Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label printed on the body control module (BCM). The Factory Keyless Entry Code application within the diagnostic scan tool will not provide an applicable master code for the accessory wireless keypad. If the wallet card for an accessory keypad is not available, the "Wireless RF Keypad Diagnosis Guide" can be referenced and provides direction on how
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Ford Explorer electrical problems
moderate Owners of the 2013 Ford Explorer have filed 111 NHTSA complaints about the electrical, typically surfacing around 50,000 miles at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
111
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Explorer | 8 |
| 2011 Explorer | 37 |
| 2012 Explorer | 34 |
| 2013 Explorer (this page) | 111 |
| 2014 Explorer | 68 |
| 2015 Explorer | 71 |
| 2016 Explorer | 93 |
| 2017 Explorer | 81 |
2fires
3injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 111 electrical complaints filed for the 2013 Ford Explorer, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 111 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 19 model years of Ford Explorer in our records for electrical problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2013-2023 Ford or Lincoln vehicles with modems activated through FordPass or LincolnWay may experience 12 volt battery drain symptoms when the customer uses non-Ford/Lincoln phone applications as an alternate channel to access vehicle commands such as door lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle location, etc. The battery drain may be caused by excessive calls for data through the vehicle network keeping it in an activated state. Recommend that the customer uninstall the app to ensure this is not contributing to battery symptoms experienced. Advise the customer that unaffiliated third-party app developers do not work directly with Ford to adhere to security, vehicle communication, and privac
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA and negative battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-BA are available for this type of repair. Do not cut or shorten the battery cable, instead carefully remove the affected battery cable clamp and clean the cable end as necessary to preserve wire length. Some rework may be necessary for some vehicle environments. Bend the new positive battery cable clamp as needed and crimp it to the existing battery cable. Make sure to use heat shrink tubing over the battery cable
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2009-2017 Expedition/Navigator, 2009-2014 F-150/Mustang, 2008-2009 Sable, 2008-2019 Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility, and 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit inoperative or intermittent HVAC blower motor function at various fan speed settings. This may be due to a poor electrical connection at the blower motor speed control. If the blower motor speed control is determined to be the causal part, replacement of the electrical connector pigtail harness (14S411) to the blower motor speed control is also recommended to avoid repeat repairs. Use pigtail harness service part numbers 3U2Z-14S411-ZEA or CU2Z-14S411-FA, as both parts are interchangeable. Refer to Wi
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been developed and is available from Rotunda (339-EVDC100). A tester has been provided to each U.S. dealership free of charge with shipments completed 19-Apr-2019 (reference EFC07013 on FMCDealer.com). This tester will help reduce the potential for misdiagnosis and unnecessary compressor replacement. Make sure that this tester is used for warranty repairs and document the test results in
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
2013 Explorer owners describe a pattern of electrical problems starting early. Battery terminal corrosion appears within 2-3 years despite regular maintenance, requiring $1,000+ repairs because of how Ford engineered the cables. One mechanic heard of a battery explosion.
Door ajar sensors malfunction constantly—lights and chimes trigger even when doors are closed, and the issue recurs within a year of "repair." This drains batteries and prevents door locking while driving, which owners rightfully call a safety hazard around children.
Engine stalls without warning at any speed, then restarts after cycling the ignition. Mechanics point to terrain management faults, though dealer diagnostics often find nothing. Shift-to-park sensors fail and trap vehicles on slopes. Rearview cameras flip images or go dark. The MySync system blacks out mid-drive, killing AC, navigation, and climate control.
Water leaks in through windshield seals and sunroof drains, pooling in floors and spare tire wells despite vehicles being garaged. Sunroof motors burn out from moisture. Headlights go out intermittently from moisture in harnesses. Windshield trim flies off while driving. Seatbelts won't latch properly.
Battery drain is chronic—from door sensors staying active, interior lights refusing to shut off, and defective shifters keeping systems powered. Dealers acknowledge service bulletins exist for some failures but resist recalls, citing "normal operation" or warranty expiration.
Same Ford Explorer electrical reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Battery terminal corrosion and cable degradation
Excessive corrosion on positive battery terminal and severe erosion of battery cables within 2-3 years. Corrosion is localized to positive terminal while negative terminal shows none, suggesting either factory overcharge or defective battery design. Corroded cables lose contact with battery posts, causing power loss and intermittent charging failures. Owners report mechanic observations of similar failures across multiple 2013 Explorers.
When: 2-3 years / under 60,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle won't start; Power loss while driving; Battery clamp totally eroded; Positive terminal corrosion only
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement $400+; cable/housing replacement $400+; labor extensive due to Ford engine compartment design; total repair over $1,000. Mechanic reported observing battery explosion in similar case.
Intermittent engine stall during operation
Engine shuts off abruptly under all driving conditions—stopped at lights, cruising at highway speed, or town driving—then restarts after ignition cycle. Multiple owners report mechanic diagnostics pointing to terrain management system fault causing throttle position sensor to send wide-open indication to engine control module. No fault codes typically present in ECU scan. Owners report this is a widespread issue on Ford Explorer owner forums.
When: Various mileage; one report at 90,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abrupt engine shutdown without warning; Vehicle restarts after ignition cycle; Occurs at highway speed (70 mph), town driving, and stopped; No check engine light in some cases; All power systems shut down including accessories
Repairs/costs cited: Mechanic unable to retrieve codes in some cases; terrain management fault suspected but not always confirmed by dealer diagnostic.
Defective shift-to-park sensor
Shift lever position sensor fails to register park position correctly. Vehicle displays "shift to park" warning even when shifter is firmly in park, preventing vehicle from staying safely parked. Sensor failure also drains battery by leaving electrical systems powered on. One owner reported replacement cost of $672 for shifter and battery.
When: Within first 2 years of ownership; one report at 3 years
Symptoms owners cite: "Shift to park" warning light appears when shifter in park; Vehicle won't stay in park on slopes; Battery drains; Vehicle won't start; Key fobs don't lock/unlock doors
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter and battery replacement cost $672.39
Spontaneous locking with occupant inside
Vehicle locks automatically while occupied, trapping child inside with keys nearby. Built-in unlock mechanisms (touch door handle with key fob proximity) fail to function. Fire department rescue required in one incident where interior temperature exceeded 120°F.
When: At varying mileages
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle spontaneously locks while occupied; Touch-to-unlock feature fails; Doors cannot be opened from inside or outside
Repairs/costs cited: Fire department break-in required in one case
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford declined to investigate or fix; stated not their responsibility
Door ajar sensor malfunction
Door ajar warning light illuminates and door ajar chime sounds continuously even when doors are fully closed and latched. Sensor remains faulty even after cleaning or replacement; failures recur within 1-2 years. Dome lights remain on at night, reducing visibility and draining battery. Doors cannot be locked while vehicle is in motion. Ford acknowledges service bulletin exists for this issue.
When: Throughout vehicle life; often recurs within 1-2 years of repair
Symptoms owners cite: Door ajar light on when doors closed; Continuous chiming; Dome lights won't turn off; Cannot lock doors while driving; Battery drain
Repairs/costs cited: Sensor cleaning or replacement (part #DG1Z-5421813-A); temporary fix only. Repeated failures require multiple dealer visits and may incur repeated deductibles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford aware of issue; service bulletin available but no recall
Headlight failure and intermittent outage
Headlights go out intermittently—one bulb or both—while driving, particularly in town driving. Lights turn back on after cycling switch off and on. Owner reported local state trooper confirmed this is known issue with newer Ford headlights. Dealership diagnosed moisture intrusion into harness causing electrical power loss. Owner reported $1,000+ repair cost.
When: Varies; increasing frequency over time
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights go out one or both; Lights turn back on after switch cycle; Occurs more frequently in town driving than highway; Steady-speed driving does not trigger failure
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership estimates $1,000+ for harness repair and greasing to prevent moisture intrusion
Sunroof drain failure and water intrusion
Sunroof drain tubes become clogged despite vehicle being garaged and parked in clean areas, leading to water pooling in vehicle interior and burning out sunroof motor. Water intrusion damages passenger-side floorboard carpet and accumulates under cargo area. Cracks in seam sealer at rear tailgate welds allow water to leak into cargo area and floorboard, creating mold and mildew hazard. Multiple owners report Ford denies responsibility despite similar failures being documented on 2011-2019 Ford vehicles.
When: Varies; some failures within first 3 years
Symptoms owners cite: Water pooling in passenger floorboard; Sunroof motor failure/burnout; Water dripping from third-row seatbelt into spare tire well; Cracks visible in seam sealer at rear tailgate welds; Mold and mildew growth in carpet
Repairs/costs cited: Sunroof motor replacement required; seam sealer cracks require recaulking or resealing
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford and dealers deny responsibility; owners report others with same failures on 2011-2019 models
Windshield and door seal leaks
Water leaks into vehicle interior through windshield perimeter and door seals during rain. Owner reports bad caulking or defective engineering at windshield-body junction allows water to penetrate and damage electrical components and flooring. Water entry from windshield area in turn endangers electrical systems.
When: Varies
Symptoms owners cite: Water leaks from windshield during rain; Water enters passenger compartment and soaks carpet; Electrical damage from water intrusion; Water visible creeping in from windshield top area; Front seat passenger becomes wet when making turns
Repairs/costs cited: Recaulking of windshield seal required; power window switch replacement may be needed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall campaign 24V031000 noted but parts not available; excessive delay for recall repair
Rearview camera malfunction
Rearview/backup camera fails intermittently or displays reversed image (left appears right and vice versa). One owner backed into ditch due to reversed image; malfunction occurs 9 out of 10 times. Some cameras become completely inoperative; others display green, black, or no-color view. Dealer claims different issue than recalled camera problem and refuses warranty coverage.
When: Varies; one complaint at 65,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Camera intermittently inoperative; Reversed image display (left/right inverted); Screen turns green, black, or loses color; Message "Contact the Dealer" displayed; Camera fails to activate when shifting to reverse
Repairs/costs cited: Camera replacement required; dealer estimates not provided; not covered under warranty per dealer
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer confirmed vehicle not included in camera recall; customer denied warranty coverage
MySync/MyFord Touch system failures
Infotainment system malfunctions cause screen to go black, disabling climate control, navigation, radio, and backup camera while vehicle is moving. Owner must pull over and reboot system by turning off vehicle. Multiple dashboard warning lights illuminate and flash different colors. System failure affects climate control, leaving heat on high in middle of summer, and prevents opening rear tailgate electronically.
When: Varies throughout vehicle life
Symptoms owners cite: Screen goes black while driving; All climate, navigation, and radio functions stop; Backup camera disabled; Multiple warning lights illuminate and flash colors; Information screen turns black; Rear tailgate won't open with electronic buttons; Climate control stuck on high heat/defrost
Repairs/costs cited: Ford customer satisfaction program alert issued 5/25/2019; dealer refuses repair citing program expiration; repair cost $1,200
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Customer satisfaction program available but dealership claims expired; $1,200 repair cost
Key fob detection failure
Vehicle displays "no key detected" warning message while driving, triggering horn honk. Failure has occurred over a dozen times. Dealership diagnosed as radio frequency interference from phones, chargers, or other devices and claimed this is normal operation. Owners told they must live with the issue.
When: Intermittent; multiple occurrences
Symptoms owners cite: "No key detected" message appears while driving; Horn honks unexpectedly; Vehicle continues to run despite warning; Interference with key fob signal
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership claims normal and unfixable; attributed to external RF interference
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership claims normal operation; no fix available
Auxiliary power malfunction
After turning off vehicle, auxiliary power activates on its own. Power takes extended time to shut off automatically. Owner initially told this behavior is normal.
When: Varies
Symptoms owners cite: Auxiliary power comes on after vehicle turned off; Power fails to turn off promptly
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership claimed normal behavior
Navigation system GPS drift
GPS marker moves off designated route during navigation, causing system to display "off route" warnings and issue conflicting directions. Owner reports this is a known issue affecting multiple Ford vehicles. Ford acknowledges awareness of problem but claims it is not serious enough to warrant a fix.
When: Intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: GPS marker appears off-route on screen; System displays "off route" messages; Navigation provides conflicting directions; Causes driver distraction and near-accidents
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford aware of issue but claims not serious enough to fix
Door lock actuator failure
Front driver and passenger door lock mechanisms fail over time, showing false door-ajar condition. Both driver and passenger lock actuators failed at different mileages (30,000 and 135,000 miles respectively) on same vehicle.
When: 30,000-135,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Door shows ajar when actually closed; Interior lights cannot be turned off until vehicle reaches 10 mph; Unsafe night driving visibility due to glare
Repairs/costs cited: Lock actuator replacement required
Ignition switch failure
Ignition switch fails, preventing engine from cranking and shifting out of gears. Vehicle stalled in parking lot at low speed and would not restart.
When: At 158,000 miles; other failure at 3 months
Symptoms owners cite: Engine fails to turn over; Vehicle stalls and won't restart; Cannot shift out of gears; Check engine light may illuminate
Repairs/costs cited: Ignition switch replacement required; independent mechanic repair performed
Front Control Interface Module (FCIM) and amplifier failure
FCIM and audio power module (APM) stop functioning completely, disabling multiple vehicle systems simultaneously. Airbag light illuminates solid. Rear power tailgate won't open. Climate control stuck on high heat defrost.
When: At 99,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: All front control functions stop; Screen and displays non-functional; Airbag light on solid color; Rear tailgate won't open electronically; Climate control malfunction; Multiple warning lights illuminate and flash
Repairs/costs cited: FCIM and AMP replacement required
Idle surge and rough idle with AC on
Engine idle becomes unstable when vehicle is stopped with AC on. Engine idles below 500 RPM then surges to 700 RPM repeatedly. Vehicle lurches forward while stopped and in drive with AC running, even without driver input. Problem resolves temporarily after revving engine but recurs within 10 minutes. Multiple websites document this as known issue.
When: Intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idle when AC running at stop; RPMs drop below 500 then surge to 700; Vehicle lurches forward from stop with AC on; Temporary relief after revving engine
Windshield trim detachment
Driver-side windshield trim pillar/molding flies off vehicle while driving on highway without prior warning or damage. Trim comes unglued and poses safety hazard to following traffic. Replacement at dealership required. Trim becomes loose again shortly after replacement.
When: At various mileages including under 60,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Windshield trim flies off during highway driving; Trim becomes loose again after replacement; No prior warning signs
Repairs/costs cited: Trim replacement at dealership; trim came unglued per Ford
Interior water damage and mold growth
Water accumulates in passenger-side floorboards, under seats and cargo areas, soaking carpet and creating mold and mildew hazard. Water pooling occurs from multiple sources including sunroof drain failures, windshield seals, and rear tailgate weam cracks. Electrical wiring exposed to water creates shock hazard and corrosion.
When: Varies
Symptoms owners cite: Large puddles in passenger-side floor area; Carpet soaked and damaged; Water accumulates under seats; Water in spare tire well; Mold and mildew growth; Electrical components damaged by water
Repairs/costs cited: Carpet replacement, electrical repairs, sealing work required
Seatbelt latch failure
Passenger side seat belt in second row refuses to latch in either stationary or moving vehicle. Seatbelts not clicking and failing to secure properly. Creates safety hazard for rear passengers.
When: Under 40,000 miles in one report
Symptoms owners cite: Seatbelt won't latch; Seatbelt won't click into place; Affects rear row passengers
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not covered under warranty despite under 40,000 miles
Door and window mechanism failures
Passenger door lock mechanism stops working due to mechanical error, requiring manual lock/unlock operation. Power window switch malfunctions intermittently. Driver door won't close properly despite repeated closing attempts.
When: Varies; some failures within warranty period
Symptoms owners cite: Passenger door lock inoperative; Must manually lock/unlock passenger door; Power window switch works intermittently; Driver door won't register as closed; Door ajar light remains on despite closed door
Repairs/costs cited: Passenger door lock repaired twice per service invoices; power window switch replacement
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Issues not covered under recall despite multiple documented failures
Interior trim cracking and deterioration
Car interior cracks at seams without any damage or accident. Door trim pillar becomes unglued and loose. Seam sealer at body welds cracks, allowing water intrusion.
When: By 4 years old
Symptoms owners cite: Interior cracks at seams; Door handle trim area torn; Door trim pillar unglued; Seam sealer cracks at welds
Electrical system drain from defective components
Multiple electrical failures cause battery drain: door ajar sensor remaining active, interior lights staying on, defective shifter, and other electrical parasitic draws. Battery drains quickly within a year of replacement in some cases.
When: Intermittent; battery drain occurs within 1 year
Symptoms owners cite: Battery drains quickly; Vehicle won't start after sitting; Interior lights remain on; Electrical accessories remain powered
Synthesized from 111 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
The "door ajar" sensor on many Ford products is defective and causes the door ajar light to come on even when the doors are closed. This also causes the interior dome lights to remain on at night and will not allow the doors to be locked while operating the vehicle. It is dangerous not being able to lock the doors as children could open the doors accidentally and fall out. It is also dangerous…
The "door ajar" sensor on many Ford products is defective and causes the door ajar light to come on even when the doors are closed. This also causes the interior dome lights to remain on at night and will not allow the doors to be locked while operating the vehicle. It is dangerous not being able to lock the doors as children could open the doors accidentally and fall out. It is also dangerous…
Had electrical trouble with your 2013 Ford Explorer?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2013 Ford Explorer?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 111 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 71 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 30,000 and 80,000 miles, with the median around 50,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 30,000; a quarter make it past 80,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Ford/Explorer.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.