2020 Ford Explorer Tail Lights – Troubleshooting, Replacement
The 2020 Ford Explorer features a sophisticated LED tail light system designed for high visibility and modern aesthetics. Whether you are dealing with a hairline crack from a trail mishap or a flickering diode, understanding how to service these assemblies can save you hundreds in dealership labor costs. This guide provides a professional walkthrough for maintaining, removing, and upgrading your rear illumination system safely.
Maintaining the clarity and functionality of your vehicle’s lighting is more than just a cosmetic concern; it is a fundamental safety requirement. If you have noticed moisture inside your lens or a complete dark spot in your signaling, you are likely facing a common issue with modern sealed units. Keeping your 2020 ford explorer tail lights in top condition ensures you remain visible to other drivers during heavy rain or dusty off-road excursions.
I understand how frustrating it is to see a “Bulb Out” warning on your dash, especially when modern assemblies feel like a “black box” of electronics. I promise that by the end of this article, you will have the confidence to diagnose and replace your own lighting components using basic hand tools. We will preview the exact bolt locations, the wiring harness nuances, and the best aftermarket options for those looking to customize their rig.
Understanding the Design of 2020 Ford Explorer Tail Lights
The sixth-generation Explorer moved toward a more integrated lighting approach compared to its predecessors. Most trims come standard with LED signature lighting, which offers faster rise times and longer life spans than traditional halogen bulbs. However, this means the units are often “sealed,” meaning individual “bulbs” aren’t always replaceable.
If a single segment of the brake light fails, you are typically looking at replacing the entire housing rather than a two-dollar bulb. This design choice improves weather resistance but increases the cost of repairs. It is important to identify if your specific trim uses the standard red lens or the sportier smoked versions found on the ST or Platinum models.
The assembly is divided into two main parts: the body-mounted outer lamp and the liftgate-mounted inner lamp. Each serves a specific purpose, with the outer unit handling primary braking and signaling, while the inner unit often handles reverse lights and parking illumination. Knowing which side has failed is the first step in your diagnostic journey.
LED vs. Incandescent Components
While the primary “C-clamp” signature is LED, some lower-tier fleet models or specific regional variants might still use incandescent bulbs for turn signals or reverse lights. Always check your owner’s manual or pull the assembly to verify the connector type before ordering parts. Using the wrong wattage or an incompatible LED resistor can trigger hyper-flashing or “bulb out” errors in the Body Control Module (BCM).
For the DIYer, this means you need to be careful with the electrical connectors. Modern Fords use a Can-Bus system that monitors current draw. If you install a cheap aftermarket unit, the computer might think the light is broken because the resistance is too low, cutting power to that circuit entirely as a safety measure.
Common Problems with 2020 Ford Explorer Tail Lights
One of the most frequent complaints from owners involves condensation buildup. While a small amount of misting is normal due to atmospheric changes, standing water inside the lens indicates a broken seal. This moisture can eventually corrode the internal circuit board, leading to total failure of the LED strip.
Another issue is physical damage to the mounting tabs. The 2020 model uses plastic guide pins that can become brittle over time. If you have been driving on washboard gravel roads or frequent off-road trails, the vibrations can cause these pins to rub against the body, leading to a loose fit or even a “rattle” that eventually cracks the housing.
When inspecting the 2020 ford explorer tail lights, look for hairline fractures near the top edge. These are often caused by the liftgate’s power-close mechanism if the gate is slightly misaligned. If the gate strikes the light assembly even slightly every time it closes, the plastic will eventually give way, allowing water to ingress.
Troubleshooting Flickering and Dimming
If your lights are flickering, it is rarely a “loose bulb.” Instead, check the ground wire (usually black or green/yellow) at the harness connector. Corrosion on the pins is a common culprit, especially in “salt belt” states where road brine can spray up behind the rear bumper and into the wiring cavity.
You can use a digital multimeter to check for consistent 12V power at the plug. If the power is steady but the light flickers, the internal driver board of the tail light is failing. In this scenario, replacement is the only reliable fix, as these boards are encased in resin and cannot be easily soldered by a hobbyist.
Essential Tools for DIY Tail Light Maintenance
Before you start pulling panels, gather the right gear. You don’t need a professional shop setup, but having the correct sizes will prevent you from stripping plastic fasteners. A 10mm deep socket is the most critical tool for this specific vehicle, as the mounting bolts are recessed.
- 10mm Socket and Ratchet: Used for the main mounting bolts.
- Plastic Trim Removal Tool: Essential for popping off the interior covers without scratching the paint.
- Microfiber Cloth: To clean the area behind the light once it is removed.
- Dielectric Grease: To protect the electrical connectors from future corrosion.
- Nitrous Gloves: To keep skin oils off the lenses and protect your hands from sharp plastic edges.
Avoid using a flathead screwdriver to pry the light assembly away from the body. The 2020 Explorer has very tight tolerances, and a metal tool will almost certainly chip the paint or crack the edge of the lens. A plastic pry tool distributes the pressure more evenly across the surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing 2020 Ford Explorer Tail Lights
Replacing the 2020 ford explorer tail lights is a task that should take about 20 to 30 minutes per side. Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the ignition is completely off. For added safety, you can disconnect the negative battery terminal, though it isn’t strictly necessary for a simple housing swap.
Start by opening the rear liftgate fully. You will see two small plastic covers on the inner edge of the tail light area, near the weatherstripping. These covers hide the mounting bolts. Use your trim tool to gently pop these covers off, revealing the 10mm bolts underneath.
- Remove the Bolts: Unscrew the two 10mm bolts. Keep them in a magnetic tray so they don’t roll into the bumper cavity.
- Disengage the Pins: Grasp the tail light assembly firmly. Pull it straight back toward the rear of the vehicle. Do not pull outward (to the side), as this will snap the plastic alignment pins located on the fender side.
- Disconnect the Harness: Once the light is free from the body, you will see the wiring harness. Press the release tab on the connector and pull it apart.
- Clean the Cavity: Use your microfiber cloth to wipe away the dirt and debris that accumulates behind the light. This prevents rust and ensures a better seal for the new unit.
- Install the New Unit: Plug the harness into the new assembly until you hear a “click.” Align the guide pins with the rubber grommets on the body and push the unit forward into place.
- Secure and Test: Reinstall the two 10mm bolts and snap the plastic covers back on. Test all functions—parking lights, brake lights, and turn signals—before driving.
Working on the Liftgate Inner Lights
If you need to replace the inner portion of the light located on the liftgate itself, the process involves removing the interior trim panel. This is slightly more complex as it involves several plastic clips and hidden screws. Start by removing the pull handle and then gently prying the large plastic panel away from the metal gate frame.
Once the panel is off, you will have direct access to the nuts holding the inner light assembly. Be careful not to drop these nuts into the hollow of the liftgate, or they will rattle every time you open the trunk. Use a telescoping magnet if you feel the nut slipping during removal.
Upgrading to Aftermarket Options for Off-Roaders
For those who take their Explorer off the beaten path, the factory lights can feel a bit vulnerable. Many owners opt for smoked LED assemblies or units with reinforced polycarbonate lenses. These aftermarket options often provide a more aggressive look and can sometimes offer better side-illumination for night-time trail spotting.
When choosing an aftermarket brand, look for “DOT-Compliant” markings. This ensures the lights meet federal safety standards for brightness and reflectivity. Some “off-road only” lights are too dim for highway use and could lead to legal issues or, worse, a rear-end collision because other drivers couldn’t see your brake lights clearly in the sun.
If you choose to install sequential turn signals, ensure the kit includes a built-in resistor. Without it, the 2020 Explorer’s computer may interpret the pulsing signal as a failing bulb, leading to an annoying dashboard warning. High-quality brands like Morimoto or AlphaRex are popular choices for their plug-and-play compatibility.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
To keep your lights looking new, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges when washing your car. The clear coat on the plastic lenses is susceptible to UV degradation. Applying a high-quality automotive wax or a ceramic coating to the lenses twice a year can prevent the yellowing and hazing commonly seen on older vehicles.
Check the rubber gaskets around the mounting bolts annually. If these gaskets dry out or crack, they can allow water to seep into the quarter panel, leading to hidden rust. A tiny dab of silicone lubricant on the rubber grommets where the alignment pins seat will make future removals much easier and prevent the plastic from squeaking.
If you notice a small crack but aren’t ready to buy a new assembly, you can use a clear tail light repair tape as a temporary measure. This prevents water from entering the electronics. However, this is only a “band-aid” fix; the internal LEDs will eventually fail if exposed to oxygen and moisture for too long.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 Ford Explorer Tail Lights
Can I replace just the lens if it is cracked?
No, the 2020 Explorer tail light is a factory-sealed unit. The lens is thermally bonded to the housing. Attempting to cut the lens off usually results in a leak-prone assembly. You must replace the entire housing if the lens is damaged.
Why is my tail light dim compared to the other side?
A dim light usually indicates a poor ground connection or a failing LED driver board. Check the connector for green corrosion. If the pins are clean, the internal LEDs are likely reaching the end of their service life or have been damaged by heat.
Are the ST tail lights compatible with the XLT model?
Yes, the physical dimensions and wiring connectors for the 2020 ford explorer tail lights are generally the same across trim levels. You can swap the smoked ST-style lights onto an XLT or Limited for a more custom appearance without needing to modify the wiring.
What should I do if my tail lights stay on after the car is off?
This is rarely a fault of the light itself. It is usually caused by a faulty brake light switch located under the dashboard near the brake pedal. If the switch is stuck, the computer thinks you are constantly pressing the brakes and will keep the lights illuminated, which can drain your battery.
How do I remove heavy scratches from the lens?
Light scratches can be buffed out using a plastic polishing compound and a dual-action polisher. For deeper scratches, you may need to wet-sand with 2000-grit sandpaper followed by a polishing step. Always re-apply a UV-protectant clear coat afterward.
Final Thoughts on Lighting Safety
Taking care of your vehicle’s lighting is a simple way to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road. Whether you are replacing a damaged unit or upgrading for a better look, the process for the 2020 Explorer is straightforward enough for any DIYer to handle. Just remember to work slowly, use the right tools, and always double-check your connections.
By following these steps, you keep your Explorer looking sharp and functioning perfectly, whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a cross-country adventure. Don’t let a simple lighting issue turn into a safety hazard or a costly ticket. Grab your 10mm socket and take control of your vehicle’s maintenance today!
Stay safe and stay visible!
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