Recalls · problems · safety

2021 Ford Explorer: recalls and problems

27 recalls and 435 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is power train.

27recalls
435complaints
17crashes reported
5fires reported
19injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Power Train124 · 29%
  • Unknown Or Other86 · 20%
  • Engine49 · 11%
  • Electrical System44 · 10%
  • Back Over Prevention36 · 8%
  • Visibility/Wiper24 · 6%
  • Structure24 · 6%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System19 · 4%
  • Forward Collision Avoidance19 · 4%
  • Service Brakes19 · 4%

What owners report

Power Train

The contact owns a 2021 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally loud sound and vibration coming from the vehicle. the contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the rear axle bolt and rear axle were detached. the failure reoccurred while the contact was driving out of the residence driveway. the vehicle was driven back i

Electrical System

On 9/3/26, car completely shut down/went all black while we were parking. car was towed to shop the next day. on 9/22/26, ford told us the battery junction box is the issue and there is currently no eta as the part is on back order because there is a national shortage on this part. car has been in the shop for 19 days. car payments and insurance payments are still being made. in the mean time, i am without a car.

Visibility/Wiper

Recall 26s14 was anticipated to be fixed 2q2026 (april/may/june). we're now 3 - 6 months overdue for repair. ineffective communications and timeliness on repairs.

Power Train,Fuel/Propulsion System

While driving with the cruise on at 74 mph the vehicle jerked as if the brakes had been tapped. i shut off the cruise and tried to accelerate but nothing happened. at this point i signaled to change lanes and pulled to the right shoulder. there were no dash lights or warning alarms prior to the engine stalling. clearly an engine stalling at this rate of speed could have ended bad for all 5 passengers and surroundin

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

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2021 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2021 Ford Explorer SUV RWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

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