2018 FORD EXPLORER Unknown Or Other Problems

151 NHTSA complaints on file

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Unknown Or Other Issues in the 2018 FORD EXPLORER

151 unknown or other complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 2018 FORD EXPLORER. Of these, 1 involved a crash, 1 involved a fire, and 3 resulted in injury.

151
Complaints
1
Crashes
1
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths

All Unknown Or Other Complaints

#11711086 |
The manufacturer has not remedied the repair of a recall within a timely manner. I am scheduled to ship my vehicle overseas, which requires all recalls to be addressed. Manufacturer Recall Number24S02 (NHTSA Recall Number24V031)
#11707271 |
The displayed view by the back up camera flickers, or shows a blue screen when the car is placed in reverse. This places the safety of pedestrians at risk of being hit by the vehicle when backing up. This places the safety of other drivers and myself at risk of collision when backing up. The component (back up camera) was inspected by a Ford dealer (Sunrise Ford in Fort Pierce Fl.). I was charged $199 to run diagnostics on the camera. They found that the camera had an internal fault, vision blurry and suggest replacing camera at a charge of $1145. I was told that the existing recalls do not cover my VIN. I contacted Ford customer care to see if my VIN was covered under the announced 15 year warranty for backup camera replacement. Although 2016 - 2025 Ford explorers was listed as being eligible for replacement, I was...
#11707124 |
My 2018 Ford Explorer sport had a recall on the luggage rack. The railing on top it was repaired. In twenty one, but the repairer didn't hold the relling, flew off on the passenger side and driver's side is about to fly off.And my local four dealer has changed hands.So they're refusing to repair it again.So recall clips felled, so what do I do
#11706901 |
2018 Leather on dashboard shrinks pulled away from the glue. Causes a safety hazard while driving.
#11704037 |
It has been 1.5 years since this recall and Ford has not remedied the problem in a timely manner.
#11698324 |
I do not no at this time
#11697566 |
I believe the APIM has malfunctioned. I have a black screen. No backup camera, no controls for the functions on the screen, no radio and no hands free telephone. The safety of being able to see what is behind me while backing up is gone. The screen started malfunctioning about 8 months ago. It would work sporadically, now it doesn't work at all. I did the soft reset and the hard reset, plus Ford walked me through the update but it never worked.
#11697425 |
These parts are still unavailable. This should be a class action lawsuit.
#11695846 |
None of the parts listed above are the problem. But we can hear a weird noise coming from the sides of the windshield and can definitely tell that it's getting worse as the noise has increased significantly as time goes by. I just called a glass company and they told me that the parts needed to get this fixed are pretty expensive. That's why I am reaching out since it looks like there is a recall specifically for this issue. Can Ford take care of this issue?
#11695058 |
Backup Camera does not work. This has been going on for two years. We have been to the dealer about this situation. There were intermittent messages saying that the camera didn't work, then it completely stopped. This started in 2023. We went to the dealer to find out about what it would cost to have it fixed and found out that all the years around the 2018 had been recalled for this problem. We wanted you to know that the 2018 has the same problem as these other vehicles with the backup camera.
#11693744 |
Nothing has happened yet, but I want to make dure nothing does happen as a result of not taking care of this potential problem.
#11692613 |
The plastic covers on the roof rails are both loose and constantly pop out. I'm nervous that they are going to fly off when driving, causing an issue for other drivers.
#11691529 |
The dash on my 2018 Ford Explorer platinum is rolling up from the front of the dash. It is made out of some sort of leather or vinyl. But with it rolling up towards the driver, it causes a glare onto the windshield which causes visibility issues. I know I'm not the only one experiencing these problems with the platinum trim on the 2018 ford explorer. But this really needs to be looked into and recalled. You can also look up the explorer platinum on a vehicle search website and visibly see that every platinum edition explorer has this issue. It's unsafe and should be addressed immediately.
#11687464 |
Rear view camera not functioning since March 2025
#11686995 |
My 2018 Ford Explorer Limited has been having issues with the back up camera for longer than 18 months. My local Ford in Margate Florida is aware of the problem. My camera goes blank when I’m backing up it stops working my mirrors on the driver side will not fold out my passenger side door if I touch it when it’s locked will alarm I believe all of this is related to an electrical problem in the camera. This is dangerous and I’m very frustrated. I want my car looked at free of charge by Ford because something‘s going on with the camera and it’s extremely dangerous while I’m backing up to have the camera stop and then for me to reset it I can’t do it while backing up. I have a neck injury that prevents me from looking over my shoulder currently Can somebody please call me my...
#11685354 |
Ford sent me a recall notice for my 2018 Explorer A-Pillar replacement February 2024. I made an appointment and they attempted to install the new A-Pillars. However they broke the new replacement part (drivers side) during the install. They gave me my Explorer back without an A-Pillar and said they would expedite getting an new one. It's now been over a year, the dealership is not responsive, only saying it's a manufacture problem. I called Ford and get the same message. Meanwhile I have a very unsightly SUV, it is also very noisy to drive. Additionally, I would like to replace this vehicle, but its now worth much less. Is their anything that the NHTSB can do to hold Ford accountable for this repair? Thank you in advance, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
#11681453 |
The dash cover came unglued and is rolling up exposing a white cloth that reflects on the windshield makingit hard to see
#11679329 |
I previously reported a battery 'explosion' in this 2018 Ford Explorer with ODI 11678705 due to my concern for a potentially highly dangerous situation for my grandchildren who were riding with me. And myself. An unpleasant smell intermittently followed this car that morning July 10 Upon opening the hood it was evident that battery acid had leaked out of the battery and 'exploded' covering most visible engine parts. Entire time of drive there was no 'alert' showing up on my dashboard July 11 car would not start to take to Ford dealership. AAA towed car with AAA driver remarking 'looks like your battery exploded!' Engine compartment cleaned by service, battery replaced July 12 July 18 engine light came on. Ford dealership contacted, no service appointment available until Aug 20. Advised by Ford service to take short trips only, and stop driving if engine light started flashing. I restricted my driving....
#11678926 |
The dashboard is string to come up the glue is no longer holding and it cause the leather to shrink and come up cause a white glare on the windshield and making it hard to see
#11678074 |
This recall was opened in Jan 2024. It’s been almost two years and parts still not available. I use my vehicle for business as part of Turo and they deactivated this vehicle in 2024 and won’t let me add it back until repaired. I have loss of income around 25,000 due to this. Easy remedy still no fix.
#11671954 |
As you drive you can hear air coming from around the windshield on the drivers side.
#11667885 |
About two years ago, I had the windshield replaced because I had a crack in it. A certified tech approved by my insurance replaced it. Once that happened, I noticed the right A-pillar was loose. Thinking it was something they did incorrectly, I called and they came to fix it; however, a day later, it did the same thing. The clips would not fit correctly. While going down the road, it flew off and scraped the side of my car. Now there isn't an A-pillar and I'm afraid water is getting into my car. Since that happened, my electrical system has been acting strange. I called the AutoNation and I was told the saw the recall, but they didn't have any fixes for it yet. That was in 2024.
#11667599 |
The radio flickers on & off when started for about 10 minutes. It’s very distracting. The windshield makes a whistling noise when going above 50mph
#11666264 |
I can hear air coming from the windshield on the drivers side at the top
#11663640 |
I took this vehicle for a recall on September 2024 mire than 9 months ago & as of today, there has been no solucion from customer service. I have send text messages to get an update & on January 2025 I was told that 3 of the 4 parts missing have arrived & they were just waiting for the last one. This recall have affected my business because I can't sell this vehicle due to the recall on it. I am really desperate to get the recall done so I can sell it. Carrillo's Auto Sales
#11656156 |
The Ford dealer inspected the trunk lip's rust but refused to submit it to Ford Consumer Support for a corrosion warranty extension claim. The rust must have existed long before the corrosion warranty expired and was not detected for a month after. In 2023, the hood had rust bubbles around the edge and was repaired. I would like to have the rust of the Ford Explorer reviewed for a manufacturer recall.
#11652557 |
I use this car for business as part of my income. Ford has issued an Advance Recall Notice. In January 2024. I have not been able earn money because of the recall notice. Manufacturer recall number: 24S02 NHTSA Recall number: 24V031 From legal advice, the Advance Recall Notice is for the dealers and is not an Official Recall Notice. Since the notice, I have been unable to rent out my vehicle. That's 15 months ago with no income. Now I have another Advance Recall Notice on my other vehicle a 2020 Expedition Max Limited. I need to make a living. What actions can be taken.? I've called numerous times first to times, no answer phone just rang after initial message. The following times, a human answered after message but i was disconnected or inadvertently put on hold. Then steered to this page. Looking for some assistance.
#11645328 |
Horn Failure. Does not work at all. This in now the third time my horn has failed and requires replacement (again). In addition, FORD still does not have replacement parts for the A-FRAME recall. It is unsafe to be driving this vehicle.
#11642946 |
I purchased the 2018 Ford Explorer and it worked fine there were no issues when I bought it on 7/8/2024 as of 2/14/25 the coolant leaks and I have been adding coolant like crazy. Are there any defective parts on the 2018 Ford Explorer? I had only a 90 day warranty through CARMAX.
#11640955 |
Description In some of the affected vehicles it may be possible that some of the exterior a-pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repair. If this occurs, the a-pillar applique trim, which borders the right and left side of the windshield, may be loose, missing or become detached. Safety Risk An exterior a-pillar trim part that detaches while driving can create a road hazard for other road users, increasing the risk of a crash. I bought the car Jauary 19, 2024. The parts to fix this was supposed to be here by fall of 2024. This is affecting my job and will not be able to work soon. I do uber and they want this fixed or they will cancel me.
#11636068 |
While driving down the interstate, parts on both sides of my windsheild came flying off, leaving the sides of my windshield exposed and debris flying behind me into oncoming traffic. I got notice of the recall, called FORD, they indicated it would be fine, its not dangerous, and parts were on back order until February. This happened, I called FORD again, and now the parts are not available until MARCH. Meanwhile I'm drivng around with missing pieces on either side of my windwhield, a whistling wind noise in the interior of my car and possibly damaged someone behind me on the interstate. this is unacceptable on behalf of ford. please advise.
#11629964 |
Body control module has went out in the vehicle multiple times. Which causes the battery to die and the vehicle not to start. Part has been replaced multiple times.
#11629482 |
Radio and back up screen stop working 1 month after purchase.
#11629267 |
The A-pillar appliques on my vehicle are detaching and my windshield vibrates while i drive, putting my family at risk, and others as well. The rubber seal around windshield is coming off on the outside of car. I have reached out to Ford on multiple occasions with no course of action. I have done my research and have let them know since they can not fix the problem, I have contacted a lawyer. Still nothing. When driving my car any speed the windshield vibrates, idling and the windshield vibrates. this is a safety concern for my family. Please help us
#11628135 |
I first contacted the dealership on July 29, 2024 to set up an appointment and again on Oct. 8, 2024. I took my vehicle to the dealership on 11/22/24 to have the recalls on my vehicle corrected. On pickup I was informed that the pillars had not been fixed became there were no parts available. The following day while driving on the highway something hit the side of my vehicle. When I arrived at my destination I noticed on the passenger side windshield pillar was missing and the passenger doors were scratched. I’m concerned because the drivers side pillar may fall of and hurt someone. In addition I’m concerned about the windshield falling due to the cracking of the sealant. I need to use my vehicle to go to work.
#11626256 |
THE FRONT SEAL OF WINDSHIELD SEEMS TO BE LETTING QUITE A BIT OF AIR FLOW THROUGH WINDOW INTO VEHILE WHEN DRIVING 35+ MILES/HR. THERE IS A RECALL ON THE PARTICUALAR PART THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE VIHICLE HAS YET TO BE INSPECTED BY PROFESSIONAL.
#11625654 |
The clips on my windshield are not holding windshield in properly and the black rubber on outside of windshield is deteriorating and my windshield vibrates while driving.
#11622195 |
Doesn’t want to run right
#11618912 |
Got a letter in February from Ford about recall 24S02/NHTSA recall 24V031and have not seen any updates in the last t months ????
#11612497 |
I am the original owner of my 2018 Ford Explorer. I brought it to my dealership for issues and one was, I have been experiencing a loud intermittent obnoxious noise while driving over 55 mph. Sounds like it is coming from the top of my windshield to the roof, before the sunroof. Nothing is loose, up in this area at all. The BOTTOM RUBBER TRIM, all across the bottom of my windshield has come away from the windshield showing deformation in its entirely of large GAPS. The technician confirmed this is where the noise is coming from and is a HAZZARD and needs to be replaced for $500.00. I have extended warranty; however, it does not cover this, BUT FORD SHOULD, IT IS DEFECTIVE !!
#11612635 |
Check engine light showing. Diagnostic testing shows misfire in cylinder #3. Ford dealership ran diagnostic testing ($169.95) and verified concern and found coolant intrusion cylinder #3. Advised, due to mileage (75,976 miles), replacement of long block. Replacement cost estimated at $11k. No repairs have been performed at this point due to excessive cost. Second Diagnostic test ($89.95) with independent mechanic - confirmed original verification and found evidence of wear on long block. Mechanic stated that he currently had a Ford Edge in the shop with the same issues. There is currently a class action law suit against Ford for same the issue..
#11604545 |
The a-piller trim flew off my car while driving down the highway. I was not in a place where I could pull over, so I am unsure if it hit anyone.
#11601748 |
My cars B Pillar (security pad) became unattached from my car while simply driving down the road. This part detaching caused my liftgate to lock and make me unable to open my truck for anyone and also the part could have fallen into the road way and caused a disturbance or accident to cars behind me. There was no indication of my security pad going to detach from my car and with the current recall on the A Pillars it is safe to believe that manufacturing caused this issue as well with the B Pillars as other Explorer owners have had this similar experience with the vehicles.
#11588399 |
Back up camera went blue screen. I noticed they had recalls on the 2018's that were manufactured in October of 2018 however my car was manufactured before Oct 2018
#11581460 |
car developed leaks and a mold smell. brought car to dealer, apparently, sunroof drains were plugged up cause water to build up in the car. The mold is making my wife and I sick. This is a severe health hazard caused by a manufacturing or design defect. The service dept at the dealer tried 3 or 4 time to sanitize, all failed and now they recommend replacing ALL of the upholstery in the car, rugs, headliner and seats. Mold has permeated this vehicle and it is not driveable. Ford should issue a recall for this problem and cover any costs.
#11575226 |
Heat stopped working in Dec. Had it checked by local mechanic coolant very low but couldn’t find leak. Heat was working and no check engine light ever went on. About month later had car back for oil change and mechanic found leak, again no check engine or warning ever came on. Finally got appt at ford dealer $3000 to repair and was told would take 11 hrs. Ten days later car was supposed to be fixed. Pick up car. Next day when heat was put on there was a terrible burning rubber smell and now a very load noise which wasn’t there when vehicle was dropped off
#11574085 |
Received letter for FORD Recall #20N11 Roof Rack becoming unattached while driving. Went to viva ford and dealership said there was no remedy for it at the moment. Roof rack has already started lifting, was only instructed they can put glue which is useless due to glue not adhering in the hot temperatures.
#11573592 |
Unknown
#11572735 |
In addition to this recall on my vehicle, NHTSA Recall Number: 24V031. This is not the only problem around the windows but the pillars on the driver and passenger doors are coming off as well. When we were looking at other Ford explorers on 1/1/23. We noticed that this is a common issue with all the Ford explorers that we looked at. Please look into fixing that as well! I am attaching 4 pictures to show the already recalled parts as well as driver and passenger doors.
#11567701 |
While driving on the interstate the piece of trim along the passenger side windshield flew off. No warnings. I am unsure if it caused any damage to anyone driving near me. It took me a moment to realize what had happened. I took the car to Ford repair where they had to replace the pillar molding, pillar molding hardware kit, and pillar molding mount bracket.

Other 2018 FORD EXPLORER Problem Areas

Structure 160 complaints Structurebody 92 complaints Engine 87 complaints Electrical System 50 complaints Power Train 38 complaints Fuelpropulsion System 18 complaints Engine And Engine Cooling 15 complaints Steering 15 complaints Visibilitywiper 14 complaints Suspension 13 complaints Back Over Prevention 12 complaints Air Bags 8 complaints Service Brakes 8 complaints Vehicle Speed Control 8 complaints Back Over Prevention Sensing System Camera 7 complaints Seats 7 complaints Structurebodyroof And Pillars 7 complaints Tires 7 complaints Wheels 7 complaints Seat Belts 5 complaints Back Over Prevention Rearview System Braking 4 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust System 4 complaints Exterior Lighting 3 complaints Fuel System Gasoline 3 complaints Structureinterior Panelsdashboard 3 complaints Visibility 3 complaints Visibilitywindshield 3 complaints Visibilitywindshieldcritical Fasteners 3 complaints Back Over Prevention Warnings 2 complaints Electrical System12v24v48v Battery 2 complaints Electrical Systeminstrument Panelfuel Gauge 2 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingcooling Systemfan 2 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systememission Controlcatalytic Convertor 2 complaints Engine And Engine Coolingexhaust Systemmanifoldheadermufflertail Pipe 2 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Braking 2 complaints Forward Collision Avoidance Warnings 2 complaints Lane Departure Blind Spot Detection 2 complaints Power Trainautomatic Transmission 2 complaints Steeringcolumn 2 complaints Tirestreadbelt 2 complaints Electrical Systemalternatorgeneratorregulator 1 complaint Electrical Systemhorn 1 complaint Electronic Stability Control Esc 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingenginecrankcamshaft Position Sensor 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingenginegasolineturbosupercharger 1 complaint Engine And Engine Coolingengineoillubrication 1 complaint Equipment 1 complaint Equipmentelectricalinfotainment 1 complaint Equipmentelectricalinfotainmentvideo Touchscreenmonitorunit 1 complaint Equipmentelectricalradiotape Deckcd Etc 1 complaint Forward Collision Avoidance Adaptive Cruise Control 1 complaint Fuel System Gasolinefuel Injection Systemthrottlebodymanifold 1 complaint Latcheslockslinkageshoodlatch 1 complaint Latcheslockslinkagestailgatelatch 1 complaint Service Brakes Hydraulic 1 complaint Service Brakes Hydraulicpower Assisthydraulichoses Linespiping And Fittings 1 complaint Structurebodydoor 1 complaint Structurebodytailgate 1 complaint Tiresmarkings 1 complaint Vehicle Speed Controlcruise Control 1 complaint Visibilityglass Siderear 1 complaint Visibilitysunmoon Roof Assembly 1 complaint
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