The Ford Explorer is an iconic American SUV and one of the most capable, reliable vehicles in its class. But that doesn’t mean that it’s immune to recalls. There are too many unknown variables in car manufacturing, meaning some problems only become apparent on the road.
How many recalls has the 2020 Ford Explorer had so far?
As of September 2020, 5. These include:
- Vehicles may still be in factory mode
- Improperly assembled recliner mechanisms
- Wiring harness may short circuit
- Fuel lines may leak
- Loose side airbags
Read on, and we’ll discuss these recalls, how to find out if you’re affected, and what to do if you are.
Vehicles Left in Factory Mode
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V575000
With the potential to affect 13,896 2020 Explorers and Lincoln Aviators, this recall had to do with the vehicles being left in “factory mode.” What this means is that warning alerts are disabled, and the transmission gear will not be displayed. These vehicles were also missing Manual Park Release covers.
While this may not seem as if it could pose a safety hazard, it could make driving less safe as your vehicle is unable to let you know when something needs to be checked.
Ford sent a notification letter to owners on August 23, 2019 and began installing MPR covers and taking the instrument cluster out of factory mode under recall number 19C06.
Improperly Assembled Recliner Mechanism
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V633000
Affecting 639,137 potential units, including several F-series trucks, Expeditions, Escapes, and 2018–2020 Explorers, this recall concerned a recliner mechanism missing the third pawl.
What this essentially came down to is that the seats were not properly secured to the floor of the SUV. In transit, this is merely annoying. In an accident, it could be disastrous.
Ford issued letters to owners on October 21, 2019 and began replacing the affected parts under the recall number 19C07.
Wiring Harness May Come into Contact With A/C Pulley or Belt
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V687000
Affecting 10,655 potential 2020 Explorers carrying 2.3L and 3.3L engines, this recall had to do with a wiring harness that was not properly secured. This left it prone to coming in contact with the A/C compressor pulley or the belt, which could cause damage to both components.
At the very least, this is going to damage your car’s electrical system. In a worst-case scenario, it could even spark a fire.
Ford notified owners on October 21, 2019 and began repairs, essentially involving tying the wiring harness up and getting it out of the way. The recall number was 19S32.
Fuel Lines May Chafe Together and Leak
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V859000
Affecting 3,857 2020 Explorers and Aviators, this recall had to do with vapor fuel lines rubbing together, causing a potential leak.
A fuel leak is a major fire hazard. Even if you can avoid the worst of it, it’s wasteful at the very least.
Ford notified owners on March 23, 2020 and began equipping the fuel lines with protective sleeves and replacing any parts that needed replacing under the recall number 19S49.
Loose Side Airbags
NHTSA Recall ID: 20V497000
This recall affected 488 potential 2020 Explorers and Aviators. It had to do with a side airbag that may not have been properly secured to the front seatbacks.
If the airbags are not working correctly, then the risk of injury in the event of an accident goes way up.
Ford set the start date of September 7, 2020 for this recall, with plans to tighten the fasteners and replace parts as necessary under the recall number 20S48.
How to Handle an Open Recall
Managing open recalls on your vehicle couldn’t be easier:
- Write down your Vehicle Identification Number.
- Type it into the NHTSA VIN lookup tool.
- If you find any open recalls, call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 to find out where to go for your free repairs.
That’s really all there is to it. The repairs are offered for the lifetime of your vehicle, and Ford will always foot the bill.
