2022 Ford Explorer: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2022 Ford Explorer? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 224 complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain as the top reported area.
2022 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 7 2022 Ford Explorer trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 7 trims analysed.
2022 Ford Explorer Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2022 Ford Explorer SUV 4WDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not Rated15.1% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Rollover
15.1% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2022 Ford Explorer has 224 owner complaints, 17 crash-related complaints, and 23 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Transmission / Drivetrain. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Ford
- Model
- Explorer
- Model year
- 2022
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 224
- Crash-related complaints
- 17
- Safety recall campaigns
- 23
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 22
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 20 / 26
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2022 Ford Explorer Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Uncategorized Issues
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Uncategorized Issues, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2022 Ford Explorer?
The 2022 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2022 Ford Explorer
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of issues or previous repairs.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for electrical system and back over prevention components.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on reported components.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of issues or previous repairs.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for electrical system and back over prevention components.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, focusing on reported components.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2022 Ford Explorer, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
NHTSA complaints for the 2022 Ford Explorer are concentrated in the transmission/drivetrain and electrical systems, with a notable number of uncategorized issues. Crash-related complaints are present but relatively few. The data suggests potential concerns with these components, though the confidence level is low due to limited sample size.
- Transmission/drivetrain complaints account for the largest share of reported issues.
- Electrical faults are the third most reported component, with 34 complaints.
- Back over prevention and forward collision avoidance systems also appear in the top concerns.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues are the most frequently reported.
- Electrical faults, including potential system malfunctions.
- Back over prevention system complaints may indicate sensor or camera problems.
All 2022 Ford Explorer Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2022 Ford Explorer. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 58 | 2 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 43 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 34 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Engine Problems | 24 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 21 | 3 | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 16 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 14 | — | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 11 | 1 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 11 | 3 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 10 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 9 | 1 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 9 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 7 | 4 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 5 | 2 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Parking-Brake Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Chest Clip | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Buckle | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Harness | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2022 Ford Explorer. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2022 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time…
EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE BEGINS MOVING FROM STATIONARY POSITION(BOTH IN FORWARD AND REVERSE GEARS) A LOUD CLUNKING SOUND IS HEAR ORIGINATING FROM THE REAR AXLE/REAR DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTING BOLT. I HAVE SEEN IT MY SELF WHEN LOOKING UNDER THE VEHICLE . AND I'M CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY WH…
The coating over the window up/ down controls is pealing and flaky. The coating is very sharp and brittle and has deeply gashed a couple fingers.
There are three active recall on my car, all of which say there are not remedy available and NHTSA Recall Number 25V455 can cause engine failure that leads to a crash, was reported in July 2025, and STILL has no remedy. The other 2 recalls are NHTSA Recall Number 26V123 and NHTSA…
Recently, my sun roof shade has started to sag and no longer retracts correctly. This is causing a loss of visibility out of the rear and side windows. It also is causing a distraction as it has lost it's tension. Additionally I have contacted two separate Ford dealerships, only …
The panoramic sunroof, shade, plastic brackets become brittle annd fail very fast and becomes hanging down while you are driving and blocks your complete vision very dangerous . It is not safe at all. It totally blocks your vision.
With less than 33,000 miles, started to experience noise, like something was loose coming from the right rear when going over bumps. This is intermittent. Took to mechanic and there is leaking coming from the shocks. same issue as stated in NHTSA complaint ID11544167. There is a…
This recall has been open for 8 months, all the while posing a huge safety risk. A new car can be built in less time. Why is this urgent recall effort taking so long to complete? Jul 08,2025 Manufacturer Recall Number25S75 NHTSA Recall Number25V455 Recall Status Recall Incomplet…
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Explorer. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that unknown parts had failed, the battery was low, and an u…
After multiple attempts to fold the third-row power seat in my 2022 Ford Explorer, the seat mechanism failed completely. The seat will no longer lock securely in either the upright or folded position. The seat frame appears to have failed and the seat constantly springs back and …
The rack and pinion system needs to be replaced as a result of "normal wear and tear"
The panoramic sunroof sunshade in my 2022 Ford Explorer failed and now sags downward. The shade hangs low enough to partially block the rear window and interferes with visibility through the rearview mirror. After researching the issue, I found many other owners reporting the sam…
Head lamp warning alerted (refers driver to drivers manual, only to say see a dealer) but no issues, both lamps were working. Took vehicle to Ford service center and they could not find a problem, we figured this could be an electronic issue with the warning, but Head lamp warni…
Both catalytic converters have failed, with one have a catastrophic failure, resulting in pipe becoming disconnect from the exhaust system and dropped to pavement while vehicle was traveling at interstate speed. Pipe was facing forward when it dropped. Posed severe risk to mysel…
My front passenger get side lighting component started blinking about 6 months ago. Now it’s completely out. I went to get a new bulb and they told me I need to buy the entire lighting unit it’s $2800 at the dealership. I joined a Ford group on Facebook and hundreds of people are…
Component/System: Low-pressure fuel pump/fuel delivery system related to Recall 25S75. Vehicle is a 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid. Description: My vehicle is subject to Recall 25S75 involving the low-pressure fuel pump that can cause loss of fuel pressure and engine stalling. The ve…
The headliner that covers my panoramic sunroof has came loose on both sides , obstructing my reaview .
The panoramic shade on my 2022 Ford Explorer failed causing an inability to see clearly. The dealership did replace the faulty motors on both sides free of charge. Afterwards when attempting to close the sunroof after opening, it wouldn't close. We had to force it shut due to rai…
The contact’s employer owns a 2022 Ford Explorer. The owner received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V455000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of t…
My 2022 Ford Explorer had Recall 23S55 performed on June 21, 2025 to address rear axle/differential fastener fracture. Despite the recall repair, the rear subframe-to-differential cover bolt sheared off while driving, causing the differential to drop and the driveshaft to be pul…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2022 Ford Explorer.
2022 Ford Explorer Recalls
23 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2022 Ford Explorer. 23 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2022 Ford Explorer Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2022 Ford Explorer reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 224 owner complaints, 17 crash-related complaints, and 23 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2022 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Ford Explorer?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (58 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (43 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (34 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2022 Ford Explorer?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2022 Ford Explorer?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2022 Ford Explorer, NHTSA complaints include 17 crash-related reports and 1 fire reports out of 224 total complaints. 21 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2022 Ford Explorer have any recalls?▾
Yes. 23 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2022 Ford Explorer. A major recall area is FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP. 23 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2022 Ford Explorer?▾
The 2022 Ford Explorer shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Ford Explorer reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2022 Ford Explorer based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.