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.
By type
By component
By trouble code
By topic
| SSM 49821 | 2021-06-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
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| SSM 49820 | 2021-06-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners may experience a condition of missing Authorization, Command and Control, Battery Charging Details or Phone-as-a-Key setup buttons/selections in their FordPass or LincolnWay App. This condition is due to an error within the FordPass or LincolnWay App and not due to a concern on the vehicle. Verify that the customers FordPass or LincolnWay App is at the latest version. Replacement or reprogramming of the telematics control unit (TCU)/gateway module (GWM)/remote function actuator (RFA) will not resolve this condition. If the condition persists, Utilize the FordPass Guides or Lincoln Way Concierge teams. |
| SSM 49803 | 2021-06-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control unit (TCU). These symptoms may persist even after performing a TCU software update and/or replacement. To correct this condition, start a new session with the latest version of the appropriate diagnostic scan tool and perform a PMI on the TCU. If issues persist, open a hotline assistance request and include the IDS version (if applicable) used to perform the PMI and the Authorization Status PID value in the TCU datalogger. For claiming use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor times in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 49795 | 2021-06-01. Service bulletin. COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may not be able to perform remote commands via the FordPass/LincolnWay App due to an erroneous deep sleep message. If the vehicle has been driven within 14 days and the battery state of charge is above 9.5 volts when the deep sleep message set, this is an erroneous message. Starting and running the vehicle will clear the message and allow the remote commands to function again. Inform customers that engineering is currently working on a solution for this condition that will be released via an over the air (OTA) update that is expected in June 2021. Replacement or reprogramming of the telematics control unit (TCU)/gateway module (GWM) will not resolve this condition. Monitor OASIS for additional information and schedule service appointments for customers once the repair becomes available. |
| 21B13 | 2021-04-03. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Certain 2017-2019 Model Year Explorer Vehicles Rear Wheel Knuckle and Toe Link Replacement This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field parts for testing. Ford is voluntarily conducting this program to replace both rear toe links and wheel knuckles on vehicles always registered and always residing in the Detroit (and Toronto) area. The replacement toe links and knuckles being installed contain no enhancements and are identical to the parts being removed. It is very important that parts obtained from this program be returned to Ford for this study |
| 20N11-S2 | 2021-04-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Certain 2016 - 2019 Model Year Explorer Vehicles equipped with a Roof Rail Roof Rail Cover Detachment On some of the affected vehicles, the roof rail covers can become loose, which can lead to a visible gap between the cover and roof rail base assembly, rattling, and potential detachment |
| SSM 49618 | 2021-03-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2018-2021 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P025A And/Or DTC 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 or loose/corroded grounds. Inspect FPCM connector, applicable grounds(F-150- G401, Expedition/Navigator- G403, Transit- G401, 2018-2019 Explorer G302, 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator- G407) and confirm FPCM connector (F-150- C4336, Expedition/Navigator- C433, Transit- C433, 2018-2019 Explorer C3239, 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator- C4033) is fully seated prior to performing PC/ED diagnostics or replacing any components. |
| SSM 49541 | 2021-03-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with TCU and WiFi Hotspot, May display Vehicle Hotspot feature not enabled on this vehicle when attempting to enter the Hotspot menu. When using the FordPass/Lincoln Way application, the customer may receive a message saying Wi-Fi has been disabled from this vehicle. Check the vehicle specifications or vehicle build information for the mfal code on the PTS website (Detailed Vehicle Specifications). If mfal = WAFAC or WAFAB do not replace the TCU, engineering is currently investigating this condition. Inform customers Ford is developing a software fix that is expected in early March. In the interim, let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule a follow-up appointment with the customer for early March. Monitor OASIS for updates. |
| 20N11-S1 | 2021-03-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; STRUCTURE; EQUIPMENT. A new 3M adhesive is now available, allowing a longer working time, along with mixing nozzles and applicator. 3M Universal Adhesive Black Part Number 08223, 3M Static Mixing Nozzles Part Number 08193 This program provides a one-time repair for the roof rail covers and retaining clips to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. This is a one-time repair program. Both roof rail covers should be serviced at time of repair. If a vehicle has already exceeded either the time or mileage limits, this extended warranty coverage will last through June 30, 2021. Coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners. |
| 20N07-S2 | 2021-03-03. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This program extends the warranty coverage of the automatic transmission torque converter for twelve (12) months from the RO date of Powertrain Control Module reflash under Customer Satisfaction Program 20B27. |
| 20N11 | 2021-01-05. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS; EQUIPMENT. On some of the affected vehicles, the roof rail covers can become loose, which can lead to a visible gap between the cover and roof rail base assembly, rattling, and potential detachment. |
| 20N07-S1 | 2021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; POWER TRAIN. In some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience adverse NVH, vibration and/or rough idle in Drive or Reverse, low performance/lack of acceleration during launch, sluggish vehicle operation and shudder while driving |
| TSB 20-2271 | 2021-01-05. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. Some 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit a vibration/rough idle when the vehicle is in DRIVE or REVERSE. The vehicle may also exhibit a lack of engine revolutions per minute (RPM), lack of acceleration on take off and/or shudder while driving. This may be due to the torque converter overheating causing damage to the torque converter as well as possible internal damage to the transmission. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to replace the torque converter and specified internal transmission components that may have been damaged. |
| 20N07 | 2020-11-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. In some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience adverse NVH, vibration and/or rough idle in Drive or Reverse, low performance / lack of acceleration during launch, sluggish vehicle operation and shudder while driving. |
| 20B27 | 2020-11-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. In affected vehicles, the transmission torque converter may overheat in certain driving conditions. If the torque converter overheats it can lead to adverse NVH, rough idle, and low performance concerns. Ultimately this will require internal transmission repairs to resolve the concern. Ford Motor Company has developed and update to the Powertrain Control Module software that helps protect the transmission torque converter from overheating when exposed to certain driving styles. |
| SSM 49288 | 2020-11-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE. Some 2018 EcoSport/Expedition/Explorer vehicles equipped with a telematics control unit (TCU) module may exhibit an inoperative remote start with a Vehicle Failed To Start message when using the Ford Pass mobile application. This message may be observed even if the vehicle has been driven immediately prior to the remote start request. Other functions such as remote lock and unlock from the Ford Pass mobile application will work as expected. Engineering is currently investigating this condition. Inform customers Ford is developing a software fix that is expected in early January. In the interim, let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule a follow-up appointment with the customer for early January. Once the update becomes available, contact the customer and confirm the service appointment is going forward. Monitor OASIS for updates. |
| SSM 49292 | 2020-11-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM). Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control unit (TCU). These symptoms may persist even after performing a TCU software update and/or replacement. To correct this condition, start a new session with the latest version of the appropriate diagnostic scan tool and perform a PMI on the TCU. If issues persist, open a hotline assistance request and include the IDS version (if applicable) used to perform the PMI and the Authorization Status PID value in the TCU datalogger. For claiming use causal part 14H092 and applicable labor times in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 49284 | 2020-11-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with TCU and WiFi Hotspot, May display Vehicle Hotspot feature not enabled on this vehicle when attempting to enter the Hotspot menu. When using the FordPass/Lincoln Way application, the customer may receive a message saying Wi-Fi has been disabled from this vehicle. Check the vehicle specifications or vehicle build information for the mfal code. If mfal = WAFAC or WAFAB do not replace the TCU, engineering is currently investigating this condition. Inform customers Ford is developing a software fix that is expected in early January. In the interim, let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule a follow-up appointment with the customer for early January. Once the update becomes available, contact the customer and confirm the service appointment is going forward. Monitor OASIS for updates. |
| SSM 49210 | 2020-10-06. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General Information > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method procedure. When an oil leak is present at a turbocharger oil supply or drain tube, remove the affected oil tube and inspect for damage, and replace the O-ring seals, pedestal gasket or oil tube as required. Refer to WSM, Section 303-04. For claiming, use the affected oil tube or pedestal gasket as the causal part and applicable labor operations in Sections 6 and 9 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 49084 | 2020-09-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2020 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 no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition prior to programming, 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 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| TSB 20-2255 | 2020-09-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F150/Focus/CMAX/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. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure. |
| 19M01 S1 | 2020-08-06. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Certain 2013-2019 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles Equipped with a 3.7L Engine Catalytic Converter Extended Coverage This program extends the warranty coverage of the catalytic converters to 11 years of service or 120,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first |
| TSB 20-2233 | 2020-08-06. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE. This article supersedes TSB 19-2026 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2000 and newer Ford/Lincoln/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. |
| SSM 49001 | 2020-08-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2019 Explorer/Expedition/F-150/F-Super Duty/Taurus vehicles equipped with a forward collision warning head up display (HUD) may exhibit various warning indicators caused by a possible intermittent lack of HS2-CAN (HS-CAN for Taurus) network communication. If the concern cannot be duplicated, place the vehicle in direct sunlight for 15 to 30 minutes to increase the temperature of the HUD and retest. If the concern is present, disconnect the HUD and check for proper network communication. If proper network communication is achieved, then HUD module replacement is likely needed. If disconnecting the HUD does not re-establish communication, the HUD is not at fault, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 418-00 for diagnostics. |
| SSM 48989 | 2020-08-04. Service bulletin. STEERING. Some 2017-2019 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit various noise concerns while turning. Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02 Power Steering > Diagnosis and Testing has been updated with improved information to aid with accurate noise diagnosis. Replacing the steering gear may not necessarily eliminate the noise concern. Use Chassis Ears on all suspected components to accurately diagnose noise concerns. |
The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.