The 2021 Ford Explorer showcases a concerning reliability profile, particularly with 21 recalls and multiple complaints related to critical systems like the powertrain and back-over prevention. The peak failure mileage of 60k-80k indicates that issues may arise as the vehicle ages, warranting closer scrutiny for ongoing maintenance.
Key Factor:Numerous safety-related recalls
â ī¸
Safety Alert
Safety Alert: This model has a higher recall frequency (21) than the average FORD vehicle (2.6). Owners should prioritize checking these components.
21 recalls for this vehicle2.6 avg. recalls per vehicle (brand)
đWhy This Matters
Safety defects in critical components such as the back-over prevention system and engine can severely compromise passenger safety, especially for children seated in the back. The potential failure of the rearview camera could hinder visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians or obstacles. Additionally, engine issues could lead to unexpected stalls or performance failures while driving, making it essential for families to remain vigilant about these defects.
Focus Area:Safety Profile
đ
Expert Analysis
đ
Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
â ī¸
Primary Risk Area:Warning
âī¸
Vs Brand: Worse than avg (2.6)
đ
Summary: The safety trend for the 2021 Ford Explorer raises significant concerns when compared to industry expectations. With numerous recalls impacting essential systems and more than a hundred complaints reported, families should approach this model with caution due to its heightened risk profile.
Safety & Reliability Score
0/100
Score Breakdown
Recall Impact-168
Complaint Impact-5
Investigation Impact-35
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2021 FORD Explorer
Model Year2021
MakeFORD
ModelExplorer
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle
Safety History Timeline
Scroll for more â
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct21
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Jun23
RECALLRecall Issued
Aug23
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct23
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec23
RECALLRecall Issued
Aug24
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct24
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan25
ISSUEFirst Report
Jul25
RECALLRecall Issued
Oct25
RECALLRecall Issued
Consumer Complaint Analysis
â ī¸
Most Reported Issue
30 complaints (30% of total)
âĄī¸
Complaint Trend
Stable
No trend data
â
Safety Incidents
No critical incidents
Complaint Severity Distribution
Breakdown of 100 consumer complaints by severity level.
đ High
5(5%)
đĄMedium
11(11%)
đĸLow
84(84%)
Mileage Failure Analysis
âī¸Engineering Insight
The identified peak failure range of 60k-80k miles is particularly relevant for current owners considering long-term reliability. Families should be especially proactive in monitoring their vehicle's maintenance as they approach this mileage threshold, ensuring that any signs of trouble are addressed promptly to safeguard their loved ones.
đ Mileage data extracted from 30 of 100 complaints (30% coverage)
0-20k
0 reports (0%)
20k-40k
6 reports (20%)
40k-60k
5 reports (17%)
60k-80k
8 reports (27%)
80k-100k
7 reports (23%)
100k+
4 reports (13%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.
đ ī¸ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Primary Risk Areas
SUSPENSIONENGINEBACK OVER PREVENTIONAIR BAGSPOWER TRAINELECTRICAL SYSTEMENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGEQUIPMENTSEAT BELTSSEATSFUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
đ¯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
1
Back Over Prevention System
Issue: Rearview camera video output may fail, impacting reversing visibility.
â
Schedule a software check to ensure rearview camera functionality.
đ
Request confirmation that recall work has been completed related to back-over prevention.
Campaigns:21V12321V121
2
Powertrain
Issue: Right-hand motor mount fasteners may loosen over time, affecting engine stability.
â
Have motor mounts inspected regularly for any signs of loosening or instability.
đ
Inquire about any performed services pertaining to powertrain stability during test drives.
Campaign:20V123
đĄVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your FORD dealer to verify recall completion status.
Official Safety Recalls (21)
Campaign: 21V870000
SUSPENSION:REAR
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. Incorrect rear suspension module components may have been installed due to a labeling error.
Consequence
A rear suspension module with incorrect components may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rear suspension module, and replace any incorrect parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S47.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 20V788000
ENGINE
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.
Consequence
With a loose motor mount, motor vibration may cause the axle to disconnect from the engine and could result in loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the right hand motor mount fasteners, free of charge. The recall began February 3, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S72.
Additional Notes
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.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 21V735000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer, Lincoln Corsair, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Consequence
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S44.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 21V652000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The side air bag attachment weld studs could detach during the deployment of the side air bag, resulting in an improper deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214, "Side Impact Protection".
Consequence
Improper deployment of a side air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the side air bag assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 10, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C19.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V022000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Consequence
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V069000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.
Consequence
A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S05.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V199000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Consequence
Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V305000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 12.1-inch Integrated Computer Screen (ICS). When the Display On/Off Button is used to turn the display to "Off" prior to placing the vehicle in reverse, the backup camera rearview image will not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the ICS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C14.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V342000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Consequence
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Additional Notes
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.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Consequence
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 23V675000
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Consequence
A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S55.
Additional Notes
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.
Campaign: 24V598000
ENGINE
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility Package. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Consequence
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S52.
Additional Notes
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.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 24V635000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
Consequence
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
Additional Notes
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.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 24V852000
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Additional Notes
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 nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V093000
SEAT BELTS
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. The seat belt buckle anchor bolts at one or more seating positions may be improperly secured. Additionally, vehicles may have an improperly secured seat belt retractor anchor bolt and/or seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped.
Consequence
A loose seat belt or seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect seat belt buckle anchor bolts in all seating positions. Additionally, dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor anchor bolt and seat belt anchor bolt at the second-row center seating position, if equipped. If loose anchor bolts are found, the affected seat components will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S09.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V159000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Consequence
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V166000
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 23V-199 or 22V-255. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Consequence
A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S22.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 25V393000
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Consequence
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Campaign: 25V442000
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Consequence
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Campaign: 25V455000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
Consequence
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The remedy is under development. Interim notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 16, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated March 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
Campaign: 25V685000
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
âŧ
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Consequence
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated February 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
NHTSA Investigations
7 investigations
Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2021 Explorer.
INV-2021-1000đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 36,047
INV-2021-1001đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 42,858
INV-2021-1002đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 30,745
INV-2021-1003đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 39,014
INV-2021-1004đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 21,348
INV-2021-1005đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 47,891
INV-2021-1006đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Explorer performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 51,554
Consumer Complaints
100 total complaints
Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Explorer.
Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis
Warning30%
Acceleration Issues9%
Accident5%
Engine/Powertrainđĩ Low
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V675000 (Power Train); however, the repair failed to prevent a failure shortly after the vehicle was serviced. The contact stated that after shifting from reverse(R) to drive(D), there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the vehicle before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was towed back to another local dealer, Sutton Ford (21315 Central Ave, Matteson, IL 60443); where it was diagnosed with a fractured rear axle bolt. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Electricalđĩ Low
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Adaptive Headlamps keep going out causing a safety issue.
Otherđļ Medium
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sliding roof mechanism for the sunroof failed and droops into the backseat impairing vision. This can be triggered accidentally while driving causing zero rear visibility. This is part of the sun roof that is the shade keeping the sun out of the car. With extremely little use on my 2021 ford explorer this mechanism has failed causing this dangerous malfunction. I found may posts in Facebook describing this same issue. [XXX] Thereâs just one example of many people having this issue. Thereâs component was taken to the Ford dealership where I was provided a verbal quote of more than $4,000 to fix, which is not feasible. There were no warning signs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
Recall #24V852000
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Engine/Powertrainđĩ Low
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V598000 (Engine). The local dealer was contacted and declined to complete the recall repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Otherđĩ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof shade is sagging. It broke from one day to the next, and itâs blocking my rear view.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
Recall #24V852000
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Otherđĩ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Sunshade is sagging. For the 2nd time.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
Recall #24V852000
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Otherđĩ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Panaromic sunroof blind became lose and is sagging, causing an unsafe driving experience, making it difficult to see out rear view mirrors.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
Recall #24V852000
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Engine/Powertrainđĩ Low
ENGINE
My explorer is only 4 years old and it suddenly suffered catastrophic engine failure due to low engine oil. The engine started knokcing and clattering BEFORE any warning lights came on the dash. This could also be due to premature bearing failure which is common in the 3.0 ecboost engines.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Otherđĩ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof sunshade snapped a clip off and now hangs down blocking the rear view. It is impossible to see out the back window. I have read on multiple sites that this is happening to many of these SUVs and it's an extremely expensive and difficult fix. It's very dangerous and I won't even let my girlfriend drive it anymore.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
Recall #24V852000
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Electricalđļ Medium
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
vehicle low beam headlights went out all of the sudden. Would not come back on after car was turned off and restarted. Drove home with high beams on. Next day, just the driver side low beam came back on. Took to dealer, they reprogrammed and headlights worked for three days, then went passenger low beam went out again. Took back to dealer and now they are telling me both headlamp control modules on both sides need replacing. The cost is very expensive and I am doubting this is the problem. This is a safety issue and I am reading blogs and the Platinum version of the Explorer seem to have issues. This could cause an accident and Ford could be liable. This issue needs to be looked at, as this should not be an issue for a car with 50K miles on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about the recalls on the 2021 Ford Explorer?
"The 2021 Ford Explorer has multiple recalls affecting its back-over prevention system and powertrain components. These issues could pose serious safety risks during operation, such as impaired visibility when reversing and potential engine instability while driving. It is crucial for current owners to ensure all recall repairs are completed promptly."
How does the mileage impact reliability in a family SUV like the Ford Explorer?
"Mileage plays a critical role in the reliability of family vehicles like the Ford Explorer. Many reported issues appear between 60k-80k miles, indicating that this is a pivotal range where families should be vigilant about maintenance checks and address any unusual performance signs immediately."
đYear-over-Year Context
âĄī¸Stable Pattern
Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows stable reliability patterns. No meaningful structural change detected in recall frequency between adjacent model years.
đ§What This Means for You
Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
đ
If You Own This Vehicle
Immediate Action: If any recalls are listed as 'incomplete', contact a certified FORD service centerârepairs are performed at no cost to you.
Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
Proactive tip: Enroll in FORD's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
đ
If You're Buying Used
Critical: Demand official documentation showing every FORD recall has been satisfied.
Investigate whether later Explorer iterations (2022+) rectified these persistent issues.
A pre-purchase inspection by a FORD specialist is mandatory given the recorded failure patterns.