2020 Ford Explorer Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners report frequent failures with the back over prevention system in the 2020 Ford Explorer, primarily involving the rearview camera. Common symptoms include the camera screen turning blue or black, displaying a frozen or foggy image, or failing to display any image at all. These issues often persist even after recall repairs, with many complaints noting unresolved problems or unavailable parts for further repairs. The problems are reported across a wide range of mileages, from as low as 500 miles to over 100,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as four complaints involve crashes due to the camera's failure to provide a clear view, which could be a critical consideration for potential buyers.

Owners of the 2020 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with the engine shutting off unexpectedly, often while the vehicle is stopped or in motion, and without any warning lights. Complaints also commonly describe problems with catalytic converters failing, which sometimes results in exhaust leaks into the passenger compartment. Transmission issues, such as slipping gears and harsh shifting, are noted, particularly around the 66,000 to 120,000-mile range. Safety concerns are highlighted by reports of vehicles stalling in traffic and one instance involving a fire hazard due to a failed weld on the exhaust. These patterns suggest potential risks for buyers considering a used 2020 Ford Explorer, particularly those with higher mileage.

Owners of the 2020 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with the service brakes, particularly involving electronic brake booster failures and ABS warning lights. Common symptoms include the brake pedal losing pressure, the vehicle rolling unexpectedly despite the brake being engaged, and multiple warning lights illuminating on the dashboard. These issues often occur around 20,000 to 60,000 miles, based on reports. Safety implications are significant, as some complaints involve crashes, with four reported incidents resulting in five injuries. Buyers should be aware of these brake-related problems and the potential for loss of vehicle control.

Owners report several structural issues with the 2020 Ford Explorer, primarily involving water leaks and trim problems. Multiple complaints describe water entering the cabin through the sunroof drains and windshield seals, leading to mold growth and potential allergic reactions. Trim issues are also noted, with reports of exterior trim detaching, which in one instance caused a crash, and interior door handle chrome peeling, resulting in injuries. These problems commonly emerge around 40,000 to 78,000 miles. Safety implications include impaired visibility due to mold or trim detachment and injuries from sharp edges on interior components.

Owners report frequent issues with the suspension of the 2020 Ford Explorer, primarily involving rear axle fractures and control arm bolt failures. Complaints often describe symptoms such as screeching sounds, excessive swaying at higher speeds, and abnormal noises when driving over potholes. These issues are typically observed around 60,000 to 70,000 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of control, with some reports of accidents and near-misses due to these failures. Buyers should be aware of recurring recalls and repairs related to these components, as multiple owners indicate repeated problems even after service interventions.

Owners of the 2020 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with seat mechanisms, particularly involving second-row seat folding buttons and third-row headrests. Complaints often describe second-row seats folding unexpectedly or failing to lock, with some incidents occurring while children are seated, posing potential safety risks. Third-row headrests commonly fail to stay upright, sometimes hitting passengers' heads, and several reports mention the headrests not locking back into position. These issues typically emerge around 20,000 to 109,000 miles. Notably, one report involves a crash where a driver-side headrest moved unexpectedly, causing an injury. Buyers should be aware of these recurring seat-related problems when considering a used 2020 Ford Explorer.

Owners of the 2020 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with the steering system, including a loose steering wheel bolt and power steering failures. Typical symptoms described include difficulty steering, vibrations, and swaying at highway speeds. Complaints often mention warning lights related to steering assist and other vehicle systems. Some reports indicate these problems occur around 17,000 to 67,900 miles. Safety implications are notable, with one crash and three injuries reported, highlighting potential risks of steering failure while driving. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be cautious and consider having the steering system thoroughly inspected.