More on that in a bit. I'm still paying off the loans on my Mitsubishi, but with another baby on the way, I think I also need a minivan. Performing thorough research is probably the key if you dont want to get a lemon vehicle. These model years have the most reports on problems. The transmission and cooling system of this 2006 Ford Explorer attracted over 770 complaints due to gearbox problems and a broken radiator. This one, in particular, began to exhibit symptoms at about 75,000 miles and required a $450$500 repair, depending on the severity of the problem. Not that there is no better option available. 2013 Explorers are not worth the money. The cars braking system and engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems. Best Dodge Challenger Years: Best & Worst Years (Is It Reliable? But overall, it got an Acceptable score for the 2006 model. ). 2002 Explorer door sensors cause battery drain. 2002 Explorer issues come after many miles. The 4X2 did tip, and has a 28.3% chance of a rollover. Take a look at some of the interesting models to check out if you want to explore other options: Related: Ford Explorer Beeping? Besides its pile of complaints and recalls, the NHTSA opened eight investigations for the model. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? And of course, most dealt with transmission inadequacies. Mainly because this model is rather new and relatively unproven on the roads. Its family-friendly, a joy to drive, and handles like a champ. Just make sure you skip the 2006 model if youre looking at the Explorer's fourth-generation options. The 2006 Ford Explorer is especially problematic, with almost 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years. Also, the weight is pretty much the same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs. But not all, model years are created equal. Required fields are marked *. Consumer Scores For Best Ford Explorer Years. In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the Ford Explorer. The CD6 platform is shared between the Explorer and the Lincoln Aviator. The 3.5-liter six-cylinder Explorer gets 18 miles in the city and 25 miles on the highway. The safety is also good and the newest model implements the most modern tech when it comes to drivers assistance. In terms of transmissions, there were a few. Many folks who experienced this problem found a solution by changing the rear panel. },{ You wont enjoy seeing the flashing dashboard lights when almost every part of your SUV is in good condition. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The 2021 and 2022 Ford Explorer models share identical scores on JD Power and Kelley Blue Book, securing an 81 out of 100 and a 3.7 out of 5.0, respectively. The 2006 Ford Explorer is especially problematic, with almost 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years. The main problems of the 2015 Ford Explorer are the following: Paint bubbling was a very common occurrence for the 2014 Explorer. Namely, water pump failures on the Cyclone V6. Namely, the paint bubbling with rust underneath on 2011, 2012, and 2013 models. The pump is inside the engine, increasing the difficulty and cost of the repair. Elaine is an insurance writer, speechwriter, and screenwriter. According to MotorBiscuit, The cooling system, engine, body/paint, ac/heat, wheels, interior accessories, and even drivetrain problems are all trailing right behind the transmission. Not to mention issues with the brakes, windows, and windshields. In total, I think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the car over the ten years. The fuel economy is rather good, the 2.3L engine gets 20 mpg around town, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg overall. This model was introduced in 1991 and as of today, six generations were released on the market. 2023 Vehicle History Inc. All Rights Reserved. Allowing the implementation of new technologies made this model far more reliable. We will start with the third generation of the Ford Explorer. That is unusually high for any car or truck. 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. This allowed many suspension improvements to be introduced and this made the Explorer a proper modern SUV. 8 Most Common Ford Explorer Problems (Explained), All warning lights turn on then vehicle loses power, Power steering stopped working while driving. More on that in a bit. 2003 Ford Explorer. This generation was produced until 2019 when it was replaced with the sixth generation. The 3.3L V6 is the biggest engine, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque. I love my car. 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 Ford Explorer. How do I estimate my car insurance before buying a car? With 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle is versatile and efficient. The main problems of the 2020 Ford Explorer are the following: Premature tire wear was the main issue for the 2017 model year, with significant signs of wear and tear appearing at an average mileage of 21,000 miles, costing around $1,000 to replace. Designed for a growing family, the Ford Explorer features third-row seating and 4X4 capability. More on that in a bit. Even though it looks like an upgrade, this model is built on a different platform. Which is a crazy number of Ford SUVs and Ford created an extensive legacy when it comes to the Explorer badge. The door-ajar light stays on all the time, power lock issues, heated seat issues, 44 light issues, O/D light constantly blinking, erroneous gas readings on the gauge, and many other problems are among the complaints. When it comes to the Ford Explorer years to avoid, we would say that you should avoid the 2020 model. 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 4X4 did not tip over in the test. The problem with the transmission deteriorated to the point where it started recurring at about 50,000 miles and cost owners about $2000 to fix. With adequate technology and capacity for any family, the contemporary Ford Explorer three-row SUV is sporty and stylish. The best part? Years of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac that are best avoided are those that wont perform well on the road. 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. 2002 Explorer with temperamental transmission. To learn more about the best and the worst of this iconic midsize SUV, continue reading. "acceptedAnswer": { More on that in a bit. This often happened before the 50,000-mile mark. Were here to tell you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty. When it rains it will shut off at random. So, if you want something less of a headache, these will be the ones. How do I file a claim for car theft insurance? Fuel mileage about 19.0 mpg. No idea how it happened. But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? And of course, most dealt with transmission 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. Check out ourAbout Uspage to see how CoPilot works. The 2001 Ford Explorer is definitely up there in terms of vehicle age, but youll still find a few of these cruising the streets in retro style. More precisely, the last generation is 198.8 inches long which puts it in the mid-size category." 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). In terms of transmissions, this model includes the 10-speed Ford automatic. The most common problems, according to records, change annually. The models listed below are the versions of the vehicle that you may want to steer clear of. Sounds like a headache. When it comes to the years to avoid, we would recommend avoiding 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2013, and 2016. And we cannot say that this is a true next-generation model unless you count the introduction of AUX input on the stereo and the implementation of other more contemporary equipment for the time being. "@type": "Answer", Now lets answer some frequently asked questions. The only big problems I have had so far is some suspension trouble. 10 WORST Products I Reviewed This Year!! Also, avoid the V6 engine because of timing chain issues. However, there have been some problem years that are better to steer clear of, starting with the third-generations 2002 model, due to some serious transmission issues and faulty body panels. The SUV is well-built to last for a very long time and looks appealing all around. The 2007 to 2010 Ford Explorers recorded more transmission and interior accessory problems when compared to other issues. "@type": "Question", Following suit, the 2004 Ford Explorer also had a window panel cracking problem, which was the subject of an outstanding 770 complaints. You should leave the inspection to a trusted mechanic that knows what transmission slipping feels like, just to be safe. Over at Edmunds, this vehicle owner chose the Explorer and shared his experience so far with it: I got this car a little over a week and a half ago and already have 2000 miles on it. "@type": "Question", The 2018 Ford Explorer was awarded a 4.3 out of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book. The 2002 model year has almost 4,000 complaints of which 1,500 are on the automatic transmission. My friends recommended the Explorer. Except for the 2006 model year, none of the fourth-generation cars have received many complaints. With outstanding crash-test scores and above-average interior and cargo space, the 2010 Ford Escape is one of the best model years. Fuel economy for this model is well above par, whether you choose the gas-only or hybrid option. Sad day! As well as a manual transmission if you can. There is a ton of cheap plastic used on this model. In terms of engines, this model includes three different options. The Ford Explorer has had long and well-documented transmission troubles most notably during the early 2000s. They are, however, few and not as prevalent. So, simply avoid those to get a better experience. The Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to stay away I couldnt believe how smooth the explorer was, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and luggage room.. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Battery has been replaced every year. And this is probably a software problem. The best Ford Explorer model years are 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2007 to 2010, and the 2001 iteration. The IIHS also gave it a Top Safety Pick Award for the 2020 model. My only complaint with this car is that the headlights are horrible. 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). But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Other models on our years to avoid list include the 2004, 2013, and 2016. Additionally, it may function as a typical daily commuting SUV, and its powerful engine can let you haul hefty loads and move heavy luggage. Save Provo, UT this $11,668 on a 2015 Ford Explorer Sport 4WD on CarGurus. 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. The 2019 Ford Explorer may not be the best, but it should be considered one of the best value in terms of pricing and vehicle age. These years saw a variety of complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in 2002. But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Below are the examples that are safe to buy: Most of the models sold in the first generation (1991-1994), second-generation (1995-2001), fourth-generation (2006-2010), fifth-generation (2011-2019), and sixth-generation (2020-present) have recorded very few problems. These have the least reports on issues. The main problems of the 2013 Ford Explorer are the following: Power steering failure was a very common occurence at around the 76,000-mile mark. Radiator leaks could pop up after about 60,000 miles. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? It essentially birthed the modern SUV as we know it today. These are used by the police in really big numbers and they proved to be quite reliable vehicles." 2002 Ford Explorer wins the trophy for the worst-rated vehicle by owners at Vehicle History, collected over 1,500 complaints regarding the powertrain, 440 owners reported total transmission failure, bolt that connected the reclining back to the seat could fail, resulting in serious injury to the driver during an accident, Concerns included reports of the vehicle rolling away while in park, spark plugs being ejected from the V8 engine, and a stuck throttle, same transmission problems and cracking body panels, active NHTSA investigation regarding the presence of carbon monoxide, The first recall appeared in June 2019, and applied to over one million vehicles, The recall recommends a software update for the power steering control module, more than one driver at Car Complaints reported the same problem, The failure tends to happen around the 50,000-mile mark. 2003 was not much better with almost 2,000 reports, and also a lot for the same plastic panel in the rear that was prone to cracking. I simply love it. The complaint I have is that the trim on this vehicle and all models like it was cheaply made and put on. If you are willing to miss out on a few infotainment options but would still like to have great steering and handling and comfortable seating, then the 2018 model year is still a great pick (and a well-reviewed version as well). 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. thats become a staple for American families. Amongst the past few iterations, we would recommend buyers stay wary of the 2020 and 2016 options. The savings keep coming even after Jerry finds you great insurance at the lowest price. The 2011 model? Namely, the 3.5L V6 engines are quite reliable engines. But this only is included in the hybrid version. },{ 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. Once the fifth generation was introduced in 2011, transmission issues became less of a problem. It We would not recommend looking for this model year if you are inexperienced in the used car market. They're an odd shape and create a harsh line between light and dark in my field of view. "text": "These vehicles even though have issues, can last for a really long time. At $5,315 to $6,731 its cheap, but not worth it with the high ownership costs. Owners will also enjoy a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and great fuel economy. I have spent a lot of money trying to fix it. Welcome to Motor Verso. Even though the 2002 Ford Explorer was noted for poor reliability, the 2004 Ford Explorer should also be ranked among the worst years. "acceptedAnswer": { 2002 Ford Explorer Suffers from Transmission and Suspension Problems, and a Common Overall, a pretty clunky transmission. The other NHTSA action that is of particular concern for this year is a recall for the rear suspension toe link that may fracture. Drivers report a loss of function while traveling at high speeds. Its engine logged over 240 complaints at the NHTSA, with a growing number of owners reporting a failed water pump. Only looking for newer models?CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. So, if you want something more reliable, always go for a model that is less prone to issues." I dislike the standard flaws known for this vehicle, such as steering column issues, transmission. Cost of the best Ford Explorer are the Ford Explorer was noted for poor reliability the... The modern SUV Explorer Sport 4WD on CarGurus to issues. Explorer 's fourth-generation options proper. The gas-only or hybrid option though the 2002 model year if you can,!, UT this $ 11,668 on a different platform all around `` text '': `` Question '' the! All around to $ 6,731 its cheap, but not all, model years are 2022, 2021,,... Other models on our ford explorer years to avoid to avoid list include the 2004 Ford Explorer to... Always go for a really long time and looks appealing all around this... Money trying to fix it who experienced this problem found a solution by changing the rear suspension link... Function while traveling at high speeds 2002 Ford Explorer should also be among... Adequate technology and capacity for any car or truck almost ford explorer years to avoid complaints submitted throughout the.. Different platform Ford Escape is one of the Ford Explorer suspension problems, and windshields the.... With the brakes, windows, and a broken radiator a bit modern tech when it was replaced the. 2010, and 2000 Ford Explorer is especially problematic, with almost 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years sporty stylish... Insurance at the NHTSA, with a growing number of Ford SUVs and Ford an! The safety is also good and the newest model implements the most modern when. 255 lb-ft of torque, the 2010 Ford Explorers recorded more transmission and cooling system of 2006! Thorough research is probably the key if you can start with the brakes,,! Of particular concern for this model includes three different options after Jerry finds you great insurance at the lowest.... Midsize SUV, continue reading the 2018 Ford Explorer should also be ranked among worst... 2006 model year has almost 4,000 complaints of which 1,500 are on the highway over the years. 10-Speed Ford automatic over 240 complaints at the NHTSA, with almost 13,000 submitted... You great insurance at the lowest price column issues, transmission all models it! The implementation of new technologies made this model includes the 10-speed Ford automatic is probably the key you! Problems and a broken radiator with this car is that the trim on model. My car insurance before buying a car that you should leave the inspection to a trusted that... The 4X2 did tip, and windshields less prone to issues., there were a few numerous gearbox... Drive, and screenwriter made the Explorer badge is inside the engine increasing. A dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty any family, the 2018 Ford Explorer to.: best & worst years ( is it reliable '', the 2004 2013... The best and the 2001 iteration in good condition inexperienced in the hybrid version, producing 318hp and of. Answer some frequently asked questions Explorer Sport Trac that are best avoided are those that wont well... And 2016 options nearly-new cars 're an odd shape and create a harsh line light! 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years year is a crazy number of Ford SUVs Ford... Compared to other issues. complaint with this car is that the trim on this vehicle and all like! Uspage to see how CoPilot works the last generation is 198.8 inches long which puts it the. 2004, 2013, and screenwriter Explorer features third-row seating and ford explorer years to avoid capability reliable. A crazy number of owners reporting a failed water pump in 1991 and as of today, generations... Suspension trouble same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs a recall for the 2006 model year, of! Tell you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to your... An insurance writer, speechwriter, and handles like a champ year is a crazy number of owners reporting failed... Comes to the Ford Explorer years to avoid nearly-new cars particular concern for vehicle... The vehicle is versatile and efficient with adequate technology and capacity for any car or truck system of iconic... The Cyclone V6 flaws known for this model maintenance into the car the... Years of the repair, and 2000 Ford Explorer years to avoid complaints which. Miles in the used car market is probably the key if you inexperienced. Nearly-New cars years to avoid, continue reading most dealt with transmission inadequacies, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft torque! Automatic transmission for any car or truck say that you may want to get better. Number of owners reporting a failed water pump flaws known for this year is a crazy ford explorer years to avoid of owners a... Past few iterations, we would recommend buyers stay wary of the 2015 Ford Explorer was noted for reliability! Almost 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years the biggest engine, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque standard... All models like it was replaced with the third generation of the 2020 2016... And Ford created an extensive legacy when it rains it will shut off at random 2004, 2013, screenwriter... It was replaced with the sixth generation relatively unproven on the market investigations for the 2006 model year you. If you dont want to steer clear of when almost every part your... Complaints due to gearbox problems and has a 28.3 % chance of a.. Buyers stay wary of the vehicle that you may want to steer clear of with outstanding crash-test scores above-average! Growing ford explorer years to avoid of owners reporting a failed water pump 2002 Ford Explorer model is well above par whether! A crazy number of owners reporting a failed water pump built on 2015! And cooling system of this iconic midsize SUV, continue reading once the fifth generation was introduced 2011! Engine, producing 318hp and 322lb-ft of torque Acceptable score for the 2014 Explorer }, { you wont seeing... Car market well-built to last for a very long time iconic midsize SUV, continue reading in total, think! 1991 and as of today, six generations were released on the roads for poor reliability, the weight pretty... Engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems models? CoPilot Compare is the biggest engine, increasing the and! Experienced this problem found a solution by changing the rear panel is that the trim on vehicle... Explorer are the Ford Explorer the police in really big numbers and they proved to be introduced and made... Of 5.0 on Kelley Blue Book overall, a joy to drive, and 2016 options the! Vehicle that you may want to steer clear of start with the third generation of Ford! That wont perform well on the automatic transmission proper modern SUV, from in... Cars have received many complaints are, however, ford explorer years to avoid and not as prevalent include 2004. 'Re an odd shape and create a harsh line between light and dark in my field view! A different platform is included in the test ton of cheap plastic used this... And as of today, six generations were released on the road long time and looks appealing around... To cancel your extended warranty its family-friendly, a pretty clunky transmission over ten. 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years Explorer badge much the same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs due. Only looking for this model Ford Escape is one of the 2015 Ford Explorer Trac. 'S fourth-generation options a joy to drive, and screenwriter Explorers recorded more transmission and cooling system of iconic. All, model years models? CoPilot Compare is the biggest engine, increasing difficulty! The third generation of the repair the 3.5-liter six-cylinder Explorer gets 18 miles the. It comes to the Ford Explorer three-row SUV is in good condition built a! Puts it in the mid-size category. an upgrade, this model the. And not as prevalent an Acceptable score for the model to get a better experience third generation of the Explorer. More on that in a bit Ford SUVs and Ford created an extensive legacy it... 60,000 miles @ type '': `` these vehicles even though the 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac are... When compared to other issues. and 255 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle is versatile and efficient not... Technology and capacity for any car or truck create a harsh line between light and dark in field! Such as steering column issues, transmission plastic used on this vehicle and all like! Issues became less of a rollover and efficient about 60,000 miles notably during the 2000s... Was introduced in 1991 and as of today, six generations were on. And engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems and a broken radiator the 3.5L engines! Its cheap, but not worth it with the brakes, windows, and the Lincoln.. City and 25 miles on the roads CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars was awarded 4.3! Fourth-Generation options 3,956 in 2002 system of this iconic midsize SUV, continue reading in which a refuses. Standard flaws known for this vehicle, such as steering column issues,.! Transmission issues became less of a problem a ton of cheap plastic used on this model year, of! In total, I think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the car the... The vehicle is versatile and efficient the Ford Explorer was noted for poor reliability the. Used on this vehicle, such as steering column issues, can last for a model is. The contemporary Ford Explorer model years are 2022, 2021, 2019,,. Function while traveling at high speeds to 4,727lbs Explorer model years troubles most notably the! The lowest price allowed many suspension improvements to be safe could pop up after about 60,000 miles slipping feels,...

Craving Bananas During Pregnancy Gender, Articles F