Makes›Ford›Explorer›2022

2022 Ford Explorer

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2022 models.

Ford Explorer
Pictured: Ford Explorer (sixth generation) IMG 6063. Photo: Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Body styles
4dr SUV, 4dr SUV Hybrid
Engines
3.3L 6-cyl, 2.3L 4-cyl turbo, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo
Horsepower
300–400 hp
Transmission
10-speed automatic
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Seats
6
Fuel
Hybrid, Regular Gasoline, FFV
MPG (best)
27 combined · 27 city / 28 hwy
Length
198.8 in
Curb weight
4,458–4,969 lb
NHTSA rating
Not rated
Recalls
25 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • Excellent fuel economyUp to 27 MPG combined — 39% better than the average 2022 standard SUV (19.4 MPG).
  • Strong performanceUp to 400 hp, versus about 291 hp for similar 2022 models.
  • Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
  • AWD / 4WD available
  • Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.

Watch out for

  • 25 recallsMore than similar models (about 5). Confirm repairs with the VIN.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 22 similar 2022 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2022 Ford Explorer is a standard SUV offered with 3 engines (3.3L 6-cyl, 2.3L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and rear-wheel drive and part-time 4-wheel drive.

It measures about 199 inches long and 79 inches wide on a 119-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,458 lb (4dr SUV).

EPA rates its most efficient version at 27 MPG combined (27 city / 28 highway), 39% better than the 2022 standard SUV average of 19.4 MPG, for an estimated $2,500 a year in fuel.

NHTSA has not published a 5-Star overall rating for this model year.

It has 25 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 273 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the power train.

What changed for 2022

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2021 Explorer — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2021; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2021 Explorer →

Trims, performance & features

Engine400 hp3.0L turbo 6-cyl
Engine300 hp2.3L 4-cyl
Transmission10-speed automatic
DriveAWD/4WD · RWD
Seating6 seats · 3 rows

Trims

STXLTTimberlineLimited

Safety & driver-assist features

Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Rear cross-traffic alertStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Lane centeringStandard
Adaptive cruise controlSome trims
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes

Built in: Chicago, Illinois

NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2022 Explorer configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr SUV198.8 in78.7 in70.1 in119.3 in66.9 / 66.9 in4,458 lb50/50
4dr SUV Hybrid198.8 in78.7 in70.1 in119.3 in66.9 / 66.9 in4,969 lb52/48

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
Explorer HEV RWD Hybrid3.3L 6-cylAutomatic (S10)Rear-Wheel Drive27 / 28 / 27+39%$2,500324
Explorer Platinum HEV RWD Hybrid3.3L 6-cylAutomatic (S10)Rear-Wheel Drive25 / 26 / 26+34%$2,600342
Explorer HEV AWD Hybrid3.3L 6-cylAutomatic (S10)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive23 / 26 / 25+32%$2,700361
Explorer RWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdRear-Wheel Drive21 / 28 / 24+24%$2,800370
Explorer RWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdRear-Wheel Drive20 / 28 / 23+19%$2,900386
Explorer AWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdPart-time 4-Wheel Drive20 / 27 / 23+22%$2,900387
Explorer Platinum HEV AWD Hybrid3.3L 6-cylAutomatic (S10)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive23 / 24 / 23+22%$2,900379
Explorer AWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdPart-time 4-Wheel Drive20 / 26 / 22+16%$3,050404
Explorer RWD3.0L 6-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdRear-Wheel Drive18 / 26 / 21+8%$3,200428
Explorer Timberline AWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic (S10)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive19 / 22 / 21+11%$3,200433
Explorer RWD3.0L 6-cyl turboAutomatic (S10)Rear-Wheel Drive18 / 25 / 20+3%$3,350437
Explorer AWD3.0L 6-cyl turboAutomatic (S10)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive18 / 24 / 20+6%$3,350444
Explorer AWD3.0L 6-cyl turboAutomatic 10-spdPart-time 4-Wheel Drive18 / 24 / 20+6%$3,350445
Explorer Timberline AWD2.3L 4-cyl turboAutomatic (S10)Part-time 4-Wheel Drive19 / 21 / 20+6%$3,350445
Explorer FFV AWD FFV3.3L 6-cylAutomatic 10-spdPart-time 4-Wheel Drive16 / 24 / 19+1%$3,550470
6/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
6/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Spend $500Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
19.4 MPG2022 Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2022 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

VersionOverallFrontalDriver / passengerSideSide poleRolloverRollover risk
2022 Ford Explorer SUV 4WDNot ratedNot rated–★ / –★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★15.1%
2022 Ford Explorer SUV RWDNot ratedNot rated–★ / –★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★14.7%
StandardElectronic stability control
StandardForward collision warning
StandardLane departure warning
Side crash test — 2022 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD
Side crash test — 2022 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD. Photo: NHTSA.
Side crash test — 2022 Ford Explorer SUV RWD
Side crash test — 2022 Ford Explorer SUV RWD. Photo: NHTSA.

Similar 2022 standard SUVs

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2022 Ford Explorer (this car)27 MPGNot rated25
2022 Toyota 4Runner17 MPG★★★★★3
2022 Toyota Highlander36 MPG★★★★★6
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee23 MPGNot rated24
2022 Kia Telluride23 MPG★★★★★7
2022 Kia Sorento37 MPG★★★★★9
2022 Nissan Pathfinder23 MPG★★★★★5

Recalls (25)

Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly · Jul 14, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V451000 · 387,911 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
Risk
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Seat Belts · Mar 17, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V159000 · 561 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
Risk
A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix
Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Mar 3, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V123000 · 889,950 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor · Mar 3, 2026

NHTSA campaign 26V117000 · 604,533 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The windshield wiper motor may fail and prevent the windshield wipers from operating properly.
Risk
Windshield wipers that fail to operate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will inspect and replace the front wiper motors as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 2, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in November 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S14. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 4, 2026.
Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater · Oct 10, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V685000 · 59,006 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Risk
An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix
Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 3, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump · Jul 7, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V455000 · 850,318 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
Risk
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump on super duty vehicles and update the powertrain control module (PCM) software on all other affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Jun 27, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V442000 · 200,237 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Risk
A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly · Jun 13, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V393000 · 304,662 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Risk
A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix
Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Mar 14, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V159000 · 49,399 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft · Mar 14, 2025

NHTSA campaign 25V166000 · 4,247 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall numbers 23V-199 or 22V-255. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk
A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S22.
Equipment › Other › Labels · Nov 8, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V852000 · 27,678 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk
Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Fix
Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical · Aug 23, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V635000 · 90,736 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
Risk
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 3, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
Engine · Aug 9, 2024

NHTSA campaign 24V598000 · 85,238 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with the Police Interceptor Utility Package. In the event of an engine failure, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire.
Risk
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix
Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as promptly as possible upon hearing unexpected engine noises, or after experiencing an unexpected engine power reduction, or seeing smoke from the engine compartment. Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software. In addition, dealers will inspect for connecting rod bearing failure and if necessary, replace the engine long block. All inspections and repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S52.
Power Train › Driveline › Driveshaft · Oct 6, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V675000 · 238,364 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk
A disconnected driveshaft can result in a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway if the parking brake is not applied. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will replace the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt. They will also inspect the rear axle cover for damage near the bolt hole location and replace with a new cover if any damage is found. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S55.
Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery · Sep 8, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V626000 · 2,954 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.0L PHEV engines. A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.
Risk
Battery failure can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Battery failure can also increase the risk of a fire.
Fix
Dealers will perform a Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) diagnostic test and replace the high voltage battery pack, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford Motor Company's number for this recall is 23S53.
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera · May 12, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V342000 · 442,973 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Back Over Prevention › Display Function · Apr 28, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V305000 · 523 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with a 12.1-inch Integrated Computer Screen (ICS). When the Display On/Off Button is used to turn the display to "Off" prior to placing the vehicle in reverse, the backup camera rearview image will not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
Dealers will update the ICS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C14.
Parking Brake › Electrical · Mar 24, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V199000 · 674 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk
Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm) · Feb 10, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V069000 · 3,674 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.
Risk
A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Fix
Dealers will inspect the park system for damage and repair as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 28, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S05.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · Feb 10, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V070000 · 1,138 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The transmission may contain a loose bolt which could prevent the transmission from engaging the park gear, although the gear shifter position may indicate that the vehicle has been shifted to "PARK."
Risk
The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S06.
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera · Jan 23, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V022000 · 382,759 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Risk
Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings · Sep 14, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V685000 · 69 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Ranger vehicles equipped with 2.3L engines. The fuel line may be loose due to improper tightening of the fuel line connection.
Risk
An improperly tightened fuel line connection may result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of fire.
Fix
Ford will inspect and replace the fuel line assembly, if needed, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 29, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S60.
Engine · Jun 24, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V454000 · 776 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles. The engine rails may have been improperly heat-treated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Risk
Improperly heat-treated engine rails may reduce the vehicle's structural protection in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. In addition, an engine rail may detach and contact the road while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Dealers will perform an engine rail strength test and replace the rails as necessary, free of charge. If the engine rails require replacement, owners will have the option for a vehicle replacement or buyback. Owner notification letters were mailed August 22, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C13.
Power Train › Axle Assembly · Apr 14, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V255000 · 252,936 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, Explorer Police 3.3L, and 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, and 3.0L ST GAS vehicles. The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk
A disconnected driveshaft can result in vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in 'Park' without the parking brake applied, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the bushing and axle cover, or update the electronic parking brake software. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022, and March 10, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S27.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe And Cap · Feb 16, 2022

NHTSA campaign 22V088000 · 18,366 vehicles

Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The fuel filler tube may detach during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Risk
A detached fuel filler tube can result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix
Dealers will install a fuel vapor line redundant locking clip, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 4, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22C02.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2022 Ford Explorer is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

273Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
17Involved a crash
1Involved a fire
23Injuries reported
38,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Power Train58
Unknown Or Other57
Electrical System36
Engine30
Fuel/Propulsion System23
Visibility/Wiper22
Fuel System, Gasoline15
Suspension13
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/11: 424/12: 225/01: 825/02: 425/03: 425/04: 725/05: 425/06: 125/07: 925/08: 825/09: 625/10: 525/11: 925/12: 326/01: 526/02: 626/03: 926/04: 826/05: 726/06: 826/07: 1126/08: 726/09: 1026/10: 424/1125/0225/0525/0825/1126/0226/0526/08max 11

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2022 Ford Explorer buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 25 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Power Train — 58 owner reports. Test-drive through all gears, including reverse; note slipping, harsh or delayed shifts.
  3. Electrical System — 36 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
  4. Engine — 30 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
  5. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 38,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  6. Hybrid system. Check for hybrid-system warning lights and ask whether the high-voltage battery has been replaced or is still under warranty.
  7. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2022 Ford Explorer. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other Explorer years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2027 Explorer23–Not rated20
2026 Explorer24198.8 inNot rated1542
2025 Explorer24198.8 in★★★★★22109
2024 Explorer24198.8 in★★★★★1021
2023 Explorer27198.8 in★★★★★15113
2021 Explorer27198.8 in★★★★★27456
2020 Explorer28198.8 in★★★★★351,249
2019 Explorer22198.4 in★★★★★6300
2018 Explorer22198.4 in★★★★★7737
2017 Explorer22198.4 in★★★★★141,713
2016 Explorer22198.4 inNot rated142,484
2015 Explorer23197.2 inNot rated81,815

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Ford. How we calculate this →