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Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

2021 Ford Explorer — Known Issues & Recalls

24 Recalls365 Owner Complaints15 Categories Affected
365
Total Complaints
24
Open Recalls
13
Crashes
5
Fires
13
Injuries

Complaints from Jan 2024 to Dec 2025

The most reported issue is power train problems (73 complaints). 13 complaints involved crashes. 5 involved fires.

Open Safety Recalls (24)

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Oct 2021

NHTSA Campaign: 21V870000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 20V788000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 21V735000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 21V652000

Component: 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".

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 23V022000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Oct 2023

NHTSA Campaign: 23V069000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 23V199000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 23V305000

Component: 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."

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Dec 2023

NHTSA Campaign: 23V342000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Aug 2023

NHTSA Campaign: 23V626000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Jun 2023

NHTSA Campaign: 23V675000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Oct 2024

NHTSA Campaign: 24V598000

Component: 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.

Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 24V635000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Aug 2024

NHTSA Campaign: 24V852000

Component: 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."

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 25V093000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 25V159000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 25V166000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 25V393000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 25V442000

Component: 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.

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.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Jul 2025

NHTSA Campaign: 25V455000

Component: 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.

Risk: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Oct 2025

NHTSA Campaign: 25V685000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Mar 2026

NHTSA Campaign: 26V117000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed March 9, 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Mar 2026

NHTSA Campaign: 26V123000

Component: 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."

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

Fix: The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed April 17, 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.

Safety RecallFREE FIX AT DEALER
Invalid Date

NHTSA Campaign: 26V159000

Component: 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.

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

Fix: 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.

Owner-Reported Issues (20 of 365)

Electrical System2 issues
criticalELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Filed: Apr 2026

Your car's electrical system isn't allowing the engine to start, and it's also locking you out of the vehicle so you can't diagnose or repair the issue. This is dangerous because the engine has shut off unexpectedly while driving, which could cause an accident on busy roads. The problem likely involves a faulty battery, starter, or electrical control module that needs to be diagnosed and replaced.

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NHTSA #: 11728602
criticalELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FireFiled: Mar 2026

Your 2021 Ford Explorer has a serious electrical problem that started with a burning metal smell and high idle in 2022, which the dealer dismissed. The issue has worsened significantly — your vehicle now experiences sudden complete power loss (black screen, no-start condition, and rapid battery drain within days), which can disable power steering and brakes while driving. You've also reported a burning smell that suggests a potential fire risk. Fixing this will likely require the dealer to identify and repair the underlying electrical short circuit, possibly involving battery replacement, wiring harness inspection, or APIM module replacement.

NHTSA #: 11728030
Power Train2 issues
criticalPOWER TRAIN
Filed: Feb 2026

Your transmission's clutch has failed, which means your 2021 Ford Explorer needs a complete transmission replacement. This is a major mechanical failure that will prevent your vehicle from operating properly. The repair will require removing and replacing the entire transmission assembly.

NHTSA #: 11718529
highPOWER TRAIN
Filed: Mar 2026

Your 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid's rear axle has repeatedly failed even after Ford's recall repair, which included replacing the rear axle bolt and seals. Despite multiple repair attempts and transmission realignment, your vehicle continues to experience driveline instability, leaking seals, and symptoms that feel like transmission slipping. This issue may require a more comprehensive diagnostic or replacement of the rear axle assembly or transmission components.

NHTSA #: 11726262
Unknown Or Other2 issues
criticalUNKNOWN OR OTHER
Filed: Feb 2026

Your driver's side door latch isn't working properly—it either won't stay latched or won't latch at all. This is a safety hazard since the door could open while driving. The owner reports knowing other Ford owners with the same issue on 2021+ vehicles. The fix will likely involve inspecting and replacing the door latch mechanism.

NHTSA #: 11715019
mediumUNKNOWN OR OTHER
Filed: Feb 2026

Your sunroof shade cover has come loose from its rollers and is sagging, which can block your view while driving. This happens because the cover is no longer properly attached to the track system. The fix will likely involve reattaching or replacing the shade cover and its roller components.

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NHTSA #: 11716438
Suspension,power Train2 issues
highSUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
Filed: Feb 2026

Your Explorer's rear axle bolt sheared off, causing significant damage to the rear differential and other components, with metal shavings found inside. This failure happened without a crash and raises safety concerns, but Ford has declined to cover the repair costs. The fix will likely involve replacing the rear axle assembly, differential components, and any other parts damaged when the bolt failed.

NHTSA #: 11718811
highSUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
Filed: Feb 2026

After your 2021 Ford Explorer had a rear axle bolt recall completed at a Ford dealership, the same bolt fractured shortly after, causing loud noise from the rear end. Ford's customer service denied financial assistance for the repair, claiming it resulted from how the vehicle was used rather than a manufacturing defect, even though the recall was specifically for this bolt's tendency to fracture. The repair will likely involve replacing the rear axle bolt and inspecting the rear axle assembly for any additional damage from the bolt failure.

NHTSA #: 11715221
Visibility/wiper2 issues
mediumVISIBILITY/WIPER
Filed: Mar 2026

Your sunroof shade sags when you open the sunroof, which blocks your view in the rearview mirror. This can make it harder to see behind your vehicle safely. The shade may need adjustment or replacement to sit properly and not obstruct your rear visibility.

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NHTSA #: 11726292
mediumVISIBILITY/WIPER
Filed: Feb 2026

Your windshield has tiny specks trapped between the glass layers that reduce your visibility, especially when the sun shines on it. This doesn't affect the wipers themselves, but it makes it harder to see through the windshield.

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NHTSA #: 11717941
Structure,unknown Or Other1 issue
criticalSTRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Filed: Feb 2026

Your Explorer's rear subframe was improperly repaired during a recall service, leaving it loose with excessive movement that makes the vehicle unsafe to drive. You noticed a clicking noise when shifting gears, and a Ford dealer confirmed the recall work was done incorrectly. Both the dealership that performed the work and Ford have refused to cover the repair costs, leaving you responsible for a $3,500 bill. The fix will likely involve properly reinstalling and securing the rear subframe components.

NHTSA #: 11717765
Carry Handle, Shell, Base,chest Clip, Buckle, Harness,other/i Am Not Sure1 issue
highCarry Handle, Shell, Base,Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness,Other/I am not sure
Filed: Mar 2026

Your rear-facing child car seat's forward-facing belt path is trapping your child's arm. Once their arm is caught, it's difficult to free it without pulling over, and the child becomes extremely distressed. The seat manufacturer has not provided a solution for this design issue.

NHTSA #: 11727292
Power Train,vehicle Speed Control,forward Collision Avoidance1 issue
highPOWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Filed: Mar 2026

Your car is displaying frequent alerts about the powertrain system, which is preventing your cruise control from working. Multiple warning messages are appearing on your dashboard regularly. This will likely require a diagnostic scan of your vehicle's computer system and possibly software updates or sensor repairs.

NHTSA #: 11727025
Visibility1 issue
highVISIBILITY
Filed: Mar 2026

Your 2021 Ford Explorer's windshield wiper motor failed while you were driving in the rain at around 90,000 miles, leaving your wipers inoperable and affecting visibility. You received a recall notice (NHTSA Campaign 26V117000) for this issue, but the replacement part wasn't available at the time. The repair will likely involve replacing the windshield wiper motor assembly.

NHTSA #: 11726842
Fuel/propulsion System1 issue
highFUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Filed: Mar 2026

Your vehicle stalls unexpectedly while driving. After coasting to a stop and restarting with the start/stop button, it runs normally until the problem happens again—sometimes days or months apart. This has occurred about 6 times over 2 years. A fuel system inspection or fuel pump diagnostic test may be needed to identify the cause.

NHTSA #: 11725690
Suspension1 issue
highSUSPENSION
Filed: Mar 2026

While driving, you noticed rough downshifting and heard loud noises coming from the rear of your vehicle. A bolt on the rear axle differential snapped, causing you to lose power to the wheels. The snapped bolt will need to be replaced, and the differential should be inspected for additional damage.

NHTSA #: 11723738
Back Over Prevention1 issue
highBACK OVER PREVENTION
Filed: Feb 2026

Your parking collision sensors (the devices that detect objects behind your car when backing up) keep malfunctioning and have needed replacement 3 or 4 times in the past year. The dealership hasn't identified why they keep failing, just replaced them repeatedly. Since these sensors aren't working reliably, you risk hitting people or objects when backing up because you won't get proper warnings.

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NHTSA #: 11718657
Engine1 issue
highENGINE
Filed: Feb 2026

Your 2021 Ford Explorer is leaking engine oil from the engine area, losing about one drop per day. A Ford dealership confirmed the leak during service and identified it involves the intermediate shaft seals and possibly the engine oil pan, which are known issues covered by Ford technical bulletins. The oil leak creates a safety risk because oil could contact hot engine parts, reduce engine lubrication over time, or drip onto the road and reduce traction for other drivers. Ford has declined to repair the vehicle outside of warranty coverage. The fix will likely involve replacing or resealing the leaking components identified by the dealership.

NHTSA #: 11716265
Seats1 issue
mediumSEATS
Filed: Feb 2026

Your 2021 Ford Explorer is subject to a recall (NHTSA Campaign 25V393000) involving the seats, but Ford hasn't been able to provide the replacement part needed to complete the repair within a reasonable timeframe. You haven't experienced any seat failure yet, but the extended wait for parts has been frustrating.

NHTSA #: 11718923
Fuel System, Gasoline,engine1 issue
mediumFUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
Filed: Feb 2026

Your check engine light came on while driving. Your husband used a diagnostic scanner and found a problem with your emissions system. This issue appears similar to a known recall (NHTSA Campaign 25V455000), but the replacement part isn't available yet. You'll likely need a replacement emissions component once the part becomes available through your Ford dealer.

NHTSA #: 11715228

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