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Ford Explorer 2011–2019 problems by year and mileage

5th generation · U502 (Ford D4)

NHTSA data through 24 September 202612,896 complaints, 7,896 with mileageMethod

Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.

The 2011 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
70,000 mi
Complaints filed
1,197
Recalls naming this year
6

Most reported on the 2011

  1. Steering742 reports · median 68,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise112 reports · median 75,000 mi
  3. Body structure110 reports · median 100,000 mi

6 recall campaigns name the 2011: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Steering — electric power assist system. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2012 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
70,000 mi
Complaints filed
827
Recalls naming this year
5

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2012 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2012

  1. Steering358 reports · median 95,000 mi
  2. Body structure144 reports · median 96,000 mi
  3. Problems owners could not categorise105 reports · median 56,000 mi

5 recall campaigns name the 2012: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Steering — electric power assist system. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2013 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
76,000 mi
Complaints filed
2,234
Recalls naming this year
11

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2013 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2013

  1. Steering835 reports · median 95,000 mi
  2. Body structure438 reports · median 70,000 mi
  3. Problems owners could not categorise344 reports · median 59,000 mi

11 recall campaigns name the 2013: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Fuel system, gasoline. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2014 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
66,000 mi
Complaints filed
1,678
Recalls naming this year
6

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2014 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2014

  1. Steering498 reports · median 90,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise336 reports · median 40,000 mi
  3. Body structure276 reports · median 92,000 mi

6 recall campaigns name the 2014: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Power train — axle assembly. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2015 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
57,000 mi
Complaints filed
1,791
Recalls naming this year
8

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2015 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2015

  1. Body structure409 reports · median 90,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise402 reports · median 29,000 mi
  3. Steering345 reports · median 60,000 mi

8 recall campaigns name the 2015: Back over prevention — sensing system; Structure — body; Suspension — rear. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2016 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
49,000 mi
Complaints filed
2,451
Recalls naming this year
14

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2016 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2016

  1. Body structure585 reports · median 82,000 mi
  2. Steering530 reports · median 58,000 mi
  3. Problems owners could not categorise428 reports · median 20,000 mi

14 recall campaigns name the 2016: Structure — body; Equipment — electrical; Suspension — rear. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2017 Ford Explorer

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Median failure report
50,000 mi
Complaints filed
1,691
Recalls naming this year
13

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2017 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2017

  1. Body structure656 reports · median 76,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise369 reports · median 6,000 mi
  3. Engine237 reports · median 23,000 mi

13 recall campaigns name the 2017: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Equipment — electrical. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2018 Ford Explorer

Close
Median failure report
50,000 mi
Complaints filed
731
Recalls naming this year
7

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2018 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2018

  1. Body structure288 reports · median 61,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise167 reports · median 3,500 mi
  3. Engine95 reports

7 recall campaigns name the 2018: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Equipment — electrical. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

The 2019 Ford Explorer

Close
Median failure report
53,000 mi
Complaints filed
296
Recalls naming this year
6

At least 40% of the complaints about the 2019 were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. The median here rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported on the 2019

  1. Body structure150 reports · median 63,000 mi
  2. Problems owners could not categorise45 reports
  3. Transmission and driveline35 reports

6 recall campaigns name the 2019: Structure — body; Suspension — rear; Equipment — electrical. Not every car in a campaign is affected — check the VIN at NHTSA. Recall repairs are free.

When each system fails on this generation →

Each tile shows the median mileage at which that model year’s failures were reported. † marks a year whose median likely understates the mileage: much of its reporting came after 2020, when most complaints stopped recording an odometer reading. The 2013 reports latest and the 2016 earliest, but part of that gap is age: the 2013 has had 3 more years on the road to accumulate mileage.

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
7,896
Recalls
32

At least 40% of this generation’s complaints were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading, so the median likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

Most reported

  1. Steering26.5% of complaints · median 77,000 mi
  2. Body structure23.7% of complaints · median 80,000 mi
  3. Problems owners could not categorise17.9% of complaints · median 31,000 mi

When each system fails ↓

Documented problems

What each one is ↓

Owners filed 12,896 complaints with NHTSA about the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer; the steering leads with 26.5% of them, and half of the 7,896 that record an odometer reading came by 61,000 miles. A count like this can’t rate reliability on its own: NHTSA records what owners chose to report, not how many of each car were sold.

Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 30,000 and 100,000 miles.

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

How many miles does a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer last?

Complaint records can’t measure how long a car lasts; they show when reported failures happened. On the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer, half of the 7,896 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 61,000 miles and 90% by 139,000 miles.

595 reports came in past 150,000 miles and 104 past 200,000 — each one proof that an Explorer reached that mileage, not that it failed there.

Figure 1 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019 · 7,896 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 672 complaints.

Mileage at failure, Ford Explorer 2011–2019Histogram of 7,896 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 5,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 5,000 miles with 672 complaints, 8.5 percent of the total. Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 30,000 and 100,000 miles. A further 104 complaints, 1.3 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 60,978.
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 104 complaints (1.3%), plotted separately
10%
6,250
25%
30,000
Median
60,978
75%
100,000
90%
139,000

Tallest bin: 672 complaints between 0 and 5,000 miles. Based on 7,896 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–5,0006728.5%
5,000–10,0003103.9%
10,000–15,0002663.4%
15,000–20,0002443.1%
20,000–25,0002653.4%
25,000–30,0002152.7%
30,000–35,0002613.3%
35,000–40,0002993.8%
40,000–45,0003484.4%
45,000–50,0003214.1%
50,000–55,0003414.3%
55,000–60,0002693.4%
60,000–65,0003113.9%
65,000–70,0002623.3%
70,000–75,0002963.7%
75,000–80,0002343.0%
80,000–85,0002823.6%
85,000–90,0002252.8%
90,000–95,0002503.2%
95,000–100,0002012.5%
100,000–105,0003013.8%
105,000–110,0001712.2%
110,000–115,0001682.1%
115,000–120,0001141.4%
120,000–125,0001672.1%
125,000–130,0001131.4%
130,000–135,0001221.5%
135,000–140,000881.1%
140,000–145,0001141.4%
145,000–150,000710.9%
150,000–155,0001241.6%
155,000–160,000610.8%
160,000–165,000660.8%
165,000–170,000580.7%
170,000–175,000460.6%
175,000–180,000260.3%
180,000–185,000390.5%
185,000–190,000210.3%
190,000–195,000260.3%
195,000–200,000240.3%
200,000+1041.3%

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.

Common Explorer problems, and when they happen

Figure 2 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019

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 categorise2,308 reports31,0008,000–60,000Problems owners could not categorise: 2,308 reports, median 31,000 miles, middle half 8,000 to 60,000 miles.
  2. Fuel and propulsion system511 reports35,0006,500–59,000Fuel and propulsion system: 511 reports, median 35,000 miles, middle half 6,500 to 59,000 miles.
  3. Engine1,541 reports38,0009,000–73,000Engine: 1,541 reports, median 38,000 miles, middle half 9,000 to 73,000 miles.
  4. Electrical system809 reports51,00023,000–90,000Electrical system: 809 reports, median 51,000 miles, middle half 23,000 to 90,000 miles.
  5. Transmission and driveline825 reports55,00025,000–90,000Transmission and driveline: 825 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 25,000 to 90,000 miles.
  6. Steering3,413 reports77,00044,000–117,000Steering: 3,413 reports, median 77,000 miles, middle half 44,000 to 117,000 miles.
  7. Body structure3,056 reports80,00050,000–112,000Body structure: 3,056 reports, median 80,000 miles, middle half 50,000 to 112,000 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.

All systems in a table
Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Steering3,41326.5%77,00044,000–117,000
Body structure3,05623.7%80,00050,000–112,000
Problems owners could not categorise2,30817.9%31,0008,000–60,000
Engine1,54111.9%38,0009,000–73,000
Transmission and driveline8256.4%55,00025,000–90,000
Electrical system8096.3%51,00023,000–90,000
Fuel and propulsion system5114.0%35,0006,500–59,000
Suspension4753.7%82,00042,000–116,000
Engine and its cooling system4613.6%71,00022,000–111,000
Airbag system3662.8%60,00042,000–80,000
System by system, in words

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 61,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The steering accounts for 26.5% of complaints (3,413 reports, 2,395 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 77,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 44,000 and 117,000 miles.

A single system taking 26.5% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.

Body structure accounts for 23.7% of complaints (3,056 reports, 1,554 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 80,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 50,000 and 112,000 miles.

Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 17.9% of complaints (2,308 reports, 1,181 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 31,000 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 8,000 and 60,000 miles.

The engine accounts for 11.9% of complaints (1,541 reports, 994 of them with a mileage figure), and it fails early — a median of 38,000 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 9,000 and 73,000 miles.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 6.4% of complaints (825 reports, 561 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 25,000 and 90,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 6.3% of complaints (809 reports, 466 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 51,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 23,000 and 90,000 miles.

Known problems with the 2011–2019 Explorer

Drivetrain 2011–2019

Affected: most reported 2013–2019

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 7,896 mileage-tagged complaints, 32 recall campaigns, 5 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 32 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
  2. Check drivetrain on 2011–2019, most reported 2013–2019 cars. 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…
  3. Check engine on 2011–2019 cars. 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…
  4. Check exhaust/hvac on 2011–2017 cars. 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…
  5. Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
  6. 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, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, with a median of 61,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.

On inspection, the steering and body structure are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The steering in particular shows a median failure mileage of 77,000, 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.

Explorer problems by mileage: where your car sits

Type your odometer reading, or read the common mileages in the table. Your marker lands on the timing chart above and on the curve below.

earlier most reports on that system came below this mileage — ask for repair records. in window this mileage sits inside the middle half of its reports. later most reports came above it. That describes reports, not your odds.

Where each system’s reports sit against common odometer readings
SystemMiddle half of reports, miAt 60k mi48% belowAt 90k mi69% belowAt 120k mi84% belowAt 150k mi92% belowAt 200k mi99% below
Steering44,000–117,000in windowin windowearlierearlierearlier
Body structure50,000–112,000in windowin windowearlierearlierearlier
Problems owners could not categorise8,000–60,000earlierearlierearlierearlierearlier
Engine9,000–73,000in windowearlierearlierearlierearlier
Transmission and driveline25,000–90,000in windowearlierearlierearlierearlier
Electrical system23,000–90,000in windowearlierearlierearlierearlier
Fuel and propulsion system6,500–59,000earlierearlierearlierearlierearlier

Figure 3 · Ford Explorer 2011–2019 · 7,896 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 2011–2019Of 7,896 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 5,000-mile bin edge. 48 percent below 60,000 miles. 69 percent below 90,000 miles. 84 percent below 120,000 miles. 92 percent below 150,000 miles. 99 percent below 200,000 miles. Median 60,978 miles.
  • 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 staircase crosses the 50% line here
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it above

The staircase tops out at 99%: the remaining 1.3% of reports (104) came above 200,000 miles.

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

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

2011–2019 Ford Explorer recalls (32)

NHTSA records 32 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 suspension (6), seats (6), body structure (5). Several campaigns against one area can mean a remedy that did not hold, or separate defects in parts filed under the same heading; the summaries below name each defect.

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.

Recall repairs are free at an authorized dealer, for any owner. Summaries below shorten NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 26V-448 (2026-07-14).

  2. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 26V-101 (2026-02-20).

  3. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 26V-012 (2026-01-15).

  4. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 25V-695 (2025-10-13).

  5. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 25V-685 (2025-10-10).

  6. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 25V-347 (2025-05-23).

  7. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 24V-031 (2024-01-19).

  8. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 21V-746 (2021-09-22).

  9. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 21V-537 (2021-07-15).

  10. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 21V-316 (2021-05-05).

  11. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 20V-675 (2021-03-12).

  12. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 20V-692 (2020-11-10).

  13. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 19V-651 (2019-09-11).

  14. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 19V-633 (2019-08-28).

  15. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 19V-435 (2019-06-10).

  16. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 18V-807 (2018-11-14).

  17. 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.…

    NHTSA campaign 17V-767 (2017-11-29).

  18. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 17V-530 (2017-08-28).

  19. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 17V-332 (2017-05-22).

  20. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 16V-925 (2016-12-22).

  21. 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.…

    NHTSA campaign 16V-475 (2016-06-28).

  22. 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.…

    NHTSA campaign 16V-245 (2016-04-26).

  23. 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.…

    NHTSA campaign 16V-183 (2016-03-31).

  24. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 15V-812 (2015-12-02).

  25. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 15V-605 (2015-09-28).

  26. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 15V-464 (2015-07-24).

  27. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 15V-171 (2015-03-24).

  28. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-286 (2014-05-29).

  29. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-270 (2013-06-26).

  30. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-227 (2013-05-31).

  31. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-109 (2013-03-27).

  32. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 11V-063 (2011-02-02).

Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 12,896 complaints against this generation:

Crashes
244 (1.9%)
Fires
60
Injury reports
245
Fatality reports
3

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.

Explorer problems by model year

The 2016 drew the most complaints of this generation, 2,451, most of them about body structure, and the 2019 the fewest, 296. A typical year drew about 1,678.

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileageMedian milesMost reportedRecalls
20111,19787770,000Steering (742)6
201282756470,000†Steering (358)5
20132,2341,53076,000†Steering (835)11
20141,6781,01966,000†Steering (498)6
20151,7911,14957,000†Body structure (409)8
20162,4511,50149,000†Body structure (585)14
20171,69185050,000†Body structure (656)13
201873129050,000†Body structure (288)7
201929611653,000†Body structure (150)6

† At least 40% of this year’s complaints were filed after 2020, and most complaints filed since then carry no odometer reading. Its median rests on the earlier reports and likely understates the mileage these failures happen at.

What Explorer owners reported

The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, upon taking the vehicle to a local dealer, no failures were found, and the VIN was removed from the recall. Upon further inspection, the contact became aware that the front driver’s side…

2019 · 73,000 miles · Body structure

The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle jerked. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed torque converter. The contact was…

2018 · 107,000 miles · Transmission and driveline

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while inspecting the vehicle, the driver's side A-pillar trim unexpectedly detached. The contact stated that the B-pillar trim on the front passenger’s door unexpectedly detached. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000…

2016 · 58,000 miles · Body structure

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the rear-view camera became inoperable. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was occasionally blurry or displayed a reversed image. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over…

2015 · 153,000 miles · Reversing camera and sensors

Built from 7,896 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-09-26 · open data · how it is built

Other Explorer generations

Other midsize SUVs from the same years