Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2020 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2020 Ford Explorer SUV RWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
No public crash-test footage is available for this vehicle.
Recalls (33)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRINGCampaign 19V687000 · 30/09/2019
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINERCampaign 19V633000 · 28/08/2019
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."
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTIONCampaign 23V305000 · 28/04/2023
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."
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARECampaign 25V442000 · 27/06/2025
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGECampaign 20V730000 · 24/11/2020
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONCampaign 26V402000 · 24/06/2026
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.
Risk: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)Campaign 23V199000 · 24/03/2023
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 20V575000 · 23/09/2020
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."
Risk: Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 23V022000 · 23/01/2023
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.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARECampaign 21V735000 · 22/09/2021
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.
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERSCampaign 20V497000 · 21/08/2020
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- ENGINECampaign 20V788000 · 17/12/2020
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- SEAT BELTSCampaign 26V159000 · 17/03/2026
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.
Risk: A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLYCampaign 26V451000 · 14/07/2026
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.
Risk: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARECampaign 25V159000 · 14/03/2025
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.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFTCampaign 25V166000 · 14/03/2025
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- SEAT BELTSCampaign 25V093000 · 14/02/2025
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.
Risk: A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLYCampaign 25V393000 · 13/06/2025
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.
Risk: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 23V342000 · 12/05/2023
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.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFTCampaign 20V693000 · 10/11/2020
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATERCampaign 25V685000 · 10/10/2025
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.
Risk: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
- SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLYCampaign 20V549000 · 10/09/2020
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.
Risk: Vehicles with seat belt buckles that are not properly secured may fail to restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- ENGINECampaign 24V598000 · 10/08/2024
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.
Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
- SUSPENSION:REARCampaign 21V154000 · 10/03/2021
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.
Risk: Broken RLCA bolts can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)Campaign 23V069000 · 10/02/2023
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.
Risk: A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Fix: 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.
- EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELSCampaign 24V852000 · 08/11/2024
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."
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERYCampaign 23V626000 · 08/09/2023
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERACampaign 24V188000 · 08/03/2024
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."
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFTCampaign 23V675000 · 06/10/2023
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)Campaign 19V575000 · 05/08/2019
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."
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGSCampaign 19V859000 · 04/12/2019
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.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARECampaign 26V123000 · 03/03/2026
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."
Risk: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTORCampaign 26V117000 · 03/03/2026
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.
Risk: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- POWER TRAIN189
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER97
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM84
- ENGINE54
- BACK OVER PREVENTION46
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE33
- SERVICE BRAKES32
- VISIBILITY/WIPER24
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/31/2025· POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCECrash
On December 26, at approximately 7:08 p.m., I was driving on the Belt Parkway during a snowstorm. I was traveling in the middle lane and began to safely change lanes to the right. During the lane change, the vehicle’s four-wheel-drive system suddenly displayed an error and appeared to malfunction. Immediately after this occurred, I lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle veered to the right, struck the median, and flipped over twice before coming to rest on its side. Prior to the system error, I was operating the vehicle normally and driving cautiously given the weather conditions. The loss of control occurred abruptly and without warning.
- 12/31/2023· SEATS
When parked with the vehicle running a passenger exited the rear seat behind the driver. When they closed the door the drivers seat moved all the way forward and the seat back also moved forward pinning the driver to the steering wheel. After a few seconds the driver was able to move the seat back from the steering wheel. Not sure if there is a setting for the electric seats to move forward like that but it should not do it with the driver in it.
- 12/30/2025· POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Vehicle did not want to shift above 35 mph. When letting off gas - harsh downshift (with no break lights) at 25mph. Diagnosed transmission problem - repaired- Ford dealership rebuilt transmission. No warnings or messages prior to failure.
- 12/30/2021· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Adaptive headlamp assembly on my 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum AWD has failed twice in 2-years. First, upon receiving the vehicle, the passenger side had to be replaced (dealer was unable to fix the problem, so had to replace the whole headlamp assembly which requires a complete removal of the front bumper). Now the driver side headlamp has failed - and I haven't even had the car 2-years yet (will be 2-years in a few weeks). The headlamp failure is complicated by the long lead time to get the replacement part for the whole headlamp assembly - so now I am WEEKS without being able to have a headlight and am forced to drive without it.
- 12/29/2020· UNKNOWN OR OTHERCrash
I HAVE A 2020 EXPLORER PLATINUM. I HAVE OWNED IT FOR LESS THAN 30 DAYS. MILEAGE AT TIME OF ACCIDENT IS 6853. I WAS TRAVELING ON A TWO LANE COUNTRY ROAD, THERE WAS ABOUT ONE INCH OF FRESH SNOW ON THE ROAD. I WAS DRIVING 20MPH. I CAME TO AN S CURVE THAT I WAS FAMILIAR WITH. I SLOWED TO 10MPH. I BEGAN MY TURN TO THE RIGHT, I LOST ALL STEERING, WAS FIGHTING WITH THE WHEEL, THEN SLID INTO A GUARD RAIL. BODY DAMAGE WAS MILD/MODERATE. HOWEVER STEERING WAS OUT AT THAT POINT. I RECEIVED A FLURRY OF ERROR MESSAGES HILL START ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE / REVERSE BRAKE ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE / PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE / SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC. I NOTIFIED BOTH MY INSURANCE AND FORD MOTOR COMPANY. I TOWED IT HOME MYSELF. THEN IT WAS TOWED FROM MY HOME TO THE DEALER.
- 12/28/2023· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle independently downshifted without warning. The vehicle also hesitated or lost motive power upon depression of the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked forward before resuming normal driving operation. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where a diagnostic test was performed. The dealer later diagnosed the vehicle with transmission failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000.
- 12/28/2022· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Braking system stopped working. I had no breaks on the Highway! All systems lit up on my dash. Thankfully I was able to coast down the side of road in neutral until the car stopped. Whole time I was holding the brake down to the floor. Upon stopping it automatically threw into park. I turned the car off and then started again and everything seemed fine. I was scared to death to even drive it any further. I took it to the dealership to have it looked at. I see this is a problem with 2020 explorers and it needs to recalled. Someone is going be seriously injured or even die in the event of a wreck from this issue
- 12/28/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Our radio/navigational/climate control screen will go completely black while driving the vehicle. This has happened approximately 15 times since the purchase of the brand new car in August of 2020. Therefore, I lose all of my controls and my GPS. This will not come back on until the car is turned off and is given time to reset. This reset time varies from 30 minutes to 1 hour. The first time this occurred was one month after purchasing the vehicle. So, after three different visits to Ford dealerships, Hopkins Ford, Manning Ford and Dundee Ford, not one technician can duplicate this problem so it is still happening. Recently, I was in Columbus, Ohio and the screen went black while I was driving in an unfamiliar area. I'm aware that Ford had a massive recall on this very issue but somehow our VIN number is not included in this. I frequently travel across the Midwest because my fifteen year old daughter is in travel volleyball. I cannot afford for safety reasons for this to happen to the two of us when we are driving in unfamiliar places. This is a huge safety concern for my daughter and I.
- 12/28/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The chrome plating on the interior door handle is peeling away from the handle structure, creating a sharp edge that has the potential to lacerate a person's finger(s) as they pull the handle to open the door. This defect cut my middle finger on my left hand fairly deep, causing bleeding, but did not require stitches.
- 12/28/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
DOOR LATCH FAILURE. DOOR WILL NO SHUT. STUCK OPEN.
- 12/28/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
THE FIRST ISSUE WAS WITH THE CAR ACCELERATING WITHOUT PRESSING THE GAS. RPMS WOULD INCREASE AND CAR WOULD SOUND AS IF IT WAS ACCELERATING AS WELL, WHEN SLOWING DRIVING THROUGH A PARKING GARAGE. THE CAR ALSO DOWN SHIFTS AND ACCELERATES ROUGHLY. IT IS NOT SMOOTH WHEN TRANSITIONING TO ACCELERATION OR DE ACCELERATION. WHEN BRAKING THE CAR JERKS UNTIL STOPPED ENOUGH TO WHERE OUR HEADS JERK. PUTTING CAR INTO GEAR, TO DRIVE FROM REVERSE, IT LAGS UNTIL IT KICKS IN AND JERKS HARD. WHEN SHIFTING INTO REVERSE WITH THE FOOT FIRMLY ON THE BRAKE, THE VEHICLE BEGINS TO ROLL BACKWARD WITH MY FOOT STILL ON THE BRAKE. WHEN YOU TRY TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO GET CAR TO STOP MOVING, BRAKE PEDAL DOES NOT DEPRESS ALL THE WAY AND DOES NOT STOP THE VEHICLE FROM MOVING. IF YOU ATTEMPT TO PUMP THE BRAKES, THERE IS A HARD STOP THAT PREVENTS THE BRAKE PEDAL FROM GOING ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE VEHICLE IS TO PUT IT BACK INTO PARK.
- 12/28/2020· SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
THE VEHICLE HAS A 'WAKE UP' NOISE UNLIKE ANY OTHER THAT FORD CAN SHOW ME. ONCE YOU OPEN THE DRIVERS DOOR, IT MAKE AN EXTREMELY LOUD METAL GRINDING NOISE UNDER THE HOOD IN THE ABS AREA. AFTER YOU DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND PARK IT, IT DOES IT BY ITSELF 30 MINS LATER THEN AGAIN ONCE YOU OPEN UP THE DOOR AGAIN. ALSO, THE BREAK PEDAL AND BREAKS LOCK IN PLACE AT TIMES WHEN GOING FROM PARK TO DRIVE OR REVERSE. NOT IMMEDIATELY, BUT ONCE YOU START TO MOVE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO VIOLENTLY JERK. THE 'CRASH WARNING' FOR A VEHICLE STOPPING SHORT IN FRONT OF YOU ALSO GOES OFF BY ITSELF WITHOUT ANYTHING AT ALL IN FRONT OF YOU CAUSING THE ALARM TO SOUND AND THE VEHICLE TO BREAK ON ITS ON. THIS HAPPENS A VARIOUS SPEEDS BUT ESPECIALLY ON THE HIGHWAY. ALL OF THESE ISSUES HAVE BEEN HAPPENING SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE BRAND NEW IN MAY OF 2020
- 12/27/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
The Power Liftgate does not open, and it took me 16 minutes to open it. It is a safety issue.
- 12/27/2021· POWER TRAIN
1) Powertrain - 10 speed transmission will not shift properly. When down/up shifting, The transmission slams into gear. It started at 54000 miles. Dealer repair shop stated that there were zero codes and was unable to ascertain the problem. Problem continued and only got worst. On another visit, the mechanic was able to duplicate the sound and still no codes. It was stated that I should return the vehicle on Monday and Ford technical would be contacted. Vehicle was returned on a Monday. i spoke with the Mechanic. he now stated that he could not duplicate the slamming. I recommend he ride with me. We took a four- mile drive. Within 3/4 mile, the slamming was back. The vehicle was kept until Friday of same week. The factory Rep recommended that dealer should reset the computer and drive for 500 miles. The dealer Rep/Dannelle stated Ford should assumed the cost of replacing the transmission and not the dealer under my Extended Warranty. Now the dealer's Repair shop will not return my phone call. 2) I also called in report and request an appointment regarding my electric windows will not go up or down. Zero return call. After driving approximately 300 miles and stopping for fuel, the windows started working again.
- 12/27/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
2020 FORD EXPLORER XLT PURCHASED NEW FROM DEALER 04/2020. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS THE STARTER WOULD NOT ACTIVATE TO START THE CAR. WHEN THE BRAKE IS DEPRESSED THE STARTER BUTTON AND EXTERIOR LIGHTS FLASH. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE FORD DEALER, BUT THE CAR STARTED IMMEDIATELY ACCORDING TO TECHNICIAN. NO ISSUES WERE FOUND. ON THE SECOND OCCASION, THE ISSUE RESOLVED SPONTANEOUSLY AS WELL. SINCE I AM NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM WITH ANY REGULARITY, THERE IS NO SENSE IN TAKING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. IN BOTH INSTANCES THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT WITH THE ENGINE TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 10K ON IT.
- 12/26/2025· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Passenger side Headlight low beam went out. Dealer says it’s $1500 because whole headlight assembly must be replaced instead of a bulb. We live off of social security, so of course we don’t have the money for this. Now we can’t drive at night and we both have medical problems. This is both worrisome and dangerous. After some research, this is a recurring issue, especially for Platinums.
- 12/26/2024· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Low beam headlights have both went out in our second year of ownership. At 1600.00 each and 600.00 labor to replace.
- 12/26/2023· POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle started to shake abnormally. While driving, the vehicle lunged forward without the accelerator pedal being depressed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be rebuilt. The software was reprogrammed and set for the parking brake to remain engaged. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 63,000.
- 12/25/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Transmission oil cooler leaking transmission fluid cooler inlet and outlet leaking.
- 12/23/2024· VISIBILITY/WIPER
Sunroof liner out of line with track, when opening blocks rear visibility including blind spots. Dealer confirmed multiple reports of sunroof issues with no identified fix besides replacing it with an identical mechanism that’s currently failing. Passengers in middle row are completely covered by drooping sunroof and have to lift it out of the way
- 12/23/2020· POWER TRAIN,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TRANSMISSION STARTED VIOLENTLY SHIFTING AND JERKING THE CAR AT CITY AND HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE TRANSMISSION WAS DETERMINED TO BE DAMAGED AND TOOK 2.5 MONTHS TO FIX BECAUSE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. ADDITIONALLY, THE DRIVER'S SEAT MASSAGE FEATURE FAILED, INTERIOR COLUMNS KEPT POPPING OUT, DEFECTIVE PULL DOWN SUN GLASS HOLDER, GAP IN LIFT GATE INTERIOR PLASTIC BOLTED TO IT AND REPLACING OF DAMAGED SEAT CLIPS.
- 12/23/2020· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2020 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IN THE REVERSE POSITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD INDEPENDENTLY STOP ABRUPTLY WITHOUT WARNING. ON ONE OCCASION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS WIFE SUFFERED WHIPLASH WHILE SHE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT'S WIFE HAD RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR INFLAMMATION TO HER NECK AND BACK; SHE HAD ALSO RECEIVED THERAPEUTIC TREATMENT FOR HER INJURY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO FRONTIER FORD(12610 THOMPSON RD, ANACORTES, WA 98221) WHERE IT REMAINED IN THEIR POSSESSION AND HAD YET TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CLAIM WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 6,000.
- 12/23/2020· SEAT BELTS
NO ACCIDENT AT THIS TIME. THIS IS REGARDING THE KNOB SHIFTER AND ITS ABILITY TO AUTOMATICALLY SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO PARK WHEN DISCONNECTING THE SEAT BELT AND OPENING THE DRIVERS DOOR. THE SYSTEM WORKS GREAT UNLESS YOU ARE USING A SEATBELT EXTENDER. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. I DON'T THINK DRIVERS ARE MADE AWARE OF THIS ISSUE. I CERTAINLY WAS NOT.
- 12/22/2025· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
My explorer was very slow/unable to accelerate onto the highway. The next time I started it there was rattling and lots of non engine noises, along with all kinds of warning lights. I took it to the dealership. In his words ‘the turbo grenaded itself into the engine. Quoted me 15k to fix/replace the engine, turbo and half shaft. I still owe 9k on it. Extended warranty that I purchased expired 4,000 miles ago. I have had multiple issues with this vehicle since I purchased it brand new in 2020. I am trading it in tomorrow
- 12/22/2022· SUSPENSION,PARKING BRAKE
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V154000 (Suspension) however, while attempting to leave the dealer after the repair, the vehicle was shifted in drive(D), but the vehicle failed to respond. The contacted stated that the electronic parking brake appeared to be engaged. The contact stated that upon depressing the accelerator pedal persistently, the vehicle responded by surging forward. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop, the vehicle failed to respond upon releasing the brake pedal. The contact stated that she depressed the accelerator pedal several times and the vehicle responded by surging forward. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure occurred as a result of recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V154000 (Suspension). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that she was concerned as the recall repair had generated a potential risk to her safety. The contact stated that the electronic parking brake would engage while the vehicle was at a complete stop. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 28,500.
- 12/21/2024· POWER TRAIN
Received letter for Ford CSP 24N01 which states that the one bolt holding the rear end is at risk of breaking off under load. The letter then says if the bolt is broken or if any noise and/or vibration is present in the rear, to then bring the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer then stated that the bushing the bolt rides in is tearing at the top but the vehicle is not eligible for the CSP. The main issue is they will not quote just replacing the bushing but they are required to update the rear diff cover that accommodates two bolts and bushings (which is the CSP). I’m forced to either pay $1800 for the dealer to address this or just throw the CSP in the glove box and let the stress of the bolt take the abuse of a sloppy bushing and let my wife drive along until her rear end falls out. I would get the bushing replaced but the dealer is not giving that option. The bushing that is in the vehicle is DISCONTINUED due to a design flaw. How is this not a recall for all explorers of these years? Mine was built 02/2020 which is part of the Safety Recall 22S27.
- 12/21/2022· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V255000 (Power Train). The contact stated that after the transmission was shifted into park(P), the parking brake was inadvertently activated. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle performed as intended under the recall repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.
- 12/20/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The panoramic sunroof sunshade assembly on my 2020 Ford Explorer Limited failed when the sunshade suddenly came off the guide track during normal operation. Prior to the failure, the sunshade operated normally with no warning signs, messages, or indicators. Once detached, the sunshade hung down into the rear window area and obstructed rearward visibility while driving, creating a safety hazard during lane changes, merging, and reversing. An authorized Ford dealer inspected the vehicle, confirmed that the sunshade had come off the track, and quoted approximately $1,500 for repair. The component remains installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request.
- 12/20/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
Rear camera does not detect traffic passing or people walking behind the vehicle.Sometimes the screen goes blue. Crash alert goes off any time it wants. Even when parked.
- 12/20/2023· SERVICE BRAKES,LANE DEPARTURE
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the brake warning light was illuminated. The brake pedal was engaged and continued to depress independently. After turning off the vehicle, an abnormal sound was detected. The contact stated that while driving, there was a line on the screen. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was referred to the local dealer. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
- 12/20/2019· POWER TRAIN
VEHICLE DOESN'T MOVE FOR LONG SECONDS WHEN I SWITCH TO REVERSE.
- 12/19/2022· POWER TRAIN
See related previous complaints 11394378 and 11403620. Same issue, transmission began to line with no lights then when driving pressed on the accelerator and there was no forward momentum. Luckily was on a country road that was not busy as I had no power to accelerate if I needed to. Lights came on for transmission AFTER I rolled to a stop and turned the vehicle off then back on. Error says it's an issue with the transmission sensor, power control system, transmission control module errors. As stated before has previous issue where they replaced the transmission valve body around 2300 miles and this is the second transmission put in. Last complaint was in February 2021. Same issue with the power train which this time my family was in the car and I was unable to make an evasive maneuver if I needed to. Transmission issue and still no recall for this danger to others.
- 12/18/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The panoramic sunroof shade broke and hung down obstructing my view out of my rear view mirror. It is dangerous for me to be driving without being able to see behind me when my sunshade or sunroof are open. It is available to inspect. I brought it to a repair shop and they said it is a very common issue with Ford Explorers and an expensive repair. The vehicle wasn’t inspected by the manufacturer or police and there were no warning lamps. Ford is well aware of this issue and needs to fix it
- 12/18/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Panoramic Sunshade Problem (Roll Back Issue)
- 12/18/2025· POWER TRAIN
The car started hard shifting, bucking like an animal in the middle of driving 70 on the highway, hard to control, hard to stay out of traffic, started to smell like fuel was in the cabin, it took all I had to keep it in my lane and get over to safety without killing myself or someone else, took it to the dealership, they could not look at it for two weeks, took it to a different shop, he found that a wire had been cut and some hoses were zip tied to the frame ( previously only work on this car has been at dealership) he then towed it to the dealership at the two week appointment and they say its burning transmission fluid and hard shifting and needs a new transmission. The warranty expired two days before this occurred so not covered, it is a 2020 , should not have to completely replace a transmission only 74,000 miles on it . I had taken it n three times previously for hard shifting but it was an occasionally occurrence, they could never find any codes to explain so did not look further than what the computer said. That day, it did not throw any codes, until the secondary mechanic took the time to look under the hood, find the cut wire and fix that. Then he had 3 pages of codes. Now I not only have to pay the financed amount on this vehicle but I have to pay an additional 10,000 for a car that did not do its high functioning job and report a problem when i was feeling the problem and probably could have been a warranty fix before the warranty expired if the code appeared the first time, telling the computer to tell the technician to fix it.
- 12/18/2024· SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon raising the front passenger's side power window switch, the window rolled up and then rolled back down unintentionally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the power window control module was reset. The contact stated after the dealer had performed a rearview camera recall repair on the vehicle, messages advising that the traction control and the other drive modes were inoperable were displayed. The dealer replaced the throttle body and an unknown part. Additionally, the contact stated after the dealer had lifted the vehicle for servicing, the dealer noticed that the catalytic converter, the mufflers, and the shock absorbers had failed. The dealer informed the contact that the shock absorbers were leaking fluid. The dealer determined that the catalytic converter, the mufflers, and the shock absorbers needed to be replaced. The dealer had ordered the parts. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
- 12/18/2024· SEATS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
There are problems with these items which are covered under a Ford recall. My vehicle is at Liccardi Ford dealer in Watchung NJ and I feel a tremendous resistance from the dealer to repair the recalled ordered repairs.
- 12/18/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,SERVICE BRAKES
DRIVERS SEAT APPEARED TO SHIFT WHEN TURNING. THIS HAS RESULTED IN THE PLASTIC TRIM AT BOTTOM OF SEAT TO BREAK AND COME LOOSE FROM SEAT WHILE MOVING. THIS HAS OCCURED TWICE. ADDITIONALLY WE HAVE RECEIVED ERROR MESSAGES ON THE 4WD WHILE ON AN EXTENDED TRIP. IT DROPPED US OUT OF CRUISE CONTROLLED AN TOLD US TO SERVICE TRANSMISSION. ALSO REVERSE ASSIST WAS INACTIVATED AS WELL AS CRUISE . BACK UP VIEW ON SCREEN TURNED BLUE. BRAKES HAVE ALSO BECOME INACTIVE WHEN STARTING TO BACK UP. (NOVEMBER 15, 2020) THESE PROBLEMS ARE CONTINUING TO OCCUR AND THE DEALER HAS NOT TRIED TO FIX THE ISSUE.
- 12/17/2025· POWER TRAIN
Since I have bought my 2020 Ford Explorer (brand new off the lot) it has had to have the turbo replaced several times now . Currently the turbo is bad again and I’m looking at a $3500 repair for a turbo that was already replaced 2 times since I bought it. I feel there is an issue with this car handling the turbos , I am a single mom of 5 kids and cannot afford to keep replacing turbos every couple years. I now have it sitting in my driveway cause it can’t be driven and still have a $740 momthly payment to pay on it and because I can’t use the car I can’t go to work anymore so I need help with this please
- 12/17/2024· VISIBILITY/WIPER
My back window shattered. It made a horribly loud noise and shattered from one side to the other. There was no visibility out the window. I had just parked my car and was stepping out when it exploded. I can’t imagine the reaction I would have had if I had been driving. There was not any warnings or anything pertaining to the window and my vehicle has not been inspected at this time. I will be taking my vehicle to have the back window replaced, and it could be inspected anytime prior to that.
- 12/17/2024· EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Daytime running light on drivers side not functioning at all.
- 12/17/2022· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When engaging gear into reverse, there’s no image feedback in the information screen. A blue screen is displayed, making it unsafe and dangerous to operate the vehicle. My Explorer is definitely being affected by the recall and yet when checking the VIN number it shows ‘No Recalls’. Please advise and provide confirmation of acknowledgment so I can take it to a Ford dealership for repair. Thank you
- 12/16/2020· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MY 2020 EXPLORER ST IS DISPLAYING 4WD FAULT, DRIVE MODE UNAVAILABLE, SERVICE 4WD. REVERSE BRAKE ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE. THE INFO SCREEN STAY BLACK AND WILL NOT LOAD. THE VEHICLE ALSO DISPLAYS PRE COLLISION FAULT AND BRAKES HARD ON A CLEAR AND OPEN ROAD. VEHICLE BREAKS BY ITSELF WHEN REVERSING. THE VEHICLE IS ALSO DISPLAYING NUMEROUS OTHER FAULTS. VEHICLE WILL START ON IT'S OWN. THE BREAK PETAL GOES TO THE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WILL SOMETIMES BREAK HARD ON IT'S OWN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS.
- 12/16/2020· POWER TRAIN
NO RECALLS OR NOTICES AS OF DECEMBER 4TH. TOOK A ROAD TRIP FOR WIFES BIRTHDAY FROM TEXAS TO OKLAHOMA, CAR HAS LESS THAN 10K MILES ON IT. ON DECEMBER 5TH WHILE DRIVING TO GET BREAKFAST TRANAMITION STARTED TO SLIP ON HILLS AND GEARS STARTED GRINDING. CALLED FORD WHEN I WAS IN AN AREA WITH RECEPTION. FORD WAS NOTIFIED THAT THE TRANAMITION WAS SLIPPING IN AN OUT OF GEAR AND THERE WAS A GRINDING NOISE. WE WERE 300 MILES FROM HOME WITH NO DEALERSHIP OR TOW OPTION AND LIMITED SERVICE. SERVICE ADVISER ASKED IF WE HAD THE RECALL DONE ON THE TRANSMITION AND TOLD HIM WE HAVE RECEIVED NO NOTICE. WE PLAYED A BACK AND FOURTH GAME WERE I TOLD HIM WE GOT NO NOTICE OF THE RECALL AND HE THOUGHT I WAS WRONG. ON DECEMBER 5TH WHEN WE WERE SCHEDULE TO DRIVE BACK, CAR WOULD NOT COME OUT OF PARK, HAD TO RIP APART THE CENTER CONSOLE TO GET TO THE EMERGENCY PARK OVERRIDE. WHILE DRIVING BACK CAR WOULD COMMONLY GO OUT OF GEAR, GRIND AND WHILE AT CONSTANT SPEED FALL OUT OF GEAR. FORD ADVISOR CONFIRMED THERE WAS NO WAY TO ADD OR CHECK TRANSMITION FLUID.ALMOST GOT REAR ENDED ON HIGHWAY, SERVICE ROADS AND ON RAMPS ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS BUT KNEW FORD WOULD NOT PAY FOR TOW. FORD CONFIRMED THAT THE OIL COOLER WAS LEAKING BUT ONLY REPLACED THE COOLER. TRANSMITIONWAS RUNNING LOW ON FLUID THE ENTIRE TIME SO NOW WE HAVE A NEW CAR WITH A DAMAGED TRANSMISSION. FORD ADVISOR CONFIRMED AFTER I SHOWED PROOF THAT RECALL WAS NOT ON FORD PASS APP, NHTSA WEBSITE UNDER VIN. FORD IS HIDING ISSUE TO SAVE MONEY. LONG TIME FORD CUSTOMER IN 30S WITH OVER 5 NEW CARS BUT THIS WILL BE THE LAST FORD. ONLY GOT RECALL NOTICE 5 DAYS AFTER CAR WAS TAKEN TO SHOP. NHTSA STILL DOES NOT HAVE RECALL. "RECALL" NOTICE CITES ITS A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 20B34 BUT THE TRASMITION WILL LATTERLY FAIL DUE TO THIS PART ISSUE CAUSING LONG TERM ISSUES ON RELIABILITY OF A $40K CAR. TRIED TO CALL FOR RECALL HOT LINE AND WAS HUNG UP ON!
- 12/15/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The panoramic sunroof cover is not functioning properly. When it is open, it’s supposed to spool up in the back, but it is not working and the cover just drops back into the backseat, obscuring the view to the rear of the vehicle. It’s a very unsafe situation and upon doing some research, I have found this to be a very common problem with this car. No recall has been issued, but it is very clearly a manufacturers defect.
- 12/15/2023· SEATS
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the rear seat headrests failed to remain in the upright position. The contact stated that while attempting to adjust the headrest, the headrest failed to lock into the selected position. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
- 12/15/2022· ENGINE
Vehicle is pre owned and had been driving fine since I’ve owned it from 8/2021 the vehicle had 9000 miles on it when I purchased it. While driving, the vehicle randomly made some noises from the engine compartment but no warning lights I stopped at a red light and when I took off it started to sound like a screatching from the engine then the low oil pressure light came on I immediately pulled over and shut the vehicle off. The next day I had the vehicle towed to a Ford dealership I got a call from them that there is a lot of metal shavings in the engine oil and filter and that this had been going on for a long time and they aren’t sure when it started. The vehicle currently has 27000 miles on it and has had 3 oil changes while I owned it at both Belle Tire and a Ford dealership. The dealership currently still has my vehicle with no information nor update going on 3 weeks.
- 12/14/2023· POWER TRAIN
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 unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- 12/14/2022· BACK OVER PREVENTION
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while reversing, the back-up camera image turned blue. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V735000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the failure reoccurred a week later. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the back-up camera failed and needed to be replaced; however, the recall repair did not include a back-up camera replacement. The contact stated that the recall remedy failed to repair the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as the VIN was not currently under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
- 12/13/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof fabric is sagging and partially obstructing my view through the rear view mirror