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What Ford Explorer is being recalled?

The recall currently targets specific Ford Explorer model years and VIN ranges; to determine if your vehicle is affected, check Ford’s and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recall databases using your vehicle’s VIN.

Understanding the recall landscape

How to check if your Explorer is affected

To verify whether your specific Explorer is included in a recall, follow these steps:

Locate your vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is a 17-character code found on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s doorjamb.

Visit the NHTSA recall lookup page or Ford’s official recall page and input your VIN.

Review the results to see if any recalls are open or active for your vehicle.

If a recall applies, contact your Ford dealer to schedule a free repair or replacement as directed by the recall notice.

Note: If your VIN shows no recalls, your Explorer is not currently listed in open recalls in the official databases. However, recalls can be issued or updated, so check periodically or sign up for recall alerts.

What to expect at the dealership

Dealerships typically perform recall service at no cost and may offer a courtesy vehicle or other accommodations depending on the repair duration. Parts availability can influence scheduling, but most recalls are completed within a few hours. For safety-critical issues, the dealership may provide immediate guidance on driving precautions until the repair is completed.

Safety reminders

Even without a current recall, regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning lights or unusual vehicle behavior are essential. Keep your contact information with Ford and NHTSA up to date to receive recall notices and updates.

Summary

Recall information for the Ford Explorer is model-year and VIN-specific. The only reliable way to know if your vehicle is affected is to check your VIN against official databases from NHTSA and Ford. If a recall applies, arrange service with a Ford dealer to have it repaired at no cost. Stay informed through official channels and consider subscribing to recall alerts for timely updates.

What are the new recalls on the Ford Explorer?

The most recent Ford Explorer recalls are for a 2025 engine failure risk from a mis-machined connecting rod, and for certain 2025-2026 models with windshield bubbles that could obstruct visibility. Additionally, recalls for 2025 models address potential tail light failures when towing and a 2021-2022 engine intake valve issue remain relevant.
Latest recall: Engine failure risk

Vehicles affected: Certain 2025 Ford Explorer, F-150, and Transit models with 3.3-liter or 3.5-liter V6 engines.
Issue: A potentially mis-machined connecting rod in the engine could lead to reduced power, an engine stall, and difficulty restarting.
Fix: A remedy is still being developed, but will involve free repairs to major engine components.

Other recent recalls

Windshield bubbles: Certain 2025-2026 Explorer, Corsair, and Aviator models may have windshields with air bubbles that can obscure visibility.
Tail light failure: Certain 2025 Ford Explorer models may experience tail light failure when towing, which increases the risk of a crash.
Engine intake valves: A recall for certain 2021-2022 Ford Explorer, Edge, Bronco, and F-150 vehicles is due to engine intake valves that could break.
Parking gear failure: Some 2022-2023 Explorers have a recall for a parking gear failure where the transmission could reset while in drive. The fix for this involves a software update and, in some cases, a hardware fix.

How to check for recalls

You can check if your vehicle is affected by using the VIN checker on the Ford website or on Kelley Blue Book's recall center.

What Ford models are currently recalled?

Recent Recalls

Takata Airbag Recall.
25S76: 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport® / 2020-2022 Ford Escape®
24S55: 2021-2022 Ford Bronco® / Edge® / Explorer® / F-150®
24S44: 2022-2023 Ford Mustang®
23S37: 2014 Ford F-150®

Which Ford Explorer to stay away from?

Ford Explorer models to avoid include the 2002-2006 models, which are known for serious transmission and engine problems, and the 2020 model year, which had numerous recalls and quality control issues. Other problematic years include the 2016 due to recalls and poor construction, and some early 2021s built in 2020 due to manufacturing issues, although later 2021 models and the 2022 model are generally considered more reliable, despite 2022 receiving some criticism for ride quality and fuel economy.
This video explains why some model years of the Ford Explorer are more problematic than others: 56sAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Mar 2, 2025
Specific years to avoid

2002-2006: The third generation of this model is notoriously unreliable, with widespread complaints about transmissions, engines, and electrical systems.
2016: This year had significant quality control issues, including faulty parts, poor assembly, and recalls for recalls for loose control arm bolts, seat belts, and airbags.
2020: The first year of the new design had quality control issues, including transmission problems, recalls, and poor fit and finish.
2022: While more reliable than earlier years, this model received a lukewarm reception from some reviewers due to a stiff ride, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and a lack of features compared to competitors.

Common issues in other model years

5th Generation (2011-2019): While generally more reliable than the third generation, some models experienced issues like premature wear on suspension components and water pump failures on the 3.5L engines.
6th Generation (2020-Present): Owners have reported problems such as premature failure of the CV axle boot, issues with the hub disconnect actuator, and rattling exhaust flex pipes.

How do I know if my Explorer is recalled?

To find out if your Ford Explorer has a recall, enter your vehicle's VIN on the Ford website, the NHTSA website, or another recall-checking site. Ford has issued several recent recalls for different model years, including issues with the roof trim for 2011-2019 models and potential rollaway risks for 2020-2022 models.

How to check for recalls

Use the VIN: Go to a recall lookup tool and enter your vehicle's 17-character VIN. You can find this on your dashboard, driver's side door, or registration documents.
- Ford Recall Center
- NHTSA Recall Search
- RepairPal Safety Recall Checker
Use the FordPass App: If you use the FordPass app, the "Recall" tile will appear on your Service dashboard if your vehicle has an active recall.
Use your license plate: The NHTSA website also allows you to check for recalls using your license plate number and state.

Examples of recent Ford Explorer recalls

2020–2022 Explorers: A potential rollaway risk if the parking brake isn't engaged, due to a rear axle mounting bolt that could fracture.
2011–2019 Explorers: A piece of trim on the roof near the windshield could detach due to loose clips.
2021 Explorer: A defective rear axle horizontal mounting bolt.
2020–2022 Explorer: Issues with the rearview camera display.
2025 Explorer: A potential transmission issue that can cause reverse gear failure.
2025-2026 Explorer: Windshield glass with air bubbles that could obscure visibility.

What to do if there is an open recall

Contact a Ford dealer to schedule a free repair.
If you have an open safety recall, you should get it repaired for free.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.