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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
TSB 22-22902022-07-28. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. 2020-2021 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.3L Duratec, 3.3L Duratec Hybrid, or 3.0L EcoBoost engine have a module programming update that allows the operator to command a virus reducing heating procedure that, when combined with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, helps reduce virus counts inside the interior of Police Interceptor Utility vehicles. Follow the Service Procedure to perform the virus reducing heating procedure.
TSB 22-22622022-07-08. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit a lack of audio and/or a water leak in the rear liftgate area and/or water in the spare tire area. The customer may indicate that this concern is more noticeable after a car wash or rainfall. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to identify the leak path.
SSM 508822022-06-30. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:TV/RADIO/SPEAKERS. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit a concern of inoperative, rattling, crackling and/or distorted sound from one or more speakers. In order to correct the condition, make sure to completely follow the diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 415-00, Pinpoint Test D for vehicles without SYNC 3, and WSM, Section 415-00B, Pinpoint Test E for vehicles equipped with SYNC 3. If the diagnostics point towards speaker replacement, remove and re-center the speaker, making sure to tighten to the specified torque and retest. Refer to WSM, Section 415-00.
SSM 506512022-05-04. Service bulletin. COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS; EQUIPMENT. In various 2017-2022 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. Please 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
TSB 22-21442022-04-26. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; STEERING. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a power adjustable steering column may exhibit a creak/squeal type noise during up or down travel, including ingress/egress and/or driver memory function. This symptom may be more prevalent with warmer interior temperatures and/or during summer months. This may be due to a lack of lubrication in the steering column. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the steering column.
SSM 506592022-04-13. Service bulletin. BACK OVER PREVENTION; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2022 Transit Connect/Transit/Explorer vehicles equipped with a fleet telematics global positioning system (GPS) and a connected human machine interface (HMI) radio (CHR) may experience concerns with rear camera zoom, wrong map matching or a blank display. If these concerns are present, it's likely to be a software issue caused by the audio control module (ACM) that can be remedied by updating the ACM software to the latest level with the FDRS application. If the update does not resolve the concern, refer to the Workshop Manual. For claiming, use causal part 18C869 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 506392022-03-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine may appear to have a low engine oil level if the proper procedures are not followed. Refer to the Owner's Manual, Maintenance, Engine oil check section. When checking the engine oil level after shutting off the engine wait at least 15 minutes prior to checking in order to allow the oil to drain back to the oil pan. The engine oil level can be checked immediately if the engine has not been started. When changing the engine oil the engine needs to be at normal operating temperature and the oil filter removed before draining the oil. Allow the oil pan to drain completely for up to 5 minutes. Check oil level after filling by following the oil level check procedure.
SSM 505882022-03-22. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Some 2017-2022 Transit Connect/Transit/Explorer vehicles equipped with a fleet telematics global positioning system (GPS) and a connected human machine interface (HMI) radio (CHR) may experience concerns with rear camera zoom, wrong map matching or a blank display. If these concerns are present, it's likely to be a software issue caused by the audio control module (ACM) that can be remedied by the following: If the existing ACM software level is at H1BT-14G298-GS or higher, update the ACM software with the FDRS application or, if the ACM software level is H1BT-14G298-GR or lower, it cannot be updated and the ACM will need to be replaced with the latest level part number.
TSB 22-21002022-03-22. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SEATS; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. This article supersedes TSB 21-2185 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator/Corsair vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement and/or clunk/thump noise on turns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to reinforce the cushion hook.
TSB 22-20402022-03-22. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator non-hybrid vehicles may exhibit radio static and/or poor radio sound quality when moving. This may be more noticeable on AM radio stations. This may be caused by an electromagnetic interference concern. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to install new grounds on the rear knuckle.
SSM 505712022-03-15. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR; LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES; EQUIPMENT. Some 2018-2021 Expedition and 2020-2021 Explorer vehicles may intermittently exhibit doors unable to lock/unlock and/or difficult to open in freezing temperatures. This may be due to water entering the interior door latch lock indicator cable assembly. To resolve the condition, replace the affected latch and cable assembly per Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-14. Use the latest level service parts only.
SSM 503752021-12-27. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a condition where the navigation voice prompts are inoperative after a SYNC map update. This may be due to an incomplete installation of the SYNC map software. If possible, using the original USB that installed the update, reperform the update and verify the navigation voice prompts have returned. Multiple reboots are expected when this update is being performed. Verify the Installation Is Complete message displays in the touch screen. If the original USB is not available, go to website https://syncnavigation.com/ford/home or https://syncnavigation.com/lincoln/home to download the files once more for the affected vehicle. For further map update support, reference the FAQ section on these websites.
SSM 503612021-12-26. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit poor sound quality from the left and/or right front speaker while using Bluetooth audio. This may be due to concerns with the wiring harness or connections of connector C2383A, C202, and/or C4240B. Prior to the replacement of the affected speaker, inspect the inline connections at connectors C2383A, C202, and C4240B for damage or incorrect pin fit. If no concerns are found with the wiring harness, continue with the replacement of the affected speaker.
SSM 503462021-12-26. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2018-2021 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.
TSB 21-24112021-12-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. This article supersedes TSB 21-2342 to update the Issue, Action, and Service Procedure. 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 including but not limited to: Sirius audio not functioning properly after a key cycle with active subscription Presets not responding or indicating properly Intermittent audio echo/robotic voice heard during a Bluetooth phone call Wi-Fi connection message pop-up every key cycle Frozen unresponsive touchscreen Solid blue screen when moving forward at speeds above 16 km/h (10 mph) (2019 vehicles only) Rear parking aid camera remains on the screen at speeds below 16 km/h (10 mph) (2019 vehicles only) Inoperative infotainment applications Poor/no AppLink function Apple CarPlay not launching on connection or a black screen when connected Voice prompts that skip or have short pauses while directions are being provided
TSB 21-23422021-11-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. 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 to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software.
TSB 21-22542021-11-02. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair vehicles built on or before 30-Mar-2021 and Explorer/Aviator vehicles built on or before 09-Apr-2021 may exhibit a slow fuel fill and/or spit back condition during refueling. This may be due to the design of the fuel tank filler pipe. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the fuel tank filler pipe.
TSB 21-22942021-09-30. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:DOGS/SYNCHROS. 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 to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software.
TSB 21-22932021-09-30. Service bulletin. SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:ABS WARNING LIGHT; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator hybrid vehicles may exhibit a brake pedal pulsation or vibration when the brakes are applied. The customer may state that the anti-locking brake system (ABS) system is activating without any indicators on the instrument panel cluster (IPC). This may be due to the regenerative braking software in the ABS module. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure Steps to perform a coordinated flash on the powertrain control module (PCM) and ABS module.
SSM 501062021-09-28. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit the A/C blowing warm air with DTC P0645 present in the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) module. This may be due to spread terminal/terminal pushout in wire harness 14290 and on the corresponding pins to the body control module C (BCMC). Before replacement of the BCMC, disconnect all connectors from the BCMC and check the BCMC pins and wire terminals for damage. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-10. If spread terminals or terminal pushout is present, repair as necessary. Refer to Wiring Diagram, Cell 005 for repair procedures. Reconnect all connections to the BCMC as indicated by the procedure in the Shop manual. Test the function of the A/C to ensure that it is blowing cold air.
SSM 500822021-09-28. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit an inoperative driver switchpack (windows inop, mirror control unresponsive, etc.). DTC B1088:87 may be present in the DDM. To correct the condition perform the Driver Door Module (DDM) configuration application using the Ford diagnostic scan tool. After running the configuration application, perform a window learn routine via the ford diagnostic scan tool. The condition can also be resolved by letting the vehicle enter a deep sleep cycle. Engineering is currently investigating this concern and will be releasing a service fix. Let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule service appointments for customers once the repair becomes available. For claiming, use causal part 14B291 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 500152021-09-04. Service bulletin. VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM; VISIBILITY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles are equipped with an anti-fogging feature known as enhanced windshield anti fogging strategy (EWAFS). This feature automatically adjusts airflow in the cabin to prevent the windshield from fogging up and may be perceived by customers as irregular climate control functionality. To reduce fogging, the EWAFS functions include: the air condition (A/C) button may turn on and off automatically, recirculated air may turn off automatically in all air modes except MAX A/C, recirculated air may also turn on and off automatically in various airflow modes in order to improve heating or cooling efficiency, and in auto climate control, high humidity conditions may automatically engage A/C compressor, increase blower motor speed and/or direct more air to windshield. Continue to monitor the Workshop Manual (WSM) for EWAFS updates.
TSB 21-22632021-09-02. 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 499142021-07-02. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2021 Edge, 2016-2018 MKX, 2019-2021 Nautilus, 2018-2021 Expedition/Navigator, and 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair/Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit an inoperative power liftgate. This may be due to the rear gate trunk module (RGTM) software. To correct the condition, reprogram the RGTM using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 14B291 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 498852021-07-02. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2019-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an intermittent audio echo/robotic voice heard during a bluetooth phone call by the person that is not in the vehicle. Using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto instead of Bluetooth can help alleviate the concern. Also turning on, then off, the privacy setting in the SYNC touchscreen can temporarily alleviate the concern. Engineering is currently investigating this concern and will be releasing a service fix in early July 2021. Let the customer know they can continue to drive the vehicle and schedule service appointments for customers once the repair becomes available. Monitor OASIS for updates.

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