2013 Ford Explorer Fuel System Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are fuel system problems on the 2013 Ford Explorer?
153 owners have reported fuel system problems on the 2013 Ford Explorer, 7% of all complaints for this year and the 5th most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 25,000–86,000 miles. 3 recalls cover this area.
153 complaints 7% of all 2013 complaints 51,000 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 (111 of 153). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Fuel System complaints by the year the problem happened.
Fuel System complaints by Explorer year
Related recalls
Fuel pump module may crack and leak fuel
Fire riskThe fuel delivery module can crack, letting fuel leak out. If the leaking fuel meets an ignition source, it may cause a fire.
Fix: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module free of charge, and Ford will notify owners by mail.
Recall 15V812000 · Dec 2015Cracked fuel module can leak fuel
Fire riskThe fuel delivery module may crack, letting fuel leak out. If that fuel meets an ignition source, it can cause a fire.
Fix: Dealers will replace the fuel delivery module free of charge (Ford recall campaign 13S04).
Recall 13V227000 · May 2013Tank assembly
Fire riskIn the affected vehicles, the fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank. As a result, the fuel tanks may not provide the expected strength in the event of an impact. The tanks may also leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03.
Recall 13V109000 · Mar 2013Get an email when your 2013 Ford Explorer gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2013 Ford Explorer, you'll hear about it the same week.
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Other 2013 Ford Explorer problems
Common questions
What are common 2013 Ford Explorer fuel system problems?
Complaints most often name the fuel pump and throttlebody / manifold.
At what mileage do 2013 Ford Explorer fuel system problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 25,000–86,000 miles. The middle value is about 51,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2013 Ford Explorer fuel system problems?
Yes: 15V812000, 13V227000, 13V109000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which Explorer year has the most fuel system complaints?
The 2013 Explorer, with 153 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.