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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By component
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Only bulletins with component: Electrical system are shown. Show all
| SSM 50804 | 2022-06-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2023 Ford or Lincoln vehicles with modems activated through FordPass or LincolnWay may experience 12 volt battery drain symptoms when the customer uses non-Ford/Lincoln phone applications as an alternate channel to access vehicle commands such as door lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle location, etc. The battery drain may be caused by excessive calls for data through the vehicle network keeping it in an activated state. Recommend that the customer uninstall the app to ensure this is not contributing to battery symptoms experienced. Advise the customer that unaffiliated third-party app developers do not work directly with Ford to adhere to security, vehicle communication, and privacy requirements. |
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| SSM 50800 | 2022-05-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Aviator/Explorer Hybrid vehicles may experience a low battery warning message displayed in the message center with diagnostic trouble code B11D9 present in the body control module (BCM). Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 414-01, Pinpoint Test C for diagnosis and repair. If the 125 amp fuse on the 14300 wire harness at the auxiliary battery is open, it is not necessary to replace a complete wire harness to obtain this fuse. Service part number JU5Z-14526-A is now available separately for service. |
| TSB 22-2177 | 2022-05-24. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator Hybrid vehicles built on or before 11-Apr-2022 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 battery energy control module (BECM). To correct the condition follow the Service Procedure to reprogram the BECM, powertrain control module (PCM), and other modules in a coordinated flash. |
| TSB 22-2190 | 2022-05-16. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; AIR BAGS:SRS MALFUNCTION WARNING LAMP/LIGHT. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator and 2021-2022 Bronco vehicles may exhibit an illuminated airbag warning indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1404:13 and/or B1407:13. This may be due to contamination and relative movement in the connection between the wiring harness and the side airbag. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the affected connector with a service pigtail and the affected side airbag. |
| SSM 50739 | 2022-05-14. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2021 Escape vehicles and 2021 F-150/Mustang Mach-E/Expedition/Explorer vehicles built on or before 22-Nov-2021 may exhibit a concern of the audio inoperative, no sound from audio speakers, chimes default to coming through the Instrument cluster, no communication with audio control module (ACM) or digital signal processor (DSP) module, and/or DTC U1084, U0237 and/or U0238. This may be due to the software in the DSP. To correct this condition, perform a hard reset of the DSP by disconnecting the 12-volt battery. Reprogram the DSP module using the latest version of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 18B849 and any applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 50705 | 2022-04-20. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL. Some 2021 Explorer vehicles may exhibit inoperative side marker turn signals. This may be due to incorrect data in the driver door module (DDM). To correct the condition, run the DDM and passenger door module (PDM) Configuration Application using the latest level of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). For claiming, use causal part 14B291 and applicable labor times found in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 50661 | 2022-04-13. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2022 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P025A, P025B, P00C6, P008A and/or 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, 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator- G407) and confirm FPCM connector (F-150- C4336, Expedition/Navigator- C433, Transit- C433, 2018-2019 Explorer C3239, 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator- C4033) is fully seated prior to performing PC/ED diagnostics or replacing any components. |
| SSM 50659 | 2022-04-13. 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 50622 | 2022-03-30. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL. Some 2020 - 2022 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. |
| SSM 50588 | 2022-03-22. 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. |
| SSM 50504 | 2022-02-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) may exhibit an illuminated stability-traction control and/or powertrain malfunction warning indicators with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C00A8:11, C00A8:13, C00A6:71, C00A6:74, and C00A6:99 present in the AWD module. This may be due to a damaged wiring harness rubbing against the underbody heat shield where it routes over and into the transfer case actuator motor. Inspect the wire harness for damage and repair as necessary following the procedures in the Wiring Diagram Manual. If no damage is found, continue with normal diagnostics. |
| SSM 50458 | 2022-02-16. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY; UNKNOWN OR OTHER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:SWITCHES/KNOBS/BUTTONS. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator/Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, and 2022 Maverick vehicles may exhibit an inoperative driver door window control switch (windows inoperative, mirror control unresponsive, etc.). Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1088:87 may be present in the driver door module (DDM). This may be due to the software in the DDM. To correct the condition, reprogram the DDM with the latest software level of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). After reprogramming the DDM, run the DDM configuration application and perform a window learn routine via FDRS. For claiming, use causal part 14B291 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. |
| SSM 50388 | 2022-02-04. Service bulletin. LANE DEPARTURE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA; FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY. Some 2020-2022 F-Super Duty/Explorer/Aviator and 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a Front Camera Fault, Lane Keeping Fault, and/or Collison Warning Not Available message with various diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) stored in the image processing module A (IPMA). If programming fails or Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) states a file failed to flash after replacing the IPMA or reprogramming IPMA software, test the battery using any approved Rotunda tool including the GR-190, GRX-3590, and DCA-8000. Fully recharge or replace the battery according to results of the tool. Set the battery charger to maintain battery voltage between 12.6 and 13.6 volts during the entire programming procedure. The IPMA programming procedure may take several hours to complete due to the size of the software files required. |
| SSM 50381 | 2022-02-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Police Interceptor Utility hybrid vehicles may exhibit multiple warning messages, various drivability concerns and/or an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with DTC P061B. This may be due to incorrectly installed or usage of additional police equipment with the vehicle not running. Refer to the Police Interceptor Utility and Hybrid Utility Modifiers Guide available on the Professional Technician System (PTS) website Service Tips tab for guidelines. Equipment should only use the rear power access point provided and not the 12V cranking/auxiliary batteries. 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. The Police Engine Idle feature can be used, if equipped, to allow the vehicle to securely remain idling and power equipment. Refer to the Owner Manual. |
| SSM 50375 | 2021-12-27. 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 50361 | 2021-12-26. 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 50354 | 2021-12-26. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Police Interceptor Utility hybrid vehicles may exhibit multiple warning messages, various drivability concerns and/or an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with DTC P061B. This may be due to incorrectly installed or usage of additional police equipment with the vehicle not running. Refer to the Police Interceptor Utility and Hybrid Utility Modifiers Guide available on the Professional Technician System (PTS) website Service Tips tab for guidelines. Equipment should only use the rear power access point provided and not the 12V cranking/auxiliary batteries. 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 auxiliary police equipment needs to be powered for an extended time after the ignition is turned off, then a separate isolated power source should be used. |
| SSM 50348 | 2021-12-26. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with multiple diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). These DTCs may include P04F0, P008A, P0451, P0455, P0456, P0496 and/or P018C. This may be due to the wiring harness connection at connector C1198. Prior to replacement of any components, inspect the connector and wiring harness for any damage or pin fit concerns. If any damage or pin fit concerns are found, repair the connector or harness as necessary. If no damage or pin fit concerns are found, refer to normal diagnostics. |
| SSM 50252 | 2021-12-07. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. On 2020-2021 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, customers may desire modifications that require access to the driver's door ajar circuit. In some cases customers may experience an 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://fordbbas.com/publications). |
| TSB 21-2411 | 2021-12-01. 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 21-2342 | 2021-11-02. 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 21-2297 | 2021-09-30. Service bulletin. AIR BAGS:SENSOR:SIDE IMPACT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator and 2021 Bronco vehicles may exhibit an illuminated airbag warning indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1404:13 and/or B1407:13. This may be due to contamination and relative movement in the connection between the wiring harness and the side airbag. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to replace the affected connector with a service pigtail and the affected side airbag. |
| TSB 21-2293 | 2021-09-30. 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 50151 | 2021-09-28. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator Hybrids, 2021 Corsair Hybrid, 2021 F-150 PowerBoost, and 2021 Mustang Mach-E vehicles may exhibit a no-start with a Stop Safely Now warning message in the instrument panel cluster (IPC). The vehicle may have one or more of the following DTCs P0A23, P0A6F, P0A72, P0A75, P0A71, P0A74, P0A77, P0DFA, P06B1, P0A47, P1A0E set by the secondary on-board diagnostic module C (SOBDMC) or secondary on-board diagnostic module B (SOBDMB). This may be due to a drop in the 12-volt circuit. These DTCs will often occur at vehicle key-on and may be difficult to reproduce. Before replacement of the SOBDMC or SOBDMB, diagnose any low voltage DTCs (P0562, U3003) in other modules in the 12V system. If low voltage (less than 10V) is observed in these DTCs snapshot, diagnose the 12v system first. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 418-00. |
| SSM 50106 | 2021-09-28. 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. |
The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.