2020 Ford Explorer Safety Report
2020 Ford Explorer: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Significant Powertrain and Recall-Related Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Ford Explorer
Reliability Score
The 2020 Ford Explorer receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2020 Ford Explorer
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Ford Explorer:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure/Erratic Shifting Numerous reports of hard downshifts, erratic shifting, whining, clunking, and complete transmission failure, often leading to loss of propulsion while driving. |
High | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Rearview camera displaying blue/black screens, grainy images, or flipping/inverting, reducing driver visibility when backing up. Subject to multiple recalls. |
Medium | Common | all miles |
| Windshield Wiper Motor Failure Windshield wipers failing to operate, significantly reducing visibility during adverse weather conditions. Subject to recall. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Seat Belt Anchor Bolt Issues Improperly secured seat belt anchor bolts at second-row outer seating positions, potentially compromising occupant restraint in a crash. Subject to multiple recalls. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Rear Axle Horizontal Mounting Bolt Fracture Fracture of the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt, leading to a disconnected driveshaft and potential vehicle rollaway or loss of motive power. Subject to recall. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Engine Block Heater Electrical Short Electrical short circuit in the engine block heater, increasing the risk of fire. Subject to recall. |
High | Rare | all miles |
| Sunroof Sunshade Malfunction Sunshade for the sunroof detaching, sagging, or failing to operate, obstructing the driver's rear view or affecting rear passenger comfort/safety. |
Medium | Common | all miles |
| Door Latch Defect Driver side door latch defect causing occupants to be locked in or out, requiring climbing over the console to exit. |
Medium | Rare | all miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Ford Explorer:
Frequent complaints about transmission issues including hard shifts, erratic behavior, and complete failure, often leading to loss of propulsion.
A significant number of complaints categorized as 'unknown or other' often relate to various electrical glitches, interior component failures, or issues not fitting standard categories.
Issues with rearview cameras, including blank screens, inverted images, or poor quality, impacting rear visibility.
Various electrical problems, including engine block heater shorts, headlight failures, and general system malfunctions.
Reports of engine damage, oil consumption, and catalytic converter failures.
Problems with headlights, particularly low beams failing or requiring full assembly replacement.
Complaints about brake performance, including instances of brakes not working in park or unexpected vehicle movement.
Windshield wiper motor failures leading to inoperable wipers and reduced visibility.
Issues like pillar trim blowing off the vehicle and sunroof sunshade malfunctions.
Problems with seat belt anchors and second-row easy-entry seat mechanisms.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Ford Explorer
Is the 2020 Ford Explorer safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Ford Explorer achieved excellent 5-star crash test ratings for overall, frontal, and side impacts, with a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has a high volume of 1088 consumer complaints, including 33 crashes and 36 injuries, and 31 recalls, indicating significant real-world safety concerns, particularly with the powertrain and various component failures.
What are common problems with the 2020 Ford Explorer?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Ford Explorer are related to the POWER TRAIN (287 complaints), frequently involving transmission failures, erratic shifting, and loss of propulsion. Other common problems include rearview camera malfunctions (BACK OVER PREVENTION, 56 complaints), electrical system issues (43 complaints), and engine problems (39 complaints).
How many recalls does the 2020 Ford Explorer have?
The 2020 Ford Explorer has a substantial recall history with 31 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address critical safety issues such as improperly secured seat belt anchor bolts, rearview camera software defects, windshield wiper motor failures, engine block heater fire risks, and rear axle mounting bolt fractures.
Are there any fire risks with the 2020 Ford Explorer?
Yes, there have been 10 reported fires in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 Ford Explorer. Additionally, one of the recalls (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V-097) specifically addresses an electrical short circuit in the engine block heater that can increase the risk of fire.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2020 Ford Explorer?
When considering a used 2020 Ford Explorer, pay close attention to the transmission's performance for any signs of erratic shifting, clunking, or hesitation. Verify that all 31 recalls have been addressed by a Ford dealership. Also, check the rearview camera functionality, windshield wiper operation, and listen for any unusual engine noises or signs of oil consumption.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2020 Ford Explorer boasts strong crash test scores, its high number of complaints and recalls, particularly concerning the powertrain, warrant caution. Thoroughly investigate service history for recall compliance and transmission repairs before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Ford Explorer
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Ford Explorer. The data includes 1088 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 31 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 33 reported crashes, 10 fire incidents, 36 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Ford Explorer an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.