Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Ford Explorer
The 2014 Ford Explorer has moderate complaints and several recalls. Key concerns include steering issues and rear suspension faults due to fractured links and retention problems. With seven recalls and 1,680 complaints, buyer caution is advisable. Evidence for specific problems is limited, so general checks during inspection are recommended.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Ford Explorer has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,684 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 #21V537000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V675000 Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V692000 Link Shaft Brackets May 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 #16V245000 Rear Suspension Toe Link may be Improperly Welded NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 500 complaints
- Unknown or Other 337 complaints
- Structure 276 complaints
- Engine 198 complaints
- Suspension 103 complaints
- Electrical System 100 complaints
Of the 1,684 complaints on file, 32 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 1,684 complaints, owners report 38 injuries and 2 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Toe links may fracture
How to check: Look for signs of uneven tire wear or handling issues.
Loss of steering assist
How to check: Ensure steering operates smoothly without excessive noise.
A-pillar trim detachment
How to check: Examine roof and A-pillar for loose trim pieces.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights staying on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test steering ease and responsiveness.
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess acceleration and transmission shifts.
Red flag: Stuttering or delay during acceleration
- 05
Braking
What to check: Monitor brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or screeching sounds
- 06
Parking
What to check: Notice any suspension noises over bumps.
Red flag: Clunking or knocking from suspension
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the suspension been serviced?
- Are there any steering issues?
- Have recall repairs been completed?
- Is the trim detachment fixed under recall?
- Any electrical issues reported?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title transfer documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Ford Explorer? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.