Owners have reported 2 crashes and 5 injuries to NHTSA for the 2019 Ford Explorer. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints125
STRUCTURE
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with exterior trim pieces detaching, particularly the A-pillar and B-pillar trims, and roof rail covers. These problems often occur while driving, leading to abnormal sounds or the parts flying off, which could pose a safety risk if they hit other vehicles. Complaints also highlight delays in obtaining parts for related recall repairs, with some owners noting that the issue persists even after service. The reported failures often occur around 50,000 to 125,000 miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these structural issues and the possible wait times for recall-related repairs.
Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports
Owner complaints33
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners report frequent issues with the A-pillar trim on the 2019 Ford Explorer, with complaints describing the trim detaching or vibrating at highway speeds, potentially posing a safety hazard if it flies off. There are also reports of exhaust fumes entering the cabin, with one incident resulting in carbon monoxide poisoning due to improper welds in the exhaust system. Other complaints include windshield trim deterioration, leading to noise and concerns of windshield detachment, and water entering the rear liftgate, which could affect electrical components. These issues often persist over extended periods, with some owners experiencing delays in receiving repairs or parts, sometimes over a year.
Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports
Owner complaints29
POWER TRAIN
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with the powertrain, particularly related to the transmission and torque converter. Common symptoms include violent jerking during acceleration, shuddering, and a lack of proper acceleration, with some vehicles exhibiting these issues as early as 46,000 miles. Several complaints mention the need for repeated torque converter replacements and full transmission replacements, often resulting in significant out-of-pocket expenses. Safety concerns are evident, with multiple reports of sudden loss of acceleration or power while driving, posing potential hazards in traffic situations. Buyers considering a used 2019 Explorer should be aware of these recurring powertrain issues and the associated repair costs.
Owner complaints15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2019 Ford Explorer. Complaints frequently mention problems with the rear camera and Sync 3 screen, including failures to display, touchscreen inoperability, and Bluetooth connectivity issues, often occurring just outside warranty periods. Horn issues are also common, with multiple owners describing inoperable or insufficiently loud horns, potentially impacting safety. Additionally, some owners experience battery-related problems, such as charge system faults and battery acid leaks, with mileage often around 40,000 to 75,000. These electrical issues may present safety concerns due to impaired visibility and communication capabilities.
Owner complaints11
ENGINE
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer frequently report engine-related issues, with common symptoms including engine shutdowns at highway speeds, loud rattling noises, and abnormal ticking sounds. Several complaints describe the engine failing to start or losing power, often accompanied by illuminated warning lights. Water pump failures leading to significant engine damage and costly repairs are also noted. Mileage at the time of these issues varies, with some occurring as early as 4,500 miles and others around 100,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as multiple reports mention sudden loss of power while driving, which could pose a risk in traffic situations. Additionally, several owners report exhaust and fuel fumes entering the cabin, causing unpleasant odors and potential health concerns.
Owner complaints6
STEERING
Owners report several steering-related issues with the 2019 Ford Explorer, including sudden loss of control and steering wheel seizure. Complaints frequently mention incidents where the vehicle's steering fails without warning, leading to dangerous situations such as crossing multiple lanes or crashing into objects. These issues occur at various mileages, with one report at approximately 56,000 miles resulting in a crash and injuries. Additionally, some owners describe problems with control arms failing, causing significant vehicle damage and steering loss. These steering issues pose safety risks, and potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of sudden steering failures and related repair challenges.
Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 2 injury reports
Owner complaints5
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer report a range of issues related to the fuel/propulsion system, with common complaints involving premature failure of catalytic converters and fuel pump malfunctions. Symptoms frequently described include vehicles failing emissions tests due to catalytic converter issues and stalling or failing to start, often after driving in hot weather or when the vehicle is exposed to direct sunlight. These problems typically occur between 45,000 and 53,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as multiple reports highlight the vehicle stalling in traffic or on highways, posing a potential risk. Buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly regarding the fuel pump and catalytic converter, and may want to verify if any relevant repairs or campaigns have been addressed.
Owner complaints5
SUSPENSION
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer frequently report suspension issues, particularly involving the rear toe link and its associated components. Common symptoms include premature tire wear, loud rattling noises from the rear passenger side, and sudden loss of vehicle control, often leading to fishtailing or pulling to one side. These issues are noted around mileage as high as 46,172. Safety implications are significant, with reports of loss of steering control and potential collisions, though no actual crashes are detailed. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential suspension problems and the associated risks.
Owner complaints5
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Owners report several engine and engine cooling issues with the 2019 Ford Explorer. Common symptoms include unexpected stalling and loss of power at highway speeds, often requiring towing and repairs. Multiple complaints mention engine overheating, with some owners noting antifreeze leaks and failed water pumps, typically around 50,000 to 70,000 miles. White smoke from the exhaust and unusual engine noises are also described, with one case involving supercharger failure. These issues can lead to potential safety concerns, such as sudden deceleration and stalling, which may affect vehicle control.
Owner complaints3
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners of the 2019 Ford Explorer report issues with the service brakes, notably involving brake pedal inoperability and system warnings. Common symptoms include the brake pedal requiring excessive force to function, accompanied by abnormal sounds, and intermittent system warnings for the hill descent, ABS, and road stability controls. These issues are reported around 36,000 miles. Additionally, some owners mention difficulty accessing the brake pedal quickly due to clearance issues under the dashboard. Safety implications include reports of brakes applying independently and potential delayed braking response in emergencies.
