Vehicle Recall IndexVIN decoding & NHTSA recall records

Model year 2021 · Ford

2021 Ford Explorer recalls

NHTSA's recall file lists 27 safety recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford Explorer. The most recent was reported on July 14, 2026. Campaigns are matched by the model names in NHTSA's records: EXPLORER, EXPLORER HYBRID, EXPLORER PHEV.

NHTSA data through October 6, 2026 · How these pages are built

Campaigns at a glance

Recall campaigns for the 2021 Ford Explorer, newest first
NHTSA numberReportedComponent
26V451000July 14, 2026Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly
26V402000June 24, 2026Power Train › Automatic Transmission
26V159000March 17, 2026Seat Belts
26V123000March 3, 2026Back Over Prevention › Software
26V117000March 3, 2026Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor
25V685000October 10, 2025Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater
25V455000July 7, 2025Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
25V442000June 27, 2025Back Over Prevention › Software
25V393000June 13, 2025Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly
25V166000March 14, 2025Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft
25V159000March 14, 2025Back Over Prevention › Software
25V093000February 14, 2025Seat Belts
24V852000November 8, 2024Equipment › Other › Labels
24V635000August 23, 2024Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical
24V598000August 9, 2024Engine
23V675000October 6, 2023Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft
23V626000September 8, 2023Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery
23V342000May 12, 2023Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
23V305000April 28, 2023Back Over Prevention › Display Function
23V199000March 24, 2023Parking Brake › Electrical
23V069000February 10, 2023Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/PCM/Tecm)
23V022000January 23, 2023Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
22V255000April 14, 2022Power Train › Axle Assembly
21V870000November 10, 2021Suspension › Rear
21V735000September 22, 2021Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
21V652000August 23, 2021Air Bags › Critical Fasteners
20V788000December 17, 2020Engine

Systems involved: Back Over Prevention (7) · Power Train (6) · Engine (2) · Equipment (2) · Seat Belts (2) · Seats (2) · Air Bags (1) · Electrical System (1) · Engine And Engine Cooling (1) · Fuel System, Gasoline (1) · Parking Brake (1) · Suspension (1) · Visibility (1)

Recall records

NHTSA 26V451000Manufacturer no. 26S52

Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly

Report received by NHTSA
July 14, 2026
Owner notification
August 21, 2026
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
387,911 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.

Source: NHTSA recall 26V451000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 26V402000Manufacturer no. 26S48

Power Train › Automatic Transmission

Report received by NHTSA
June 24, 2026
Owner notification
Not yet in the record
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
741,195 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
Not reported – November 9, 2021
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.

Safety risk

Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.

Source: NHTSA recall 26V402000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 26V159000Manufacturer no. 26C18

Seat Belts

Report received by NHTSA
March 17, 2026
Owner notification
March 30, 2026
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
561 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Source: NHTSA recall 26V159000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 26V123000Manufacturer no. 26C11

Back Over Prevention › Software

Report received by NHTSA
March 3, 2026
Owner notification
June 23, 2026
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
889,950 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Source: NHTSA recall 26V123000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 26V117000Manufacturer no. 26S14

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor

Report received by NHTSA
March 3, 2026
Owner notification
Not yet in the record
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
604,533 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.

Safety risk

Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 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 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.

Source: NHTSA recall 26V117000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V685000Manufacturer no. 25SA4

Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater

Report received by NHTSA
October 10, 2025
Owner notification
Not yet in the record
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
59,006 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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 and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated September 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

Source: NHTSA recall 25V685000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V455000Manufacturer no. 25S75

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump

Report received by NHTSA
July 7, 2025
Owner notification
July 27, 2026
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation
Units potentially affected
850,318 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
July 1, 2021 – Not reported
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.

Safety risk

An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.

Source: NHTSA recall 25V455000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V442000Manufacturer no. 25S72

Back Over Prevention › Software

Report received by NHTSA
June 27, 2025
Owner notification
September 4, 2025
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation
Units potentially affected
200,237 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Source: NHTSA recall 25V442000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V393000Manufacturer no. 25S67

Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly

Report received by NHTSA
June 13, 2025
Owner notification
August 7, 2025
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation
Units potentially affected
304,662 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Source: NHTSA recall 25V393000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V166000Manufacturer no. 25S22

Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft

Report received by NHTSA
March 14, 2025
Owner notification
April 25, 2025
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
4,247 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Notes in the NHTSA record

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Source: NHTSA recall 25V166000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V159000Manufacturer no. 25S27

Back Over Prevention › Software

Report received by NHTSA
March 14, 2025
Owner notification
April 25, 2025
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
49,399 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Notes in the NHTSA record

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Source: NHTSA recall 25V159000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 25V093000Manufacturer no. 25S09

Seat Belts

Report received by NHTSA
February 14, 2025
Owner notification
June 5, 2025
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
240,510 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
October 19, 2018 – July 11, 2020
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Notes in the NHTSA record

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Source: NHTSA recall 25V093000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 24V852000Manufacturer no. 24C39

Equipment › Other › Labels

Report received by NHTSA
November 8, 2024
Owner notification
December 19, 2024
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
27,678 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
April 26, 2019 – August 27, 2024
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

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

Remedy

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

Notes in the NHTSA record

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 nhtsa.gov.

Source: NHTSA recall 24V852000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 24V635000Manufacturer no. 24S55

Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical

Report received by NHTSA
August 23, 2024
Owner notification
July 3, 2025
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation
Units potentially affected
90,736 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
June 7, 2021 – October 31, 2021
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

Safety risk

A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 24V635000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 24V598000Manufacturer no. 24S52

Engine

Report received by NHTSA
August 9, 2024
Owner notification
August 13, 2025
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
85,238 (whole campaign)
Build dates listed for the 2021 Ford Explorer
November 10, 2018 – August 1, 2022
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

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

Safety risk

An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S52.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 24V598000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V675000Manufacturer no. 23S55

Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft

Report received by NHTSA
October 6, 2023
Owner notification
January 19, 2024
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation
Units potentially affected
238,364 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.

Safety risk

A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S55.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V675000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V626000Manufacturer no. 23S53

Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery

Report received by NHTSA
September 8, 2023
Owner notification
April 8, 2024
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
2,954 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.

Safety risk

Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V626000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V342000Manufacturer no. 23S23

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera

Report received by NHTSA
May 12, 2023
Owner notification
November 10, 2023
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance
Units potentially affected
442,973 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V342000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V305000Manufacturer no. 23C14

Back Over Prevention › Display Function

Report received by NHTSA
April 28, 2023
Owner notification
July 27, 2023
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance
Units potentially affected
523 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 12.1-inch Integrated Computer Screen (ICS). When the Display On/Off Button is used to turn the display to "Off" prior to placing the vehicle in reverse, the backup camera rearview image will not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will update the ICS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C14.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V305000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V199000Manufacturer no. 23S16

Parking Brake › Electrical

Report received by NHTSA
March 24, 2023
Owner notification
May 31, 2023
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
674 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Components: Parking Brake › Electrical; Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/PCM/Tecm)

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.

Safety risk

Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V199000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V069000Manufacturer no. 23S05

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/PCM/Tecm)

Report received by NHTSA
February 10, 2023
Owner notification
March 28, 2023
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
3,674 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S05.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V069000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 23V022000Manufacturer no. 23S02

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera

Report received by NHTSA
January 23, 2023
Owner notification
February 13, 2023
Recall initiated by
NHTSA Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance
Units potentially affected
382,759 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 23V022000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 22V255000Manufacturer no. 22S27

Power Train › Axle Assembly

Report received by NHTSA
April 14, 2022
Owner notification
June 9, 2022
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
252,936 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER HYBRID, EXPLORER PHEV

Components: Power Train › Axle Assembly; Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, Explorer Police 3.3L, and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, and 3.0L ST GAS vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.

Safety risk

A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in 'Park' without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the bushing and axle cover, or update the electronic parking brake software. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022, and March 10, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S27.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 22V255000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 21V870000Manufacturer no. 21S47

Suspension › Rear

Report received by NHTSA
November 10, 2021
Owner notification
December 3, 2021
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
20 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Incorrect rear suspension module components may have been installed due to a labeling error.

Safety risk

A rear suspension module with incorrect components may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the rear suspension module, and replace any incorrect parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S47.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 21V870000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 21V735000Manufacturer no. 21S44

Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera

Report received by NHTSA
September 22, 2021
Owner notification
November 16, 2021
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
228,297 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Components: Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera; Back Over Prevention › Software

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Safety risk

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

Remedy

Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 21V735000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 21V652000Manufacturer no. 21C19

Air Bags › Critical Fasteners

Report received by NHTSA
August 23, 2021
Owner notification
September 10, 2021
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
592 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Components: Air Bags › Critical Fasteners; Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag attachment weld studs could detach during the deployment of the side air bag, resulting in an improper deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214, "Side Impact Protection".

Safety risk

Improper deployment of a side air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the side air bag assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C19.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 21V652000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

NHTSA 20V788000Manufacturer no. 20S72

Engine

Report received by NHTSA
December 17, 2020
Owner notification
February 3, 2021
Recall initiated by
Manufacturer
Units potentially affected
1,405 (whole campaign)
Model names in the NHTSA record
EXPLORER

Defect summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.

Safety risk

With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.

Notes in the NHTSA record

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.

Source: NHTSA recall 20V788000, filed by Ford Motor Company. View the campaign on NHTSA.gov

Records reproduce NHTSA's published text for each campaign. Last record date for this page: July 15, 2026.