2021 Ford Explorer Problems and Safety Recalls

The 2021 Ford Explorer is a popular SUV with three rows of seats and plenty of cargo space. Additionally, most Ford Explorer buyers’ wishlist are included with a number of connectivity and safety features.

However, despite the 2021 Ford Explorer advanced features and ample room, many Explorer owners are left confused and upset due to a multitude of recalls.  Here are the Top 5 recalls for the 2021 Ford Explorer.

See more lemon law problems for the Ford Explorer model years: 2022

Recall #1 – Driveline and Transmission Problems

Ford issued recall 22V255000 on April 13, 2022 for the 2021 Ford Explorer regarding a defect with the driveline.  According to the recall, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt on the 2021 Ford Explorer may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.  dealers will replace the bushing and axle cover, or update the electronic parking brake software.

Motor1 has reported Ford’s NHTSA Recall is expected to cover 252,936 Explorers due to the following transmission defect:

 If the rear axle bolt breaks, the driveshaft/half shafts may become disconnected, resulting in loss of transmission torque to the rear wheels which is necessary to hold the vehicle in park. If the parking brake is not applied, the loss of the primary park torque will allow the vehicle to roll in park increasing the risk of crash and injury.

In addition to the recall many 2021 Ford Explorer owners are complaining of transmission problems.  Read this complaint by a Explorer owner to Edmunds:

The transmission on my car started making grinding and howling noises around 27,000 miles. Mostly in the lower gears, 1st, 2nd and 3rd. The problem got progressively worse over the next 3000 miles. At around 30,000 miles on a chilly day (upper 30’s), the car gave me a Transmission Fault and refused to go into gear. 

Recall #2 – Ford Explorer Suspension Problems

The recall warnings continue for the 2021 Ford Explorer with manufacturer issuing Recall 21V870000 for the suspension.  According to the recall:

A rear suspension module with incorrect components in the 2021 Ford Explorer may affect vehicle handling, ride height, and braking characteristics, increasing the risk of a crash.  Dealers will inspect the rear suspension module, and replace any incorrect parts, as necessary, free of charge. 

Recall #3 – Rear Camera Problems & Back Over Prevention Problems

The 2021 Ford Explorer advanced electronic system is not free from faults. Ford has reported a problem with its rear camera and back over prevention.  Specifically the rearview camera in the 2021 Ford Explorer may not display an image, reducing the driver’s rearview and increasing the risk of a collision.

Ford issued Recall 21V735000 on November 21, 2021 which states the following:

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer quipped with 360-degree cameras. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.

Even with the Recall, owners are experiencing rear camera problems with their 2021 Ford Explorer.  Just read this complaint to NHTSA:

I had the backup camera parts replaced 4/15/2022 and within 10 days of having the vehicle back the backup camera was turning blue again.

Recall #4 – 2021 Ford Explorer Engine Problems

Cars cannot function without their engines.  One would expect the 2021 Ford Explorer to have an engine which would last a lifetime. Yet, many owners are having problems with the 2021 Ford Explorer engine.

Ford has recognized problems with the 2021 Explorer engine and issued Recall 20V788000 on December 16, 2020 for the Explorer engine.  The Recall states:

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer vehicles because the right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over time.

In spite of identifying the problem, many 2021 Ford Explorer owners have resorted to reporting continued engine problems.  Here is a 2021 Ford Explorer engine problem report to NHTSA

While driving vehicle, reduced engine power occurred resulting in the vehicle being unable to safely maintain highway speeds. Once safely on side of roadway, vehicle lost all engine power and would start. Vehicle had 11,049 miles on it and had been properly maintained. Attempts to start vehicle were unsuccessfully and engine sounded like internal components had failed (like a bag of rocks inside the engine). Vehicle was towed to Ford dealer 

Recall #5 – Air Bag Problems

Air Bags are critical for the safety of the driver and passengers.  However, the 2021 Ford Explorer is having an Air Bag problem.  Specifically an improper deployment of a side air bag may result in the risk of injury during a crash.

According to Recall 21V652000:

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Explorer vehicles because the side air bag attachment weld studs could detach during the deployment of the side air bag, resulting in an improper deployment.

Owners of the 2021 Ford Explorer are instructed to visit their dealer in order to replace the side air bag assemblies, free of charge.

Lemon Law Rights for 2021 Ford Explorer

If you are like many 2021 Ford Explorer owners who are experiencing engine, transmission, suspension or other problems, you may be entitled to compensation under the lemon law.

You can turn to us if you bought a lemon. We have helped thousands of Ford owners get lemon law relief throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Hawaii.

We are the lemon law experts and have recovered more than 500 million dollars for our clients.

Contact us today for free lemon law help.