rear suspension module components may have been installed due to a labeling error.
A rear suspension module with incorrect components may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the rear suspension module, and replace any incorrect parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S47.
Campaign 21V870000 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
Air bags, side/window, curtainAug 23, 2021
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag attachment weld studs could detach during the deployment of the side air bag, resulting in an improper deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214, "Side Impact Protection".
Improper deployment of a side air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Dealers will replace the side air bag assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C19.
Campaign 21V652000 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
Representative owner complaints: other or unspecified
84 reports, newest first. Show all
Other or unspecified, Oct 12, 2025
I bought the car brand new in 2021. It handled great, no issues, not even on extremely icy roads. The temporary fix for Recall 22S27 was done in July 2023 which was just a computer flash to set the park brake each time the car was put into park. Each time I put it in gear the car would make a loud noise as the park brake released. I immediately felt a difference when driving, it felt like the front end was "floating" and the car wasn't holding to the road. On dry roads it would be unstable if the road wasn't perfectly smooth. Driving in the winter on icy roads was scary, no control, it would fish back and forth. They performed the actual fix recall 23S55 in May 2024. They did not remove the temporary fix that sets the park brake. In January 2025 I was in a flat parking lot, icy and raining, I had NO control. There were 5 mornings with those road conditions that I couldn't make it 1/8 of a mile. Absolutely no control, it pushed me all over the road and when I braked, it continued to push me all over the road. It never showed warning lights on my dash. My local dealership pulled codes, told me it was a park brake module code but they couldn't do anything until they could duplicate it. I have spent the last 9 months arguing with the dealership and winter is almost here with no help, they treat me like I'm crazy and told me that I'm the only person in the world with this problem. I just traded it off yesterday, lost a bunch of money, but I couldn't go through another winter with it. It's way too dangerous!
Exterior lighting, Other or unspecified, Oct 12, 2025
LED LIGHT ISSUE. PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM. LIFETIME OF LED SHOULD BE 45,000 HOURS OR 12-15 YEARS. IT IS NOT WORKING. FORD NEEDS TO GENERATE A REPAIR ALSO CURRENT WARRANTEE WORK NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED INCLUDING THE REAR CAMERA.
Other or unspecified, Sep 25, 2025
I bought my 2021 ford explorer limited brand new. I have never used the sunroof for my personal pleasure. I have opened it less than a handful of times, only to appease my grandson. The other day, I had my grandaon and I closed the sunroof, for maybe like the 4th time ever, and the sunshade liner started to sag. If this falls while I am driving I am afraid it may blind my driving. Should FORD have to pay for this defect? I am seeing forums all over the internet where this is happening to a lot of owners. Thanks for your time and help.
Other or unspecified, Aug 31, 2025
Sunroof shade won't open and bind down covering the rear mirror view
Other or unspecified, Aug 19, 2025
FOR THE PAST YEAR AND A HALD I HAVE TAKEN MY VEHICLE TO FORD IN ONTARIO BECAUSE IT HAS HAD NUMEROUS INCIDENTS THAT I AM AT A LIGHT AND THE VEHICLE COMPLETY SHUTS OFF. WHEN I HAVE TAKEN IT IN THEY RETURN IT STATING THAT NOTHING ID WRONG WITH THE CAR. THIS MONTH ALONE IT HAS HAPPENNED ATLEATT 5 TIMES. LATEST ONE BEING THIS MORNING ON MY WAY TO WORK. IT SHUT OFF LUCKYLY I AM GETTING FASTER AT 1ST PRESSING ON MY HAZARDS AND THEN RESUMING THE ENGINE AND TAKING OFF THE PARKING BRAKE I AM IN FEAR OF BEING IN A COLLISION. I CALLED DEALER TODAY THEY SAID ALL THEY CAN DO IS KEEP THE CAR AGAIN FOR SEVERAL DAYS BUT IF NOTHING IS FOUND AGAIN I HAVE TO PAY FOR THE RENTAL CAR OUT OF POCKET. THIS IS CRAZY AS MY SELF AND MY FAMILY ARE AT RISK EVERY TIME THE CAR SHUTS OFF WE HAVE BEEN BLESSED NOT TO HAVE BEEN REAR ENDED. THERE ARE NO WARNING LAMPS THAT TURN ON.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Aug 8, 2025
Automatic roll up sun shade for the sunroof sags and does not retract anymore, causing visibility issues as it droops down. Car is out of factory bumper to bumper warranty, currently 52k miles, and the aftermarket warranty does not cover the shade. Ford quoted over $2000 for fix, when this is a manufacturer's defect and many cars are affected.
Other or unspecified, Aug 8, 2025
I was driving and pressed the button to open my sunroof (which has a powered sunshade) but the sunshade dropped down on top of the 2nd row seats, blocking my view through my rear view mirror and rear window completely. I made an appointment with my Ford dealer the next day. The dealer had my vehicle for over 30 days waiting for parts to fix the tensioner system that pulls the powered sunshade back in order for the sunroof to open. I've seen in multiple forums online that this has happened to a lot of other people that has this option on their Ford Explorers (2020-2024) models. This was definitely a safety hazard as I was unable to see anything behind me while I was moving and luckily I didn't panic. I pulled over slowly to the soft shoulder in order to try and get the sunshade to at least go back to it's "closed" state which it finally did after trying for a few minutes. I think Ford needs to make this a recall because of the safety issues of this blocking the view of the driver.
Other or unspecified, Aug 8, 2025
The auto/stop start system is malfunctioning. When I stop at a stop sign, or to turn left, the vehicle stops, but then does not turn on again when I press the gas pedal. Instead, I have to place the car in park and manually restart the engine. This has happened four times over a 2-month period. Sometimes it takes me 30 seconds to turn the car back on. This is harrowing when I am suddenly stuck in the middle of the road. I took my vehicle to the Ford Dealership after it happened three times. They had my vehicle for 3 weeks but could not find anything wrong, and the incident did not happen again. I’ve had my vehicle back for 6 days, and it happened again today at a stop sign. Suddenly, there was a message on my screen to place my car in park and restart the engine. There were many other cars waiting for me to turn.
Other or unspecified, Aug 5, 2025
Center console cup holder base failure causing items to fall through and into the interior of the console. My key fob fell through the bottom and required nearly an hour to be retrieved. The problem is persistent with anything placed into the cup holder. This issue is common and well documented on forums and social media.
Other or unspecified, Jul 21, 2025
Panoramic sunroof fail for 2nd time repair is close to 2000$ I’m not going to paid again this is a ford design issue not a owner fault Panoramic roof have some plastic click that hold the shade and they got brake or damage by itself causing the shade felt, ford rapair is close to 1.8k$ I paid one when I first bought the car now after the Texas freeze when I was closing the system I heard the clicks braking and then we have the same issue with the panoramic shade got weak and there is no way to fixed just the deal and the price is close to 2000$ for a internal design there is several people with this same issue this is a internal fault design not a owner fault
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Engine, Jul 14, 2025
I was stoped at a red light with cars in front of me and behind me when with my foot on the break the car accelerated forward like my foot was on the gas pedal but my foot was not on pedal, the car surged forward and came close to hitting the car in front of me I pressed the break and got stopped didn’t happen again but sometimes I can feel the car wanting to keep surging forward when breaking. If there is a problem this could cause me to hit someone in the rear or even worse could hit a pedestrian in the crosswalk please check this out
Other or unspecified, Jul 2, 2025
Backup camera has failed again aftyer being programmed twice and replaced once under recall's. But now it's out completely. It has worked off and on since new.
Other or unspecified, Jun 9, 2025
Sun roof clips broke causing sunroof shade to sag
Other or unspecified, Jun 4, 2025
The electronic sunshade that covers the panoramic sunroof has malfunctioned and cannot be retracted fully. The sagging sun shade covers the rear window and blocks the view. I have taken it to the dealership for repair, but it is not covered under my extended warranty and is around $2000.00 to repair out of pocket. The dealership charged a $199.99 diagnostic fee to ascertain that it was the sunroof shade that had broken. There were no symptoms or warnings before this happened.
Other or unspecified, May 23, 2025
The rear axle bolt snapped. Causing the differential to fall out and rear wheel axles and driveshaft to break out of position.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Apr 28, 2025
Moon roof cover is sagging and interfering with visibility with the rear view mirror. There have been many incidents of the sagging occurring online in for forums. There have been no warning notices for this issue
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 25, 2025
My vehicle is having the blue screen & message to contact my dealer when in reverse. I understand there is a recall for this. I contacted ford to see why I haven't received a notice & am being told that it only affects certain vehicles yet I'm having the exact issue. It is a safety hazard due to low visibility behind the vehicle when in reverse.
Other or unspecified, Mar 24, 2025
When vehicle is in reverse, the car still moves forward. Dealership said there is no fix. I was almost hit the other day because I couldn’t reverse quick enough.
Other or unspecified, Mar 24, 2025
Car has a delay when going into reverse & will move forward while in reverse then jerks into reverse. Also has a delay in going into drive from reverse. Not safe to back out into the road or doing a 3 point turn because of the delays. It happens all the time so the incident happens every day for me.
Other or unspecified, Mar 10, 2025
Sunshade cover for sunroof malfunctioned and it hangs down causing a visibility issue as it obstructs the view from the rear view mirror. After doing a search on Reddit and the Ford forum, it seems to be a common issue. My vehicle only has 35,000 miles on it and this should not be happening.
Other or unspecified, Feb 17, 2025
I purchased my Explorer used last March. The window switches, on driver and passenger sides (front seats and rear seats) have the black metal pieces peeling off the switch. Metal pieces are sharp and I continue to cut my fingers on them. The dealer shows the recall did not affect my car, yet they are all in need of replacement. My vehicle has faulty window switches and I am asking Ford to replace them under recall or warranty.
Other or unspecified, Jan 23, 2025
Fuel Sloshing When vehicle accelerates, brakes, or turns, the fuel moves within the tank, creating waves and sloshing. This can be heard as well when you come to a stop and road noise is less. You can also feel the sloshing on your foot under the driver's side. Excessive fuel sloshing can lead to instability, affecting the vehicle's center of gravity and causing handling issues, especially in extreme maneuvers. I've reported to dealership and Ford manufacturer but they say this is normal operation of vehicle.
Steering, Suspension, Other or unspecified, Jan 13, 2025
Queja por reparación defectuosa de recall en mi Ford Explorer Estimados Señores: Por medio de la presente, me dirijo a ustedes para expresar mi profunda insatisfacción con el servicio recibido en su concesionario relacionado con un problema de recall en mi Ford Explorer [indicar modelo y año del vehículo], cuya reparación, realizada bajo su supervisión, no ha sido adecuada. En los primeros meses de 2024, llevé mi vehículo a sus instalaciones debido a un recall emitido por Ford, relacionado con un sonido de media frecuencia resonante (de tono profundo) que se manifiesta al conducir a baja velocidad sobre superficies irregulares. Según se me informó, este problema fue causado por un defecto en una pieza, la cual supuestamente fue reemplazada en su momento. Sin embargo, después de meses de lidiar con el inconveniente inicial y tras un extenso tiempo de espera, el problema parecía haberse solucionado temporalmente. Desafortunadamente, en noviembre de 2024, el problema ha reaparecido exactamente con las mismas características, lo que me lleva a sospechar que no se realizó un reemplazo adecuado de la pieza defectuosa, sino únicamente un ajuste superficial. Al comunicarme nuevamente con su concesionario, se me ha informado que no pueden hacer nada más porque el supuesto reemplazo ya se realizó. Este tipo de respuesta es inaceptable, considerando que: 1.El problema persiste y claramente no fue solucionado de manera definitiva. 2.El recall original fue emitido para garantizar la seguridad y funcionalidad del vehículo, lo cual no se está cumpliendo. 3.Como cliente, esperaba un servicio honesto y de calidad, especialmente tratándose de un problema cubierto por un recall oficial. Solicito formalmente que este caso sea reabierto y revisado nuevamente, ya que mi confianza en la calidad de los servicios proporcionados se ha visto seriamente afectada. Espero que Ford y su concesionario asuman la responsabilidad correspondiente y brinden una solución definitiva al problema
Suspension, Other or unspecified, Dec 28, 2024
Recently brought my 2021 Ford Explorer with 100,000 miles in for what I thought was a wheel bearing issue. The mechanic reports the entire rear end is gone and needs to be replaced. I’ve owned at least 4 Explorers all driven well over 170,000 without ever having this issue. This car also spent the first 3/4 months I owned it at the Ford garage getting the electrical replaced and “brains”. The crash alert system malfunctioned as did the locking system.
Other or unspecified, Dec 25, 2024
The class three hitch receiver is well above an acceptable tolerance causing the hitch to move within the receiver and cause damage to the receiver. This abundance of "play" in the receiver was duplicated with a brand new hitch as well. My safety as well as others was put at risk through the risk of excessive torque being applied to the hitch/receiver through it's overly large size potentially causing it to break. This problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer nor been inspected. The part has not failed, but is likely to fail through continued use. ***Plastic deformation has occurred within the hitch receiver because of its excessive size.