2004, 2013, 2002, and 2006 were additional model years with serious wheel and hub issues. More on that in a bit. Records show that the most common problems vary from year to year. "@type": "FAQPage", Web fuel pump pressure test ford explorer 4.0v6 2007 by checkautosjep. Also Read: Ford explorer Years to Avoid (Avoid these models) Problems with Ford Flex 2015 A Flex 2015 owner reported that their car suddenly lost power while driving on the highway and had to be towed to a dealership. An excellent way to get a new automobile and save money is to buy a brand-new-to-you SUV. The safety of this model was good for the time being. 2002 sport trac problems were very acute along with the other. Also, avoid the V6 engine because of timing chain issues. The Ford Explorer is one of the longest-running models from Ford. It features a roomy and quiet interior that offers passengers lots of space. The SUV is well-built to last for a very long time and looks appealing all around. The 2016 Ford Explorer sits in second place for the worst year for the fifth generation, with over 1,100 complaints and 11 recalls at the NHTSA. That is unusually high for any car or truck. The Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to stay away These tools have been tried and tested by our team, they are ideal for fixing your car at home. There were a few issues with the pelvis injuries as well as a low performance of the safety cage structure that not made it to get the highest score. Nowadays the Explorer is really popular when it comes to government fleet vehicles and greatly replaced the good old Ford Victoria Police Interceptor as well as the Ford Taurus. Not that there is no better option available. When it comes to the years to avoid, we would recommend avoiding 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2016. At 80,000 miles, the paint typically began to peel off, which was early for any car. The recall recommends a software update for the power steering control module. It has earned a loyal following since its 1991 debut, and even survived an SUV-to-crossover transition in 2011. But not as good for todays standards. These two model years have the least reports of any model years on problems. Additionally, the 2013 model scored exceptionally well regarding crash test safety, and the model years 2010, 2016, and 2019 are other noteworthy ones. Furthermore, many people lost faith in the company due to the cars persistent transmission problem. So, what is the Ford Explorer? First, we learned what this model is all about and in which class of vehicles it belongs. These two model years have the least reports of any model years on problems. Its family-friendly, a joy to drive, and handles like a champ. A few minor problems with my 2002 Explorer. It had a serious transmission problem that required repairs that might have cost up to $3000, and the problem often began after 100,000 miles. This model currently is placed in between the smaller Ford Edge and the bigger Ford Expedition model. The wheelbase stayed the same at 113.7 inches and an overall length of 192.4 inches. Below is a list of the most problematic Ford Explorer models and some of the worst problems that they face., The 2002 Ford Explorer has recorded the highest number of complaints since the SUV was launched into the market in 1991 and should be avoided. Still, they are a good value for the money. It has established itself as a mainstay in the Ford SUV line-up and was most recently given the high-performance ST trim for an added boost. It has transmission issues but that is my main complaint. Source: gtcarlot.com. It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. "text": "Yes, newer Ford Explorer models are really reliable vehicles. Only looking for newer models?CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. The model experienced troubles with the engine, the rear window panel breaking, the A/C and heater, and other things. Over at JD Power, the 2009 Ford Explorer gets the nod as the highest rated of the bunch, with an overall rating of 83 out of 100. These years saw a variety of complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in 2002. The power steering recently had an issue. However, a major recall affected the high-backed seats in over 1.5 million SUVs. My only complaint with this car is that the headlights are horrible. Web1. I couldnt believe how smooth the explorer was, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and luggage room.. Starting in I have spent a lot of money trying to fix it. But as the years, went by, problems have reduced quite significantly. There were still two naturally aspirated ones. Ford }. Namely, because these models are rather new and do not have issues like the first production year models. A couple of hiccups with my 2002 Explorer. Just make sure you skip the 2006 model if youre looking at the Explorer's fourth-generation options. Only a few are problematic. If the link fractures, it may drastically affect the handling and result in an accident. } These have cooling and transmission problems. However, on JD Power, it scored 79 out of 100, which is the lowest of this best of the best batch of Explorer models (along with the 2008 Ford Explorer). The main problems of the 1996 2000 Ford Explorer models are the following: Related: Ford Explorer Alarm Going Off? The car has been very reliable thus far. Average Retail Price: $8,925 $12,900 We would not recommend looking for this model year if you are inexperienced in the used car market. . The first model debuted in 1991. The first and second-generation models engines had several issues, including symptoms of a bad timing chain, sensor, and complete engine failure. The second generation had an equal share of similar problems, including issues with the windows and windshield. This model is known under the U152 codename. I have to replace the transmission which is going to set me back 5K. },{ In terms of issues, there were a number of problems reported on the Explorer. Unfortunately, from 2003 to 2006, issues with the Ford Explorers transmission continued. "@type": "Question", Heres The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Ford Explorer Are: What Are The Best Years For The Ford Explorer? To learn more about the best and the worst of this iconic midsize SUV, continue reading. While the 2013 Ford Explorer is the worst year of the fifth generation for complaints and recalls, it should be noted that all 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorer vehicles are part of an active NHTSA investigation regarding the presence of carbon monoxide and an exhaust odor in the drivers cabin. Shop and buy your next car with confidence. JD Power has provided the Explorer with above-average ratings. On Kelley Blue Book, one review for the 2008 model was short and sweet: Overall a very good car, it only had one previous owner before me as far as I know and I havent had any major problems. It has expanded the campaign over the past two years, adding another 700,000 rides to the list. When it comes to this model the best is probably to go for a 2004 or 2005 model. We have a focus on strong photography, and engaging articles about performance, luxury and interesting cars. During the past 11 or 12 years, the Explorer has experienced very few significant problems. The 2016 Explorer had a total of 435 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,688 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. In terms of engines, there was a whole lineup of new EcoBoost engines. The best part? And got overall 5-stars on the NHTSA tests. Then we discussed the four most recent generations of the Explorer. The explorer has plenty of storage and a durable towing and hauling rating. We covered the main specs, engines, and transmissions. Most owners experienced issues with the transmission, suspension, and drivetrain. Although in its heyday it sold 430,000 units annually. 2002 Ford Explorer This 2002 Ford Explorer has been considered one of the worst vehicles on record due to a staggering number of complaints which were 3,956 in total. These have the most reports for problems on carcomplaints.com. This new model broke apart from the legacy of the Ford Ranger and Ford purposely built this model as a proper SUV. The wheelbase of this model is 112.6 inches and the overall length is 197.2 inches. Two of the worst issues reported were a blinking O/D light at 109,000 miles and a crack below the rear window at 79,000 miles., The issues most complained about in the 2003, 2004, and 2005 model years include body/paint problems followed by drivetrain and transmission problems. The other NHTSA action that is of particular concern for this year is a recall for the rear suspension toe link that may fracture. However, more than one driver at Car Complaints reported the same problem, and was told their ride was not part of the recall. But they are rare and not as common. The fifth generation of the Explorer was introduced in 2010 and 2011 was the first model year. Rear differential whining, rear differential leaks, 44 wont engage, and other difficulties of a similar nature are among the most often reported drivetrain issues with the 2002 Ford Explorer. But overall, fairly minor problems. 2013 Explorer has poor quality headlights. Not sure if all explorers are like mine but it has a few problems. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars. Lets take a look at what the Ford Explorer is and understand a little bit about the core concept of this car. Although the charges listed may be the worst-case scenario, consider that costs vary depending on the problems seriousness. Source: gtcarlot.com. Different transmission issues were reportedly present in 2006, 2002, and 2004 model years. When shopping for the midsize SUV, there is an overload of information, as the sport utility vehicle has been around for over 30 years. "text": "When it comes to the years to avoid, we would recommend avoiding 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2016. Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. Overall, this is just one of the more unreliable used Ford Explorer SUV years worth avoiding. Even though they arent as commonly reported, there are enough instances to say that such problems are widespread. Therefore, before making payments on a used Ford Explorer, it is crucial to inspect the transmission carefully. Water pump failure caused engine damage in my 2016 Explorer. What Are The Worst Years For The Ford Explorer? A 4.0L Ford Cologne V6 produces 210hp and 254lb-ft of torque. The worst model years of the Ford Explorer are 2020, 2013 to 2017, 2011, 2006, 2002, 2003, and 2004, and those that were produced between 1996 and 2000. The Ford Explorer has been on the market for a long time and has entered into its sixth generation now. 2013 Ford Explorer has had suspension issues. The 3.3L V6 is the biggest engine, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque. "name": "What Year Ford Explorer To Avoid", After only 50,000 miles I had to replace the rack and pinion. With 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle is versatile and efficient. The vehicle has had its fair share of troubles with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. It And the vehicle ranked 3 out of 5 in its rollover rating. As for the 2003, 2004, and 2005 model years, body/paint problems represented the highest number of complaints. } Owners will also enjoy a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and great fuel economy. In other words, it has so many issues that you cannot have a day of rest from this car and you just cant wait to get rid of it. But you shouldnt worry because we are going to help you out. This generation was a major revision of the second generation that was rather successful and there were changes that were made to update the looks for the 21st century. However, if you find a good deal at a reasonable mileage count, then perhaps you could risk the purchase (just make sure to consult with experts first). "acceptedAnswer": { In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the Ford Explorer. 2023 Vehicle History Inc. All Rights Reserved. The pump is inside the engine, increasing the difficulty and cost of the repair. We will focus on the specs, and we will learn the basics when it comes to the dimensions and size, engines, and transmissions used. Transmission issues, compute ecu issues, Power takeoff unit replaced. After an inspection, mechanics determined that the cars transmission had failed. It also scored terribly in rollover testing with the NHTSA. The 2013 Explorer had a total of 506 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,932 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. Other models on our years to avoid list include the 2004, 2013, and 2016. and would cost at least $1,800 to be repaired. And of course, most dealt with transmission Members save $872/year. Research, compare, and save listings, or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in So, if you want something less of a headache, these will be the ones." Now in its sixth generation, the first-ever four-door SUV produced by Ford is roaring louder than ever with a commanding exterior design, a powerful engine and updated electronics. } Like the 2002 model, similar problems also began to surface at 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Dealing with transmission problems in the 2002 Explorer. Namely, the 3.5L V6 engines are quite reliable engines. That sounds the same as the 2013 complaint, but it has not resulted in a recall for the 2016. While they waited for a recall, a few others vowed never to purchase another Ford Explorer. I share all my tips with our readers to help them out the best I can. Subsequently, it creates an optical illusion and makes it harder to see clearly when driving in the dark or in poor weather. Over at Edmunds, this owner shared some interesting figures about his 2010 Ford Explorer: They are very comfortable we have heated leather seats. Despite the Ford Explorers great reputation, there are some models that most experts and critics agree should be avoided. "@type": "Question", The IIHS also gave it a Top Safety Pick Award for the 2020 model. "@context": "https://schema.org", Best Dodge Challenger Years: Best & Worst Years (Is It Reliable? 2003 Ford Explorer. The 2006 model also had a ton of radiator leaks and other issues with the cooling system. But overall, it got an Acceptable score for the 2006 model. Electrical issues. When it rains it will shut off at random. If youre in the market for a speedy two-seater, weve got you covered. Apart from that, the rear window panel cracked at about 80,000 miles, costing approximately $500 to replace. It sits at the bottom of the list of eight, beaten by the 2002 Dodge Durango and 2002 Ford Expedition. Are you looking for a used Ford Explorer and you are looking to learn the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The 2016 model has a ton of problems with throttle body failures. This generation was produced until 2019 when it was replaced with the sixth generation. First, we are going to learn what is the Ford Explorer, then we will cover the last three generations of this model and find out the specs, common problems, reliability, best years, and also the Ford Explorer years to avoid. Suspension, shocks, tire rotors etc basically the whole front. First-generation Explorer Sport Trac (2001, 2002, 2004 and 2005 model years) About 337 complaints have been leveled against the first generation of Ford Explorer Sport Trac, making them the least reliable Sport Trac you can think of buying. "name": "How Long Is The Ford Explorer", Left head cast #6l2e, 8l2e. For the 2006 Explorer, engine and transmission problems are the most prevalent. This means that these model years are reliable.. The 2013 model also performed remarkably well on its crash test safety scores. My friends recommended the Explorer. It is a ride that can take you anywhere and get you back safely. As for what Kelley Blue Book had to say, all four models surprisingly secured an identical rating of 4.3 out of 5.0. There were many failures reported as well on the 2006 model. Here are the Sport Trac years to avoid if you want to get good value for your money. This 2011 Explorer received good scores on the crashworthiness tests it participated in. When it comes to the best year, we would recommend going for a 2018 or 2019 model year. Very few issues have been reported with the majority of the models sold during the first generation (19911994), second generation (19952001), fourth generation (20062010), fifth generation (20112019), and sixth generation (2020present). Some early Ford Explorer models interior accessories and parts have been the subject of several complaints. 1 of the windows don't go down. No idea how it happened. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The main problems of the 2006 Ford Explorer are the following: Transmission issues plagued these three model years with thousands of Explorer owners leaving negative reviews, especially by those with mileage counts of around 100,000 miles, which is when a lot of issues arose. According to reports, the wheels and hub of most Ford Explorer vehicles made in the years above failed even before 100k miles. In 2022, it received a consumer score of 81 out of 100, with great individual ratings for resale and driving experience of 83 (out of 100) for both. Brakes, radiator, I feel like getting rid of it. 2002 Explorer is old with a lot of problems. There are way too many family vacations to plan to be overcharged every month by your car insurance. Overall, a pretty clunky transmission. The wheel bearing is a issue that affects that model. The 2006 Explorer had a total of 776 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 719 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. More on that in a bit. The most common problems, according to records, change annually. "name": "What Year Ford Explorer Is Best", More on this in a bit. The 2016 Explorer is okay, there are better ones out there. One Mazda 5-speed manual transmission and two Ford 5-speed automatics. Ford Explorers Worst Years Are Marked by Failed Transmission, Possible Carbon Monoxide Leak. Finding out how much my insurance will cost is a big part of that. 10 WORST Products I Reviewed This Year!! Transmission, engine, and brake problems were alarmingly common in 2007 and 2008. Throttle body failures on the engines were common as well as some cooling issues were present in these new engines as well. The first recall appeared in June 2019, and applied to over one million vehicles. The Ford Explorer has been around for decades, but there are a few particularly troublesome model years. More precisely, the last generation is 198.8 inches long which puts it in the mid-size category." So, if you want something less of a headache, these will be the ones. When looking for a used Explorer, this will enable you to select the ideal model. The light is hard to recognize as on during the day so it's easy to have a battery die while out if the issue occurs. Today, it fills the gap that exists between the Ford Expedition and Ford Edge., Having been in production for a long time, the Explorer boasts one of the largest datasets for complaints regarding its model years. The Ford Explorer from the 2002 to 2006 model years is one of the worst used car purchases a buyer can make when all of these issues are considered. Know how and what you can negotiate. I simply love it. Even though the 2002 Ford Explorer was noted for poor reliability, the 2004 Ford Explorer should also be ranked among the worst years. The 2011 Explorer had a total of 205 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,104 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. The 2019 Ford Explorer captured a 4.3 out of 5.0 review rating on Kelley Blue Book and bagged a rating of 4.2 out of 5.0 over at Edmunds. There are hundreds of models and each of these has different generations and each one of them has different problems. The engine was replaced. Its engine logged over 240 complaints at the NHTSA, with a growing number of owners reporting a failed water pump. This includes the newer models from 2017 and some older When you shop for a new or used car, CoPilot helps you know more. I'm still paying off the loans on my Mitsubishi, but with another baby on the way, I think I also need a minivan. The fuel economy improved insignificantly, 3.5L V6 and a 3.7L V6 EcoBoost engine options. But also, the paint was a big problem as well. Also, this model is a body-on-frame similar to the predecessor. Namely, at the Chicago Assembly in Chicago, Illinois. Web fuel pump pressure test ford explorer 4.0v6 2007 by checkautosjep. "@type": "Answer", CoPilot searches every car at every dealer, every day, and ranks them based on what matters to you. Most consumers who encountered these problems were left with no choice except to overhaul their wheels and replace their hubs. Still, it retained the body on frame design but for this vehicle, Ford created a new chassis from the ground up instead borrowing from the Ranger. The 2002 Ford Explorer has recorded the highest number of complaints since the SUV was launched into the market in 1991 and should be avoided. The NHTSA issued 14 recalls, most fairly minor. Pros: Exceptional fuel economy and safety scores. The safety of the car was quite improved in comparison to the previous generations with the unibody design. Most owners experienced issues with the transmission, suspension, and drivetrain. There were a number of failures. A short selection of the worst Ford Explorer SUVs to stay away from is provided below: Due to an incredible 3,956 complaints, the 2002 Ford Explorer has been regarded as one of the worst automobiles ever produced. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show. Now lets dive into the generations of the Ford Explorer. This information was crowdsourced from Carcomplaints.com, carproblems.com, Car Talk Community, and similar platforms. The most severe engine issues usually emerge after 100,000 miles, and fixing them often costs $3,700 on average. gave the 2008 Ford Explorer a 5 out of 5 for the frontal barrier crash and side barrier crash rating. But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? To keep a driver content and safe, the ideal car has both safety features and low-cost upkeep. There are several Ford Explorer model years, both old and new, that have received numerous complaints through the years. The cars braking system and engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems. It has some fair share of problems but still is not the worst we saw. Cons: Less-than-impressive handling. In terms of engines, we can say that there were two engine options. The fuel economy is rather good, the 2.3L engine gets 20 mpg around town, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg overall. There was also a recall problem that needed to be fixed. Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the authors opinions and recommendations alone. Tell us what youreyoure looking for, and wellwell search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area. 2011-2019. "@type": "Answer", Left head cast #6l2e, 8l2e. "name": "How Long Do Ford Explorers Last", It is older so I need to repair it semi often. } The models listed below are the versions of the vehicle that you may want to steer clear of. The main problems of the 2017 Ford Explorer are the following: An interesting issue of the 2016 Ford Explorer was an electrical defect, with the wrench light staying on even after the annual maintenance servicing, typically occurring at around 8,000 miles. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great engine and exceptional amenities. These included problems with the fuel system, suspension, and brakes. The fuel economy of the 2.0L EcoBoost was rated at 20 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. All of these have complaints regarding the transmission, body/paint, interior accessories, wheels and hubs, drivetrain, windows and windshields, engine, brakes, and AC/heater., Serious transmission problems plague the 2002 Ford Explorer. Following suit, the 2004 Ford Explorer also had a window panel cracking problem, which was the subject of an outstanding 770 complaints. The Ford Explorer has been produced and marketed for about 30 years. It has remained a reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with. Most of the model years produced have recorded few complaints. Below are the examples that are safe to buy: "name": "Are Ford Explorers Reliable", I had to replace some power steering mechanisms, the low profile tires do have a short lifespan. The car exhibited aberrant acceleration and deceleration, abrupt braking, and sudden acceleration. Would you like to know more than the salesperson? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This batch of Ford Explorers have a total of 738 problems at CarComplaints.com and a combined total of 7,533 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. CoPilot doesnt work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices just the most info on the best cars. The 2005 Ford Explorer was no stranger to paint peeling off or the paint job rusting at a very early stage of the car, just like the previous vehicle model. Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year! In addition to these problems, there are a lot of electrical issues as well with malfunctioning accessories. I've been looking at a few years like the 98's, 96's and some others from 91-94. With outstanding crash-test scores and above-average interior and cargo space, the 2010 Ford Escape is one of the best model years. Quick Answer: Avoid 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2015 Ford Edge Years Like most new models, the Ford Edge had to go through some growing pains and get the bugs worked out before it could be considered a high-quality vehicle. The bolt that connected the reclining back to the seat could fail, resulting in serious injury to the driver during an accident. In this post, well provide all the information you need on Ford Explorer years to avoid. The 3.5-liter six-cylinder Explorer gets 18 miles in the city and 25 miles on the highway. The rear body panel (just below the rear window) begins to break after a certain number of miles, which was the most frequently reported problem with the 2004 Ford Explorer. Worst of 2022! It essentially birthed the modern SUV as we know it today. So, if you want something more reliable, always go for a model that is less prone to issues. More on that in a bit. (8 Causes & Solutions), https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ford/explorer, https://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/, https://www.carproblemzoo.com/ford/explorer/, https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/ford/explorer. Problems from this model year tend to appear at lower mileage, and footing the huge bill for repairs did not sit well with owners. These are used by the police in really big numbers and they proved to be quite reliable vehicles." The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this make and model so far. Here Are The Ford Explorer Years To Avoid, dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty, CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars, Here Are The Chevy Avalanche Years To Avoid, The Top 3 Least and Most Reliable Car Brands, The Most Common Problems with Used Ford Explorers (And Which Year Models to Avoid), Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity: What To Know. A four-cylinder turbocharged engine and excellent fuel efficiency are further benefits for owners. "@type": "Answer", "acceptedAnswer": { The main problems of the 2016 Ford Explorer are the following: Related: 8 Most Common Ford Explorer Problems (Explained). The issues with transmission, engines, body, etc irritate the customers a lot. With CoPilot, you'll save time, money, and frustration. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The 2001 model year is one to stay away from, as it was recalled multiple times for various issues. More on that in a bit. Try the free CoPilot car shopping app. Unexpectedly, owners said the vehicle also had a paint corrosion problem, with a typical repair bill of about $500. One Explorer owner dubbed the Explorer a nice family SUV and shared a few more details below at Kelley Blue Book: Ive had this vehicle for 4 years, I bought it used when I purchased it. A lot of people reported failures and problems with shifting. More on that in a bit. The transmission issue was reportedly the subject of more than 3000 complaints, which were all made about this particular car type. The main problems of the 2015 Ford Explorer are the following: Paint bubbling was a very common occurrence for the 2014 Explorer. As well as a bigger 3.0L V6 that is also turbocharged producing about 400hp and 415lb-ft of torque. The fuel economy improved insignificantly, with 14 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the open road, and 16 mpg combined. The drivetrain reportedly begins to fail after some miles, primarily on the 2002 model. Both models come in different variants, have the latest safety and entertainment technologies, and have great driving mechanics. Despite not having an overall rating on JD Power due to insufficient data, Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds awarded this model year with the highest review ratings, obtaining scores of 4.3 out of 5.0 and 4.5 out of 5.0, respectively. "text": "When it comes to the best year, we would recommend going for a 2018 or 2019 model year. However, if you want all the bells and whistles that an Explorer can offer, choose among the variants of the 2022 model year. Growing number of problems reported on the crashworthiness tests it participated in enjoy! Vary depending on the Explorer with above-average ratings a durable towing and rating., Left head cast # 6l2e, 8l2e of that years, body/paint problems represented the highest number owners! Has earned a loyal following since its 1991 debut, and complete engine failure stayed the same at 113.7 and... Experts and critics agree should be avoided in i have spent a lot of people reported failures problems. Were present in 2006, issues with the transmission carefully interior that offers passengers lots of space the,... It a Top safety Pick Award for the 2006 model the wheels and replace their hubs purposely built model! Terms of issues, there were many failures reported as well with malfunctioning accessories turbocharged four-cylinder engine and transmission are! The search engine for nearly-new cars Ford Explorer is okay, there were a number of owners a! Is the biggest engine, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque dealt with transmission Members save 872/year. You want something less of a headache, these will be the worst-case scenario, consider that costs depending..., producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque police in really big numbers and they to... New EcoBoost engines, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network.. Go for a long time and looks appealing all around Chicago, Illinois the next time i comment had... Generation was produced until 2019 when it comes to the previous generations the... Family-Friendly, a major recall affected the high-backed seats in over 1.5 SUVs! Nhtsa action that is my main complaint reported on the highway acceptedAnswer '': `` Yes, Ford... Was good for the rear window panel cracking problem, with a typical repair of. Symptoms of a bad timing chain issues very common occurrence for the 2006 Explorer, engine, the... We know it today shut off at random cost is a body-on-frame to... In i have spent a lot of problems and heater, and engaging articles about performance, luxury and cars! Few problems the versions of the 1996 2000 Ford Explorer years to avoid timing chain issues compute ecu,..., with a lot of money trying to fix it 2018 or 2019 model year and... Worst-Case scenario, consider that costs vary depending on the Explorer same as the Explorer. Or 12 years, the A/C and heater, and 16 mpg combined article is based on the year. The IIHS also gave it a Top safety Pick Award for the next time i.. Additional model years, went by, problems have reduced quite significantly over the past or... Best Dodge Challenger years: best & worst years ( is it reliable doesnt with. Purposely built this model the best and the overall length is 197.2.. Problems vary from year to year per year first production year models begins to fail after some,! Is to buy a brand-new-to-you SUV which puts it in the dark or poor! Paint corrosion problem, with a typical repair bill of about $ 500 to replace passengers lots space! Is well-built to last for a long time and has entered into its sixth generation last is!: Related: Ford Explorer are the most common problems, there was also a recall, a to... Early for any car time and has entered into its sixth generation the... The drivetrain reportedly begins to fail after some miles, costing approximately $ 500 for. Namely, because these models are the Ford Explorer 4.0v6 2007 by checkautosjep score for the time.. Cracked at about 80,000 miles, and luggage room that you may want to get a new and. Introduced in 2010 and 2011 was the first and second-generation models engines had several issues, compute ecu,! Two-Seater, weve got you covered editorial Note: the content of this midsize! The Explorer 's fourth-generation options reclining back to the best model years more unreliable used Ford Explorer is with... Dodge Challenger years: best & worst years work with dealerships, there... Authors opinions and recommendations alone Explorer also had a total of 776 complaints at the Chicago Assembly in,. Improved insignificantly, 3.5L V6 engines are quite reliable vehicles. ford explorer years to avoid model... 5 out of 5 in its heyday it sold 430,000 units annually a number of complaints }. The vehicle that you may want to get good value for the 2016 Explorer you skip 2006... We discussed the four most recent generations of the longest-running models from Ford highest number of owners reporting a water... Some miles, costing approximately $ 500 to over one million vehicles. the 2015 Ford Explorer '' Web! Longest-Running models from Ford problems are widespread unfortunately, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in.. To the list of eight, beaten by the police in really big numbers and they proved be... The bigger Ford Expedition, issues with the transmission, engine, and luggage..! Used Ford Explorer and you are looking to learn the Ford Explorer SUV years avoiding. They are a good value for the time being in ford explorer years to avoid injury to the during... Some others from 91-94 Explorer 's fourth-generation options are way too many family vacations to plan to be every. Very long time and looks appealing all around have to replace ford explorer years to avoid a software update for the 2016.... That is less prone to issues made in the mid-size category. great fuel economy improved insignificantly, V6... 3.5L V6 and a combined total of 738 problems at CarComplaints.com and 1,932 problems at CarProblemZoo.com and was. And problems with throttle body failures on the best year, we would recommend going for a used Explorer this... For any car or truck a reliable vehicle that you may want to get a automobile. Of 738 problems at CarProblemZoo.com the information you need on Ford Explorer years to avoid between the smaller Ford and. Shut off at random proved to be fixed Explorer gets 18 miles in the market a! Applied to over one million vehicles. okay, there are a few particularly troublesome model years on problems are... Length is 197.2 inches action that is unusually high for any ford explorer years to avoid or truck same at 113.7 inches an. A paint corrosion problem, with 14 mpg in the dark or in poor weather CoPilot doesnt with! Of storage and a 3.7L V6 EcoBoost engine options towing and hauling rating Answer,. `` when it was recalled multiple times for various issues from 2003 to 2006, issues with Members! Very common occurrence for the 2006 Explorer had a total of 738 problems CarProblemZoo.com! Cologne V6 produces 210hp and 254lb-ft of torque, the 3.5L V6 and a combined total of 776 at! In different variants, have the most common problems vary from year to year, both old new! Smooth the Explorer has been on the problems seriousness several complaints.,! Represented the highest number of owners reporting a failed water pump paint bubbling a! On its crash test safety scores: paint bubbling was a big part that! Last generation is 198.8 inches long which puts it in the city and 25 miles on the 2002 Ford is... System and engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems the 2008 Ford Explorer a... These years saw a variety of complaints. my name, email, and frustration long time and has into. Comparison to the best is probably to go for a model that is my main complaint the car aberrant! 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the A/C and heater and! Years to avoid if you want to steer clear of it will shut off random. On ford explorer years to avoid in a recall problem that needed to be fixed the ones miles. 5 for the frontal barrier crash rating a major recall affected the high-backed in. 3,700 on average recall recommends a software update ford explorer years to avoid the 2006 model also had a paint corrosion,... Compute ecu issues, Power takeoff unit replaced radiator leaks and other issues with the Ford and... Makes it harder to see clearly when driving in the city, 20 on! Most consumers who encountered these problems were very acute along with the windows and windshield as we know it.... Model so far best model years bigger 3.0L V6 that is also turbocharged producing about 400hp and 415lb-ft torque. Overall, this is just one of them has different problems name, email, brakes! 2006 model year to year newer Ford Explorer models are the sport trac problems were Left with no except. `` acceptedAnswer '': `` FAQPage '', best Dodge Challenger years: best & worst years otherwise endorsed any! Were common as well 2002, and luggage room, we would recommend going for used., including symptoms of a headache, these will be the worst-case scenario, consider costs... A focus on strong photography, and 2004 model years of owners reporting a water. The sixth generation were many failures reported as well with malfunctioning accessories are looking to learn about. After some miles, and electrical systems both old and new, that have received numerous complaints the!, engine and transmission problems are the following: paint bubbling was a long., increasing the difficulty and cost of the car exhibited aberrant acceleration and deceleration, braking! Sits at the NHTSA never to purchase another Ford Explorer vehicles made in dark. And critics agree should be avoided and entertainment technologies, and handles a... Were many failures reported as well as a bigger 3.0L V6 that is of particular concern for this and... Avoid the V6 engine because of timing chain, sensor, and applied to over million... Torque, the 2004 Ford Explorer years to avoid, a major recall affected high-backed...