The Ford Explorer has earned strong industry ratings over the years, though some model years stand out more than others. Introduced by Ford Motor Company in the early 1990s, the first-generation Ford Explorer helped shape the modern SUV market and remains popular till today.
Buyers upgrading from a compact SUV often appreciate the Ford Explorer’s three-row seating and stronger build.
Ford Explorer Reliability Rating:
- According to J.D. Power consumer ratings, the Ford Explorer scores 79/100 overall, with a 78/100 rating for quality and reliability.
- Edmunds ranks the 2026 Ford Explorer #6 among 17 midsize SUVs, with a 3.6/5 user review rating.
- U.S. News & World Report ranks the 2026 Ford Explorer #19 in the midsize SUVs category with an overall score of 8.5/10.
Best Model Years:
- 2009: Rugged build quality, durability, smoother ride, and improved comfort
- 2013: Better handling, improved fuel economy, and solid performance from the 3.5L V6 engine
- 2019: Practical three-row space and user-friendly infotainment system
- 2021: Spacious interior, rear-wheel-drive chassis, and hybrid availability
- 2025: Refined EcoBoost engine options, upgraded tech, and improved fuel economy compared to earlier models. Also, awarded Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
Worst Model Years:
- 2002: Transmission failures, suspension issues, and expensive repairs
- 2004: Transmission problems, engine failure, and electrical system problems
- 2006: Radiator, coolant system, and fuel system issues with poor fuel economy
- 2011: Power steering failures and infotainment glitches
- 2013: Transmission problems, exhaust odor complaints, and electrical issues
- 2016: Jerky transmission, cooling system problems, and interior quality concerns
- 2017: Transmission failures, infotainment issues, and rear suspension fault
Keep reading if you want to know more about Ford Explorer reliability — best model years, problematic trims, upkeep costs, and warranty features. We’ll also share easy maintenance tips to keep your Explorer in good shape and avoid expensive repairs.
This Article Contains:
- What Industry Rankings and Reviews Say About Ford Explorer Reliability
- What Are the Ownership and Maintenance Costs of a Ford Explorer?
- 5 Popular Ford Explorer Models Over the Years
- 7 Problematic Ford Explorer Years
- How Does the Ford Explorer Compare to Competitors?
- What Safety Features Does the Ford Explorer Offer?
- How to Maintain Your Ford Explorer
- What Warranty and Coverage Options Come with a Ford Explorer?
What Industry Rankings and Reviews Say About Ford Explorer Reliability
Here’s what industry experts say about a Ford Explorer’s dependability:
A. J.D. Power Consumer Rating, 2026
These reliability scores evaluate vehicles based on long-term dependability and owner-reported problems.
The Ford Explorer scored as follows:
- Overall score: 79/100
- Quality and reliability: 78/100
B. Edmunds, 2026
The 2026 Ford Explorer is ranked #6 among 17 midsize three-row SUVs. It has earned 3.6/5 in user reviews. Edmunds vehicle ratings are based on road-test performance, comfort, interior quality, technology, and consumer feedback.
C. U.S. News and World Report, 2026
These vehicle ratings are based on factors such as performance, safety, reliability, interior comfort, technology, and fuel economy. The 2026 Ford Explorer is currently ranked #19 in the midsize SUVs category and has an overall score of 8.5/10.
A strong Ford Explorer reliability rating is important, but a vehicle’s true dependability often comes down to its long-term maintenance costs.
What Are the Ownership and Maintenance Costs of a Ford Explorer?
The average annual maintenance cost for the Ford Explorer is approximately $730. This is higher than the midsize SUV average of $573 and the overall industry average of $650.
This is how the Explorer’s maintenance costs compare to other models, like the Ford Ranger, Ford Expedition, and Ford Flex:
| Model | Maintenance costs |
| Ford Ranger (midsize pickup truck) | $615 |
| Ford Expedition (full-size SUV) | $861 |
| Ford Flex (full-size crossover SUV) | $713 |
In terms of repair frequency, Ford Explorer owners typically visit a repair shop for unscheduled repairs about 0.2 times per year. This is lower than the average of 0.4 visits for both midsize SUVs and vehicles overall.
Also, around 14% of Ford Explorer repairs are considered major issues, slightly above the average for midsize SUVs (13%) and all vehicle models (12%).
NOTE: A newer model may require fewer major repairs during the initial years of ownership.
With an understanding of Ford Explorer’s upkeep costs, let’s identify the model years that are easier to maintain.
5 Popular Ford Explorer Models Over the Years
Here are some reliable Ford Explorer years worth investing in:
- 2009: The 2009 Ford Explorer is one of the most reliable vehicles for drivers who want traditional SUV toughness with truck-like build quality. It refined many of the earlier Ford Explorer generation’s issues by offering improved everyday comfort while still maintaining its rugged design.
- 2013: This Ford SUV stands out for its composed handling, improved fuel efficiency, and a 3.5L V6 engine providing solid everyday performance.
- 2019: The 2019 Ford Explorer offers a straightforward infotainment system and a practical three-row space that feels dependable for daily driving and long trips alike.
- 2021: This newer model benefits from the sixth Ford Explorer generation’s rear-wheel-drive chassis, giving it more confident handling and a smoother overall driving experience. Owners also appreciate its spacious interior, easy-to-use technology, and available hybrid models. This model year also shares its rear-wheel-drive-based platform with the luxury-focused Lincoln Aviator.
- 2025: This Ford Explorer year builds on the strengths of earlier models with upgraded interiors, sharper handling, and advanced driver-assistance technology. Its latest EcoBoost engine options help deliver refined performance, competitive fuel economy, and stronger towing confidence.
NOTE: If you’re looking for a sportier version of the Ford Explorer, the Ford Explorer ST may be worth considering. Unlike the standard base trim engine, the Explorer ST features a powerful turbocharged V6 setup. In contrast to many compact SUV performance models, the Ford Explorer ST also offers full-size family practicality.
Now that we’ve covered the best years, let’s explore the Ford Explorer versions that are known for frequent issues.
7 Problematic Ford Explorer Years to Avoid
Some Ford Explorer years that you might want to steer clear of are:
- 2002: This model is known for serious transmission issues, suspension troubles, and high repair costs.
- 2004: This Ford Explorer year experienced recurring transmission issues, engine failure, and electrical system problems that often led to costly repairs.
- 2006: This Ford SUV suffered from radiator, coolant system, and fuel system issues, along with poor fuel economy.
- 2011: This redesigned model faced major concerns with power steering failures and glitches in the infotainment system.
- 2013: This trim is commonly associated with transmission issues, exhaust odor complaints, and electrical system issues.
- 2016: The 2016 model received complaints about jerky transmission behavior, cooling issues, and interior quality concerns.
- 2017: This vehicle continued to face transmission failures, infotainment issues, and exhaust odors entering the cabin. This model year also features in a recent Ford recall related to rear suspension failures that could affect vehicle stability.
TIP: Before buying a used Ford Explorer, use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to review recalls and available history reports. You can check this information on the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) platform. It’s also a good idea to ask the seller or dealership for available maintenance records.
The Ford Explorer, like every vehicle, comes with both strengths and weaknesses.
But how does it perform compared to similar SUVs?
Read on to know more.
How Does the Ford Explorer Compare to Competitors?
Here’s how the Ford Explorer ratings stack up against similar automotive models like the Honda Pilot and the Chevrolet Traverse:
| Brand | J.D. Power Consumer Rating 2026 | Edmunds, 2026 (user rating) | US News and World Report (overall rating), 2026 |
| Ford Explorer | 79/100 | 3.6/5 | 8.5/10 |
| Honda Pilot | 83/100 | 4/5 | 8.7/10 |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 84/100 | 3.7/5 | 8.8/10 |
Despite scoring low, the Explorer stands out among its counterparts for its advanced safety systems.
What Safety Features Does the Ford Explorer Offer?
These features play a major role in making the Explorer a safe vehicle for everyday driving:
- Ford Co-Pilot360® technology with advanced driver-assistance features for improved safety and driver confidence.
- Adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe following distance in traffic.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert supports safer lane changes and reversing.
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking can detect hazards and help avoid collisions.
- Available BlueCruise™ technology enables hands-free highway driving.
- A 360-degree camera with a split-view display provides a bird’s-eye view for easier parking and maneuvering.
NOTE: The 2025-2026 Ford Explorer has earned the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award.
No matter how advanced a vehicle is, routine maintenance is essential for long-term reliability.
How to Maintain Your Ford Explorer
Here are some ways Ford Explorer owners can keep their vehicle in top condition and avoid costly repairs:
- Perform oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
- Rotate the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to extend tire life and maintain balanced handling.
- Test the battery annually once it reaches around three years of age to reduce the risk of sudden failure.
- Clean the exterior regularly to help protect the paint from dirt, road salt, and harsh weather conditions.
Along with routine maintenance, a warranty offers extra protection for your vehicle.
What Warranty and Coverage Options Come with a Ford Explorer?
Ford Explorer owners can enjoy the following warranty benefits:
- Every new Ford vehicle typically includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper factory warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Ford Motor Company offers four extended warranty plans: PowertrainCARE, BaseCARE, ExtraCARE, and PremiumCARE. These plans provide varying levels of coverage, ranging up to 1,000 vehicle components.
- Certified pre-owned vehicle models include a 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty and a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
TIP: Even with warranty coverage, maintaining adequate car insurance can help protect Ford Explorer owners from costly expenses related to accidents or theft.
Give Your Ford Explorer the Care It Deserves
A well-maintained Ford Explorer can reward you with years of dependable driving and far fewer surprise repair bills.
With AutoNation Mobile Service, expert car care comes right to your driveway seven days a week. You’ll also get upfront pricing and a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty on all repairs.
Book your appointment today for convenient, stress-free vehicle care.