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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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By component

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Bulletins, newest first
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.
SSM 493292020-12-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN; ENGINE. Some 2020-2021 Aviator and Explorer vehicles may experience an intermittent no crank, inoperative remote start, and/or an illuminated wrench light with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P07E4, B135C and/or U0103. This may be due to a loose ground G210 and/or G214. Check grounds G210 and G214, refer to the Wiring Diagram for location information. If the concern persists, or the grounds are found to be secure, refer to the Workshop Manual and applicable sections of the Powertrain Controls/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) Manual for normal diagnostics.
TSB 20-23632020-11-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2019 MKZ, 2019-2020 EcoSport/Mustang/Continental/Fusion/F-150/Transit Connect/Ranger/Edge/Nautilus and 2020 Escape/Corsair/Aviator/Explorer/Expedition/Navigator/F-Super Duty vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure.
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 492182020-11-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:GEARS; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020 Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) U0100, U0155, P166B, P0929, and/or P0919. The vehicle may also exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator lamp. This may be due to the software in the gear shift module (GSM). To correct the condition, reprogram the GSM using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 7P155 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
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 492102020-10-06. 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 492042020-10-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit various electrical concerns due to an open 3 or 4 post fuse array on the high current battery junction box (BJB). Service part LU5Z-14526-ALD has been released for the 3 post fuse array and LU5Z-14526-ANC has been released for the 4 post fuse array. It is no longer necessary to order the complete wiring harness to obtain these parts.
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 491972020-10-06. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a hybrid engine and built on or before 04-Aug-2020 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or engine overheating fault message with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0217 and/or P06EF stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to an assembly pin left in the accessory drive belt tensioner during the production process. To correct the condition, remove any assembly pins from the accessory drive belt tensioner. If no pins are found, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-06 or Section 303-03 for further diagnostics.
SSM 491962020-10-06. Service bulletin. SEATS. Some 2020 Explorer vehicles may exhibit loose fitting side trim panels on the front row lower seat cushions and upper seat backs. This may cause the seat cover to appear to be cut improperly. The seat cover should not be replaced for this concern. Adjust the seat side trim panels for proper fit.
SSM 491722020-10-06. Service bulletin. STEERING. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on 07-Nov-2019 and through 04-Aug-2020 may exhibit a lack of power steering assist at initial engine start-up with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C102D stored in the power steering control module (PCSM). This may be due to the software in the PCSM. During normal diagnostics in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02, if pinpoint test (PPT) step AI5 is answered YES, reprogram the PCSM with the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. If DTC C102D returns, continue with normal diagnostics. For claiming, use causal part 3504 and applicable labor operations in Sections 03 and 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 491892020-10-06. Service bulletin. LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES. Some 2020 Police Interceptor vehicles built on or before 24-Jul-2020 may exhibit a front door lock cylinder that is difficult to turn with the key. This may be caused by the lock pawl in the front door latch. To correct the condition, revised front door latches LB5Z-78219A65-F (left) and LB5Z-78219A64-F (right) have been released for service. Use Rotunda key part number 164-R0479 in conjunction with the updated front door latches.
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.
SSM 491622020-10-06. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:FUEL GAUGE:FUEL LEVEL FLOAT/SENSOR/SENDING UNIT. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may display a distance to empty value in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) that does not correctly represent the actual fuel level of the vehicle. This may be due to excessive idling and/or a learned value in the powertrain control module (PCM) that is incorrect. To correct the condition, perform the PCM - Reset the Keep Alive Memory (KAM) application in the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use Causal Part 12A650 and applicable labor times from Section 10 in the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
TSB 20-23222020-10-02. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL. Some 2020 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit inoperative turn signal lamps after replacement of the light emitting diode (LED) control module. This may be due to a lack of initialization caused by incomplete wiring circuits. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to splice the needed circuits into the wiring harness of the affected side of the vehicle.
20B342020-10-01. Service bulletin. 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.
20B21-S12020-10-01. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. Certain 2020 Model Year Transit vehicles with 3.5L engines and F-150 / Police Interceptor Utility vehicles with 3.3L engines - Cylinder Head Replacement
TSB 20-23012020-10-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM. Some 2019 MKZ, 2019-2020 Mustang/Continental/Fusion/F-150/Transit Connect/ Ranger/Edge/Nautilus and 2020 Escape/Corsair/Aviator/Explorer/Expedition/ Navigator/F-Super Duty vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure.
TSB 20-23052020-10-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 20-2107 to update the Part List. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator vehicles built on or before 19-May-2020 and equipped with a 10R60 automatic transmission may exhibit a harsh 7-6 gear downshift. This may be caused by the A clutch piston return spring snap ring becoming dislodged. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to replace the front support and A clutch assemblies.
TSB 20-23002020-10-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2020 Police Interceptor vehicles equipped with a 3.3L Duratec engine may exhibit a reduction in expected top vehicle speed and/or exhibit vehicle speed limited to 35 km/h (19 MPH) in REVERSE with no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to the software in the PCM. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to reprogram the PCM.
TSB 20-22992020-10-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2020 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P062C or P179D stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) and a possible lack of power. This may be due to the software in the PCM. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to reprogram the PCM.

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