MileageCurve What breaks, and at what mileage
  1. Home
  2. Ford
  3. Explorer 2020–2025

Ford Explorer 2020–2025

6th generation · U625 (Ford CD6, longitudinal RWD-based)

NHTSA data through 13 August 20262,907 complaints, 802 with mileageMethod

Reports with mileage
802
Median of reported failures
20,000 mi
Most-reported system
Transmission and driveline (23.1%)
Recalls
62

Before-you-buy checklist ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

On this generation, 42% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 5 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000.

Figure 1 · Ford Explorer 2020–2025 · 802 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 10,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 287 complaints.

Mileage at failure, Ford Explorer 2020–2025Histogram of 802 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 10,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 10,000 miles with 287 complaints, 35.8 percent of the total. 42% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 5 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000. A further 1 complaints, 0.1 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 20,000.
  • First 12,000 miles — 42% of all failures
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 1 complaints (0.1%), plotted separately
10%
1,400
25%
5,900
Median
20,000
75%
58,002
90%
87,159

Tallest bin: 287 complaints between 0 and 10,000 miles. Based on 802 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 10,000 miles.

Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–10,00028735.8%
10,000–20,00010212.7%
20,000–30,000526.5%
30,000–40,000556.9%
40,000–50,000607.5%
50,000–60,000526.5%
60,000–70,000536.6%
70,000–80,000394.9%
80,000–90,000283.5%
90,000–100,000263.2%
100,000–110,000192.4%
110,000–120,000121.5%
120,000–130,000121.5%
130,000–140,00010.1%
140,000–150,00010.1%
170,000–180,00010.1%
180,000–190,00010.1%
200,000+10.1%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Owners filed 2,907 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer, and 802 of them record the mileage at which the failure happened. That is enough to show not just what fails, but when.

42% of complaints that record mileage fall within the first 12,000 miles, against 5 reports per 1,000 miles between 20,000 and 80,000. Failures clustered that early usually indicate a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear.

The most-reported areas are the transmission and driveline (23.1% of complaints, typically around 37,000 miles), problems owners could not categorise (13.0% of complaints, typically around 6,000 miles), the electrical system (10.2% of complaints, typically around 11,000 miles).

62 recall campaigns cover this generation.

If you arrived asking “is it reliable?” — this page answers the version of that question the data can support: which problems owners reported, and at what mileage.

How many miles does a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer last?

Half of the failure reports on the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer were filed by 20,000 miles and 90% by 87,000 miles — figures drawn from 802 NHTSA complaints that record an odometer reading, so they time reported failures, not the cars whose owners never filed one.

1 report (0.1%) came in past 200,000 miles — each one proof a Explorer reached that mileage, not that it died there.

Before you buy a 2020–2025 Explorer: the 3-minute check

Generated from 802 mileage-tagged complaints, 62 recall campaigns, 3 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 62 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
  2. Ask for problems owners could not categorise repair records. This area fails at a median of 6,000 miles — on any car this age it already happened or never will; the question is whether it was fixed under warranty.
  3. Ask for electrical system repair records. This area fails at a median of 11,000 miles — on any car this age it already happened or never will; the question is whether it was fixed under warranty.
  4. Check drivetrain on 2020–2022 (AWD with 2.3L EcoBoost or 3.3L hybrid) cars. Rear axle horizontal mounting bolt can fracture under hard acceleration, allowing the driveshaft to disconnect from the rear axle. Because the park pawl acts on the transmission output side, a disconnected driveshaft…
  5. Check powertrain control on 2025 cars. PCM can intermittently reset while driving, causing loss of drive power, inability to shift into Park, or unintended engagement of Park at speed with possible pawl damage.
  6. Check assembly quality on 2020 cars. Chicago Assembly launch-quality problems produced an unusually dense recall cluster in the first model year, spanning trim, wiring, seat, and rear-view camera issues.
  7. Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
  8. End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car. Aggregate data describes the population; the example in front of you has its own history.

For a buyer, an early-failure pattern is comparatively good news on a used example: 42% of the reported failures occur in the first 12,000 miles, which on a car of this age means they have already happened or they were never going to. Service history matters more than mileage here.

On inspection, the transmission and driveline and problems owners could not categorise are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. Problems owners could not categorise in particular shows a median failure mileage of 6,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

What fails, and when

Figure 2 · Ford Explorer 2020–2025

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

  1. Problems owners could not categorise377 reports6,000896–9,000Problems owners could not categorise: 377 reports, median 6,000 miles, middle half 896 to 9,000 miles.
  2. Brakes128 reports7,0002,000–20,000Brakes: 128 reports, median 7,000 miles, middle half 2,000 to 20,000 miles.
  3. Forward collision avoidance144 reports10,0006,500–32,000Forward collision avoidance: 144 reports, median 10,000 miles, middle half 6,500 to 32,000 miles.
  4. Electrical system297 reports11,0004,500–44,000Electrical system: 297 reports, median 11,000 miles, middle half 4,500 to 44,000 miles.
  5. Engine202 reports14,0006,000–80,000Engine: 202 reports, median 14,000 miles, middle half 6,000 to 80,000 miles.
  6. Reversing camera and sensors190 reports23,0007,000–40,000Reversing camera and sensors: 190 reports, median 23,000 miles, middle half 7,000 to 40,000 miles.
  7. Transmission and driveline671 reports37,0008,500–72,000Transmission and driveline: 671 reports, median 37,000 miles, middle half 8,500 to 72,000 miles.
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Transmission and driveline67123.1%37,0008,500–72,000
Problems owners could not categorise37713.0%6,000896–9,000
Electrical system29710.2%11,0004,500–44,000
Engine2026.9%14,0006,000–80,000
Reversing camera and sensors1906.5%23,0007,000–40,000
Forward collision avoidance1445.0%10,0006,500–32,000
Brakes1284.4%7,0002,000–20,000
Visibility/wiper1113.8%——
Body structure933.2%40,00012,000–62,000
Suspension812.8%12,0003,000–60,000

Where your car sits

Failure reports by the odometer reading they were filed at. Pick the anchor nearest your car — or type the exact mileage: your marker lands on this curve and on the timing chart above.

Figure 3 · Ford Explorer 2020–2025 · 802 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

Cumulative share of reports by mileage, Ford Explorer 2020–2025Of 802 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 10,000-mile bin edge. 76 percent below 60,000 miles. 91 percent below 90,000 miles. 98 percent below 120,000 miles. Median 20,000 miles.
  • 60,000 mi — 76% of reports below
  • 90,000 mi — 91% of reports below
  • 120,000 mi — 98% of reports below
  • Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it below

The staircase tops out at 100%: the remaining 0.1% of reports (1) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

At 60,000 miles

76% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 6,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 11,000 mi
  • Reversing camera and sensors — median 23,000 mi
  • Forward collision avoidance — median 10,000 mi
  • Brakes — median 7,000 mi

In the reporting window

  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 8,500–72,000 mi
  • Engine — middle half 6,000–80,000 mi

At 90,000 miles

91% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Transmission and driveline — median 37,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 6,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 11,000 mi
  • Engine — median 14,000 mi
  • Reversing camera and sensors — median 23,000 mi
  • Forward collision avoidance — median 10,000 mi
  • Brakes — median 7,000 mi

At 120,000 miles

98% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Transmission and driveline — median 37,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 6,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 11,000 mi
  • Engine — median 14,000 mi
  • Reversing camera and sensors — median 23,000 mi
  • Forward collision avoidance — median 10,000 mi
  • Brakes — median 7,000 mi

Which systems, and when

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 20,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 23.1% of complaints (671 reports, 225 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails late — a median of 37,000 miles, considerably beyond the vehicle's overall median. That pattern is consistent with normal service life rather than a defect, though it matters for anyone buying an example already near that mileage. The middle half of these reports falls between 8,500 and 72,000 miles.

Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 13.0% of complaints (377 reports, 35 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 6,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 896 and 9,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 10.2% of complaints (297 reports, 84 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 11,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 4,500 and 44,000 miles.

The engine accounts for 6.9% of complaints (202 reports, 52 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 14,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 6,000 and 80,000 miles.

The reversing camera and sensors account for 6.5% of complaints (190 reports, 70 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 23,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 7,000 and 40,000 miles.

Forward collision avoidance accounts for 5.0% of complaints (144 reports, 24 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 10,000 miles, well before the vehicle's overall median. Failures clustered this far below the rest of the car usually point to a design or manufacturing problem rather than wear, because wear does not selectively target one system on low-mileage examples. The middle half of these reports falls between 6,500 and 32,000 miles.

Differences between model years

Within this generation, complaint volume is not constant across model years. The 2020 model year drew the most — 1,676 complaints — while 2024 drew the fewest at 26. The median year sits at 253.

That makes 2020 an outlier: roughly 6.6 times the median year of this generation. A single year standing that far apart usually reflects either a first-year issue that was later corrected, or a component change introduced for that year. Anyone shopping this generation has a straightforward reason to prefer a different year, all else being equal.

Recalls and what they cover

NHTSA records 62 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

The campaigns cluster around the reversing camera and sensors (12), the transmission and driveline (9), the fuel system (6). Repeated recalls against the same area of the car generally mean the first remedy did not fully resolve the underlying problem.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Reported severity

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 2,907 complaints against this generation:

Crashes
126 (4.3%)
Fires
31
Injury reports
87
Fatality reports
0

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Documented problems

Drivetrain 2020–2022 (AWD with 2.3L EcoBoost or 3.3L hybrid)

Rear axle horizontal mounting bolt can fracture under hard acceleration, allowing the driveshaft to disconnect from the rear axle. Because the park pawl acts on the transmission output side, a disconnected driveshaft means the vehicle can roll away when shifted to Park; also causes sudden loss of drive. Multiple recalls covering roughly 250,000-290,000 vehicles.

Powertrain Control 2025

PCM can intermittently reset while driving, causing loss of drive power, inability to shift into Park, or unintended engagement of Park at speed with possible pawl damage.

Assembly Quality 2020

Chicago Assembly launch-quality problems produced an unusually dense recall cluster in the first model year, spanning trim, wiring, seat, and rear-view camera issues.

By model year

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileage
20201,676548
2021552124
202235875
202314831
2024266
202514718

Recalls (62) — is your car included?

Recalls are fixed free of charge at any dealer, for any owner. Check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The text below is NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. Jul 2026 · 2025 · Engine and Engine CoolingAn unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ranger, Lincoln Nautilus, Mustang, Maverick, Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Corsair, Bronco Sport, and Bronco vehicles. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may fail, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.

    What can happen. An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the EGR valves, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 31, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.

    NHTSA campaign 26V122000, reported 2026-07-31.

  2. Jul 2026 · 2021–2023 · Fuel System, GasolineAn engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford 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.

    What can happen. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers 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 25V455000, reported 2026-07-27.

  3. Jun 2026 · 2024 · Power TrainA park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 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.

    What can happen. A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect for park system damage and replace the park system components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2026. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S39. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 12, 2026.

    NHTSA campaign 26V371000, reported 2026-06-24.

  4. Jun 2026 · 2020–2024 · Back Over PreventionAn incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driverâ s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

    What can happen. An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driverâ s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.

    NHTSA campaign 26V123000, reported 2026-06-23.

  5. Apr 2026 · 2025 · Back Over PreventionLoss of the rearview camera image and certain driver assistance features, can reduce the driverâ s ability to…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2025 Lincoln Navigator, 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2025 Lincoln Aviator and Explorer vehicles. The Image Processing Module A (IPMA) may experience multiple unexpected resets, resulting in loss of the rearview camera image and advanced driver assistance (ADAS) features, including pre-collision assist, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

    What can happen. Loss of the rearview camera image and certain driver assistance features, can reduce the driverâ s ability to detect hazards, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. The Image Processing Module A software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. This is a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2025 Aviator, 2025 Explorer, 2025 Nautilus notified owners on 4/13/2026. Phase 2 will include 2025 Navigator will notify owners on or about 4/20/2026. Phase 3 will include 2022-2024 Navigator will notify owners on or about 6/8/2026. Phase 4 will include 2024 Nautilus will notify owners on or about 6/22/2026. Owner notification letters were mailed April 13, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Fo

    NHTSA campaign 26V165000, reported 2026-04-13.

  6. Mar 2026 · 2020–2025 · Seat BeltsA loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.

    What can happen. A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.

    NHTSA campaign 26V159000, reported 2026-03-30.

  7. Mar 2026 · 2025 · Exterior LightingA headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Explorer vehicles. The Dynamic Bending Light (DBL) system software may cause the passenger-side headlight to turn in the wrong direction when driving through curves in the road. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

    What can happen. A headlight that turns incorrectly can result in increased glare to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. The headlight control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C12. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.

    NHTSA campaign 26V121000, reported 2026-03-23.

  8. Nov 2025 · 2025 · VisibilityReduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Lincoln Corsair, Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."

    What can happen. Reduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 6, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C60. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 27, 2025.

    NHTSA campaign 25V730000, reported 2025-11-06.

  9. Oct 2025 · 2024–2025 · Trailer HitchesWhile towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.

    What can happen. While towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach. Either of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten the trailer hitch bolts, or replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA3. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

    NHTSA campaign 25V687000, reported 2025-10-29.

  10. Oct 2025 · 2025 · Exterior LightingTrailer tail lights that do not illuminate as intended can reduce visibility to other drivers, increasing the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. When towing a trailer, the tail lights on the trailer may fail to illuminate due to an improperly manufactured body control module. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

    What can happen. Trailer tail lights that do not illuminate as intended can reduce visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the body control module C on vehicles with less than 9,000 miles. For vehicles over 9,000 miles, dealers will perform a functional check on the body control module C and replace it as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Aviator 2025 owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2025. Explorer 2025 owner letters were mailed November 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C42.

    NHTSA campaign 25V543000, reported 2025-10-13.

  11. Sep 2025 · 2020–2024 · Back Over PreventionA rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.

    What can happen. A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.

    NHTSA campaign 25V442000, reported 2025-09-04.

  12. Aug 2025 · 2025 · Engine and Engine CoolingA damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Transit, F-150, and Explorer vehicles. The connecting rod and rod bearing components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.

    What can happen. A damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the connecting rods and replace the engine long block assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S55.

    NHTSA campaign 25V344000, reported 2025-08-15.

  13. Aug 2025 · 2020–2022 · EngineAn engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility Package. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.

    What can happen. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number f

    NHTSA campaign 24V598000, reported 2025-08-13.

  14. Aug 2025 · 2020–2025 · SeatsA seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.

    What can happen. A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.

    NHTSA campaign 25V393000, reported 2025-08-07.

  15. Jul 2025 · 2021–2022 · Engine and Engine CoolingA loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford 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.

    What can happen. A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers 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 24V635000, reported 2025-07-03.

  16. Jun 2025 · 2025 · Service Brakes, HydraulicLoss of brake function and wheel damage can increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer vehicles. The bolts securing the front brake caliper may not be tightened properly, which can result in a loss of front brake function and possible wheel damage.

    What can happen. Loss of brake function and wheel damage can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten the bolts as necessary. If bolts are missing, the brake caliper and pads will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 19, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S60.

    NHTSA campaign 25V371000, reported 2025-06-20.

  17. Jun 2025 · 2025 · Power TrainA damaged park system can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer vehicles. The powertrain control module (PCM) may reset while driving, which can damage the park system or cause an engine stall.

    What can happen. A damaged park system can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. An engine stall while driving can result in a sudden loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S35.

    NHTSA campaign 25V239000, reported 2025-06-06.

  18. Jun 2025 · 2020–2021 · Seat BeltsA loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.

    What can happen. A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.

    NHTSA campaign 25V093000, reported 2025-06-05.

  19. May 2025 · 2025 · StructureA loose subframe bolt may reduce the vehicle's performance in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. A mounting bolt for the front subframe may have been tightened improperly.

    What can happen. A loose subframe bolt may reduce the vehicle's performance in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten the subframe bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Owner notification letters were mailed May 21, 2025. Ford's number for this recall is 25S43.

    NHTSA campaign 25V316000, reported 2025-05-21.

  20. Apr 2025 · 2020–2022 · Power TrainA disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 23V-199 or 22V-255. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.

    What can happen. A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S22.

    NHTSA campaign 25V166000, reported 2025-04-25.

  21. Apr 2025 · 2020–2023 · Back Over PreventionLoss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

    What can happen. Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.

    NHTSA campaign 25V159000, reported 2025-04-25.

  22. Apr 2025 · 2025 · Power TrainUnexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Bronco, 2024 Ranger, 2025 Mustang, Explorer, and Aviator vehicles. The transmission valve body may have been machined incorrectly, which can cause reverse gear failure, or unexpected forward movement in reverse or neutral gear.

    What can happen. Unexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the transmission main control valve body, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S19.

    NHTSA campaign 25V164000, reported 2025-04-11.

  23. Mar 2025 · 2025 · Back Over PreventionThe loss of the rearview camera image while in reverse can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The rearview camera image may fail when the vehicle speed reaches 10 MPH or greater. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

    What can happen. The loss of the rearview camera image while in reverse can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C34.

    NHTSA campaign 24V801000, reported 2025-03-28.

  24. Jan 2025 · 2025 · StructureAn improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The transmission may be improperly secured due to loose cross member bolts.

    What can happen. An improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission cross member bolts as necessary, free of charge. If the cross member bolts are missing, dealers will replace the cross member and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S03.

    NHTSA campaign 25V020000, reported 2025-01-29.

  25. Dec 2024 · 2020–2025 · EquipmentWithout a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of…

    The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

    What can happen. Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

    The free fix. Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

    NHTSA campaign 24V852000, reported 2024-12-19.

Showing the 25 most recent of 62 campaigns.

What owners reported

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated the day he purchased the vehicle, the rearview camera turned blank as he was reversing out of the dealer parking lot. The warning message "Back Up Brake Assist Is Not Functioning" appeared on the instrument panel. The dealer diagnosed that the rear-view camera…

2020 · 10 miles · Reversing camera and sensors

The vehicle is randomly braking for no unknown reason. Almost like if i was driving and put on emergency brake. It mostly does it while in reverse when there is literally nothing around me. There is an option and it has still does it with option off. It has nearly caused 1 accident when i was in my sons car pool line…

2020 · 15 miles · Brakes

the contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon purchase of the vehicle, the rearview camera would lose stream upon use as the reverse brake assist not available; see manual warning message would illuminate on the instrument panel. The contact spoke with tomball Ford (22702 tx-249, tomball, tx…

2020 · 20 miles · Reversing camera and sensors

My 2020 Ford Explorer, bought brand new. At 25k miles, car started to make this weird sound when the gear shifts 1-2 and 2-3 when accelerating. Now every time it shifts very noticeably from 1-2 and 2-3, it jerks so hard. It is so annoying. Seriously so disappointed this car is my dream car. Love everything else about…

2020 · 25 miles · Transmission and driveline

Built from 802 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-08-18 · open data · reproduce this page

Other generations