Everything NHTSA's vPIC database knows about this exact vehicle:
Decoding from NHTSA…
Vehicle history — accidents, title & owners
The decode above is what this vehicle is. For what it's been through — accidents, title brands, odometer, theft/total-loss and previous owners — pull a full history report.
NHTSA publishes the first 11 characters of the VIN with every complaint — that identifies the plant, model year, body and engine. So these are reports from cars built exactly like this one, not an average across the whole model.
1FM5K8D81JG••••••2018 Ford EXPLORER
This build draws 3.8× more complaints than the average 2018 Ford EXPLORER build (19 vs 5).
19on this build
709on the model
142builds in total
1injuries
Most reportedStructure 5Engine 3Fuel/propulsion System 3Electrical System 2
What owners of this build wrote
Power TrainAug 2026
At 30 to 40 mph, there is a shuttering or stutter in the transmission during acceleration. This is a problem when trying to enter traffic on the expressway (Interstate or other lanes of traffic). I have taken this to the dealer and they indicate that the transmission needs to be…
EngineDec 2025
Leaking water pump that if isn’t repaired will cause catastrophic engine failure. Very expensive repair, $2800 because of internal placement of the pump. Since the water pump is in line with the crankshaft and located over the main body of the engine, it allows coolant to leak…
Unknown Or OtherAug 2025
The plastic covers on the roof rails are both loose and constantly pop out. I'm nervous that they are going to fly off when driving, causing an issue for other drivers
StructureApr 2025
We have been trying to get Safety Recall Notice 24S02/NHTSA recall 24V031 accomplished by our Ford dealership for several months and they say that the parts required are on back order from Ford. My complaint with Ford Motor Company is not having the parts needed for the…
SteeringSep 2023
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized and failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an…
Read all 19 complaints on this exact buildFull text, search by keyword, and the systems that fail most on cars built like yours.Unlock with Pro →
Owner complaints…
Now the whole model — all 142 builds of it, not just this build. Same NHTSA reports, wider net:
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Exact value for this VIN, adjusted for mileage
The original window sticker and factory options
Full research report as a PDF you can hand to a mechanic
Decoded via NHTSA vPIC. Recalls, complaints and safety from NHTSA; MPG from EPA fueleconomy.gov. Full history reports from our partner. VIN 1FM5K8D81JGA22110 · decoded Oct 2026. — ForCar Reviewed by Denis Kataev, founder of ForCar.