The 2013 Ford Explorer has 11 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 2,237 complaints with NHTSA, including 44 crashes, 11 fires, 61 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Steering (841 reports).
2013 Ford Explorer recalls
Trim on A-pillar may detach and fall off
The A-pillar trim retention clips on certain Explorers may not be properly engaged, which can allow the trim piece to come loose and detach from the vehicle.
Rear Suspension Part May Seize and Break, Causing Loss of Steering
Certain 2011-2013 Ford Explorers in specific Northeastern, Midwestern and Mid-Atlantic states may have a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part in the rear suspension that could seize.
Rear toe link can break from road salt, risking loss of steering
Road salt can corrode the cross-axis ball joint in the rear suspension of certain 2013-2017 Ford Explorers registered in the Northeast, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and parts of the South.
Rear Toe Link Can Break, Risking Loss of Steering
Certain 2013-2017 Ford Explorers in specific Northeastern, Midwestern and Mid-Atlantic states that were previously repaired under an earlier recall may have a rear suspension toe link with a fracture-prone outboard section.
Rear Toe Links Can Fracture, Causing Sudden Handling Loss
The rear suspension toe links on these Explorers may fracture because of stress on the rear suspension.
Fuel Leak Can Cause Fire in 2013 Ford Models
A fuel delivery module in certain 2013 Ford Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles may crack, allowing gasoline to leak.
Door May Unlatch in Side Crash
The interior door handle return spring can become unseated, so the handle does not return fully to its stowed position after use.
Most common 2013 Ford Explorer problems
Problem areas named in the 2,237 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Steering | 841 |
| Structure | 440 |
| Unknown Or Other | 345 |
| Engine | 225 |
| Electrical System | 163 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 120 |
| Power Train | 119 |
| Suspension | 79 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 68 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 45 |
What owners report
Power Steering failure extremely hard to turn when in low speeds, recall on other explorers for same year
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front passengerâs side A-pillar trim had detached. The local dealer confirmed the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
My 2013 Explorer is under recall for A-pillar trim on the front windshield. I check with my dealer monthly and they sat they have not heard a word from Ford. It has been over a year! And my trim is already failing. Ford needs to be investigated !!!
The water pump on these explorers are internal and if not caught by a professional in time, the water pump will fail and cause catastrophic engine failure
The steering rack limiter on the passenger side dislodged itself and got caught on the rack and pinion teeth causing my wheel to get stuck
2013 Ford Explorer questions
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 11 safety recalls for the 2013 Ford Explorer: Trim on A-pillar may detach and fall off; Rear Suspension Part May Seize and Break, Causing Loss of Steering; Rear toe link can break from road salt, risking loss of steering; Rear Toe Link Can Break, Risking Loss of Steering; Rear Toe Links Can Fracture, Causing Sudden Handling Loss. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Ford Explorer?
Based on 2,237 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Steering (841), Structure (440), Unknown Or Other (345).
How do I check if a recall on my 2013 Ford Explorer has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.