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Service bulletins for the 2020 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.

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

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Only bulletins with component: Equipment and accessories are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 498682021-07-02. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Explorer vehicles may exhibit a lack of heat from the passenger side of the vehicle when using the climate control. When diagnosing for insufficient, erratic or no heat from passenger side floor vents, first perform pinpoint test (PPT) K.
TSB 21-21502021-06-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2019-2020 Edge/F-150/Fusion/Continental/MKZ/Nautilus, 2019-2021 Mustang/Ranger/Transit Connect, 2020-2021 EcoSport/Escape/Expedition/Explorer/F-Super Duty/Aviator/Corsair/Navigator and 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure.
SSM 498202021-06-01. 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 498032021-06-01. 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 495412021-03-03. 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.
20B512021-03-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SERVICE BRAKES; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. In some of the affected vehicles, the Electric Brake Booster (EBB) may contain a cracked solenoid valve plunger that may break and move out of position. A dislocated valve plunger may lead to the driver experiencing any of the following symptoms: Hard brake pedal, over-braking condition, and if certain other conditions are present, longer brake pedal travel with an incremental increase in stopping distance that would be accompanied by a red brake warning indicator lamp on the instrument panel cluster
SSM 494262021-02-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit the vehicle locator feature display the vehicle location incorrectly when using the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app. Customers may report that the vehicle location that is displayed is the Ford manufacturing facility were the vehicle was assembled, yet all other features work as intended. This may be due to the vehicle location not updating since assembly. If all other Ford Pass/Lincoln Way features work correctly except for the vehicle location, open the customer connectivity settings on the SYNC display and verify that the location setting is enabled. If the setting is currently enabled, disable and then re-enable the feature. If the vehicle location is still displayed incorrectly in the app, follow Workshop Manual section 415-00 for further diagnosis.
SSM 494372021-02-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:VEHICLE CONTROLS:BRAKING. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles built on or before 07-Dec-2020 may falsely store diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) U0415 and/or U3000:42 in the image processing module B (IPMB). These DTCs may be associated with camera display issues or a Reverse Brake Assist Unavailable fault message. To correct the condition, reprogram the IPMB using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 19H405 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 494332021-02-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; WHEELS; SERVICE BRAKES. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit an illuminated anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning lamp with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C0031, C0034, C0037, and/or C003A. This may be due to metal contamination on the wheel speed sensors or wheel speed sensor rings. Verify that all wheel speed sensors and wheel speed sensor rings are free of metal contamination before replacing them. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 206-09 for diagnostics.
TSB 20-23642021-02-04. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC; EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on or before 29-Feb-2020 may exhibit an illuminated anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning indicator lamp with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0020 stored in the ABS module. It may not be necessary to replace the ABS module/hydraulic control unit (HCU) to resolve DTC C0020. This may be due to a poor ground connection and/or improper plating on the attachment bolts at G108. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace and properly tighten the ground cable fasteners.
20B34-S12021-02-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; POWER TRAIN. In some of the affected vehicles, a leak in the transmission oil cooler may occur due to a crack developing near the oil cooler line fittings. Loss of transmission fluid could lead to transmission noise, harsh shifts or the inability to shift out of park.
TSB 20-24292021-01-05. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.3L hybrid engine and built on or before 21-Oct-2020 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0100 stored in the battery energy control module (BECM). This may be due to the software in the powertrain control module (PCM). To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to reprogram the PCM.
20B462021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS. In all of the affected vehicles, an incorrect left-hand rear door panel with the wrong color door handle switch bezel was installed.
TSB 20-24252021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicle may exhibit a water leak in the rear liftgate area and/or exhibit water in the spare tire area. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to identify the leak path.
SSM 494072021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 2.3L/3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or Engine Coolant Over Temperature warning with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0116, P0117, P0118, P0119, P0128, P0217, P0330, P1026, P1299, and/or P130D. This may be due to the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor or ECT sensor wiring harness. For 2.3L vehicles, replace the ECT sensor and pigtail wiring connector (GU2Z-14S411-KA). For 3.0L vehicles, replace the ECT and knock sensor. To aid with the engineering investigation, do not disconnect the wiring connector from the ECT sensor during disassembly. Leave the connector on the sensor in case parts are called back for analysis.
SSM 493782021-01-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:BLINDSPOT:SENSORS; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2020 Explorer Base vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) and class III trailer tow package 52T may exhibit an illuminated BLIS indicator and/or inability to turn the BLIS system off. This may be due to the software in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). To correct the condition, perform a programmable module installation (PMI) on the IPC using the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 10849 and applicable labor times from Section 10 in the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 493772021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine and built on or before 01-Dec-2020 may exhibit inoperative air conditioning, an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp, and/or an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with various diagnostic trouble codes present and a blown fuse F14. This may be due to wiring harness 14290 chaffing on the A/C compressor pulley. If chaffing is present, repair as necessary. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 005 for repair procedures. Make sure that the wiring harness retainer is fully seated in the back side of the bracket on the A/C compressor to keep the harness away from the compressor pulley.
SSM 493282020-12-04. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP; EQUIPMENT. Some 2019 MKC, 2019-2020 Edge/Nautilus/Escape/Ranger, 2020 Corsair, 2019-2021 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.0L and 2.3L EcoBoost engines may exhibit a light to moderate ticking type noise at idle (600-700 RPM). The noise is usually more prominent in the area of the high-pressure fuel pump, located on the top of the engine just behind the number 4 ignition coil. This noise is not detrimental to engine function and has no short or long-term effects on engine durability. This an operating characteristic of these engines and no repairs should be attempted.
TSB 20-23452020-11-05. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a hybrid powertrain may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0C48, P0C49, P2B29, P0CFF, P0E1F, P0C4B, P0C4A, P2CF3, P0A06, P0A07, P2D01, P2D00, P2D03, P2D04, P0C73, and/or P2D02 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to the software in the battery energy control module (BECM). To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to reprogram the BECM.
SSM 492842020-11-04. 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 492832020-11-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2017-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a telematics control unit (TCU) may exhibit incomplete user authorization, inoperative remote features and/or a message stating the system cannot access the Lincoln/FordPass Connect feature in the application due to being a fleet vehicle. Replacing the TCU will not resolve this condition. 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 492702020-11-04. Service bulletin. VISIBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020 Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on 26-May-2020 and through 28-May-2020 may have been built with windshield washer fluid contaminated with brake fluid. If a vehicle exhibits a-pillar and/or rear liftgate trim or tail lamp appearance concerns, collect a sample of the washer fluid using a suction device and place in a white paper or Styrofoam cup. Washer fluid that appears green in color would indicate the washer fluid has been contaminated. Flush the washer fluid system and repair the affected windshield a-pillar area and liftgate area as necessary.
SSM 492452020-11-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles built on or before 30-Sep-2020 may experience an intermittent or constant blank/black screen on the center infotainment display due the low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) cable at the SYNC accessory protocol interface module (APIM) not being fully seated. Verify that the connector is fully seated into the APIM prior to performing any other diagnostics or repairs on the vehicle for this concern. If the connection is found loose, re-seat the connection and retest.
SSM 492012020-10-06. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor vehicles built on or before 19-Aug-2019 may exhibit an A/C system that is inoperative or does not cool properly. This may be due to a low refrigerant charge and/or system leak. Normal Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnosis and testing procedures may not verify any leaks. If this occurs, pressurize the system and spray the brazed joint of the thermostatic expansion valve manifold and tube assembly with soapy water just above where the retaining bracket/insulator bolts to the right side frame rail and check for leaks.
SSM 491632020-10-06. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY. Some 2020 Escape and Explorer hybrid vehicles may experience discharge of the high voltage battery (HVB) with DTCs P0DE6 and P0A7D. This may be due to the vehicle not being operated for an extended length of time or from a crank/no-start condition. If the HVB is discharged, refer to the applicable GSB and Workshop Manual section to confirm if off-board charging is required. Note that the voltages in the GSB do not apply to 2020 Escape and Explorer. Using the appropriate Ford scan tool, monitor PID values: HVBAT_V on 2020 Escape (at least 90V, but less than 165V)and 2020 Explorer HVBAT_V (at least 114V, but less than 210V). For both vehicles, HEV_BAT_MIN_V should be greater than 1.45V, and HEV_BAT_VAR_V less than 2.5V. If the values are within limits and the HVB is suitable for a rescue charge, contact the Technical Assistance Center to request a high voltage charger.

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