Recalls · problems · safety

2018 Ford Explorer: recalls and problems

7 recalls and 733 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is structure.

7recalls
733complaints
15crashes reported
7fires reported
12injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Structure290 · 40%
  • Unknown Or Other168 · 23%
  • Engine94 · 13%
  • Electrical System53 · 7%
  • Power Train50 · 7%
  • Engine And Engine Cooling29 · 4%
  • Back Over Prevention26 · 4%
  • Suspension23 · 3%
  • Steering20 · 3%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System19 · 3%

What owners report

Structure

Exterior b-pillar applique / door trim panel with keypad: the exterior b-pillar trim piece on the driver side front door frame has experienced catastrophic adhesive failure and clip breakage, detaching at the top portion while driving. this plastic trim is flapping at highway speeds and is at imminent risk of completely flying off the vehicle. i'm sure this will be issue with other 3 doors at some point soon. th

Power Train

The contact owns a 2018 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving 35 mph, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle jerked. the dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed torque converter. the contact was informed that the torque converter needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted by phone and m

Seat Belts

The contact owns a 2018 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving at higher speeds, the front driver’s side seat belt might not prevent him from hitting the steering wheel in the event of a crash or while depressing the brake pedal to come to a sudden stop. the local dealer was contacted. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Unknown Or Other

A pillar has not been fixed by local ford dealership. a pillars are cracked and loose

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2018 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2018 Ford Explorer 4 DR SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering EXPLORER, EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPT. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.