2016 Ford Explorer

2,461 federal complaints (3,049 component records) · 14 recall campaigns on file · 2 federal investigations · 187 service bulletins · 16 Canadian recalls
See all 43 model years of the Ford Explorer →
Engine
3.5L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
AWD
EPA economy
16 city / 23 hwy
Federal complaints
2,461
Recall campaigns
14
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Body & structure
596
Steering
538
Engine & cooling
497
Other
430
Power train
217
Electrical system
130
Fuel system
112
Air bags
99
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 308 complaints01 years old: 215 complaints2 years old: 167 complaints3 years old: 233 complaints4 years old: 184 complaints5 years old: 159 complaints56 years old: 243 complaints7 years old: 301 complaints8 years old: 347 complaints9 years old: 232 complaints10 years old: 69 complaints1011 years old: 0 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 2,458 of 2,461 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 346 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 223 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 288 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 182 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 157 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 122 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 68 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 37 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 14 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 10 complaints200,000+ miles: 8 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 1,455 of 2,461 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

A model year at the heart of a long-running complaint pattern about what owners were breathing inside the cabin, plus a rear-suspension fault that drew a recall.

Body & structure

596 complaint records1 fire report4 crash reports
"PAINT BUBBLING AND PEELING AROUND FRONT EDGE OF HOOD SHOWING RUST UNDERNEATH. VEHICLE IS GARAGE KEPT AND CLEANED REGULARLY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse body & structure parts in the directory →

Steering

538 complaint records10 crash reports
"My wife was driving to work and the steering wheel just locked up on her and almost caused a serious accident out of nowhere..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse steering parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

497 complaint records3 fire reports3 crash reports
One frequently described issue: Exhaust fumes in the cabin

Owners of this generation reported exhaust odor and, in many filings, symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure inside the vehicle, most often under hard acceleration with the climate system recirculating. The pattern drew a federal investigation and manufacturer service campaigns. Any used example should be checked for the sealing and exhaust repairs those campaigns specified.

"UNDER ACCELERATION, THERE IS AN EXHAUST SMALL INSIDE THE VEHICLE, AND I'VE MEASURED CARBON MONOXIDE LEVELS UP TO 19 PPM...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts named in the editorial file
Exhaust Manifold
Buy it now on eBay
Named by the editorial note above, not by the federal record. Opens a live eBay search for this vehicle; confirm fitment.

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
PE23001
opened Jan 2023
closed Feb 2024StructureWindshield trim molding Item detachment - led to recall 24V031
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.
EA17002
opened Jul 2017
closed Jan 2023StructureExhaust 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.

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
26V448000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.Normally free
25V685000EquipmentFord 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...Normally free
25V347000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.Normally free
24V031000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.Normally free
21V537000SuspensionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan,...Normally free
21V316000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.Normally free
20V675000SuspensionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland,...Normally free
20V692000Power TrainFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive.Normally free
Show 6 more recall campaigns
CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
19V435000SuspensionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.Normally free
17V767000SeatsFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event...Normally free
16V475000SeatsFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat.Normally free
16V183000Engine And Engine CoolingFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28,...Normally free
15V605000Fuel System, GasolineFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015.Normally free
15V464000Parking BrakeFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015,...Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2026341
2026-07-14
Structure14,442Issue: On certain vehicles, the repairs completed by a Ford dealer during customer satisfaction program 20N11 may not be effective. As a result, a second repair is required.
2026005
2026-01-09
Electrical138,783Issue: On certain vehicles, the engine block heater could leak coolant. If this happens, the block heater could short circuit when it's plugged in. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall no. 2025-554.
2025554
2025-10-10
Electrical128,886This recall was replaced by Transport Canada recall no. 2026-005. Issue: On certain vehicles, the engine block heater could leak coolant. If this happens, the block heater could short circuit when it's plugged in.
2025282
2025-05-23
Structure23,060Issue: On certain vehicles, the exterior B-pillar trims on the driver and front passenger doors may not be properly attached. As a result, the trim(s) could loosen and separate from the vehicle.
2024026
2024-01-22
Structure93,349Issue: On certain vehicles, the exterior A-pillar trim on either side of the windshield may not be properly attached. As a result, the trim(s) could loosen and separate from the vehicle.
Show 11 more Canadian recalls
RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2021438
2021-07-16
Suspension56,917Issue: On certain vehicles, the outer ball joint for the rear suspension toe link may seize. If this happens, the toe link could break while driving. This could cause a sudden loss of vehicle stability.
2021267
2021-05-06
Structure36,419Issue: On certain vehicles, the roof rail covers could detach. If this happens while driving, the roof rail cover could separate from the vehicle. Note: This recall only affects vehicles with painted roof rail covers.
2020536
2020-11-11
Powertrain367Issue: On certain vehicles, the front link shaft (intermediate shaft) bracket can break. If this happens, there could be a loss of power to the wheels.
2020524
2020-11-03
Suspension32,095Issue: On certain vehicles, the outer ball joint for the rear suspension toe link may seize. If this happens, the toe link could break while driving. This could cause a sudden loss of vehicle stability.
2019280
2019-06-11
Suspension28,019Issue: On certain vehicles, the rear suspension toe link(s) could break. This could cause a sudden loss of vehicle stability. Note: This problem is more likely to occur on vehicles that are driven on rough roads.
2017593
2017-11-30
Seats And Restraints22,620On certain vehicles, the front power seat adjuster assembly joint may become loose over time. A loose seat adjuster assembly may increase seat cushion deflection and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash, which...
2017224
2017-04-25
Suspension21,577On certain vehicles operated in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, soil properties unique to these areas could cause an accumulation of soil to occur at the attachment point of the rear suspension toe link.
2016329
2016-06-28
Seats And Restraints1,198Certain vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat recliner may fail to conform to Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS) 202 - Head Restraints and CMVSS 207 - Anchorage of Seats.
2016138
2016-03-31
Engine3,993On certain vehicles equipped with a 2.3 litre GTDI engine and an engine block heater, due to the engine’s orientation, the block heater could be susceptible to overheating.
2015436
2015-09-29
Fuel System39On certain vehicles, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been tightened adequately at time of assembly. This could result in insufficient clamp load that could lead to fatigue and fracture of the fuel tank straps.
2015321
2015-07-21
Brakes799Certain vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 135 - Brake Systems. During the manufacturing process, the parking brake controller assembly bracket may have been improperly formed.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
25E10-S1
Sep 2026
Unknown Or Other25E10-S1 Owner letter
25E10-S1
Jul 2026
Electrical SystemNEW VEHICLE DELIVERY HOLD - Emissions Recall 25E10 - Supplement #1 Certain 2018-2020 Model Year F-150 Vehicles With 3.3L Engines and 2016-2019 Model Year Explorer, Taurus, and Flex Vehicles With 3.5L Engines Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reprogramming
25B51
May 2026
EngineCertain 2021-2024 Model Year Bronco, 2021-2024 Model Year Bronco Sport, 2020-2022 Model Year Corsair and Escape, 2016-2024 Model Year Explorer, 2019-2020 Model Year Fusion, 2016-2018 Model Year Focus RS, 2022-2024 Model Year Maverick, 2016-2019 Model Year MKC and 2019-2024 Model...
25N17
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherAdvance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation
SSM 54601
Feb 2026
Electrical SystemFord and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SSM 54366
Nov 2025
Power TrainSome 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025.
TSB 25-2005
Jan 2025
Unknown Or Other"Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: • Customer concern of a vibration or rough idle in D or R • Shudder while driving • Lack of engine RPM • Low performance, lack of acceleration on take off"
SSM 53040
Oct 2024
Unknown Or OtherWhile performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.
SSM 52476
Apr 2024
EquipmentAll accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery.
SSM 52335
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingFor 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods.
SSM 52314
Mar 2024
Power TrainDuring service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage.
22N01 S1
Feb 2023
SuspensionCertain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles Rear Wheel Knuckle Replacement REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Program Terms: added 21R01 and 21R02 REASON FOR PROVIDING A NO-COST, ONE-TIME REPAIR: added 21R01 and 21R02 OWNER NOTIFICATION MAILING SCHEDULE: added mailing schedule for...
21R01
Nov 2022
SuspensionCertain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles Rear Toe Link Replacement Under Safety Recall 21S32, some of the affected vehicles exposed to a highly corrosive environment where road salt is used extensively during winter months, have experienced a seized toe link ball joint...
20B27 S1
Sep 2022
Power TrainCertain 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer Vehicles Equipped With the 2.3L Engine and 6F35 Transmission Powertrain Control Module Reprogram Submitting Owner Letters
20N07 S2
Sep 2022
Power TrainCertain 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer Vehicles Equipped With the 2.3L Engine and 6F35 Transmission - Transmission Extended Warranty Coverage Updated Owner Letters: 20N07/20B27 S1
20B27 S1
Aug 2022
Power TrainCertain 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with the 2.3L engine and 6F35 transmission; Powertrain Control Module reprogram. Supplement: Program terms will be in effect through August 31, 2023 This program is now eligible for mobile repairs
21N01 S2
Aug 2022
Electrical SystemCertain 2016-2018 Model Year Explorer Vehicles High-Speed Cooling Fan Motor Relay; Reason for supplement: Vehicles Covered by this Program: all open / unrepaired vehicles from 21B05 (Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles) have been added to 21N01 as 21B05 expires August 31, 2022.
TSB 22-2287
Jul 2022
Power TrainSome 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit a vibration/rough idle when the vehicle is in drive (D) or reverse (R).
SSM 50861
Jun 2022
Power TrainSome 2015-2016 vehicles equipped with 6F50/6F55 transmission and built on 2-Nov-2015 and through 1-Feb-2016 may exhibit no reverse, 3rd and 5th gear with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0715,P0717,P0756 and/or P2701.
21B11-S2
Jun 2022
Seat BeltsCertain 2014-2016 Model Year Explorer Vehicles 2nd Row Inflatable Seat Belt - In all of the affected vehicles, the air bag light may illuminate as a result of a worn or damaged connection to the rear inflatable seat belt connector.
TSB-17-0044
May 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingEXHAUST ODOR IN VEHICLE
SSM 50804
May 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2013-2023 Ford or Lincoln vehicles with modems activated through FordPass or LincolnWay may experience 12 volt battery drain symptoms when the customer uses non-Ford/Lincoln phone applications as an alternate channel to access vehicle commands such as door lock/unlock,...
22N01
Mar 2022
WheelsCertain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles Rear Wheel Knuckle Replacement Ref 21S32 Submitting Owner Letter
TSB 22-2104
Mar 2022
EquipmentThis article supersedes TSB 21-2236 to update the models and year affected. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2022 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2022 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2022 F-Super Duty, 2018-2022...
22N01
Feb 2022
SuspensionThis program provides a no-cost, one-time repair (if needed) to the rear wheel knuckles for six (6) months from the Repair Order (RO) opening date for field service actions 21S32 or 21S43 provided that the RO opening date occurs on or before July 31, 2023.
21B11-S1
Feb 2022
Seat BeltsCustomer Satisfaction Program 21B11 - Supplement #1 - Certain 2014 - 2016 Model Year Explorer Vehicles 2nd Row Inflatable Seat Belt
21B11
Jan 2022
Air BagsCustomer Satisfaction Program 21B11 Certain 2014-2016 Model Year Explorer Vehicles 2nd Row Inflatable Seat Belt: In all of the affected vehicles, the air bag light may illuminate as a result of a worn or damaged connection to the rear inflatable seat belt connector.
SSM 50395
Jan 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2016 Explorer vehicles equipped with factory remote start (on the key fob) may exhibit erratic operation of the climate control seats and/or heated steering wheel during a remote start event.
SSM 50379
Jan 2022
VisibilitySome 2011-2022 Explorer and 2020-2022 Aviator vehicles may experience an inoperative roof opening panel motor. If diagnostics lead to a motor replacement, visually inspect the original motor for signs of water intrusion.
21N01-S1
Dec 2021
Electrical SystemCertain 2016-2018 Model Year Explorer Vehicles High-Speed Cooling Fan Motor Relay ; Reason for supplement: Vehicle Build Date: Ending build date for Chicago Assembly built vehicles has been updated
SSM 50097
Sep 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with a new body control module (BCM) installed may exhibit a programming error when using IDS versions 122.03 through 123.01 stating 'Data Corrupt' or 'Configuration Failed, would you like to retry?'.
SSM 50067
Aug 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick.
SSM 50059
Aug 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with a new Body Control Module (BCM) installed may exhibit a programming error using IDS v122.03 and newer stating "Data Corrupt" or Configuration Failed, would you like to retry?.
21N01
Aug 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingThis program provides a no-cost, one-time repair (if needed) to the high-speed cooling fan relay and respective electrical terminals, if affected, to ten (10) years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first.
TSB 21-2236
Jul 2021
SeatsSome 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2021 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2021 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2021 F-Super Duty, 2018-2021 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2021 Ranger/Nautilus, 2021 Bronco Sport/Mustang Mach-E...
20N11-S3
Jul 2021
EquipmentOn some of the affected vehicles, the roof rack covers may become detached from the vehicle.
SSM 49821
May 2021
Power TrainSome 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick.
20N11-S2
Mar 2021
EquipmentCertain 2016 - 2019 Model Year Explorer Vehicles equipped with a Roof Rail Roof Rail Cover Detachment On some of the affected vehicles, the roof rail covers can become loose, which can lead to a visible gap between the cover and roof rail base assembly, rattling, and potential...
21B14-S1
Mar 2021
SuspensionCertain 2013 through 2017 Model Year Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles that are Registered or Sold in Certain States/Provinces; Rear Toe Link Ball Joint Inspection This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field data and parts for...
21B14
Mar 2021
SuspensionCertain 2013 through 2017 Model Year Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles that are Registered or Sold in Certain States/Provinces Rear Toe Link Ball Joint Inspection This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field data and parts for...
20N07-S2
Feb 2021
Power TrainThis program extends the warranty coverage of the automatic transmission torque converter for twelve (12) months from the RO date of Powertrain Control Module reflash under Customer Satisfaction Program 20B27.
20N11-S1
Feb 2021
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityA new 3M adhesive is now available, allowing a longer working time, along with mixing nozzles and applicator. 3M Universal Adhesive Black Part Number 08223, 3M Static Mixing Nozzles Part Number 08193 This program provides a one-time repair for the roof rail covers and retaining...
TSB 20-2271
Dec 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit a vibration/rough idle when the vehicle is in DRIVE or REVERSE.
20N07-S1
Dec 2020
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityIn some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience adverse NVH, vibration and/or rough idle in Drive or Reverse, low performance/lack of acceleration during launch, sluggish vehicle operation and shudder while driving
20N11
Dec 2020
StructureOn some of the affected vehicles, the roof rail covers can become loose, which can lead to a visible gap between the cover and roof rail base assembly, rattling, and potential detachment.
20B27
Oct 2020
Power TrainIn affected vehicles, the transmission torque converter may overheat in certain driving conditions. If the torque converter overheats it can lead to adverse NVH, rough idle, and low performance concerns.
20N07
Oct 2020
Power TrainIn some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience adverse NVH, vibration and/or rough idle in Drive or Reverse, low performance / lack of acceleration during launch, sluggish vehicle operation and shudder while driving.
SSM 49210
Sep 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil.
TSB 20-2233
Jul 2020
StructureThis article supersedes TSB 19-2026 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2000 and newer Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust.
SSM 48908
Jun 2020
EquipmentSome 2016-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a SYNC 3 Touchscreen may experience the volume control unresponsive from the Front Control Interface Module (FCIM) and steering volume controls when using Apple Car Play.
SSM 48876
Jun 2020
EquipmentFor 2013-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles that require rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly repairs, dealers are advised to follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Procedures and use service parts recommended by Ford only.
TSB 20-2171
May 2020
StructureSome 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus,2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2020 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2020 F-Super Duty, 2018-2020 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2020 Ranger/Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral...
SSM 48821
May 2020
WheelsFor 2013-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles that require rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly repairs, dealers are advised to follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Procedures and use service parts recommended by Ford only.
TSB 20-2154
May 2020
StructureSome 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit roof rail covers that become loose or partially detached. This may be caused by a lack of retention of the clips securing the roof rail covers.
TSB-20-2072
Mar 2020
EquipmentSome 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles may exhibit front window glass that jumps/chatters during up/down movement. This may be due to various conditions in the window motor including excessive drive gear backlash, bushing wear, and/or excessive endplay.
SSM 48619
Mar 2020
Electrical SystemSSM 48619 - Various Vehicles - Perimeter Alarm Armed And Original Vehicle Keys Cannot Be Accessed to Enter Vehicle - CAN Protection Strategy Some 2013-2016 Model Year Vehicles may exhibit a concern in which the Perimeter Alarm is active and the original keys cannot be accessed...
SSM 48431
Jan 2020
SeatsSome 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit a heated front seat that does not operate properly after turning the ignition on after a remote start event. The seat back heats properly while the lower seat cushion does not.
TSB 19-2389
Dec 2019
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2013-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.5L twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P013A and/or P013C stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
TSB 19-2390
Dec 2019
Electrical SystemSome 2015-2019 F-150, 2015-2020 Explorer, 2017-2019 F-Super Duty, 2017-2020 Continental, 2018-2020 Expedition/Navigator, 2016-2018 MKX, 2019-2020 Nautilus, 2020 Aviator/Corsair and 2013-2020 MKZ vehicles equipped with multi-contour seats may exhibit intermittent multi-contour...
SSM 48423
Dec 2019
Power TrainSome 2015-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick.

Showing 60 of 187 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Walk the body slowly in daylight.Panel gaps, rust at the rockers and wheel arches, and cracked trim are this vehicle's structure complaints. Open and close the liftgate or trunk and look at the latch area.
  2. Drive one straight highway stretch and one slow parking lot.Wander or a shimmy over bumps at speed, and heavy or dropped assist at low speed, are the two faces of this vehicle's steering cluster. A clunk on turn-in points at the linkage.
  3. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 14 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Ford Explorer →