Complaint 2228764

2020 FORD EXPLORER • UNKNOWN OR OTHER • incident Apr 19, 2026

Crash
No
Fire
No
Injuries
0
Deaths
0
Complaint ID
2228764
Make
FORD
Model
EXPLORER
Model Year
2020
Component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Incident Date
Apr 19, 2026
Date Received
Jul 23, 2026
Data As Of
Aug 1, 2026

Complaint Summary

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owner Narrative

I own a 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum equipped with Adaptive LED Headlamps. The passenger-side low-beam headlamp intermittently failed and would turn off while driving. The vehicle displayed the warning message, **"Check Headlamp System – See Manual."** Initially, the headlamp would occasionally begin working again after restarting the vehicle, but for approximately the past three months, the passenger-side low beam has remained inoperative. The failed component is the passenger-side adaptive headlamp assembly and related headlamp system. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This creates a significant safety concern because nighttime visibility is reduced with only one functioning low-beam headlamp. It also makes it more difficult for other drivers to see my vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash, especially on dark roads or during poor weather conditions. The warning message first appeared before the headlamp permanently failed. The problem was intermittent at first but has progressively worsened until the passenger-side low beam no longer functions. I have learned that numerous owners of higher-trim Ford Explorers equipped with Adaptive LED Headlamps have reported experiencing the same issue. I understand that similar complaints have already been submitted to NHTSA. The replacement cost is extremely expensive and often requires replacement of the entire adaptive headlamp assembly, leaving owners to pay out of pocket for what appears to be a widespread defect. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this issue to determine whether a manufacturing or design defect exists and whether Ford should issue a recall or other corrective action. Also, I do have the vehicle available to show.

Owner-submitted narrative on file with NHTSA. Complaint narratives are self-reported and have not been verified.