Car Defect Radar
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Built from NHTSA complaints and recalls collected for this model, generated October 26, 2026. Totals reflect what has been collected, not every complaint ever filed.
Confirm 15 recalls before you buy.

Ask the seller for proof the repair was completed, or run the free VIN check. Recall repairs are done at no cost by a dealer.

Recalls

15 total · 15 to confirm

Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 26V451000 · Jul 2026

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

Remedy
Dealers 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 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Seat belts recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 26V159000 · Mar 2026

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

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 26V123000 · Mar 2026

An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 25V685000 · Oct 2025

An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy
Owners 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 customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Fuel system recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 25V455000 · Jul 2025

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 25V442000 · Jun 2025

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.

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 25V393000 · Jun 2025

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

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 25V159000 · Mar 2025

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

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 24V852000 · Nov 2024

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.

Remedy
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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Suspension recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 24V091000 · Feb 2024

A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can cause improper tire alignment, resulting in a steering pull or require increased steering effort. Additionally, the brake hose may contact the tire and become damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak and a loss of braking ability. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Dealers will inspect the fasteners, and tighten or install them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 08, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S04.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 23V686000 · Oct 2023

A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera wire harness and repair any loose splices, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C31.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Engine recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 23V597000 · Aug 2023

An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as soon as possible if they see an oil pressure warning light or smoke coming from the engine compartment. Dealers will replace the turbo oil supply line assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S50.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 23V342000 · May 2023

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

Remedy
Dealers 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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Transmission recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 23V070000 · Feb 2023

The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy
Dealers 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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 23V022000 · Jan 2023

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

Remedy
Dealers 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.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Owner complaints by system

108 total

Unverified reports owners filed with NHTSA, grouped by the part of the car. Useful for spotting patterns. Open a group to read recent examples.

Engine & powertrain

Minor
20

Most reports here involve transmission slipping.

transmission slipping 7sudden stalling 6
A recent report: While driving, vehicle made a grinding sound, and all systems related to cruise, 4wd, decent control all illuminated on dash. Vehicle was taken to dealer, metro ford. Metro ford stated the transfer…
Read full complaint

While driving, vehicle made a grinding sound, and all systems related to cruise, 4wd, decent control all illuminated on dash. Vehicle was taken to dealer, metro ford. Metro ford stated the transfer case has failed internally, and being replaced under powertrain. A week later, I received a callback, and the service writer stated after replacing and a test drive- it is still an issue, and the vehicle has an issue- which they feel is the AWD module, AWD module failed causing clutch in transfer case to lock up when it shouldn’t be resulting in limited power and grinding and depletion of safety systems on vehicle. Dealer states ford is aware of the issue but offered me a discounted repair of 270 dollars vs the 7-800 that it costs to complete the repair. Vehicle is still in shop weeks later with warning lights on.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11764616 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Electrical & infotainment

Worth reading
19

Most reports here involve software faults.

software faults 10sudden stalling 3
A recent report: I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2023 Ford Explorer ST and my inability to obtain the remedy for NHTSA Campaign 26V123 / Ford Recall 26C11, involving a rearview-camera/SYNC display…
Read full complaint

I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2023 Ford Explorer ST and my inability to obtain the remedy for NHTSA Campaign 26V123 / Ford Recall 26C11, involving a rearview-camera/SYNC display condition that may reduce rear visibility and increase crash risk. RCAK-26V123-1258 2.pdf Kendall Ford of Anchorage has notified me in writing that it will no longer perform any work on my vehicle, including recalls. Kendall states recalls require a Ford-authorized facility and identifies Seekins Ford in Fairbanks as the closest non-Kendall Ford dealer. I contacted Ford for assistance. A Ford representative acknowledged Kendall’s refusal in a voicemail and stated, “The only thing that we can do in this instance is have you go to another dealership,” directing me elsewhere for the recall. However, Ford’s current 26C11 instructions identify Mobile Repair and Pickup & Delivery as available and specifically state, “Arrange for a mobile repair at the owner’s location.” I am not refusing the recall or requesting that Kendall perform it. I am requesting that Ford arrange a qualified Ford-authorized mobile repair rather than requiring me to travel hundreds of miles to Fairbanks. I respectfully request that NHTSA review Ford’s handling of my recall access and assist in ensuring I have a safe, practical means of obtaining the remedy. Supporting documentation: Kendall’s written correspondence, Ford’s voicemail acknowledging the refusal, and Ford’s current 26C11 instructions.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11755840 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Brakes

Worth reading
6

Most reports here involve loss of braking. Of these, 1 mention a crash.

loss of braking 2rollaway 1loss of steering 1
A recent report: A hissing noise coming from inside the vehicle when braking. The dealership isolated the problem and concluded it comes from the Brake Booster. The car just came out of manufacture warranty at 39,067…
Read full complaint

A hissing noise coming from inside the vehicle when braking. The dealership isolated the problem and concluded it comes from the Brake Booster. The car just came out of manufacture warranty at 39,067 miles. However, there is no check engine or dashboard light on yet.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11719684 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Steering, suspension & tires

Worth reading
22

Most reports here involve loss of steering. Of these, 3 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.

loss of steering 5premature wear 4
A recent report: Faint popping and knocking sound coming from front suspension, LOUD clunk coming from rear suspension when going over bumps. Both seem to cause vehicle to be floaty while driving. Also headlights…
Read full complaint

Faint popping and knocking sound coming from front suspension, LOUD clunk coming from rear suspension when going over bumps. Both seem to cause vehicle to be floaty while driving. Also headlights sometime flicker while driving with switch in auto position and sometimes will not shut off after exiting vehicle ( have to turn switch to off position and then back to auto to resolve ) Vehicle has approximately 21k miles on it but off warranty due to time. Will be bringing into local repair shop soon.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11749497 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Airbags & seat belts

Worth reading
8

Most reports here involve software faults. Of these, 3 mention a crash, 4 mention an injury.

software faults 2
A recent report: The contact owns a 2023 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her boyfriend was driving at 40 MPH, another vehicle did not stop at a stop sign and crashed into the front passenger side of the…
Read full complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while her boyfriend was driving at 40 MPH, another vehicle did not stop at a stop sign and crashed into the front passenger side of the vehicle. All of the air bags deployed. The contact's boyfriend suffered bruising to the wrist and left upper arm and redness on the right hand. The front passenger-side curtain air bag caused the contact second-degree chemical burn on the right side of the stomach when it burned through two layers of clothing. The contact also suffered from a sprained left foot and left hand and lacerations from the shoulders and elbows from the air bag deployment. The contact and her boyfriend were transported to the hospital via ambulance and received medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the tow yard but was not yet deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11739351 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Structure & body

Minor
22

Most reports here involve premature wear.

premature wear 1fluid leaks 1
A recent report: Purchased new June 2023, took delivery October 2023 due to camera recall. Drive to work 5 miles a day, less than 10000 miles on it yet my driver side dash is now Ingles and rolling up. I see this is…
Read full complaint

Purchased new June 2023, took delivery October 2023 due to camera recall. Drive to work 5 miles a day, less than 10000 miles on it yet my driver side dash is now Ingles and rolling up. I see this is a common issue. I paid extra for the King Ranch edition. Seems this should be a dealer covered repair. I would like this looked into.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11762481 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Other systems

Worth reading
11

Most reports here involve premature wear. Of these, 1 mention an injury.

premature wear 2unintended acceleration 1
A recent report: The exhaust pipe that connects a catalytic converter to the muffler broke and was dragging on the highway. It was during rish hour and was no safe place for me to pull over and within just a few…
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The exhaust pipe that connects a catalytic converter to the muffler broke and was dragging on the highway. It was during rish hour and was no safe place for me to pull over and within just a few miles, the other side of it broke off and the whole pipe between the catalytic converter and muffler fell into traffic behind me. Apparently this has been an issue with 2020-2022 model years but It needs to be extended further into atleast the 2023 model year since that is what I have.

Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11760401 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov

Is 108 complaints a lot? They were filed between 2023 and 2026, roughly 31 a year, which is more than the typical model in this dataset. We do not have sales figures for this model, so treat this as a rough volume, not a rate per car on the road. Popular, high-volume models naturally collect more complaints over time.

How does it compare with other years? The 2023 has 108 complaints on file, fewer than the 2022 (264) and more than the 2024 (20). Of the 17 model years of the Ford Explorer we cover, the 2016 has the most (2,448). Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.