What is the lawsuit on the 2020 Ford Explorer?

The 2020 Ford Explorer has become the target of multiple lawsuits across different jurisdictions, but there is not a single nationwide case. Plaintiffs commonly allege defects tied to the vehicle’s transmission and related safety concerns, and they seek damages, repairs, or other remedies. This article lays out what the lawsuits claim, where they stand, and how Ford has responded, with guidance for owners and buyers.

What the lawsuits allege

Before outlining the specific claims, it’s useful to understand the broad categories that appear in most actions against Ford related to the 2020 Explorer.

• Transmission and powertrain defects: plaintiffs claim the 10‑speed automatic transmission can exhibit jerking, hesitation, shifting problems, or loss of power, creating reliability and safety concerns.


• Design, manufacturing, and disclosure issues: lawsuits often contend Ford knew or should have known about defects but failed to disclose or adequately remedy them under warranty or consumer protections.


• Safety risks and potential for accidents: plaintiffs assert that the alleged defects increase the risk of accidents, loss of vehicle control, or other safety harms, sometimes leading to repair costs or diminished vehicle value.

These broad categories describe the core claims that appear across multiple complaints. Individual cases may emphasize one or more of these theories and can hinge on state consumer-protection laws, warranty standards, or product liability principles.

Where the lawsuits are playing out and their status

Litigation related to the 2020 Explorer spans federal and state courts, with some actions organized in coordinated procedures. The landscape typically includes a mix of class actions and individual lawsuits, and many cases evolve as discovery proceeds or as settlements are reached with plaintiffs or with the company.

Before summarizing the current posture, here is a concise snapshot of the litigation framework you’ll encounter in public records:

• Federal and state filings: Actions have been filed in multiple jurisdictions, with some cases consolidated for pretrial management in a multidistrict or coordinated context where applicable.


• Case types: The docket includes class actions as well as individual lawsuits, each pursuing remedies such as repairs, damages for diminished value, or warranty-related relief.


• Procedural status: Outcomes vary by case and jurisdiction; some actions are in discovery stages, others may have reached settlements or trial settings at different times.

Because the docket is continually updated, readers should check official court records or newsroom reports for the latest case names, numbers, and rulings. The litigation around the 2020 Explorer reflects broader tensions between automakers, consumer protection statutes, and evolving notions of defect disclosure.

Ford’s response and consumer guidance

Ford has repeatedly stated that safety is a priority and that the company participates in recalls and service programs when warranted. Public statements typically emphasize compliance with safety standards and ongoing support for customers experiencing vehicle issues.

Before pursuing the next steps, consider these practical points for current owners or prospective buyers:

• Check for recalls and open campaigns: use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) VIN lookup to see if your 2020 Explorer is subject to any recalls or service campaigns.


• Contact Ford customer service or your local dealer: if you notice transmission symptoms or other defects, schedule a service appointment and keep all repair records.


• Document issues and seek advice: keep a detailed log of symptoms, repair attempts, and communications with Ford or dealers; consider consulting a consumer attorney if problems persist or you believe you were misled.


• Know your rights under lemon laws and warranties: depending on your state, you may have remedies if the vehicle continues to experience nonconformities after a reasonable number of repair attempts.

For ongoing updates, owners should monitor official statements from Ford, NHTSA recall notices, and credible court reporting about the evolving litigation landscape.

Summary

The legal situation surrounding the 2020 Ford Explorer comprises multiple, ongoing lawsuits rather than a single case. The core claims focus on alleged transmission and powertrain defects, disclosure shortfalls, and safety risks. Litigation is dispersed across federal and state courts, with various procedural developments expected as cases move through discovery, possible settlements, or trial. Ford maintains that it prioritizes safety and compliance, while consumers are advised to verify recall status, document issues, and seek professional guidance if defects persist. This topic remains dynamic, so checking current court records and official company communications will yield the latest information.

What is the lawsuit on the Ford Explorer 2020?

Lawsuits against the 2020 Ford Explorer primarily focus on a defect where a rear axle mounting bolt can fracture, leading to severe noise, vibration, or loss of vehicle control. A class action lawsuit was filed alleging that a single-bolt rear subframe assembly, used in some 2020-present models, is prone to failure. Although Ford Authority reported that one specific lawsuit was dismissed, multiple other legal actions are ongoing.
 
This video discusses a recall of Ford Explorer vehicles due to a potential fire risk: 30sABC 7 ChicagoYouTube · Aug 20, 2024
Lawsuit details

• Defect: The lawsuits allege that a single rear axle horizontal mounting bolt on certain 2020-present Ford Explorer models, particularly the ST trim and others with higher horsepower, is defective. 
• Cause: The single-bolt design is said to experience increased stress, which can cause the bolt to fracture. This can lead to a disconnection of the driveshaft, causing damage to the vehicle's suspension and other components. 
• Allegations: The lawsuits claim that Ford failed to disclose this defect and the associated safety risks. They also allege that the recall remedy for this issue was inadequate. 
• Ford's response: Ford has issued a recall and offered repairs, but has also argued that the recall is an adequate fix and that some plaintiffs have not actually experienced the problem. 
• Current status: One lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed, while others remain active. 

This video discusses a recall of Ford Explorer vehicles due to an investigation into possible seatbelt issues: 28s10 Tampa BayYouTube · Feb 21, 2025
What you should know

• Impact: The defect can cause severe noises, vibrations, and a risk of losing control of the vehicle. 
• Recall: Ford issued a recall to address this issue, and dealers are instructed to replace the defective bolts. 
• Legal action: Some owners have filed class-action lawsuits, claiming the recall remedy is insufficient and that the single-bolt design is a fundamental flaw. 
• Other recalls: There are other recalls and potential lawsuits concerning other issues, such as under-hood fires on some models and transmission problems. 

What is the class action lawsuit on the Ford Explorer?

Several class action lawsuits have been filed against Ford concerning the Explorer, including recent claims about a defective rear subframe in 2020-present ST models and an older settlement for a carbon monoxide leak issue in 2016-2017 models. Other investigations have looked into power steering failure and potential EcoBoost engine problems. 
Current and recent lawsuits

• Rear Subframe Defect (2020-present ST models): A class action lawsuit alleges that certain 2020 and newer Ford Explorer ST models have a defective rear subframe assembly, specifically the horizontal mounting bolt, which can fracture. The lawsuit claims this could lead to a loss of vehicle control. 
• EcoBoost Engine Defect: There are class action lawsuits and investigations claiming that EcoBoost engines in certain Ford vehicles have a defective head gasket design that can cause engine overheating, smoke, and even engine failure. 
• Power Steering Failure (2016-2018 models): Some investigations focus on 2016-2018 Ford Explorer (and Escape) models where a warning message may appear, causing a loss of steering assist and making the steering wheel difficult or impossible to turn. 

Past settlements

• Carbon Monoxide Leak (2016-2017 models): A settlement was preliminarily approved for owners of 2016-2017 Ford Explorer models due to concerns that exhaust entered the passenger cabin. This could lead to a potential risk of carbon monoxide exposure. 

How to get information

• Contact a lawyer: To determine your eligibility, it's best to contact an attorney who specializes in class action lawsuits to discuss the specifics of your situation. 
• Check settlement websites: If you believe you are part of a past settlement, you may be able to find information and filing instructions on the settlement's official website. For the 2016-2017 carbon monoxide leak settlement, the website was explorerExhaustSettlement.net. 
• Monitor legal news websites: Law firms and legal news outlets often publish updates on the progress of class action lawsuits, which can be a useful source of information. 

Is there a recall on the Ford Explorer 2020?

2020 Ford Explorer has several recalls, including a significant one for the driveshaft that can disconnect due to a fractured rear axle bolt, leading to a potential loss of power or vehicle rollaway. Another recall addresses issues with the 360-degree camera system, where the video output may fail and not display the rearview camera image. Additionally, there are recalls for incorrectly secured seat belt buckle anchor bolts, which may not properly restrain occupants in a crash. 
Driveshaft and rear axle recall 

• Issue: A rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture, causing the driveshaft to disconnect. 
• Risk: This can lead to a loss of drive power while driving or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied when the vehicle is in park. 
• Fix: Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect and replace the rear axle cover if it's damaged. 

Camera system recall

• Issue: The 360-degree camera system may have a video output failure, preventing the rearview camera from displaying an image.
• Fix: This recall is for vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras and requires a VIN check to see if your specific vehicle is affected. 

Seat belt recall

• Issue: The seat belt buckle anchor bolts, or second-row center seat belt retractor anchor bolts, may be improperly secured. 
• Risk: The seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. 
• Fix: Dealers will inspect and properly secure or replace the affected bolts. 

Other potential recalls

• Engine block heater: Some 2016-2023 Explorers, including some 2020 models, are recalled because the engine block heater cord can crack and leak coolant, posing an electrical short circuit risk when plugged in. 
• Parking brake software update: Some 2020-2022 Explorers received a PCM update under recall 22V-255, but this update did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when shifted to park. A subsequent recall or fix may be necessary for this issue. 

How to check for recalls

• Visit the Ford Owner Support recall page or use the Ford app. 
• Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to search by your vehicle's 17-digit VIN. 
• Ford will mail recall letters to the last known registered owner within 60 days of the recall being issued. 

How do I join the Ford class action lawsuit?

To join a Ford class action lawsuit, first confirm you meet the specific eligibility criteria for that case by checking the official settlement or law firm website. If you are eligible, you can then either file a claim directly through the settlement administrator's website or contact a law firm that specializes in class action litigation to assist you with the process. Be sure to gather and be prepared to submit proof of your experience, such as repair records and purchase documents. 
Before you join

• Identify the specific lawsuit: Class actions target specific issues, so you need to find the one that applies to your situation (e.g., a particular transmission defect, engine problem, or vehicle model). 
• Confirm eligibility: Each class action has specific criteria, such as the model year of your vehicle and the date you purchased or leased it. Check the official settlement website or contact the law firm for details on who qualifies. 
• Gather documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including purchase/lease paperwork, repair records, and any correspondence with Ford or a dealership. 

How to join

• Submit a claim online: For many settled cases, you can submit a claim form directly through the settlement's official website. This often involves filling out an online form. 
• Contact a law firm: Find an attorney who specializes in automotive class action lawsuits. They can guide you through the process of verifying your eligibility, filing the necessary documents, and ensuring you meet all requirements. 
• Follow instructions: Pay close attention to all instructions from the settlement administrator or law firm. This may include signing specific documents or providing additional information. 
• Be aware of deadlines: Class actions have strict deadlines for joining or filing a claim. Make sure to act quickly once you have identified the correct lawsuit and confirmed your eligibility.