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Service bulletins for the 2021 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.

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

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Only bulletins with component: Electrical system are shown. Show all

Bulletins, newest first
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 500452021-09-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2021 Ford/Lincoln vehicles equipped with a wireless charging pad may exhibit an inoperative charging pad, slow charging, a notification that the phone has been mispositioned on the charging pad and/or the phone charging icon in the center screen is not showing. This may be due to the customer's phone if they are using an iPhone 12. Vehicles equipped with a wireless charging pad are designed to charge best with phones that follow the Qi standard. The iPhone 12 hardware currently does not follow the Qi standard for wireless charging. This may make it difficult for Ford and Lincoln vehicles to wirelessly charge this specific phone. The phone can still be charged using the USB cable if the vehicle experiences the above symptoms. If the customer is using an iPhone 12, verify the wireless charging pad works with a Qi certified phone prior to any part replacements.
SSM 500392021-09-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2021 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode. It is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure exactly allowing time for the SYNC system to complete its tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
TSB 21-22762021-09-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit an AutoHold System Fault message displayed in the IPC message center on vehicle start-up with no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This may be due to the software in the ABS module. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to reprogram the powertrain control module (PCM) and/or ABS module using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool.
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 499802021-08-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ADAS:DRIVER MONITORING:CAMERA/SENSOR. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator/Corsair vehicles may exhibit an intermittent blue screen on the center infotainment display for one or more cameras when the 360 degree camera view is activated. To correct the condition, reprogram the image processing module B (IPMB) using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. Once complete, perform the 360 degree camera alignment procedure. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 413-13. For claiming, use causal part 19H405 and applicable labor operations in the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
21U042021-08-02. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. In some of the effected vehicles the active noise cancelation (ANC) and electronic sound enhancement (ESE) features were not activated in the audio control module (ACM). This can cause undesirable powertrain sounds inside the vehicle, and less than optimal speaker sound from ST products, resulting in customer dissatisfaction.
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 498912021-07-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; SEATS. Some 2021 Explorer Limited vehicles built on or before 10-Dec-2020 may exhibit an inoperative second row seat power fold function. This may be due to the configuration of the body control module c (BCMC) and the power fold seat module (SCMJ). To correct the condition, reconfigure the BCMC using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. Once the BCMC is reconfigured, perform the SCMJ reconfiguration routine using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 14F042 and applicable service labor times found in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
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 497952021-06-01. 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.
SSM 496902021-03-31. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. For 2018-2021 EcoSport/Expedition/Navigator, 2019-2021 Ranger/Transit Connect, 2020-2021 Escape/Explorer/SuperDuty/Transit/Aviator/Corsair, 2021 Bronco Sport/F-150/Mustang/Mach-E the Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnostics may direct to replace a module on vehicles that use Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). First, an FDRS session must be created on the vehicle prior to removing the faulted module. Once the session is started, run the Programmable Module Installation and replace the module only when instructed by FDRS. Installing a new module prior to starting a scan tool session may result in incomplete module configuration with DTCs U2100, U2101 and/or U2200. Once a session has been started, continue to follow normal WSM procedures to repair the vehicle.
SSM 496852021-03-31. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Aviator and Explorer vehicles built on and before 24-Feb-2021 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.
SSM 496182021-03-03. 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 495802021-03-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 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.
TSB 21-20302021-03-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; SERVICE BRAKES. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on or before 24-Dec-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.
21B172021-03-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. In all of the affected vehicles, the installed high-output alternator and powertrain control module (PCM) calibration were not aligned. A mismatch between the alternator and PCM calibration could cause idle control issues such as engine speed fluctuations, which may cause customer dissatisfaction.
SSM 494272021-02-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2019-2020 Edge/Nautilus/Ranger, 2020 Escape and 2020-2021 Corsair/Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.0L/2.3L EcoBoost may exhibit a lack of power with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P02AB, P0243, P0299, P1464, P25B3, P25B4, P2AB7, P2AB8 and/or P2AB9. This may be due to a missing wastegate actuator e-clip. A lower level service component has been released, K2GZ-9G488-B for Edge/Nautilus/Escape/Corsair vehicles and LB5Z-9G488-B for Explorer/Ranger vehicles, for service to replace the actuator, actuator rod and both e-clips. Turbocharger replacement is not necessary for missing wastegate actuator e-clips.
SSM 494382021-02-04. Service bulletin. SEATS; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with 3rd row power seats may exhibit inoperative 3rd row power seat folding with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B1231:54 and/or B1232:54 stored in the power fold seat module (SCMJ). This may be due to the software in the SCMJ. To correct the condition, connect a battery charger and reprogram the SCMJ using the latest software level of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. Then open the liftgate, and perform the SCMJ - Power Fold Seat Module (SCMJ) Learn Seat Procedure. For claiming, use causal part 14F042 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
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.
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.
SSM 493932021-01-05. Service bulletin. ENGINE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2021 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with a 6.2L or 7.3L engine and Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 3.3L engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0106 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) while in transport mode, especially when operated in higher altitudes. To correct the condition, clear the DTCs and deactivate transport mode. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-10 > General Procedures. Before starting the engine in the procedure, cycle the ignition to OFF, cycle the ignition to ON, wait ten seconds, cycle the ignition to OFF, wait ten seconds, then start the engine. If the condition remains, refer to the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) Manual for diagnostics.
SSM 493882021-01-05. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL; POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2021 F-150/Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles without a diesel engine and/or without a 10R80 MHT transmission have a new PCM-Transmission Accelerated Main Control Break In routine added to the Diagnosis and Testing Section of the WSM. This new routine uses the Ford diagnostic scan tool to cycle the shift solenoids and clutch control valves to free them from contamination that may be sticking the valves. Refer to WSM, Section 307-01.
SSM 493862021-01-05. Service bulletin. STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may have diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C0052, C0053, C0054 and/or C0055 stored in the TRM if the police steering wheel output circuits are not connected to any accessories. If these DTCs are detected during diagnosis of unrelated concerns, they should be ignored.

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