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2022 Ford Explorer

HybridGas
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
15 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-09-11
F
Safety Signal
35 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
Recalls5 critical25
Complaintsowner reports to NHTSA263
Crash ratingNHTSA overall—
Fuel economybest combined, EPA27 mpg
20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2022 Ford Explorer is sold in the U.S. as a hybrid and gas midsize or large SUV with 15 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the Explorer HEV RWD, is EPA-rated at 27 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 25 recall campaigns for this model year, 5 rated critical, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 263 complaints, most often about the power train.

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
Explorer HEV RWDHybridRWD3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion272827$2,300
Explorer Platinum HEV RWDHybridRWD3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion252626$2,400
Explorer HEV AWDHybrid4WD (part-time)3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion232625$2,500
Explorer Platinum HEV AWDHybrid4WD (part-time)3.3L 6-cyl + 280V Li-Ion232423$2,700
Explorer RWDGasRWD2.3L 4-cyl turbo212824$2,600
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo202723$2,700
Explorer RWDGasRWD2.3L 4-cyl turbo202823$2,700
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo202622$2,850
Explorer RWDGasRWD3.0L 6-cyl turbo182621$2,950
Explorer Timberline AWDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo192221$2,950
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)3.0L 6-cyl turbo182420$3,100
Explorer AWDGas4WD (part-time)3.0L 6-cyl turbo182420$3,100
Explorer RWDGasRWD3.0L 6-cyl turbo182520$3,100
Explorer Timberline AWDGas4WD (part-time)2.3L 4-cyl turbo192120$3,100
Explorer FFV AWDGas4WD (part-time)3.3L 6-cyl162419$3,300

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 44833, 44832, 44824, 44976, 44963, 44974, 44964, 44977, 44821, 44975.

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Recalls (25)

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

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
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

25S75
850,318 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.RiskAn engine stall increases the risk of a crash.FixDealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
NHTSA campaign 25V455000reported Jul 7, 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
○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
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

24S55
90,736 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.RiskA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.FixDealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
NHTSA campaign 24V635000reported Aug 23, 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

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

23S06
1,138 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The transmission may contain a loose bolt which could prevent the transmission from engaging the park gear, although the gear shifter position may indicate that the vehicle has been shifted to "PARK."RiskThe inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.FixDealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S06.
NHTSA campaign 23V070000reported Feb 10, 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
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

22S60
69 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Ranger vehicles equipped with 2.3L engines. The fuel line may be loose due to improper tightening of the fuel line connection.RiskAn improperly tightened fuel line connection may result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of fire.FixFord will inspect and replace the fuel line assembly, if needed, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 29, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S60.
NHTSA campaign 22V685000reported Sep 14, 2022Ford Motor Company
▲high

Structure

22C13
776 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles. The engine rails may have been improperly heat-treated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 301, "Fuel System Integrity."RiskImproperly heat-treated engine rails may reduce the vehicle's structural protection in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. In addition, an engine rail may detach and contact the road while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.FixDealers will perform an engine rail strength test and replace the rails as necessary, free of charge. If the engine rails require replacement, owners will have the option for a vehicle replacement or buyback. Owner notification letters were mailed August 22, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C13.
NHTSA campaign 22V454000reported Jun 24, 2022Ford 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
!critical

Fuel System, Gasoline

22C02
18,366 vehicles
ProblemFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The fuel filler tube may detach during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."RiskA detached fuel filler tube can result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.FixDealers will install a fuel vapor line redundant locking clip, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 4, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C02.
NHTSA campaign 22V088000reported Feb 16, 2022Ford Motor Company

NHTSA defect investigations

Engine — Loss of Motive Power closed

On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted a Defect Petition (DP22001) and opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE22007) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power in model year (MY) 2021 Ford Bronco vehicles equipped with 2.7L EcoBoost engines. Complainants were reporting sudden engine failure while driving resulting in a loss of motive power, often without the ability to restart. During PE22007, the cause of engine failure and loss of motive power in the subject vehicles was determined to be intake valve fracture, and the full scope of vehicles affected by the subject defect was identified as all MY 2021-2022 Ford and Lincoln models equipped with either the 2.7

Opened Sep 29, 2023 · closed Oct 31, 2024 · action EA23002

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

Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
263complaints filed

17 involved a crash · 1 a fire · 23 injuries · 0 deaths reported

Filed per year: 2022: 31 · 2023: 69 · 2024: 30 · 2025: 68 · 2026: 65

Most-cited components

Power Train60
Unspecified54
Electrical System39
Engine29
Back Over Prevention28
Fuel/Propulsion System22

What owners describe

“My check engine light has come on multiple times flashing and numerous issues with loss of power while driving. My vehicle will begin running rough and begin shaking while using the throttle. Prior to being made aware of this recall which describes the issues my vehicle is having perfectly, i took it to a Ford dealersh…”Aug 15, 2026 · Fuel/Propulsion System · NHTSA owner report
“leather wrapped dash panel delaminated from base on passenger side and curls up into windshield area blocking view and possibly obstucting air bag deployment on passenger side.”Jun 23, 2026 · Structure · NHTSA owner report
“The contact owns a 2022 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the engine randomly disconnected from the transmission and the vehicle started idling while losing motive power while attempting to accelerate. During the failure the message "Brake Applied; Power Reduced" was displayed. The…”Nov 3, 2022 · 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 4WDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV 4WDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV RWDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆15%
SUV RWDnot ratednot rated★★★★★★★★★☆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

2021 Ford Explorer

27 recalls · 421 complaints

F

2020 Ford Explorer

35 recalls · 1,209 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.

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