Ford Explorer 2011–2019 problems by year and mileage
5th generation · U502 (Ford D4)
NHTSA data through 18 October 202612,949 complaints, 7,911 with mileageMethod
Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.
- 201170kmedian
- 201270k†median
- 201376k†median
- 201466k†median
- 201557k†median
- 201649k†median
- 201750k†median
- 201850k†median
- 201954k†median
The 2011 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 70,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 1,197
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
Most reported on the 2011
- Steering742 reports · median 68,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise112 reports · median 75,000 mi
- Body structure110 reports · median 100,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Steering — electric power assist system
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2012 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 70,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 829
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2012
- Steering360 reports · median 96,000 mi
- Body structure144 reports · median 96,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise105 reports · median 56,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Steering — electric power assist system
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2013 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 76,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 2,237
- Recalls naming this year
- 11
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2013
- Steering836 reports · median 95,000 mi
- Body structure439 reports · median 70,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise345 reports · median 59,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Fuel system, gasoline
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2014 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 66,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 1,681
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2014
- Steering499 reports · median 90,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise337 reports · median 40,000 mi
- Body structure276 reports · median 92,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Power train — axle assembly
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2015 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 57,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 1,808
- Recalls naming this year
- 8
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2015
- Body structure410 reports · median 90,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise404 reports · median 29,000 mi
- Steering347 reports · median 60,000 mi
Recall areas Back over prevention — sensing system · Structure — body · Suspension — rear
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2016 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 49,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 2,462
- Recalls naming this year
- 14
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2016
- Body structure591 reports · median 83,000 mi
- Steering532 reports · median 58,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise431 reports · median 20,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Equipment — electrical · Suspension — rear
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2017 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 50,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 1,702
- Recalls naming this year
- 13
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2017
- Body structure658 reports · median 76,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise373 reports · median 6,000 mi
- Engine241 reports · median 23,000 mi
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Equipment — electrical
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2018 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 50,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 734
- Recalls naming this year
- 7
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2018
- Body structure288 reports · median 61,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise168 reports · median 3,500 mi
- Engine96 reports
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Equipment — electrical
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2019 Ford Explorer
Close- Median failure report
- 54,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 299
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
† This median likely runs low (why).
Most reported on the 2019
- Body structure150 reports · median 63,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise47 reports
- Transmission and driveline35 reports
Recall areas Structure — body · Suspension — rear · Equipment — electrical
Check the VIN at NHTSA
Tiles: each year’s median failure mileage. † Median likely runs low (complaints filed after 2020). Latest: the 2013; earliest: the 2016, and the 2013 is 3 years older (part of the gap is age).
The short answer
“Is the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer reliable?”
- Median of reported failures
- 61,000 mi
- 90% of reports came by
- 139,000 mi
- Reports with mileage
- 7,911
- Recalls
- 32
At least 40% of this generation’s complaints came after 2020, so its median likely runs low (why).
Most reported
- Steering26.4% of complaints · median 78,000 mi
- Body structure23.7% of complaints · median 80,000 mi
- Problems owners could not categorise17.9% of complaints · median 31,000 mi
Owners filed 12,949 complaints with NHTSA about the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer; the steering leads with 26.4% of them, and half of the 7,911 that record an odometer reading came by 61,000 miles — complaints, not a failure rate.
No single peak: the middle half runs 30,000 to 100,000 miles.
Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗
How many miles does a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer last?
On the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer, half of the 7,911 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 61,000 miles and 90% by 139,000 miles (why that is not a lifespan).
599 reports came in past 150,000 miles and 106 past 200,000 — each one proof that an Explorer reached that mileage, not that it failed there.
Figure 1 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019 · 7,911 reports with mileage
Mileage at failure
5,000-mile bins, 0 to 200,000 miles, linear scale; tallest bar 672 complaints
- Rest of the range
- Median
- 200,000+ — 106 complaints (1.3%), plotted separately
- 10%
- 6,500
- 25%
- 30,000
- Median
- 61,000
- 75%
- 100,000
- 90%
- 139,000
Show the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5,000 | 672 | 8.5% |
| 5,000–10,000 | 310 | 3.9% |
| 10,000–15,000 | 266 | 3.4% |
| 15,000–20,000 | 244 | 3.1% |
| 20,000–25,000 | 265 | 3.3% |
| 25,000–30,000 | 216 | 2.7% |
| 30,000–35,000 | 261 | 3.3% |
| 35,000–40,000 | 299 | 3.8% |
| 40,000–45,000 | 348 | 4.4% |
| 45,000–50,000 | 321 | 4.1% |
| 50,000–55,000 | 341 | 4.3% |
| 55,000–60,000 | 269 | 3.4% |
| 60,000–65,000 | 311 | 3.9% |
| 65,000–70,000 | 263 | 3.3% |
| 70,000–75,000 | 296 | 3.7% |
| 75,000–80,000 | 235 | 3.0% |
| 80,000–85,000 | 282 | 3.6% |
| 85,000–90,000 | 225 | 2.8% |
| 90,000–95,000 | 251 | 3.2% |
| 95,000–100,000 | 202 | 2.6% |
| 100,000–105,000 | 301 | 3.8% |
| 105,000–110,000 | 172 | 2.2% |
| 110,000–115,000 | 169 | 2.1% |
| 115,000–120,000 | 115 | 1.5% |
| 120,000–125,000 | 167 | 2.1% |
| 125,000–130,000 | 113 | 1.4% |
| 130,000–135,000 | 122 | 1.5% |
| 135,000–140,000 | 90 | 1.1% |
| 140,000–145,000 | 115 | 1.5% |
| 145,000–150,000 | 71 | 0.9% |
| 150,000–155,000 | 125 | 1.6% |
| 155,000–160,000 | 61 | 0.8% |
| 160,000–165,000 | 66 | 0.8% |
| 165,000–170,000 | 59 | 0.7% |
| 170,000–175,000 | 46 | 0.6% |
| 175,000–180,000 | 26 | 0.3% |
| 180,000–185,000 | 39 | 0.5% |
| 185,000–190,000 | 21 | 0.3% |
| 190,000–195,000 | 26 | 0.3% |
| 195,000–200,000 | 24 | 0.3% |
| 200,000+ | 106 | 1.3% |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
Common Explorer problems, and when they happen
Figure 2 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019
When each system fails
Bar: middle half of reports · notch: median · proportional (log) scale (how to read it)
- Problems owners could not categorise2,322 reportsmedian 31,000middle half 8,000–60,000
- Fuel and propulsion system512 reportsmedian 35,000middle half 6,500–59,000
- Engine1,549 reportsmedian 38,000middle half 9,000–73,000
- Electrical system815 reportsmedian 51,000middle half 23,000–90,000
- Transmission and driveline828 reportsmedian 55,000middle half 25,000–90,000
- Steering3,422 reportsmedian 78,000middle half 44,000–117,000
- Body structure3,066 reportsmedian 80,000middle half 50,000–112,000
- Your odometer, once entered below
Ordered by median mileage, earliest first.
All systems in a table
| System | Complaints | Share | Median | 25–75% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steering | 3,422 | 26.4% | 78,000 | 44,000–117,000 |
| Body structure | 3,066 | 23.7% | 80,000 | 50,000–112,000 |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 2,322 | 17.9% | 31,000 | 8,000–60,000 |
| Engine | 1,549 | 12.0% | 38,000 | 9,000–73,000 |
| Transmission and driveline | 828 | 6.4% | 55,000 | 25,000–90,000 |
| Electrical system | 815 | 6.3% | 51,000 | 23,000–90,000 |
| Fuel and propulsion system | 512 | 4.0% | 35,000 | 6,500–59,000 |
| Suspension | 476 | 3.7% | 82,000 | 42,000–116,000 |
| Engine and its cooling system | 461 | 3.6% | 71,000 | 22,000–111,000 |
| Airbag system | 366 | 2.8% | 60,000 | 42,000–80,000 |
Known problems with the 2011–2019 Explorer
Drivetrain 2011–2019
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure on AWD models. The PTU sits adjacent to the catalytic converter, holds only about half a quart of gear oil, and was specified with 'lifetime' fluid and no service interval; heat breaks the fluid down, the internal gears and seals fail, producing a hot/gassy odor, whine, grinding and eventual seizure that can damage the transaxle.
Engine 2011–2019
Internal (timing-chain-driven) water pump failure on the 3.5L/3.7L Cyclone V6. The pump is behind the timing cover; when the seal fails, coolant can enter the crankcase and destroy bearings. Weep-hole drip near the alternator or A/C compressor is the early sign. Labor-intensive repair.
Exhaust/HVAC 2011–2017
Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) intrusion into the passenger cabin, subject of NHTSA investigations PE16-007 and EA17-002; associated with cracked exhaust manifolds and unsealed body seams in the rear quarter. Most acute on Police Interceptor Utility units with aftermarket upfitting.
Engine
Cracked exhaust manifolds producing a ticking noise that mimics a lifter/exhaust leak.
Infotainment 2011–2015
MyFord Touch (MFT) freezing, reboots and unresponsive touchscreen; subject of a class-action settlement.
Before you buy a 2011–2019 Explorer: the 3-minute check
Generated from 7,911 mileage-tagged complaints, 32 recall campaigns, 5 documented problem areas.
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 32 campaigns cover this generation.
- Check drivetrain on 2011–2019, most reported 2013–2019 cars. What each looks like: Known problems.
- Check engine on 2011–2019 cars.
- Check Exhaust/HVAC on 2011–2017 cars.
- Years differ here: from 299 to 2,462 complaints a year — compare them by model year.
- End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car.
Explorer problems by mileage: where your car sits
Type your odometer, or read the table.
| System | Middle half of reports, mi | At 60k mi48% below | At 90k mi69% below | At 120k mi84% below | At 150k mi92% below | At 200k mi99% below |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steering | 44,000–117,000 | in window | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Body structure | 50,000–112,000 | in window | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Problems owners could not categorise | 8,000–60,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Engine | 9,000–73,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Transmission and driveline | 25,000–90,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Electrical system | 23,000–90,000 | in window | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
| Fuel and propulsion system | 6,500–59,000 | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier | earlier |
Figure 3 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019 · 7,911 reports with mileage
Share of reports below each mileage
Steps at bin edges (how to read it)
- 60,000 mi — 48% of reports below
- 90,000 mi — 69% of reports below
- 120,000 mi — 84% of reports below
- 150,000 mi — 92% of reports below
- 200,000 mi — 99% of reports below
- Median (the 50% line)
- Your odometer, once entered
Linear axis, same as Figure 1.
2011–2019 Ford Explorer recalls (32)
NHTSA records 32 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation (what a recall is).
The campaigns cluster around the suspension (6), seats (6), body structure (5) (why one area can repeat).
Jul 2026 · 2016–2019 · StructureA detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
What can happen. A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk…
Feb 2026 · 2017–2019 · SuspensionA rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture.
What can happen. A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the toe links, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 16, 2026. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall…
Jan 2026 · 2019 · EquipmentAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
What can happen. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. 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…
Oct 2025 · 2015 · Back Over PreventionA rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a…
What can happen. A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model…
Oct 2025 · 2016–2018 · EquipmentAn electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford 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…
What can happen. An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. 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…
May 2025 · 2016–2017 · StructureDoor trim that detaches while driving can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Explorer vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
What can happen. Door trim that detaches while driving can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will repair the B-pillar trim, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed June 5, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available…
Jan 2024 · 2011–2019 · StructureA detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
What can happen. A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner…
Sep 2021 · 2011–2013 · SuspensionA rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota…
What can happen. A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealer will inspect for the presence of a CABJ. If a CABJ of any design is found, the dealer will inspect the tightness of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary, free…
Jul 2021 · 2013–2017 · SuspensionA rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New…
What can happen. A rear toe-link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle, and replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA…
May 2021 · 2016–2019 · StructureA detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.
What can happen. A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Dealers will install push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips and roof rail covers, as necessary, free of charge. The interim owner notification letter was mailed on June 22, 2021. Owner…
Mar 2021 · 2013–2017 · SuspensionA rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2017 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota…
What can happen. A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) knuckle attached to the rear suspension toe link and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began…
Nov 2020 · 2014–2016 · Power TrainThe failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Explorer, 2014-2015 Taurus and 2014 Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.3L engines and front wheel drive. The support bracket for the front drive axle halfshaft may fail.
What can happen. The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8…
Sep 2019 · 2017 · SeatsOccupants my contact the sharp edges when reaching between the power front seat and center console…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with power front seats. The seat frames may have sharp edges.
What can happen. Occupants my contact the sharp edges when reaching between the power front seat and center console, increasing their risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install protective tape on the exposed inside edge and tab of the power seat frames, free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2019. Owners may contact…
Aug 2019 · 2018–2019 · SeatsA seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual…
What can happen. A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford…
Jun 2019 · 2011–2017 · SuspensionA fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
What can happen. A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The…
Nov 2018 · 2018 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L or 3.5L GTDI engine. Due to an assembly error, the fuel pressure sensor may leak fuel.
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel line assembly, free of charge. The recall began December 7, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number…
Nov 2017 · 2016 · SeatsIn the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 F-150 and Explorer vehicles. Loose power seat adjuster pivot bolts may cause the front seat cushions to detach and not properly restrain the seat occupant in the event of a crash.
What can happen. In the event of a crash, a seat occupant that is not properly restrained has an increased risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tightness of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt, either applying threadlocker or replacing the lift link and hardware, free of charge.…
Aug 2017 · 2017 · SteeringIf the heat shield detaches, the steering gear may overheat, increasing the steering effort required by the…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Explorer, Taurus and Police Interceptor Utility and Sedan vehicles. The steering gear heat shield fasteners may corrode, allowing the heat shield to detach.
What can happen. If the heat shield detaches, the steering gear may overheat, increasing the steering effort required by the driver, especially at lower speeds, and increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers to inspect and replace the heat shield fasteners as needed, free of charge. The recall began on September 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
May 2017 · 2017 · SeatsIf the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased risk of injury.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017 Ford Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles equipped with a manual driver's seat back recliner mechanism. In the event of a crash, the seat back frame may not restrain the occupant due to…
What can happen. If the occupant is not adequately restrained in the event of a crash, they have an increased risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall began on June 7, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's…
Dec 2016 · 2017 · Engine and Engine CoolingAn oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply…
What can happen. An oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the turbocharger oil supply tubes, free of charge. The recall began on January 31, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer…
Jun 2016 · 2016 · SeatsThe seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Explorer and F-150 vehicles equipped with a manual recline driver's seat. The seat back frame may have insufficient welds which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety…
What can happen. The seat back may not adequately restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the seat back frame, free of charge. The recall begin on August 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.…
Apr 2016 · 2014–2015 · SuspensionA fracture of the rear suspension toe link may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured January 17, 2014 to May 31, 2014. The affected vehicles may have improperly welded rear suspension toe links that may fracture.
What can happen. A fracture of the rear suspension toe link may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.…
Mar 2016 · 2016 · Engine and Engine CoolingOverheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles manufactured November 25, 2013, to January 25, 2016, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured October 20, 2014, to January 28, 2016. The affected vehicles are…
What can happen. Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016.…
Dec 2015 · 2013 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may crack, allowing fuel to…
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's…
Sep 2015 · 2016 · Fuel System, GasolineIf the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured on July 24, 2015. During vehicle production, the fuel tank attachment bolts may not have been properly tightened. As a…
What can happen. If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the fuel tank attachment bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at…
Jul 2015 · 2015–2016 · Parking BrakeIf the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford Explorer vehicles…
What can happen. If the parking brake does not fully engage and the transmission is left in a gear other than 'Park' while on a slope, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the operation of the parking brake system, and if necessary, replace the parking brake control assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September…
Mar 2015 · 2011–2013 · StructureIf the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after…
What can happen. If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford…
May 2014 · 2011–2013 · SteeringIf the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can…
What can happen. If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of motor position sensor signal when the…
Jun 2013 · 2013 · Latches/Locks/LinkagesIf the child lock is deactivated, the door could be unlocked and opened from the inside which could lead to…
The defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Ford Explorer, Taurus, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured November 29, 2012, through December 12, 2012. In the affected vehicles, with sufficient door openings and closings, the child safety…
What can happen. If the child lock is deactivated, the door could be unlocked and opened from the inside which could lead to personal injury to an unrestrained child.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will test the safety locks. If necessary, the locks will be replaced free of charge. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Ford's recall number is 13S07. Owners may…
May 2013 · 2013 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may…
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at…
Mar 2013 · 2013 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and model year 2013 Explorer vehicles manufactured July 19, 2011, through March 15, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank. As a…
What can happen. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 9, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03. Owners may…
Feb 2011 · 2011 · SeatsIn the event of a crash, the seat back may not provide the required strength, increasing the risk of injury.
The defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2011 Explorer vehicles manufactured from july 15, 2010, through december 13, 2010, equipped with second row 60% seats with manual recliner mechanisms that may have components that are out of dimensional specification.…
What can happen. In the event of a crash, the seat back may not provide the required strength, increasing the risk of injury.
The free fix. Ford will notify owners and dealers will repair the seats free of charge. The safety recall began on february 15, 2011. Owners may contact Ford motor company customer relationship center at…
Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported
Out of 12,949 complaints against this generation, owners also reported:
- Crashes
- 244 (1.9%)
- Fires
- 60
- Injury reports
- 245
- Fatality reports
- 3
Explorer problems by model year
The 2016 drew the most complaints of this generation, 2,462, most of them about body structure, and the 2019 the fewest, 299. A typical year drew about 1,681.
| Year | Complaints | With mileage | Median miles | Most reported | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 1,197 | 877 | 70,000 | Steering (742) | 6 |
| 2012 | 829 | 566 | 70,000† | Steering (360) | 5 |
| 2013 | 2,237 | 1,531 | 76,000† | Steering (836) | 11 |
| 2014 | 1,681 | 1,019 | 66,000† | Steering (499) | 6 |
| 2015 | 1,808 | 1,158 | 57,000† | Body structure (410) | 8 |
| 2016 | 2,462 | 1,502 | 49,000† | Body structure (591) | 14 |
| 2017 | 1,702 | 851 | 50,000† | Body structure (658) | 13 |
| 2018 | 734 | 290 | 50,000† | Body structure (288) | 7 |
| 2019 | 299 | 117 | 54,000† | Body structure (150) | 6 |
What Explorer owners reported
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the passenger-side rear tire was low on air pressure. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact observed wires exposed on the inner tread of the tire. Additionally, the contact inspected the driver-side rear tire and observed…
2017 · 165,000 miles · Suspension
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to complete the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in reverse (R), the rearview camera displayed a blank or distorted image, followed…
2015 · 202,000 miles · Reversing camera and sensors
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while reversing at an undisclosed speed, the rear-view camera was intermittently inverted or inoperative. The contact stated that the message "Rear-view Camera Unavailable" was displayed. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number…
2015 · 90,000 miles · Reversing camera and sensors
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera was inoperable or displayed a brief image. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where the contact was provided with an estimate for the repair. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back…
2015 · 69,000 miles · Reversing camera and sensors
Built from 7,911 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-10-20 · open data · how it is built
Other Explorer generations
- Explorer 1991–1994 175 reports with mileage, most about the tyres
- Explorer 1995–2001 1,534 reports with mileage, most about the tyres
- Explorer 2002–2005 4,953 reports with mileage, most about the transmission and driveline
- Explorer 2006–2010 980 reports with mileage, most about the transmission and driveline
- Explorer 2020–2025 622 reports with mileage, most about the transmission and driveline