The Ford Explorer is one of America’s top-selling midsize SUVs, but if you’re thinking of buying one, you might be wondering about its reliability. In this article, we’ll delve into the Explorer’s track record, known issues, and long-term durability to help guide your purchasing decision. If you rely on your vehicle day in and day out, reliability isn’t just a luxury — it’s essential for both your peace of mind and your budget.
Ford Explorer’s Historical Reputation for Reliability
Since its debut in 1991, the Ford Explorer has evolved through six generations, eventually becoming America’s best-selling SUV by 2020. Consumer trust built over the decades has kept the Explorer competitive despite some past reliability concerns. Early models delivered what families needed — space, capability, and fair prices — and over time, Ford addressed any reliability issues with each redesign. Now, more than three decades later, the Explorer remains a family favorite on driveways across the U.S.
Detailed Analysis of Ford Explorer Reliability Ratings
RepairPal gives the Explorer 3.5 out of five stars, which is average for the midsize SUV segment. This rating is based on real-world ownership data, including repair frequency, severity, and cost. Data shows that Explorer owners experience 0.2 unexpected repairs per year — lower than the segment average of 0.4. However, the likelihood of the repair being serious is 14% — just above the 13% segment average.
Annual maintenance costs run about $732, which is higher than the $573 average for the segment. While the Explorer may cost more to maintain, it breaks down less often, making it a dependable option for Pennsylvania families.
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability ratings show significant variation between model years. Current models (2024-2025) get an impressive 87 out of 100, dropping to just 60 out of 100 for the 2020 iteration. For Pennsylvania buyers comparing new and used Explorers, these differences are worth consideration.
Much of this variation is due to improvements in build quality, manufacturing, and testing. Transmission problems plagued early models with issues including rough shifting, delayed engagement, slipping gears, and complete failures. The 2020 model had 24 recalls covering systems such as the dashboard, engine, camera, driveshaft, and battery. In comparison, the 2024 model has had just two recalls so far. These improvements are one of the reasons CarBuzz named the Explorer the 2025 Best Family Car of the Year.
Maximizing the Reliability of Your Ford Explorer
To maximize the reliability of your Ford Explorer, routine maintenance is key. Change the oil and filter every 5,000-7,500 miles, rotate tires, and inspect brakes, belts, hoses, and fluids regularly. Pennsylvania’s harsh winters and warm summers make regular maintenance checks even more crucial in order to prevent rust and other problems.
Between 15,000 and 30,000 miles, replace the engine air filter, check the cabin filter, and inspect the suspension and steering. Beyond 60,000 miles, service the transmission, replace spark plugs, and inspect the coolant system. Finding a trusted Ford service technician who knows Explorers inside and out can help keep your vehicle running reliably for many years to come.
FAQ About Ford Explorers
These questions are some of the most common ones we get asked by potential Explorer buyers. Getting straight answers to these queries can help you decide if the Explorer meets your needs.
What Are the Most Reliable Ford Explorers on the Market?
Today’s Explorers offer much better reliability than earlier models. The 2024 Explorer earned both a five-star National Highway Traffic Safety Administration safety rating and an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ award. These honors reflect not just crash protection but overall build quality and engineering that lead to better long-term durability. The current generation has fixed many reliability problems that persisted in earlier models. If shopping used, experts recommend the 2019 and 2023 versions as the most trouble-free choices.
How Does Ford Explorer Reliability Compare To Other Midsize SUVs?
The Explorer gets similar reliability ratings to the Honda Pilot and leads over the Chevrolet Traverse. It faces tough competition from brands such as Toyota, which typically has a stronger reliability history, but the Explorer often gives you more features and capability for your money.
What’s the Expected Life Span of a Ford Explorer With Proper Care?
Take good care of your Explorer, and it should last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles — that’s 15 to 20 years of use for most drivers. Some well-maintained vehicles have even hit 300,000 miles, though this requires meticulous care.
Your Trusted Ford Explorer Partner in Phoenixville
For those in Phoenixville looking to buy an SUV, the Explorer offers a reliable option. Here at John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville, we have decades of local auto experience and can help you make smart purchasing decisions. Our team understands the specific needs of Pennsylvania drivers and recognizes the importance of reliable transportation throughout all seasons.
Ready to check out our Explorer inventory, schedule a service appointment for your current vehicle, or chat with our reliability experts about your needs? Contact us today to discover how John Kennedy Ford Phoenixville can be your trusted partner for a reliable Explorer ownership experience.
Images from ford.com
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