r/FordExplorer • • 12h ago

Technology/Features Gemini in 2026 Explorer

1 Upvotes

Hey folks.

I have a 2026 ST-Line that I bought in August and when I got it and was looking through settings I had found I could use Gemini AI instead of the default Google assistant for the native vehicle assistant (single press of the talk button). Yesterday I took it in for a recall for the computer and they reset it all and now the option to turn on Gemini instead of the not AI assistant is gone. I’ve tried everything but I can’t seem to get the option back under. I swear it was under Settings > Google > Voice Assistant before but it’s just not there.

Anyone had a similar experience and was able to get it back? I have my Google account logged in and anything else ChatGPT suggested like changing the language back and force and such.

Thanks!!


r/FordExplorer • • 15h ago

Repair Advice 2026 Explorer - Rearview Mirror Vibrates

1 Upvotes

Does anyone experience their rearview mirror vibrating when driving? It's just a slight vibration, enough to have the image a bit out of focus, not crazy. I can't find a way to stop it from doing this.


r/FordExplorer • • 5h ago

Repair Advice Is this a PTU Leak?

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2 Upvotes

Hi all,

My 2012 xlt has been leaving some black oily marks on my driveway. I got a chance to crawl under it and found the fluid is coming from what I think is the PTU? It's closer to the drivers side on the right side of the transmission. Is this actually the PTU and what is involved in servicing this? Also is that a crack wrapped around that bolt and running toward the drive shaft? Maybe a seal or weld bead?


r/FordExplorer • • 6h ago

Buying Advice 38800K OTD Explorer Active RWD + Comfort Package a good deal?

1 Upvotes

As the title says, I'm offered an Explorer Active RWD + Comfort Package for 38800K OTD (TTL Included). MSRP is 45525. Has captain seats 2nd row. Is it a good deal? it is a loaner with about 4K miles on it. ST Lines were seeing 10K off MSRP some time back. In June I was quoted 43400 OTD (TTL included/ MSRP 50160) for ST Line. I don't know if I should wait for better pricing for Black Friday.


r/FordExplorer • • 13h ago

Upgrade Advice Best reliability and QOL improvements on 2020+?

1 Upvotes

Hey all, I just got a used ST and wondering what I should be doing to it first (after basic maintenance ofc).

So far what's on my radar is:

-Hood struts

-Check lug nuts for swelling, maybe replace with spline drive (Do you really need the bulge style for the 21" rims?)

-Jailbreak the infotainment for fullscreen AA/carplay?

-Diff bolt recall is done. Not sure if I really need a brace when I'm not planning power mods, but I do have the skills and equipment to fab my own.

Anything else? What did you do to yours first?