# Service bulletins for the 2008 Ford Explorer

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

23 bulletins from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

- [SSM 54601](/bulletins/11029052.md), 2026-02-27, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STRUCTURE:BODY; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module \(BCM\). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how to retrieve the master code. This guide is located under the Workshop Manual tab \> Accessories \> Installation \> Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide \> PPT C \> Step C2.\<br /\>\<br /\> Note: The only available keypad for some vehicles from the assembly plant is the accessory wireless keyless entry keypad. The integrated wired keypad cannot be installed on vehicles not equipped from the factory with a wired keyless entry k
- [SSM 52476](/bulletins/10254138.md), 2024-05-03, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT. All accessory stick\-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery. Unlike the integrated \(wired\) factory keypad, the accessory keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is lost, follow these steps to recover the code. Dealer Key Code access is granted through the Dealer Program Enrollment System \(DPES\); dealership management can authorize users. The authorized user must go to FMCDealer.com \> Parts and Service \> Parts Product Line Information \> Keys/Entry Devices \> Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Follow the instructions on the screen to obtain the master code for the accessory keypad.
- [SSM 51909](/bulletins/10243490.md), 2023-10-04, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. When performing any transmission fluid changes or topoffs involving MERCON SP, MERCON LV has replaced all versions of MERCON SP and can be used going forward. Mixing MERCON LV and MERCON SP in the same transmission is acceptable. After 30\-Jun\-2023, MERCON SP ATF will no longer be manufactured and will only be available until inventory depletes.
- [TSB 19\-2026](/bulletins/10156863.md), 2019-04-08, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT; STRUCTURE. Some 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition
- [TSB 19\-2026](/bulletins/10155551.md), 2019-04-01, Service bulletin: STRUCTURE. Some 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition
- [DOR\-S3J9G\-11](/bulletins/10148819.md), 2018-11-19, Service bulletin: STEERING. This SKU is a front upper ball joint. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for ball studs with excessive rotational friction in the ball joint assembly. Excessive friction in the ball joint assembly may cause a perceptible increase in steering effort.
- [SSM 47331](/bulletins/10143079.md), 2018-07-23, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT; ENGINE. Various vehicles equipped with a 4.6L, 5.4L, 6.8L modular 3 valve engine built on or before 8\-Jan\-2016 may exhibit symptoms that may include upper end engine noise, rough running, misfire and/or engine damage. If diagnosis leads to only camshaft/camshaft roller follower\(s\) requiring replacement, replace all of the camshaft roller followers on both banks/cylinder heads with part number 3L3Z\-6564\-A, not just the faulty roller follower\(s\). When replacing the camshaft roller followers, refer to Workshop Manual \(WSM\), Section 303\-01.
- [SSM 47009](/bulletins/10140323.md), 2018-06-11, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT. The Accessory \(Wireless\) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry \(RKE\). The master code for the Accessory \(Wireless\) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer \- Parts and Service \- Parts Product Line Information \- Keys/Entry Devices \- Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System \(DPES\) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module\(BCM\) with a diagnostic tool.
- [SSM 47009](/bulletins/10138524.md), 2018-05-29, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. The Accessory \(Wireless\) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry \(RKE\). The master code for the Accessory \(Wireless\) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer \- Parts and Service \- Parts Product Line Information \- Keys/Entry Devices \- Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Access to this site is granted through Dealer Program Enrollment System \(DPES\) and Dealer Principal, General Manager or Parts and Service Director can authorize users. Once authorized the retrieval process for master code can be obtained. The master code for the Accessory Keyless Entry Keypad cannot be retrieved from the body control module\(BCM\) with a diagnostic tool.
- [SSM 47201](/bulletins/10137113.md), 2018-05-21, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT. Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle. Only approved Genuine Ford accessories or originally installed systems are supported and certified to function correctly with other vehicle systems. If you suspect a system has been modified, the following resources can be used to verify original equipment: Monroney Label \(Window Sticker\), Professional Technician Society \(PTS\) OASIS tab select SYNC or HVBOM. For Genuine Ford accessories use: PTS Workshop Tab select Dealer Installed Accessory or Accessory Installation.
- [SSM 46085](/bulletins/10109070.md), 2017-08-01, Service bulletin: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE \(EGR VALVE\); ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY; ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE \(PCV\); ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN. The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis \(PC/ED\) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies \(ETBs\). The ETC\_ACT and ETC\_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate when reading these PIDs and cannot display quickly enough to validate a concern. The PCM automatically monitors these inputs more accurately and will set diagnostic trouble codes \(DTCs\) when appropriate. Using these PIDs for diagnostics will lead to inaccurate results and improper ETB replacements. If a concern is intermittent and no DTCs are present, refer to historical DTCs and the PC/ED, Section 3 No DTCs Present Index chart for further information.
- [SSM 46412](/bulletins/10095858.md), 2017-03-20, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL; POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE. SOME 2007\-2016 EDGE/MKX/FLEX/MKT/MKZ/MKS/TAURUS/TAURUS POLICE/EXPLORER/EXPLORER POLICE EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE \(AWD\) AND BUILT ON OR BEFORE 30\-JUN\-2016 MAY EXHIBIT A TICKING AND/OR KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE DRIVELINE AREA. TO IDENTIFY THIS NOISE, REFER TO WORKSHOP MANUAL \(WSM\), SECTION 100\-04, AND FOLLOW THE SYMPTOM CHART. IF THE SOURCE OF THE NOISE IS IDENTIFIED AS THE PTU AND/OR INTERNAL TO THE PTU, DISASSEMBLE PTU ASSEMBLY. REFER TO UPDATED WSM, SECTION 308\-07. IF THE PTU IS DETERMINED TO BE REPAIRABLE, UTILIZE KIT GB5Z\-7P258\-A AND THE INCLUDED INSTRUCTION SHEET. FOR CLAIMING, USE CAUSAL PART 7P258 AND APPLICABLE LABOR OPERATIONS IN SECTION 07 OF THE SERVICE LABOR TIME STANDARDS \(SLTS\) MANUAL.
- [SSM 46132](/bulletins/10091151.md), 2017-02-10, Service bulletin: SERVICE BRAKES. SOME 2008\-2017 FORD/MERCURY/LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC MAY GENERATE A VHR THAT IDENTIFIES A CONCERN WITH THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION CATEGORY INDICATING SERVICE IS REQUIRED DUE TO A BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LAMP BEING ILLUMINATED. IF THE PARK BRAKE WAS APPLIED WHEN THE VHR WAS GATHERING DATA FROM THE MAJOR VEHICLE SYSTEMS, THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION MESSAGE WILL BE REPORTED AS THE VHR LOOKS FOR ANY WARNING LAMPS ILLUMINATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. RERUN THE VHR WITH THE ENGINE ON AND VEHICLE IN PARK, AND ENSURE THE PARK BRAKE IS DISENGAGED. IF THE SYNC VHR IS STILL REPORTING A CONCERN TO THE CUSTOMERS SYNC OWNERS ACCOUNT, REFER TO THE APPROPRIATE WORKSHOP MANUAL SECTION FOR DIAGNOSIS BY DTC OR SYMPTOM. STARTING IN 2015 NOT ALL SYNC EQUIPPED VEHICLES SUPPORT VHR, REFER TO THE OWNERS MANUAL FOR VHR OPERATION.
- [SSM 46132](/bulletins/10090681.md), 2017-02-07, Service bulletin: SERVICE BRAKES. SOME 2008\-2017 FORD/MERCURY/LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC MAY GENERATE A VHR THAT IDENTIFIES A CONCERN WITH THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION CATEGORY INDICATING SERVICE IS REQUIRED DUE TO A BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LAMP BEING ILLUMINATED. IF THE PARK BRAKE WAS APPLIED WHEN THE VHR WAS GATHERING DATA FROM THE MAJOR VEHICLE SYSTEMS, THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION MESSAGE WILL BE REPORTED AS THE VHR LOOKS FOR ANY WARNING LAMPS ILLUMINATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. RERUN THE VHR WITH THE ENGINE ON AND VEHICLE IN PARK, AND ENSURE THE PARK BRAKE IS DISENGAGED. IF THE SYNC VHR IS STILL REPORTING A CONCERN TO THE CUSTOMERS SYNC OWNERS ACCOUNT, REFER TO THE APPROPRIATE WORKSHOP MANUAL SECTION FOR DIAGNOSIS BY DTC OR SYMPTOM. STARTING IN 2015 NOT ALL SYNC EQUIPPED VEHICLES SUPPORT VHR, REFER TO THE OWNERS MANUAL FOR VHR OPERATION.
- [ASI\-44429](/bulletins/10055318.md), 2014-05-08, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING; SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR/TONE RING; SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR. FORD/MERCURY: TO PREVENT HARNESS DAMAGE, ON SOME VEHICLES, RESULTING IN CONTACT WITH TIRE OR SUSPENSION COMPONENTS, PROPER ROUTING OF WIRING HARNESS FOR WHEEL SPEED SENSOR IS KEY. 2006\-2010 EXPLORER, MOUNTAINEER, EXPLORER SPORT TRAC. \*PE
- [CSP\-13N01](/bulletins/10052803.md), 2013-09-17, Service bulletin: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP. FORD: SEE SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON SOME VEHICLES, THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INDICATOR LIGHT ILLUMINATES SERVICE ENGINE SOON DUE TO LEAKAGE IN EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS \(EVAP\) SYSTEM, IF EASY FUEL CAPLESS FUEL FILL PIPE FLAP IS BENT ON PIVOTING AXIS. MODELS 2008\-2010 EXPLORER, MOUNTAINEER. \*PE
- [AS\-21769](/bulletins/10039053.md), 2011-07-07, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE; SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK; POWER TRAIN. FORD: IF THERE IS AN INTERMITTENT LACK OF POWER, SURGE, OR HESITATION WHILE DRIVING THE BRAKES WILL OVERRIDE ACCELERATION. \*RM
- [SB\-20705](/bulletins/10029565.md), 2009-07-10, Service bulletin: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE. FORD/MERCURY: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A NO CRANK, CRANK NO START, DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOM, OR IDLE CONCERN WITH OR WITHOUT MIL ILLUMINATION/DTC'S DUE TO THE PCM ENGINE HARNESS CHAFFING AGAINST THE PCM MOUNTING BRACKET. \*PE
- [ASI\-20589](/bulletins/10029167.md), 2009-06-22, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE \(TCM/PCM/TECM\). FORD/MERCURY: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT VARIOUS SYMPTOMS SUCH AS DRIVABILITY SYMPTOMS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO NO CRANK WITH/WITHOUT BLOWN FUSE, AND ILLUMINATION OF MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP. \*PE
- [TSB\-08\-19\-3](/bulletins/10028736.md), 2009-05-21, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL; POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT. FORD: SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT OIL SEPARATION FROM THE INTERNAL LUBE FOUND IN THE UNITIZED CARTRIDGE SEAL. OIL SEPARATION APPEARS TO BE AND IS OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED, AS AN AXLE LUBE LEAK. \*PE
- [TSB\-08\-9\-5](/bulletins/10026385.md), 2008-10-24, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE \(TCM/PCM/TECM\). FORD/MERCURY: 4.0L/4.6L HARD START/ROUGH RUNNING; AFTER LONG HOT SOAK/DIP IN RPM WHEN COMING TO A STOP; BUILT ON OR BEFORE 4/2/08. MAY EXHIBIT A DIP IN RPM BELOW NORMAL IDLE LEVEL OF 600 RPM ON DECELERATION. \*PE
- [08\-2\-8](/bulletins/10024323.md), 2008-04-04, Service bulletin: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP. IMPROVED BRAKE PEDAL FEEL AND FIRMNESS. \*NJ
- [07253](/bulletins/10023992.md), 2008-02-28, Service bulletin: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS. FUEL FILL\-\-SLOW OR EARLY SHUT OFF\-\-BUILT BEFORE 11/28/2007. \*NJ

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