2023 Ford Explorer: Push button start failure
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2023 Explorer report: push button start failure. CarComplaints.com lists 1 owner complaints, average mileage 66,000 miles.
NHTSA has 14 owner complaints for the 2023 Explorer in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11771139 (filed 10/14/2026): “I am filing this complaint because the federal recall remedy performed on my 2023 ford explorer failed, and the ford dealership that performed it refused to correct the failure. about a year after i purchased my 2023 ford explorer (used, from an independent de…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11746273 (filed 06/24/2026): “Vehicle: 2023 ford explorer st vin: [xxx] i am reporting ongoing safety-related powertrain and drivability defects that continue despite numerous repair attempts, including complete engine and transmission replacement. since approximately june 2025, my vehic…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: none clearly reported. Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Moderate
Finding and splicing chewed wiring is doable with a multimeter and patience but can be time-consuming; harness replacement is pro work. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range: get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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