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C0631 on FORD EXPLORER

Front Axle Disconnect Actuator

NHTSA Reports
7
Severity
High
Most Affected
2020
Crashes / Fires
0 / 0
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012

What C0631 Means on Your FORD EXPLORER

C0631 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Front Axle Disconnect Actuator. This code relates to the chassis system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

7 FORD EXPLORER owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2020. Most reports come from the 2020 model year.

Real FORD EXPLORER Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"SUMMARY OF FACTS FOR LEGAL CONSULTATION Bad Faith Redhibition Claim — Louisiana Civil Code Art. 2545 Prepared for Attorney Consultation 1."

— 2020 FORD EXPLORER owner · POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION · Filed 01/26/2026

"On [XXX], after starting my vehicle, I received multiple safety warnings, prompting the check engine light and a wrench icon on the dashboard."

— 2020 FORD EXPLORER owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER · Filed 06/25/2025

"1. Component: AWD system – Front Axle Disconnect Actuator / Intermediate Shaft • Failure Type: AWD system failed, preventing power transfer to front wheels • Availability for Inspection: Yes, diagnosed and confirmed by Zeigler Lincoln Ford 2."

— 2020 FORD EXPLORER owner · POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER · Filed 12/05/2024

"We bought this our ST in April and just our luck it has passed the 5-year mark.....no powertrain warranty for us, darn. On Wednesday, during the 30-minute drive home from work, my spouse reported a fault indicator on the dash related to 4WD or AWD being inoperable."

— 2020 FORD EXPLORER owner · POWER TRAIN,ENGINE · Filed 10/30/2024

"Vehicle is giving a code C0631 and C0632 also has a wrench light indicator on it has something to do with the AWD the vehicle will become hard to turn stall completely will not move and a loss of power occurs"

— 2020 FORD EXPLORER owner · STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN · Filed 08/30/2024

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

7
'20

Common Causes on FORD EXPLORER

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

POWER TRAIN,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION 14.3%
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN or OTHER 14.3%
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,UNKNOWN or OTHER 14.3%
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE 14.3%
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN 14.3%

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C0631 mean on a FORD EXPLORER?
C0631 indicates: Front Axle Disconnect Actuator. This is a chassis code. 7 FORD EXPLORER owners have reported this to NHTSA.
What are the most common causes of C0631 on FORD EXPLORER?
Based on 7 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Power Train,Forward Collision Avoidance,Back Over Prevention, Power Train,Electrical System,Unknown Or Other, Power Train,Wheels,Unknown Or Other. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.
Is C0631 serious on my FORD EXPLORER?
Of 7 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD EXPLORER, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.
What should I do if my FORD EXPLORER shows C0631?
1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.

C0631 on Other Vehicles