2011 FORD Explorer Recalls & Safety Issues
Official recalls, technical service bulletins (TSBs), and safety issues from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
VIN Decoder
As an Amazon Associate, ForCar.org earns from qualifying purchases.
All Recalls
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
NHTSA 19V435000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.
NHTSA 17E048000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the interior door handle return spring may unseat, resulting in interior door handle that does not return to the fully stowed position after actuation.
NHTSA 15V171000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain replacement steering gears installed on model year 2011-2012 Explorers as service parts in September 2013 and January 2014. The affected gears may lock, preventing the driver from being able to steer the vehicle.
NHTSA 14E001000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 17, 2010, through February 28, 2012. The affected vehicles may experience an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear, which can cause a loss of the motor position sensor signal resulting in a shut down of the power steering assist.
NHTSA 14V286000FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 EXPLORER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 15, 2010, THROUGH DECEMBER 13, 2010, EQUIPPED WITH SECOND ROW 60% SEATS WITH MANUAL RECLINER MECHANISMS THAT MAY HAVE COMPONENTS THAT ARE OUT OF DIMENSIONAL SPECIFICATION. THESE SEATS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."
NHTSA 11V063000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Explorer vehicles originally sold, or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. These vehicles may be equipped with a cross-axis ball joint (CABJ) replacement part that could seize, and result in a fracture of the outboard section of the rear suspension toe link.
NHTSA 21V746000Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.
NHTSA 24V031000Where to Find VIN for Recall Check
To check for recalls on your 2011 FORD Explorer, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Recall Verification
Each character in your 2011 FORD Explorer 17-digit VIN helps identify specific recalls affecting your vehicle. Learn how the VIN structure works for accurate recall lookup.
How to Check 2011 FORD Explorer Recalls in 3 Steps
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2011 FORD Explorer dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
Enter VIN in Checker
Input your VIN into our free recall checker tool above to search NHTSA database for safety recalls, TSBs, and service campaigns specific to your vehicle.
Review & Schedule Repair
Check the recall details including affected components, consequences, and remedy. Contact your FORD dealer to schedule free recall repair appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many recalls does the 2011 FORD Explorer have?
The 2011 FORD Explorer currently has 8 recalls according to NHTSA records. All recall information is sourced directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database.
Are 2011 FORD Explorer recalls free to fix?
Yes! All safety recalls for 2011 FORD Explorer vehicles must be repaired free of charge by authorized dealers, regardless of vehicle age or mileage. Contact your local FORD dealer to schedule a recall repair.
How do I check if my 2011 FORD Explorer has open recalls?
You can check for open recalls by entering your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in our VIN decoder tool. The 17-character VIN can be found on your vehicle registration, insurance card, or on the driver's side dashboard visible through the windshield.
Where can I find my 2011 FORD Explorer VIN number?
Your 2011 FORD Explorer VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
What should I do if my 2011 FORD Explorer has a recall?
Contact your nearest FORD dealership immediately to schedule a free recall repair. Bring your vehicle registration or VIN number. All safety recalls must be fixed free of charge by the manufacturer, regardless of vehicle age or mileage.
Are NHTSA recalls mandatory to fix on 2011 FORD Explorer?
While not legally required for vehicle owners to fix recalls, it's strongly recommended for safety. However, dealerships and manufacturers must offer free repairs for all official NHTSA recalls on 2011 FORD Explorer vehicles.