2020 FORD EXPLORER Engine Problems

My explorer was very slow/unable to accelerate onto the highway. The next time I started it there was rattling and lots of non engine noises, along with all kinds of warning lights. I took it to the dealership. In his words ‘the turbo grenaded itself into the engine. Quoted me 15k to fix/replace the engine, turbo and half shaft. I still owe 9k on it. Extended warranty that I purchased expired 4,000 miles ago. I have had multiple issues with this vehicle since I purchased it brand new in 2020. I am trading it in tomorrow🙁

I was driving down upper pleasant ridge road caldwell id . Had cruise control on doing 50 and all of a sudden car just stopped in the middle of the road. No warning, no noise, no smoke , no check engine light nothing. I was in the middle of the road ,in the dark. Had to call the canyon county sheriff out to help me not get hit by a car waiting on the tow truck. Put jumper cables on battery my new battery bought in jan 2025 started smoking what ever happen fried my battery . Took it to dealership waiting on info

slipping gears between 1&2nd gear, harsh/delayed shifting, some power loss. Vehicle is around 120k miles

On highway was accelerating to pass another vehicle the transition froze , engine revved with no acceleration ( transmission skipped) this has happened several times over the 5 years. The lasted event we documented the date and mileage it happened date 7/13/25 mileage is 34990. These skips have put us in extremely dangerous situations. Transmission has been making growling noise now under normal driving.

Bought my car 2020 and every year I have been on and off the shop to fix it. Last year I just paid them to fox my transmission gearing, clutch and axle. The other dY I have them service it again due to power train malfunction. And sent me an invoice of $1700 not including the $195 to diagnostic test for my car.

Ac compressor has gone out 3 times. This car year, make, is known to have this problem.

The weld which attaches the tail pipe to the muffler failed causing the pipe to strike the pavement while the vehicle was in motion which resulted in sparks and potential fire hazard.

The vehicle was purchased on 10/26/22 and the first occurrence of the issue and was reported to Autonation Ford Littleton and was dropped off by 11/02/22. The issue reported was that the engine to the vehicle would shut off and we were unable to turn it back on for a few minutes. This occurred while at a stop light in the middle of traffic. We dropped it off and they were unable to duplicate the issue. I then had the same issue reoccur and it was in the shop from 06/01/23 and the repair order was closed out on 07/31/23. They were unable to duplicate the issue again. We then had it occur again and we dropped the vehicle off on 06/28/25 and did not get it back until 08/19/25. Again, the issue was not able to be duplicated. The vehicle has shut off, and is unable to turn back on for minutes at a time, while we have been at a stop sign, a stop light, in parking lots, and even parked in our garage. The safety concern is sitting with hazards on in the middle of the road at a light surrounded by traffic. Every time it occurs, we call the dealership and set up an appointment. During the wait period, it usually happens 2-3 more times. We opt to not drive it when it begins happening this much. The vehicle has only been inspected by the dealership at this time and there were no warning lights. The engine would shut off and either go to just accessory power or no power at all. Between these repairs there was also a warning that stated: Gear Shift Malfunction. This occurred while I was on the interstate 3 different occasions and I would lose all power. I would have to keep pressing the gas pedal, hoping that it would begin accelerating. This was reported more than once as well and the entire transmission was eventually replaced.

This problem started about 2 months ago and it happened 3 different times so far. While driving, when pressing the gas, the vehicle will all of a sudden not go. You just drift as if the car is not getting gas. On 2 of the occasions, a shift error message appears on the dash but quickly disappears. This can be very dangerous while driving and cause an accident. I have not had the vehicle looked at yet because I feel it should apart of the new recall for the other Ford Explorers.

Manufacture hasn’t made a remedy available for the recall and it’s past its anticipated availability date. Manufacturer Recall Number 24S52 NHTSA Recall Number 24V598

ADAS System malfunctions, 4WD malfunctions, Vehicle will randomly shut off during driving.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon coming to a complete stop at a red traffic light, the vehicle inadvertently shut off in the middle of the roadway and failed to restart. The battery warning light was illuminated. No further information was available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: EA23002(Engine). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was also referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 112,000.

Mileage: 112,000

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while reversing, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle jolted forward while parking. The brakes were locking up. While driving 5 MPH, the steering wheel locked up. The 4-WD fault light was illuminated. The contact stated that the Pre-collision Assist, Hill Assist and Reverse messages were displayed. The contact stated that the failure was related to Technical Service Bulletin: 23-2174. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the AWD actuator was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 89,156.

Mileage: 89,156

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power after coming to a stop. The contact stated that the oil pressure message was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had occurred thirty days after an oil change. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Mileage: 130,000

Fuel purge valve not working properly causing the vehicle to not start after filling with gas, needing to keep vehicle running while filling with gas, safety issue. Turbo faulty causing car to loose power while driving and towing. Safely concern for multiple reasons. Flex exhaust pipe broken and mesh ripped causing burning smell and dangerous debris.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the failure recurred increasingly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the left and right catalytic converters were fractured. The dealer was then notified of the failure and informed the contact that only the left catalytic converter replacement was covered under warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

Mileage: 92,000

Nearly all loss of engine power while driving on on a highway. Ford states these are the necessary repairs. The mechanic supervisor Verbally told me told me possible Engine coolant in cylinders 2 and 3. I requested photos, however none have been provided. I have not approved repairs due to the costs. Total Estimate for repairs is over $15000.00 Ford ecoboost engines have had a lot of recalls, for these same issues on other model Ford engines except the 2.3 liter 2020 Ford Explorer. (Rapid Coolant loss and leaking into the combustion chamber) causing the engine block to damaged. However, no recalls yet on the 2020 Ford Explorer. Cause REPLACE LONGBLOCK DUE TO INTERNAL FAILURE Correction REPLACE ENGINE AND ALL ONE TIME USE PARTS Estimate $ 11,534.51 EITHER PCM, HARNESS OR SENSOR BAD HEATER CIRCUIT OXYGEN SENSOR BANK 1 SENSOR 2 Correction REPLACE O2 SENSOR BROKEN EXHAUST PRESSURE SENSOR Correction REPLACE SENSOR Concern Critical Check Engine Light Is On And Running Rough Cause REPLACE SPARK PLUGS AND RECHECK Correction REPLACE SPARK PLUGS AND RECHECK Approved $ 605.56 Total estimate $ 15,863.61 Manufacturer Recall Issued Recall 23S23 Inoperative Rear 360 Degree Camera With A Blue Screen Imported From Oxlo On 12/18/2024 06:52 Approved No Charge I have not authorized repairs due to the high costs, and lack of guarantee of repair. Plus I'm still making monthly payments for another 15 months. Ford has not acknowledged cylinder manufacturing defects to engine block on the 2020 Ford Explorer. I'm at a loss.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. An abnormal sound was coming from the engine. No warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road where the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the front passenger’s side axle had detached, and the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was provided NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V788000 (Engine). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Mileage: 90,000

The car has 66,311 miles and both catalytic converters are cracked and leaking exhaust into the passenger compartment. The down pipe flex joint on the passenger side is leaking and the one on the driver’s side is deteriorating. Car is currently at the dealership being evaluated. This appears to be a known problem with the 3.0 Ford Explorer in the model years 2020-2022 but no recall has been issued. The problem has been identified by both the dealership and an independent transmission repair shop. There has been no warning lights just strong exhaust smell in passenger compartment when idling at stop signs or lights.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly downshifted and the vehicle jerked with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for further assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 101,400.

Mileage: 101,400

Electrical shorting caused the transmission to improperly shift stalling the vehicle on a highway

I have recently have experienced engine failure with the 2020 Ford Explorer 2.3 ecoboost engine. I was driving on a 4 lane highway, specifically on a bridge, and I experienced loss of power and acceleration. At that time, the engine light came on. I managed to get home, with the vehicle seemed as if in limp mode. I had my vehicle towed to the Ford Dealer ship. The service manager stated that they believe it is complete engine failure. He believes the failure is in the cylinder walls which is due to coolant intrusion in cylinders 2 and 3. His suggestion is to change the "long block" at the costs of $12,284,51. Also, he expressed a concern with the transmission. It might be an issue with the computer, or wire harness. Which would be $1091.81. Plus, a couple sensors, spark plugs. In all The total repair costs are $16,904.16. I owe about $9,500. Prior to this, in 2022 the Turbo went out. It was replaced under the warranty at that time. This was at 90,000 miles. After doing some online research. There has also been a class-action lawsuit involving the 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L EcoBoost engines. Owners of these engines reported issues such as coolant leaks leading to engine overheating and, in some cases, engine failure. The lawsuit claims that Ford was aware of these defects but did not take adequate steps to address them. There are some fantastic videos on youtube that explains and illustrates the reasons for the manufacture defect and engine failure. [XXX] I am a high mileage driver of highways and interstates. I understand that vehicles will have normal wear & tear. I now have 190,000 miles and no longer under warranty. However, based on my investigation, and other similar complaints about the 2020 Explorer with the same or similar issues, I believe there could be a defect with the Cylinder head just like the other ecoboost engines. Other ford explorer owners will likely experience the same as the add miles INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

At only 5 years old and at 113k miles in January 2025 I was told by my local dealership that the right side catalytic converter was cracked and needed replacement to pass inspection. In March 2023 the left side catalytic converter was replaced under a service bulletin 21E11. Prior to that both sides intermediate exhaust pipes and flex connectors were replaced in November 2021. I have searched online and read of many other Ford Explorer ST owners complaining of failed catalytic converters. Ford is doing nothing to address this if the vehicle is outside of the required 80k mile emissions warranty. It seems to me there’s a known problem and this ride side catalytic converter should also be recalled. No catalytic converter should be consistently failing this early in a cars lifespan. Catalytic converters are known to last over 10 years and 300k+ miles. I’ve also seen where the same Ford Explorer but under the Police Interceptor name has had the right side catalytic converter recalled.

There are problems with these items which are covered under a Ford recall. My vehicle is at Liccardi Ford dealer in Watchung NJ and I feel a tremendous resistance from the dealer to repair the recalled ordered repairs.

I have a previous file for this situation already submitted reference # 11626064. Since that filing I have had an additional occurrence of the same description. I also found a recall for 2021 explorers which sounds to be the same as what I have experienced , below is a reference to the 2021 Explorer recall. [XXX] Please confirm if the recall can be updated to include the 2020. Best Regards [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

I was on [SSS], right before [SSS], traveling back from visiting family for the weekend. My vehicle suddenly lost all power while I was in the fast lane doing highway speeds. Luckily I was able to get over to the sliver of shoulder while there was no acceleration and only a brake . Although I was able to turn the vehicle off and start it again to drive from Los Angeles to Sacramento, it was the most frightening moment of my life. I have multiple recalls on this vehicle that have delayed my ability to register it in my state. I do have an open court case with Ford but they have delayed the hearing date to over a year away. 2026. There are multiple issues with this vehicle and I have not been able to drive this SUV comfortably again since my power loss experience. There may be a safety concern for others who have this vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

While driving at highway speeds I have had a engine malfunction warning or a power train warning appear on my dashboard. The vehicle losses power and has a rattling sound when there is a loss of power. The vehicle steers fine but starts to slow down with the engine rpm dropping to zero. After a few seconds of gliding the engine resumes and I have full power. It seems to happen when I try to accelerate to pass. On occasion it has happened with other vehicles being in the lane I intend to move into or with another car following too closely behind me. I have looked on line about this problem and other people have noted the same problem. I brought the car in to Ford service they had the car for a day and ran it without finding anything. I am not surprised as it only happens occasionally. Of course the day after I had the car in for service it happened when I was driving.

We bought this our ST in April and just our luck it has passed the 5-year mark.....no powertrain warranty for us, darn. On Wednesday, during the 30-minute drive home from work, my spouse reported a fault indicator on the dash related to 4WD or AWD being inoperable. This did not trigger the MIL, but diagnostics showed DTC C0631, identified in TSB 23-2114/2174. After a costly fix replacing the FADA with an intermediary shaft, the SUV will no longer be an "Intelligent 4WD" vehicle—seems like creative and false advertising masking a known engineering failure identified by many on the internet [XXX] ). The first sign is a FADA leak. The TSB states that customers can continue to drive, so I took the vehicle for a drive, only to find myself abruptly stalled in traffic after about a mile. I tried to restart the vehicle several times, but nothing happened. After waiting about five minutes and calling my spouse, I tried again and was able to start it. It felt like it was in "limp" mode, as it had issues accelerating, so I slowly drove home. When entering the driveway, the vehicle could barely make it into the parking spot. As I pulled in and applied the parking brake, the vehicle was idling and started squealing so ear-piercingly loud (maybe SSM 51419?) that I was shocked and quickly shut it off. Later, I started the vehicle again and noticed it was knocking now, but the squeal was gone and didn't reproduce. The vehicle was towed to the local Ford dealer, and after reporting my experience and their troubleshooting, I've been given an incredible ~$8,000 estimate for repairs. The technician claims that the VTC phasers, a fix from TSB 23-2058, are the additional corrective action for the stalled engine, lack of power, and engine knock noise. Ford knows the VTC phasers are design flawed, they've redesigned them multiple times; Ford TSBs have been available for this issue on this website for other engine models for over 10 years. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

A couple months ago I started having problems with the turbo kicking out and having no power. I let the vehicle sit for a while before being able to get someone to look at it. Once the mechanic looked at it, it was determined that the catalytic converters were clogged and causing problems with the turbo or engine. The vehicle had started blowing out with smoke from the exhaust at this time also. After having the cats cleaned, the vehicle ran but was still kicking out white smoke. After driving it the first day it was now back to low power and low oil pressure light is kicking in more white smoke was coming out of the exhaust. I parked it 100 miles from home and having it towed for the second time

While driving on an interstate highway, my car slipped from drive to neutral on its own. Within a few seconds the transmission returned to drive. When the car reached its destination, it went into park, but wouldn't shift out of park for 20 minutes. It finally shifted into reverse, and drive as needed until reaching my home. While trying to shut off the car at my home, it showed that it was in park, put the car was rolling. Finally the car stopped rolling and appeared to be in park. The car hasn't been driven since that day. I had the car towed to the local Ford dealer who sold me the car. They determined that the parking pawl malfunctioned and part of it destroyed the transmission. When I researched recalls on this vehicle, I noticed NHTSA Recall #23v-069 appears to be the same problem that I experienced. The Ford dealership said that this recall didn't include my car's VIN #, so that is why I never received any notifications of this recall. I believe that my car should have been included in the recall and I wouldn't be facing an $8,000 + bill for a new transmission. Ford will not pay for the repair because the car has 66,000 miles, which is over the 60,000 limit. The service technician at the dealership said that I did nothing to cause the transmission to be destroyed. This obviously was a very dangerous situation, and this is why there is a recall on 2020 Ford Explorers. I believe that more cars need to be included in this recall.

it is well know fack that rear bolts for axle and all part tend break ford replace them once with what ? bolts that still break so probems was never fix, now as ford did this as was no recall they refuseing replace bolts a 2ed time to fix there error, wich lead to many cars being damage so bad ford has refuse to fix them leaveing the people holding the bag more so when car wreckes, probem is ford and may others are hiding cars throw use of modle number vr ack year that car was made under, 2020 ford expoler made 2019 throw not one 2019 recall was place on this car, ? and why vin is base on modle number not year was made, and your department dose not force these busness to investgate part number in reclall list, parts should not been used in newer cars but was this goneing on more then not, now again i get message replace rear axle bolts only after they brake ONLY AFTER THEY BREAK now they know what will happen if they brake going 70 mpr, this probem was never fix right first time and now again this time ford saying we not going replace bolts , it is time you all step up and find out why this keeps going on why wasent it fix and get fix right, this is huge saft probem, that one can lose a hole tire if more one bolts breaks this has happen, ford and others do not look at part numbers as part there recall process throw part number in the system so if other cars has this probem people has fix it, think change must be made to not only look at vin but part numbers in all recalls regardless of vin or what car if that part is in it should be replace, now i cant explane why ford refuse to not replace such a critcal part this is not just something as lose pice of molding these bolts hold rear end in place and all the bolts prone to breaking, i ask that u look in to why they replace first time and why they must be replace again and force ford to replace these bolts befor some one dies

Car went to dealer for engine noises and was told the motor needed replacement. Was never told what was actually wrong with the car in my paperwork. Then brought to another mechanic and was told the car needed a motor due to a bearing in the lower end had failed. Then noise went away was driving it to another dealer when the motor completely locked up.

Check engine light came on. Code P0161 for O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2. Found massive corrosion at connector. This is the second like make/model/year vehicle we have seen this on. MFG does not have pigtail repair kit available and entire harness would be needed to repair.

I own a 2020 Ford explorer, the catalytic converter failed at approx 100k miles. There is an open recall but my vin is not included and it SHOULD be! The vehicle has been inspected by a dealership and confirmed the catalytic converter is bad. The check engine light is on for the repair. Program #24M01 REPLACE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS IF FAILED AND INSPECT WIRE HARNESS

2020 Explorer VIN: [XXX] Summary [Recall] Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera Description The remedy is under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed june 26, 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. Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov. Read less

2020 Ford Explorer purchased in January 2021. Since owning this vehicle, we have experienced numerous (10+) situations where at a light or entering traffic with our foot on the brake pedal and waiting to proceed the car starts to acerate on its own and jump forward 4'-6' before it stops. I have visited my dealer Jones Ford in Charleston, SC and reported this issue a couple of times over the past few years. As usual they were unable to replicate the issue in shop or find a service code that relates to this problem. On Thursday, [XXX], 2023, while horizontally parking my vehicle in Georgetown, SC in front of an electrical pole (with support wires holding it in place), with my foot on the brake pedal coming to a stop, the engine accelerated and jumped the curb hitting the steel wires causing damage to my front and right side. The following Monday, [XXX] I brought the Explorer into the dealer to investigate the problem since it was still under an extended warranty. After spending a week at the dealer, they return the vehicle unable to find anything wrong and charged me over $200 for a service inspection (Invoice Included). At that point I contacted Ford Customer Service directly and after numerous calls and emails they denied that anything was wrong with my Explorer and closed the case (email included). Since January 2024, I have incurred 5 additional occurrences, and the last one was last week while I was parking the car in reverse...it jumped and struck the parked vehicle behind me. Thank goodness there was no damage to either vehicle. Over the past weekend in continuing to research this problem I came across an AP Article from June 2023 discussing this problem with 2020-22 Ford Explorers (article included). This is why I am lodging this complaint; Ford was well a where of this dangerous situation that my wife and I faced over the years. When the vehicle would accelerate it was very scary, and you honestly were not positive the car would stop. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT

Vehicle caught fire while parked after driving.

The factory welds at passenger outlet on the exhaust broke.

I bought my 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum new in November of 2020--right during the COVID pandemic when businesses weren't opened, so there was no place to go for the largest time. I had already retired from my job of [XXX] years. I have another vehicle, Jeep Wrangler, which I try to drive, too. My Explorer only has 7,818 miles on it and my 2018 Jeep Wrangler has 10,681 miles--the point I'm trying to make is I don't go anyplace that much! I have noticed for quite sometime, my Explorer has a burning smell and the hood and front side would be so hot--it was too hot to touch! I only drive about 9 miles to the local grocery store or Walmart and by the time I get home and pull it in the garage. it's hot and smells light something burning/scorched. I'm afraid it's going to catch on fire and cause my house to burn. About two years ago, I took it over to my dealer which was at that time Bob Bowen Ford in Brazil, IN. The service manager is a dud and doesn't seem to care about troubleshooting problems. They did take the vehicle in their shop and supposedly looked at it but told me it was probably some oil that had spilled over, causing that hot smell. No, that is not the reason. The other day I had the hood up, when the heat or air conditioning is on, it starts throwing out really hot, very hot air. I also want to say the hood does not have a safety latch on it which could be another concern! I also noticed that at the top inside the vehicle, it says the passenger air bag is off. I've tried to figure out how to turn it on, but I can't find any instructions on doing that. Then, of course, like you already know, the recall on the rear camera has not been fixed. I received my letter from Ford dated November 2023, that the parts were available to repair my vehicle. I called my Ford dealer on [XXX] about getting that recall fixed and they said they couldn't get the parts. I'm going to take my Explorer over this week and let them know there is a problem. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO

[XXX] My Ford Explorer had engine failure on the highway, just as I had entered it. The dashboard read powertrain malfunction, engine overheat, and service engine. My vehicle went from 60 mph to almost a complete stop on the highway. I had almost a dozen cars nearly rear end me as this happened. Getting off the road was just as dangerous as it only went 10mph max on the busy highway I was nearly hit several times. The vehicle was taken to an automotive shop for diagnosis. There was oil in the coolant tank and cracked head gasket, needing a new engine. The automotive shop called the ford dealer to confirm it was under warranty and was towed to the dealer at my expense [XXX]. Was told February 9th that parts were ordered for repairs. I asked the service rep Mike for a list of parts being replaced and the cause of the engine failure, he would not give me an answer and said he'd call me back. [XXX] I then asked Crystal R at Ford customer service the same questions, she said she would get back to me [XXX]. As of [XXX] Ford customer service representatives, and employees at Red McCombs Ford have gone no contact with me. 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 while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact had the vehicle towed from the middle of the road to an independent mechanic. The mechanic found that the oil pan was drenched in excess oil indicating a possible oil leak. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine and turbo chargers needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure where it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in any recall. The manufacturer was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 68,000.

Mileage: 68,000

There is an exhaust leak under the car that propagates into the ventilation system and also when a door is open while idling. This is a known issue for some models with the 3.0L engine under emission recall (21E11), but does not include my VIN even though the powertrain is identical. Dealer replaced some flex tubing to try and correct, but that did not work. It's a safety issue because the smell is strong and there's no way to tell how much carbon monoxide is present to the passengers.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle experienced a hard downshift and failed to accelerate as needed. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with catastrophic engine failure. The contact stated that the vehicle remained with the dealer unrepaired due to the cost of the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

January of 2023, 30,000 miles took the car in for oil change and for a complaint of exhaust noise and smell coming from just behind the engine. Dealer checked and stated they found no issues. December of 2023 43,000 miles on a cold day noticed exhaust vapors coming from under the car in the area of the noise. Found the pipes, NMZ-5G203-A and dash -B to be broken at the expandable joints. This corresponds to both my wife and I experiencing head aches/excessive sleepiness while driving long distances. Made an appointment for January 04, 2024 at Tom Peck Ford Clinton WI. The pipes were found defective and replaced at a cost of~$600. Given the left side had a recall on the police version 3.0L, why was a recall not made for the passenger models with the same engine? Have noted the issue reported on the NHTSA sight often. Recall 21E11. Ford also issued a CSP TSB 21B35 which referenced the Police and ST models with the 3.0L engine, but the parts are the same for the Platinum version. Also noted the -B part as now been updated to a dash -C. It is clear from the reports on the NHTSA and various Explorer forums the flexible connection is a failure point that could lead to an accident or death. The is a far more serious issue than the chrome pieces on the window up and down buttons causing some cut fingers. I cannot download the documents or pictures.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle experienced a hard downshift which caused the vehicle to jerk and independently shift into park. The contact smelled an abnormal burning odor. The vehicle lost power motive and stalled. The contact pulled over and was able to restart the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

Mileage: 83,000

Car became unresponsive to accelerator while trying to pass on the freeway, lost speed and had cars around me going 65+ mph, this is not the first time this had happened, have filed several reports and have not heard about a fix to this, getting nervous using this car and I don't know what recourse I have, dealer unable to duplicate the problem and almost got involved in an accident again, please advise. See complaint 11539225, 11533701, 11521566, 11494044

My 2020 Explorer ST has been in the shop off and on for three months. The engine had to be replaced at about 45K miles. The transmission whines. The latest issue occurred while driving in downtown Chicago. I was coming up on a light and moved to the left turn lane to turn into oncoming traffic. When I went to go - I pressed the pedal and nothing happened. I ended up rolling into oncoming traffic when finally, the vehicle responded. On the way home this happened about 10 times on the interstate. It would happen when you quickly decelerate and then accelerate after the transmission downshifted. The loss of responsiveness lasted about 5-10 seconds each time and was accompanied by a loud clicking sound under the vehicle. It is still at the dealership and waiting to hear back from them.

Vehicle would suddenly slam on breaks when breaking and stalled changing gears. We have had it looked at and it is in engine failure - the vehicle is only 3 years old.

Reporting a loss of motive power and loss of transmission torque to the rear wheels from my Explorer that had been remedied with the PCM software update. Experience a surge forward nearly striking another vehicle. Contacted my Ford Dealer who advised that I must wait for a letter and instructions from thereafter. I have several trips planned with family and feel this is unfair ( prolonged fix and intial fix didn't work) and unsafe but I need my vehicle.

The 2020 ford Explorer eco boost limited that we have has had many issues that we are concerned about. Our number one concern is when we accelerate on the freeway to get up to speed we have a rotten eggs/ perm smell. We have taken this into the ford service department and they were able to recreate the smell and had the ford master mechanics look at it. The smell is a sigh of a catalytic converter going out according to other mechanics on other vehicles. They have gave us the excuse that it is the way the vehicle smells when you accelerate. It is a strong odor that makes the passengers in the vehicle verbally ask what is throat smell. My specialty in my career has brought up the question that I don’t know the smell and is it harmful. What could the long term effects have on me and or my family and kids. It’s a very displeasing smell and to hear the ford dealership tell us that it’s just the way the vehicle smells is a little frustrating knowing that we bought a vehicle that may have an issue and is not performing the way it is designed to. Also we have had issues with the electronics in the vehicle where the passenger mirror continues to extend beyond the set position. If you are not paying attention and look to use your mirror while driving you will not be able to see where the mirror is designed to show. Ford after a while of back and forth not wanting to fix it finally fixed it he issue by replacing a new mirror. We have had connection issues from the main computer and our tailgate will randomly open while getting our kids in the car. It has not done it while driving yet but we expect it to. We have taken it in for those reasons but they have not been able to fix it.

While driving around town when I am coming to a stop either at a red light or stop sign or even in the drive through at a restaurant I am getting a message that says "shift to P, then Restart Engine" and then the car just shut's off and I have to put it in park and restart the car. After restarting the car sometimes is very sluggish as if it is not going to get through the intersection or starting from a stop ... this is in my opinion a very serious problem and a safety risk for not just myself and family but that also of the general public.

Vehicle lost power while driving at 75mph on major highway. Received power train malfunction warning light. Had to tow car to dealership and wait 9 days for the service technician to determine a repair. Now my parking brake light keeps coming on.

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at approximately 55 MPH, there was a beeping sound for the Hill Start Assist warning Power Train collision assist not available. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the axle disconnect actuator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Mileage: 90,000

While slowing down the car feels like the engine shakes and when I start to drive jumps when I accelerate also when I’m on brake it also starts to jump maybe transmission or engine problems

I had the driver side catalytic converter replaced under recall , I notice that the passenger side catalytic converter has a crack at welding point i notice this do to black exhaust leak crack shows black powder from exhaust marks on crack

Faulty exhaust downpipe. Vehicle made loud rattling by catalytic converter, upon investigation the downpipe exhaust hanger rod had broke off due to vibrations in the flex pipe. Ford has an issue with the flex pipe in which it is to weak and will shake the downpipe during idle or acceleration. Ford had issued a factory fix for the downpipe; however, it doesn't fully fix the flex pipe vibration issue. My flex pipe shake so violently that it broke the metal exhaust hanger rod by the catalytic converter. Without the hanger support further shake could result in cracking along the exhaust/catalytic converter. This could result to exhaust fumes being ventilated into the passage side of the car. This could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. As a pilot, they always teach us to check the exhaust for cracks and teach awareness due to the exhaust being near the cabin. Fords fix is to place a hose clamp which doesn't work. Multiple explorer forums have reported this issue. Fords solution to it is to replace it with the same part. Not sure how that will fix the issue if your replacing a defective designed part with another defective design part. I have attached photos of the snapped hanger and hanger location.

This is my third complaint regarding the same issue, driving on the freeway today the gas pedal was not responsive leading to a drop of speed almost getting hit from behind, don't know what to do, I'm getting nervous to use my car because the problem comes with no notice (see complaint [XXX], [XXX] and [XXX] ) hopefully I will not get in a serious accident before something is done. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

1. The Explorer spontaneously went on fire while being driven damaging the entire front of the vehicle 2. The vehicle could have exploded affecting other vehicles as well as injured or killed the driver and passenger 3. No. Insurance Company immediately declared vehicle totaled. 4. No. Once again, vehicle was immediately declared a total loss and assigned salvage company to take possession 5. No warnings. First sign of anything wrong was flames coming from under the hood

Cars jerking while upshifting or downshifting at regular speed.

The component that has failed is on the exhaust listed as the flexible exhaust pipe assemble part N1MZ5G203A. The part has no visual damage but consistently rattles while idle. The vehicle has been well taken care of but the part appears to be defective. This appears to be the same issue as NHTSA Technical Bulletin 20-2282. There are no safety concerns at this point. The vehicle has been inspected by Capital Ford in Charlotte North Carolina. There has been a Ford customer experience associate assigned to the case who has reviewed the dealerships diagnostic of the issue. Ford has offered to pay for the part but not the labor required to install the part. There were no warning signs/lamps/indicators notifying of the underlying issue.

There seems to be a recurring issue with Explorer ST vehicles burning excessive oil upon start-up. In my situation, I have seem my oil levels drop after 5,000 miles. In some reported cases the constant consumption of oil has caused catastrophic engine failure while driving. A similar issue has also been reported on Ford F-150 trucks with the 2.7l turbo. There appears to be a fix for this that requires a oil feed line from the block to the turbo unit to be replaced (newly designed oil feed line) but Ford has not issued any recalls or repair notices for the 2020 Explorer ST's that experience a similar problem.

Previously filed reports 11521566 and 11494044, stating problem with no response from the accelerator pedal, it happened several times again, at different speeds and different driving modes, should I wait to be involved in an accident to sue the company directly or what other recourse do I have? Have taken the car different times and mentioned the problem but they say "we found nothing wrong" the car is out of warranty now and have seen reports of transmission problems that should have caused a recall.

I had an oil change at the Feldman Ford Dealership on or around 3/7/2023. On 4/14/2023 at or at round 5-6 pm; I was traveling southbound on I-75 when my 2020 Explorer suddenly slowed down from 70 miles per hour to around 40 miles per hour while I’m in the farthest lane and it wouldn’t go pass 45 miles per hour almost causing the vehicle behind to rear end me. The dash displayed a reading stating the oil pressure is low and to get engine serviced. I put on my hazards and safely made it to exit off of the freeway. I stopped at a gas station because the engine was making a loud screaming noise. I called my salesman from Feldman Ford and explained what was happening and what the dash was saying so he asked me to shut off the engine and to check the oil. So when I opened the hood I saw oil everywhere and the engine was so hot that the heat was burning my face. The dipstick was indicating that the oil was low to empty. He stated that’s impossible you just had an oil change 4-5 weeks ago and the engine appears that it’s not cooling. So he advised me to put in 2-3 quarts and get on my knees to see if any oil is leaking underneath and there was no leak after I put in 3 quarts of oil. So he asked how far was i from home i told him no more than 15 minutes, then he asked me to start the car to see if the noise diminished and it was not as loud so he said to see if I could get the car home because I had my 1 month old grandson and my daughter with me and he will have a tow truck to come and get it. I made it a block from my home then the car shut off and wouldn’t start. So I had family to come get my daughter and grandson and I stayed with the vehicle until 930/10 pm when the tow truck arrived and my vehicle has been at the Feldman Ford service lot ever since 4/14/2023 and it has not been fixed or worked on. I was told that the oil pump failed causing 2 or 3 seals to go bad in the back and front of the motor. The Ford app displayed engine issues 2 months prior to my purchase.

For months our backup camera would turn blue and not show the rear cameras. Also during this time, on occasion the emergency braking would stop us from backing up and then the brakes would not work. We had a recall on the blue screen software but the breaking has started again.

On multiple occassions while driving, the accelerator/gas pedal looses functionality. For example, while coasting into a turn and needing to accelerate, the engine is completely unresponsive. The pedal can be against the floor and the vehicle does not respond. We have brought the issue to two Ford dealer's attention during routine maintenance and have been told that there are no stored codes in the system and that bad gas is the culprit as they were unable to replciate the issue during their brief test drives. Each time this has occured it has been with different (top tier) gas. One one occasion, I found that fully releasing the accelerator for several seconds then pressing it down it can engage. On a second occasion, I shifted to neutral and then back to drive for it to engage. On a third occasion, I shifted the drive mode to engage the accelerator. This issues seems to be a major safety issue that should have a better response than "bad gas." Especially when crossing an intersection with children in the car.

engine does not respond when trying to pass slower traffic, press the gas pedal several times with no response, car started to slow down with fast traffic behind/sides on the freeway, took more than 20 seconds to respond to gas pedal input almost causing an accident

Sudden unintended acceleration when parking; vehicle stopped with brake depressed. Vehicle suddenly accelerated and steering wheel jerked back and forth with no driver input resulting in an collision with an unoccupied parked car. No injuries. Insurance adjuster stated that Dealer found no evidence of equipment malfunction. A police report was filed (military police aboard a military base), report is pending as requires FOIA. No warning lamps or messages or other symptoms prior to failure.

The wiring harness in the back for the air was installed upside down, making the hot cold and the cold hot The vent in the ceiling that distributes air was kinked and had to be replaced The seatbelt on the drive side second row bucket seat was installed upside down The heater core had to replaced due to heat not blowing hot, still not and car was returned a second time Found out upon calling Ford that the car had two transmissions repairs by the previous owner and another "additional repair" done in 2022, would not disclose to me. I informed them the dealership gave me clean car facts. Car has less than 28,000 miles on it. I have had it less than ONE month.

When stopped at a light the engine suddenly accelerated forcing a hard braking action to prevent an accident. after 2-3 seconds it went to idle still in gear. This has happened 3 times the third time 2 witnesses said that it was not caused by braking with their foot on the accelerator. In reviewing the three episodes I noted that the air-conditioned switch was engaged all three times when this uncommand occurred. This never occurred when the car was moving only at a stop. It seems that the air conditioner was called to turn on by the body control module which cause the engine RPM to decrease which cause the power train control module to react increasing the demand to the throttle body which either stuck high or was over commanded in not reacting in a fast enough manner to satisfy the power train control module. When this occured I thought we were going to hit the car in front of us. I think this is correctable with some changes in the power train control module programing.

I parked my vehicle 2/17/2023 around 9:45pm in the parking garage of my Condominium for the night. I was awakened Saturday morning 2/18/2023 by the building fire alarm and my neighbors banging on the doors to get outside because smoke was visible from the side of the building. I exited the building and crossed the street. The entire parking garage was filled with thick black smoke. The sprinkler system had activated and the Fire Dept arrived. Through the smoke I was able to see that my 2020 Ford Explorer Limited Edition was on fire. The front end was engulfed in flames which were now shooting up the side of the building and the ceiling of the parking garage.

Vehicle is pre owned and had been driving fine since I’ve owned it from 8/2021 the vehicle had 9000 miles on it when I purchased it. While driving, the vehicle randomly made some noises from the engine compartment but no warning lights I stopped at a red light and when I took off it started to sound like a screatching from the engine then the low oil pressure light came on I immediately pulled over and shut the vehicle off. The next day I had the vehicle towed to a Ford dealership I got a call from them that there is a lot of metal shavings in the engine oil and filter and that this had been going on for a long time and they aren’t sure when it started. The vehicle currently has 27000 miles on it and has had 3 oil changes while I owned it at both Belle Tire and a Ford dealership. The dealership currently still has my vehicle with no information nor update going on 3 weeks.

Car did not respond to accelerator while driving on the freeway causing the car to decelerate on traffic creating a dangerous situation, other cars honked and swerved around

Transmission is skipping when put into different gears

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while shifting into reverse the Back Over Prevention screen failed to operate as designed. Additionally, the vehicle would respond without the accelerator pedal being depressed. The contact also stated that while driving 35 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance warning system activated while there was no vehicle nearby. The contact stated that the vehicle was sputtering. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the technician informed the contact that the brake assist was unavailable. The technician was unable to duplicate the failure with the Forward Collision Avoidance system. The vehicle was currently being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 4,000.

Mileage: 4,000

The contact owned a 2020 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 15 mph, the vehicle began to decelerate its speed on its own. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park on the side of the road and saw fire located on the front passenger side wheel. The contact, his wife, and grandson were able to safely exit the vehicle before the vehicle was engulfed by the fire. The contact stated no one was injured nor sought medical attention. The fire department extinguished the fire and filed a fire report. A police report was filed. The insurance company deemed the vehicle total loss. The contact towed the vehicle to towing lot. The contact drive to the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

Mileage: 30,000

Vehicle stalled on interstate on my way home from picking it up. Had been at dealer for nearly a month for heater repair. Cost me $250 to get it towed back to dealer. Very dangerous situation. I was lucky to be able to get it oof the travel lanes before someone rear ended me at high speed. Very frightening.

Twice now my car has felt like it has stalled. Once I was at a stop light, the light was red so I stopped. Then when the light turned green I accelerated, the car moved slightly and then stalled. Pedal to the floor and nothing happened. Nothing in the car indicated why this happened. The car was on and ready to go but the petal or engine didn't work. Not sure what happened. The second time it happened I was trying to make a turn from a stop. I accelerated, the car moved a bit then stopped. I was pulling onto a 55 mph road and I was just sitting there. Car was fine, running and seemed to be in working condition but it stalled on me. Pedal to the floor, no response from the car. I have an appointment on Tuesday April 12th to take the car in to speak with the service department. I have spoken to other 6th generation ford explorer owners that have stated the same thing has happened and the service department had no answer for them. I am hoping if enough of us submit an issue it will get investigated preventing a fetal crash.

Has burning smell of wires when heat is on, only has heat on drivers side, blows cold air on passenger side, had Avis Ford Dealership look at it, said it was the heater core and they don't know when it will be in stock.

A police officer dropped this SUV off complaining of an exhaust smell coming through the vents in the vehicle. upon opening the hood ,a strong odor off exhaust from the right side of the motor could be smelled .No visible leaks or sounds were noticed. The vehicle remained out of service until our local Ford dealer could service this vehicle.

Inlet exhaust leak and rattle, the vehicle sounds like a diesel truck. Transmission jerking into out of third gear.

THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSION. VEHICLE WAS STUCK IN FIRST GEAR. TURNED VEHICLE OFF AND THEN BACK ON 3 TIMES WITH NO RESOLUTION. ON ANOTHER ATTEMPT THE VEHICLE SEEMED TO BE STUCK IN THIRD GEAR.

STEERING WHEEL SHAKES AND ENGINE SOUNDS AS IT IS GOING TO STALL AT SPEEDS BETWEEN, 35 AND 45 MPH. FORD HAD VEHICLE FOR TWO WEEKS TOTAL AND CONFIRMED ISSUES. THEY DID NOT KNOW HOW TP FIX. THEY SAID VEHICLE IS WITHIN SPECIFICATIONS'

Mileage: 8,000

THE VEHICLE WILL JUST SHUT OFF AT ANYTIME. IT'S NOT THE AUTO START FEATURE, ALL POWER WILL TURN OFF AT ANYTIME. IT HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES WHILE DRIVING WAITING AT A RED LIGHT OR TO MAKE A TURN. IT ALWAYS HAPPENS WHILE DRIVING IN THE CITY.

Mileage: 7,150

THE TRANSMISSION ON THE VEHICLE STARTED GOING OUT AS WE WERE DRIVING BACK FROM AN OUT OF TOWN TRIP ON A HIGHWAY. MY HUSBAND MADE A STOP AT A LIGHT AND UPON ACCELERATING AFTER THE STOP, THE VEHICLE MADE A GRINDING SOUND AND BEGAN HAVING ENGINE ISSUES. WE MADE AN APPOINTMENT AT THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP WHERE MY HUSBAND DROVE THE VEHICLE ON CITY STREETS DUE TO HIGH RPMS DESPITE LOW SPEED. THE VEHICLE IS AT THE DEALERSHIP AS OF MONDAY FEBRUARY 8TH AND WE HAVE BEEN TOLD PARTS ARE ON BACK ORDER WITH NO ETA. THE VEHICLE DOES HAVE A RECALL FOR A TRANSMISSION INTERCOOLER. WE HAVE READ ABOUT THIS ISSUE IN NUMEROUS 2020 FORD EXPLORERS.

Mileage: 5,700

THIS PARTICULAR PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED ON MORE THAN ONE OCCASION, MOST RECENTLY TODAY (JANUARY 30, 2021). WHILE DRIVING AND THEN ACCELERATING, THE CAR SPUTTERED AND ALMOST DIED. WE WERE PULLING INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND NEEDED TO ACCELERATE. WE PUSHED ON THE ACCELERATOR AND THE CAR MADE A SOUND AS IF IT WOULD SPEED UP, INSTEAD IT STALLED. (A MESSAGE FLASHED ON THE SCREEN, BUT IT WAS TOO QUICK FOR ME TO READ.) WE WERE ALMOST HIT BY A CAR BEFORE WE WERE ABLE TO PULL INTO A PARKING LOT. WE TURNED OFF THE CAR AND DROVE AROUND FOR A FEW MINUTES. WE WENT TO PULL BACK OUT ONTO THE STREET AND ACCELERATE WHEN IT SPUTTERED AND STALLED. WE TURNED THE CAR OFF AND SAT. WE WERE LUCKY WE WERE NOT ON A HIGHWAY OR BUSIER STREET.

Mileage: 11,000

I HAVE A 2020 EXPLORER LIMITED EDITION, WITH JUST OVER 10,000 MILES. SINCE I GOT IT, I NOTICED THAT SHIFTING FROM 2-4 GEAR WAS PRETTY ROUGH, AND JERKY. ABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO, I LEFT THE DRIVEWAY, HEARD A THUD WHEN I PUT IT IN D, AND IT DIDN'T MOVE. I HIT THE GAS HARDER, AND IT MOVED, BUT WOULD NOT LEAVE 1ST GEAR. GOT A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. TURNED IT OFF, WAITED A WHILE, TRIED IT AGAIN, AND IT DROVE FINE, BUT CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS STILL ON. THE CAR DROVE FINE FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT OFF THE NEXT DAY. 2 WEEKS LATER, I TOOK IT OUT OF THE DRIVE, PUT IT IN DRIVE AND AGAIN, IT WOULDN'T LEAVE FIRST GEAR. PUT THE CAR BACK IN THE GARAGE, WAITED A WHILE, AND IT WAS FINE. CALLED THE DEALER, AND SCHEDULED AN APPT BECAUSE I CAN'T HAVE THESE SERIOUS ISSUES CONTINUE. MY CONCERN WAS THAT THEY WON'T BE ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE ISSUE, AND JUST SEND ME ON MY WAY. NEEDLESS TO SAY, THEY RAN SEVERAL DIAGNOSTICS TESTS, AND FOUND SOME ISSUES/CODES. THEY PERFORMED A PINPOINT TEST TRACE AND FOUND CODES P062C, P2242. THEY THEN PERFORMED TSB 20-2217 AGAIN, AND THE CODES WERE CLEAR. FOR A SHORT TIME AFTER, THE JERKINESS IN THE SHIFTING OF THE GEARS WENT AWAY, HOWEVER THAT HAS SINCE RETURNED. STOPPING AND STARTING, AND DRIVING ESPECIALLY IN NEIGHBORHOODS, IS VERY FRUSTRATING. IT IS UNCOMFORTABLE TO SAY THE. LEAST, THE VERY AGGRESSIVE SHIFTING, AND JERKING OF THE VEHICLE AT LOW SPEEDS. I HAVE NOT YET HAD THE SAME ISSUE WHERE THE VEHICLE REFUSED TO CHANGE GEARS, OR WAS STUCK WITHOUT MOVING, HOWEVER THE TRANSMISSION AS A WHOLE IS VERY PROBLEMATIC, AND SOMEWHAT SCARY TO DRIVE.

Mileage: 8,000

2020 FORD EXPLORER XLT PURCHASED NEW FROM DEALER 04/2020. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS THE STARTER WOULD NOT ACTIVATE TO START THE CAR. WHEN THE BRAKE IS DEPRESSED THE STARTER BUTTON AND EXTERIOR LIGHTS FLASH. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE FORD DEALER, BUT THE CAR STARTED IMMEDIATELY ACCORDING TO TECHNICIAN. NO ISSUES WERE FOUND. ON THE SECOND OCCASION, THE ISSUE RESOLVED SPONTANEOUSLY AS WELL. SINCE I AM NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM WITH ANY REGULARITY, THERE IS NO SENSE IN TAKING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. IN BOTH INSTANCES THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT WITH THE ENGINE TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 10K ON IT.

Mileage: 4,000

ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP CAME ON 10/15/20 WHILE DRIVING.. IT WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS A THERMOSTAT PROBLEM WHICH COULD WAIT UNTIL THERE WAS A LONER CAR AVAILABLE. ON 10/20/20 WHILE DRIVING 70 MILES /HR, THE ENGINE COOLANT OVER TEMPERATURE CAME ON AND IT WENT INTO A POWERED DOWN REPORTED FAIL SAFE MODE RUNNING ON 5 CYLINDERS . THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TRANSPORTED BACK TO THE DEALER AND NOW I AM BEING TOLD IT IS A WIRE HARNESS WHICH HAS TO BE REPLACED AND THERE WAS NO ENGINE OVERHEAT OR DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. WAITING FOR IT TO BE REPLACED.

Mileage: 6,000

THERE ARE MANY ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE. THE FIRST ISSUE IS THAT WATER IS COMING INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND POOLING UP ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR. THE SECOND ISSUE IS WATER INSIDE THE PASSENGER TAILLIGHT. THE THIRD ISSUE IS THE ALLWHEEL DRIVE SENSOR IS MALFUNCTIONING. THE FOURTH AND LAST ISSUE WITH THE VEHICLE IS THAT THE CONVERTER IS CRACKED ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND EXHAUST FUMES ARE COMING INTO THE CABIN AND IS MAKING THE PASSENGERS SICK. THIS IS AFTER FORD HAD REPLACED THE MOTOR AT 12,000 MILES BECAUSE CYLINDER TWO MALFUNCTIONED.

Mileage: 12,000

CAR WAS IN DRIVE OR REVERSE BUT WOULD NOT MOVE, LIKE THE GEARING WAS NOT ENGAGED. PRESSED ON GAS IT FINALLY TOOK OFF ALMOST HITTING ANOTHER CAR. TOOK TO FORD, THEY FIXED SO THEY SAY, BUT IT HAS HAPPENED 4 MORE TIMES. YESTERDAY, WAS IN PARKING LOT AND PUT IN REVERSE AND TOOK OFF. WHEN IT IS ACTING UP, THE TRANSMISSION SOUNDS LIKE IT CLUNKS OR GONNA FALL OUT. BACK UP CAMERA IS STILL NOT WORKING AND CAN NOT SEE BEHIND YOU OR WHEN YOU ARE GOING TO HIT SOMETHING.

Mileage: 200

RECEIVED MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP- REGULATORY

Mileage: 12,100

TRIED TO START THE CAR AND WOULD NOT START. THE SCREEN ON DASH BOARD WENT CRAZY AND EVERYTHING WAS FLASHING. HEAD LAMPS CAME ON AND AIR BLOWER FOR HEAT CAME ON HIGH AUTOMATICALLY. SEEMED LIKE SOME KIND OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. THE DASH WAS FLASHING EVERYTHING AND WOULD NOT START THE CAR. WAITING FOR THE TOW TRUCK FOR 2 HOURS AND I TRIED AGAIN AND IT STARTED JUST FINE. BROUGHT THE CAR HOME BUT CAN NOT DUPLICATED THE PROBLEM. THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH IT. I TAKE 5 BOYS FOR FOOTBALL PRACTICE AND DON'T WANT THIS CAR TO LET ME AND THOSE BOYS SITTING IN THE DARK..THIS IS WHY I BOUGHT A NEW CAR SO IT WOULD BE MORE DEPENDABLE. IT WOULD NOT ALLOW ME TO START IT AND THE WHOLE DASH WAS GOING CRAZY AND FLASHING MANY THINGS . HOPE THIS HELPS.

Mileage: 5,761

I HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE SINCE FEBRUARY AND IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP 5 TIMES FOR VARIOUS THINGS! THERE IS A JOLT WHEN IT CHANGES GEARS AND WHEN HITTING BRAKES. I HAVE A DELAY WHEN I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE WHICH HAS ALMOST CAUSED ACCIDENTS. IT ROLLS FORWARD, EVEN WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND THE JERKS HARD WHEN IT FINALLY CATCHES UP AND GOES IN REVERSE. CORPORATE WILL NOT GET ME OUT OF THIS VEHICLE, EVEN AFTER IT BROKE DOWN AND HAD TO BE TOWED WHILE I WAS OUT OF STATE ON VACATION!

Mileage: 9,000

PURCHASED FORD EXPLORER ST IN SEPT 2019 AND WINDSHIELD WAS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED. TOOK MULTIPLE RIPS TO DEALERSHIP TO CORRECT. AND IT IS STILL NOT PROPERLY FIXED. THEY HAD TO REINSTALL WINDSHIELD AND PASSENGER SIDE PILLAR. THE ELECTRICALLY CONNECTIVITY WITH SYNC 3 HAS NEVER WORKED PROPERLY. I HAVE BEEN TO DEALERSHIP MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEY COULD NTO FIX IT. THEN I WENT TO START THE CAR (EARLY IN MORNING) AND 3 DIFFERENT TIMES WHITE SMOKE CAME BILLOWING FROM EXHAUST. THE FIRST TIME I SHUT OFF THE CAR THINKING IT WAS ON FIRE. THE SECOND TIME, IT DISSIPATED QUICKLY. THE THIRD TIME, I DROVE TO DEALERSHIP. THEY COULD NOT FIX IT. 5 DAYS LATER MORE WHITE SMOKE WHEN I STARTED IT, AND THE ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. AFTER 7 DAYS AT THE DEALERSHIP, THEY REPLACED A ECT SENSOR. STILL PENDING TO SEE IF A 'SENSOR' CAUSES BILLOWING WHITE SMOKE FROM EXHAUST. DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO CHECK HEAD GASKETS, CYLINDER HEAD, OR ENGINE BLOCK WHICH ARE THE MAIN SOURCES FOR WHITE SMOKE. THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS. SUCH A FRUSTRATING TURN OF EVENTS THAT CONTINUE.

Mileage: 126

I WAS DRIVING GOING TO GET FOOD AND WHEN I PRESS ON MY BREAK TO SLOW DOWN, I HAD A HUGE JOLT, LIKE IT WAS SHIFTING GEARS NOT CORRECTLY(IT'S AN AUTOMATIC)THE JOLT WOULD OCCUR WHEN I WOULD HIT OVER 46MPH AND WHEN I WOULD SLOW DOWN TO 26MPH. I BROUGHT MY EXPLORER TO THE DEALERSHIP AND I HAD TO HAVE MY TRANSMISSION REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP.I HAVE HEARD OF 3 OTHER PEOPLE WHO HAD A FORD EXPLORER 2020 THIS HAPPENED TO!

Mileage: 1,100

2020 FORD EXPLORER ST WITH APPROXIMATELY 1,927 MILES. I STARTED THE VEHICLE AND PUT IT INTO DRIVE AND IT STARTED TO ROLL FORWARD EVEN THOUGH MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE. REGARDLESS OF HOW HARD I PUSHED THE BRAKE, THE CAR CONTINUED TO INCH FORWARD UNTIL I FULLY DEPRESSED/REPRESSED THE BRAKE. I SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE, WAITED A FEW MINUTES, AND ATTEMPTED TO RESTART. UPON THE ATTEMPTED RESTART, ALL LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD BEGAN FLASHING AND THE ENGINE FAILED TO TURNOVER. THE IN-DASH DISPLAY THEN BEGAN BEEPING, FLASHING SERVICE/HAZARD/WARNING INDICATORS, AND CYCLING THROUGH THE FOLLOWING ERROR MESSAGES: -PARK BRAKE FAULT SERVICE NOW; -PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE; -SERVICE ADVANCETRAC; -DRIVER DOOR AJAR; -STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED; -CHECK PARK AID; -SEE MANUAL; -FRONT CAMERA FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED; -FULL ACCESSORY POWER ACTIVE; I TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTED A FEW MORE RESTARTS RANGING IN INTERVALS FROM AN IMMEDIATE START/STOP, 1 MINUTE, 5 MINUTES, AND 10 MINUTES WITHOUT SUCCESS (SAME ERROR MESSAGES DISPLAYED AS DESCRIBED ABOVE). THERE WERE ALSO NO ALERT MESSAGES/NOTIFICATION IN THE FORDPASS MOBILE APP INDICATING THE ABOVE FAILURES. MY NEXT ATTEMPT WAS A FEW HOURS LATER AND THE VEHICLE STARTED WITHOUT ERROR, BUT DID NOT GIVE ANY INDICATION THAT THE VEHICLE HAD FAILED TO START THE PREVIOUS TIME. I STOPPED/RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AGAIN WITHOUT ERROR AND PUT IT INTO REVERSE AND THEN DRIVE AND THERE DID NOT APPEAR TO BE ANY FAILURE OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. I TOOK THE VEHICLE FOR A TEST DRIVE AROUND MY NEIGHBORHOOD AND NOTICED THAT 1ST AND 2ND GEAR APPEARED TO SHIFT JUST FINE, 3RD GEAR MADE A LOUD GRINDING/VIBRATING NOISE AND TOOK LONGER TO SHIFT THAN NORMAL, AND THEN THE VEHICLE DID A HARD SHIFT INTO 4TH GEAR. I ONLY GOT UP TO ABOUT 35 MILES PER HOUR, BUT THE VEHICLE NEVER SHIFTED OUT OF 4TH GEAR, BUT APPEARED TO HOLD THE RPMS HIGHER THAN NORMAL.

Mileage: 1,927

ON SUNDAY, JUNE 14TH, 2020 AT 12:10 PM, I WAS HEADED EAST BOUND ON A TWO LANE STATE ROAD WITH DOUBLE YELLOW LINES. MY VEHICLE (NEW FORD EXPLORER ST, 2407 MILES ON ODOMETER) WAS ON INTELLIGENT CRUISE CONTROL SET FOR 37 MPH AND IN 'NORMAL DRIVE' MODE. WITHOUT ANY WARNING, THE ENGINE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN. THE ENGINE APPEARED TO BE RUNNING BUT WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP ABOUT 300 FEET FROM WHERE THE PROBLEM STARTED. THE ENGINE WAS STALLED AND WOULD NOT START. NO WARNING LIGHTS OR MESSAGES. CALLED AAA AND THEY CALLED LOCAL POLICE. AN OFFICER DIRECTED TRAFFIC AS I WAS BLOCKING THE RIGHT HAND LANE. THERE WAS NO SHOULDER TO PULL OFF ON. ROAD WAS IN RESIDENTIAL AREA WITH CURBS. A FLAT BED TOW TRUCK ARRIVED AT 12:35 PM AND TOWED THE VEHICLE TO MY LOCAL FORD DEALER. FAULT CODE SHOWED A DEFECTIVE CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR. THERE ALSO IS EVIDENCE THAT THE TIMING BELT HAS SLIPPED. SCORING CAN BE SEEN ON TOP OF #6 PISTON THROUGH BORESCOPE. THE #6 SPARK PLUG SHOWS IMPACT DAMAGE FROM PISTON. BATTERY IS DRAINING AND CAR IS GOING INTO SLEEP MODE. SERVICE DEPARTMENT MANAGER STATED THE ENGINE WILL LIKELY REQUIRE REPLACEMENT. THE DEALERSHIP CONTACTED FORD ENGINEERING AND ESTABLISHED A CASE NUMBER. DEALERSHIP IS WORKING WITH FORD ENGINEERING TO DETERMINE THE ROOT CAUSE OF FAILURE. A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE OF THIS TYPE IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND LIFE THREATENING. THREE DAYS EARLIER, A 140 MILE ROUND TRIP WAS MADE TO BOSTON WITHOUT INCIDENT. IF THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED ON I-93 TRAVELING AT 70 MPH, THE END RESULT COULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS.

Mileage: 2,407

I WAS DRIVING TO WORK AND SUDDENLY HEARD A STRANGE SOFT REPETITIVE NOISE. THERE WERE NO INDICATOR LIGHTS/WARNINGS ON THE DASH. I WAS GOING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH AND THANKFULLY DECIDED TO PULL OVER INTO THE SERVICE LANE. THE VEHICLE STRUGGLED TO PULL OVER AND THEN STOPPED MOVING. AN ENGINE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT THEN CAME ON. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY THE DEALERSHIP. I WAS TOLD LATER THAT DAY THAT THE ENGINE WAS END OF LIFE, IN OTHER WORDS, DEAD. MY 2020 EXPLORER HAD 7,038 MILES. I FINALLY GOT MY SUV BACK 1 MONTH LATER. *TR

Mileage: 7,038

FALSE ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE ALARM ISSUE - VEHICLE BELIEVES IT IS OVERHEATING WHEN IT ISN'T. THIS RESULTS IN THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, WHERE THE VEHICLE IS UNABLE TO DRIVE FASTER THAN 50MPH AND IS EXTREMELY SLOW TO ACCELERATE CAUSING A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD. THIS HAS OCCURRED ON MY EXPLORER ST MODEL 3 DIFFERENT TIMES ALL WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE SECOND TIME WHILE I WAS TRYING TO MERGE ONTO THE FREEWAY AND NEARLY COLLIDED WITH A SEMI TRUCK SINCE I LOST ALL ABILITY TO ACCELERATE. ALL TIMES THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. MY VEHICLE HAS CURRENTLY BEEN WAITING FOR REPAIR FOR OVER 30 DAYS & ONLY HAS 13,000 MILES ON IT.

Mileage: 12,020

WHEN TRYING TO MOVE THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK, EITHER REVERSE OR DRIVE THE VEHICLE JERKS INTO GEAR HARD AND THEN STALLS. TRIED MULTIPLE TIMES TO GET THE VEHICLE OUT OF THE DRIVE WAY STARTS UP NO ISSUE, NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT YET KEEPS STALLING. THIS IS NEW OWNED FOR 3 DAYS WITH LESS THAN 200 MILES ON IT.

Mileage: 180

PURCHASED A 2020 EXPLORER ON FEB 11, NOTICED SMOKE FROM THE HOOD RIGHT WHEN I ARRIVED HOME FROM THE DEALER, CONTACTED THEM AND THEY SAID IT MIGHT BE NORMAL FOR A NEW VEHICLE TO HAVE SOME SMOKE IN THE BEGINNING, LATER I NOTICED THAT THE INTERIOR HEAT IS ONLY BLOWING COLD AIR SO I WAS ABOUT TO TAKE IT TO THE NEAREST DEALER TO CHECK IT OUT, I REMOTE STARTED THE CAR THROUGH THE OFFICIAL FORDPASS APP AND THEN 10 MINUTES LATER I ENTERED THE CAR AND THE ENGINE LIGHT AND THE COOLANT LIGHT WAS ON BEFORE I EVEN STARTED DRIVING (CAR HAS 78 MILES ON IT) , ( I ALSO GOT 2 NOTIFICATIONS FROM THE APP THAT THE ENGINE IS OVERHEATING) SO I CALLED FORD TO TOW IT, NOW ITS SITTING BY FORD SERVICE FOR 2 DAYS AND THEY ARE SAYING THAT IT'S A COOLANT LEAK BUT THEY DON'T KNOW WHERE IT LEAKS TO AND THEY ARE WAITING TO HEAR BACK FROM FORD ENGINEERS ON HOW TO PROCEED, IT SEEMS LIKE FORD MAY HAVE SERIOUS ISSUES WITH THE ENGINE COOLANT SYSTEM AND THIS IS POTENTIALLY PUTTING ANY EXPLORER DRIVER AT RISK OF THE VEHICLE STALLING WHILE DRIVING, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY

Mileage: 78

VEHICLE STALLED WHEN PULLING OUT FROM A STOP LIGHT ONTO A HIGHWAY (65MPH). IT TOOK SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE ONCE PUT IN DRIVE JERKED FORWARD/BACKWARD WHEN I HIT THE GAS. THE RPMS WENT UP BUT THE CAR WAS NOT DRIVING WELL. IT STALLED AGAIN. I HAD TO REPEAT THIS PROCESS 4 MORE TIMES. IT FINALLY BEGAN TO DRIVE AND THEN THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE FORD PASS APP GAVE ME AN ERROR CODE. MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP. THE VEHICLE HAS 109 MILES. THE CAR IS WITH THE DEALER LESS THAN 2 DAYS AFTER PURCHASE.

Mileage: 109

MY BRAND NEW 2020 FORD EXPLORER PLATINUM TOP OF LINE MODEL (VIN [XXX]) BROKE DOWN ON CHRISTMAS EVE 2019 AFTER A COMPLETE ENGINE SEIZURE WITH LESS THAN 2000 MILES AND LEFT US STRANDED WITH MY FAMILY FOR HOURS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER AND CONTROL AND HAD THIS HAPPENED ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY DOING 80 MILES PER HOUR THE RESULT COULD HAVE BEEN CATASTROPHIC AND POTENTIALLY FATAL. IT HAS BEEN AT THE DEALERSHIP SINCE AND I AM BEING TOLD IT NEEDS A NEW ENGINE BUT FORD CANNOT PROVIDE A DATE WHEN THE ENGINE WILL BE AVAILABLE. REMEMBER....THIS VEHICLE WAS ONLY A MONTH OLD! A 2020 VEHICLE BROKE DOWN IN 2019!!! THE DEALERSHIP IS BEING FANTASTIC AND TRYING TO SWAP THE VEHICLE OUT FOR ME BUT FORD HAS DENIED THEIR REQUEST. I FINALLY SPOKE WITH A FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE REP ([XXX]) AND SHE TOLD ME THAT THE ENGINES FOR THIS MODEL (YES ENGINES PLURAL!) ARE BEING SHIPPED AT THE END OF THE MONTH. I ASKED HER DIRECTLY IF I WAS THE ONLY ONE EXPERIENCING THIS ISSUE AND SHE FLAT OUT SAID "NO, YOU'RE NOT". I REGRET HAVING PURCHASED A NEW MODEL YEAR VEHICLE OF THIS EXPLORER AND NOW FULLY THINK THIS IS A DANGEROUS VEHICLE. I HOPE FORD SEES THIS. I THINK THEY HAVE A SERIOUS ISSUE AND SOON IT WILL COME OUT THAT THERE ARE SERIOUS PROBLEMS WITH THE 2020 EXPLORER. JUST WAIT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Mileage: 2,100