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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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Bulletins, newest first
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 478142019-04-01. Service bulletin. SEATS. Some 2016-2019 Explorer, 2016-2018 MKX, 2019 Edge/Nautilus, 2017-2019 Fusion/MKZ, and 2018-2019 F-150/Mustang/Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with climate controlled seats may exhibit a buzzing noise from the front seats, front seats too warm, and/or inoperative climate controlled front seats. DTCs B14BA:13, B1154:4B, and/or B14B9:13 may also be present. This may be due to loose terminal pin fit on the driver seat module (DSM) connector C341D (16 pin). If a loose terminal pin fit condition is found during normal diagnostics per Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-10, a new service pigtail connector (part number 3U2Z-14S411-BRAB) is available. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 119 to make sure C341D is a 16 pin connector and not a 20 pin connector. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 5 for the recommended splicing procedures.
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.
TSB 19-20262019-04-01. 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
TSB 19-20172019-04-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; EQUIPMENT. Some all-wheel drive (AWD) 2013-2018 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L/1.6L/2.0L EcoBoost/Fusion vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost/MKZ vehicles equipped with 2.0L EcoBoost, 2017-18 MKZ vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoBoost, 2015-2018 MKC vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost/Edge vehicles equipped with 2.0L/2.7L EcoBoost, 2016-2018 MKX vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.7L EcoBoost/Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost/Focus RS equipped with 2.3L EcoBoost, and 2017-2018 Continental vehicles equipped with 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost may exhibit a dark black fluid leak from the right side transfer case intermediate shaft seal. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
TSB 19-20022019-04-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2011-2019 Explorer and 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit a detached center console rear cup holder and/or the cover panel detached from the rear cup holder. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
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 477492019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2012-2019 Vehicles may require repairs to the Smartlink system. Smartlink is a Ford Licensed Accessory which has a warranty provided by the accessory manufacturer. Warranty replacement parts for Smartlink that are ordered through Ford are not reimbursable through the Ford Motor Company warranty system. Please see the Warranty and Policy Manual for further information on Ford Licensed Accessories.
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.
TSB 18-23612019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SEATS. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2019 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 Edge/F150/MKC/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017 Super Duty, 2018-2019 EcoSport/Expedition, and 2019 Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or clunk/thump noise on turns. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
TSB 18-23582019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2018-2019 Explorer vehicles built on or before 13-Nov-2018 equipped with a 4G telematics control unit (TCU) modem may exhibit an Acquiring Signal message with a loss of satellite radio reception while driving in unobstructed areas. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 477382019-03-04. Service bulletin. SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER. Some 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit a heated lower front seat cushion that does not operate properly after turning the ignition on after a remote start event. To temporarily resolve the concern, the heated seat control switch may be cycled off and then back on. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating. To assist with the investigation, use the Report a Vehicle Concern link at the bottom of the OASIS report and fill out the form. Monitor OASIS for updates.
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 476622019-01-07. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER. For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. For all turbocharged engine applications, the turbocharger oil supply filter (6C683 gas engine/6L625 connector style or 6A968 diesel engine) must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
SSM 476382019-01-07. Service bulletin. STEERING; STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR. 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a LKS system with customer complaints of steering wheel vibration, steering pull or vehicle drift may be due to an alert and/or steering aid input from the LKS. The LKS system detects unintentional drifting toward the outside of the lane and alerts and/or aids vehicle to stay in the lane. Be sure the customer understands how the lane departure warning feature settings work for Alert (steering wheel vibration) and Aid (steering input toward lane center). Further information on the LKS can be found in the owners manual. If the customers concern is due to the LKS functioning as intended, do not attempt to repair.
SSM 476372019-01-07. Service bulletin. SEATS; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES. Some 2016-2019 Explorers equipped with the power folding 3rd row seat may experience a seat that will not latch/unlatch from folded or normal positions. This may be due to misalignment between the seat latch and the anchor bracket or misalignment between the load floor support and the load floor panel. If the seats attempt to move and stop, attempt to neutralize the anchor brackets and load floor support brackets to improve latch alignment before replacing any parts. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 501-10C for torque specifications.
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 475472018-12-03. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility vehicles may exhibit a reduced top speed after a transmission fluid service with unapproved fluid. The use of unapproved fluid or improper transmission fluid level can lead to reduced vehicle performance and transmission damage that is not covered under warranty. Use only Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid, XT-10-QLVC (US), CXT-10-LV12 (Canada). Use only the Transmission Fluid Exchanger process when performing service intervals. Check and adjust transmission fluid level only at normal operating temperatures of 82?C-93?C (180?F-200?F). The fluid adjustment procedure requires using the appropriate Ford scan tool or equivalent to verify fluid temperature. For optimum performance at high speeds, adjust fluid level to the top of the "MIN" mark on the dipstick.
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 475332018-12-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2018 Explorer, Expedition, F150 excluding Raptor fleet vehicles equipped with a telematics control unit (TCU) may exhibit incomplete Ford Telematics service subscription activation, inability to remotely interface with a vehicle, and/or not receiving fleet alerts. Reprogram the TCU using the appropriate Ford scan tool at the latest software level. Fleet vehicle and TCU type can be identified in the Vehicle Information section of OASIS. TCU will be listed as 4G SYNC Connect. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.

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