I have been in the Market for an ST now for several weeks and had the same issue. I went to a dealership an hour away that had 4 STs listed on their sites and even called to confirm they were sellable. The salesman told me that they were and I would be able to drive it off the lot the same day (last Thursday June, 26). When I got there, I was informed that they would not be able to sell it to me and asked what alternate vehicles I liked. I had brought my whole family with me too so it was a waste of everyone's evening. I told them I had even checked for the recall on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website (NHSTA) before going and no recalls were listed. I have been searching the internet for news and information regarding the recall because Ford hasn't said much. The dealer doesn't even know much on about what's going on and Ford has not said much either. This is what I know so far.
The recall effects vehicles that were in production October 19, 2018 through May 2, 2023 from the Chicago assembly plant (All Explorers come from here). Including 2020, 2021, 2022, and this years model (2023). That part was taken out of production May 2nd, 2023. If you find one produced on May 2nd 2023 or after that day, and lookup the recall on Ford's internal site, they should be in the clear. The problem is most if not all those produced after that date are still in transit. I found one on Fords website in transit that was supposed to arrive beginning of this week (June 26, 2023) at the Dealership that was produced after the May 2nd date, but it's still not there. I have called 6 other dealerships that have ones produced after the May 2nd, 2023 date and they are all in transit.
If you look at the Window sticker, you can see the production date in the last 6 digits of where I highlighted on the attached picture. Double check that VIN on
https://www.ford.com/support/recalls-details/ and if you a green check mark and the message "You’re all set! There are no recalls for this vehicle. " you should be able to buy that when it arrives.
Otherwise you won't be able to buy any that are currently on the lot produced Before May 2, 2023 until Ford comes up with a solution for the recall. According to Ford, they were supposed to send out mail regarding the Recall by June 26, 2023. I haven't seen any updates from Ford.
If anyone has any suggestions on how to get one please let me know. I have been searching for a car for several months now. I originally wanted an RT Durango and almost bought one but it didn't work out. After that I decided I wanted the Ford ST after learning about it and what features and specs. I am starting to run out of patience.
Good luck
