Technical service bulletins are instructions a manufacturer sent its dealers about a known fault. They are not recalls and the work is usually not free, but they are the clearest signal of a problem the manufacturer already knows about.
SSM 52335
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods. Ford has evaluated turbochargers replaced for oil leak symptoms and although oil may collect on the external surface of a turbocharger, it is extremely rare for a turbocharger assembly to be the root cause of the oil leak. Careful inspection of the turbocharger oil feed and drain tubes should be performed along with the recommended WSM procedures as needed. Warranty claims for turbocharger replacement going forward will be assessed.
SSM 52314
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage. Replacement of the bolt is critical to the repair and accurately following the installation procedure in the Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 303-01 is extremely important. The bolt torque procedure can be found in the crankshaft front seal removal and installation procedure or in the engine assembly procedure.
23L06
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2019 Model Year Explorer Police Interceptor Vehicles - Owner Guide Update
SAN-Vol1 I1
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and other service information.
SSM 51536
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle. Most modules on these affected vehicles are VIN/vehicle specific and hardware variations between modules do exist. Swapping a module from a vehicle or ordering a module using a different vehicle/VIN can cause ineffective repairs and additional vehicle down time. Make sure all appropriate Workshop Manual (WSM) procedures are followed when diagnosing the condition prior to all module replacements and only order modules using the correct VIN.
SSM 51291
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, equipped with spotlights, require left and/or right windshield applique/moulding modification if these parts are replaced. Spotlight mounting holes are not present on new replacement windshield appliques/moldings and must be cut using a rotary tool or equivalent. Left and/or right windshield applique/moulding spotlight mounting hole templates are available on the Professional Technician Society (PTS) at Service Tips/Technical Communications and can be printed on an 11X17 inch sheet of paper. Refer to Workshop Manual, Section 501-08 for windshield applique/moulding replacement procedures.
21N01 S2
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2016-2018 Model Year Explorer Vehicles High-Speed Cooling Fan Motor Relay; Reason for supplement: Vehicles Covered by this Program: all open / unrepaired vehicles from 21B05 (Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles) have been added to 21N01 as 21B05 expires August 31, 2022. Owner Notification: Police Interceptor Utility owners who have not completed 21B05 will be mailed a letter describing this change.
SSM 50975
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2017-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPassÃÂÃÂÃÂî/LincolnWayÃÂÃÂÃÂî app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. This occurs when the vehicle has not been started for 14 consecutive days, battery voltage is at/below 9.5 volts or the body control module (BCM) 12 volt battery state of charge (SOC) drops below 50%. A warning may also set if the telematic control unit (TCU) has received an over the air update. The TCU powers down all communication when in this mode and app features are disabled. Manually start the vehicle to wake if from mode. More information is located in the app under: Account > Help > search 'Deep Sleep' in the entry box. If the condition remains, check the BCM 12v SOC. If the SOC does not change after charging the battery or after BMS reset is performed, continue with normal battery and/or BMS sensor diagnostics.
TSB 22-2287
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit a vibration/rough idle when the vehicle is in drive (D) or reverse (R). The vehicle may also exhibit a lack of engine revolutions per minute (RPM), lack of acceleration on take off and/or shudder while driving. This may be due to the torque converter overheating causing damage to the torque converter as well as possible internal damage to the transmission. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the torque converter and specified internal transmission components that may have been damaged.
SSM 50804
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
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 privacy requirements.
TSB 22-2104
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This article supersedes TSB 21-2236 to update the models and year affected. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2022 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2022 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2022 F-Super Duty, 2018-2022 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2022 Ranger/Nautilus, 2021-2022 Bronco/Bronco Sport/Mustang Mach-E, 2022 Maverick vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or a clunk/thump noise on turns. This may be due to the seat pan track. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to install a reinforcement.
SSM 50502
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2017-2018 Focus/MKX/C-MAX, 2017-2019 MKC/Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2017-2020 Fusion/MKZ/Continental, 2017-2022 Mustang/Edge/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility/Escape/F-150/F-Super Duty, 2018-2022 Expedition/Navigator, 2019-2022 Ranger/Nautilus, 2020-2022 Corsair/Aviator, and 2021-2022 Mustang Mach-E vehicles may exhibit a noisy, incorrectly operating, and/or inoperative seat motor. This may be due to a damaged or inoperative seat track motor. A lower level service part has been released to correct noisy, incorrect operation/inoperative seat track motors.
SSM 50379
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2011-2022 Explorer and 2020-2022 Aviator vehicles may experience an inoperative roof opening panel motor. If diagnostics lead to a motor replacement, visually inspect the original motor for signs of water intrusion. If found, determine source of water leak prior to replacing the motor. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 501-17, Pinpoint Test A for 2011-2016 and Pinpoint Test B for 2017-2022 for identifying the source of the water leak.
SSM 50375
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a condition where the navigation voice prompts are inoperative after a SYNC map update. This may be due to an incomplete installation of the SYNC map software. If possible, using the original USB that installed the update, reperform the update and verify the navigation voice prompts have returned. Multiple reboots are expected when this update is being performed. Verify the Installation Is Complete message displays in the touch screen. If the original USB is not available, go to website https://syncnavigation.com/ford/home or https://syncnavigation.com/lincoln/home to download the files once more for the affected vehicle. For further map update support, reference the FAQ section on these websites.
21B12
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2017-2019 Model Year Explorer Police Inceptor - Utility / Taurus Police Inceptor -Sedan Vehicles equipped with Front Door Ballistic Panels Front Door Ballistic Panel Replacement; Owner Letter mailed In some of the affected vehicles, the Level 4 ballistic panel tiles may separate from the aramid backing and cause a rattle noise during door closure
SSM 50067
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK12 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
21B05
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
After extended idling, the high-speed cooling fan relay may fail in some of the affected vehicles. A failure will cause the fan to either continuously run or never turn on. A continuously running fan will increase the temperature of the relayâs connections (terminals) to beyond their design maximum. This may eventually create an electrical arc which heats and damages the relay terminals. Customers may experience a drained battery and a non-functional or even a melted/burned high-speed cooling fan relay inside the battery junction box (BJB). A damaged non-functional relay causing the fan to never turn on, may lead to engine overheating at idle.
SSM 50049
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2017-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicle customers may receive a message in their FordPass or Lincoln Way App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the SYNC Connect or FordPass Connect feature or Lincoln Connect or Embedded Modem Do not replace the TCU or perform any repair to resolve this condition. Refer the owner of the vehicle to Ford Pass Guides or Lincoln Way Concierge Teams to assist in removing the fleet telematics subscription.
SSM 50039
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016-2021 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode. It is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure exactly allowing time for the SYNC system to complete its tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
TSB 21-2236
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion/MKZ, 2013-2021 Escape, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2021 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2021 F-Super Duty, 2018-2021 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2021 Ranger/Nautilus, 2021 Bronco Sport/Mustang Mach-E vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or a clunk/thump noise on turns. This may be due to the seat pan track. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to install a reinforcement.
TSB 21-2175
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns.
SSM 49821
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
21B14-S1
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013 through 2017 Model Year Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles that are Registered or Sold in Certain States/Provinces; Rear Toe Link Ball Joint Inspection This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field data and parts for testing. Ford is voluntarily conducting this program to inspect the toe link ball joint and, if necessary, replace both rear toe links and wheel knuckles on vehicles always registered and always residing in the Nashville, Houston, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Phoenix, Winnipeg, and Calgary areas. The replacement toe links and knuckles being installed contain no enhancements and are identical to the parts being removed. It is very important that any parts obtained from this program be returned to Ford for this study.
21B14
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013 through 2017 Model Year Explorer and Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles that are Registered or Sold in Certain States/Provinces Rear Toe Link Ball Joint Inspection This program is a proactive investigation by Ford Motor Company to obtain field data and parts for testing. Ford is voluntarily conducting this program to inspect the toe link ball joint and, if necessary, replace both rear toe links and wheel knuckles on vehicles always registered and always residing in the Nashville (and Calgary) area. The replacement toe links and knuckles being installed contain no enhancements and are identical to the parts being removed. It is very important that any parts obtained from this program be returned to Ford for this study
TSB 20-2271
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2015-2019 MKC and 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine may exhibit a vibration/rough idle when the vehicle is in DRIVE or REVERSE. The vehicle may also exhibit a lack of engine revolutions per minute (RPM), lack of acceleration on take off and/or shudder while driving. This may be due to the torque converter overheating causing damage to the torque converter as well as possible internal damage to the transmission. To correct this condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to replace the torque converter and specified internal transmission components that may have been damaged.
SSM 49210
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare for a turbocharger to leak oil. To isolate the source of the leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 General Information > Diagnosis and Testing > Engine > Engine Oil Leaks - Fluorescent Oil Additive Method procedure. When an oil leak is present at a turbocharger oil supply or drain tube, remove the affected oil tube and inspect for damage, and replace the O-ring seals, pedestal gasket or oil tube as required. Refer to WSM, Section 303-04. For claiming, use the affected oil tube or pedestal gasket as the causal part and applicable labor operations in Sections 6 and 9 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
TSB 20-2255
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F150/Focus/CMAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/ Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-2019 EcoSport vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience various SYNC performance related concerns. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure.
19M01 S1
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2019 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles Equipped with a 3.7L Engine Catalytic Converter Extended Coverage This program extends the warranty coverage of the catalytic converters to 11 years of service or 120,000 miles from the warranty start date of the vehicle, whichever occurs first
TSB 20-2233
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
This article supersedes TSB 19-2026 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2000 and newer Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended.
SSM 48989
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2017-2019 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit various noise concerns while turning. Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02 Power Steering > Diagnosis and Testing has been updated with improved information to aid with accurate noise diagnosis. Replacing the steering gear may not necessarily eliminate the noise concern. Use Chassis Ears on all suspected components to accurately diagnose noise concerns.
SSM 48908
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a SYNC 3 Touchscreen may experience the volume control unresponsive from the Front Control Interface Module (FCIM) and steering volume controls when using Apple Car Play. When the Apple device is removed, volume control is restored. This is due to a concern with the Waze Navigation App software and Apple iOS version. To correct the condition, update the Waze App software and iOS to the latest version available and reboot the customer's Apple device. Perform an ignition cycle and reconnect the Apple device via USB. Open Apple Car Play and confirm volume control is restored. Installing/Updating third party software/applications is not warrantable.
SSM 48876
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For 2013-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles that require rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly repairs, dealers are advised to follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Procedures and use service parts recommended by Ford only. Ford has received reports of toe link failures after the installation of non-OEM cross-axial ball joints (aka bushings) in the rear wheel knuckle, and if service of the rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly is required, the recommended repair is to replace the affected 5B758/9 as an assembly only. Refer to WSM, Section 204-02, and the Ford Service Parts Catalog as needed.
SSM 48858
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2012-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit an inoperative remote start with a 'Vehicle Failed To Start' message when using MyFord Mobile/Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile applications. The cellular cloud systems will only allow two remote start requests from the MyFord Mobile/Ford Pass/Lincoln Way apps without a vehicle drive event occurring. If a third remote start request is received, a Vehicle Failed To Start message will be displayed quickly in the mobile app. Once the vehicle is driven, the remote start counter is reset and will allow remote start commands to be sent from the mobile app. If the remote start system is not functioning using the key fob, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 303-06 for further diagnosis.
SSM 48834
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2017-2019 Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may exhibit various noise concerns while turning. Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02 Power Steering > Diagnosis and Testing is in the process of being updated with improved information to aid with accurate noise diagnosis. Replacing the steering gear may not necessarily eliminate the noise concern. Use Chassis Ears on all suspected components to accurately diagnose noise concerns. Monitor OASIS for updates.
TSB 20-2171
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus,2015-2019 MKC, 2015-2020 Edge/F150/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017-2020 F-Super Duty, 2018-2020 EcoSport/Expedition, 2019-2020 Ranger/Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or a clunk/thump noise on turns. This may be due to the seat pan track. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to install a reinforcement.
SSM 48821
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
For 2013-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles that require rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly repairs, dealers are advised to follow Workshop Manual (WSM) Procedures and use service parts recommended by Ford only. Ford has received reports of toe link failures after the installation of non-OEM cross-axial ball joints in the rear wheel knuckle, and if service of the rear wheel knuckle and bushing assembly is required, the recommended repair is to replace the affected 5B758/9 assembly. Refer to WSM, Section 204-02, and the Ford Service Parts Catalog as needed.
TSB 20-2154
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Some 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit roof rail covers that become loose or partially detached. This may be caused by a lack of retention of the clips securing the roof rail covers. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to replace the retaining clips and apply adhesive to the roof rail covers.
18B19-S1
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints. Certain 2017 Model Year Continental Livery Vehicles - Exterior Door Handle Replacement
17B25-S5
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints
17G01-S2
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Rear Suspension Toe Link Replacement
17B25-S4
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints
17B25-S3
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints
17B25-S1
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints
17B25
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Certain 2013-2017 Model Year Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles - Exhaust Odor and Carbon Monoxide Complaints
SSM 45914
Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
SOME 2017 POLICE UTILITY VEHICLES BUILT ON OR BEFORE 6/23/2016 AND EQUIPPED WITH THE DARK CAR OPTION MAY EXHIBIT THE DARK CAR FEATURE NOT ENABLING. TO ADDRESS THIS CONCERN, UPDATE THE AS-BUILT DATA IN THE BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM). MAKE SURE YOU ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET WHEN PROGRAMMING AS BUILT DATA. DURING UPDATE PROCESS, WHEN PROMPTED BY IDS TO USE MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC DATA RETRIEVAL, SELECT AUTOMATIC TO OBTAIN THE LATEST CONFIGURATION. USE APPLICABLE LABOR OPERATIONS IN SECTION 10 OF THE SLTS MANUAL AND CAUSAL PART 15604.