⌘K
Home›Ford›Explorer›2020
Ford · Midsize / large SUV

2020 Ford Explorer

HybridGas
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
6 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-09-11
F
Safety Signal
35 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Recalls7 critical35
Complaintsowner reports to NHTSA1,209
Crash ratingNHTSA overall5★
Fuel economybest combined, EPA28 mpg
20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2020 Ford Explorer is sold in the U.S. as a hybrid and gas midsize or large SUV with 6 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the Explorer HEV RWD, is EPA-rated at 28 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 35 recall campaigns for this model year, 7 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 1209 complaints, most often about the power train. NHTSA crash-tested it at 5 stars overall.

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
Explorer HEV RWDHybridRWD3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion272928$2,250
Explorer HEV AWDHybrid4WD (part-time)3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion232625$2,500
Explorer RWDGasRWD2.3L 4-cyl turbo212824$2,600
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo202723$2,700
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)3.0L 6-cyl turbo182420$3,100
Explorer FFV AWDGas4WD (part-time)3.3L 6-cyl162319$3,300

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 41937, 41939, 41485, 41487, 41511, 41512.

Factory warranty running out?

The 2020 Ford Explorer is in the years where transmission, electronics and drivetrain repairs land on the owner. Compare extended-coverage quotes in about two minutes.

Compare coverage →

Affiliate disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you request a quote or buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing on this page changes because of it.

Recalls (35)

Source: NHTSA recall database
▲high

Seats

26S52
387,911 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.FixDealers 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 1-866-436-7
NHTSA campaign 26V451000reported Jul 14, 2026Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

26S48
741,195 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskPark system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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
NHTSA campaign 26V402000reported Jun 24, 2026Ford Motor Company
▲high

Seat Belts

26C18
561 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 26V159000reported Mar 17, 2026Ford Motor Company
▲high

Visibility

26S14
604,533 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskWindshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 26V117000reported Mar 3, 2026Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

26C11
889,950 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskAn incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 26V123000reported Mar 3, 2026Ford Motor Company
!critical

Equipment

25SA4
59,006 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.FixOwners 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
NHTSA campaign 25V685000reported Oct 10, 2025Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

25S72
200,237 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA 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.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 25V442000reported Jun 27, 2025Ford Motor Company
▲high

Seats

25S67
304,662 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 25V393000reported Jun 13, 2025Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

25S27
49,399 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskLoss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 25V159000reported Mar 14, 2025Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

25S22
4,247 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA 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.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 25V166000reported Mar 14, 2025Ford Motor Company
▲high

Seat Belts

25S09
240,510 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.FixDealers 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
NHTSA campaign 25V093000reported Feb 14, 2025Ford Motor Company
○minor

Equipment

24C39
27,678 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskWithout a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 24V852000reported Nov 8, 2024Ford Motor Company
!critical

Engine

24S52
85,238 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskAn engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.FixOwners 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
NHTSA campaign 24V598000reported Aug 9, 2024Ford Motor Company
▲high

Back Over Prevention

20C19
1,988 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskA 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.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 24V188000reported Mar 8, 2024Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

23S55
238,364 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.RiskA 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.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V675000reported Oct 6, 2023Ford Motor Company
!critical

Electrical System

23S53
2,954 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskBattery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V626000reported Sep 8, 2023Ford Motor Company
▲high

Back Over Prevention

23S23
442,973 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskLoss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V342000reported May 12, 2023Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

23C14
523 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskA rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V305000reported Apr 28, 2023Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

23S16
674 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskWithout 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.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V199000reported Mar 24, 2023Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

23S05
3,674 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V069000reported Feb 10, 2023Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

23S02
382,759 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskLoss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 23V022000reported Jan 23, 2023Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

22S27
252,936 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, Explorer Police 3.3L, and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, and 3.0L ST GAS vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.RiskA disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in 'Park' without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDepending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the bushing and axle cover, or update the electronic parking brake software. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022, and March 10, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S27.
NHTSA campaign 22V255000reported Apr 14, 2022Ford Motor Company
○minor

Back Over Prevention

21S44
228,297 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers 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.
NHTSA campaign 21V735000reported Sep 22, 2021Ford Motor Company
▲high

Suspension

21S11
49 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskBroken RLCA bolts can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 21V154000reported Mar 10, 2021Ford Motor Company
▲high

Visibility

21C01
283 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The affected vehicles contain windshield washer fluid that was contaminated with brake fluid. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 104, "Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems."RiskA washer system contaminated with brake fluid can reduce the driver's ability to clear windshield, increasing the risk of a crash.FixFord will notify owners, and dealers will flush out the washer system, replacing the washer bottle neck, washer pump assembly, fluid level sensor and the front and rear wiper blades. Dealers will also inspect and repair the vehicle's paint and exterior components if affected, free of charge. The recall began March 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C01.
NHTSA campaign 21V014000reported Jan 15, 2021Ford Motor Company
▲high

Engine

20S72
1,405 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskWith 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V788000reported Dec 17, 2020Ford Motor Company
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

20S68
17 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskAn 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V730000reported Nov 24, 2020Ford Motor Company
!critical

Power Train

20S65
10,905 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskDefective 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V693000reported Nov 10, 2020Ford Motor Company
▲high

Back Over Prevention

20C19
620,246 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskReduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V575000reported Sep 23, 2020Ford Motor Company
▲high

Seat Belts

20S50
29 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskVehicles with seat belt buckles that are not properly secured may fail to restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V549000reported Sep 10, 2020Ford Motor Company
▲high

Air Bags

20S48
488 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskIf 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 20V497000reported Aug 21, 2020Ford Motor Company
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

19S49
3,857 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 19V859000reported Dec 4, 2019Ford Motor Company
!critical

Electrical System

19S32
10,655 vehicles
ProblemFord 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.RiskThe 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 19V687000reported Sep 30, 2019Ford Motor Company
▲high

Seats

19C07
639,137 vehicles
ProblemFord 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 RestrRiskA 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 19V633000reported Aug 28, 2019Ford Motor Company
▲high

Power Train

19C06
13,896 vehicles
ProblemFord 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."RiskWithout 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.FixFord 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.
NHTSA campaign 19V575000reported Aug 5, 2019Ford Motor Company

NHTSA defect investigations

Structure:Frame And Members:Underbody Shields — Underbody shields detachment closed

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition on August 22, 2025, requesting a defect investigation into an alleged defect of the “underbody shields� on model year (MY) 2020 Ford Explorer vehicles. The petition alleges premature degradation and detachment of the plastic underbody shields, potentially leading to road debris. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11682326. A search of the subject vehicle population was undertaken using complaints submitted to ODI. No related complaints were found in NHTSA’s database for the subject vehicle population. Subsequently, ODI conducted a broader search for related complaints and field reports involvin

Opened Sep 5, 2025 · closed Apr 9, 2026 · action DP25001

Power Train:Driveline:Differential Unit — Rear Axle Bolt Failure closed

On July 17, 2023, the Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) opened this Recall Query (RQ) after receiving 2 consumer complaints alleging loss of vehicle forward power and/or loss of transmission torque of the rear wheels in model year (MY) 2020-2022 Ford Explorer vehicles (subject vehicles). The RQ was opened to focus on the effectiveness of the remedies of Recalls 22V-255 and 23V-199 related to the alleged problem. Recall 22V-255 involved replacing the bushing and axle cover in the following subject vehicles: 3.3L FHEV Police built before October 14, 2020, and 3.3L Gas Police vehicle built before January 31, 2021. For 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3LFHEV, and 3.0LST retail (non-police) vehicles, th

Opened Jun 20, 2023 · closed Feb 15, 2024 · action RQ23002

Electrical System:Propulsion System — Pedestrian alert sounds closed

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matt

Opened Jan 27, 2023 · closed Aug 7, 2023 · action DP22005

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera — Rearview Camera FMVSS 111 Noncompliance open

On September 23, 2020, Ford Motor Company (Ford) filed a noncompliance recall report under 49 CFR Part 573 (NHTSA Recall No. 20V-575), recalling 620,246 Model Year (MY) 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 for a noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111, Rear Visibility. Ford's recall described the noncompliance as insufficient electrical conductivity within the printed circuit board (PCB) internal to the camera leading to intermittent rearview camera operation. The supplier of the cameras was Magna Electronics.According to Ford's chronology in the Par

Opened Aug 3, 2021 · action RQ21002

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
1209complaints filed

35 involved a crash · 11 a fire · 38 injuries · 0 deaths reported

Filed per year: 2019: 7 · 2020: 111 · 2021: 136 · 2022: 85 · 2023: 186 · 2024: 202 · 2025: 318 · 2026: 164

Most-cited components

Power Train485
Unspecified204
Electrical System185
Engine113
Back Over Prevention112
Forward Collision Avoidance85

What owners describe

“On my 2020 police interceptor through a no issue for the transmission, failing at early mileage, jerking in a drive and slamming gears when shifting and low gears, I believe the component is the CDF drum in the transmission, which is thousands of dollars to fix Ford offered to replace it under warranty, but the issue t…”Aug 18, 2026 · Power Train · NHTSA owner report
“When the vehicle was started this morning, it sounded like it was chugging and did not wasn’t to stay on. Then when the driver went to drive, he got the notification on my dash to stop safely and the engine was disabled. The check engine light was on, as well as the battery light was on, and the warning light was on.…”Apr 30, 2026 · Power Train · NHTSA owner report
“Driver was responding to a priority call with lights and siren going when the engine RPM's raced to approx 8,000 RPM's, engine lost forward movement and red triangle and stop safely now message turned on. Vehicle was moved to the side of the road and was disabled requiring a tow to Fleet. PCM codes P2884 and P2885 for …”Apr 30, 2026 · Power Train · NHTSA owner report

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP
ConfigurationOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
SUV 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆15%

NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. Standard driver-assist: forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking.

Other Explorer model years

F

2026 Ford Explorer

14 recalls · 33 complaints

F

2025 Ford Explorer

22 recalls · 97 complaints

F

2024 Ford Explorer

10 recalls · 19 complaints

F

2023 Ford Explorer

15 recalls · 108 complaints

F

2022 Ford Explorer

25 recalls · 263 complaints

F

2021 Ford Explorer

27 recalls · 421 complaints

F

2019 Ford Explorer

6 recalls · 293 complaints

F

2018 Ford Explorer

7 recalls · 731 complaints

F

2017 Ford Explorer

14 recalls · 1,693 complaints

F

2016 Ford Explorer

14 recalls · 2,468 complaints

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). Floor 35. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Complaint counts and NHTSA crash ratings are shown separately and are not blended into the grade.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed weekly.

JSON for this page · API