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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 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

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Only bulletins with component: Electrical system are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 477972019-04-08. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2009-2017 Expedition/Navigator, 2009-2014 F-150/Mustang, 2008-2009 Sable, 2008-2019 Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility, and 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit inoperative or intermittent HVAC blower motor function at various fan speed settings. This may be due to a poor electrical connection at the blower motor speed control. If the blower motor speed control is determined to be the causal part, replacement of the electrical connector pigtail harness (14S411) to the blower motor speed control is also recommended to avoid repeat repairs. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 5 for recommended splicing procedures. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cells 54/55 to obtain the service pigtail connector part number.
SSM 478992019-04-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2019 F-Super Duty, 2017-2019 Continental, and 2016-2018 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit a crank/no start condition, inoperative trailer tow lighting and/or inoperative power telescoping mirrors. This may be due to a concern within the battery junction box (BJB) relay module. A lower level service part has been released to allow for replacement of just the BJB relay module instead of the BJB harness. F-Super Duty part number HU5Z-14A067-A, Continental part number GU5Z-14A067-C, Explorer part number FU5Z-14A067-A, Police Interceptor Utility part number GU5Z-14A067-B.
SSM 478792019-04-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Various 2019 vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and the latest software version 3.2 may exhibit an error message when attempting to update the software to version 3.3. Professional Technician Society (PTS) website may show that software version 3.3 is available for 2019 SYNC 3 vehicles. Do not carry out this update as it may lead to a hardware error message. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 478242019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2017 vehicles may experience a no crank concern due to a security access key table error. When attempting to program keys or perform a parameter reset, the procedure may fail and the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) scan tool may display an error 232: Key Table Not Allocated. If this error message is encountered, the Body Control Module (BCM) is internally faulted and requires replacement. For claiming, use causal part 15604 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 478212019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 477972019-04-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2009-2017 Expedition/Navigator, 2009-2014 F-150/Mustang, 2008-2009 Sable, 2008-2019 Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility, and 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit inoperative or intermittent HVAC blower motor function at various fan speed settings. This may be due to a poor electrical connection at the blower motor speed control. If the blower motor speed control is determined to be the causal part, replacement of the electrical connector pigtail harness (14S411) to the blower motor speed control is also recommended to avoid repeat repairs. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 5 for recommended splicing procedures. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cells 54/55 to obtain the service pigtail connector part number.
SSM 477502019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM). Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programing remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle. Verify that the electronic serial number (ESN) is now displayed. Start a new IDS/FDRS session. Program the TCU to the latest IDS/FDRS version level. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual(WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 477112019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and a 6, 8 or 10 inch screen may show a pop-up message every key cycle that states 'SYNC can check for updates when connected to a WiFi network'. To remove the inconvenience of the pop-up the customer can either connect to a trusted WiFi network to complete the setup process or turn off WiFi in the WiFi settings located under the Settings menu. Adjusting the setting for the customer is not a warrantable defect.
SSM 477352019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Some 2018-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit inoperative remote features via Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 or no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes prior to programing. Delete all previous session files for the vehicle and do not install the TCU fuse until a new IDS session has been started. Once the new session has been started and the fuse reinstalled, the TCU can be programmed. Make sure you are connected to the internet before retesting. If the concern is still present, follow normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. Refer to PTS OASIS home page for TCU version identification. For claiming, use causal part 14G229.
SSM 476352019-01-07. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. When connecting the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) to the DLC located on the driver side under the steering column at the GWM, make sure that the ignition is off before connecting the VCM. If the ignition is on or the engine is running during the connection, it can result in various warning lights being illuminated with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), no start, no crank conditions or the IPC inoperative. If a vehicle displays these issues, disconnect the equipment from the DLC and disconnect the vehicle battery. Wait 10 minutes and reinstall with the ignition off. Clear any DTCs present and retest.
18B252018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Certain 2018 Model Year Explorer And Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles Key Off Load Battery Drain
SSM 475462018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 110V power outlet may exhibit a high pitched buzzing or ringing noise from the right side front interior area while the engine is running. If replacing the DC/AC inverter does not resolve the concern, replace the fuel pump control module with part number FU5Z-9D370-B. Inspect the new replacement module and ensure the engineering part number suffix shows "LA" before installing. If the fuel pump control module has an engineering part number suffix "JA", the part should be returned via the normal part return process. For claiming, use causal part 9D370 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 475382018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit the Android Auto Preference menu selection is not present after an update to version 3.0 software. In prior versions of SYNC 3 software this menu was present, however in version 3.0 software the Android Auto Preference menu will only show up once an Android Phone has been initially connected to SYNC. This an operating characteristic of the Android Auto application after the SYNC 3.0 update and no repairs should be attempted.
SSM 475142018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with Police, Base 100A, or XLT 200A package trim levels (Type 1 analog cluster in the Owner's Manual) built on 08-May-2018 and through 05-Aug-2018 may exhibit a parasitic battery drain of approximately 250 milliamps with the instrument panel cluster (IPC) possibly staying awake with the key off. This may result in a no crank/no start/discharged battery condition. To resolve the concern, reprogram the IPC using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. Make sure the vehicle is connected to a battery charger. For claiming, use causal part 10849 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
18B242018-11-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY; EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Certain 2018 Model Year Explorer And Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles Key Off Load Battery Drain Certain 2018 Model Year MKZ Hybrid Vehicles Equipped with the Magnetic Appearance Package - Accelerator Pedal and Brake Pedal Cover Replacement
SSM 475702018-11-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles built on or before 07-Aug-2018 may automatically switch from A/C to heat and defrost after 1 minute during a remote start event when the customer expects the A/C to remain on. To resolve the concern, reprogram the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control module using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 19980 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 474882018-09-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with Police, Base 100A, or XLT 200A package trim levels (Type 1 analog cluster in the Owner's Manual) built on 08-May-2018 and through 05-Aug-2018 may exhibit a parasitic battery drain of approximately 250 milliamps with the instrument panel cluster (IPC) possibly staying awake with the key off. This may result in a no crank/no start/discharged battery condition. To resolve the concern, reprogram the IPC using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 10849 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 474442018-09-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, Slow System Response, etc. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. After Installation, complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 474112018-09-10. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP. Some 2018 Explorers equipped with Platinum trim level built on 25-Oct-2017 and through 01-May-2018 may intermittently display a "Hill Descent Control Fault" message in the IPC briefly at start up without any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. Reprogram the IPC using the appropriate Ford scan tool or equivalent release 110.03 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. For claiming, use causal part 10849 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 473932018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2016-2018 Explorer vehicles may automatically switch from A/C to heat and defrost after 1 minute during a remote start idle when the customer expects the A/C remain on. The system will return to normal operation after the ignition is turned to the run position. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates. To assist with the investigation, use the Report A Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report to complete the form.
SSM 473802018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. After Installation Complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 473792018-07-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Various 2016-2018 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the vehicle is at version 2.2 please update the module to the latest software level. After the software is updated make sure you shut the vehicle off, open the door for 2 minutes, then turn the key back on before testing the touch screen. If the software is at a later version than 2.2, proceed with normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the Service Labor Times Standards (SLTS) manual.
SSM 473502018-07-23. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. RKE stand alone key fobs can be added to 2016 and newer Police Utility vehicles not previously equipped with them. To program the fobs, start an IDS session and enter the Red Toolbox > Module Programming > Programmable Parameters > Police Mode > Remote Keyfob Learn > Enable. Next, refer to the RKE Transmitter Programming procedure listed in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-14 > General Procedures to program the fobs. If the RKE fobs fail to program, verify that the fobs are the correct part number. If the fobs are correct for the vehicle, then refer to the inoperative key fob diagnostics outlined in WSM, Section 501-14. This procedure and part numbers do not apply to 2015 and previous model year Police Utility vehicles. Blue lift gate button fobs are part No. GB5Z-15K601-C and red panic button fobs are part No. GB5Z-15K601-A.
TSB18-20072018-06-11. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2017-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine built on or before 7-Dec-2017 may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P04DB (crankcase ventilation system disconnected) in the powertrain control module (PCM) memory. Reprogram the PCM using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software (FJDS) release 108.02 or higher. Make sure you are connected to the internet when entering module programming to obtain the latest updates. Calibration files may also be obtained at www.motorcraftservice.com.
TSB17-22512018-05-29. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2018 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 110V power outlet may exhibit a high pitched buzzing or ringing noise from the right side front interior area while the engine is running. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.