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2020 Ford Explorer problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2020 Ford Explorer has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated November 2, 2026.
- 35safety recalls
- 1,245owner complaints
- 37crash reports
- 11fire reports
- 38injuries reported
1,245 complaints, against an average of 915 for the other 14 Ford Explorer model years.
Every Ford Explorer model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
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What goes wrong with the 2020 Ford Explorer?
The components named most often in the 1,245 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2020 Ford Explorer owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 1,245 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why does my 2020 Ford Explorer stall, lose power or shut off while driving?82 owners · 6.6%
- Why does my 2020 Ford Explorer transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?82 owners · 6.6%
- Has the 2020 Ford Explorer had transmission failures?76 owners · 6.1% · Recall 26V402000
- Why does the backup camera not work on my 2020 Ford Explorer?75 owners · 6% · Recall 26V123000
- Does the 2020 Ford Explorer have all-wheel-drive or 4x4 problems?44 owners · 3.5%
- Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2020 Ford Explorer?39 owners · 3.1%
Fault codes 2020 Ford Explorer owners mention
Diagnostic trouble codes owners wrote in their complaints. Open a code to see what it meant on other cars and whether a recall names it.
Has the 2020 Ford Explorer been recalled?
35 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Seats: Mid/Rear Assembly Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
Risk: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2021 F-150 vehicles. The transmission park pawl may engage while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in park system damage.
Risk: Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S48. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 26, 2026.
Seat Belts Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
Risk: A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Visibility: Windshield Wiper/Washer: Motor Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.
Risk: Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
Back Over Prevention: Software Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Equipment: Electrical: Engine Block Heater Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Risk: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
Back Over Prevention: Software Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Seats: Mid/Rear Assembly Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Risk: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Back Over Prevention: Software Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 23V-199 or 22V-255. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk: A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S22.
Seat Belts Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.
Risk: A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.
Equipment: Other: Labels Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Fix: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Engine Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility Package. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S52.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank or distorted image can reduce the drivers view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall numbers 20V-575 and 22V-252.
Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk: A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S55.
Electrical System: Propulsion System: Traction Battery Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Risk: Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Back Over Prevention: Display Function Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 12.1-inch Integrated Computer Screen (ICS). When the Display On/Off Button is used to turn the display to "Off" prior to placing the vehicle in reverse, the backup camera rearview image will not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will update the ICS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C14.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm) Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk: Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm) Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.
Risk: A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S05.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Power Train: Axle Assembly Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, Explorer Police 3.3L, and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, and 3.0L ST GAS vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk: A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in 'Park' without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the bushing and axle cover, or update the electronic parking brake software. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022, and March 10, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S27.
Back Over Prevention: Software Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.
Suspension: Rear Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles. The rear lower control arm (RLCA) bolts that attach the rear lower control arms to the wheel knuckles may not have been heat-treated, which could cause them to break.
Risk: Broken RLCA bolts can cause a loss of steering control, and increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace both RLCA bolts, free of charge. The recall began on April 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S11.
Visibility: Windshield Wiper/Washer Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The affected vehicles contain windshield washer fluid that was contaminated with brake fluid. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 104, "Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems."
Risk: A washer system contaminated with brake fluid can reduce the driver's ability to clear windshield, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will flush out the washer system, replacing the washer bottle neck, washer pump assembly, fluid level sensor and the front and rear wiper blades. Dealers will also inspect and repair the vehicle's paint and exterior components if affected, free of charge. The recall began March 2, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C01.
Engine Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.
Risk: With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Storage Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L engines and 19 gallon fuel tanks. The fuel tank inlet check valve may not be fully welded to the fuel tank shell.
Risk: An incomplete weld securing the inlet check valve to the fuel tank shell could result in a substantial fuel leak during a crash, increasing the risk of fire.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank shell, free of charge. The recall began December 8, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S68.
Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with a 2.0L or 3.3L engine and a 10 Speed Automatic Transmission with the All Wheel Drive package. The drive shaft may fracture along the weld seam.
Risk: Defective drive shafts may fail and cause a loss of connection between the transfer case and rear axle, possibly resulting in a vehicle rollaway when in Park or a loss of drive. Either condition can increase the risk of a crash. The drive shafts can also deform and separate from the driveline and potentially contact the fuel tank, increasing the risk of fuel leaks and/or fire.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the drive shaft label inspected and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S65.
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.
Seat Belts: Rear/Other: Buckle Assembly Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with second row center seat belt buckles that may not be properly secured to the seat.
Risk: Vehicles with seat belt buckles that are not properly secured may fail to restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the second row center seat assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S50.
Air Bags: Critical Fasteners Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and 2020 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag and/or seat back module attachments may not have been properly tightened in the front seat backs.
Risk: If the side air bag or seat back fasteners were not properly tightened, the side air bag deployment could be affected, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove front seat back panels from one or both front seats (VIN-specific) and verify that the fasteners have been properly tightened, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S48.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery: Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Over time, the protective sleeve on the vapor fuel line may chafe through the plastic liquid fuel line and cause a fuel leak.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a longer protective sleeve on the liquid fuel line, as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners and interim notification on January 29, 2020. Recall began March 23, 2020. A second notice will be sent once parts are available, expected to be late in the first quarter of 2020. A renotification letter was sent on July 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S49.
Electrical System: Wiring Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L or 3.3L engines. The wiring harness may not have been properly secured and may contact the air conditioner compressor (A/C) pulley, potentially damaging the harness or the A/C belt.
Risk: The A/C pulley may rub through the wiring harness insulation and contact the unfused battery positive wire, resulting in a short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a tie strap to the wiring harness at the hand shock tower clip, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S32.
Seats: Front Assembly: Recliner Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Risk: A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Gear Position Indication (PRNDL) Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The Manual Park Release (MPR) cover may not be installed. In addition, the vehicles may be in Factory Mode, which disables warning alerts and does not display the transmission gear selected. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 114, "Theft Prevention" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."
Risk: Without the cover, the MPR lever may be unintentionally moved, allowing the vehicle to roll away. Being in Factory Mode, the vehicle will not display warnings and/or gear selection on the instrument cluster. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install a MPR cover. Dealers will verify the instrument cluster is not in Factory Mode and clear any fault codes, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C06.
Is the 2020 Ford Explorer recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSACrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update
Risk: On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Fix: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
UK DVSAExplorer - Rear axle bolt potential fracture
Risk: Vehicles may have been produced with bolts on the rear axle that do not meet the specification and could potentially fracture.
Fix: Replace affected parts
UK DVSAPlug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle – High Voltage Battery Diagnostic Inspection23S53 – Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle – High Voltage Battery Diagnostic Inspection
Risk: The affected vehicles may have a manufacturing defect in one or more of the vehicles. High Voltage battery cells which may result in a cell with a lower than expected capacity. In certain cases the low-capacity cell may develop an internal short circuit.
Fix: On affected vehicles the battery will be replaced.
UK DVSAThe rear axle bolts may fracture during vehicle acceleration.
Risk: In some of the affected vehicles the rear axle bolts may fracture during vehicle acceleration and may prevent the vehicle from being held stationary if the parking brake is not applied.
Fix: A software update will engage the electronic parking brake every time the vehicle is shifted into Park preventing vehicles from rolling.
UK DVSAVehicles may have an issue with the current software that contols the funtionality of the ecall system
Risk: Vehicles may have an issue with the current software that controls the functionality of the eCall system.
Fix: Carry out a software update.
EU Safety GateA bent anode plate on the high-voltage battery cells could lead to a short circuit, consequently leading to engine failure and the…A bent anode plate on the high-voltage battery cells could lead to a short circuit, consequently leading to engine failure and the shutdown of the battery, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe seat belt's retraction mechanism does not work properly.This may result in a loose roll and insufficient tension of the seatbelt, increasing the risk of an injury in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA faulty part within the high-voltage battery cells could cause the battery to short-circuit and cause a fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA problem may occur with the current Telematic control unit (TCU) software, which could affect the functionality of the eCall system.As a result, emergency service may not be contacted in case of need.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
What do 2020 Ford Explorer owners report?
12 of the 1,245 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
Front axle disconnect actuator on my 2020 Ford Explorer 2.3L AWD is failing. The vehicle stores DTC C0631-7E (Actuator Stuck On) and previously stored C0631-7F (Actuator Stuck Off). When the fault is active, the wrench light comes on and the following safety systems are disabled: AdvanceTrac, Pre-Collision Assist, and Hill Start Assist. Ford has issued TSB 25-2373 / 25-2568 for this exact issue requiring replacement of the intermediate shaft with revised part N1MZ-3A329-A and AWD module reprogramming, but there is no recall. Owners must pay for the repair. The problem is intermittent and has…
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V402000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue.
My 2020 Ford Explorer previously received a safety recall repair under Ford Recall 23S23 for the 360-degree/rearview camera system. Unfortunately, the camera system is malfunctioning again following that repair. The 360-degree display intermittently shows solid blue/teal or black areas instead of properly displaying the vehicle’s surroundings. The camera images also become washed out, distorted, or unusually dark, reducing visibility when reversing. Additionally, my instrument cluster displays the warning “Reverse Brake Assist Not Available – See Manual.” These problems raise serious safety…
My transmission had been getting increasingly jerky (was never a smooth ride since it was new). At 55k miles, I was driving down the road and my car started to jerk roughly and would not shift gears. It would go and jerk, hard, like I hit something. We made it home but the next day it was even worse. I noted it was jerking around 25 mph and randomly at other speeds. I drove it to Ford, where we were under the impression there was an upcoming transmission recall, but we also thought our extended warranty was still in effect. Instead, they realized the transmission recall is for something…
When I am driving, every now and then there is a grinding/electrocution noise that my vehicle makes. When that happens, I lose all acceleration power until the episode stops then it seems like it kicks back into gear.
Power steering doesnot work , steering was hard also antilock brake failure
on the highway it was raining heavily, and my [XXX] old was in car back seat. Suddenly wipers stopped working, Steering wheel wasn't working, indicator was not working, I was getting multiple warnings on my screen. We would have ended up in a major accident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle was shaking excessively, with severe vibrations throughout the cabin of the vehicle. The failure was coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that while approaching a stop sign or a red light and depressing the brake pedal, the RPM was rising and the vehicle failed to stop as intended, causing the vehicle to crash into a pole in a parking lot, causing a dent to the front grille and scratches in the paint. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was taken to an authorized…
Drivers side low beam intermittently does not operate. Becoming more and more common. Now, passenger side lamp is doing the exact same thing, and both shut down while in motion at night. These lamps should not fail like this. There is an existing recall for 2026 vehicles with the exact same issues.
I own a 2020 Ford Explorer XLT AWD, VIN 1FMSK8DH6LGA35229. While driving, my vehicle displayed “4WD Fault – Service Required” along with the powertrain wrench warning. I then became unable to select/change drive modes. Pre-Collision Assist became unavailable, I experienced Lane Keeping/Lane Assist problems, and additional stability/traction warnings appeared. A professional diagnostic scan found AWD codes C0631:7E-68 and C0631:7F-6C related to the front axle disconnect actuator. The ABS module also stored U0102 (Lost Communication With Transfer Case Control Module) and U0155 (Lost…
Service advance track 4 weel drive doesn’t work and I don’t have control on the weels
SUMMARY OF FACTS FOR LEGAL CONSULTATION Bad Faith Redhibition Claim — Louisiana Civil Code Art. 2545 Prepared for Attorney Consultation 1. Vehicle & Transaction Information Vehicle2020 Ford Explorer ST — AWDPurchase DateMarch 2025Purchase Structure17,000 trade-in applied 17,000 remaining loan balanceAdditional Warranty2,500 paid warranty purchased through dealership at time of saleSelling DealerIndependently licensed dealership (non-Ford franchise)Warranty ServiceWarranty work performed during coverage period 2. The Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 23-2174) Ford issued TSB 23-2174 in July 2023…
2020 Ford Explorer: questions owners ask
Is the 2020 Ford Explorer reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 1,245 complaints with NHTSA about the 2020 Ford Explorer; the most common categories were power train (504, 40.5%), electrical system (186, 14.9%), engine (117, 9.4%). There are 35 safety recalls. 37 complaints mention a crash, 11 mention a fire, 38 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Ford Explorer?
Across 1,245 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are power train (40.5% of complaints), electrical system (14.9% of complaints), engine (9.4% of complaints), back over prevention (8.4% of complaints), service brakes (6.7% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2020 Ford Explorer have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 35 recalls for the 2020 Ford Explorer; the most recent (campaign 26V451000, 2026-07-14) concerns Seats: Mid/Rear Assembly. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2020 Ford Explorer stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
82 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (6.6%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Drivers side low beam intermittently does not operate. Becoming more and more common. Now, passenger side lamp is doing the exact same thing, and both shut down while in motion at night. These lamps should not fail like this." (NHTSA complaint 11768857, October 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2020 Ford Explorer transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?
82 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (6.6%) describe harsh, jerky or delayed transmission shifting or shuddering. One owner wrote: "Vehicle started hard shifting while driving and noticed hard shifts when slowing down. Vehicle then began to lose power while driving. Display screen has issues at times screen will only display blue or stay in backup camera mode." (NHTSA complaint 11756878, August 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Has the 2020 Ford Explorer had transmission failures?
76 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (6.1%) describe transmission failure, slipping or a replaced transmission. 5 related recalls exist: campaign 26V402000 (power train: automatic transmission). The fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. One owner wrote: "My 2020 Ford Explorer Limited has a broken transmission matching Recall 26S48. The car cannot be driven. My local dealer wants to help but has zero loaner vehicles available." (NHTSA complaint 11765633, September 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does the backup camera not work on my 2020 Ford Explorer?
75 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (6%) describe the rearview or backup camera failing or showing a blank screen. 9 related recalls exist: campaign 26V123000 (back over prevention: software). The fix: Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. One owner wrote: "Rear view camera 360 camera when backing up is going to a blue or black screen. When it’s not going black or blue the image is very grainy and hard to see image while backing up." (NHTSA complaint 11725119, March 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Does the 2020 Ford Explorer have all-wheel-drive or 4x4 problems?
44 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (3.5%) describe all-wheel-drive, 4x4 or transfer case faults. One owner wrote: "While traveling uphill in a turn on a county highway the 4WD fault notification arrived on the dash cutting power to the front 2 wheels. The vehicle slipped however was able to regain control." (NHTSA complaint 11751219, July 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2020 Ford Explorer?
39 of the 1,245 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer (3.1%) describe headlights, taillights or brake lights failing or condensation in the lamps. One owner wrote: "The passenger headlight low beam does not work.This has been identified by an Independent service center. The Check Headlight System message shows on dashboard. Bought the car in 2023 and the headlight has not worked for 2 years." (NHTSA complaint 11759016, August 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Explorer
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved November 2, 2026. Model year 2020 only; combines NHTSA's entries for EXPLORER, EXPLORER HEV and EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPT. How these reports are made.