Ford Explorer 2021–2022 — technical service bulletin
Bulletin SSM 51098 · NHTSA communication 10222064 · issued Sep 26, 2022
Technical service bulletin
communication type
Power Train
component
2021–2022
model years
2
vehicle entries
Official summary
Some 2021-2022 Explorer - Timberline - vehicles may exhibit a rear differential that is venting rear axle fluid. This may result in a noise, odor, or leak noticed by the customer. Inspect the rear of the vehicle for signs of rear differential fluid venting into the rear wheel well, or leaking from the rear differential. If signs of fluid leaks are found from any seals, repair as necessary per Workshop Manual Section 205-02. If no seal leaks are found but fluid is venting, drain the rear differential. Add 85-100 ml of Motorcraft® XL-3 Additive Friction Modifier. Refill with fresh rear differen
Vehicles covered
What a TSB means. Technical service bulletins are repair guidance manufacturers send to dealers — they are not recalls, and repairs are not automatically free (warranty extensions are an exception worth checking). The full document is available via NHTSA’s vehicle lookup.