Recall homework
There are 24 official recalls listed for this model year. Before buying, use the VIN to confirm which campaigns are still open and ask for dealer repair records on completed work.
Vehicle report
2021 Ford Explorer
Recalls, consumer complaints, safety ratings, fuel cost estimate, and next steps from official public data sources.
24 Total recalls
Mar 17, 2026 Latest recall date
382 Complaint reports
$2,385 Estimated fuel cost
Buyer interpretation
What this record means before you buy
The useful question is not just whether this page has records. It is what those records should make you verify before money changes hands.
Owner complaint pattern
Owner complaints most often mention power train, unknown or other, back over prevention. Scan those categories before the test drive so you know what symptoms, warning lights, or service history to ask about.
Service bulletin signal
314 manufacturer communications are listed. These are not recalls, but they can reveal repair instructions, warranty extensions, software notices, or known service patterns.
Ownership-cost check
The fuel-cost estimate is based on a representative EPA match, not every trim. Confirm the actual engine, drivetrain, and tire setup before comparing this listing with another year or model.
Questions to ask the seller
- Can you show the current VIN recall status for this 2021 Ford Explorer?
- Do you have dealer invoices or campaign paperwork for the listed recall repairs?
- Have you noticed any issues related to power train, unknown or other, back over prevention?
- Can I review recent maintenance records before the test drive?
Used-car checklist
Thinking of buying this vehicle?
Use our buyer checklist to know what to inspect, ask, and verify before the test drive.
2021 Ford Explorer Regular Gasoline
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Safety ratings
Official safety ratings were found for 2 tested variants of the 2021 Ford Explorer.
Safety ratings can vary by tested body style, trim, drivetrain,
or variant. Do not assume every trim has the same rating unless
the official record says so.
| Variant | Overall | Front | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Ford Explorer SUV RWD Default | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| 2021 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
How many recalls does the 2021 Ford Explorer have?
Verify with official VIN lookup24 official recalls on record for the 2021 Ford Explorer. 121 matched quarterly completion reports are available.
Latest recall: March 17, 2026
Recall data is based on official records. This page is not an official VIN
recall check. Always confirm open recalls with an official VIN lookup, the
manufacturer, or an authorized dealer.
Completion reports are campaign-level, delayed, and not VIN-specific.
| Campaign | Component | Summary | Consequence | Remedy | Date | Completion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26V159000 | SEAT BELTS | 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. | A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. | 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. | Mar 2026 | 2026-1 |
| 26V123000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE | 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." | An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. | The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 6, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated second quarter of 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. | Mar 2026 | |
| 26V117000 | VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR | 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. | Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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 May 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. | Mar 2026 | |
| 25V685000 | EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER | 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. | An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire. | 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. | Oct 2025 | |
| 25V455000 | FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP | 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. | An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. | The remedy is under development. Interim notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 16, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated 2nd Quarter 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75. | Jul 2025 | |
| 25V442000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE | 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. | 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. | 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. | Jun 2025 | 2026-1 |
| 25V393000 | SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY | 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. | A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury. | 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. | Jun 2025 | 2026-1 |
| 25V159000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE | 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. | Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | Mar 2025 | 2026-1 |
| 25V166000 | POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT | 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. | 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. | 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. | Mar 2025 | 2026-1 |
| 25V093000 | SEAT BELTS | 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. | A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. | 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. | Feb 2025 | 2026-1 |
| 24V852000 | EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS | 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." | 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. | 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. | Nov 2024 | 2026-1 |
| 24V635000 | ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL | 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. | A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. | 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. | Aug 2024 | 2026-1 |
| 24V598000 | ENGINE | 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. | An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury. | 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. | Aug 2024 | 2026-1 |
| 23V675000 | POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT | 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. | 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. | 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. | Oct 2023 | 2026-1 |
| 23V626000 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY | 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. | 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. | 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. | Sep 2023 | 2026-1 |
| 23V342000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA | 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. | Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | May 2023 | 2025-3 |
| 23V305000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION | 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." | A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. | 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. | Apr 2023 | 2026-1 |
| 23V199000 | POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) | 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. | 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. | 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. | Mar 2023 | 2025-1 |
| 23V069000 | POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) | 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. | A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash. | 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. | Feb 2023 | 2024-4 |
| 23V022000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA | 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. | Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | Jan 2023 | 2023-3 |
| 21V870000 | SUSPENSION:REAR | 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. | A rear suspension module with incorrect components may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | Nov 2021 | 2023-3 |
| 21V735000 | BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE | 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. | A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash. | 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. | Sep 2021 | 2023-3 |
| 21V652000 | AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN | 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". | Improper deployment of a side air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash. | 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. | Aug 2021 | 2024-1 |
| 20V788000 | ENGINE | 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. | 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. | 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. | Dec 2020 | 2022-4 |
Are there federal defect investigations for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
Official records show 7 federal defect investigations matched to the 2021 Ford Explorer.
0 open 7
closed
Investigations are not recalls. They show official defect reviews
and may close without a recall, or may reference a related
campaign when one exists.
| Action | Status | Component | Subject | Opened | Related recall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EA23002 | Closed | ENGINE | Loss of Motive Power | Sep 2023 | 24V635 |
| RQ23002 | Closed | POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY | Rear Axle Bolt Failure | Jun 2023 | 23V675 |
| RQ23002 | Closed | POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT | Rear Axle Bolt Failure | Jun 2023 | 23V675 |
| DP22005 | Closed | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM | Pedestrian alert sounds | Jan 2023 | 22V063000 |
| DP22005 | Closed | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM | Pedestrian alert sounds | Jan 2023 | 22V063000 |
| DP22005 | Closed | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM | Pedestrian alert sounds | Jan 2023 | 22V063000 |
| DP22005 | Closed | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM | Pedestrian alert sounds | Jan 2023 | 22V063000 |
Are there manufacturer notices for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
Official records show 314 manufacturer communications on record for the 2021 Ford Explorer.
0 warranty 0 service campaigns 0 software/OTA
Manufacturer communications are not recalls. They can include
service bulletins, repair instructions, warranty extensions,
software updates, service campaigns, and other notices.
| Date | Type | Component | Summary | ID / document |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 2020-2026 Explorer/Escape/Corsair, 2021-2026 Bronco Sport/Bronco, 2022-2026 Maverick, 2024-2026 Mustang/Ranger/Nautilus vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 2.3L EcoBoost engine may require removal of the turbocharger wastegate control actuator linkage for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-04 Fuel Charging and Controls - Turbocharger - 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost > Removal and Installation > Wastegate Control Actuator Linkage service procedure been added. In addition, the wastegate actuator rod (9E408), associated retention springs (9342) and retaining clips (00817) have been released as lower-level components to complete the repair without replacing the entire turbocharger wastegate actuator assembly. | 11032924 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | SUSPENSION | This bulletin supersedes 25-2213. Reason for update: update the Service Procedure to add notes to clarify the customer symptoms, applicability of this TSB, directing technicians to evaluate both front strut mounts, and add Figure 1 to identify the specific area of the strut mount to observe. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit a click/pop noise while turning the steering wheel from straight ahead to full lock during low speed turning events. This noise may be due to the front upper strut mount washer movement under steering loads. | 11032909 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | POWER TRAIN | Some 2020-2026 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility/Aviator vehicles may require replacement of the front drive halfshaft inner/outer CV joint boot for various reasons. If Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 205-04 > Diagnosis and Testing leads to CV joint boot replacement, L1MZ-3A331-G (Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility front inner/outer CV joint boot kit), L1MZ-3A331-H (Aviator front inner/outer CV joint boot kit), L1MZ-3A331-F (Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility front inner CV joint boot kit) and L1MZ-3A331-E (Aviator front inner CV joint boot kit) have been released for service. Refer to WSM, Section 205-04 for Removal and Installation procedures. | 11032760 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | POWER TRAIN | This bulletin supersedes 26-2046. Reason For Update: update the parts list to change the claim quantity of the C clutch friction plates (HL3Z-7B164-A), C clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-F), D clutch steel plates (HL3Z-7B442-D), add the rear driveshaft flange CV joint-to-pinion flange cup bolts and retaining straps (LK4Z-4B496-B) for Transit, and update the parts description for the transfer case fluids applicable for each vehicle line. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit all of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit | 11032697 |
| May 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | POWER TRAIN | Some 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). The vehicle may be unable to enter electric-only drive modes as expected during normal drive cycles. This may be due to the software within the belt integrated starter generator (BISG). For vehicles with this condition, follow Pinpoint Test I: Battery Isolation/Voltage Stabilization Control Circuit Carry Outance located in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-06D and repair the vehicle as necessary. Note that the BISG is on backorder status at the time of this publication and Ford is working to make parts available. Engineering is investigating this concern. Monitor PTS for updates. | 11032565 |
| Apr 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | UNKNOWN OR OTHER | Some 2020-2024 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility hybrid vehicles may exhibit a "Refuel Error See Manual" message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) after installing a replacement fuel filler door assembly (7827936). This may be due to a concern with the replacement fuel filler door assembly. If diagnostics in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-14 Body > Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems > lead to fuel filler door switch replacement, install a new fuel filler door assembly ordered from depot stock to correct this condition. Suspect parts have been cleared from parts depot inventory. | 11032252 |
| Apr 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | POWER TRAIN | Some 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L PowerBoost engine and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0A1E stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). The vehicle may be unable to enter electric-only drive modes as expected during normal drive cycles. This may be due to the software within the belt integrated starter generator (BISG). For vehicles with this condition, follow Pinpoint Test G located in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-06D and repair the vehicle as necessary. Note that the BISG is on backorder status at the time of this publication and Ford is working to make parts available. Engineering is investigating this concern. Monitor PTS for updates. | 11031640 |
| Apr 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ENGINE | 2021-2026 Explorer vehicles equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine may require air conditioning (A/C) compressor belt removal for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-05A Accessory Drive - 2.3L EcoBoost > Removal and Installation > Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Belt procedure has been revised to eliminate cutting the A/C compressor belt to remove it. Refer to the updated procedure to reuse the belt. | 11031411 |
| Apr 2026 | Other | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | Customer Satisfaction Program 23B64 Certain 2020-2024 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Equipped with High Voltage Batteries Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) Software Update | 11031780 |
| Apr 2026 | Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | Various 2020-2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). This may also be accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B118C:11 and/or B118C:15 stored in the driver door module (DDM), and/or B118D:11 and/or B118D:15 stored in the passenger door module (PDM). This may be due to the wiring connector from the mirror to the BLIS module. If diagnostics lead to an internal mirror wiring harness fault, a new lower level BLIS light pigtail is now released for service. It is not necessary to replace the exterior mirror assembly. Use part number SC3Z-14A411-B to resolve the concern. | 11031263 |
What are the most common 2021 Ford Explorer complaints?
POWER TRAIN 74
UNKNOWN OR OTHER 52
BACK OVER PREVENTION 23
ENGINE 20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 17
STRUCTURE 14
VISIBILITY/WIPER 14
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING 9
SEATS 9
VISIBILITY 9
382 total complaints on record
How much does the 2021 Ford Explorer cost in fuel?
Estimated annual cost $2,385 $199/month at 12,000 miles/year
Effective efficiency 22.6 MPG
Energy used 530 gal/yr
Price assumption $4.50 $/gal
Assumptions: 20 city / 27 highway / 23 combined MPG · Regular Gasoline · efficiency ratings from official public data when available · fuel price default: official public data (U.S. average, Jun 3, 2026)
386 g/mi CO2Fuel score 5/10Smog 5/10