NHTSA Service Bulletin 11032690: 2024, 2025 Ford Explorer
Official manufacturer communication context for 2024, 2025 Ford Explorer, with affected products, buyer checks and links into Carchieve recall, problem and VIN research.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA manufacturer communication and service bulletin records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
Some 20242025 Explorer vehicles built on 01-Feb-2024 and through 31-Jul-2024 may exhibit a rattle/clunk/knock noise from the front suspension at low speeds between 830 mph (1348 km/h) over harsh/uneven pavement such as cracks and small bumps while driving straight (not while turning). This condition may be due to a loose pressure tube within the front strut assembly and may be present in either front strut. In some cases, a louder noise from one strut can mask a lesser noise from the opposite strut, which may result in only one strut being replaced and a repeat visit if the other strut later becomes apparent. When diagnosing, evaluate both front struts for the concern. To repair, replace the affected front strut(s) as necessary. For claiming, use causal part 18124 and labor operation 18124A (one side) or 18124AT (both sides). If the noise persists, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 204-01 for normal diagnostics.
What this bulletin may mean before buying
Treat this as service research, not a verdict on one car. Before you buy, compare this communication with official recall campaigns, model-level owner complaint patterns, and the exact vehicle’s VIN-decoded specifications. A bulletin can help you ask a seller or dealer sharper questions about software updates, known repairs, warranty extensions and service history.
Affected products listed in this communication
Buyer checklist
- Run the 17-character VIN and confirm the year, make, model, engine and equipment match the listing.
- Check recall campaign pages for safety actions that may require dealer repair.
- Compare this bulletin with common problem pages for the same model and component area.
- Ask the seller or dealer whether the bulletin procedure, update or inspection has already been completed.
- Use the used-car buying checklist and get an independent inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What is NHTSA service bulletin 11032690?
Some 20242025 Explorer vehicles built on 01-Feb-2024 and through 31-Jul-2024 may exhibit a rattle/clunk/knock noise from the front suspension at low speeds between 830 mph (1348 km/h) over harsh/uneven pavement such as cracks and small bumps while driving straight (not while turning). This condition may be due to a loose pressure tube within the front strut assembly and may be present in either front strut. In.
Is a service bulletin the same as a recall?
No. A recall is a safety campaign with a required remedy for affected VINs. A service bulletin or manufacturer communication usually describes diagnostic, repair, software, warranty or service information.
How should a used-car buyer use this bulletin?
Use it as a research signal. Compare it with recalls, owner complaints, service records, a VIN report and an independent inspection before buying.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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