Ford Explorer Steering problems
66 of the 3,122 complaints about the Ford Explorer (2.1%) concern Steering, making it the model's #10 problem area. That share is 0.3× the Steering share across all tracked vehicles.
Analysis
By model year, Steering complaints peak with the 2018 model (16, 2% of that year's complaints) and are lowest for the 2024 model (2). 17 Steering complaints were filed in the last 12 months versus 15 in the 12 months before — a steady pace.
Owners most often describe: “steering”, “wheel”, “rack”, “return center” and “direction”. 6 of these reports (9.1%) describe a crash or fire, with 7 injuries and 0 deaths mentioned.
No recall campaign addresses Steering for the tracked model years.
By model year
When complaints were filed
Last 12 months: 17 · Previous 12 months: 15
Common terms in reports
- steering54
- wheel27
- rack8
- return center5
- direction8
- suspension8
What owners report
While traveling on I-26 east near North Carolina MM 51 in the left lane, the vehicle suddenly pulled uncontrollably to the left resulting in a sideswipe of the guardrail. The vehicle then swerved to the right stopping near the center of the interstate.
The lane assist system put the vehicle into a skid on snowy road with no markings on roadway. The vehicle is available to inspect but insurance company is pushing to pickup vehicle as it was totaled.
Steering fails to self-center after slight bear-left such as lane change manuver or steering to track a gentle left bend in road, typically holding ~10 degree left position of the steering wheel.
The contact owns a 2019 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH, the steering wheel was abnormally loose, and the vehicle became uncontrollable.
When going around a curve the steering wheel is sticking on the right. I have to tighten my grip on the wheel and manually straighten the wheel. This happened to me several times today on my 50 min trip.
While driving out of a turn or curve, the steering does not return to center. Which may cause veering into other lanes or off the road.
Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA, trimmed for length. The ODI number is NHTSA's record identifier.
Related recalls
No recall campaign addresses Steering for the tracked model years.
Problem areas · Ford Explorer
- Transmission / powertrain684
- Body & structure656
- Electrical425
- Interior & equipment400
- Engine381
- Brakes98
- Wheels, tires & suspension96
- Fuel system84
- Steering66
- Airbags & seat belts64
- Lighting57
- Driver-assist systems43
Ford Explorer problems, complaints & recalls by model year ›
Frequently asked questions
How common are Steering problems on the Ford Explorer?
66 of the 3,122 complaints about the Ford Explorer (2.1%) concern Steering, making it the model's #10 problem area. That share is 0.3× the Steering share across all tracked vehicles.
Which Ford Explorer model years have the most Steering complaints?
By model year, Steering complaints peak with the 2018 model (16, 2% of that year's complaints) and are lowest for the 2024 model (2).
Is there a recall for Ford Explorer Steering problems?
No recall campaign addresses Steering for the tracked model years.