April 29, 2022 – Ford is recalling nearly 253,000 Explorer SUVs from the 2020-2022 model years including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and ST versions, rear-wheel-drive models with a 2.3-liter engine, as well as models built specifically for police use.
Due to a faulty design, an important part of the drivetrain could break and cause the vehicle to roll away even if the shifter is in Park. Ford says that drivers may notice a loud “grinding, binding, or clunking” noise if the drivetrain fails.
Ford will provide different repairs for the vehicles. Police vehicles will get parts of the driveshaft replaced with upgraded versions, free of charge, while the other vehicles will get a software update that will engage the parking brake automatically if the vehicle is put into Park.