# Service bulletins for the 2018 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.

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

- [25E10\-S1](/bulletins/11037788.md), 2026-10-02, Other: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; UNKNOWN OR OTHER; POWER TRAIN. 25E10\-S1 Owner letter
- [25E10\-S1](/bulletins/11035464.md), 2026-08-03, Emissions: UNKNOWN OR OTHER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. NEW VEHICLE DELIVERY HOLD \- Emissions Recall 25E10 \- Supplement \#1 Certain 2018\-2020 Model Year F\-150 Vehicles With 3.3L Engines and 2016\-2019 Model Year Explorer, Taurus, and Flex Vehicles With 3.5L Engines Powertrain Control Module \(PCM\) Reprogramming
- [25B51](/bulletins/11033577.md), 2026-06-05, Other: ENGINE. Certain 2021\-2024 Model Year Bronco, 2021\-2024 Model Year Bronco Sport, 2020\-2022 Model Year Corsair and Escape, 2016\-2024 Model Year Explorer, 2019\-2020 Model Year Fusion, 2016\-2018 Model Year Focus RS, 2022\-2024 Model Year Maverick, 2016\-2019 Model Year MKC and 2019\-2024 Model Year Ranger Vehicles Equipped with a 2.0L or 2.3L Engine and Engine Block Heater System Block Heater Replacement
- [25N17](/bulletins/11030282.md), 2026-03-27, Other: LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION; BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS; BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Advance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015\-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation
- [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
- [TSB 25\-2570](/bulletins/11025837.md), 2025-12-01, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. This article supersedes TSB 24\-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to: Display operation concerns Navigation inoperative Voice recognition concerns Phone connection issues Dropped phone connections Applink related performance Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic Slow system response NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software. The SYNC 3 universal thumb drive will be able to update the APIM software without the use of a scan tool and does not require the process to be monitored. Ford will be monitoring APIM replacements to confirm TSB directed software updates have been performed.
- [SSM 54366](/bulletins/11025611.md), 2025-11-19, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015\-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes \(DTCs\) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis \(PC/ED\) or in Section 303\-14 of the Workshop Manual \(WSM\) has been updated to address this concern.
- [TSB 25\-2005](/bulletins/11013144.md), 2025-01-27, Service bulletin: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. "Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: • Customer concern of a vibration or rough idle in D or R • Shudder while driving • Lack of engine RPM • Low performance, lack of acceleration on take off"
- [SSM 53040](/bulletins/11008948.md), 2024-10-16, Service bulletin: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012\-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions. While performing a transmission repair on some 2012\-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.
- [TSB 24\-2165](/bulletins/11001174.md), 2024-06-06, Service bulletin: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. This article supersedes TSB 21\-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016\-2017 Navigator, 2016\-2018 F\-150/Focus/C\-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017\-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017\-2019 Explorer, 2016\-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F\-Super Duty, and 2018\-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. related concerns including but not limited to: Display operation concerns Navigation inoperative Voice recognition concerns Phone connection issues Dropped phone connections Applink related performance Travel Link not present or showing incorrect traffic Slow system response This may be due to the SYNC software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the accessory protocol interface module \(APIM\) software. NOTE: Ford has found some of the APIMs replaced and returned for inspection contained an outdated software level and the APIM did not require replacement. The customer concern may have been resolved by updating the APIM with latest level of software.
- [SSM 52483](/bulletins/10254142.md), 2024-05-03, Service bulletin: UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2018\-2019 Explorer and 2018\-2024 Transit/F\-150/Expedition/Navigator vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes \(DTCs\) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module \(PCM\). Diagnosis should include checking for an intermittent or partial disconnect of the harness to the fuel pump control module \(FPCM\) connector, connector pin push\-outs, damaged pins/terminals, or loose/corroded grounds. Confirm FPCM connector \(Explorer \- C3239, Transit \- C433, F\-150 \- C460/C4336, Expedition/Navigator \- C433/C4033\) is fully seated and inspect applicable grounds \(Explorer G302, Transit \- G401, F\-150 \- G401, Expedition/Navigator \- G403/G406\) prior to performing guided diagnostics or replacing any components.
- [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 52335](/bulletins/10251952.md), 2024-03-20, Service bulletin: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. For 2015\-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual \(WSM\), Section 303\-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.
- [SSM 52314](/bulletins/10251934.md), 2024-03-20, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN. During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage. Replacement of the bolt is critical to the repair and accurately following the installation procedure in the Workshop Manual \(WSM\) Section, 303\-01 is extremely important. The bolt torque procedure can be found in the crankshaft front seal removal and installation procedure or in the engine assembly procedure.
- [23L06](/bulletins/10251252.md), 2024-03-05, Service bulletin: SEAT BELTS. Certain 2013\-2019 Model Year Explorer Police Interceptor Vehicles \- Owner Guide Update
- [SSM 51838](/bulletins/10241627.md), 2023-09-04, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. In various 2017\-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the \(SYNC Connect\) FordPass or LincolnWay app through the TCU Embedded Modem. If this message appears, the vehicle may be equipped with a fleet telematics module. Replacement of the TCU or TCU related repairs will not prevent this message from appearing. Refer the customer to in app FordPass Guides or LincolnWay Concierge Teams to aid with fleet telematics removal. Open app, select Account \> Help \> CHAT or CALL option.
- [SAN\-Vol1 I1](/bulletins/10240743.md), 2023-08-16, Service bulletin: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and other service information.
- [SSM 51536](/bulletins/10235153.md), 2023-05-04, Service bulletin: STRUCTURE. For 2000\-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number \(VIN\) from a different vehicle. Most modules on these affected vehicles are VIN/vehicle specific and hardware variations between modules do exist. Swapping a module from a vehicle or ordering a module using a different vehicle/VIN can cause ineffective repairs and additional vehicle down time. Make sure all appropriate Workshop Manual \(WSM\) procedures are followed when diagnosing the condition prior to all module replacements and only order modules using the correct VIN.
- [SSM 51306](/bulletins/10230835.md), 2023-02-02, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018\-2023 F\-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes \(DTCs\) P0627, P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or U0109 stored in the powertrain control module \(PCM\). This may be due to an intermittent or partial disconnect of the harness to the fuel pump control module \(FPCM\) connector, connector pin push\-outs, damaged pins/terminals, or loose/corroded grounds. Inspect FPCM connector, applicable grounds \(F\-150 \- G401, Expedition/Navigator \- G403, Transit \- G401, 2018\-2019 Explorer G302, 2020\-2022 Explorer/Aviator \- G407\) and confirm FPCM connector \(F\-150 \- C4336, Expedition/Navigator \- C433, Transit \- C433, 2018\-2019 Explorer \- C3239, 2020\-2022 Explorer/Aviator \- C4033\) is fully seated prior to performing PC/ED diagnostics or replacing any components.
- [SSM 51291](/bulletins/10230788.md), 2023-01-31, Service bulletin: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD. Some 2013\-2019 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, equipped with spotlights, require left and/or right windshield applique/moulding modification if these parts are replaced. Spotlight mounting holes are not present on new replacement windshield appliques/moldings and must be cut using a rotary tool or equivalent. Left and/or right windshield applique/moulding spotlight mounting hole templates are available on the Professional Technician Society \(PTS\) at Service Tips/Technical Communications and can be printed on an 11X17 inch sheet of paper. Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 501\-08 for windshield applique/moulding replacement procedures.
- [20N07 S2](/bulletins/10222455.md), 2022-10-05, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN. Certain 2015\-2019 MKC and 2016\-2019 Explorer Vehicles Equipped With the 2.3L Engine and 6F35 Transmission \- Transmission Extended Warranty Coverage Updated Owner Letters: 20N07/20B27 S1
- [20B27 S1](/bulletins/10222454.md), 2022-10-05, Service bulletin: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; POWER TRAIN. Certain 2015\-2019 MKC and 2016\-2019 Explorer Vehicles Equipped With the 2.3L Engine and 6F35 Transmission Powertrain Control Module Reprogram Submitting Owner Letters
- [21N01 S2](/bulletins/10219060.md), 2022-09-01, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Certain 2016\-2018 Model Year Explorer Vehicles High\-Speed Cooling Fan Motor Relay; Reason for supplement: Vehicles Covered by this Program: all open / unrepaired vehicles from 21B05 \(Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles\) have been added to 21N01 as 21B05 expires August 31, 2022. Owner Notification: Police Interceptor Utility owners who have not completed 21B05 will be mailed a letter describing this change.
- [20B27 S1](/bulletins/10219034.md), 2022-09-01, Service bulletin: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE \(TCM/PCM/TECM\); POWER TRAIN; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE. Certain 2015\-2019 MKC and 2016\-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with the 2.3L engine and 6F35 transmission; Powertrain Control Module reprogram. Supplement: Program terms will be in effect through August 31, 2023 This program is now eligible for mobile repairs
- [SSM 50975](/bulletins/10217028.md), 2022-08-02, Service bulletin: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017\-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. This occurs when the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module \(BCM\) 12 volt battery state of charge \(SOC\) drops below 50%. A warning may also set if the telematic control unit \(TCU\) has received an over the air update. The TCU powers down all communication when in this mode and app features are disabled. Manually start the vehicle to wake if from mode. More information is located in the app under: Account \> Help \> search 'Deep Sleep' in the entry box. If the condition remains, check the BCM 12v SOC. If the SOC does not change after charging the battery or after BMS reset is performed, continue with normal battery and/or BMS sensor diagnostics.

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