Does the 2020 Ford Explorer have any recalls?

The 2020 Ford Explorer has been the subject of several recalls since it first hit showrooms. Yes—the model has had recall actions issued, but whether a particular vehicle is affected depends on its unique VIN (vehicle identification number).

This article explains the recalls that have involved the 2020 Explorer, how to verify whether your specific vehicle is covered, and what steps to take if a recall applies to you. It draws on official data from Ford and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Overview of recalls affecting the 2020 Ford Explorer

The following categories reflect recall actions reported for the 2020 Explorer and related model years. The exact issues and whether a given VIN is affected vary by vehicle.

• Airbags and seat belts safety systems — recalls related to airbag deployment sensors, seat belt pretensioners, or related safety components.


• Electrical system and software — issues involving wiring, wiring harnesses, power options, and infotainment or body-control software that may affect operation or warnings.


• Transmission and shifting mechanisms — including problems with the gear selector or transmission control that could affect shifting or vehicle response.


• Fuel system — recalls addressing potential leaks or fuel delivery concerns that could pose fire or performance risks.


• Steering and braking system — issues affecting steering assist, brake performance, or related components that could influence controllability.

If your vehicle falls into any of these categories, it does not automatically mean you are affected; recall coverage is VIN-specific. Always check your VIN to confirm.

How to check recalls for your 2020 Explorer

To determine if your specific Explorer is under a recall, use these official resources and steps. The information is VIN-driven, so a vehicle-by-vehicle check is essential.

• Use the NHTSA VIN lookup at SaferCar.gov/vinlookup. Enter your 17-character VIN to see active and past recalls that may apply to your vehicle.


• Check Ford’s official Owner site (Ford.com) by entering your VIN to get recall status and recommended steps.


• Contact your local Ford dealer. Provide your VIN and they can verify recall status and schedule any needed service.


• Sign up for recall notifications. Ford and NHTSA offer alerts so you’re informed if a remedy becomes available for your VIN.

Act promptly if a recall is identified. Remedies are typically performed at no cost to the vehicle owner and usually take place at an authorized dealer.

What to do if you receive a recall notice

If you receive a recall notice, the recommended course of action is to contact a Ford dealer as soon as possible to schedule the repair. Do not assume you must wait for a fixed appointment window; many dealers offer priority or same-day slots for safety-related recalls.

Owners should also document communication with the dealer and keep any service receipts. If you experience symptoms before a recall remedy is completed, contact your dealer right away for guidance, as some recalls involve safety-critical components.

Summary

Yes, the 2020 Ford Explorer has had recall actions issued. Whether your specific vehicle is affected depends on its VIN, so verify using official VIN lookup tools from NHTSA and Ford. If a recall applies, contact a Ford dealer promptly to arrange a free remedy. Staying informed through official recall databases helps ensure you know when and how your vehicle can be safely updated.

What is the major recall on the Ford Explorer?

Ford Motor Company has issued multiple recalls for the 2021 Ford Explorer to fix problems ranging from faulty airbag fasteners to rear suspension issues. The latest Ford Explorer 2021 recall stems from a defective rear axle horizontal mounting bolt.

Is there a recall on the transmission on the 2020 Ford Expedition?

Yes, the 2020 Ford Expedition has had a transmission recall related to a gearshift cable lock clip that may not be fully seated, which could cause the vehicle to move unintentionally if the parking brake isn't applied. Additionally, there was a separate recall for certain 2020 models built between March 3-19, 2020.
 
This video explains a technical service bulletin related to Ford's 10-speed transmission: 58sEnthusiasts GarageYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
2020 Ford Expedition transmission recall

• Issue: A clip that locks the gearshift cable to the transmission may not be fully seated.
• Safety risk: This could allow the transmission to be in a gear different from the one selected by the driver. If the driver puts the vehicle in Park and removes the key but the transmission is not actually in Park, the vehicle could roll away if the parking brake isn't applied.
• Affected vehicles: Certain 2020 Ford Expedition vehicles built at the Kentucky Truck Plant from March 3 to March 19, 2020, are affected.
• Remedy: Dealers will inspect the shift cable lock clip and correct its installation for free. 

Other potential transmission issues

• Ongoing problems: Some owners report continued issues with the 10-speed automatic transmission, even after repairs, such as gear slipping and shifting problems. 
• Technical service bulletins (TSBs): Ford has issued TSBs related to other transmission concerns, such as a whistling noise from the output shaft bearing at low speeds. 

How to check for recalls

• You can check for recalls on your specific vehicle using the NHTSA website by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). 
• You can also check the Ford support website for specific campaign information, such as Campaign/NHTSA# 22S43/22V413. 

What is the lawsuit on the 2020 Ford Explorer?

A Ford Explorer lawsuit alleges that Ford used defective subframes on 2020-2023 Ford Explorer vehicles as a cost-saving measure and failed to fix them during a rear axle bolt recall. Ford made two different types of rear subframe assemblies for the Ford Explorer. The first has two rear axle horizontal mounting bolts.

Does the 2020 Ford Explorer have issues?

Common problems with the 2020 Ford Explorer include transmission issues, such as jerky shifting and failure, exhaust leaks, and backup camera malfunctions. Other reported issues involve engine problems, a stiff or rough ride, and various electrical quirks, according to Consumer Reports and other sources.
 
This video discusses the common problems in the 2020 Ford Explorer: 1msavagegeeseYouTube · Jan 24, 2020
Powertrain

• Transmission: Jerky shifting, delayed engagement, harsh shifts, and premature failure are frequently reported. Some owners have experienced a loss of power while driving. 
• Exhaust: Owners have reported exhaust leaks, which can cause rough idling and vibrations. 
• Engine: Stalling, power loss, and overheating have been reported by some owners. 

This video explains a major problem with the transmission cooler in the 2020 Ford Explorer: 55sFlying WrenchesYouTube · Feb 20, 2021
Electrical and technology

• Backup camera: Some owners have reported a blue screen or other malfunctions when shifting into reverse. 
• Other electrical: Problems include warning light malfunctions, issues with the all-wheel-drive control, and even the possibility of the vehicle not recognizing when it is in park, according to The Lemon Lawyers and the Detroit Free Press. 

Suspension and ride

• Stiff ride: The ride can be stiff, particularly on upper trims with larger wheels. A rough ride is a common complaint from many owners.
• Noises: Some owners report clunking sounds from the suspension at low speeds. 

Other common problems

• Rear axle: There have been lawsuits and complaints regarding a potential problem with a rear axle mounting bolt fracturing. 
• Front axle disconnect actuator: Leaks and failures have been reported with the front axle disconnect actuator, requiring replacement of both the actuator and the CV axle. 
• Plastic and trim: Some owners have reported flaking chrome trim, and other reports mention a build-up of plastic parts that can flap under the vehicle.