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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 521522024-01-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator and/or 4WD Fault Service Required message with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) C00A6:71, C00A6:74, C00A6:99, C00A7:11, C00A7:13, C00A8:11, and/or C00A8:13 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.
TSB 23-23072023-11-02. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE. 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, 2021 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. This may be due to the SYNC Software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the SYNC module (APIM) software.
SSM 519022023-10-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Aviator/Explorer Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a concern where the EV power flow does not display in the center display screen. This may be due to the SYNC module (APIM) software. Download and run the APIM-SYNC Module (APIM) Standard Programming application using the latest software level of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). After programming the APIM to the latest level, the EV power flow screen may intermittently not function under certain conditions. No further repair procedure is recommended as this function is not critical to the operation of the hybrid powertrain system. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 518382023-09-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. In various 2017-2023 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. 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.
SSM 518752023-09-02. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. On 2020-2023 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, customers may desire modifications that require access to the drivers door ajar circuit. In some cases customers may experience an ajar light on when the drivers door is fully closed. When using pin 13 on the factory 14-way connector to access the drivers 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 drivers door latch / door ajar light will remain on until it is compliant with police modifiers bulletin P-032, which can be found on the Police body builders site (https://fordbbas.com/publications).
SSM 518452023-08-14. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EXTERIOR LIGHTING. Some 2020-2023 Explorer vehicles may exhibit a condition of intermittent headlamp operation while the vehicle is OFF and have diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B1533 stored in the body control module (BCM). This may be due to the internal logic within the headlamp switch. To correct this condition, replace the headlamp switch (service base PN: 11654). Refer Workshop Manual, Section 417-01.
TSB 23-21742023-08-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2021 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) built on or before 30-Aug-2021 may exhibit an illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) C00A6 and/or C0631. This may be due to the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the front axle disconnect actuator/intermediate shaft with a revised intermediate shaft.
SSM 517922023-07-18. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit poor speaker sound quality and/or tick-tock noise while activating turn signals and streaming audio over Bluetooth. Customers may describe static heard during a Bluetooth phone call, or a door speaker buzz or tick noise with the pulse of the turn signal. This may be due to concerns with the 14401/14A005 wiring harnesses or connector damage. Prior to the replacement of the affected speaker, inspect for incorrect pin fit/crimp, bent pins, broken wire strands, or other damage at inline connectors C202, C2383A, and/or C4240B. These circuits join the SYNC module (APIM) and audio front control module (ACM) components. If wiring/connector concerns are found, repair per Wiring Diagram Cell 5.
TSB 23-22082023-07-18. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2020-2023 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 517252023-06-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Ford and Lincoln SYNC3 equipped vehicles may experience an inaccurate notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode message is expected if the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module (BCM) 12 volt battery state of charge (SoC) drops below 50%. If the vehicle is going into deep sleep outside these conditions, this may be due to the telematics control unit (TCU) software. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the TCU to the latest software. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 517012023-06-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2023 Aviator/Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.0L hybrid engine may exhibit illuminated powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator and stop safely now warning. Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0AA6:00 may be stored in the battery energy control module (BECM). Inspect the right side frame rail area near the bank 1 charge air cooler (CAC) intake pipe clamp for chafing the orange high voltage harness. If the harness is damaged, de-energize high voltage system per Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-03A. Reposition the clamp and replace the high voltage harness (14290). If the harness is not damaged continue P0AA6 diagnostics in WSM, Section 414-03A, Pinpoint Test T. For a P0AA6 diagnostic aid video, refer to Professional Technician System (PTS) > Home > Technical Assistance > Technical Support Videos > enter P0AA6 in search box and click video returned.
SSM 516532023-05-31. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020-2023 Escape/Explorer, 2021-2023 F-150 and 2022-2023 Maverick vehicles equipped with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain may exhibit a cable connection error screen from the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue Charger. The xRC-3363 will prompt the Technician to verify the low voltage connections, when no actual fault is present. The technician will need to delete the WiFi connection from the xRC-3365 so it will not automatically reconnect and adjust the date. Next go to Settings>Shop Information>Date/Time Settings and change the date prior to May 1, 2023 and stay off the internet so it will not auto correct itself. Press and hold the power button until the tool turns off. Then turn the xRC-3365 back on and attempt the rescue charge.
SSM 516502023-05-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a charging system warning in the message center and/or illuminated battery lamp with DTC B11D9 present in the body control module (BCM). Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), 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, do not replace a complete wire harness to obtain this fuse. The 125 amp fuse (service part number JU5Z-14526-A) is now available separately for service. If the 125 amp fuse is ok, check C1168 connector / SBF08 circuit located underbody behind the left front wheel for wiring or connector issues. For additional C1168 location images, view WSM 414-01 > Removal and Installation > Auxiliary Battery Cable. Repair as necessary per Wiring Diagram (WD) Cell 5 > Connector Repair Procedures.
SSM 516122023-05-16. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STEERING. There is a parts and labor time error for Explorer/Aviator 3.0L EcoBoost and Aviator 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Ford is in the process of updating TSB 23-2114. Explorer or Aviator with 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L PHEV engine require new sub frame bolts and a steering shaft pinch bolt. Aviator will also require suspension nuts and bolts missing from the TSB that are related to halfshaft removal and installation. To complete the repair, follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 205-03 > Front Axle Disconnect Actuator (use the 2020 WSM for 2021 Aviator as the procedure for 2021 is currently being updated). Complete the wiring modification per TSB 23-2114. For Explorer 3.0L EcoBoost vehicles, claim operation 232114E 7.2 hours. For Aviator 3.0L EcoBoost and 3.0L PHEV vehicles, claim operation 232114F 7.8 hours. Refer to this article on the repair order.
SSM 515152023-04-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator with start/stop push button ignition switch may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B108A:01 (general electrical failure), B108A:24 (signal stuck high), and/or B108A:9E (stuck on). The ignition mode light emitting diode (LED) indicator may also flash quickly. This condition may be caused by loose wiring terminal crimps on connector C2195 at the push button ignition switch. Examine Pin 1 (CPK34/Gn) first, since it is the only pin with the smallest (26 gauge) wire. To correct this condition, repair terminal crimps per Wiring Diagram (WD) Cell 5. If no wiring terminal faults are found, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 211-05 for normal diagnostics. The push button ignition switch pinpoint tests in the WSM have been updated.
SSM 513802023-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator vehicles may exhibit the A/C blowing warm air with DTCs P0645, P2CFC, and/or P2CFD 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 WSM. Test the function of the A/C to verify that it is blowing cold air.
SSM 513062023-02-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2023 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, 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, damaged pins/terminals, 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 512472023-01-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with multiple diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). 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 on driver's side lower frame area underneath the brake lines that route near the electric brake booster (EBB). 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. Refer to Wiring Diagram (WD) Cell 22-12 to view the 3 voltage reference (VREF) wires at C1198 on the 2.3L engine.
SSM 511322022-10-19. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING. Some 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with multiple diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). 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.
22P162022-10-05. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Certain 2020 - 2022 Model Year Aviator PHEV and Explorer PHEV Vehicles Reprogram Powertrain Control Module In all of the affected vehicles, if the vehicle is charging via the charging cable and the customer requests a remote start, disconnects the charging cable, and then drives the vehicle, the engine may not start when needed and the vehicle will be limited to high voltage battery power. DTC P1A0C will set and a Stop Safely Now message will be displayed when the high voltage battery becomes depleted.
TSB 22-23422022-09-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; POWER TRAIN. Some 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a hybrid powertrain may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2D40. This may be due to the chiller not interpreting the correct cooling value of the high voltage battery chiller. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to diagnose the cause of the incorrect value.
SSM 509752022-08-02. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. This occurs when the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module (BCM) 12 volt battery state of charge (SOC) drops below 50%. A warning may also set if the telematic control unit (TCU) has received an over the air update. The TCU powers down all communication when in this mode and app features are disabled. Manually start the vehicle to wake if from mode. More information is located in the app under: Account > Help > search 'Deep Sleep' in the entry box. If the condition remains, check the BCM 12v SOC. If the SOC does not change after charging the battery or after BMS reset is performed, continue with normal battery and/or BMS sensor diagnostics.
SSM 508732022-06-30. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2017-2022 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 508412022-06-17. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2018-2022 F-150, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Aviator and Explorer vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0627, 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, damaged pins/terminals, 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.
TSB 22-22252022-06-13. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. 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, 2021 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Explorer/Aviator vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. This may be due to the SYNC Software. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software.

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