2018 Ford Explorer Body Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are body problems on the 2018 Ford Explorer?
288 owners have reported body problems on the 2018 Ford Explorer, 39% of all complaints for this year and the most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 40,000–87,000 miles. 3 recalls cover this area.
288 complaints 39% of all 2018 complaints 61,000 miles typical
Which parts fail
The specific part named in each complaint.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (123 of 288). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Body complaints by the year the problem happened.
Body complaints by Explorer year
Related recalls
Body
The roof rail covers may come loose and detach from the vehicle. A detached roof rail cover can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the roof rail covers and as necessary, repair or replace the push-pins, rail clips, or roof rail covers, free of charge. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 21V316.
Recall 26V448000 · Jul 2026Roof and pillars
The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach. A detached trim piece can fall off the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model years.
Recall 24V031000 · Jan 2024Loose roof rail covers can detach
Crash riskThe retention pins holding the roof rail covers can loosen, letting the covers come off the vehicle. A detached cover can become a road hazard and raise the risk of a crash.
Fix: The dealer will install new push-pins and replace any damaged rail clips or roof rail covers, free of charge.
Recall 21V316000 · May 2021Get an email when your 2018 Ford Explorer gets a new recall
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Other 2018 Ford Explorer problems
Common questions
What are common 2018 Ford Explorer body problems?
Complaints most often name the body, roof and pillars and dashboard.
At what mileage do 2018 Ford Explorer body problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 40,000–87,000 miles. The middle value is about 61,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2018 Ford Explorer body problems?
Yes: 26V448000, 24V031000, 21V316000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which Explorer year has the most body complaints?
The 2017 Explorer, with 658 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.