2021 Ford Explorer engine problems
48 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2021 Ford Explorer — 11% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“I had a very serious safety failure of my 2021 Ford explorer. On Monday, XXX my 2021 Explorer suffered an unprompted, catastrophic failure matching recall 26S48, but Ford is denying coverage based on build dates. After driving roughly 35mph, pressing the brake, and nearing a stop sign, the explorer…”
filed Sep 17, 2026
“I am reporting ongoing safety-related powertrain and drivability concerns involving my 2021 Ford Explorer ST in Fresno, California. The vehicle has experienced recurring transmission and driveline problems, including harsh or delayed shifting, hesitation, abrupt gear engagement, jerking/surging…”
filed Sep 1, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a…Campaign 24V635000 · Aug 23, 2024
- In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the…Campaign 24V598000 · Aug 9, 2024
- Right hand motor mount fasteners may have been incorrectly tightened, and may loosen over…Campaign 20V788000 · Dec 17, 2020
Engine problems in other Explorer years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Explorer | 6 | 18% |
| 2025 Explorer | 7 | 7% |
| 2024 Explorer | 1 | 5% |
| 2023 Explorer | 10 | 9% |
| 2022 Explorer | 30 | 11% |
| 2020 Explorer | 113 | 9% |
| 2019 Explorer | 19 | 6% |
| 2018 Explorer | 95 | 13% |
| 2017 Explorer | 237 | 14% |
| 2016 Explorer | 381 | 16% |
| 2015 Explorer | 226 | 13% |
| 2014 Explorer | 196 | 12% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Ford Explorer
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.