Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Ford Explorer
The 2013 Ford Explorer has a high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning steering, fuel systems, and suspension. These issues warrant caution and thorough inspection. Recalls are primarily related to safety-critical components, indicating potential vulnerabilities. Buyers should be vigilant, as the evidence suggests multiple and compounded concerns. Documentation is crucial to verify that recall repairs have been performed.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Ford Explorer has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 2,237 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V031000 Exterior A-Pillar Trim May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V746000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V537000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V675000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V435000 Rear Suspension Toe Links May Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17E048000 Hub Unit Bearing may Allow Wheel Detachment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V812000 Fuel Delivery Module may Crack and Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V171000 Interior Door Handle Return Spring may Unseat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V286000 Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V270000 Child Safety Lock may become Deactivated NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V227000 Fuel Delivery Module may Crack And Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V109000 Fuel Tank may Leak at Seam NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 836 complaints
- Structure 439 complaints
- Unknown or Other 345 complaints
- Engine 225 complaints
- Electrical System 163 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 120 complaints
Of the 2,237 complaints on file, 44 report a crash and 11 a fire; across all 2,237 complaints, owners report 61 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Power steering failure
How to check: Inspect for inconsistent steering and warning lights.
Rear suspension fracture
How to check: Check rear suspension components for stress fractures or damage.
Door latches malfunction
How to check: Operate all doors to check latch functionality.
Fuel system leaks
How to check: Look for fuel odor or leaks near fuel tank.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or pinging sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Feel for steering heaviness or stickiness.
Red flag: Inconsistent steering assist
- 04
Moderate acceleration
What to check: Listen for engine revving inconsistencies.
Red flag: Revving without acceleration
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Observe for wheel vibrations or instability.
Red flag: Significant steering vibration
- 06
Braking
What to check: Check for brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Grinding or delayed braking response
- 07
Parking
What to check: Ensure smooth operation of all door handles.
Red flag: Inoperative door handles
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recall repairs been completed?
- Has the steering system been serviced?
- Are there any unresolved fuel leaks?
- Have you experienced suspension issues?
- Are there service records for regular maintenance?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Ford Explorer? Check the actual car
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