As the semiconductor chip shortage continues to cause major issues with automotive production, many automakers have sought to sell vehicles without certain features, including auto start/stop. As Ford Authority reported last September, this was the case – at least temporarily – with the 2022 Ford Explorer – and those that chose to do so received a $50 credit while also potentially speeding up the delivery process. Now, sources familiar with the matter have told Ford Authority that the 2022 Ford Explorer has now regained that same auto start/stop removal option once again, as is also the case with the 2022 Ford F-150.
The auto start/stop removal option is listed under option code 52X and as before, only applies to models equipped with Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. That means it will be available on 2022 Explorer Base, XLT, Timberline, and Limited trims, but not on Limited Hybrid, King Ranch, Platinum, Platinum Hybrid, and ST models.
As was previously the case, those that choose to opt-out of auto stop/start will receive a $50 credit for their troubles, while fuel economy labels will be updated to reflect the change. Those that opt for auto start/stop removal will also improve their chances of taking delivery of those vehicles sooner.
In addition to the 2022 F-150 and Explorer, Ford recently rolled out de-contented Ford Puma Design and Ford EcoSport Design models in Europe, which come equipped with fewer chips and fewer features as it continues to battle supply chain issues that recently forced the automaker to temporarily close a number of its assembly plants. Meanwhile, the chip shortage continues to pose a major problem to production, one that isn’t expected to end until either later in 2022 or through the duration of 2023, depending on whom one asks.
We’ll have more on the 2022 Explorer soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Explorer news and non-stop Ford news coverage.
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It is very depressing to see articles that ford sales efforts have been rated very low. I have a son at a ford dealership who has struggled for more than a year trying to support his family. When people inquire about vehicle availability , such as me, dealerships cannot provide any specific delivery dates and yet they expect future customers to be patient. Ford must work harder in the production arena and quit passing the blame to sales personnel.