Ford Explorer recalls and complaints, 2015–2016, 2019, 2021, 2024
Every tracked model year in one table: NHTSA recalls, owner complaints and what they are about.
NHTSA lists 48 recall campaigns and 4,996 owner complaints for the Ford Explorer model years VinSnap tracks (2015–2016, 2019, 2021, 2024). The most-recalled systems are back over prevention (8), power train (7) and suspension (6). Owners complain most about the structure (1,169), steering (893) and engine (675). The 2016 model year has the most complaints (2,450, next is 2015 with 1,791); raw counts are not adjusted for sales or years on the road. Complaints report 97 crashes, 21 fires and 186 injuries.
Last updated: · Source: NHTSA recalls and complaints databases
Ford Explorer recalls and complaints by model year
| Model year | Recalls | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 9 | 1,791 | 37 | 1 | 98 | 0 |
| 2016 | 15 | 2,450 | 39 | 14 | 59 | 0 |
| 2019 | 6 | 296 | 2 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| 2021 | 26 | 433 | 17 | 5 | 19 | 0 |
| 2024 | 10 | 26 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 0 |
Recall and complaint counts per model year from NHTSA. Crash, fire, injury and death figures are what owners reported in their complaints, not confirmed findings. Year links open that year's specs, recall list and complaint breakdown.
Most-recalled systems
| System | Recall campaigns | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| Back over prevention | 8 | 2015, 2021, 2024 |
| Power train | 7 | 2015–2016, 2021, 2024 |
| Suspension | 6 | 2015–2016, 2019, 2021 |
| Seats | 5 | 2016, 2019, 2021, 2024 |
| Structure | 4 | 2015–2016, 2019 |
| Equipment | 3 | 2016, 2019, 2021, 2024 |
| Engine | 2 | 2021 |
| Engine and engine cooling | 2 | 2016, 2021 |
| Fuel system, gasoline | 2 | 2016, 2021 |
| Seat belts | 2 | 2021, 2024 |
Most-complained-about components
| Component | Complaints | Share | Year with most |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | 1,169 | 23% | 2016 (585) |
| Unknown or other | 967 | 19% | 2016 (428) |
| Steering | 893 | 18% | 2016 (529) |
| Engine | 675 | 14% | 2016 (381) |
| Power train | 459 | 9% | 2016 (214) |
| Electrical system | 283 | 6% | 2016 (125) |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 223 | 4% | 2016 (104) |
| Engine and engine cooling | 196 | 4% | 2016 (114) |
| Air bags | 194 | 4% | 2016 (99) |
| Suspension | 185 | 4% | 2015 (83) |
A complaint can name more than one component, so shares can add up to more than 100%.
Which NHTSA model names are counted
NHTSA files recalls and complaints under exact model names. This page adds up: EXPLORER, EXPLORER HEV.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Ford Explorer have?
NHTSA lists 48 recall campaigns across the Ford Explorer model years 2015–2016, 2019, 2021, 2024, most often for the back over prevention (8), power train (7) and suspension (6).
Which Ford Explorer year has the most complaints?
Of the years VinSnap tracks, the 2016 Ford Explorer has the most NHTSA complaints (2,450), ahead of the 2015 (1,791). Counts are not adjusted for how many were sold or how long they have been on the road.
What do Ford Explorer owners complain about most?
Across 2015–2016, 2019, 2021, 2024, NHTSA complaints most often name the structure (1,169 complaints), steering (893 complaints) and engine (675 complaints).
Are Ford Explorer recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are done free of charge by franchised Ford dealers. Recalls apply to specific build ranges, so check your VIN to see which campaigns cover your vehicle.