2021 Ford Explorer Brakes Problems
NHTSA lists 24 brake complaints for the 2021 Ford Explorer, 6% of that year's 426 total complaints, with 3 crashes and 1 injury reported. Median mileage at failure is 37,000. One related recall (23V199000) covers a PCM software update tied to braking behavior.
- Brakes complaints
- 24
- 6% of 426
- Crashes reported
- 3
- Fires reported
- 0
- Injuries reported
- 1
- Median mileage
- 37,000 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical brake symptoms owners report
- Owners report the automatic parking brake engaging unexpectedly after a rear axle bolt recall service, causing the vehicle to lurch or the E-brake to auto-set in Park.
- Some drivers describe the parking brake failing to hold on an incline, letting the vehicle roll away even though it was set.
- Several complaints describe a loud vibration felt in the steering wheel, seat, and mirror around 35-41 mph that fades after extended driving.
- Multiple owners report brake pedal going soft or sinking to the floor, sometimes with ABS, uphill assist, or parking brake warning lights on after a powertrain recall visit.
- A few complaints describe a loud popping or metal sound from the rear brakes after a prior recall, with new pads not resolving it.
- Isolated reports describe momentary brake failure at low speed, requiring the parking brake or steering around traffic to stop.
When 2021 Ford Explorer brake complaints were filed
First complaint Oct 30, 2021, latest Jul 14, 2026.
Brakes recalls for the 2021 Ford Explorer
- NHTSA 23V199000Mar 24, 2023Brakes674 vehicles
Parking brake:electrical
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L RWD, 3.3L GAS, 3.3L FHEV, or 3.0L ST powertrain. The previous powertrain control module (PCM) update completed under recall 22V-255 did not include the automatic electronic parking brake feature when the vehicle is shifted to park, as intended. In addition, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect.
Risk: Without the electronic parking brake applied, the vehicle could rollaway if the driveshaft disconnects. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 31, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S16.
Brakes complaints by Explorer model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How many brake complaints does the 2021 Ford Explorer have?
- NHTSA lists 24 brake complaints for the 2021 Explorer, which is 6% of the 426 total complaints filed for that model year.
- Is there a brake recall for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
- Yes. Recall 23V199000, reported March 24, 2023, covers a PCM software update for certain 2020-2022 Explorer powertrains linked to prior remedy issues; it does not require parking outside or stopping driving.
- At what mileage do 2021 Explorer brake problems usually appear?
- The median mileage at failure among reported brake complaints is 37,000 miles.
- Have the brake issues caused crashes or injuries?
- NHTSA data tied to these brake complaints shows 3 crashes and 1 injury reported for the 2021 Explorer.
- How does the 2021 Explorer compare to other years for brake complaints?
- The 2021 model's 6% share is lower than 2010 (14%) and 2025 (16%) but higher than 2016-2019, which ranged from 1% to 2%.