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.
By type
By component
By trouble code
By topic
| SSM 54592 | 2026-02-27. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. For 20172026 vehicles equipped with a 10R transmission, a revision to the Road Testing Vehicle procedure has been made in the WSM, located in Section 307-01 > Diagnosis and Testing. This updated procedure improves the diagnosis of customer reported transmission concerns and aids in locating the proper root cause. During diagnosis and testing, details regarding whether the condition is more prevalent when the vehicle is hot or cold, throttle percentage at the time of occurrence, vehicle speed, the specific shift involved, and whether the issue occurs during transmission engagements (N>R, N>D, R>D, or D>R) should be noted. Engineering requests including these detailed operating conditions that will significantly assist with root cause analysis. Diagnosis, testing, and repair should use established labor times outside this article. |
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| SSM 54601 | 2026-02-27. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STRUCTURE:BODY; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how to retrieve the master code. This guide is located under the Workshop Manual tab > Accessories > Installation > Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide > PPT C > Step C2.<br /><br /> Note: The only available keypad for some vehicles from the assembly plant is the accessory wireless keyless entry keypad. The integrated wired keypad cannot be installed on vehicles not equipped from the factory with a wired keyless entry k |
| TSB 26-2046 | 2026-02-17. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2611. Reason For Update: Change the part number for the transmission fluid heat exchanger bolt (Expedition/Navigator) as well as change the claim/package quantities for HL3Z-7B442-F and HL3Z-7B164-C. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. |
| SSM 54516 | 2026-01-27. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY. 2020-2026 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may require level III ballistic panels to be replaced due to broken mounting tabs. Individual level III ballistic panel mounting tab service parts are now available: right-hand (78201B68) and left-hand (78201B69). Replacement of the level III ballistic panel assembly is not required for this condition. Level IV ballistic panels do not have removable mounting tabs and still require complete panel replacement. Level III vs level IV ballistic panels can be identified by a large roman numeral label on the panel or by the vehicle window sticker if equipped. |
| TSB 25-2614 | 2026-01-21. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit a cupholder base that is damaged or broken. This may be due to the heat stake clips detaching from the cup holder assembly. |
| TSB 25-2568 | 2026-01-13. Service bulletin. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL; SUSPENSION; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. This article supersedes TSB 25-2373 to update a print error on publication. Some vehicles listed in the model statement above may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C00A6 and/or C0631. This may be due to the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft. |
| TSB 25-2611 | 2026-01-06. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2474 for 3 Part List corrections. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary to confirm proper function. Add a new line to the repair order to document any additional repairs |
| 25L02 | 2026-01-05. Other. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Special Field Action 25L02 Certain 2017-2024 Model Year California Emissions-Certified Vehicles Transmission Control Assembly Reimbursement |
| SSM 54425 | 2025-12-10. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM. Some 2020-2026 Police Interceptor Utility hybrid vehicles may exhibit multiple warning messages, various drivability concerns and/or an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P061B stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to the incorrect installation of additional police equipment. Equipment should only use the provided rear power access point and must not use the 12V cranking or 12V auxiliary batteries for power. The vehicle will go to sleep after the ignition key is removed and is not designed to power equipment when the vehicle is not running. If equipped, the Police Engine Idle feature can be used to allow the vehicle to securely remain idling and to power equipment. Refer to the Owners Manual.<br /><br /> If it is determined additional equipment has not been added to the 12V cranking or 12V auxiliary batteries, continue with normal Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnostics, Section 303-04C Engine > Fuel Charging and Controls > Diagnosis and Testing > Pinpoint Test QE.<br /><br /> For general upfitter installation guidelines, refer to:<br /> |
| SSM 54366 | 2025-11-19. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. Pinpoint test HK in the Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) or in Section 303-14 of the Workshop Manual (WSM) has been updated to address this concern. |
| SSM 54354 | 2025-11-12. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. On 2020-2026 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, customers may desire modifications that require access to the driver's door ajar circuit. The vehicle may exhibit a door ajar light on when the driver's door is fully closed. When using pin 13 on the factory 14-way connector to access the driver's door ajar circuit, a 70 mA maximum coil current relay with an integrated clamping diode is required to protect against damage to the door latch. Failure to install this correctly will result in repeat warnings that the driver's door latch/door ajar light will remain on until it is compliant with police modifier's bulletin P-032, which can be found on the Police body builder's site (https://www.fordpro.com/en-us/upfit/publications/). |
| TSB 25-2474 | 2025-11-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2429 for a labor operation correction. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary to confirm proper function. Add a new line to the repair order to document any additional rep |
| SSM 54313 | 2025-10-28. Service bulletin. LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2025 various Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may experience an inoperative blind spot monitoring with a "Blind Spot System Fault" message displayed in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). This may also be accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B118C:11 and/or B118C:15 stored in the driver door module (DDM), and/or B118D:11 and/or B118D:15 stored in the passenger door module (PDM). This may be due to the wiring connector from the mirror to the BLIS module. If diagnostics lead to an internal mirror wiring harness fault, a new lower level BLIS light pigtail is now released for service. It is not necessary to replace the exterior mirror assembly. Use part number SC3Z-14A411-B to resolve the concern. |
| SSM 54262 | 2025-10-07. Service bulletin. ENGINE. Some 2019-2020 Edge/Nautilus vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost, 2020 Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) engine, 2020 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost, and 2020 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a ticking/tapping or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine. This noise may occur on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more that may last for 2-5 seconds. This may be due to an internal component of the variable cam timing (VCT) unit. If diagnostics lead to the VCTs as the source of the noise, refer to the 2024 F-150 Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Pinpoint Test F. Pinpoint test F has been updated to include additional steps along with a video on how to identify the single affected VCT unit that requires replacement. |
| 25P28 | 2025-10-03. Other. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Certain Model Year Multiple Vehicles Ford Pass/Lincoln Way Connectivity Concerns |
| Customer Script-Expl Hood | 2025-09-29. Other. STRUCTURE:BODY. 2020-2025 MY Explorer hood- customer script |
| TSB 25-2447 | 2025-09-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 22-2177 to update labor times from M-time to AP-time and add a limit. Some of the vehicles listed in the model statement above may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with only diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P1A0C stored in the PCM. This may be due to the software in the powertrain control module (PCM). |
| TSB 25-2429 | 2025-09-18. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2300 to update the production fix date. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary to confirm proper function. Add a new line to the repair order to document any additional re |
| TSB 25-2373 | 2025-09-03. Service bulletin. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL; POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 23-2174 to update the Service Procedure, Part List and adding an additional labor operation. Some vehicles listed in the model statement above may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C00A6 and/or C0631. This may be due to the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft. |
| TSB 25-2302 | 2025-08-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 24-2252 to update the Title, Action Statement, Service Procedure and Part List. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: Harsh engagement Delayed engagement Harsh shift Delayed shift Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)s P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect and replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary as needed to ensure proper function. Add a new line to the repair order to docum |
| TSB 25-2300 | 2025-08-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. This bulletin supersedes TSB 25-2131 to add reprogram for later level software, new Steps 1-4 in Service Procedure. Updated Part List with 3 superseded part numbers. Some of the vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit at least one of the following conditions: * Harsh engagement * Delayed engagement * Harsh shift * Delayed shift * Illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0761, P0762, P0766, P0767, P0771, P0772, P2700, P2701, P2702, P2703, P2704, P2705, P2707, P2708, P0729, P0731, P0732, P0733, P0734, P0735, P0736, P076F, P07D9, P07F6 and/or P07F7 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to PCM software and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve causing hydraulic circuit leaks. NOTE: If internal transmission service is required to address a concern detected with the CDF clutch cylinder following this article, technicians should carefully inspect, replace other transmission components and flush transmission fluid cooler only as necessary |
| SSM 54116 | 2025-08-12. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Various 2019-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a partially or fully black center display screen at start-up using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This does not affect rear camera operation. This may be due to interference from the phone being connected into the media hub using a universal serial bus (USB) cable during SYNC system boot up. To correct his condition, advise the customer to disconnect the USB cable from the phone. If the center display screen displays normally, reconnect the phone. If the concern persists, disconnect the phone from the USB cable, cycle the ignition off and open the driver's door so the interior lights come on. Close the door, start the vehicle and wait for the center display screen to boot up past the start-up animation and display the home screen, then reconnect the phone using the USB cable. If the concern persists after this procedure, follow normal Workshop Manual diagnostics for a blank screen concern. |
| 24N10 S1 | 2025-08-01. Other. ENGINE. Certain 2020-2022 Model Year Explorer Police Interceptor Utility (PIU) Vehicles Engine Block Breaches This program provides a no-cost, one-time repair (if needed) to the engine long-block for 10 years of service or 150,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first. |
| SSM 54083 | 2025-07-30. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2023 Explorer, 2022-2023 F-150, and 2023-2024 Expedition/Navigator vehicles equipped with a 2.3L/3.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P25B3, P25B4, P25B5, P25B6, P2ABA, P2ABB, P2ABC, P2AB7, P2AB8, and/or P2AB9 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to a concern with the turbocharger wastegate. To correct the condition, follow the applicable diagnostic pinpoint tests (PPT) steps found in Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-04 and repair as necessary. |
| SSM 53982 | 2025-07-02. Service bulletin. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator, 2020-2025 Police Interceptor Utility, 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles equipped with a hybrid powertrain may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2450:00 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to an evaporative emission system concern or may also be caused by the customer overfilling the fuel tank. If this condition occurs, perform normal diagnosis per Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 303-13 and repair as necessary. Inform the customer that the condition may have been caused by overfilling of the fuel tank and to not top-off the fuel tank when the fuel pump nozzle automatically shuts off for the first time. Refer the customer to the Fuel and Refueling section of their Owner Manual for additional information. |
The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.