2021 Ford Explorer Safety Report

2021 Ford Explorer: Excellent Crash Ratings Mask Numerous Recalls and Powertrain Reliability Concerns

362Complaints
24Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
45/100Reliability Score
13Crash Reports
4Fire Reports
13Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (73)Unknown Or Other (50)Back Over Prevention (23)Engine (18)Structure (14)Electrical System (14)Visibility/Wiper (12)Engine And Engine Cooling (9)Seats (8)Visibility (7)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Ford Explorer presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, scoring 5 stars overall, for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover, the vehicle has been subject to a high number of recalls and consumer complaints. With 362 total complaints, 13 crashes, 4 fires, and 13 injuries reported to NHTSA, there are significant concerns regarding component reliability. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the POWER TRAIN (73 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (50 complaints), and BACK OVER PREVENTION (23 complaints). The recall history is extensive, with 24 recalls issued, many of which directly address critical safety components. For instance, multiple recalls relate to seat belt anchor bolts (e.g., 'SEAT BELTS' recalls), rearview camera malfunctions ('BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE' recalls), and potential engine stalls due to fuel pump issues ('FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP' recall). A particularly concerning pattern involves the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt, which has been subject to multiple recalls and subsequent repair failures, leading to driveline instability and potential vehicle rollaway, as evidenced by several complaints. Despite its strong crash test performance, the sheer volume of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain and safety systems like seat belts and rearview cameras, indicates potential manufacturing or design flaws that could compromise safety in real-world driving conditions. The recurring nature of some issues, such as the rear axle bolt and rearview camera problems, suggests that initial recall remedies may not have been fully effective. Buyers should be aware of these persistent mechanical and safety-related issues.

Reliability Score

The 2021 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 2021 Ford Explorer

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Ford Explorer:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Rear Axle Bolt Fracture/Failure
The rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture, leading to a disconnected driveshaft, loss of power, and potential vehicle rollaway. This issue has been subject to multiple recalls and subsequent repair failures.		 High Common 19000-60000 miles
Rearview Camera Malfunction
The rearview camera image may flip, invert, or display a blank screen, reducing driver visibility and increasing crash risk. This has been addressed by several software-related recalls.		 High Common unknown miles
Seat Belt Anchor Bolt Improperly Secured
Seat belt anchor bolts at various seating positions may be improperly secured, potentially failing to restrain occupants during a crash.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
The windshield wiper motor may fail, preventing wipers from operating and reducing visibility, especially in adverse weather.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Engine Stall Due To Fuel Pump Failure
A faulty fuel pump module may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Sunroof Shade Sagging/Detachment
The sunroof shade cover can detach from its tracks and sag, impeding rear visibility and causing noise.		 Medium Common unknown miles
Transmission Clutch Failure/Rough Shifting
Reports of rough downshifts, transmission clutch failure, and the need for transmission replacement.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Oil Leaks (Engine/Drivetrain)
Ongoing oil leaks reported from the engine/drivetrain area, including intermediate shaft and oil pan.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Ford Explorer:

Power Train 20% of complaints

Frequent complaints related to the powertrain, including rear axle bolt failures, driveline instability, and transmission issues.

Back Over Prevention 6% of complaints

Issues with rearview camera malfunctions, including inverted images or blank screens, leading to reduced rear visibility.

Engine 5% of complaints

Reports of engine stalls, check engine lights, and catalytic converter issues, sometimes requiring engine replacement.

Visibility/Wiper 3% of complaints

Problems with windshield wiper motor failure and reduced visibility due to internal windshield defects or sagging sunroof shades.

Seats 2% of complaints

Concerns about improperly secured seat belt anchor bolts and second-row seats unlatching or moving unexpectedly.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

Various electrical issues, including parking collision sensor malfunctions and potential electrical shorts related to engine block heaters.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Ford Explorer

Is the 2021 Ford Explorer safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Ford Explorer received excellent 5-star crash test ratings for overall, frontal, and side impacts, and a 4-star rollover rating. However, it has a high number of 362 complaints and 24 recalls, many addressing critical safety components like seat belts, rearview cameras, and powertrain integrity. While it performs well in controlled crash tests, the numerous reported issues and recalls suggest potential real-world reliability and safety concerns.

What are common problems with the 2021 Ford Explorer?

The most reported issues for the 2021 Ford Explorer are related to the POWER TRAIN (73 complaints), including recurring rear axle bolt failures and transmission problems. Other common problems involve BACK OVER PREVENTION (23 complaints) due to rearview camera malfunctions, ENGINE issues (18 complaints) like stalls and catalytic converter failures, and VISIBILITY/WIPER problems (12 complaints) such as wiper motor failures and sagging sunroof shades.

How many recalls does the 2021 Ford Explorer have?

The 2021 Ford Explorer has been subject to a significant 24 recalls by NHTSA. These recalls address a wide range of issues, including improperly secured seat belt anchor bolts, rearview camera software malfunctions, windshield wiper motor failures, potential electrical shorts, fuel pump issues leading to engine stalls, and critical rear axle bolt fractures.

Are there any fire risks with the 2021 Ford Explorer?

Yes, there have been 4 fires reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Ford Explorer. Additionally, one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V598000) specifically addresses a potential electrical short circuit in the engine block heater that can increase the risk of a fire.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Ford Explorer?

When considering a used 2021 Ford Explorer, pay close attention to the powertrain, specifically checking for any signs of rear axle issues or transmission problems. Verify that all 24 recalls, especially those related to the rear axle bolt, seat belts, and rearview camera, have been completed and that any remedies have been effective. Inspect the sunroof shade for sagging and test the rearview camera and windshield wipers thoroughly.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, the 2021 Ford Explorer's extensive recall history and numerous powertrain and safety-related complaints warrant caution; ensure all 24 recalls have been properly addressed and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on known issues like the rear axle and transmission.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Ford Explorer

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Ford Explorer. The data includes 362 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 24 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 13 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 13 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.