Ford Explorer Ford Explorer

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Ford Explorer repairs by problem area

Engine (25%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (16%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (19%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (9%)

Other (6%)

Chart based on 1662 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Ford Explorer.

Ford Explorer repair cost distribution

$2500+ (4%)

$1000 - $2499 (9%)

$500 - $999 (16%)

$100 - $499 (39%)

< $100 (32%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 1094 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

Ford Explorer problems by year

1996 - 2001 (11%)

2002 - 2005 (34%)

2006 - 2010 (24%)

2011 - 2015 (25%)

2016 - 2019 (4%)

2020 - present (2%)

Chart based on 1683 repair trips.
See TrueDelta's information for all SUVs
See TrueDelta's information for all Ford models.

What Our Members Are Saying about the Personal Experiences of the Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer Personal Experiences: Pros
YearBody/PowertrainComment
2007 4dr SUV 210-horsepower 4.0L V6
5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range
This is my third Explorer. Reliability has been excellent. full 2007 Ford Explorer review
2006 4dr SUV 292-horsepower 4.6L V8
6-speed automatic 4WD w/low range
I have always had good success with Ford trucks in terms of capability, reliability and dependability. full 2006 Ford Explorer review
2004 4dr SUV 210-horsepower 4.0L V6
5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range
My 97 Explorer XLT (w/ 4.0L V6 and 5-speed MANUAL transmission) was a fantastic first SUV. I regret trading it in, but the 2004 seemed like such a bargain at the time. full 2004 Ford Explorer review
2004 4dr SUV 210-horsepower 4.0L V6
5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range
Room, solid, offroad ability. full 2004 Ford Explorer review
Ford Explorer Personal Experiences: Cons
YearBody/PowertrainComment
2002 4dr SUV 239-horsepower 4.6L V8
5-speed automatic 4WD w/low range
We had issues with the air conditioning system that was covered under the extended warranty that we purchased, and also recently with the transmission that we replace at our own expense. full 2002 Ford Explorer review
 

Ford Explorer Problems and Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently Ford Explorer problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.