# Ford Explorer check engine light: complaints, recalls and what to do **Verdict:** Drive to a shop this week - **Owner complaints:** 314 - **Most complaints:** 2016 (115) - **Related recalls:** 31 - **Verdict:** This week ## Quick answer NHTSA has 314 owner complaints about the check engine light on the Ford Explorer (2015-2026 models), most for the **2016** model year (115). There are **31 recalls** for related parts; check yours by VIN. Drive to a shop this week: With a steady light and a car that drives normally, yes, it is usually safe to keep driving for a few days while you get the code read. ## Ford Explorer check engine light complaints by model year | Model year | Complaints mentioning the check engine light | All complaints that year | Share | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2015 | 31 | 1814 | 2% | | 2016 | 115 | 2464 | 5% | | 2017 | 60 | 1713 | 4% | | 2018 | 31 | 733 | 4% | | 2019 | 4 | 302 | 1% | | 2020 | 38 | 1248 | 3% | | 2021 | 13 | 452 | 3% | | 2022 | 16 | 271 | 6% | | 2023 | 4 | 113 | 4% | | 2025 | 2 | 107 | 2% | Counts are complaints filed with NHTSA whose description mentions this light. They show where owners have had trouble, not a failure rate: popular years collect more complaints simply because more cars are on the road. ## Ford Explorer recalls related to the check engine light **[26V548000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V548000)** (2026 models, reported 2026-08-25): An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect the engine pistons and replace the engine long block, if necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 3, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in December 2026. **[26V532000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V532000)** (2026 models, reported 2026-08-13): Engine failure can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, bearing failure may cause a breach in the engine block, allowing oil to leak, increasing the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the engine long blocks, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 25, 2026. **[26V402000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V402000)** (2020-2021 models, reported 2026-06-24): Park system damage may result in a vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, and inspect and replace any damaged transmission components as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 10, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in April... **[26V371000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V371000)** (2024 models, reported 2026-06-09): A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect for park system damage and replace the park system components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2026. **[26V343000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V343000)** (2025-2026 models, reported 2026-05-27): A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the engine long block, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 23, 2026. **[26V205000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V205000)** (2026 models, reported 2026-03-31): An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect the engine for missing or mis-installed circlips and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2026. **[26V122000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V122000)** (2025 models, reported 2026-03-04): An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the EGR valves, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 31, 2026. **[25V455000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V455000)** (2021-2023 models, reported 2025-07-07): An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. **[25V344000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V344000)** (2025 models, reported 2025-06-13): A damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect the connecting rods and replace the engine long block assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. **[25V239000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V239000)** (2025 models, reported 2025-04-11): A damaged park system can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. An engine stall while driving can result in a sudden loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. **[25V164000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V164000)** (2025 models, reported 2025-03-14): Unexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the transmission main control valve body, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. **[25V166000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V166000)** (2020-2022 models, reported 2025-03-14): A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. **[25V020000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V020000)** (2025 models, reported 2025-01-17): An improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission cross member bolts as necessary, free of charge. If the cross member bolts are missing, dealers will replace the cross member and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 29, 2025. **[24V635000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V635000)** (2021-2022 models, reported 2024-08-24): A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. **[24V634000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V634000)** (2025 models, reported 2024-08-23): A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 7, 2024. **[23V675000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V675000)** (2020-2022 models, reported 2023-10-06): A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. **[23V597000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V597000)** (2023 models, reported 2023-08-25): An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as soon as possible if they see an oil pressure warning light or smoke coming from the engine compartment. Dealers will replace the turbo oil supply line assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. **[23V199000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V199000)** (2020-2022 models, reported 2023-03-24): Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. **[23V070000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V070000)** (2022-2023 models, reported 2023-02-10): The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. **[23V069000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V069000)** (2020-2022 models, reported 2023-02-10): A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash. **Remedy:** Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. **[22V685000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V685000)** (2022 models, reported 2022-09-14): An improperly tightened fuel line connection may result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of fire. **Remedy:** Ford will inspect and replace the fuel line assembly, if needed, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 29, 2022. **[22V088000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V088000)** (2022 models, reported 2022-02-16): A detached fuel filler tube can result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Dealers will install a fuel vapor line redundant locking clip, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 4, 2022. **[20V730000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V730000)** (2020 models, reported 2020-11-24): An incomplete weld securing the inlet check valve to the fuel tank shell could result in a substantial fuel leak during a crash, increasing the risk of fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank shell, free of charge. The recall began December 8, 2020. **[20V693000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V693000)** (2020 models, reported 2020-11-10): Defective drive shafts may fail and cause a loss of connection between the transfer case and rear axle, possibly resulting in a vehicle rollaway when in Park or a loss of drive. Either condition can increase the risk of a crash. The drive shafts can also deform and separate from the driveline and potentially contact... **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the drive shaft label inspected and replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. **[20V692000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V692000)** (2015-2016 models, reported 2020-11-10): The failed bracket could result in a loss of park function which can cause unintended vehicle movement, and loss of motive power while driving which increases the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the link shaft bracket, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. Owners received an interim notification detailing safety risk December 8, 2020. A second letter will be mailed when parts become available in January 2021. The recall began February 2, 2021.... **[19V859000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V859000)** (2020 models, reported 2019-12-04): A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a longer protective sleeve on the liquid fuel line, as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners and interim notification on January 29, 2020. Recall began March 23, 2020. A second notice will be sent once parts are available, expected to be late in the first... **[19V575000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V575000)** (2020 models, reported 2019-08-05): Without the cover, the MPR lever may be unintentionally moved, allowing the vehicle to roll away. Being in Factory Mode, the vehicle will not display warnings and/or gear selection on the instrument cluster. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install a MPR cover. Dealers will verify the instrument cluster is not in Factory Mode and clear any fault codes, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. **[18V807000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V807000)** (2018 models, reported 2018-11-14): A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel line assembly, free of charge. The recall began December 7, 2018. **[16V925000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V925000)** (2017 models, reported 2016-12-22): An oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the turbocharger oil supply tubes, free of charge. The recall began on January 31, 2017. **[16V183000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V183000)** (2016 models, reported 2016-03-31): Overheating of the engine block increase the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the engine block heater, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and replace the electrical cord, as necessary. The recall began on May 18, 2016. **[15V605000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V605000)** (2016 models, reported 2015-09-28): If the fuel tank separates from the vehicle, a fuel leak may occur, increasing the risk of a fire. **Remedy:** Ford will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the fuel tank attachment bolts, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Recall repairs are free at any Ford dealer. Enter your 17-character VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) to see whether yours is still open. ## What Ford Explorer owners report - "The check engine warning light came on, and the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact used a scanner to identify an error code. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and drove to the residence while driving 20 MPH with the vehicle shaking abnormally. Upon arriving at the residence, the vehicle..." -- owner of a 2025 Ford Explorer, complaint filed 2026 - "- Intermittent check engine lights, FordPass alerts, and electrical warnings. These conditions create a significant safety risk because the vehicle may fail to accelerate when entering the highway, merging into traffic, crossing traffic, making left turns, or avoiding hazards. The delayed throttle response and..." -- owner of a 2023 Ford Explorer, complaint filed 2026 - "Started getting engine shudders and a check engine light. It's currently in the shop and I'm being told by the shop and a third party adjuster that I need a whole new engine because there is coolant leaking into the cylinders." -- owner of a 2022 Ford Explorer, complaint filed 2025 Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA, lightly cleaned for reading. They are owners' own accounts and have not been verified. ## What the check engine light means The check engine light means the engine computer has stored a diagnostic trouble code for an emissions, engine or transmission fault. Common causes include a loose gas cap, a failing oxygen sensor, a worn catalytic converter, and misfires from plugs or coils. A steady light is usually not an emergency, but a flashing light means a severe misfire and you should reduce speed and get it checked right away. The most common causes, on any make: 1. **Loose gas cap or EVAP system leak** (common) 2. **Failing oxygen sensor** (common) 3. **Catalytic converter efficiency below threshold** (common) 4. **Misfire from worn spark plugs or ignition coils** (common) Full causes, what to do and how to reset it: [Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine). ## Frequently asked questions ### Is there a recall for the Ford Explorer check engine light? Yes. NHTSA lists 31 related recalls (26V548000, 26V532000, 26V402000, 26V371000, 26V343000, 26V205000, 26V122000, 25V455000, 25V344000, 25V239000, 25V164000, 25V166000, 25V020000, 24V635000, 24V634000, 23V675000, 23V597000, 23V199000, 23V070000, 23V069000, 22V685000, 22V088000, 20V730000, 20V693000, 20V692000, 19V859000, 19V575000, 18V807000, 16V925000, 16V183000, 15V605000) covering 2015-2026 models. Recall repairs are free; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours is open. ### Which Ford Explorer years have the most check engine light complaints? In NHTSA's database the 2016, 2017 and 2020 Explorer model years have the most complaints mentioning the check engine light, with 115 for 2016. Complaint counts reflect how many cars were sold as well as how often problems happen. ### Is it safe to drive a Ford Explorer with the check engine light on? Drive to a shop this week. With a steady light and a car that drives normally, yes, it is usually safe to keep driving for a few days while you get the code read. If the light is flashing, the engine runs very rough, or the temperature or oil light also comes on, stop driving and have it checked. ### How do I check if my Ford Explorer has an open recall? Enter the 17-character VIN from your dashboard or registration at nhtsa.gov/recalls, or ask any Ford dealer. Open recalls are fixed free of charge, even if you are not the first owner. ## Sources - [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis) - [NHTSA: Check for recalls by VIN](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) ## Other Ford Explorer warning lights - [ABS warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/abs/ford-explorer): 33 complaints - [Airbag (SRS) warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/airbag/ford-explorer): 205 complaints - [Battery (charging system) warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/battery/ford-explorer): 15 complaints - [Brake warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/brake/ford-explorer): 62 complaints - [Coolant temperature warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/ford-explorer): 222 complaints - [Oil pressure warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/oil-pressure/ford-explorer): 11 complaints - [Power steering warning light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/power-steering/ford-explorer): 498 complaints - [Tire pressure (TPMS) light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/tire-pressure/ford-explorer): 23 complaints - [Traction control light](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/traction-control/ford-explorer): 81 complaints ## Check engine light on other models - [Ford Escape](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/ford-escape): 2245 complaints - [Ford Edge](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/ford-edge): 1380 complaints - [Chevrolet Silverado](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/chevrolet-silverado): 911 complaints - [Kia Soul](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/kia-soul): 785 complaints - [Hyundai Sonata](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/hyundai-sonata): 731 complaints - [Hyundai Tucson](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/hyundai-tucson): 705 complaints - [Chevrolet Malibu](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/chevrolet-malibu): 666 complaints - [Chrysler Pacifica](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/chrysler-pacifica): 630 complaints - [Hyundai Santa Fe](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/hyundai-santa-fe): 602 complaints - [Jeep Cherokee](https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/jeep-cherokee): 587 complaints ## Ford Explorer - [Ford Explorer specs and mpg by year](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-explorer) --- Source page: https://diagxcar.com/warning-lights/check-engine/ford-explorer Updated: 2026-11-04 General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.