What is the class action lawsuit against the Ford Explorer?
There is no single nationwide class action against the Ford Explorer as a model. Instead, over the years multiple separate lawsuits have been filed alleging various defects in different Explorer model years, with outcomes that vary by jurisdiction. This article explains how those actions have appeared, what they typically claim, and how to check current status.
Overview of the lawsuits
Owners and lessees have sometimes joined together in class actions to pursue common claims about defects in certain Explorer models. The most frequently referenced issues in filings include infotainment system problems and mechanical reliability concerns that plaintiffs attribute to the vehicle’s powertrain or electrical systems.
Below are common claim areas that have appeared in Ford Explorer-related class actions in recent years.
- Infotainment and MyFord Touch defects, including unresponsive or laggy screens, faulty navigation, and recurring software updates.
- Transmission and powertrain issues, with plaintiffs alleging premature wear, shuddering, or loss of drive in certain model years.
- Electrical system and software-related defects, covering control modules, sensors, wiring, and related components that allegedly malfunction and lead to repair costs.
These categories reflect trends in filings and are not a guarantee that a given Explorer is covered by a class action. Prospective plaintiffs should review the specific case filings and certified classes in their jurisdiction.
Notable cases and settlements
Several Ford Explorer-related actions have been highlighted in media and legal summaries. In many cases, plaintiffs sought class certification or reached settlements that offered remedies such as service credits, warranty extensions, or financial compensation to affected owners. Status and terms have varied widely by court and year.
MyFord Touch litigation
The best-known example among Explorer-related actions is the MyFord Touch/Sync infotainment litigation, which spanned several Ford models, including the Explorer. Plaintiffs argued the touchscreen and related software were unreliable and costly to repair or replace. Courts handled motions for class certification in some jurisdictions, and Ford pursued settlements and remedies in others. As with many tech-system actions, outcomes depended on the specific claims, model year, and court rules.
Other related actions
Other class actions have addressed powertrain, electrical, and control-system issues in various Ford vehicles, including the Explorer, but details and outcomes vary by jurisdiction. Some cases were filed in state courts, others in federal courts, and many did not result in nationwide settlements.
Note: This article summarizes publicly reported information and is not legal advice. For current status, consult court records, official Ford disclosures, and a qualified attorney.
How to verify current status
To determine whether a specific Ford Explorer model year is covered by a class action, check official court dockets and credible legal databases. Look for class-certified filings that name the Explorer or the MyFord Touch system and review the latest settlement notices or court orders.
Steps you can take include:
- Search federal and state court dockets (PACER in the U.S.; equivalent portals in other countries).
- Check consumer-law watchdog sites and major law firm blogs that track automotive class actions.
- Contact a consumer-law attorney who specializes in vehicle-defect litigation.
Summary
There is no single, ongoing nationwide class action against the Ford Explorer. Instead, multiple lawsuits over the years have alleged distinct defects in various model years, with the most notable being actions around the MyFord Touch infotainment system. Outcomes have been uneven, with some settlements and court decisions offering remedies to affected owners. If you own an Explorer and believe you may be part of a class action, verify status through official court records and seek legal counsel for guidance.
