What is the transmission issue on the Ford Explorer 2022?
The 2022 Ford Explorer has faced reports of transmission problems such as harsh or delayed shifting, shuddering, and occasional loss of drive; Ford has rolled out software updates and service campaigns to address these concerns, with some VINs covered by recalls or targeted fixes.
What drivers are experiencing with the 2022 Explorer
Here are the most commonly reported signs and symptoms associated with the 2022 Explorer’s transmission, as described by owners and reviewed by service technicians:
- Harsh, abrupt, or delayed upshifts or downshifts at various speeds
- Transmission shudder or surging, especially during acceleration or when starting from a stop
- Slipping out of gear or sudden loss of power while driving
- Unusual noises, such as whining or grinding, coming from the transmission area
- Dashboard warning lights or transmission fault codes appearing on the vehicle’s display
These symptoms have been reported across 2020–2022 Explorers equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission. In many cases, owners have found relief after software updates or approved repairs at a Ford dealer, though results can vary by vehicle and maintenance history.
Ford's response and official actions
Ford has acknowledged transmission-related complaints and taken steps to address them through software updates, service bulletins, and targeted recalls or campaigns for affected VINs. The remedies commonly focus on improving shift quality and correcting transmission behavior that can lead to shudder or unintended gear changes.
In parallel, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) maintains a database of complaints, recalls, and service campaigns related to the Explorer’s transmission. Owners should check both Ford’s official recall/TSB notices and the NHTSA database for their vehicle’s VIN to determine current coverage and required actions.
While some fixes involve software recalibration, others have required component inspections or replacements, such as valve bodies or related hydraulic/electrical parts, depending on the diagnosed root cause and the VIN-specific campaign.
- Software updates to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to smooth out shift quality and reduce harsh shifts.
- Valve body inspection and, if necessary, replacement or rebuilding to address hydraulic pressure irregularities that can cause shudder or slipping.
- Recall or service campaigns targeting specific VINs to fix transmission faults, including wiring, sensors, or harness-related issues that influence transmission behavior.
- Dealer diagnostics with possible transmission component replacement (such as solenoids, sensors, or related parts) for persistent or replicated issues.
These actions illustrate Ford’s approach to addressing reported problems, though not all 2022 Explorers are affected and remedies depend on VIN and the dealer’s diagnosis.
What owners should do
If you own a 2022 Ford Explorer and notice transmission problems, follow these steps to protect safety and pursue an appropriate remedy:
- Check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) against Ford’s recall and service campaign listings and the NHTSA recall database to see if there are active issues or updates for your vehicle.
- Schedule a service appointment with an authorized Ford dealer and provide a detailed description of symptoms, including when they occur and whether they involve loss of power or shudder.
- Ask about available software updates or coverage under a recall/service campaign; software fixes can sometimes resolve shifting issues without a part replacement.
- If the vehicle loses power or behaves unexpectedly while driving, pull over safely and seek roadside assistance; avoid continuing to drive in a potentially dangerous condition.
- Keep records of symptoms, service visits, and communications with Ford or the dealer; consider filing a safety complaint with NHTSA if issues persist or cause safety concerns.
Maintaining thorough documentation helps with warranty claims and any future regulatory or consumer actions.
What to know as a buyer
For those considering a used or new 2022 Explorer, here are practical considerations related to the transmission:
- Verify that any open recalls or service campaigns for the transmission have been completed on the specific vehicle or are scheduled for completion.
- Confirm whether the dealer has performed relevant software updates or hardware replacements tied to the transmission issue.
- Review maintenance records for recent transmission-related service and ensure routine maintenance aligned with Ford’s recommendations.
During a test drive, listen for hard or abrupt shifts, unusual noises, or any hesitation in engine response, and consider having a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focused on the drivetrain and transmission system.
Summary
Across model years of the 2022 Explorer, transmission-related complaints have centered on shifting quality, shudder, and occasional loss of drive, with Ford responding through software updates, service bulletins, and targeted recalls for affected VINs. Prospective buyers should verify recall status, review service history, and test-drive with attention to transmission behavior. If you already own a 2022 Explorer, monitor for updates from Ford and contact a dealer promptly if symptoms appear.
