Owner complaints
287NHTSA recordsUSED VEHICLE RESEARCH
2019 Ford Explorer
Is This A Good Car? organizes available NHTSA-derived research for the 2019 Ford Explorer. This page includes owner complaint records, safety recall campaigns, manufacturer communications, defect investigations, and information about the completeness of the available evidence.
DATA CONFIDENCE: ModerateIs This A Good Car?
Ford Explorer2019 · VERIFIED IMAGE PENDING
Recall campaigns
6Year, make and model lookupManufacturer communications
134Matched NHTSA recordsInvestigations
1Matched NHTSA recordsEVIDENCE AVAILABILITY — NOT VEHICLE RELIABILITY
DATA CONFIDENCE
ModerateData Confidence measures how much usable evidence CarIQ has for this vehicle. It does not measure how reliable the vehicle is.
Why this rating?
- Owner complaint data
- Available
- Manufacturer communications
- Available
- Recall data
- Available
- Investigation data
- Available
- Production denominator
- Unavailable
- Complaint component completeness
- 100%
- Mileage completeness
- 0%
- Incident-date completeness
- 100%
DESCRIPTIVE ANALYTICS
DATA INSIGHTS
Derived from official NHTSA source records. These statistics are descriptive and are not a reliability score.
- Complaint records analyzed
- 287 NHTSA complaints
- Most reported component
- Structure 51% of categorized complaint records
- Top-three component concentration
- 76% Records mentioning at least one top-three component
- Median reported incident mileage
- Not available from current source 0 valid mileage observations
- Recall campaigns
- 6 NHTSA recalls
- Most recent recall report
- July 14, 2026 NHTSA recalls
- Manufacturer communications
- 134 NHTSA manufacturer communications
- Most documented component
- Electrical System 37% of categorized communications
- Top-three communication concentration
- 60% Share of categorized manufacturer communications
SOURCE COMPLETENESS
DATA QUALITY
- Complaint records analyzed
- 287
- Component classification available
- 100%
- Incident date available
- 100%
- Mileage available
- 0%
- Structured outcome fields available
- 100%
Completeness describes fields present in the retrieved complaint records. It is not a data-quality grade or a vehicle assessment.
Learn about CarIQ methodologyPRODUCTION-ADJUSTED DESCRIPTIVE METRIC
NORMALIZED COMPLAINT CONTEXT
Production-normalized complaint data is not currently available for this vehicle.
This metric compares the number of NHTSA owner complaint records retrieved by CarIQ with NHTSA-reported production volume for the corresponding vehicle population.
It is not a vehicle failure rate. Complaint reporting behavior, vehicle age, time on the road, production definitions, and other factors can affect the result.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Early Warning Reporting, Light Vehicle Production Data. Read the methodology.
OFFICIAL NHTSA OWNER COMPLAINT DATA
OWNER-REPORTED COMPLAINTS
TOTAL COMPLAINTS287
COMPONENT CATEGORIES
Structure146 complaints
51%of categorized complaint records
Unknown or Other44 complaints
15%of categorized complaint records
Power Train34 complaints
12%of categorized complaint records
Electrical System19 complaints
7%of categorized complaint records
Engine18 complaints
6%of categorized complaint records
Fuel/propulsion System14 complaints
5%of categorized complaint records
Suspension10 complaints
3%of categorized complaint records
Steering9 complaints
3%of categorized complaint records
Engine and Engine Cooling6 complaints
2%of categorized complaint records
Service Brakes4 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Visibility4 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Wheels4 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Fuel System3 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Gasoline3 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Seats3 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Visibility/wiper3 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Air Bags2 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Forward Collision Avoidance2 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Hydraulic2 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Tires2 complaints
1%of categorized complaint records
Back Over Prevention1 complaint
0%of categorized complaint records
Seat Belts1 complaint
0%of categorized complaint records
A complaint may list more than one component and therefore contribute to multiple categories. Percentages show the share of categorized complaint records that mention each component—not the percentage of vehicles affected. Category percentages may overlap.
INCIDENT REPORTS BY YEAR
2013
1
2019
19
2020
15
2021
19
2022
25
2023
39
2024
92
2025
51
2026
26
Grouped from complaint records with a valid incident date.
RECENT OWNER COMPLAINTS
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11751972Read complaint narrative
Passenger side exterior B pillar trim came off while driving on highway on July 3, 2026. Trim was on vehicle when it left home. It was not on it when it arrived at destination. Possible danger to other drivers from flying trim component. No inspection or any symptoms of the problem prior to failure. Same problem as recall on 2016-2017 models.
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11750801Read complaint narrative
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the exterior A-pillar trim had detached from the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11750641Read complaint narrative
Component/System: Aluminum hood panel (front edge seam). The hood is available for inspection upon request. The front edge of the aluminum hood on my 2019 Ford Explorer has developed bubbling, lifting paint, and corrosion originating from inside the folded seam. The defect has progressively worsened over time and continues to spread outward. Safety Risk: The corrosion is occurring at the front hood seam, which is part of the structure that supports the hood latch area. Progressive corrosion in this region may weaken the hood panel over time, potentially affecting hood retention at highway speeds. Paint loss and metal degradation also reduce visibility of the defect until it becomes severe. Reproduction/Confirmation: The problem is visible and reproducible at any time. The bubbling and corrosion are present continuously and worsen with normal vehicle use. Inspection History: The issue has been visually inspected by me. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, dealer, police, or insurance representatives. Warning Lamps or Messages: No warning lamps or messages appeared. There were no electronic symptoms prior to the failure. The first visible symptom was small paint bubbles along the front hood edge, which appeared approximately when the corrosion began. Assessment: Based on widespread reports for this model year and Ford’s own Technical Service Bulletins for aluminum panel corrosion, the cause appears to be corrosion originating inside the aluminum hood seam, likely due to manufacturing contamination.
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11750268Read complaint narrative
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the leather on the dashboard was peeling and had detached. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Steering · Suspension
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11750269Read complaint narrative
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH, the steering wheel was abnormally loose, and the vehicle became uncontrollable. The contact stated that the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road, and the brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard. The brake pedal was depressed several times, and the vehicle stopped. No warning lights were illuminated. A driver nearby assisted with stopping traffic to allow the contact to drive the vehicle off to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was inspected, and the other driver became aware that the rear tires were completely bald. The vehicle was taken to Discount Tires, and the contact was informed that the failure was because of the rear suspension. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V101000 (Suspension) in March 24, 2026. In addition, the contact was informed that an alignment was not performed because the alignment machine was unavailable. The contact had not been informed that the recall repair was completed. The dealer informed the contact that an alignment had been completed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,419.
Fuel/propulsion System
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11749645Read complaint narrative
Fuel pump and module failure. Driving on the highway at 70 miles an hour and the fuel pump failed. Causing me to have zero acceleration. Thus losing speed rapidly in the center lane. No warning lights were present before or after. One previous symptom of a crank no start. Dealership was able to replicate the crank no start situation. Resulting in the problem being a fuel pump failure and module needing replaced, at 83,000 miles on the vehicle. Though I know normal wear and tear can and does happen, there was no warning. And losing engine power at high speeds on a highway is unsafe.
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11742448Read complaint narrative
This recall has been unresolved for approximately two years. Recently, while traveling at highway speeds, the A-pillar trim detached from my vehicle and flew off, striking a vehicle behind me. Fortunately, no accident occurred, but the situation was extremely dangerous and could have resulted in serious injuries or property damage. This is precisely the type of incident the recall was intended to prevent. I have reached out to my local dealership numerous times and am told that Ford has no parts available. This is not acceptable and Ford is not handling this recall in a timely fashion.
Structure
Owner-submitted NHTSA complaint · ODI 11741521Read complaint narrative
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving, Panel on the driver side door, keyless pad became completely detached. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed as not being fully secured and was replaced. The panel blew the fuses and affected the liftgate on the vehicle and additional repairs, latch replacement on the liftgate had to be completed. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate failure mileage 47,000.
NHTSA complaints are reports submitted by vehicle owners and other consumers. Complaint counts do not represent the percentage of vehicles affected and do not by themselves establish that a safety defect exists.
A higher complaint count can partly reflect how many vehicles were sold, vehicle age, and other factors. CarIQ does not yet normalize complaint counts by vehicles sold.
Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This site is not endorsed by NHTSA.
OFFICIAL NHTSA MANUFACTURER COMMUNICATION DATA
MANUFACTURER COMMUNICATIONS
TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS134
DOCUMENTED COMPONENTS
Electrical System49 communication records
37%OF CATEGORIZED
Equipment22 communication records
16%OF CATEGORIZED
Power Train17 communication records
13%OF CATEGORIZED
Engine and Engine Cooling13 communication records
10%OF CATEGORIZED
Seats12 communication records
9%OF CATEGORIZED
Unknown or Other9 communication records
7%OF CATEGORIZED
Equipment Adaptive/mobility7 communication records
5%OF CATEGORIZED
Electrical System:software6 communication records
4%OF CATEGORIZED
Shares use communications with an NHTSA component classification. One communication may identify multiple components.
RECENT MANUFACTURER COMMUNICATIONS
Unknown or Other · Electrical System
25E10-S1NEW VEHICLE DELIVERY HOLD - Emissions Recall 25E10 - Supplement #1 Certain 2018-2020 Model Year F-150 Vehicles With 3.3L Engines and 2016-2019 Model Year Explorer, Taurus, and Flex Vehicles With 3.5L Engines Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reprogramming
View NHTSA documentEngine
25B51Certain 2021-2024 Model Year Bronco, 2021-2024 Model Year Bronco Sport, 2020-2022 Model Year Corsair and Escape, 2016-2024 Model Year Explorer, 2019-2020 Model Year Fusion, 2016-2018 Model Year Focus RS, 2022-2024 Model Year Maverick, 2016-2019 Model Year MKC and 2019-2024 Model Year Ranger Vehicles Equipped with a 2.0L or 2.3L Engine and Engine Block Heater System Block Heater Replacement
View NHTSA documentUnknown or Other · Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection · Back Over Prevention: Warnings · Back Over Prevention: Rearview System Braking
25N17Advance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation
View NHTSA documentElectrical System · Structure:body · Unknown or Other
SSM 54601Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how to retrieve the master code. This guide is located under the Workshop Manual tab > Accessories > Installation > Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide > PPT C > Step C2.<br /><br /> Note: The only available keypad for some vehicles from the assembly plant is the accessory wireless keyless entry keypad. The integrated wired keypad cannot be installed on vehicles not equipped from the factory with a wired keyless entry k
View NHTSA documentElectrical System
TSB 25-2570This article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to: Display operation concerns Navigation inoperative Voice recognition concerns Phone connection issues Dropped phone connections Applink related performance Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic Slow system response NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software. The SYNC 3 universal thumb drive will be able to update the APIM software without the use of a scan tool and does not require the process to be monitored. Ford will be monitoring APIM replacements to confirm TSB directed software updates have been performed.
View NHTSA documentElectrical System · Power Train
SSM 54366Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern.
View NHTSA documentUnknown or Other
TSB 25-2005"Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: • Customer concern of a vibration or rough idle in D or R • Shudder while driving • Lack of engine RPM • Low performance, lack of acceleration on take off"
View NHTSA documentUnknown or Other
SSM 53040While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.
View NHTSA documentUnknown or Other
TSB 24-2165This article supersedes TSB 21-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. related concerns including but not limited to: Display operation concerns Navigation inoperative Voice recognition concerns Phone connection issues Dropped phone connections Applink related performance Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic Slow system response This may be due to the SYNC software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software. NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software.
View NHTSA documentUnknown or Other
SSM 52483Some 2018-2019 Explorer and 2018-2024 Transit/F-150/Expedition/Navigator vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). Diagnosis should include checking for an intermittent or partial disconnect of the harness to the fuel pump control module (FPCM) connector, connector pin push-outs, damaged pins/terminals, or loose/corroded grounds. Confirm FPCM connector (Explorer - C3239, Transit - C433, F-150 - C460/C4336, Expedition/Navigator - C433/C4033) is fully seated and inspect applicable grounds (Explorer G302, Transit - G401, F-150 - G401, Expedition/Navigator - G403/G406) prior to performing guided diagnostics or replacing any components.
View NHTSA documentEquipment
SSM 52476All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery. Unlike the integrated (wired) factory keypad, the accessory keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is lost, follow these steps to recover the code. Dealer Key Code access is granted through the Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES); dealership management can authorize users. The authorized user must go to FMCDealer.com > Parts and Service > Parts Product Line Information > Keys/Entry Devices > Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Follow the instructions on the screen to obtain the master code for the accessory keypad.
View NHTSA documentEngine and Engine Cooling
SSM 52335For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.
View NHTSA documentManufacturer communications include service bulletins and other technical information submitted by manufacturers to NHTSA. The existence or number of communications does not establish how often a condition occurs or whether an individual vehicle will experience it.
Some manufacturers may issue more detailed service documentation than others, so communication counts should not be used alone to compare vehicle reliability.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration manufacturer communicationsNATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION
NHTSA DEFECT INVESTIGATIONS
TOTAL INVESTIGATION RECORDS1
- Open investigations
- 0
- Closed investigations
- 1
- Applicability match
- range
Preliminary Evaluation
Windshield trim molding Item detachment
- Status
- closed
- Component
- Structure:body:roof and Pillars
- Opened
- Jan 27, 2023
- Closed
- Feb 8, 2024
Read NHTSA summary
On January 27, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-001 to investigate allegations of A-pillar trim panel detachment on model year (MY) 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles. At the time of opening, the office had received 164 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting this failure. ODI has received 671 VOQs regarding this failure, including 1 alleged crash and 2 alleged injuries. Some consumers have reported that the failure occurred while they were driving at highway speeds, with the detached trim panel entering the path of travel of the vehicle behind them, requiring the driver of the following vehicle to take evasive action. It is noteworthy that motorists who experience this type of road hazard are less likely to accurately identify the subject vehicle the item detached from and report the event to the NHTSA. In its April 17, 2023 response to ODI’s information request, Ford provided 175 consumer complaints (including field reports) and 14,162 warranty claims related to A-pillar trim panel detachment. Ford relayed that the subject vehicles utilize a plastic A-pillar bracket, which is bolted to the vehicle structure during assembly. The A-pillar trim panel is attached to the bracket utilizing 7 plastic clips. Contributory factors which have been identified by Ford as leading to the subject defect include incomplete installation at the assembly plant, inadequate part stack up, damage to fasteners during installation, and failure to follow proper repair procedure during windshield replacements or other services. On January 19, 2024, Ford filed safety recall 24V-031 for MY 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles to address the subject defect. In the Part 573 Safety Recall Report, Ford identified that a detached A-pillar trim panel can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash. The recall remedy includes an inspection of the existing A-pillar trim panel and, if necessary, the replacement of the component. The remedy A-pillar trim panels will be installed with an additional adhesive for robustness and utilize an inspection procedure to ensure full engagement of all the retention clips during installation. In view of the recall action being taken by Ford, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
NHTSA investigations evaluate potential motor-vehicle safety defects. The existence of an investigation does not by itself establish that a safety defect exists, and the absence of an investigation does not establish that a vehicle is problem-free.
Open and closed describe NHTSA's process status, not a CarIQ reliability judgment.
View official NHTSA investigation data ↗DESCRIPTIVE SOURCE OVERLAP
CROSS-SOURCE VEHICLE DATA
CarIQ compares categories appearing across independent NHTSA datasets. Overlap can help identify areas with more available documentation, but it does not establish defect frequency or prove that an individual vehicle will experience a problem.
| Component | Owner complaints | Manufacturer communications | Recall campaigns | NHTSA investigations | Official sources containing records |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structure:body:roof and Pillars | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3 of 4 |
| Structure | 146 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Unknown or Other | 44 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Power Train | 34 | 17 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Electrical System | 19 | 49 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Engine | 18 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Steering | 9 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 6 | 13 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Visibility | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Wheels | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 of 4 |
Displayed first by the number of source categories containing the component, then by owner complaint count, then alphabetically. This is a presentation rule, not a vehicle ranking. Complaint reports, manufacturer communications, recalls, and investigations describe different events and are never added into a combined total.
- complaint
- Available
- communication
- Available
- recall
- Available
- investigation
- Available
- production
- Unavailable
OFFICIAL NHTSA SAFETY RECALL DATA
SAFETY RECALLS
6 recall campaigns found
01STRUCTURE:BODYCampaign 26V448000July 14, 2026
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle.
Safety Consequence
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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, are expected to be mailed August 24, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S54. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
02SUSPENSION:REARCampaign 26V101000February 20, 2026
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture.
Safety Consequence
A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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 is 26S08. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 21V537. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 25, 2026.
03EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATERCampaign 26V012000January 15, 2026
Summary
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.
Safety Consequence
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 February 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in October 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. This recall expands previous recall number 25V685.
04STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARSCampaign 24V031000January 19, 2024
Summary
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.
Safety Consequence
A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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 notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
05STRUCTURE:BODYCampaign 21V316000May 5, 2021
Summary
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.
Safety Consequence
A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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 notification letters (remedy available) were mailed on October 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S22.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
06SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINERCampaign 19V633000August 28, 2019
Summary
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 front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Safety Consequence
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.
Remedy
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 customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Recall results shown here are based on year, make, and model. A specific vehicle may or may not be affected. Check the vehicle's VIN with NHTSA to confirm open recalls before purchasing. Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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