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Service bulletins for the 2023 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.

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

By type

By component

By trouble code

Bulletins, newest first
SSM 527742024-08-16. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2020-2024 Escape/Explorer, 2021-2024 F-150, 2022-2024 Maverick and 2024 Nautilus 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. This may be due to the software level of the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue Charger.
SSM 527732024-08-16. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. 2023-2024 F-150/Escape/Explorer/Maverick and 2024 Nautilus vehicles equipped with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) powertrain may exhibit diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0A7D and/or P0DE6 and the vehicle identification number (VIN) is not recognized by the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue Charger. This may be due to the software level of the Midtronics xRC-3363 High Voltage Battery Rescue Charger.
24B472024-08-07. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Certain 2018 - 2024 Model Year Various Vehicles Update SYNC Software In all the affected vehicles, due to an error in the SYNC software, you may experience SYNC system instability concerns and/or a failure to preserve certain settings across ignition cycles. This may result in a black infotainment screen that does not affect rear view camera, incorrect language setting, erased or unsaved radio presets, and potential inability to perform software updates.
SSM 527222024-08-06. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2019-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC3 may experience various FordPass/LincolnWay connectivity concerns including but not limited to: missing activation prompt (pop-up) on the vehicle's center display screen when attempting to activate vehicle through FordPass/LincolnWay, incorrect location/global positioning system (GPS) reported through FordPass/LincolnWay, problems with remote commands being performed through FordPass/LincolnWay, incorrect data/information reported on FordPass/LincolnWay. These symptoms will be accompanied by diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B156D:89 in the TCU. This may be due the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software
SSM 527042024-08-05. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2019-2024 vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a programming Error - "INSTL_ERR12" while programming APIM using the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) or experience a frozen screen which says "updating system software" or no progress/response from module using the universal USB updater. This may be due to low memory in the APIM commonly occurring on software level NU5T-14G381-AB/BB. The current software level can be verified in the SYNC tab of Professional Technician System (PTS) or using the vehicle's center display screen, Settings > General > About. To correct the condition, run the universal USB updater. If unsuccessful, using the latest software version of the FDRS scan tool, run the service function "APIM - Reset the Accessory Protocol Interface Module Application" and select "Clear All User Data" option. The center display screen will reboot. As soon as the vehicle's center display screen displays the boot up logo, immediately reinsert the same universal serial bus (USB) drive that was utilized during the prior failed programming attempt.
SSM 526752024-07-03. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2019-2024 vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a programming Error - "INSTL_ERR12" while programming APIM using the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System, or experience a frozen screen which says "updating system software" or no progress/response from module using the universal USB updater. This may be due to low memory in the APIM commonly occurring on software level
SSM 526522024-07-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. On 2020-2024 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).
24B342024-07-02. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Certain 2020 through 2023 Model Year Explorer Police Interceptor Units (PIU) Powertrain Control Module Software Update In some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience various symptoms including lack of engine power, lag in throttle response, delayed shifts, and/or multiple warning indicators including check engine light with DTC P084B. These issues may adversely affect pursuits and other police duties.
TSB 24-21822024-06-13. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. This article supersedes TSB 23-2307 to update the Service Procedure and vehicle model years affected. Some 2019-2020 Edge/F-150/Fusion/Continental/MKZ/Nautilus, 2019-2021 Transit Connect, 2019-2023 Mustang, 2019-2023 Ranger, 2020-2021 Expedition/Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair/Super Duty/EcoSport, 2020-2024 Explorer/Aviator/Transit, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, 2022-2024 Maverick 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 theaccesory protocol interface module (APIM) software.
TSB 24-21762024-06-07. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. This article supersedes TSBs 24-2100 and 24-2070 to add 2023 F-150 vehicles, update the TSB Issue statement and the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2021-2023 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2020-2023 Transit/Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an 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 the software in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM), the transmission solenoid ID strategy, sticking valves in the main control valve body and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to identify and correct the condition.
SSM 525482024-05-23. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Various vehicles equiped with 10R80/10R80 MHT/10R100/10R140 transmissions may require replacement of the seal kits (7153) when internal repairs are being performed. These kits come with 4 wheel drive (4WD) seals and will no longer include the 2WD seals. When working on a 2WD vehicle, any 2WD seals must be ordered separately. Refer to the parts catalog for the proper 2WD seals required.
SSM 525432024-05-23. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2021-2024 F-150-3.5L FHEV, 2020-2024 Explorer 3.3L FHEV, 2020-2024 Escape 2.5L FHEV, and 2022-2024 Maverick 2.5L FHEV vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P237F and/or P2C23 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) and no affect on drivability. This may be due to seal damage, corrosion and/or water intrusion in the exhaust coolant temperature (ECT) sensors 3 and/or 4 connector. Visual inspection should be completed on ECT3 and ECT4 sensors and mating connections for seal damage, water intrusion, and corrosion. If seal damage, water intrusion or corrosion is present, repair per cell 5 of the Wiring Diagram, then apply Motorcraft® XG-12 Electrical Grease to the female/vehicle side of the harness. This inspection of ECT3 and ECT4 sensors should be completed prior to starting the appropriate pinpoint test in Section 303-03 of the Workshop Manual (WSM). If DTCs P237F and/or P2C23 do not return, no further action is necessary and the replacement of the entire exhaust heat exchanger assembly is not required. If P237F and/or P2C23 returns, follow the pinpoint test in Section 303-03 of the WSM for further diagnostics.
SSM 525092024-05-17. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2023-2024 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built on 04-Dec-2023 and through 16-Apr-2024 may exhibit a condition where FordPass is inoperative, Fleet Telematics cannot be enrolled and/or the TCU fails provisioning with the parameter identification (PID) for TCU Auth mode reading as Unprovisioned mode. This may be due to incorrect configuration data in the TCU, audio front control module (ACM) and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) modules. To correct the condition, download and run the TCU-Telematics Control Unit (TCU) Module Configuration application and the APIM-Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Configuration application using the latest level of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) scan tool. If the APIM is not available on the vehicle, then run the configuration applications for the TCU-Telematics Control Unit (TCU) Module Configuration and the ACM-Audio Front Control Module (ACM) Configuration using the latest level of the FDRS scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 14G087 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 525032024-05-17. Service bulletin. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM. Some 2023-2024 Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with the 3.0L EcoBoost engine and up to 15,000 miles (24,140 km) may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P219A (Bank 1 Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance) and/or P219B (Bank 2 Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance) stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) with no effect on vehicle operation. To correct this condition, replace the fuel injector assemblies (service part L1MZ-9F593-B) for only the respective bank setting the DTC. Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 303-04B. For claiming, use causal part 9F593 and applicable labor standards in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 524822024-05-03. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2020-2024 Explorer/Aviator 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). Diagnosis should include checking the fuel pump monitor (VE518) and/or a fuel pump control (VE225) circuits, connector pin push-outs, damaged pins/terminals, and/or loose/corroded grounds. Inspect FPCM connector C433/C4033, ground G407, and inline connections C1147 and C3136 for being fully seated and damage free prior to performing guided diagnostics or replacing any components.
SSM 524762024-05-03. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery. Unlike the integrated (wired) factory keypad, the accessory keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is lost, follow these steps to recover the code. Dealer Key Code access is granted through the Dealer Program Enrollment System (DPES); dealership management can authorize users. The authorized user must go to FMCDealer.com > Parts and Service > Parts Product Line Information > Keys/Entry Devices > Aftermarket Keyless Entry Keypad Code Access. Follow the instructions on the screen to obtain the master code for the accessory keypad.
SSM 524352024-04-29. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE: UNDERRIDE; UNKNOWN OR OTHER. Some 2020-2023 Explorer vehicles may exhibit various issues with the roof rack side. If there is an issue with the roof rack side that requires replacement, a lower level service part is now available separately (7855114 and 7855115). It is no longer necessary to replace the entire roof rack assembly.
SSM 524052024-04-24. Service bulletin. SUSPENSION. Some 2023 Explorer vehicles built on 01-Dec-2022 and through 31-Aug-2023 may exhibit a rattle/clunk/knock/pop/thump noise from the front suspension at low speeds between 8-20 mph (13-32 km/h) over bumpy or uneven pavement. This may be due a loose pressure tube within the strut assembly. Diagnose and replace the 18124 front strut or struts as needed by which side(s) the noise is isolated to. If noise persists, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) > Section 204-00 > Diagnosis and Testing > Suspension System > Stop/Steer/Ride > Noise > Front > Over Bump. For claiming, use causal part 18124 and applicable labor operations in Section 3 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
TSB 24-21002024-04-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 24-2059 to update the Service Procedure LTIS statement. Some 2021-2022 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2020-2023 Transit/Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) that are stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to the software in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM), the transmission solenoid ID strategy, sticking valves in the main control valve body and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve.
TSB 24-20692024-04-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2020-2023 Explorer/Aviator 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or powertrain malfunction (wrench) indicator with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P084B stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to the software thresholds in the PCM. To correct this condition, perform the Service Procedure below to reprogram the PCM to the latest software level via the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS). This TSB is superceded by TSB 24-2082
TSB 24-20592024-04-04. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. This article supersedes TSB 23-2351 to remove 2023 F-150 10R80 and 10R80 MHT vehicle applications. The 2023 F-150 10R80 and 10R80 MHT vehicles will be the subject of a separate article. Some 2021-2022 F-150, 2022-2023 Expedition/Navigator/Mustang and 2020-2023 Transit/Explorer/Aviator vehicles equipped with a 10R80/10R80MHT transmission may exhibit a harsh/delayed engagement and/or harsh/delayed shift, an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes that are stored in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This may be due to the software in the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM), the transmission solenoid ID strategy, sticking valves in the main control valve body and/or axial movement of the CDF clutch cylinder (7H351) sleeve.
SSM 523902024-04-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA. Some 2023-2024 Explorer vehicles built on or after 31-Jul-2023 (minor feature code J3KAJ which can be confirmed by double-clicking the VIN on PTS in the upper left corner) are no longer equipped with the 360 degree view camera or reverse brake assist features. Vehicles affected are equipped with only rear functioning cameras. The vehicle is not misbuilt. Do not submit a claim for this condition. Affected vehicles of this change can be verified by entering a vehicle identification number (VIN) on Professional Technician System (PTS) to check for a 360-degree camera credit on the window sticker. Diagnosis and repair for any parking aid concerns on these vehicles should follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 413-13B for Rear Parking Aid Camera System only. Do not use the 360 degree view camera or reverse brake assist diagnostics or repair procedures.
SSM 523512024-04-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM. Certain 2023-2024 Explorer vehicle trim levels built on or after 6-Feb-2023 are no longer equipped with the rear heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control panel on the rear of the center console. The following Explorer trim levels no longer include the rear HVAC control panel: Base, XLT 200A, XLT 202A without the Sport Appearance Package (sales code: 68M). Customers can adjust the rear climate control system via the front HVAC control panel. Installation of a rear HVAC control panel is not warrantable.
TSB 23-20582024-04-03. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. This TSB supersedes TSB 22-2377 to update the vehicle model years affected and Parts List. Some 2020-2023 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine or 2020-2023 Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L PHEV engine may exhibit a ticking/tapping or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine 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 a worn VCT unit. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the VCT units
SSM 523352024-03-20. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING. For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.

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