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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Ford Explorer

The 2020 Ford Explorer has a significant number of recalls, along with over 1,200 owner complaints, primarily in powertrain and electrical systems. While common issues exist, not all vehicles are affected. Ensure thorough checks of recalled systems during inspection.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2020 Ford Explorer has 33 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,248 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 4 NHTSA-tested trims.

Newest 20 recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Power Train 504 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 213 complaints
  • Electrical System 186 complaints
  • Engine 117 complaints
  • Back Over Prevention 104 complaints
  • Service Brakes 81 complaints

Of the 1,248 complaints on file, 37 report a crash and 10 a fire; across all 1,248 complaints, owners report 38 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2020 Ford Explorer

Known issues to inspect

high severitytransmission

Transmission park pawl damage

How to check: Inspect transmission operation during shifts; check for rough transitions.

medium severityelectrical

Rearview camera failures

How to check: Check rearview camera function when reversing.

high severityengine

Engine compartment fires

How to check: Look for leaks and unusual smells around engine.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Check for unusual noises or smoke from engine bay.

    Red flag: Smoke or knocking sounds.

  2. 02

    Initial acceleration

    What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifts in acceleration.

    Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting.

  3. 03

    First braking

    What to check: Press brake to check for vibration or noise.

    Red flag: Vibrations or squealing noises.

  4. 04

    Reversing

    What to check: Test rear camera for clear image display.

    Red flag: Camera distortion or blank screen.

  5. 05

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Monitor acceleration smoothness and power delivery.

    Red flag: Hesitation or lack of power.

  6. 06

    Cruise control use

    What to check: Activate cruise control; ensure steady speed maintenance.

    Red flag: Speed fluctuation or failure to engage.

  7. 07

    Final parking

    What to check: Shift into park; ensure vehicle remains stationary without rolling.

    Red flag: Vehicle rolling after being parked.

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Has the transmission been serviced?
  2. Have recall issues been addressed?
  3. Any recent engine repairs?
  4. Does the rearview camera work properly?
  5. Can I see maintenance records?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Title and registration papers
  • Maintenance records
  • Recall repair receipts
  • Warranty information
  • Accident history report

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Ford Explorer at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2020 Ford Explorer Reliability forecast Ford Explorer reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

Looking at a specific 2020 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.

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