70 complaints reported

2011 Ford Explorer UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.

Reports
70
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
1

Complaint Timeline

Chronological view of owner reports

Feb 2026

Back up camera inoperable. Screen is black. Apparently a common problem. Safety issue of hitting a person or object.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2024
Oct 2025

My recall 24S02 has not been fixed, Exterior A-Pillar applique. I have been sent 2 letters dated Feb 2024 & July 2024 about this recall, today is 10-17-2025. My dealership is LaFontaine BIrch Run Mi is very good, Ford customer service on the other hand is very very poor. I have been chasing down this recall for over 18 months. When I finally got a hold of someone at Ford's customer service, they [XXX] ) transferred me to my dealership to resolve. The dealership can't make this part. Ridiculous. No one or no incident so far has happened. How long does a car manufacturer have to manufacture parts to complete the recall?? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 1969
Aug 2025

Safety Recall 24S02/NHTSA Recall 24V031, this recall hasn’t been fixed until now. The part has been on back order since 2024. It just seems like there’s no solution, it’s always been back order, and I was always advised to call and check back. This has been an ongoing issue, since the recall came out.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2024
Aug 2025

" exterior A pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged." I recieved a safety recall letter July 2024. I called Zeigler Ford dealership for the repair. They scheduled an appointment and inspected it and said they cannot fix it due to unavailable parts from Ford. This has been going on for a year and supposedly they can't get the parts. Pieces of the rubber around my windshield was flapping around and eventually fell off. When I called Ford customer service, they said first I need to get the vehicle inspected to that I told them I already had it inspected. Then they transferred me to the dealership to schedule an inspection which I don't need because it was already done. They just transferred me and did not answer my question as to why it hasn't been fixed yet, and why they are not supplying parts to the dealership. They basically left it to the service technician to tell me again that there are no parts. They want to give people the run around and let them possibly get injured in unsafe vehicles.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2024
Jul 2025

ENGINE CARRIER OR CRADLE RUSTED AND CRACKED CAUSING DRIVERS SIDE A ARM TO MAKE WHEEL UNSTEERABLE PULLNG VEHICLE TO THE LEFT. COULD HAVE CAUSED SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR HEAD ON COLLISION AS IT WAS PULLED INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC LANE. I WAS ABLE TO STEER VEHICLE INTO A PARKING LOT AND HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO MY MECHANIC WHO CONFIRMED THE THE CAUSE WAS BY RUST THROUGH ON SUB FRAME ENGINE CARRIER . COMPONENT WAS NOT INSPECTED BY MFGR ,POLICE OR INSURANCE REP. THERE WERE NO WARNINGS OR ANY SYMPTOMS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. I WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT APPROX 10MPH WHEN I HEARD A SNAP OR CRACK AND LOST CONTROL OF THE STEERING.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2025
Jul 2025

We have been waiting for this part from Ford for over 1 year. I am told by the dealership that they have been limiting the number of parts the dealerships can order. The same dealership order 100 and has only received 5 to date. This is unacceptable. When a part is recalled because of safety it should not be over a year to receive the part. Why are they not being held accountable. My sons car has trip that has fallen off and or flaps in the wind.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2025
Jun 2025

The exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments on my 2011 Ford Explorer have failed, and the part is on backorder due to a recall. This issue prevents me from completing a necessary inspection, as the component cannot be replaced or properly secured until the recall part becomes available. The malfunction poses a safety risk while driving and requires immediate resolution to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy. I urgently need assistance in expediting the repair or receiving an alternative solution so I can complete the required inspection and safely operate my vehicle without further delays

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jun 2025
Apr 2025

Rear camera is black when in reverse. Warning beeps still work properly. Truck has 102k miles, started being issue at 97k miles. Ford says repair is 6 weeks out until tech available. Keep getting runaround. I started asking for repair over 6 months ago. Reporting this because many models have had this issue as a recall. The 2011 Explorer should be included in this recall. #2 issue. A pillar recall also slow walking. I've had mine inspected, it is damaged, approved to replace, now waiting on parts. Have been calling every 2-3 weeks for 6 months. Still say no parts. I will call your 800 number to report this.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2024
Mar 2025

Back up camera has not worked for the last 4 years.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2021
Feb 2025

When the vehicle is put in reverse, the backup camera blacks out and if it comes back on, the picture is reversed horizontally. This is causing a hazard when backing up as the camera shows what's actually on the left side to be on the right and vice versa. There are many recalls for the same complaint of Ford's back up system, yet nothing has been addressed for the 2011 model. Thank you!

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2025
Jan 2025

When I contacted my local dealership I was notified there was a recall for the power steering. However the recall was only good until 150,000 miles. Yet I have owned this vehicle for 2 years and NEVER BEEN CONTACTED

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2025
Jan 2025

Back up camera. when back up is engaged, picture on backup monitor is reversed, left becomes right and and right becomes left. This happened ab out two months ago and will happen every time shift is placed in reverse. This is a safety issue and particularly for my wife because she always depends on the back up camera. Yesterday I inquired with my local Ford Dealer, but they informed me that there is no recall by Ford for my model (They told me that there is one for the 2023 year and up for failing back up camera, but this even worse, because when the camera fails, it's known right away that you have to depend on the side and review mirrors. Please advise

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Aug 2024
Nov 2024

Complaint Regarding Lack of Recall Parts Availability for Manufacturer Recall Number: 24S02, NHTSA Recall Number: 24V031 Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to formally report an issue regarding the unavailability of parts necessary to complete the safety recall repair for my 2011 Ford Explorer. The recall in question is Manufacturer Recall Number: 24S02, NHTSA Recall Number: 24V031, concerning the detachment of the A-pillar applique trim. Despite being notified that parts are available, I have been unable to find a Ford dealership in my area (Brentwood, CA 94513) or the broader Bay Area that has the required parts to perform the recall repair. I have contacted multiple dealerships over the past three months, and each has informed me that Ford has not supplied them with the parts needed to resolve this issue. This lack of resolution is alarming, as the detachment of the A-pillar trim panel while driving has already posed a significant safety hazard. The original panel flew off into traffic, endangering other road users, and a temporary panel continues to detach while driving. Ford's inability to supply the necessary parts leaves this critical safety issue unresolved and puts myself and others on the road at continued risk. I respectfully request the NHTSA to investigate this matter and ensure that Ford complies with their obligation to provide the necessary parts for this recall repair. Additionally, I would appreciate any guidance on further steps I can take to ensure my vehicle is repaired promptly and safely. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2024
Nov 2024

While driving the B pillar broke and flew off. Now I have it taped up so nothing will get into my car (like rain) and so nothing else falls off.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jun 2024
Jul 2024

The recall for my 2011 Ford Explorer (Manufacturer Recall Number: 24S02, NHTSA Recall Number: 24V031) remains unresolved because Ford has not supplied the necessary parts to local dealerships, despite the official recall documentation stating, "Parts are now available to repair your vehicle." Ford claims to have authorized dealers to inspect and repair any loose or missing exterior A-pillar trim moldings free of charge, including parts and labor. However, this claim is false, as no dealership I’ve contacted in the Bay Area, including those near Brentwood, CA, has received the required parts to perform the repair. The A-pillar trim on my vehicle has already detached while driving, creating a road hazard for other vehicles and posing a serious safety risk. Additionally, the lack of a permanent fix is exposing my vehicle to potential water and moisture damage. I have contacted multiple Ford dealerships over the past three months, as well as Ford’s Customer Relationship Center, and all have confirmed that the recall parts are not available. Ford’s inability to fulfill its stated remedy has left me without a solution, prolonging the safety risk and potential vehicle damage. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate Ford’s handling of this recall and compel them to supply the necessary parts to dealerships so that the repair can be completed as promised. This is a critical safety issue that requires immediate resolution. The A-pillar trim has detached from my vehicle while driving, creating a road hazard for other drivers. Additionally, the continued lack of repair risks water and moisture entering my vehicle, potentially causing further damage and compromising its safety. No, Ford has not been able to inspect or repair the vehicle because the necessary parts are unavailable, despite their claim that parts are ready. No warnings were present before the A-pillar trim detached while driving.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jan 2024
Feb 2024

I have a recall 24V031 letter dated February 2024. I called and got an appointment for 7 Aug, showed up at the dealership, just to get turnaround and was told that they don’t have the glue to fix the recall. No phone calls or text received to let me know that my appointment was canceled due to this problem. I was told that they will call me back, once glue is received. It’s now 2 Oct, still no calls, so I called them back. I was told that this is still an issue and that they’re still waiting for the glue to come in. They have added my name to a “Wait list”, and we’ll be notified once they’re ready to fix the recall issue. I don’t understand how long are we supposed to wait for this? Is there something I can do to fix this problem? Please advise. Thank you.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Jul 2024
Dec 2023

Daughter drives this vehicle to college...4hrs via highway. On a recent trip home, her passenger side windshield trim flew off and nearly it the car behind her. I gave her a hard time about not stopping to pick it up but you can't just do that on the interstate. Looking around, we see lots of Ford Explorers with missing windshield trim. The rubber windshield seal underneath looks in bad shape now and I'm concerned that it could fail allowing the whole windshield glass to separate from the car. Love for you to come and inspect the vehicle. There were no warning lights or messages letting us know there was a problem before the trim separated but we obviously know there is a problem based on the numerous examples we see on the road. Please have Ford address this with a recall. It is unacceptable that this part fails so regularly on Ford Explorers.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Oct 2023
May 2023

Front left window trim coming off.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Oct 2023
May 2023

2011 Ford Explorer - trim around the windshield has separated and pieces have disconnected when driving. Sections become loose and are slapping the windows which is a driving distraction. Will windshield be secure if trim around edges comes off?

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Oct 2023
Jan 2023

I read an article about Ford Explorers and the windshield trim panels coming off. I have had to replace both sides of mine....they didn't fly off but would have if not tended too. The rubber part underneath broke into several pieces and some were missing...who knows where they went. I had to replace both sides....at my own expense....

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Dec 2022
Apr 2022

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, she noticed that water had leaked from the front passenger’s side of the windshield onto the glove compartment and floorboard of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that they could not determine the cause of the failure. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring increasingly whenever it rained. The contact stated that the instrument panel control buttons, the dashboard lights, and the rearview camera had failed to work as designed. The contact also received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V746000 (Suspension) however, the dealer informed the contact that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: May 2021
Nov 2021

While driving with my 2 minor daughters a high-temperature light came on and then seconds later low pressure and engine light came on. Suddenly my 2011 Ford Explorer engine turned off and stopped in the middle of two busy highways stranding us. Towed to an auto shop where I was informed that the water pump bearing had come apart got into the engine and caused the timing chain to jump time. Now my 2011 Ford Explorer does not work and a replacement engine was going to cost $7700 plus the labor and work to tear it down which would exceed the almost $10,000 value of the vehicle. All over the internet, all I see is water pump/engine defaults for the same reason. This is obviously an ongoing issue that needs further investigation and mandatory replacements. Stranding us in the center of the highway was dangerous enough that my towing insurance told me to call the police because of where we were stranded not to mention my vehicle that is had zero issues is now nonoperational and has left me with a catastrophic financial and mobile deficit.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Oct 2021
Nov 2021

My 2011 Ford Explorer has been leaking water into everything including the console, seat belts, down the doors and staying inside the doors, into the spare tire storage area, and down all sides of the interior. The water leaks so badly that at times I've had more than an inch of water on the floor boards of my vehicle. The only thing that has permanently stopped working is the motor that controls the moonroof. I have no idea where the water is coming from and this is causing concern as the water is getting into all aspects of my vehicle including electrical areas. My research indicates that it could be many different places but I also seeing 10s of thousands of complaints from Explorer owners about this problem.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Nov 2021
Jun 2021

I recently purchased this 2011 Ford Explorer. I was driving on the interstate and the suv started feeling like a boat floating in water. The swaying felt like the front and rear suspension was not connected somehow. I immediately removed my foot from the gas and tapped my brakes to slow. It felt as though I would lose control of the vehicle. The swaying wasn’t noticeable until you reached speeds above 50 initially. The suv would be ok on some days. But I drive and hour to work each way and it’s highway. Now I am noticing the sway at lower speeds as well. I am having it checked out by an alignment mechanic shop. But since this started, we have seen many things written about this problem in forums and FORD actually had some recalls.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Sep 2021
Nov 2020

I HAVE A 2011 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED, AT RANDOM TIMES WHILE DRIVING IT WILL MAKE A GRINDING NOISE, THE VEHICLE WILL SLOW DOWN AND THEN THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS WILL FLASH. IF THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS STOP FLASHING THE VEHICLE WILL PICK UP SPEED AND DRIVE NORMAL BUT IF THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT CONTINUES TO FLASH FOR A LONG TIME EVENTUALLY THE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM WILL DISABLE AND THEN THE WARNINGS LIGHTS WILL SAY SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC AND COLLISION WARNING MALFUNCTION WARNING. IF I LET THE VEHICLE SIT FOR HOURS IT MAY RESET BUT IT HAS CONTINUED TO DO SO AT RANDOM TIMES AND SPEED. *TR

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2011 FORD EXPLORER, Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Incident: Feb 2020

Trend Over Time

Complaints by year

Quick Summary

The 2011 Ford Explorer has 70 UNKNOWN OR OTHER complaints on file. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.