2021 Ford Explorer Owner Complaints

I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORER ST 2021 IN NEW YORK FROM CITY WORLD FORD ON BOSTON RD IN THE BRONX ON APRIL 22, 2021 AT APPROXIMATELY 9:37PM. I TOOK MY CAR HOME THE SAME SAME DAY. THE FOLLOWING DAY (SECOND DAY) I STARTED EXPERIENCING A PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE AND POWERTRAIN MALFUNCTION/REDUCED POWER LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD AT 12:49 PM. THE CAR BEGAN TO JERK AND FELT LIKE IT WAS ON AWD MODE. THE GAS PEDAL WAS HEAVY AND DIFFICULT TO DRIVE WHILE I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN. I STARTED TO SMELL FIRE COMING FROM THE INSIDE OF MY CAR. ONCE I STARTED EXPERIENCING THOSE PROBLEMS FROM MY CAR I IMMEDIATELY PARKED THE CAR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP DIDN'T GET AN ANSWER SO I DROVE TO THEM PERSONALLY AFTER I LET IT COOL DOWN FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS. I EXPLAINED THE PROBLEM I EXPERIENCED WITH THE CAR TO THEM. THE DEALERSHIP STATED TO ME TO TAKE IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP THE MONDAY AND I DID. THE NEXT DAY (TUESDAY) I PICKED UP THE CAR FROM REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. THE NEXT DAY I STARTED EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THE FORD. I WENT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON WEDNESDAY (NEXT DAY) AND STATED I WANTED A NEW CAR OR EXCHANGE FOR A DIFFERENT CAR. MANAGER STATED I HAD TO TAKE THE CAR FOR SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR. I THEN TOOK THE CAR FOR THE SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR ON WEDNESDAY. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY STILL IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER AND STILL DISPLAYING MALFUNCTIONS AFTER BEING REPAIRED IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. I HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED MY CAR BACK AND REPAIR CENTER STATED THEY ARE NOT SURE WHEN WILL THE PROBLEM WILL BE FIXED AND WORKING PROPERLY.

5/1/2021

I NOTICED TRANSMISSION FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. MARCH 27,2021. DROPPED THE CAR OF AT THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR. 2021 FORD EXPLORER ST WITH 2120 MILES I PURCHASED ON JANUARY 30, 2021. PROBLEM WAS DIAGNOSED AS LEAKS AT THE TRANSFER CASE SEALS ON THE TRANSMISSION OUTPUT DRIVE TRAIN. THE BOOTS WERE LEAKING TRANSMISSION FLUID. THE TRANSFER CASE NEEDED TO BE REMOVED AND THE SEALS REPLACED. THIS RESULTED IN WAITING 6 WEEKS FOR THE PARTS TO BE DELIVERED AND 1 WEEK MORE TO REPAIR AND INSTALL. TODAY I STILL DO NOT HAVE MY CAR BACK. WEEK 7 WILL BE NEXT WEEK WHEN COMPLETION IS ESTIMATED TO BE .

5/7/2021

Constant shuddering between 30-45mph. Local dealer fobs it off as typical, I've driven other 2020 and 2021 Explorers, none have exhibited similar symptoms. Dealer refuses to repair, Ford corporate will not investigate. Has already had one rear axle replaced under warranty, not waiting another 3 weeks for parts when this one breaks again.

8/16/2021

When vehicle is up to temperature, there is an overpowering burning smell coming through the vents into the cab. It only occurs at idle and dissipates when the vehicle is in motion. With the hood open, there is some small noticeable amount of smoke coming from the left side of the engine compartment. The smell is not plastic or rubber.

11/12/2021

I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORER ST 2021 IN NEW YORK FROM CITY WORLD FORD ON BOSTON RD IN THE BRONX ON APRIL 22, 2021 AT APPROXIMATELY 9:37PM. I TOOK MY CAR HOME THE SAME SAME DAY. THE FOLLOWING DAY (SECOND DAY) I STARTED EXPERIENCING A PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE AND POWERTRAIN MALFUNCTION/REDUCED POWER LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD AT 12:49 PM. THE CAR BEGAN TO JERK AND FELT LIKE IT WAS ON AWD MODE. THE GAS PEDAL WAS HEAVY AND DIFFICULT TO DRIVE WHILE I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN. I STARTED TO SMELL FIRE COMING FROM THE INSIDE OF MY CAR. ONCE I STARTED EXPERIENCING THOSE PROBLEMS FROM MY CAR I IMMEDIATELY PARKED THE CAR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP DIDN'T GET AN ANSWER SO I DROVE TO THEM PERSONALLY AFTER I LET IT COOL DOWN FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS. I EXPLAINED THE PROBLEM I EXPERIENCED WITH THE CAR TO THEM. THE DEALERSHIP STATED TO ME TO TAKE IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP THE MONDAY AND I DID. THE NEXT DAY (TUESDAY) I PICKED UP THE CAR FROM REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. THE NEXT DAY I STARTED EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THE FORD. I WENT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON WEDNESDAY (NEXT DAY) AND STATED I WANTED A NEW CAR OR EXCHANGE FOR A DIFFERENT CAR. MANAGER STATED I HAD TO TAKE THE CAR FOR SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR. I THEN TOOK THE CAR FOR THE SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR ON WEDNESDAY. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY STILL IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER AND STILL DISPLAYING MALFUNCTIONS AFTER BEING REPAIRED IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. I HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED MY CAR BACK AND REPAIR CENTER STATED THEY ARE NOT SURE WHEN WILL THE PROBLEM WILL BE FIXED AND WORKING PROPERLY.

5/1/2021

Third row seat won't go up or down (it is an electrical seat for folding flat or to lift back up for seating). On Aug 12, 2021 took it to Ford dealership near me for any appointment to have fixed. In morning of Friday 13th dealership said still hadn't figured out the problem. By afternoon of 13th August dealership said it is either module or buttons issue and said they needed keep it over weekend. Dealership said they d call me by noon on Monday 16th August to let me know. Well, since I hadn't heard from then I called them again (as I have been doing since they dont seem to communicate with customers). Callie of Service dept said its the buttons/switches. That must order them; closest place had them is Tennessee she said. We are concerned for we had these exact issues with 2015 Explorer; started with 3rd row seat then all other electrical issues started happening. That explorer suv was in shop for several months.

8/16/2021

A police officer complained of a strong odor of exhaust coming through the hvac vents. Officer complained of a light dizziness feeling. Suv was grounded from service. Complaint was verified. Upon opening of the hood a odor of exhaust gas was smelled on the right side of the motor. No visible leaks could be heard or seen. Suv was driven to our local Ford dealer for repair.

1/13/2022

Got it in the car and pushed the push start button. The cars engine turned over only half way and started to restart and turn over multiple times even though the motor was running halfway. This went on for 15 minutes until i opened up the hood and looked down and after a couple minutes the engine seized and turned off and started smoking, shortly after started on fire from the bottom of the engine. The fire went on for 10 minutes until we turned it off.

3/31/2022

I had the safety recall 21V735000 performed on October 12, 2021. Within 2 days the same problem of rear-view backup camera blue screen recurred, just as it did before the recall. The problem happens in about 1/3 of trips. Once the blue screen occurs, it doesn't go away until powering off the vehicle, waiting a few minutes, and then upon powering the vehicle on the rear backup camera might work again for a while, but will usually break again the same day.

10/21/2021

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V022000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that his vehicle rental company owns a fleet of 105 2021 Ford Explorers, and the VINs were all included in the recall. The contact stated that 35% of the 105 vehicles had experienced a loss of rearview camera image. The dealer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicles were not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.  

5/4/2023

While in a driveway at a decline (approximately 5% grade), I placed the vehicle in park and set the emergency brake; when I decompressed the brake to turn the vehicle off it took off sliding down the street. A coworker was with me and was about to get out at the time as well. Fortunately I was able to gain control before I hit the mailbox in front of us and no one or thing was injured This was the second time this happened; however, the first time the emergency brake was not set. Also, starting at 23k miles, I am repeatedly getting a "Auto Hold system fault" error every few days. This occurs sometimes at startup and sometimes while driving and the Auto Hold will not work when it comes up. However, if I stop and restart the vehicle, it will go away and work. I am not sure these are related.

6/4/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that he had received a recall notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V255000 (Power Train). During a routine maintenance check, the recall was serviced; however, upon return of the vehicle, the brake pedal was depressed to the floorboard with the parking brake fault, uphill assist, and ABS warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that while driving at various speeds, the brake pedal hardened and the vehicle failed to stop as needed. The contact's wife called the dealer and was informed that there were 5 other vehicles that had experienced the same failure. The contact attempted to reach the manufacturer but was unsuccessful. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.

9/6/2022

When putting the car in reverse it jerks back if the pedal is touched which has almost caused an accident. It takes about a minute or two to adjust backing up and the rear camera does not show until the clutch has adjusted.

9/9/2021

All of the sensors are out. Nothing is working. They were working fine then one day I noticed the lane keeping sensors were not working. Today I noticed the side sensors are not working which they were this morning. The middle row seat gets stuck if moved forward, it will not stay back. The button is always stuck so while on the road the seat randomly pops out of place. The wipers do not work properly, only on high speed. I have already called McCombs Ford West in San Antonio, Tx as I purchased the vehicle there in October of 2021 but they are not worried about it. They said I can go drop it off but they will check it when they get a chance and will not provide a loan car which I cannot do that as I have kids. All the safety features that it should have are not working. They told me it would be weeks before they even look at the vehicle.

6/22/2022

Adaptive Cruise control reads the overhead electronic posted 65MPH speed limit signs as 85MPH. This only occurs when traveling on I-670 eastbound between Leonard Ave and I-270 on the east side of Columbus Ohio...This section of highway was recently upgraded with "Smart Lane" overhead electronic signs. The dash on this vehicle shows the posted speed limit at all times, but if the cruise control is on the vehicle with automatically go to what it reads and in this case goes to 85MPH! I have driven this vehicle over 5000 miles in 4 different states and this situation only occurs at this particular locatiion. I have contacted State of Ohio, Department of Trtansportation and discussing this issue with Drive Ohio representative Luke Stedke ( [email protected])

8/4/2021

The contact leased a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle accelerated independently. The contact stated that five minutes later the vehicle went into safety mode and the vehicle failed to move. The low battery message was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact called the local dealer but, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 7,600.

12/14/2021

On October 25, 2021; my wife and I were driving across country when we experienced a blow-out at 75 MPH in New Mexico (about 80 miles west of Amarillo. The blow-out was caused by body cladding, which came off the right rear door of our 2021 Ford Explorer - apparently attributable to 19+ MPH desert cross winds at highway speeds of 75 MPH. The trim lodged in the right rear wheel well; slicing the tire and cutting a gash from the aluminum rim. We had to get to California for a scheduled closing on our new home and were therefore unable to stay in Amarillo or Albuquerque for the three days required to receive a matching rim and tire, so I had a nearby tire store install a wheel of a different size with an offsetting tire size to approximate the circumference of the stock wheels and tires. Ford has thus far neglected to acknowledge the obvious defect that would allow a body part to blow off the car and has offered no assistance in repairing the car or reimbursing me for the wheel and tire I had to purchase to meet personal legal obligations. I've seen evidence in online forums indicating other incidents of body trim blowing off Ford Explorers at highway speeds. Ford must take responsibility for this defect and reimburse other owners and me for costs incurred to resolve implications of their defective body parts.

12/9/2021

I'm writing to you to relay a serious safety issue that started with the 2021 Explorer ST manufacturing processes. When Ford designed the new Explorer ST, the rear subframe was engineered to allow the rear differential to be attached with four bolts (Attachment-A). This was needed to properly secure the differential in light of the ST motor putting out more horsepower than their other models. My 2020 Explorer ST had the correct subframe with two bolts (Attachment-B.) At some point during the manufacturing of the 2021 ST models, Ford started using base-model Explorer rear subframes that contained a single bolt (Attachment-C) on the rear portion of the subframe. This was likely done due to the global shortage of parts and materials that most automotive manufacturers encountered. The results were predictable, and many users in Explorer discussion groups have reported the single-bolt shearing off, dropping the differential and damaging the rear suspension components and exhaust (Attachment-D & E.) This is a glaring safety issue, especially with a performance car, as a failure at speed could result in loss of control of the vehicle. To date, Ford has not responded to my inquiries requesting more information and a resolution. They did recently release a Special Service Message acknowledging that this is an issue (Attachment-F.) The thread below on explorerst.org outlines the problem in detail. There are dozens of people there and in the Explorer ST groups on Facebook that have encountered this problem, with varying levels of successful resolution and attention from Ford. I'm happy to provide additional links to conversations about this, if needed. https://www.explorerst.org/threads/rear-end-damage.2602/ I represent a growing group of ST owners who would like Ford to issue a recall, and repair their vehicles before a failure occurs.

3/18/2022

THE WHEEL WELLS OF THE VEHICLE COLLECT LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND ICE. THIS BUILD UP CONSTRICTS THE WHEELS OF THE VEHICLE CONTACTING THE TIRES RESTRICTING ROTATION AND STEERING. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS POTENTIALLY DEADLY SITUATION. WE HAVE CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THE DEALERSHIP. NO REMEDY TO THIS SITUATION HAS BEEN OFFERED. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND ANY ASSISTANCE IS APPRECIATED. I BELIEVE THIS IS A WIDE SPREAD PROBLEM FORD IS UNWILLING TO DEAL WITH. THIS CONDITION OCCURS IN COLD WEATHER AND SNOWY ICY CONDITIONS. THE BUILD UP HAZARD HAPPENS EVEN DRIVING SHORT HIGHWAY DISTANCES.

3/20/2021

Ford has started a recall for vehicles with a single bolt in the rear differential mount. This is in reference to the roll away issue as their calling it. Some people have recieved notice for this and others have not. My production date is listed as 8/21. Which I believe is in part of the recall. Even if not this vehicle has only one bolt in the unit and not 2. Which is part of the recall issue.

9/19/2022

Third row seat won't go up or down (it is an electrical seat for folding flat or to lift back up for seating). On Aug 12, 2021 took it to Ford dealership near me for any appointment to have fixed. In morning of Friday 13th dealership said still hadn't figured out the problem. By afternoon of 13th August dealership said it is either module or buttons issue and said they needed keep it over weekend. Dealership said they d call me by noon on Monday 16th August to let me know. Well, since I hadn't heard from then I called them again (as I have been doing since they dont seem to communicate with customers). Callie of Service dept said its the buttons/switches. That must order them; closest place had them is Tennessee she said. We are concerned for we had these exact issues with 2015 Explorer; started with 3rd row seat then all other electrical issues started happening. That explorer suv was in shop for several months.

8/16/2021

The vehicle was involved in a rear-end collision. When the collision occurred, both front seats dropped into a fully reclined position and locked fully reclined.

12/14/2021

All of the sensors are out. Nothing is working. They were working fine then one day I noticed the lane keeping sensors were not working. Today I noticed the side sensors are not working which they were this morning. The middle row seat gets stuck if moved forward, it will not stay back. The button is always stuck so while on the road the seat randomly pops out of place. The wipers do not work properly, only on high speed. I have already called McCombs Ford West in San Antonio, Tx as I purchased the vehicle there in October of 2021 but they are not worried about it. They said I can go drop it off but they will check it when they get a chance and will not provide a loan car which I cannot do that as I have kids. All the safety features that it should have are not working. They told me it would be weeks before they even look at the vehicle.

6/22/2022

The back up camera fails basically 1 out of 5 times it's engaged between skipping or just straight blue/black screen. The screen is out and causes blind spots while backing up.

5/19/2023

Since purchasing this vehicle I have off and on experienced my bluetooth echoing for the party on the other end of the line. I have also experienced my gas tank shaking my entire car upon stopping depending how much gas is in the tank, usually full to 3/4 full. I have also experienced on multiple occasions my back up camera turning blue. There was a trend going for a while if it was hot outside it would turn blue all the time. However, over the winter months it periodically started changing blue. More recently, when I put my car into reverse it will take a few seconds to switch gears. I also experienced my front driverside window not going up. I had to turn the car off and back on again in order for it to go back up. Altogether, I have had multiple issues with my brand new car since the day of purchase. I immediately took the vehicle back in for the gas tank shaking and their response was because I was not used to driving a "smaller" car. I however find that extremely unsafe in the event I were to break too hard, I feel that my gas tank would come disassembled.

4/8/2022

(1)While reversing into the garage, the rear facing camera system turned blue and disabled the reverse braking system. (2) several instances: while reversing, the reverse braking system disables randomly.

4/14/2022

Vehicle loses power while on freeway when 4WD, Pre-Collision Assist, Hill Start Assist, and other warning messages display. Vehicle lost power approximately 5 times while registering message, but messages have displayed approximately 40-50 times in the past week before being services. Vehicle dealership repair facility inspected and diagnosed a bad 4WD module.

9/26/2023

In relation to NHTSA Recall Number: 23V342, Ford has failed to remedy issues around reverse Automatic Emergency Breaking. Whenever the 360° camera screen is blue, the system in place to prevent collisions also fails. There is no pattern of failure. Nearly 60% of the time the vehicle is driven an error related to 23V342 occurs.

10/26/2023

Adaptive Cruise control reads the overhead electronic posted 65MPH speed limit signs as 85MPH. This only occurs when traveling on I-670 eastbound between Leonard Ave and I-270 on the east side of Columbus Ohio...This section of highway was recently upgraded with "Smart Lane" overhead electronic signs. The dash on this vehicle shows the posted speed limit at all times, but if the cruise control is on the vehicle with automatically go to what it reads and in this case goes to 85MPH! I have driven this vehicle over 5000 miles in 4 different states and this situation only occurs at this particular locatiion. I have contacted State of Ohio, Department of Trtansportation and discussing this issue with Drive Ohio representative Luke Stedke ( [email protected])

8/4/2021

While using Intelligent Adaptive Cruise, the vehicle suddenly thought the speed limit was 85mph and quickly started accelerating. Confused, I hit the brakes to stop the acceleration. I have uploaded a photo of the dash that I took showing that the system read the speed limit sign as 85. I saw no speed limit sign in the area, so, I have no idea what prompted the system to change speed. I was talking on the phone via Android Auto and using Waze, via Android Auto, USB direct connect. The only other problem I've ever had with this system is on interstates that have specific Truck speed limits in West Virginia. There, sometimes trucks have slower speeds and this system picks up those truck speeds and decelerates/brakes to comply. While it can be overridden in the moment, the next time it sees such sign, it slows again. This sudden deceleration poses a hazard to other drivers who do not expect a 'non-truck' vehicle to suddenly slow.

2/16/2023

In the last 2 months I have had a total of 3 back up cameras and the equipment is still turning blue on random. I have had the wiring replaced to “fix” the Bluetooth echo, and it is still doing it. The gas take also shakes enough to move the car when you come to a stop depending on amount of gas in the tank.

6/10/2022

Gear(transmission), when put in reverse the car goes forward instead of reverse, and Jerks in reverse after 7-15 sec. And it also jerks while accelerating.

6/23/2022

THE WHEEL WELLS OF THE VEHICLE COLLECT LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND ICE. THIS BUILD UP CONSTRICTS THE WHEELS OF THE VEHICLE CONTACTING THE TIRES RESTRICTING ROTATION AND STEERING. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS POTENTIALLY DEADLY SITUATION. WE HAVE CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THE DEALERSHIP. NO REMEDY TO THIS SITUATION HAS BEEN OFFERED. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND ANY ASSISTANCE IS APPRECIATED. I BELIEVE THIS IS A WIDE SPREAD PROBLEM FORD IS UNWILLING TO DEAL WITH. THIS CONDITION OCCURS IN COLD WEATHER AND SNOWY ICY CONDITIONS. THE BUILD UP HAZARD HAPPENS EVEN DRIVING SHORT HIGHWAY DISTANCES.

3/20/2021

On October 25, 2021; my wife and I were driving across country when we experienced a blow-out at 75 MPH in New Mexico (about 80 miles west of Amarillo. The blow-out was caused by body cladding, which came off the right rear door of our 2021 Ford Explorer - apparently attributable to 19+ MPH desert cross winds at highway speeds of 75 MPH. The trim lodged in the right rear wheel well; slicing the tire and cutting a gash from the aluminum rim. We had to get to California for a scheduled closing on our new home and were therefore unable to stay in Amarillo or Albuquerque for the three days required to receive a matching rim and tire, so I had a nearby tire store install a wheel of a different size with an offsetting tire size to approximate the circumference of the stock wheels and tires. Ford has thus far neglected to acknowledge the obvious defect that would allow a body part to blow off the car and has offered no assistance in repairing the car or reimbursing me for the wheel and tire I had to purchase to meet personal legal obligations. I've seen evidence in online forums indicating other incidents of body trim blowing off Ford Explorers at highway speeds. Ford must take responsibility for this defect and reimburse other owners and me for costs incurred to resolve implications of their defective body parts.

12/9/2021

On 11/25/2021, I started the vehicle and drove about 2 miles when I noticed that the airbag light was illuminated on the dash. Knowing that this is a safety concern, I pulled into a parking lot and shut off the vehicle. I let the vehicle sit for about 30 seconds and restarted the car. When restarted, the light did not come back on. Took the vehicle in to have a recall performed and told the service advisor that the light had come on. They confirmed that there was a "stored code" but "not something that made sense". The dealership has had the vehicle for 9 days with no resolution. They say that a wiring pigtail harness needs replaced but also that there is a fault in the driver's seat airbag. The replacement airbag is not available due to a backorder (told 3-4 weeks). I feel that this is a large safety concern as I was told I could pick up the vehicle until the parts become available knowing that there is a fault in the airbag. The failure occurred with 3410 miles on the odometer.

12/13/2021

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that he was driving approximately at 55 MPH when a deer jumped out in front of his vehicle. As a result, the contact crashed into the deer and the air bags did deploy, however when it did it was very aggressive. The contact stated that he and his wife were both sustained multiple injuries caused by the airbags. The contact stated the passenger suffered injuries to both her eyes causing blindness and isn't certain if it would be permeant. The contact stated that he sustained injuries to his wrist, neck, and leg. The contact stated the ambulance was called and took them to the hospital where they received treatment. The contact stated the vehicle was towed to a junkyard service, and from there towed to the dealer where it remains currently. The contact was advised that his vehicle may be totaled and that he should await further details. The failure mileage was 3,000.

12/20/2021

Two issues. 1. After the software update that was supposed to fix the rear camera blue screen issue, it randomly shows a blue screen instead of the camera image when reversing. The issue doesn't correct until the vehicle is turned completely off and restarted. 2. The rear hatch randomly closes when getting items out or putting items in the cargo area. It cracks you on the head and DOES NOT STOP. If you can't get out from under it in time you fall to the ground. More than once it has made me see stars it struck my head so hard. Also sometimes when walking away from the vehicle the hatch will open on its own with no one near it. The dealer tried once to reproduce the issue but didn't happen while they had it.

9/11/2022

Backup camera “blue screens” during critical times it is required. Software updates were updated but no resolution until Ford replaced the backup camera.

11/27/2022

The back up camera fails basically 1 out of 5 times it's engaged between skipping or just straight blue/black screen. The screen is out and causes blind spots while backing up.

5/19/2023

Every 6 months, the rear cameras, cross traffic sensors and blind spot warning go out and completely stop functioning. I take it to the dealer tland they keep it for 1-2 weeks and eventually replace a fuse and send it home. This has happened four times. No one will actually correct the root cause ti the issue. It's going on its third week in the shop this time.

7/22/2023

THE WHEEL WELLS OF THE VEHICLE COLLECT LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW AND ICE. THIS BUILD UP CONSTRICTS THE WHEELS OF THE VEHICLE CONTACTING THE TIRES RESTRICTING ROTATION AND STEERING. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS POTENTIALLY DEADLY SITUATION. WE HAVE CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY AND THE DEALERSHIP. NO REMEDY TO THIS SITUATION HAS BEEN OFFERED. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND ANY ASSISTANCE IS APPRECIATED. I BELIEVE THIS IS A WIDE SPREAD PROBLEM FORD IS UNWILLING TO DEAL WITH. THIS CONDITION OCCURS IN COLD WEATHER AND SNOWY ICY CONDITIONS. THE BUILD UP HAZARD HAPPENS EVEN DRIVING SHORT HIGHWAY DISTANCES.

3/20/2021

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that prior to the failure she observed a "transmission code" warning that flashed twice but did not illuminate again. The contact pulled off the roadway and stopped the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and regained power steering functionality. Additionally, the instrument cluster failed to operate as needed. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that a software update was needed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the instrument cluster failure reoccurred. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.

9/8/2023

I PURCHASED A FORD EXPLORER ST 2021 IN NEW YORK FROM CITY WORLD FORD ON BOSTON RD IN THE BRONX ON APRIL 22, 2021 AT APPROXIMATELY 9:37PM. I TOOK MY CAR HOME THE SAME SAME DAY. THE FOLLOWING DAY (SECOND DAY) I STARTED EXPERIENCING A PRE-COLLISION ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE AND POWERTRAIN MALFUNCTION/REDUCED POWER LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD AT 12:49 PM. THE CAR BEGAN TO JERK AND FELT LIKE IT WAS ON AWD MODE. THE GAS PEDAL WAS HEAVY AND DIFFICULT TO DRIVE WHILE I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN. I STARTED TO SMELL FIRE COMING FROM THE INSIDE OF MY CAR. ONCE I STARTED EXPERIENCING THOSE PROBLEMS FROM MY CAR I IMMEDIATELY PARKED THE CAR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP DIDN'T GET AN ANSWER SO I DROVE TO THEM PERSONALLY AFTER I LET IT COOL DOWN FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS. I EXPLAINED THE PROBLEM I EXPERIENCED WITH THE CAR TO THEM. THE DEALERSHIP STATED TO ME TO TAKE IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP THE MONDAY AND I DID. THE NEXT DAY (TUESDAY) I PICKED UP THE CAR FROM REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. THE NEXT DAY I STARTED EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THE FORD. I WENT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ON WEDNESDAY (NEXT DAY) AND STATED I WANTED A NEW CAR OR EXCHANGE FOR A DIFFERENT CAR. MANAGER STATED I HAD TO TAKE THE CAR FOR SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR. I THEN TOOK THE CAR FOR THE SECOND TIME FOR REPAIR ON WEDNESDAY. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY STILL IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER AND STILL DISPLAYING MALFUNCTIONS AFTER BEING REPAIRED IN THE REPAIR SERVICE CENTER. I HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED MY CAR BACK AND REPAIR CENTER STATED THEY ARE NOT SURE WHEN WILL THE PROBLEM WILL BE FIXED AND WORKING PROPERLY.

5/1/2021

Audio Control Module failed on 2/17/22. No audio for Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, and reverse sensors. Dealer replace ACM, which fixed the issues on 2/22/22. However on 2/27/22, the speakers started making a popping crackling noise and front speakers went out. Then a few minutes later, no audio for about 15 minutes, but the popping noise still continued. After no audio for about 15 minutes the driver side speakers started to work, but the popping noise continued. Vehicle will be going back to the dealership.

2/28/2022

Approximately 1.5 months ago, my ford explorer started having issues with shifting frm drive to reverse or reverse to drive, stopped to reverse and stop to drive. I had my oil changed and there were 2 updates to the transmission that were done. The problem persists. When going through a car wash in which you put the car in neutral and ride through as it washes, I placed the car in neutral and almost hit the vehicle in front of me due to it taking 3-4 seconds to shift from drive to neutral.

3/21/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that after his wife set the vehicle to "Park" while the engine was running, as she exited, the vehicle lurched forward and crashed into the garage back wall. There was no damage to the vehicle, however, there was damage to the garage back wall. The contact stated his wife saw no warning lights were illuminated. The contact's wife got back into the vehicle and observed that the gear shift lever was still in "Park" and she shut the vehicle off. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer, or an independent mechanic. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

6/21/2022

Issue with navigation system. Many times is shows no GPS. Navigation does not always recognize current vehicle position and many times navigation does not even work. On many occasions, upon starting the vehicle, the clock does not even work when the navigation system isn't being used. This is a safety issue when we are traveling out of town. We are not fans of using our phones for navigation as an alternative to the faulty vehicle onboard navigation. This first started happening December 2022.

2/17/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the screen display was blue and black and became inoperable. While reversing, the screen was blue. The contact was unable to use the GPS feature. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, and the contact was informed that the vehicle could be repaired under warranty. The system showed that the screen had connected and disconnected. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V342000 (Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

12/14/2023

Headlamps stay lit even in auto lamp mode. Indicator on the dial does not display which mode or setting the lights are in. This has occurred numerous times and seems to have increased frequency

10/9/2023

Vehicle blinker works at fast rate at all times. In the event that one of the rear turn signals stops working, the vehicle will not adjust the turn signal flash rate frequency to warn the driver that a turn signal is not working correctly. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." Ford says 'fast' blinker on all Explorer ST's is by design and normal.

1/1/2024

The front tires chewed to pieces, one blew, and the dealer initially felt it was an alignment issue from the factory. Up one further inspection, they found an aluminum toe rod with a 45 degree bend. I believe this was a factory issue as we hit nothing on the highway. It seems from an FMEA point of view, it is likely the blown tire and momentum of the car bent the tie rod and that the tire damage was caused by a part failure or some other issue with the car. It is a 3 month old car with 9,400 miles. The car struck Nothing on the highway.

6/24/2021

The front tires chewed to pieces, one blew, and the dealer initially felt it was an alignment issue from the factory. Up one further inspection, they found an aluminum toe rod with a 45 degree bend. I believe this was a factory issue as we hit nothing on the highway. It seems from an FMEA point of view, it is likely the blown tire and momentum of the car bent the tie rod and that the tire damage was caused by a part failure or some other issue with the car. It is a 3 month old car with 9,400 miles. The car struck Nothing on the highway.

6/24/2021

Vibration: First use of the day, at about 35 MPH vehicle exhibits vibration throughout, especially around 40-41mph. Felt in steering wheel, seat, and with a loud rumble often heard. Has been since car was new. Has a vibration in rear view mirror at highway speeds. Goes away after driving for 15 miles or so, and at least a half hour. Returns after vehicle cools off. Cruise control: Adaptive cruise sometimes causes extreme braking at highway speeds for no reason. This happened while driving past a vehicle on Alligator alley causing all my passengers to comment, even though I had not touched the brake. Happened again 10/28 on 75 coming down from Sarasota. Braking: ABS engages on dry roads, especially when turning, for example into a driveway, but it cold be just a normal stop for a traffic light. The brakes also “grab” when coming to final stop, causing the car to stop suddenly

10/30/2021

The contact leases a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while his wife was driving at 25 MPH with Co-pilot 360 assist mode and the evasive steering assist engaged, she lost control of the steering wheel. The contact stated that his wife could not feel the connection between the steering wheel and the front tires of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle made a sharp right turn and crashed into a telephone pole. There were no warning lights illuminated. The air bags deployed. The contact 's wife sustained bruises and lesions on the ankle, knee cap, arms and on her left breast but did not seek medical assistance. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The vehicle was then towed to another tow lot where it was totaled. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.

3/9/2022

Since purchasing this vehicle I have off and on experienced my bluetooth echoing for the party on the other end of the line. I have also experienced my gas tank shaking my entire car upon stopping depending how much gas is in the tank, usually full to 3/4 full. I have also experienced on multiple occasions my back up camera turning blue. There was a trend going for a while if it was hot outside it would turn blue all the time. However, over the winter months it periodically started changing blue. More recently, when I put my car into reverse it will take a few seconds to switch gears. I also experienced my front driverside window not going up. I had to turn the car off and back on again in order for it to go back up. Altogether, I have had multiple issues with my brand new car since the day of purchase. I immediately took the vehicle back in for the gas tank shaking and their response was because I was not used to driving a "smaller" car. I however find that extremely unsafe in the event I were to break too hard, I feel that my gas tank would come disassembled.

4/8/2022

I am having major issues with the 3rd row seating on my Ford explorer getting stuck and not able to be moved. This is happening causing children to not have places to sit and seatbelts to secure themselves in for a safe commute. Each time the seats are stuck, they are not even able to be moved manually. The entire seat including the head rest becomes immobile and leaves the seat in either a half open/closed position or an open position with no headrest capability. While traveling out of town on January 23 with 6 people in my vehicle my 3rd row seats became stuck in positions where I was unable to safely transport 2 of the occupants of the car. I also had to travel home in an extremely unsafe situation where luggage had to remain in laps for a 4 hour car ride and could have been catastrophic had there been an accident. I reached out to the service department of Palmetto Ford on January 24th about this issue and they told me it would be 3 to 4 weeks until they could get my vehicle in to “look at it.” I reached out to my sales person who was able to coordinate with the service manager to get my vehicle looked at the next day. They did not have a loner for me to drive so they rented one from Enterprise and had me come back the next day to pick it up and began to repair my car. It took them about 2 days and they said they had to completely replace the computer brain of the 3rd row seating. When I left it was in working order. Two months later while once again out of town with 4 other people’s children to care for my 3rd row seating gets stuck again in an unusable position. This time I had no other alternative but to put these kids in seats together seatbelted in and pray that I did not get hit. When I got home on March 29th I called Palmetto Ford sales to let them know that my seats are once again broken and spoke to the sales manager Jake. I told him that I felt unsafe in the vehicle now and that I would like them to take it back. I told him I had more travel

5/13/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while parking the vehicle on an incline, the transmission inadvertently shifted out of park(P). The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The contact stated the failure occurred whenever the parking brake was not activated while parking the vehicle. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50.

5/23/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated the adaptive cruise control and the collision avoidance systems would malfunction. The vehicle would suddenly deactivate the cruise control and the collision avoidance would detect a non-existing object and stop the vehicle from also turning to avoid the crash. The contact stated that while idled at a stop light when the vehicle suddenly accelerated rear-ending the vehicle in front. The air bags did not deploy however the acceleration did not reach high enough speeds for such a response. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was not towed. There were no injuries or medical attention needed. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer however the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures. The approximate failure mileage was 10,000.

6/15/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated the adaptive cruise control and the collision avoidance systems would malfunction. The vehicle would suddenly deactivate the cruise control and the collision avoidance would detect a non-existing object and stop the vehicle from also turning to avoid the crash. The contact stated that while idled at a stop light when the vehicle suddenly accelerated rear-ending the vehicle in front. The air bags did not deploy however the acceleration did not reach high enough speeds for such a response. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was not towed. There were no injuries or medical attention needed. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer however the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failures. The approximate failure mileage was 10,000.

6/15/2022

All of the sensors are out. Nothing is working. They were working fine then one day I noticed the lane keeping sensors were not working. Today I noticed the side sensors are not working which they were this morning. The middle row seat gets stuck if moved forward, it will not stay back. The button is always stuck so while on the road the seat randomly pops out of place. The wipers do not work properly, only on high speed. I have already called McCombs Ford West in San Antonio, Tx as I purchased the vehicle there in October of 2021 but they are not worried about it. They said I can go drop it off but they will check it when they get a chance and will not provide a loan car which I cannot do that as I have kids. All the safety features that it should have are not working. They told me it would be weeks before they even look at the vehicle.

6/22/2022

2021 FORD EXPLORER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ISSUE WITH THE REAR SUBFRAME. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED WITH AN INCORRECT SUBRAME. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THE SINGLE BOLTS WILL EVENTUALLY BREAK DUE TO STRESS. THE VEHICLE HAD A RECALL TO REPROGRAM THE PCM TO AUTOMATICALLY APPLY THE PARKING BREAK. THE CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED THE RECALL WOULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE FROM ROLLING AWAY.

7/11/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while it was raining, the windshield wipers were activated but failed to clear the windshield as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the wipers were replaced, but the failure continued. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the windshield arm were replaced, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle operated as designed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 5,000. The VIN was not available.

9/27/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that he recently had a manufacturer recall performed on the vehicle for Ford Customer Satisfaction Program Number 22N06 (Rear Axle Bolt Replacement). The contact stated that the dealer re-programed the E-brake to engage automatically when the vehicle was placed in park(P). The contact stated while reversing out of his driveway the vehicle would not move. The contact had been instructed to tap on the accelerator to release the E-brake. The contact stated that the RPM was raised to approximately 2,000 RPM, and only then would the high RPM release the E-brake; however, the vehicle would lurch into motion at approximately 10 MPH. The contact stated that the E-brake warning light was illuminated and then switched off once the E-brake was disengaged. The contact stated that the failure was more pronounced while reversing on a slope. The contact stated that the failure recurred while placing the vehicle in drive(D) however, the vehicle lurched and jumped forward. The contact stated that the motion was not as aggressive as while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The contact had taken the vehicle back to the local dealer where it had been reprogrammed. The contact was advised that all that could be done was to reprogram the E-brake. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.

12/27/2022

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, there was a strong gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated while the vehicle was parked in the garage, there was a strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the gasoline odor was present throughout the entire three-story residence. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel line was leaking from a hole. The fuel line was replaced, and the diagnostic fault codes were cleared. The contact stated that upon reviewing photographs of the fuel line, he noticed that an unknown component had been rubbing against the fuel line, which caused the failure; however, the dealer did not inform him of the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.

2/14/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and attempting to slow down, the vehicle failed to properly respond. The contact desperately depressed the brake pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact activated the parking brake, and the vehicle was able to stop. The contact was able to drive back to the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and the dealer stated that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer stated that the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 20,000.

4/27/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. That contact stated that the silver plastic strip on the driver's side power window switch had started peeling away, creating the potential for her to lacerate her finger. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to Customer Satisfaction Program: 22B37, but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

6/29/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that prior to the failure she observed a "transmission code" warning that flashed twice but did not illuminate again. The contact pulled off the roadway and stopped the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and regained power steering functionality. Additionally, the instrument cluster failed to operate as needed. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that a software update was needed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the instrument cluster failure reoccurred. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.

9/8/2023

It is extremely difficult to tighten the harness on this seat. As we have used the seat more, the harness has gotten nearly impossible to get snug enough to be safe. I am a CPST, so I am sure the seat was adjusted properly for my child. I also talked to a CPST at Britax to make sure I wasn’t missing something that could help. I was sent a new harness to see if it would help, but it did not make any difference. We have since stopped using this car seat and replaced it.

10/6/2023

Two TPMS sensors have failed on this vehicle. Although these sensors are required under the TREAD act, Ford has advised through their dealer that this is not a safety issue and the TPMS sensor batteries failing less than 3 years from date of vehicle manufacture falls in the category of normal wear and tear. Note that the vehicle has 27,243 miles on it, and these are the original TPMS sensors/wheels/tires that the vehicle came equipped with from Ford.

11/17/2023

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from under the floorboards. The contact slowed the vehicle to listen for the sound, when the contact depressed the accelerator pedal to move forward, he heard the abnormal sound and described it as the sound of a motorcycle exhaust. The contact stated that he drove forward for a few minutes more when the abnormal noise from under the vehicle was louder and he felt that some object was trapped underneath the vehicle and was hitting the underside causing a loud banging noise. The contact stopped the vehicle and looked underneath the vehicle and observed that the passenger’s side exhaust pipe had detached from the catalytic converter. The contact then checked the driver's side and saw that a crack had opened approximately one inch from where the exhaust pipe was connected to the catalytic convert. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the damage appeared to have been made during an attempt to steal the catalytic converter and referred the contact to a muffler specialist. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact took the vehicle to a muffler repair shop where it was diagnosed that the exhaust pipes had rusted, and the passenger’s side exhaust pipe had detached from the vehicle. The contact did not believe that the rust was the cause in the fracturing of the exhaust pipe from the catalytic converter. The contact researched online and related the failure to manufacturer Customer Satisfaction Program Number: 21E11 Emission Recall (Engine). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,691.

12/7/2023

P25B4- TURBOCHARGER/SUPERCHARGER WASTE GATE (A) STUCK CLOSED P0299- TURBOCHARGER/SUPERCHARGER UNDERBOOST POWERTRAIN AND 4-WHEEL DRIVE IN-OPERABLE, TURNED ON VEHICLE TO DRIVE AND IMMEDIATELY THREW THE TWO CODES ABOVE. FORD SAYS THIS IS NOT A COVERED ISSUE.

1/15/2024

The rear windshield shattered as I was driving. I did not hit anything, nor did anything hit the rear window. The temperature is -3. I had the defroster on and think the extreme cold mixed with the defroster caused the window to shatter. Is the glass faulty? Or the defroster?

1/15/2024

My digital dash would get wavy and flickery with lines through it almost like the LEDs in the screen we're going bad. They made lines going across which made it hard to read the speedometer. Since I brought this up it's been two or three times that I've tried to have them look at it and they finally saw what was going on and they decided that they were going to replace the instrument cluster in the dash and since they replaced it it has been fine. Also I am on battery number for due to the vehicle going in battery saver mode every time the battery starts to go bad and Ford has yet to figure out what is going on with my vehicle that is causing me to have bad batteries and causing it to go in the battery saver mode to preserve power within hours of the vehicle having been driven.

1/22/2024

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the passenger’s side rear door glass fastener installed between the V-shaped glass and the door glass had fractured. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The contact was informed that the passenger’s side rear door glass fastener needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the repair could not be covered under warranty. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

1/24/2024

Roof trim blew off. Moon roof- yes Luggage rack- no Driver side

3/1/2024