2019 Ford Explorer

299 federal complaints (349 component records) · 6 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 130 service bulletins · 6 Canadian recalls
See all 43 model years of the Ford Explorer →
Engine
2.3L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
AWD
EPA economy
18 city / 25 hwy
Federal complaints
299
Recall campaigns
6
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
151
Other
47
Power train
36
Engine & cooling
25
Electrical system
22
Fuel system
17
Suspension
11
Steering
9
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: 19 complaints01 years old: 15 complaints2 years old: 19 complaints3 years old: 25 complaints4 years old: 39 complaints5 years old: 93 complaints56 years old: 53 complaints7 years old: 35 complaints8 years old: 0 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 0 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 298 of 299 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 22 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 14 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 26 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 23 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 18 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 4 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 3 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 3 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 0 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 1 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 114 of 299 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.

Body & structure

151 complaint records
"The A pillars are coming off. Other years make and model were recalled . The A pillars on the sides should be recalled just as the front b pillars...."- 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 →

Power train

36 complaint records
"VEHICLE SHIFTS ROUGH. I WAS TOLD BY FORD THAT I NEED TO REPLACE MY BATTERY EXCEPT I DO NOT HAVE ANY BATTERY ISSUES AT ALL. ALSO WHEN I PUT MY VEHICLE IN PARK IT ROLLS FORWARD A LITTLE...."- 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 power train parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

25 complaint records
"Blown engine due to ecoboost fuel issues. Vehicle quit and shut off on highway. Multiple issues with 2019 ford explorer that does not get resolved...."- 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 engine & cooling parts in the directory →

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.

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
26V101000SuspensionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture.Normally free
26V012000EquipmentFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles.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
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
19V633000SeatsFord 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...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.
2026080
2026-02-20
Suspension20,416Issue: On certain vehicles, the outer ball joint for the rear suspension toe link(s) may seize. If this happens, the toe link(s) could break while driving. This could cause a sudden loss of vehicle stability.
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.
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.
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.
Show 1 more Canadian recalls
RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2019437
2019-08-29
Seats And Restraints70,741Issue: On certain vehicles, seats with a manual recliner may not meet the strength requirements of Canadian regulations. A seatback with reduced strength may not properly restrain an occupant in a crash.

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
TSB 25-2570
Nov 2025
Electrical SystemThis article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation concerns  Navigation inoperative  Voice...
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.
TSB 24-2165
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis article supersedes TSB 21-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019...
SSM 52483
Apr 2024
Unknown Or OtherSome 2018-2019 Explorer and 2018-2024 Transit/F-150/Expedition/Navigator vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
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.
SSM 51838
Aug 2023
Electrical SystemIn various 2017-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the (SYNC Connect) FordPass or LincolnWay app through the TCU Embedded Modem.
SAN-Vol1 I1
Jun 2023
EquipmentThe Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and other service information.
SSM 51536
Apr 2023
StructureFor 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle.
SSM 51306
Jan 2023
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2023 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
20B27 S1
Sep 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingCertain 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
SSM 50975
Jul 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode.
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 50873
Jun 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2022 Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners may experience a condition of missing authorization, command and control, battery charging details or phone-as-a-key setup buttons/selections in their FordPass or LincolnWay App.
SSM 50841
Jun 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2022 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
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,...
SSM 50726
Apr 2022
CommunicationSome 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed.
SSM 50661
Apr 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2022 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
SSM 50651
Apr 2022
CommunicationIn various 2017-2022 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating "Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the (SYNC Connect) FordPass or LincolnWay app through the TCU Embedded Modem.
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...
SSM 50502
Feb 2022
SeatsSome 2017-2018 Focus/MKX/C-MAX, 2017-2019 MKC/Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2017-2020 Fusion/MKZ/Continental, 2017-2022 Mustang/Edge/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility/Escape/F-150/F-Super Duty, 2018-2022 Expedition/Navigator, 2019-2022 Ranger/Nautilus, 2020-2022 Corsair/Aviator, and...
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.
SSM 50375
Dec 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2016-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a condition where the navigation voice prompts are inoperative after a SYNC map update. This may be due to an incomplete installation of the SYNC map software.
SSM 50346
Dec 2021
EquipmentSome 2018-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control unit (TCU).
SSM 50251
Nov 2021
CommunicationSome 2017-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed.
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 50049
Aug 2021
Power TrainSome 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicle customers may receive a message in their FordPass or Lincoln Way App stating Feature Unavailable.
SSM 50039
Aug 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2016-2021 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode.
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 49924
Jul 2021
Fuel SystemSome 2019 MKC, 2019-2021 Edge/Nautilus/Escape/Ranger/Explorer, 2020-2021 Corsair, and 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.3L EcoBoost engines may exhibit a light to moderate ticking type noise at idle (600-700 RPM).
TSB 21-2175
Jun 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC...
SSM 49820
May 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners may experience a condition of missing Authorization, Command and Control, Battery Charging Details or Phone-as-a-Key setup buttons/selections in their FordPass or LincolnWay App.
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.
SSM 49803
May 2021
Equipment Adaptive/MobilitySome 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control unit (TCU).
SSM 49795
May 2021
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may not be able to perform remote commands via the FordPass/LincolnWay App due to an erroneous deep sleep message.
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...
21B13
Mar 2021
Power TrainCertain 2017-2019 Model Year Explorer Vehicles Rear Wheel Knuckle and Toe Link Replacement This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field parts for testing.
SSM 49618
Feb 2021
Power TrainSome 2018-2021 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P025A And/Or DTC U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM).
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.
SSM 49541
Feb 2021
EquipmentSome 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with TCU and WiFi Hotspot, May display Vehicle Hotspot feature not enabled on this vehicle when attempting to enter the Hotspot menu.
20N11-S1
Feb 2021
EquipmentA 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
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
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.
SSM 49328
Nov 2020
Fuel SystemSome 2019 MKC, 2019-2020 Edge/Nautilus/Escape/Ranger, 2020 Corsair, 2019-2021 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.3L EcoBoost engines may exhibit a light to moderate ticking type noise at idle (600-700 RPM).
SSM 49292
Oct 2020
Power TrainSome 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control unit (TCU).
SSM 49284
Oct 2020
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with TCU and WiFi Hotspot, May display Vehicle Hotspot feature not enabled on this vehicle when attempting to enter the Hotspot menu.
20B27
Oct 2020
Electrical SystemIn 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.

Showing 60 of 130 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 it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  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 6 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 →