2018 Ford Explorer Problems & Owner Complaints

Structure 286 4 crash

“The driver side Keyless door entry pillar has come off on the highway and hit something. The keyless door entry panel came off in 2023 and Koons Ford of Annapolis charged me $ 523.00 to fix the panel. The panel has a small clip and double stick tape. Sorry, double stick tape is not going to hold up to weather variations throughout the year, wind speed and age. Terrible and dangerous design. You gave 2017 a Recall 25S53 for ford but NOT 2018”
NHTSA complaint #11741782, 2026 · crash

“I was driving on the freeway when one of my A pillers flew off and cause the person behind me to loose control of their car. About 5 min later the other a piller flew off almost causing an accident with a semi and trailer.”
NHTSA complaint #11565318, 2024 · crash

“BOTH. VEHICLES WERE MOVING. THE EXPLORER FRONT HIT THE RIGHT REAR PANEL OF A 2011 FORD RANGER. BOTH VEHICLES WERE GOING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. NO INJURIES SUSTAINED BY EITHER DRIVER. MY FORD EXPLORER AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I WAS ON A CITY STREET THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS JUST BEGINNING TO TURN.”
NHTSA complaint #11282767, 2019 · crash

Unknown Or Other 162 2 crash 1 fire 3 injury

“WE TOOK OUR 2018 FORD EXPLORER INTO THE SHOP LAST WINTER COMPLAINING OF A BAD SMELL. THE SHOP KEPT OUR CAR FOR ABOUT 5 DAYS AND SAID THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG. 2 WEEKS AGO MY WIFE WENT TO THE ER AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. WE BEGAN WORKING WITH FOR TO HELP GET THIS FIXED, 5 DAYS LATER SHE PASSED OUT AT THE WHEEL AND WRECKED INTO A TELEPHONE POLL. WHILE AT THE ER THERE WAS CARBON MONOXIDE IN HER BLOOD AGAIN. THANK GOODNESS SHE DIDN'T HIT A FAMILY OR SOMETHING WORSE. SINCE THEN FORD HAS REFUSED TO WORK WITH US SINCE THE CAR IS WRECKED. THIS IS A PROBLEM AND NEEDS TO BE…”
NHTSA complaint #11385749, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I Drove Explorer directly to Mayo Clinic in MN shorty after the purchase. It would smell like sulpher at times, gasoline, exhaust and I was getting very poor fuel economy. Averaging 17-2. I got extremely sick and confused and had severe headaches and nausea, vertigo, congnitive impairments, burning eyes and all I wanted to do was sleep. I felt fluish and I got confused while going to Mayo for testing. Well, I didn’t make it to my appointment, I couldn’t even figure out how to book a hotel or get cash. I ended up lifeless and chose to stay in the Explorer overnight due to the severe fatigu…”
NHTSA complaint #11531793, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“EXHAUST FUMES ARE ENTERING THE CABIN DURING ACCELERATION AND WHEN THE AC IS ON. SEVERAL FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE SMELL WITHIN THE CABIN. I PERSONALLY HAVE EXPERIENCED HEADACHES AND BURNING EYES BECAUSE OF THE ISSUE. IT SMELLS LIKE BURNT HAIR. THIS IS A FAMILY VEHICLE USED TO TRANSPORT MY ENTIRE FAMILY INCLUDING MY 5 MONTH OLD BABY. THIS SMELL IS MAKING EVERYONE NAUSEOUS.”
NHTSA complaint #11111383, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

Engine 93 2 crash 2 fire 4 injury

“WE TOOK OUR 2018 FORD EXPLORER INTO THE SHOP LAST WINTER COMPLAINING OF A BAD SMELL. THE SHOP KEPT OUR CAR FOR ABOUT 5 DAYS AND SAID THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG. 2 WEEKS AGO MY WIFE WENT TO THE ER AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING. WE BEGAN WORKING WITH FOR TO HELP GET THIS FIXED, 5 DAYS LATER SHE PASSED OUT AT THE WHEEL AND WRECKED INTO A TELEPHONE POLL. WHILE AT THE ER THERE WAS CARBON MONOXIDE IN HER BLOOD AGAIN. THANK GOODNESS SHE DIDN'T HIT A FAMILY OR SOMETHING WORSE. SINCE THEN FORD HAS REFUSED TO WORK WITH US SINCE THE CAR IS WRECKED. THIS IS A PROBLEM AND NEEDS TO BE…”
NHTSA complaint #11385749, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2018 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT DETECTED AN ABNORMAL FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE THAT WAS SO STRONG, SHE COULD TASTE FUEL. TOWNE AUTO GROUP (3535 SOUTHWESTERN BLVD, ORCHARD PARK, NY 14127, (716) 662-6500) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE, DIAGNOSE, AND PROVIDE A REMEDY AFTER SEVERAL VISITS. THE DEALER LATER REPLACED THE DOOR SEALS, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V807000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A PASSENGER INSIDE THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED NA…”
NHTSA complaint #11166470, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

“EXHAUST FUMES ENTERING THE VEHICLE. FORD ENGINEER INSPECTED AND FOUND 3PPM ENTERING CABIN IN LESS THAN AN HOUR. FORD STATES THIS IS NORMAL. OVER 3 HOURS IN THE CAR CAUSES PHYSICAL ILLNESS, FORD DENYING ANY RESPONSIBILITY. VEHICLE IN MOTION ON HIGHWAY OVER 40MPH. FORD ENGINEERING REPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ME WITHIN THE NEXT 48 HOURS. CAUSED PHYSICAL ILLNESS, DIZZINESS AND VOMITING.”
NHTSA complaint #11142733, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

Electrical System 56 2 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“I Drove Explorer directly to Mayo Clinic in MN shorty after the purchase. It would smell like sulpher at times, gasoline, exhaust and I was getting very poor fuel economy. Averaging 17-2. I got extremely sick and confused and had severe headaches and nausea, vertigo, congnitive impairments, burning eyes and all I wanted to do was sleep. I felt fluish and I got confused while going to Mayo for testing. Well, I didn’t make it to my appointment, I couldn’t even figure out how to book a hotel or get cash. I ended up lifeless and chose to stay in the Explorer overnight due to the severe fatigu…”
NHTSA complaint #11531793, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“EXHAUST FUMES ARE ENTERING THE CABIN DURING ACCELERATION AND WHEN THE AC IS ON. SEVERAL FAMILY MEMBERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE SMELL WITHIN THE CABIN. I PERSONALLY HAVE EXPERIENCED HEADACHES AND BURNING EYES BECAUSE OF THE ISSUE. IT SMELLS LIKE BURNT HAIR. THIS IS A FAMILY VEHICLE USED TO TRANSPORT MY ENTIRE FAMILY INCLUDING MY 5 MONTH OLD BABY. THIS SMELL IS MAKING EVERYONE NAUSEOUS.”
NHTSA complaint #11111383, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

“I was pulling into my apartment division I heard a loud pop and the vehicle then died. I tried starting it back up and it then caught on fire. My door locks were stuck in the locked position and I could not get them to unlock. Within a few seconds (which felt like several minutes) the doors did unlock and I was able to get out. There were no warning lights or messages prior to this. Fire department did arrive and put out the fire. The car was a total loss. Report has been filed with insurance company. I purchased this car from BX Fort Myers LLC. I just purchased this vehicle from them an…”
NHTSA complaint #11659235, 2025 · fire

Power Train 46 1 crash

“The driver side Keyless door entry pillar has come off on the highway and hit something. The keyless door entry panel came off in 2023 and Koons Ford of Annapolis charged me $ 523.00 to fix the panel. The panel has a small clip and double stick tape. Sorry, double stick tape is not going to hold up to weather variations throughout the year, wind speed and age. Terrible and dangerous design. You gave 2017 a Recall 25S53 for ford but NOT 2018”
NHTSA complaint #11741782, 2026 · crash

“This vehicle was inspected by a certified Ford dealership (Premier Ford, Service Advisor: Harry). Ford Motor Company’s Consumer Affairs Department subsequently reviewed the case under Complaint ID: XXX. In their official written response, Ford explicitly admitted the root cause, stating: "the vehicle experienced a failure to the harness for the alternator which melted due to heat from the exhaust." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11750708, 2026

“Less that 100k miles and my transmission already needs replaced. Last year my engine was sputtering making my car jerk while driving went to shop they did a total transmission fluid changed but said my transmission is likely going bad it helped mostly and I had high hopes the problem was solved it was not fast forward to now my transmission went then caused the torque converter to go my car was shaking so bad while stopped and in drive in order to go i had to put my foot all the way to the floor and quickly move to the break sometimes my car would fly other times it would take so long to go t…”
NHTSA complaint #11745795, 2026

Engine And Engine Cooling 29 1 fire 1 injury

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormally strong odor of fumes throughout the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had to roll down the wind to remove the odor from inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the odor caused her to constantly be nauseated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who performed an HVAC update on the vehicle however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that medical attention was not sought. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failu…”
NHTSA complaint #11450797, 2021 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE AND NOTICED AN ABNORMAL ODOR COMING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING VENTS. THE ODOR SMELLED SIMILAR TO BURNING FUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO COURTESY FORD (LOCATED AT 1107 BRASHEAR AVE, MORGAN CITY, LA 70380, (985) 492-7260) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ODOR EMITTED FROM THE COATING ON THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A SMOKE TEST WAS ALSO PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. A REPAIR WAS MADE INSIDE THE DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL WELL. THE CONTACT TEST DROVE TWO SEPARATE…”
NHTSA complaint #11133132, 2018 · fire

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence and then to an independent mechanic shop, where a full diagnostic inspection was not performed; however, the mechanic suspected that coolant bubbled internally and the contact was informed that the head gasket might need to be replaced. The mechanic was unable to disassemble the engine for further inspection. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer, who diagnosed that the water pump needed to be replaced, and th…”
NHTSA complaint #11749329, 2026

Back Over Prevention 26

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the A-pillar trim was beginning to detach from the windshield, allowing outside air to enter the vehicle. While in reverse, the back over prevention camera displayed a distorted image, or a solid blue screen without an image. The failure occurred several times while shifting into reverse.…”
NHTSA complaint #11722988, 2025

“The reverse camera does not work, when the car is in reverse.there is no visual on the monitor, which makes it unsafe when the car is in reverse, took the car to the dealer, was told that this car is not in recall”
NHTSA complaint #11705561, 2025

“My rear view camera goes to a dark blue or gray s screen with the words “check surroundings for safety” & “Camera is unavailable” and it does not work. This is the same recall issue that is on 1,900+ plus vehicles from a recall. I have called and filled a complain with Ford and have visited 3 dealers in our area and that is what they tell me. I have photos and I need this repair done ASAP because I travel with an [XXX] I’ve called Ford four different times since July and I keep getting the run around and visit different t dealers that tell me that it is the same problem as the recall but the…”
NHTSA complaint #11688234, 2025

Suspension 21 2 crash

“Driving about 50mph on dry country road, good visibility, when suddenly car pulled hard right. We went onto a grass embankment, I managed to pull left back onto the road, but car fish-tailed uncontrollably, we hit crash barrier, and finally came to a stop. Badly shaken but no injuries. Examining car, besides body damage, most notably rear drivers side wheel was mis-aligned with car by about 15 degrees. Photo of suspension I took shows broken toe-link, subsequently confirmed by body shop and loss adjuster. The car had new rear struts 2 days earlier, but at that time no report of a broken toe-li…”
NHTSA complaint #11494672, 2022 · crash

“The contact called in for a client who owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact works at an independently owned auto body shop. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed into the body shop for inspection. While inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the driver’s rear toe link had fractured. The contact stated that while the owner of the vehicle was driving at an undisclosed speed, he lost control of the vehicle and spun out, and ran off the road causing damage to the vehicle. The contact stated that he was called by the State Police to tow the vehicle. The contact was unaware…”
NHTSA complaint #11494693, 2022 · crash

“On March 25, 2026, an authorized Ford dealership in Florida performed a safety recall involving the rear suspension toe links. The recall addressed a condition that Ford states can result in loss of steering control and increased crash risk. After the recall was completed, I drove approximately 1,200 miles home believing the safety defect had been corrected. After returning home, I began experiencing rear-end instability. The vehicle would sway when driving over even small bumps. I took the vehicle to another authorized Ford dealership, which confirmed the original recall repair had not been…”
NHTSA complaint #11754682, 2026

Steering 20 1 crash

“Around 4:45 , was unable to access cruise control the message rapidly flashed., loss of headlights and all lighting for a few seconds. Was going 70 mph. I exited the interstate to turn around and go to my work on southbound the wrench light came on and I lost power steering, power, acceleration in my turn on the on ramp and proceeded off the road onto the incline somehow avoiding a rollover and teetering sideways. Meanwhile no power to open my window etc. at an angle where I couldn’t open the door, took a minute to get out of the seatbelt. Suddenly got my window able to open and crawled out. T…”
NHTSA complaint #11511692, 2023 · crash

“The horn on my vehicle activates (blows) when I turn the steering wheel to certain positions. I believe this to be a road hazard. Especially since I had to remove the horn relay to prevent the horn from blowing in traffic until I can get it repaired. Several other Ford vehicles have been recalled for this exact problem. Just to diagnose this problem at the Ford dealer is $170.00. Help!”
NHTSA complaint #11741587, 2026

“After replacing the newest recall for the rear toe link on my Explorer, I’ve noticed (along with a couple others on some forums) that the alignment does not stay set and will come undone. I finished driving 1000 miles after the swap and had sudden pressure loss in my rear tire. When I looked at it the entire outside of the tire on both driver and passenger side were completely eaten through and I’m not made of enough money to keep replacing tires and keep getting alignments done. I do have a video of my inside cam of when it happened if requested.”
NHTSA complaint #11727653, 2026

Fuel/Propulsion System 19 1 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“I Drove Explorer directly to Mayo Clinic in MN shorty after the purchase. It would smell like sulpher at times, gasoline, exhaust and I was getting very poor fuel economy. Averaging 17-2. I got extremely sick and confused and had severe headaches and nausea, vertigo, congnitive impairments, burning eyes and all I wanted to do was sleep. I felt fluish and I got confused while going to Mayo for testing. Well, I didn’t make it to my appointment, I couldn’t even figure out how to book a hotel or get cash. I ended up lifeless and chose to stay in the Explorer overnight due to the severe fatigu…”
NHTSA complaint #11531793, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT LEASED A 2018 FORD EXPLORER. THE CONTACT DETECTED AN ABNORMAL FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE THAT WAS SO STRONG, SHE COULD TASTE FUEL. TOWNE AUTO GROUP (3535 SOUTHWESTERN BLVD, ORCHARD PARK, NY 14127, (716) 662-6500) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE, DIAGNOSE, AND PROVIDE A REMEDY AFTER SEVERAL VISITS. THE DEALER LATER REPLACED THE DOOR SEALS, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V807000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A PASSENGER INSIDE THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED NA…”
NHTSA complaint #11166470, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

“I own a Ford Explorer 2018 bought as second hand in July 2020. For the last three years, the investment in it has been exponential. Finally working with a proper car mechanic, I understood that all the fixes I have made, have been known for a while. I have received several recalls and searching for more, I found one that **I did not receiveD*** and I'm having an issue with it. It can be seen in the attached document. Research shows that "the 2018 Ford Explorer has significant, well-documented complaints, primarily regarding catastrophic water pump failure, transmission issues, and multiple rec…”
NHTSA complaint #11730439, 2026 · fire

Visibility/Wiper 16

“The windshield wiper motor failed, causing the windshield wipers to stop operating properly. At the same time, the windshield washer system is unable to spray washer fluid onto the windshield. This significantly reduces visibility during rain and when the windshield becomes dirty, creating a safety hazard. No warning lights were displayed”
NHTSA complaint #11750024, 2026

“The windshield wipers do not work, the rear wiper do not work and the wiper fluid does not squirt out. It can be inspected. The safety of everyone is at risk because I can't clean my windshield to make the road visible. I have recently seen a recall involving Ford vehicles regarding the windshield wipers not working. And I think it needs to include more years because mine is affected also. It started glitching about a year ago and now doesn't work at all. No lights come on and there is fluid in the wiper tank.”
NHTSA complaint #11729720, 2025

“During a storm, our SUV had water leaking in through the top, middle of the windshield. The water soaked the dashboard controls and our heating/air system was stuck on high heat and would not turn off. It was 70° and it was extremely hot in the SUV and the windows kept fogging up making it hard to see. Our temperature controls no longer work properly.”
NHTSA complaint #11707788, 2025

Visibility 11

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the driver’s side windshield was cracked. The contact also stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware of a crack on the passenger’s side windshield. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a…”
NHTSA complaint #11588562, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked when there was heavy rain in the area. The contact stated that after the heavy rain passed when they were placing items in the back seat, they noticed that water was in the cup holder. The contact discovered a crack in the sunroof allowing water to enter the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure recurred multiple times. The contact was concerned that there was no impact on the sunroof to have caused it to crack. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with a cracked sunroof fr…”
NHTSA complaint #11578558, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the front windshield was disintegrating. There were no warning lights illuminated. While driving, the contact detected that there was an abnormal chirping noise and wind entering the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had gradually progressed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the cowl screen panel needed to be replaced. The sealant around the windshield had disintegrated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the repair was not cove…”
NHTSA complaint #11554038, 2023

Air Bags 10 2 crash 1 injury

“When driving the car I corrected to move further to the left on the road. In doing so it felt like I ran over something and all of a sudden the car accelerated (initially I was driving around 20-25 mph) and I struck a tree. I sustained a T Spine fracture and was hospitalized for 5 days. I just have a case number with Ford but they seem disinterested. When the car accelerated I felt it was going a 2x the speed.”
NHTSA complaint #11468893, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“BOTH. VEHICLES WERE MOVING. THE EXPLORER FRONT HIT THE RIGHT REAR PANEL OF A 2011 FORD RANGER. BOTH VEHICLES WERE GOING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. NO INJURIES SUSTAINED BY EITHER DRIVER. MY FORD EXPLORER AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I WAS ON A CITY STREET THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS JUST BEGINNING TO TURN.”
NHTSA complaint #11282767, 2019 · crash

“The airbag light shown in the attached photo came on at an unknown period of time. We did not know when this came on that it was not a normal light. This is a safety issue as there are many causes for this light to come on, and with this light being on the airbag may not deploy properly or at all during a collision. We did take the vehicle to the Ford dealership for warranty work and they did not say anything about the light on the dash. Which adds to the reason why we did not know that the light meant there was a problem. There are other airbag lights that come on in the sinners console for t…”
NHTSA complaint #11743561, 2026

Service Brakes 10 3 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“My vehicle has defect in the electronic power brake assist system that lead to extended stopping distances and cause me to hit someone from behind.”
NHTSA complaint #11684671, 2024 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 FORD EXPLORER. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, SHE WAS INFORMED BY A PASSING MOTORIST THAT HER VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE SAFELY BEFORE IT BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOTIFIED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. STATE FARM AUTO INSURANCE COMPLETED A FIRE ASSESSMENT AND STATED THAT THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY A FAILURE WITH THE BRAKE LINES. HINES PARK FORD INC (LOCATED AT 56558 PONTIAC TRAIL, NEW HUDSON, MI 48165, (888) 482-7660) AND THE MA…”
NHTSA complaint #11123513, 2018 · fire

“July 12, 2026 I returned home and parked about 10 ft from my garage. I put my car in park, turned off the motor, and went to get out, when my husband started yelling at me that the car was moving. I pumped the brake, and heard a clicking sound. The car wouldn't stop, it ran into my house. Cracking my left headlight and denting my bumper. The car was in park, and I was unable to move the steering wheel. I had no control of the car. Thank goodness no one was standing in front of me. If it had happened just a short time before when I was at a splash pad full of children, it could have killed peop…”
NHTSA complaint #11751929, 2026 · crash

Tires 9

“All 4 Tires Size 255/50R20 Have Cracked, Split and separated around tread. Extremely unsafe. Vehicle has near 40,000 miles. Vehicle was purchased in May 2018 with these tires already installed. There needs to be a recall, as now we will need to purchase 4 new tires at one time when this should not have happened. We can not use our vehicle until we can replace all 4.”
NHTSA complaint #11513333, 2023

“i notice that my car is sliding in somewhat wet terrain situations. I did notice it last year but didn't think at 24k miles my tire treads were bad. I had my car serviced and they are telling me at 32K miles I need new tires and they are bad. These tires are warranted for 50K miles. There are rubber tears at the tread and well as complete baldness. Terrible! Had I been driving much this winter there would no doubt be a incident. These are a issue on all 4 tires. I see there are many complaints with these Hankook Ventus Noble tires. Something needs to be done or recalled. We are the…”
NHTSA complaint #11466345, 2022

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer equipped with four Hankook tires, Tire line: Ventus S1 Noble S2, Tire Size 255/50/R20. DOT Number: 5mnb1ah1218. The contact stated while having a routine inspection was informed that the rear driver and passenger tires needed to be replaced due to unusual wear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where they were unable to determine the failure cause. The manufacturer was not notified. The tire mileage was 50,000. The failure mileage was 14,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11421618, 2021

Vehicle Speed Control 9 1 crash 1 injury

“When driving the car I corrected to move further to the left on the road. In doing so it felt like I ran over something and all of a sudden the car accelerated (initially I was driving around 20-25 mph) and I struck a tree. I sustained a T Spine fracture and was hospitalized for 5 days. I just have a case number with Ford but they seem disinterested. When the car accelerated I felt it was going a 2x the speed.”
NHTSA complaint #11468893, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“- I have experienced a sudden loss of engine power and speed on 5 occasions. Very scary and dangerous to completely lose power on the highway with cars behind you. Had to pull off onto the shoulder(s) in dangerous conditions, with two young kids in the backseat. Hazards, turn off the car, restart the car, etc. - When the power loss happens, the vehicle's dashboard lights turn on, including the engine and wrench icons along with the words "See Manual." - Based on my research, I believe it may be due to a defective throttle body and/or software, related to the "terrain management system."…”
NHTSA complaint #11706887, 2025

“On September 27th 2023 I brought my vehicle in because it was having shifting and vibration issues. To shop notice that the information I gave them was related to the transmission and with further review there was a recall on the transmission part of me coming into the shop. Which I wasn't aware of even when I brought my vehicle in months before that for recall maintenance. I had to pay for my transmission to be repaired we should have been done by Ford. The car was driving fine until early this year when it starts to do the vibration that was the issue previous when my transmission was going…”
NHTSA complaint #11672297, 2025

Wheels 8

“After replacing the newest recall for the rear toe link on my Explorer, I’ve noticed (along with a couple others on some forums) that the alignment does not stay set and will come undone. I finished driving 1000 miles after the swap and had sudden pressure loss in my rear tire. When I looked at it the entire outside of the tire on both driver and passenger side were completely eaten through and I’m not made of enough money to keep replacing tires and keep getting alignments done. I do have a video of my inside cam of when it happened if requested.”
NHTSA complaint #11727653, 2026

“Right rear tire outside shoulder wear. alignment has been checked twice. Always within factory specs. Factory specs for camber on that wheel are not right. Vehicle handles poorly in slushy conditions. In many instances that is a sign of wheels out of alignment.”
NHTSA complaint #11435799, 2021

“THE TWO FRONT HANKOOK TIRES HAVE WEAR IN THE FORM OF FLAKING RUBBER AROUND THE WHOLE TIRE. AT ABOUT 10,000 MILES, WE WENT TO FORD TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT AND THEY REFERRED US TO THE TIRE STORE. THEY SAID IT WAS FINE, BUT AS I LOOK AT THE OTHER COMPLAINTS, IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THESE TIRES HAVE A FLAW AND THERE SHOULD BE SOME COMPENSATION GIVEN. AT 32,000 MILES OF CITY ROAD DRIVING, THE TIRES HAD TO BE REPLACED.”
NHTSA complaint #11366182, 2020

Seat Belts 7 1 crash 1 injury

“VEHICLE WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY A PICK-UP TRUCK DRIVING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. UPON IMPACT MY VEHICLE'S FRONT SEATS COLLAPSED INTO THE BACK SEATS CAUSING THE SEAT BELTS TO BE INEFFECTIVE. AS A RESULT THE PASSENGER IN MY VEHICLE SUSTAINED BACK AND NECK INJURIES. MY VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AS THE TRAFFIC WAS AT A STANDSTILL. THE VEHICLE THAT STRUCK MY VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 70 MILES PER HOUR.”
NHTSA complaint #11278137, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the driver's side front seat belt failed to click securely into the buckle. The seat belt warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V093000 (Seat Belts); however, the VIN was not included. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11750883, 2026

“One of my backseat seatbelt buckles is completely broken and the other side has a crack in the plastic casing in the same spot but not as big. And the insides of the buckle where it locks in there is nothing for it to lock onto. One still works as the other one has nothing for it to lock into. Yes it can be inspected. It puts my passengers at risk if they can't buckle up. It has never been inspected or looked at by anyone”
NHTSA complaint #11729729, 2025

Seats 7 1 crash 3 injury

“VEHICLE WAS STRUCK FROM BEHIND BY A PICK-UP TRUCK DRIVING AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. UPON IMPACT MY VEHICLE'S FRONT SEATS COLLAPSED INTO THE BACK SEATS CAUSING THE SEAT BELTS TO BE INEFFECTIVE. AS A RESULT THE PASSENGER IN MY VEHICLE SUSTAINED BACK AND NECK INJURIES. MY VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AS THE TRAFFIC WAS AT A STANDSTILL. THE VEHICLE THAT STRUCK MY VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 70 MILES PER HOUR.”
NHTSA complaint #11278137, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“REACHING UNDER DRIVER SEAT AND CONTACTED SEAT FRAME SHARP AND CUT FINGER.”
NHTSA complaint #11299566, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“WHILE TRAVELING THROUGH BALTIMORE FOR APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY. I WAS SITTING IN THE BACK SEAT OF MY FRIENDS 2018 FORD EXPLORER SPORT. I HAD THE HEATED SEAT SET TO 2. I HAD FALLEN ASLEEP DURING THE TRIP. WHEN I WOKE UP I HAD A SEVERE DISCOMFORT. UPON ARRIVING AT OUR DESTINATION MY FRIEND LOOKED TO SEE WHY I WAS IN SUCH PAIN. ON MY LEFT BUTTOCK WAS A LARGE BURN. I HAVE ENCLOSED A PICTURE OF THE BURN I RECEIVED. THE BURN HAS BLISTERED AND IS NOW AN OPEN WOUND. THIS OCCURRED ON CHRISTMAS EVE. I HAVE BEEN TREATING THE AREA WITH BURN OINTMENT.”
NHTSA complaint #11163734, 2018 · 1 injury(ies)

Forward Collision Avoidance 5 2 crash 1 injury

“My vehicle has defect in the electronic power brake assist system that lead to extended stopping distances and cause me to hit someone from behind.”
NHTSA complaint #11684671, 2024 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I have had three incidents of total brake failure on this vehicle. First, about 3 months ago I could not stop while parking in my garage and hit a work bench. I chalked it up to just a weird low speed incident as the brakes worked fine the next time I drove it. Second, I was traveling on wet roads and 27 degree weather and could not stop for a yellow light. At the time I attributed it to an icey skid because, again, the brakes worked fine the next time I needed them. But in retrospect, I do not recall any feeling that the brakes were working. Lastly, today I rear ended a car in front of m…”
NHTSA complaint #11510604, 2023 · crash

“Have had the vehicle for less than a year have had nothing but lil problems but recently have gotten a cranking noise, transmission / coolant leaking under the vehicle. Also have water leaking from the exhaust line when car is in park. Driving back from work early in the morning a sounded like a big pop not sure what it have may been took it to the mechanic ass well twice an got it diagnosed an they’re response was they couldn’t find the problem. The area I’ve seen an heard the clunking the most would be under the vehicle at the center by the catalyst converter. Transmission jerks as well I’v…”
NHTSA complaint #11529461, 2023

Equipment 4

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that initially, the infotainment screen would intermittently fail to operate upon the start of the vehicle without warning. Recently, the contact stated that the infotainment screen had completely failed and that the screen had remained blank while the vehicle was in operation. Due to the failure, the back over prevention camera was inoperable. The contact called the manufacturer who then referred him to the NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11452194, 2021

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving 70 mph on the highway, y a piece of Sop A-pillar trim came off on the passenger side. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the pillar trim to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11451873, 2021

Exterior Lighting 4

“Vehicle is equipped with operational red and blue lights that are prohibited under the color of law, and facilitates criminal activity upon a purchase agreement. Seller has actual knowledge and can be liable under the color of law. Vehicle has open recalls.”
NHTSA complaint #11728815, 2026

“Intermittent failures of both front turn signals and parking lamps due to wiring failure. The turn signals and parking lights on both sides of the front end of the vehicle sometimes failed to illuminate correctly. Upon investigation, failed wiring was found on the jumpers between the main engine bay harness and the lamp sockets. The wire insulation had become brittle and was flaking away, causing electrical shorts. The same failures were present on both sides. Only that short jumper segment experienced the issue, all other wiring in the engine bay was fine. The faulty wiring jumpers are av…”
NHTSA complaint #11706170, 2025

“DRIVING IN THE DARK AND PASSENGER SIDE HEADLIGHT WENT OUT. GOT DIAGNOSED THAT IT WAS A BAD LIGHT HOUSING.GOT VARIOUS PRICES FROM 700 TO 1200 DOLLARS. NOW THE LIGHT WORKS .WAS OUT FOR 3 WEEKS DECIDED TO COME BACK ON.WELL I WOULD ASSUME ITS NOT THE HEADLIGHT OR JUST FAULTY ELECTRONICS. NOT SURE ANY HEKP?”
NHTSA complaint #11373866, 2020

Fuel System 4 1 injury

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a strong, gas odor would emit through the vehicle without warning. Due to the fuel odor, he began to suffer from blurred vision, nausea, and headaches. The contact had sought medical attention for his symptoms. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer on two occasions and each time the dealer could not detect a failure. The contact also mentioned that once he began to drive a rental vehicle, his symptoms began to go away. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had…”
NHTSA complaint #11436662, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. While the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact stated another driver with a tow truck assisted and towed the vehicle off the highway to a safe location. The contact stated after the vehicle sat for three hours, the vehicle was restarted, and driven to the contact's residence. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice within one week. The…”
NHTSA complaint #11673416, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle jerked forward and backward. The contact stated that the vehicle was driven back onto the driveway. The contact turned off the vehicle and the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with throttle body failure that was seized closed. The contact was informed that the throttle body needed to be replaced. The vehicle was…”
NHTSA complaint #11623531, 2024

Lane Departure 2

“Radio and back up screen stop working 1 month after purchase.”
NHTSA complaint #11629482, 2023

“Our radio and back up assistance screen just stop working”
NHTSA complaint #11606566, 2023

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the A-pillar trims on the front passenger’s side and the front driver's side became loosened. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at 70 MPH, the hood unexpectedly opened. The contact st…”
NHTSA complaint #11682266, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the tailgate had failed to open. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the tailgate latch had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11674260, 2025

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 1

“FOR WEEKS NOW THE CAR HAS BEEN DECIDING WHAT TO DO. THE AIR CONDITIONER RANDOMLY TURNS OFF OR WON'T TURN ON. THE WINDOW WON'T ROLL UP OR DOWN. LIGHTS IN THE DASHBOARD RANDOMLY GO ON AND OFF ALL THE TIME. SOMETIMES THERE IS JUST A LOUD NOISE BUT NO LIGHTS. THEN RECENTLY WHEN I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY GOING 55 MPH WITH MY 3 CHILDREN THE CAR SHUT ITS SELF OFF. THE LIGHTS WENT CRAZY THEN SHUT OFF. THERE WAS NO GAS OR BRAKES AS I WAS GOING 55 MPH. ONCE THE CAR CAME TO A ROLLING STOP. IT DID NOT TURN BACK ON. ONCE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY CANNOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG.”
NHTSA complaint #11310401, 2020