2026 FORD EXPLORER

11 recalls, 29 complaints

26V470000 Jul 21, 2026
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026-2027 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. An unoccupied driver's seat may recline unintentionally during certain scenarios, such as remote unlock or remote start.
Consequence
Unexpected movement of the driver’s seat back may trap a second-row occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
The remedy is currently under development. The owner notification schedule has not been provided. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S53.
79,579 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V451000 Jul 14, 2026
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
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.
Consequence
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 27, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer s... Read more
387,911 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V343000 May 27, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer, Ranger, and Bronco vehicles. The engine may fail, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Consequence
A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the engine long block, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 5, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's ... Read more
1,536 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V202000 Mar 31, 2026
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Lincoln Aviator and Explorer vehicles. The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system may fail, which can cause the defrosting and defogging system to become inoperative.
Consequence
An inoperative windshield defrosting and defogging system may decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and secure the instrument panel joints as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S22. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this ... Read more
55 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V205000 Mar 31, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer and Mustang vehicles. The engine piston circlips may have been incorrectly installed during manufacturing, which can result in piston failure and engine damage, leading to a loss of drive power.
Consequence
An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S23. Vehicle Identification... Read more
278 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V159000 Mar 17, 2026
SEAT BELTS
Defect Description
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.
Consequence
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
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 Identific... Read more
561 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V121000 Mar 3, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles. The Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when driving through curves in the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of F... Read more
Consequence
A headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The headlight control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C12. Vehicle Identificatio... Read more
35,772 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
26V024000 Jan 21, 2026
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVS... Read more
Consequence
In the event of a crash, windshield detachment can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will remove and replace the windshield, free charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C02. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on... Read more
8 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
25V828000 Dec 1, 2025
ENGINE
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer, Mustang, Lincoln Corsair, and 2025 Maverick vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.
Consequence
An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components increases the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in engine seizure and loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the cylinder head assembly, free of charge. All affected vehicles are still within dealership inventory and therefore no owner notification letters will be mailed. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD3. Vehicle Identif... Read more
6 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
25V730000 Oct 24, 2025
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Lincoln Corsair, Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety... Read more
Consequence
Reduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 6, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C60. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall bec... Read more
56,841 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
25V687000 Oct 10, 2025
TRAILER HITCHES
Defect Description
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.
Consequence
While towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach. Either of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and tighten the trailer hitch bolts, or replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA3. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) i... Read more
1,412 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Complaint Statistics

29 total complaints 1 crashes

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
ENGINE5
POWER TRAIN4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM4
STEERING3
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM2
UNKNOWN OR OTHER2
SERVICE BRAKES2
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING1
SUSPENSION1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING1
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Jul 10, 2026
Incident date: Jul 4, 2026
Purchased brand new vehicle two months ago, only has 2000 miles on it. We took it on vacation 14hours from home. Made it to our destination and started getting “vehicle communication errors” on the screen. Jumped the vehicle, notifications went away. We scheduled an appointment with a local ford... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jul 10, 2026
Incident date: Jul 4, 2026
Purchased brand new vehicle two months ago, only has 2000 miles on it. We took it on vacation 14hours from home. Made it to our destination and started getting “vehicle communication errors” on the screen. Jumped the vehicle, notifications went away. We scheduled an appointment with a local ford... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jul 7, 2026
Incident date: Jul 2, 2026
This 2026 Ford Explorer has stopped, stalled, hesitated and jerks after fuel fill-ups. It stopped twice for myself in busy intersections. The dealer has had it for weeks and when driving the vehicle back to me, stalled and hesitated for Ford Service dept. twice. They told me I could not have my car ... Read more
ENGINE Jul 7, 2026
Incident date: Jul 2, 2026
This 2026 Ford Explorer has stopped, stalled, hesitated and jerks after fuel fill-ups. It stopped twice for myself in busy intersections. The dealer has had it for weeks and when driving the vehicle back to me, stalled and hesitated for Ford Service dept. twice. They told me I could not have my car ... Read more
SEATS Jun 22, 2026
Incident date: May 11, 2026
The contact owns a 2026 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while attempting to make a left or right turn, the front passenger’s side seat was moving from side to side. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the diagnostic result was unknown. The c... Read more
VISIBILITY/WIPER Jun 19, 2026
Incident date: Jun 1, 2026
I have a brand new 2026 Ford Explorer ST. There is a permanent haze on or between the glass windshield that does not come off with any cleaning agent and appears to be between the layer. The service manager at the dealership acknowledges seeing the haze and the reduced clarity but clains Ford will ... Read more
POWER TRAIN Jun 16, 2026
Incident date: May 19, 2026
Description On your vehicle, it may be possible that one or more engine camshaft roller finger followers were not properly installed at the time of engine assembly. Safety Risk An improperly installed engine camshaft roller finger follower may result in engine failure, resulting in a no-start con... Read more
ENGINE Jun 16, 2026
Incident date: May 19, 2026
Description On your vehicle, it may be possible that one or more engine camshaft roller finger followers were not properly installed at the time of engine assembly. Safety Risk An improperly installed engine camshaft roller finger follower may result in engine failure, resulting in a no-start con... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 16, 2026
Incident date: May 19, 2026
Description On your vehicle, it may be possible that one or more engine camshaft roller finger followers were not properly installed at the time of engine assembly. Safety Risk An improperly installed engine camshaft roller finger follower may result in engine failure, resulting in a no-start con... Read more
ENGINE Jun 14, 2026
Incident date: Dec 22, 2025
Description On your vehicle, some of the bolts used to attach the vehicle trailer tow hitch may have below-specification torque. Safety Risk This condition may affect vehicle handling characteristics or lead to loss of attachment of the trailer hitch while towing, increasing the risk of a crash. ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Jun 14, 2026
Incident date: Dec 22, 2025
Description On your vehicle, some of the bolts used to attach the vehicle trailer tow hitch may have below-specification torque. Safety Risk This condition may affect vehicle handling characteristics or lead to loss of attachment of the trailer hitch while towing, increasing the risk of a crash. ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 14, 2026
Incident date: Dec 22, 2025
Description On your vehicle, some of the bolts used to attach the vehicle trailer tow hitch may have below-specification torque. Safety Risk This condition may affect vehicle handling characteristics or lead to loss of attachment of the trailer hitch while towing, increasing the risk of a crash. ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jun 14, 2026
Incident date: Jun 8, 2026
I purchased this new car from Bell Ford on XXX. Since I have owned it, it has been under Ford’s care for almost 2 weeks at 2 different service departments. (I have owned for 90 days.) The car sputters and stops when putting on the gas from a start position. I ended up stalling in a busy intersecti... Read more
STEERING May 27, 2026
Incident date: Mar 24, 2026
I am reporting a persistent steering problem with my 2024 Mazda CX-90. While driving, especially when the highway bends to the left, the steering wheel feels like it sticks or partially locks at a certain left-turn position. When I try to return the steering wheel back toward center to continue stra... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES May 27, 2026
Incident date: Mar 24, 2026
2025 Mazda CX-30 experienced a sudden complete loss of power while driving at highway speed with no prior warning lights or indications of malfunction. Immediately before shutdown, steering became extremely stiff due to loss of power steering assist. Vehicle was steered towards the shoulder during h... Read more
ENGINE May 27, 2026
Incident date: Mar 24, 2026
An antifreeze leak is very hard to locate because Ford’s design placed the water pump INside the engine rather than on the OUTside, which would be more the norm. If antifreeze leaks enough, it gets into the oil and the entire engine stands to be destroyed. Our heater quit blowing warm air recentl... Read more
STEERING May 17, 2026
Incident date: May 9, 2026
Unknown power steering just stopped working and vehichle wont drive
UNKNOWN OR OTHER May 13, 2026
Incident date: May 13, 2026
"The vehicle suffered a critical failure of the shift interlock safety system. After parking in a driveway, the ignition key was able to be fully turned to the 'off' position and removed from the ignition cylinder, even though the transmission was not successfully secured in 'Park.' After the key wa... Read more
Crash
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS May 13, 2026
Incident date: May 13, 2026
During driving all safety systems shutdown and give warning of fault Has happened multiple times at different speeds.
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION May 13, 2026
Incident date: May 13, 2026
During driving all safety systems shutdown and give warning of fault Has happened multiple times at different speeds.
STEERING May 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
The contact owns a 2016 Land Rover. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V514000 (Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed the remedy was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacture... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM May 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
At approximately 1,700 miles, my brand-new 2026 Ford Explorer ST (3.0L EcoBoost) suffered a sudden, catastrophic engine failure while driving, causing an immediate and dangerous loss of motive power. Prior to the failure, the engine experienced severe misfires. Following manufacturer Technical Servi... Read more
ENGINE May 13, 2026
Incident date: Apr 22, 2026
At approximately 1,700 miles, my brand-new 2026 Ford Explorer ST (3.0L EcoBoost) suffered a sudden, catastrophic engine failure while driving, causing an immediate and dangerous loss of motive power. Prior to the failure, the engine experienced severe misfires. Following manufacturer Technical Servi... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Apr 30, 2026
Incident date: Apr 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tundra. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V767000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) and 25V322000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the parts for the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable... Read more
SUSPENSION Apr 23, 2026
Incident date: Apr 21, 2026
When I realized there was a recall, I could not get in right away due to the fact that parts were on back order. I finally got in at Tidelands Ford in Pawleys. They had my vehicle for two weeks and said it was repaired. I knew immediately it wasn’t driving right and the engine was loud. I told the... Read more
POWER TRAIN Apr 19, 2026
Incident date: Apr 19, 2026
Both front CV axles on my 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid are failing at approximately 60,000 miles. The vehicle experiences violent shaking and vibration during acceleration, most noticeably at speeds above 30 mph and on inclines. The shaking is severe enough to affect steering control and reduce driver ... Read more
POWER TRAIN Apr 10, 2026
Incident date: Apr 9, 2026
Dealership stated they fixed recall ref# N252494000 on 9/24/25. But on 4/9/26 noticed engine noise (knocking), then a lose of power and then vehicle stalled on the highway.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING Apr 8, 2026
Incident date: Apr 8, 2026
Lane departure assist, adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking, adaptive high beam, forward collision warning system became unresponsive while driving on highway during trip. Had to take vehicle into GM dealership for ADAS camera replacement.
POWER TRAIN Mar 31, 2026
Incident date: Mar 15, 2026
My vehicle has been saying engine will shut off soon, and loses power . Transmission is the issue as I have had it diagnosed 3 times with the code P0a43. Mazda dealership which I purchased the vehicle verified by running a diagnostic.engine light comes on after the vehicle shuts off. Me and my child... Read more

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD EXPLORER

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

DP25001 Opened: Sep 5, 2025 , Closed: Apr 9, 2026
DP, Closed , Model Year: 2020
Underbody shields detachment
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition on August 22, 2025, requesting a defect investigation into an alleged defect of the “underbody shields” on model year (MY) 2020 Ford Explorer vehicles. The petition alleges premature degradation and detachment of the plastic underbody... Read more
RQ23002 Opened: Jun 20, 2023 , Closed: Feb 15, 2024
RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2020
Rear Axle Bolt Failure
On July 17, 2023, the Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) opened this Recall Query (RQ) after receiving 2 consumer complaints alleging loss of vehicle forward power and/or loss of transmission torque of the rear wheels in model year (MY) 2020-2022 Ford Explorer vehicles (subject vehicles). The RQ w... Read more
PE23001 Opened: Jan 27, 2023 , Closed: Feb 8, 2024
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011
Windshield trim molding Item detachment
On January 27, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-001 to investigate allegations of A-pillar trim panel detachment on model year (MY) 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles. At the time of opening, the office had received 164 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting this fail... Read more
AQ22003 Opened: Dec 16, 2022
AQ, Open , Model Year: 2018
Hertz/Vehicles Rented with Open Recalls
NHTSA is opening this audit query to investigate whether The Hertz Corporation (Hertz) has complied with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (Safety Act). The Safety Act requires, among other things, that a rental company shall not rent a vehicle subject to a safety... Read more
EA17002 Opened: Jul 27, 2017 , Closed: Jan 17, 2023
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2011
Exhaust Odor in Passenger Cab
During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and oc... Read more
PE16008 Opened: Jul 1, 2016 , Closed: Sep 12, 2017
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011
Ford Explorer Exhaust Odor
During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 ... Read more
EA15005 Opened: Sep 28, 2015 , Closed: Nov 2, 2018
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2013
Front Brake Hose Failure
On April 29, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE15-017 to investigate a report alleging incidents of front brake hose failure in model year (MY) 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles used by the Sacramento Police Department in its pursuit driving training program (VOQ ... Read more
PE15017 Opened: Apr 29, 2015 , Closed: Sep 28, 2015
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2015
Front brake hose failure
On April 29, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE15-017 to investigate reports of low-mileage failures of front brake jounce hoses in model year (MY) 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor vehicles operated as training vehicles by the City of Sacramento, California (ODI VOQ No. 1... Read more
PE14027 Opened: Aug 22, 2014 , Closed: Feb 3, 2015
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013
Front brake hose failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-027 based on a report of 13 front brake hose (jounce hose) failures in 11 vehicles in the District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department (DCMPD) fleet of 46 model year (MY) 2013 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor (PI) vehicles (VOQ 10621634).T... Read more
PE12017 Opened: Jun 19, 2012 , Closed: Jun 12, 2014
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011
Electric power steering failure
On May 27, 2014 and amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 179,027 model year (MY) 2011 through 2013 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped wit... Read more
EA09013 Opened: Aug 18, 2009 , Closed: Feb 12, 2013
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2002
Vehicle Rollaway Allegations
This investigation is being closed based on several considerations.By the most inclusive counting of all alleged rollaway incidents (i.e., counting all alleged rollaway incidents and assuming a singular failure mechanism), the incident rate is low, however during EA09-013, ODI identified a number of... Read more
PE09020 Opened: Apr 21, 2009 , Closed: Aug 19, 2009
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
VEHICLE ROLLAWAY ALLEGATIONS
IN RESPONSE TO AN INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) LETTER SENT BY THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI), FORD STATED CONSUMER REPORTS OF HIGHER THAN EXPECTED EFFORTS WHEN SHIFTING INTO AND OUT OF PARK COULD BE A RESULT OF A GROOVE BEING WORN INTO THE SWING ARM RAMP OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE SWING ARM ... Read more
RQ08003 Opened: Jun 23, 2008 , Closed: Oct 24, 2008
RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2004
REAR LIFTGATE GLASS HATCH FAILURE
THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON JUNE 23, 2008, BASED ON 34 COMPLAINTS INVOLVING EIGHT INJURIES IN WHICH THE REAR LIFTGATE GLASS HATCH ON MODEL YEAR 2004 FORD EXPLORERS OR MERCURY MOUNTAINEERS BROKE OFF AND FELL, USUALLY WHILE INDIVIDUALS WERE OPERATING THE GLASS HATCH OR LOADING OR UNLOADING ITEMS ... Read more
PE05037 Opened: Jul 7, 2005 , Closed: Nov 2, 2005
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
STUCK ENGINE THROTTLE
ON JULY 7, 2005, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED STUCK THROTTLE COMPLAINTS IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND MERCURY MOUNTAINEER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE STANDARD AVAILABLE 4.0L SOHC V6 ENGINE.AT THAT TIME, ODI WAS AW... Read more
PE04045 Opened: Jun 2, 2004 , Closed: Sep 28, 2004
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
REAR LIFTGATE GLASS ASSEMBLY
COMPLAINTS REPORT FAILURE OF THE REAR LIFTGATE GLASS SUPPORT WHILE THE OPERATOR IS OPENING OR CLOSING THE GLASS.THE FALLING GLASS CAN STRIKE THE OPERATOR OR BYSTANDER.THE INJURIES REPORTED ARE BRUISES TO THE HEAD, NECK OR BACK, CUTS TO THE FACE, ARM OR HAND.ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2004, FORD NOTIFIED THE AG... Read more
PE03020 Opened: May 21, 2003 , Closed: Sep 5, 2003
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1998
FRONT SEAT BACK RECLINER ATTACHMENT
BY LETTER DATED AUGUST 4, 2003, FORD NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT IS CONDUCTING A VOLUNTARY SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NO. 03V281) INVOLVING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 1998-2001 FORD EXPLORER / MERCURY MOUNTAINEER 4-DOOR, MY 1998-2000 FORD EXPLORER 2-DOOR AND MY 2001-2002 FORD EXPLORER SPORT AND SPORT ... Read more
EA02010 Opened: Jul 2, 2002 , Closed: Feb 25, 2003
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2002
MIS-ASSEMBLED AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING
IN JULY 2001, FORD ISSUED A SPECIAL SERVICE MESSAGE ANNOUNCING THAT SOME AIR BAGCLOCKSPRING DEVICES MAY PRODUCE NOISE WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS TURNED FULL LEFT OR RIGHT.FORD WAS AWARE THAT SOME CLOCKSPRINGS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED.THE IMPROPER INSTALLATION MAY ALSO CAUSE AN OPEN CIRCUIT... Read more
EA02011 Opened: Jul 2, 2002 , Closed: May 21, 2003
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1995
SAFETY BELT ASSEMBLY FAILURE
ODI RECEIVED 18 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND FORD IDENTIFIED ANOTHER FOUR REPORTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE ALLEGED DEFECT.MOST OF THE COMPLAINTS INDICATE INABILITY TO LATCH THE DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE CAUSED BY A BROKEN LATCH RELEASE SPRING.NONE OF THESE 22 REPORTS RESULTED IN ANY INJURIES OR CRASHES.NO COMPL... Read more
PE02007 Opened: Jan 23, 2002 , Closed: Jul 2, 2002
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995
SAFETY BELT ASSEMBLY
SQ01015 Opened: Dec 12, 2001 , Closed: Jul 2, 2002
SQ, Closed , Model Year: 2002
INOPERATIVE AIR BAG SYSTEM
EA01008 Opened: Feb 26, 2001 , Closed: Apr 25, 2002
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1999
SEAT BELT WEBBING
ODI OPENED PE00-044INVESTIGATION ON NOVEMBER 3, 2000, BASED ON A REPORT REGARDING THE DEATH OF THE OCCUPANT OF THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT IN A 2000 MODEL YEAR FORD EXPLORER XLS INVOLVED IN A ROLL-OVER CRASH.IT IS ALLEGED THAT THE WEBBING OF THE BUCKLE PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY FAILED DURING THE CR... Read more
PE00044 Opened: Nov 3, 2000 , Closed: Feb 26, 2001
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2000
SEAT BELT WEBBING
ODI OPENED THIS INVESTIGATION ON NOVEMBER 3, 2000, BASED ON A REPORT REGARDING THE DEATH OF THE OCCUPANT OF THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT IN A 2000 MODEL YEAR FORD EXPLORER XLS INVOLVED IN A ROLL-OVER CRASH.IT IS ALLEGED THAT THE WEBBING OF THE BUCKLE PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY FAILED DURING THE CRASH... Read more
PE00039 Opened: Sep 20, 2000 , Closed: Nov 30, 2000
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995
FRONT SUSPENSION STABILIZER BAR LINK
There is no summary currently available
EA00012 Opened: Apr 14, 2000 , Closed: Oct 20, 2000
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
SPARE TIRE WINCH CABLE
There is no summary currently available
PE99072 Opened: Nov 30, 1999 , Closed: Apr 14, 2000
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
SPARE TIRE WINCH CABLE
FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE 1991 MODEL YEAR PRODUCTION UNTIL THE MIDDLE OF THE 1994 MODEL YEAR PRODUCTION, FORD USED A GALVANIZED STEEL CABLE TO LIFT AND HOLD IN STORED POSITION, THE EXPLORER SPARE TIRE.ON MAY 19, 1994, BASED ON THE RESULTS OF FORD DURABILITY TESTING , FORD CHANGED TO A 4.00MM STAINLE... Read more
SQ99026 Opened: Nov 19, 1999 , Closed: May 23, 2000
SQ, Closed , Model Year: 1999
AIRBAG SYSTEM'S LIGHT DYSFUNCTIONAL
There is no summary currently available
PE99068 Opened: Nov 1, 1999 , Closed: Mar 9, 2000
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995
ACCELERATOR PEDAL
There is no summary currently available
RQ99016 Opened: Jul 29, 1999
RQ, Open , Model Year: 1991
LIFTGATE SUPPORT BRACKET FAILURE
SUMMARY:ON AUGUST 22, 1995, FORD CONDUCTED SAFETY RECALL, 95V-164, ON 1992 AND 1993 MODEL YEAR EXPLORER DUE TO LIFTGATE FAILURES.THE REAR LIFTGATE HYDRAULIC CYLINDER BRACKET CAN BECOME UNATTACHED ALLOWING THE LIFTGATE TO SUDDENLY DROP.THE RECALL REMEDY WAS TO INSTALL REINFORCEMENTS ON THE BRACKETS.F... Read more
PE99049 Opened: Jul 28, 1999 , Closed: Apr 24, 2000
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1997
WINDSHIELD WIPER MALFUNCTION
There is no summary currently available
PE99045 Opened: Jul 6, 1999 , Closed: Oct 29, 1999
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1997
STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATIONS
There is no summary currently available
SQ99017 Opened: Jun 9, 1999 , Closed: Feb 22, 2000
SQ, Closed , Model Year: 1998
VEHICLE HESITATION/STALLING
There is no summary currently available
EA99004 Opened: Jan 15, 1999 , Closed: Apr 18, 2000
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1992
BLOWER ASSEMBLY FIRES
BASED ON THE RELATIVELY LOW FAILURE FREQUENCY MEASURED OVER AN EXTENDED EXPOSURE TIME AND THE FACT THAT THE GREAT MAJOITY OF INCIDENTS ARE CONFINED WITHIN THE BLOWER HOUSING, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF THE AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO... Read more
EA99001 Opened: Jan 7, 1999 , Closed: Feb 9, 2001
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1997
THROTTLE STICKING
ON JANUARY 23, 1997, FORD MOTOR COMPANY ISSUED SPECIAL SERVICE MESSAGE (SSM) 10240, ANNOUNCING THAT A REVISED THROTTLE BODY WOULD BE AVAILABLE DURING THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1997 FOR 1997 MODEL YEAR FORD EXPLORERS EQUIPPED WITH THE 4.0L SINGLE OVERHEAD CAM (SOHC) ENGINE.THE SSM STATED THE REVISED THROT... Read more
RQ98020 Opened: Nov 3, 1998 , Closed: Nov 15, 2000
RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1997
FUEL LINE DAMAGE FROM JUMP STARTING
There is no summary currently available
DP98008 Opened: Sep 4, 1998 , Closed: Sep 11, 1998
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1992
HEATER BLOWER ASSEMBLY FIRE
There is no summary currently available
PE98048 Opened: Sep 4, 1998 , Closed: Jan 15, 1999
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1992
BLOWER ASSEMBLY FIRES
There is no summary currently available
SQ98014 Opened: Jul 31, 1998 , Closed: Jan 7, 1999
SQ, Closed , Model Year: 1997
THROTTLE STICKING
There is no summary currently available
DP98001 Opened: Jan 6, 1998 , Closed: Feb 4, 1998
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1991
HEAVY LATERAL VIBRATION
NHTSA WAS PETITIONED TO COMMENCE A DEFECT INVESTIGATION OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ON JANUARY 6, 1998.THE PETITION ALLEGES THAT EARLY MODEL FORD EXPLORER SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES DEVELOP HEAVY LATERAL VIBRATIONS AT SPEEDS ABOVE 55 MPH AND WHEN ENCOUNTERING BUMPS AT LOW SPEEDS.THE PETITION FURTHER ALLEGES... Read more
EA97011 Opened: May 23, 1997 , Closed: Jan 20, 1998
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
SUNROOF SHATTERING AND SEPARATION
There is no summary currently available
PE97010 Opened: Mar 13, 1997 , Closed: Sep 4, 1997
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995
ELECTRICAL FIRE IN CENTER CONSOLE
THIS INVESTIGATION REVEALED THAT CONSOLE FIRES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MOST OFTEN OCCURRED WHILE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE LAMP OUTAGE MODULE (LOM), WHICH IS PART OF THE MESSAGE CENTER, WERE TOWING A TRAILER AND WHICH HAD BEEN MODIFIED BY ADDING AN AFTERMARKET TRAILER WIRING HARNESS INTO THE VEHICL... Read more
PE96074 Opened: Dec 17, 1996 , Closed: May 23, 1997
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1992
SUNROOF (AIR ROOF) SHATTER
THE SUNROOF SHATTERED OR WAS BLOWN OFF.IN ALL BUT ONE CASE THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING.
PE96066 Opened: Nov 22, 1996 , Closed: May 15, 1997
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1993
DRIVER DOOR ELECTRICAL FIRE
THE CONTACT ASSEMBLY FOR THE REMOTE POWER MIRROR CONTROL SWITCH MAY DEVELOP A SHORT CIRCUIT BETWEEN THE SWITCH POSITIVE PAD AND CHASSIS GROUND PAD AS A RESULT OF WATER INTRUSION.EXCESS CURRENT FLOW RESULTING FROM THE SHORT CIRCUIT CONDITION MAY OVERHEAT THE REMOTE POWER MIRROR CONTROL SWITCH CIRCUIT... Read more
EA96017 Opened: Jul 24, 1996 , Closed: Oct 29, 1999
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1993
BRAKE SYSTEM MALFUNCTION
There is no summary currently available
PE96016 Opened: Feb 28, 1996 , Closed: Jul 24, 1996
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1993
WHEEL LOCKUP WITH ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
ODI HAS RECEIVED OND HUNDRED SEVENTY-THREE (173) CONSUMER COMPLAINTS OF ALLEGED FAILURES OR MALFUNCTIONS IN THE BRAKING SYSTEM ON CERTAIN 1993 AND 1994 FORD EXPLORERS.THESE ALLEGED FAILURES OR MALFUNCTIONS ARE REPORTED TO HAVE CAUSED THIRTY-SIX (36) ACCIDENTS RESULTING FROM VEHICLE LOSS OF DIRECTION... Read more
EA95018 Opened: Jun 19, 1995 , Closed: Apr 2, 1996
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
SEPARATION OF MASTER CYLINDER
FORD CONTINUES TO SUDY THE PROBLEM ATTEMPTING TO DETERMINE WHY STUD FRACTURES ARE NOT FREQUENTLY OCCURRING IN OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY.LIKEWISE, ODI CONTINUES GATHERING INFORMATION TO ASCERTAIN WHETHER THE RECALL SCOPE SHOULD INCLUDE OTHER GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS.IF EVIDENCE INDICATES THE SCOPE SHOULD ... Read more
PE95001 Opened: Jan 3, 1995 , Closed: Jun 19, 1995
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER/BOOSTER SEPARATION
There is no summary currently available
PE94044 Opened: Jun 10, 1994 , Closed: Aug 31, 1994
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
ENGINE COOLING FAN CRACKS
There is no summary currently available
EA93004 Opened: Jan 29, 1993 , Closed: Jul 29, 1994
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1992
AUTO TRANS PRNDL MISALIGN
There is no summary currently available
EA93003 Opened: Jan 15, 1993 , Closed: Jan 6, 1994
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
THROTTLE STICKING
There is no summary currently available
PE92078 Opened: Sep 9, 1992 , Closed: Jan 29, 1993
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1992
AUTO TRANS.PRNDL MISALIGN
There is no summary currently available
EA91040 Opened: Oct 3, 1991 , Closed: Aug 17, 1992
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
VACUUM BOOSTR VALVE FAILS
There is no summary currently available
EA91034 Opened: Jul 17, 1991 , Closed: Apr 10, 1992
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
THROTTLE RELEASE FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE91084 Opened: Jun 10, 1991 , Closed: Oct 3, 1991
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
VACUUM BOOSTR VALVE FAILS
There is no summary currently available
PE91058 Opened: Mar 6, 1991 , Closed: Jul 22, 1991
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
THROTTLE RELEASE FAILURE
There is no summary currently available

FORD EXPLORER - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the FORD EXPLORER across all model years (1991, 2027).

386 Total Recalls
43,121 Total Complaints
54 Investigations
2,520 Reported Crashes
1,069 Reported Fires
301 Reported Deaths

FORD EXPLORER - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2027 1 0 View
2026 (current) 11 29
2025 19 135 View
2024 10 26 View
2023 15 147 View
2022 24 342 View
2021 26 532 View
2020 33 1,638 View
2019 6 328 View
2018 7 864 View
2017 14 2,021 View
2016 15 3,007 View
2015 9 2,190 View
2014 7 2,040 View
2013 12 2,781 View
2012 7 1,027 View
2011 8 1,495 View
2010 2 155 View
2009 1 49 View
2008 3 216 View
2007 3 271 View
2006 4 788 View
2005 3 604 View
2004 4 1,647 View
2003 7 1,369 View
2002 10 4,096 View
2001 12 503 View
2000 15 1,203 View
1999 15 1,737 View
1998 14 2,374 View
1997 12 2,150 View
1996 11 1,818 View
1995 12 1,048 View
1994 7 1,531 View
1993 9 1,151 View
1992 7 848 View
1991 11 764 View
1990 0 12 View
1989 0 1 View
1988 0 7 View
1987 0 3 View
1986 0 3 View
1985 0 1 View
1984 0 1 View
1977 0 2 View

Other FORD Models

Model Recalls Complaints
MUSTANG 1,104 11,600 View
RANGER 928 10,371 View
F-350 SD 776 2,363 View
F-150 692 46,142 View
F-450 SD 692 624 View
F-250 SD 638 3,635 View
F-550 SD 578 603 View
EXPEDITION 555 11,534 View