2011 Ford Explorer

Above average

Owners filed 1,198 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 8 times.

Not among the Ford Explorer years to avoid. Which Ford Explorer years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
70,000 milesMedian miles at failure

877 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.

Most common 2011 Ford Explorer problems

686 of the 1,198 complaints (57%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering673
1402
Unknown or Other77
102
Engine67
111
Electrical System55
211
Structure · body and frame54
000
Structure › Body · body and frame45
100
Air Bags · airbags38
201
Power Train · transmission36
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system26
005
Service Brakes · brakes16
310

2011 Ford Explorer steering problems

57% of all complaints

686 of the 1,198 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks36% · 244
  • sets off warning lights on the dash35% · 237
  • loses power21% · 143

Share of the 686 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
67,000 mi
median of 529 reports
Peak year of filing
2012
119 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
14 · 0 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
“Car has a history of showing a P07AE-09 code in the power steering control module. When the code logs in the computer the car loses power steering assist while driving causing the steering to be hard to turn. Upon researching the cars recall work we seen that the car had the power steering control module software updated but no steering gear changed.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 6, 2026
“I am reporting a serious safety concern involving my 2011 Ford Explorer, VIN [XXX]. After recently filling the vehicle with fuel, I went to drive it and received a “Power Steering Assist Fault” message on the dashboard. The vehicle then lost power steering assistance, making the steering extremely difficult and requiring significantly more effort to control.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 29, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2011: 20 complaints, 3 about the steering'112012: 141 complaints, 119 about the steering2013: 98 complaints, 85 about the steering'132014: 89 complaints, 54 about the steering2015: 67 complaints, 29 about the steering'152016: 59 complaints, 9 about the steering2017: 91 complaints, 24 about the steering'172018: 71 complaints, 27 about the steering2019: 73 complaints, 34 about the steering'192020: 44 complaints, 28 about the steering2021: 53 complaints, 33 about the steering'212022: 103 complaints, 84 about the steering2023: 84 complaints, 55 about the steering'232024: 96 complaints, 55 about the steering2025: 82 complaints, 34 about the steering'252026: 27 complaints, 13 about the steeringRecall 11V063000 (seats)Recall 14E001000 (steering)Recall 14V286000 (steering)Recall 15V171000 (body and frame)Recall 17E048000 (wheels)Recall 19V435000 (suspension)Recall 21V746000 (suspension)Recall 24V031000 (body and frame)NHTSA investigation PE23001NHTSA investigation EA17002NHTSA investigation PE16008NHTSA investigation PE12017
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2011 Explorer peaked in 2012, with 141 filed that year. Owners had filed 208 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 14E001000 in January 2014; 478 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 27 so far.

8 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars24V031000
Filed Jan 19, 20241,889,110 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.

Risk. A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years. Owner notification letters were mailed between July 18, 2024 and December 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S02.

Suspension › Rear21V746000
Filed Sep 22, 2021150,723 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. These vehicles may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part that could seize, and result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.

Risk. A rear toe link fracture can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealer will inspect for the presence of a CABJ. If a CABJ of any design is found, the dealer will inspect the tightness of the CABJ, and replace the CABJ, knuckle, and/or toe link as necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S43.

Suspension › Rear19V435000
Filed Jun 10, 20191,194,173 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.

Risk. A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, and inspect both rear toe link ball joints, replacing the rear wheel knuckle(s), if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S17.

Wheels › Hub17E048000
Filed Aug 28, 2017630 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.

Risk. A loss of the wheel or wheel end can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify the distributors of the hubs specifying that they are to only be used on drive axles. It is believed that none of the hubs were purchased from Ford dealers for the incorrect application. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.

Structure › Body › Door15V171000
Filed Mar 24, 2015194,484 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.

Risk. If the interior door handle return spring is unseated, the door may unlatch in the event of a side impact crash, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four of the interior door handles and either repair or replace them, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S11.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System14V286000
Filed May 29, 2014179,027 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can cause a loss of the motor position sensor signal resulting in a shut down of the power steering assist.

Risk. If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist it will require extra steering effort at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software, free of charge. If a vehicle shows a history of a loss of motor position sensor signal when the vehicle is brought in for the recall remedy, its steering rack assembly will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on July 23, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S06.

Steering14E001000
Filed Jan 6, 2014300 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain replacement steering gears installed on model year 2011-2012 Explorers as service parts in September 2013 and January 2014. The affected gears may lock, preventing the driver from being able to steer the vehicle.

Risk. The inability to steer the vehicle increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the suspect steering gears with new steering gears, free of charge. The recall began on January 29, 2014. Customers may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 13S14.

Filed Feb 2, 20111,658 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 EXPLORER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 15, 2010, THROUGH DECEMBER 13, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SECOND ROW 60% SEATS WITH MANUAL RECLINER MECHANISMS THAT MAY HAVE COMPONENTS THAT ARE OUT OF DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATION. THESE SEATS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."

Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BACK MAY NOT PROVIDE THE REQUIRED STRENGTH, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE SEATS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 15, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

All 8 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2011 Explorer.

Windshield trim molding Item detachmentPreliminary evaluation PE23001Closed
Opened Jan 27, 2023Closed Feb 8, 2024Led to recall 24V031body and frame

On January 27, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-001 to investigate allegations of A-pillar trim panel detachment on model year (MY) 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles. At the time of opening, the office had received 164 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting this failure. ODI has received 671 VOQs regarding this failure, including 1 alleged crash and 2 alleged injuries. Some consumers have reported that the failure occurred while they were driving at highway speeds, with the detached trim panel entering the path of travel of the vehicle behind them, requiring …

Exhaust Odor in Passenger CabEngineering analysis EA17002Closed
Opened Jul 27, 2017Closed Jan 17, 2023engine

During the EA17-002 investigation, the agency reviewed and analyzed reports of exhaust odors in the passenger cabins of Model Year 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorers. This investigation required an approach that incorporated knowledge and expertise from the automotive, medical, environmental health, and occupational safety fields. The agency conducted an in-depth investigation that encompassed the review of over 6,500 consumer complaints, conducting field inspections, and testing the relevant vehicles, both independently and in coordination with Ford and other entities. During the investigation, the …

Ford Explorer Exhaust OdorPreliminary evaluation PE16008Closed
Opened Jul 1, 2016Closed Sep 12, 2017engine

During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s (NHTSA?s) investigation into the Ford carbon monoxide allegations, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) identified additional Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports with similar exhaust odor claims.Presently, ODI has identified 791 VOQs for Model Year 2011-2017 Ford Explorers pertaining to exhaust odor claims.ODI has identified three crashes and 41 injuries potentially linked this issue.The reported injuries range from unspecified to loss of consciousness, with the majority being nausea, headaches, or dizziness ? all of which …

Electric power steering failurePreliminary evaluation PE12017Closed
Opened Jun 19, 2012Closed Jun 12, 2014Led to recall 14V286000steering

On May 27, 2014 and amended June 2, 2014, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 179,027 model year (MY) 2011 through 2013 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with electric power assisted steering (EPAS), including 82,328 MY 2011 Explorersthat are the subject of PE12-017.Ford has assigned the recall number 14S06.The NHTSA recall number is 14V-286.Ford's DIR indicates that loss of power steering assist while driving would require higher steering effort at …

Technical service bulletins

78 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2011 Explorer. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 16equipment 14electrical system 10visibility 7body and frame 6suspension 4transmission 4equipment adaptive/mobility 3
19N05Service campaignJun 24, 2019engine

Customer Satisfaction Program 19N05: Certain 2011-2017 Model Year Explorer Vehicles - Carbon Monoxide Concern

CSP-12M02Warranty extensionJan 14, 2013equipment

FORD/LINCOLN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. INFORMATION REGARDING EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR COVERING ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. MODELS 2011-2013 EDGE, EXPLORER, MKX, FOCUS, ESCAPE, FLEX, FUSION, TAURUS, MKS, MKT, MKZ, F-150, F-SUPER DUTY. *PE

CSP-12M01Warranty extensionMar 6, 2012equipment

FORD/LINCOLN: WARRANTY EXTENSION HAS BEEN PROVIDED FOR CERTAIN MODEL VEHICLES WITH ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE (APIM OR SYNC MODULE) TO 4 (FOUR) YEARS ON FORD AND 5 (FIVE) YEARS ON LINCOLN VEHICLES REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE AND SUBSEQUENT OWNERS ARE AUTOMATICALLY COVERED. *PE

SSM 46210Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 17, 2016steering

SOME 2010-2016 EPAS EQUIPPED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT STEERING RELATED NOISES. THE WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM) DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN SECTION 211-02. WHEN DIAGNOSING AND REPAIRING EPAS STEERING NOISES USE THE UPDATED PROCEDURES.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Steering
Filed Oct 28, 2026NC

Estaba estacionado poniendo gas a mi exprorer y cuando la encendí el volante se puso muy duro y me marco el código P07AE-09 y también apareció falla en el sistema de dirección asistida.

Steering
Filed Sep 6, 2026KY

Car has a history of showing a P07AE-09 code in the power steering control module. When the code logs in the computer the car loses power steering assist while driving causing the steering to be hard to turn. Upon researching the cars recall work we seen that the car had the power steering control module software updated but no steering gear changed. My wife and children ride in this car and I'm afraid that this is going to cause a serious accident.

Steering
Filed Aug 29, 2026IN

I am reporting a serious safety concern involving my 2011 Ford Explorer, VIN [XXX]. After recently filling the vehicle with fuel, I went to drive it and received a “Power Steering Assist Fault” message on the dashboard. The vehicle then lost power steering assistance, making the steering extremely difficult and requiring significantly more effort to control. The vehicle was inspected by a repair shop, and I was advised that the power steering/steering gear requires replacement at an estimated cost of $2,126.43. Because of the loss of steering assistance, I believe the vehicle is unsafe to drive and presents a serious safety risk, particularly during turns or emergency maneuvers. I understand that Ford previously recalled certain 2011–2013 Ford Explorers under NHTSA Recall 14V-286 (Ford Recall 14S06) for a defect involving the electric power steering gear that could result in loss of power steering assist. The symptoms I am experiencing appear very similar to the defect described in that recall. My vehicle does not appear to be covered by the existing recall based on its VIN. I am requesting that NHTSA review my vehicle and this failure to determine whether it should be included in the recall or whether additional action is warranted. I can provide the VIN, repair estimate, diagnostic information, photographs, and any other documentation needed. Thank you for investigating this potentially dangerous safety defect. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM O

Steering
Filed Jul 31, 2026CO

On Friday 7/24/2026, I was driving and all the sudden my steering went out. Dash flashed No Power Steering Assist / AdvanTrac System Fail. I pulled over immediately to turn around & get home with zero power steering. The amount of strength to steer/control was extreme. To turn was almost impossible. I took my car to Ford AutoNation on Arapahoe in Centennial on 7/27/26, they ran full diagnostics & it came back that the car suffered a hard internal failure (DTC U3000) of the electronic Power Steering Control Module, creating an immediate, dangerous loss of steering assist while driving. This vehicle was subject to Federal Safety Recall 14S06 (NHTSA Campaign 14V286000). According to official Ford OASIS data, Ford attempted to remedy this safety defect in 2014 using a software reflash shortcut (Labor Code 14S06A) rather than replacing the physical defective hardware. I have a text (via their service dept) from the service manager as well stating "it was a reflash" when I asked which labor code was done under the 14S06; "was it the software reflash or the full rack replacement?". I have a formal case with Ford Corporate created 7/31/26, and have that number as well. IBecause Ford's software patch completely failed to prevent the component's internal hardware failure, the original federally mandated safety defect remains active, unresolved, and dangerous in this chassis. Ford Corporate is refusing to honor the recall remedy because the vehicle is past an arbitrary 10-year limit on

Electrical System
Filed Jul 31, 2026NJ

The power steering has fully stopped working , the car cannot be steered, this started to happen on the road, I had to steer the entire weight of the car myself, at fast speed it was difficult but not impossible, at slow speed and zero speed or while the vehicle is stationary it was impossible or unmovable to steer. there were no warning lamps about this, the Ford dealer has not detect this in my vehicle's previous recall, further vehicle has two more recalls this year, that have been cited this year by the dealer. this needs to be addressed on their recalls because this can cause a very severe problem on the road

Steering
Filed Jul 20, 2026140,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the message "Power Steering Assist Fault" was displayed and the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred after starting the vehicle, and the steering wheel locked up. The dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V286000 (Steering) and 14E001000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Steering
Filed Jul 2, 2026199,455 milesLA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from the vehicle and the steering wheel started shaking. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V286000 (STEERING); but the repair failed to fix the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 199,455.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 22, 2026CO

The pillar covers fell of the vehicle when driving last week. Both plastic covers are on the side of the interstate. I was told and found there is a recall for the clips on these covers, but when I searched, they are not listed for this vehicle. There appears to be an issue with this recall and the explorer.

Structure
Filed Jun 16, 2026CA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the dealer and manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the trim piece was almost detached. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Engine
Filed Jun 15, 2026OH

While stopped at a stop sign my engine suddenly died, before restarting a low oil pressure light came on but went out immediately. I was approximately 40 miles from home when I got to my destination. The car was showing no signs of issues, no warning lights or errors. When I went back out to start it and head home it would not start. I had to pay additional expense beyond my insurance road side coverage due to the distance. I have had an independent mechanic going over the vehicle since it died. Starter has been replaced because it appeared to be the issue. (the original was bad) Once replaced while attempting to start it he found out the engine had locked up. I bought the vehicle March 30, 2026 & this happened on June 10, 2026. The vehicle had 132,344 miles on it when bought and 135,716 when it seized up. After looking through other reports I have found this to be a reported issue.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 5, 2026PA

I contacted chapman ford in phila to have the recall corrected and it has been almost 2 yrs and no parts or follow up. They told me for months that the parts were backordered. My trim is loose and the rubber around my windshield almost gone. I also contacted ford main and was told an advisor would follow up and they did not.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 4, 20261,000,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the passenger's side exterior A-Pillar Applique Trim detached. The contact stated that the exterior A-Pillar Applique Trim was flapping and hitting the ground. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The contact was advised to remove the detached exterior A-Pillar Applique Trim. The contact received a recall notification, NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure) however the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1000,000.

Structure › Body
Filed May 27, 2026SD

In early 2024, we learned our 2011 Ford Explorer was under open recall (NHTSA #24V031) for the A-pillar windshield trim, which could detach and create a road hazard. For two years, our Ford dealer said repairs could not be done due to parts availability. The A-pillar trim detached three separate times, including once at 75 mph on a highway, causing fear and danger. The vehicle’s elderly owner stopped driving for safety. On May 26, 2026, a non-Ford mechanic attempted a repair due to the delay at Ford, but the part broke during that attempt. The recall remains incomplete, and we have ongoing safety concerns, out-of-pocket expenses, and no timeline for a real fix.

Steering
Filed May 21, 2026CA

Vehicle is very hard to steer, will not reset when restarting the vehicle. two dash messages; advance track warning and power assist failure. I have not attempted to drive on road due to difficulty of steering the wheel. I am afraid the vehicle is uncontrollable at this point and needs to be towed to a repair facility. Not sure if this incident is linked to the recall under 14S06 for ford recalls.

Visibility
Filed May 15, 2026227,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that after parking in the garage and turning the engine off, approximately 5 minutes later a loud noise came from the rear of the vehicle. The contact discovered that the rear hatch window had exploded and glass shards fell into the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not determined. The contact indicated that at the time of the failure the rear window defroster was not activated. The manufacturer and local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 227,000.

Steering
Filed Apr 27, 2026270,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The message that the "Vehicle Needed Attention" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to back to the residence. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 270,000.

Structure
Filed Apr 20, 2026135,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the A-pillar trim clip detached, and the vehicle was taken to the local dealer where a temporary repair was performed using tape to secure the trim. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 135,000.

Steering
Filed Apr 13, 2026FL

The steering wheel got stiff and impossible to turn. I had to use extreme force to be able to make a left turn. It happened in a large intersection. No warning appeared.

Steering
Filed Mar 26, 2026160,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became extremely stiff. The steering wheel was extremely difficult to turn. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,000.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Mar 23, 2026200,000 milesLA

The contact owned a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, turned off, and unoccupied, the vehicle caught fire. The contact was in her residence, and a neighbor knocked on her door, making her aware that the vehicle had caught fire. The fire has been extinguished by the local fire department. The fire department indicated that the failure may have occurred due to a wiring malfunction in the vehicle. A police report was not filed, but a fire report was filed and was unavailable. There were no injuries reported. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.

Structure
Filed Mar 23, 2026116,035 milesSC

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side A-pillar trim on the windshield started to detach. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired, and the dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The approximate failure mileage was 116,035.

Steering
Filed Mar 17, 2026TX

The electrical power steering stopped working while in motion was real hard to steer and avoid hitting curbs or vehicles close to our vehicle. It was previously replaced by Ford for the same reason but now it happened again and they are telling me it doesn’t have warranty which is fine but if i buy the part which is not cheap by the way it just going to keep failing after a few years.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 26, 2026TN

Back up camera inoperable. Screen is black. Apparently a common problem. Safety issue of hitting a person or object.

Power Train
Filed Feb 13, 2026AZ

During a red-light, as I was coming to a stop, the vehicle gave the warning saying “service power-steering now” and “traction control off.” I was unable to turn the steering wheel much due to it being so heavy. My official complaint: Vehicle: 2011 Ford Escape XLT Safety Recall: NHTSA Campaign Number 14V284000 (Ford Recall 14S05) Issue: Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist (EPS) / Steering Torque Sensor Fault I am submitting this complaint regarding an unresolved safety defect involving my 2011 Ford Escape XLT. This vehicle is subject to a federally recognized safety recall for loss of electric power steering assist: NHTSA Campaign Number 14V284000, Ford Recall 14S05, which involves the electric power steering (EPS) system and steering torque sensor faults that can cause the vehicle to suddenly lose steering assist. The safety issue covered under this recall is still present and represents an ongoing risk. The vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, which makes the steering wheel extremely difficult to turn and increases the risk of a crash, especially at lower speeds, in traffic, or during turns. On February 13, 2026, I had a scheduled appointment at Kingman Ford (Arizona) at 3:00 PM specifically to address this safety recall issue and the continuing steering assist problem. Kingman Ford declined service and refused to perform any recall-related repair, stating they could not provide service related to the recall. After the dealership refusal, I contacted Ford

Steering
Filed Feb 5, 2026180,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or the right. The steering wheel seized, and the steering wheel symbol was displayed on the instrument cluster. The vehicle was turned off and restarted to reset the steering assist function. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the electric power steering assist system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V286000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Power Train
Filed Jan 12, 2026CA

The wheel locks in low speeds. It does not happen often, maybe about 3 times per year. I have brought this up to Ford dealer in Encinitas CA for several years and the problem is seldom that they did not find anything wrong with it. Recently I found the recall online and brought it to their attention. I never received the notice of recall back in 2015. They are refusing service because it has been more than 10 yrs since the recall and my vehicle is at 180,000 miles. I use the car to carpool my kids and other people's kids. Please help fix the problem.

Steering
Filed Jan 2, 2026200,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, the power steering suddenly failed while attempting to make a right turn, causing the steering wheel to seize. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact turned off the vehicle and followed the owner's manual instructions on how to reset the power steering; however, all attempts failed. The contact left the vehicle parked at the incident location. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

Steering
Filed Dec 31, 2025NM

Loss of power steering

Steering
Filed Dec 14, 2025MI

My vehicle is subject to NHTSA Safety Recall 14S06 related to loss of electric power steering assist. The Power Steering Control Module was reprogrammed in 2014, and Ford now considers the recall closed based on that reprogramming. In 2025, the vehicle again experienced loss of electric power steering assist and currently exhibits the EPAS diagnostic trouble code associated with the recall defect. This condition has been verified by a Ford dealer. On November 13, 2025, the dealer attempted reprogramming of the steering control module as a diagnostic and customer service step to determine whether reprogramming would resolve the condition. This attempt did not correct the defect, and the loss of steering assist persists. Supplement 3 to Recall 14S06, issued in 2019, includes a Dealer Q&A section (Attachment 4, Question 3) that specifically addresses what happens if a customer experiences loss of steering assist after the module has been reprogrammed. Ford’s guidance states that any subsequent loss of assist after reprogramming may be eligible for extended coverage under a related program. This guidance acknowledges that reprogramming alone may not prevent recurrence of the defect and that further corrective action may be required when the loss of assist returns. Despite this acknowledgment, Ford has denied further remedy solely because the recall is marked “closed” in its internal system and because the vehicle exceeds the time and mileage limits of customer satisfaction progra

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 12, 2025NC

Loose/Detached Bilateral Exterior C-Pillar around the rear window. Both sides are lifted and very loose with the potential to cause driver to lose control if detached resulting in damage to other vehicles on the road or even a traffic collision… this is a safety defect

Steering
Filed Dec 12, 2025193,000 milesKS

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was a grinding sound coming from the steering column while making left and right turns. Additionally, the contact stated that the steering wheel jerked while driving and making left or right turns. The contact stated that three unknown warning lights were illuminated, and the traction control warning light was also illuminated. Additionally, there are unknown messages displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but the diagnosis was unknown. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 193,000.

Structure
Filed Dec 2, 202552,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure). The contact became aware that the passenger’s and driver's side A-pillar trims had started to crack, and the pieces were loose. The contact used tape to secure the A-pillar trims. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the remedy was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

Steering
Filed Dec 2, 2025MO

I was driving to Independence missouri and the power steering went out, it was difficult to steer and if I was going slow enough I could not turn the wheel at all. There was an alert that popped up stating power steering fault. My mechanic reset the code and it was fixed for about 30 minutes before coming back on. I took it to a Ford dealership in chillicothe missouri and they had to reset the entire module and reprogram it. This fixed the issue for about 2 weeks and it is now doing the same thing as before. I paid $150 for an hour of labor plus diagnostic. I am expecting to take it back to the dealership on 12/3 for the same issue.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 20, 2025FL

Unknown

Structure
Filed Nov 14, 2025CA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Expedition. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that for two years, the dealer was repeatedly contacted; however, the contact was informed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that the parts were not available. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Steering
Filed Nov 12, 2025WV

Loss of power steering

Steering
Filed Nov 11, 2025OH

While driving power steering stopped working. Thankfully I was able to pull my vehicle over without incident. My vehicle has not been inspected as of yet by the dealership as I am on SSD called the dealership and the cost is $139.00 to run the diagnostic. Warning lights kicked on as soon as it happened. This was originally supposed to be remedied in recall 15N01 EPAS. I called the dealership and the cost for repair on this issue is extremely expensive compared to what I still owe on my explorer. Updated to show images of what was scanned, which falls under the recall from 2015. I still owe $2800.00n on this vehicle and repairs will cost more than what is owed. I've called Ford and they pretty much do not care

Steering
Filed Nov 1, 2025NJ

Steering wheel locked up when I tried to restart car

Steering
Filed Nov 1, 2025OH

While driving power steering stopped working. Thankfully I was able to pull my vehicle over without incident. My vehicle has not been inspected as of yet by the dealership as I am on SSD called the dealership and the cost is $139.00 to run the diagnostic. Warning lights kicked on as soon as it happened. This was originally supposed to be remedied in recall 15N01 EPAS. I called the dealership and the cost for repair on this issue is extremely expensive compared to what I still owe on my explorer.

Steering
Filed Oct 28, 2025OH

Power steering stopped working while driving

SuspensionCrash
Filed Oct 26, 2025WI

I had a recall on my 2011 Ford explorer for toe Links and bushings. Since ever since this has been going on I have gone through 38 tires in the rear in the past two years alone no shop will fix my car because the camber is so out of whack I have to have the whole rear suspension redone again when it should have been fixed the first time with the recall link Ford spent 5 minutes going through my car and said that my car didn't qualify for any recall because my car is a front wheel drive and not an all-wheel drive so they did not do the recall now after bringing it to another shop I have the estimate of what it would cost to fix that needs to be done it is an emergency because when I hit a pothole I go in the ditch my friend and his smashed because I can't control my car my steering freezes while driving down the highway and this all has something to do with the rear suspension five Star automotive wrote down everything that needs to be replaced this is a hazard to be on the road, if I could afford another car I would have one I keep sinking money into this one, because of Link Ford and their mistake me and my car should not have to suffer for it or anyone else on the road because this is a hazard my car is going to kill someone if I would have had the recall replaced, I wouldn't have had to spend an additional $1,400 on parts and labor that never even got put in because they can't put them in until this is repaired I can't even get a front end alignment because of this the ent

Structure
Filed Oct 23, 2025MS

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar trim on the driver’s side windshield started to detach. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 24V031000 (Structure) and 21V746000 (Suspension); however, the parts to perform the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available and were on back order. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 17, 2025MI

My recall 24S02 has not been fixed, Exterior A-Pillar applique. I have been sent 2 letters dated Feb 2024 & July 2024 about this recall, today is 10-17-2025. My dealership is LaFontaine BIrch Run Mi is very good, Ford customer service on the other hand is very very poor. I have been chasing down this recall for over 18 months. When I finally got a hold of someone at Ford's customer service, they [XXX] ) transferred me to my dealership to resolve. The dealership can't make this part. Ridiculous. No one or no incident so far has happened. How long does a car manufacturer have to manufacture parts to complete the recall?? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Structure
Filed Oct 17, 2025GA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Steering
Filed Sep 24, 2025OK

I was driving home with my 3 kids in the car when all of the sudden I lost control of steering this happened in January of 2024 I have since managed to deal with driving with no power steering but when I had it hooked up to diagnostics they told me it was EPS module. I don’t have the money to fix this so I manage to drive without it but it sucks.

Structure
Filed Sep 22, 2025125,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the passenger’s side A-pillar trim flew off the vehicle. A local dealer was notified of the failure; however, the contact was informed that parts for the recall repair were unavailable. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Structure
Filed Sep 15, 2025KY

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Structure
Filed Aug 25, 2025WV

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V301000 (Structure) in February 2024. The contact had been calling a dealer for several months but was informed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was contacted for parts availability and was informed that parts were anticipated by April 2025. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Structure
Filed Aug 22, 2025120,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar trim on both sides of the windshield started to detach. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the A-pillar trims needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the parts for the repair would not be available until December. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

Structure
Filed Aug 15, 2025120,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that upon further inspection, the front driver’s side and passenger’s side A-pillar trims were loosened. The contact used super glue to perform a temporary repair. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 1,198, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2002
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270100Routine
2026441400Routine
20251072000Routine
2024211010Routine
20231131520Routine
20222712410Above average
20214522660Above average
20201,24933100Above average
2019300600Above average
2018734770Above average
20171,70414110Above average
20162,46515140Above average
20151,814910Above average
20141,684762Fatalities reported
20132,23712111Fatalities reported
2012830760Above average
2011 — this page1,198840Above average
2010115200Routine
200933100Routine
2008148330Routine
2007208352Fatalities reported
2006630470Above average
2005497361Fatalities reported
20041,3044150High concern
20031,1317102Fatalities reported
20023,29510575Fatalities reported
200137512216Fatalities reported
200095215644Fatalities reported
19991,34815444Fatalities reported
19981,9591410216Fatalities reported
19971,731125334Fatalities reported
19961,450113751Fatalities reported
199584312328Fatalities reported
19941,20778220Fatalities reported
19939399481Fatalities reported
19926337634Fatalities reported
199160911634Fatalities reported
199012010Routine

Compare every Explorer year →

2011 Ford Explorer: questions buyers ask

Is the 2011 Ford Explorer a good car?

It is not among the Explorer years to avoid. Owners filed 1,198 complaints, against about 939 for a typical Explorer year. The most common complaint is about the steering (57%).

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Ford Explorer?

The steering: 686 of the 1,198 complaints (57%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (36%), sets off warning lights on the dash (35%) and loses power (21%). The typical report comes at 67,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2011 Ford Explorer have?

8 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jan 19, 2024. The largest, 24V031000, covered 1,889,110 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2011 Ford Explorer problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 70,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 67,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2011 Ford Explorer?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, PE23001 ("Windshield trim molding Item detachment"), was opened Jan 27, 2023 and closed Feb 8, 2024.

Are there service bulletins for the 2011 Ford Explorer?

The manufacturer filed 78 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (16), the electrical system (10) and the visibility (7). They include a service campaign, 19N05, filed Jun 24, 2019. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jan 19, 2024. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.