Ford Explorer Years to Avoid: Mechanic’s Reliability Guide (1991-2026)

Alright so just last week I had this customer come in with a 2002 Ford Explorer and the transmission was completly shot at only 85000 miles which is crazy cause thats not even that high you know. Cost him like 2800 bucks to fix maybe even more with labor I dont remember exactly but it was alot. He was not happy at all I mean who would be right like nobody wants to spend that kind of money especialy on a vehicle thats not even worth that much anymore.

Ive been working on Ford Explorers for probly like 14 years now maybe even longer honestly I kinda lost track at this point and if theres one thing I can tell you its that some years are absolutley fantastic and some years are complete disasters man like seriously complete disasters. The year you buy makes a huge huge difference like night and day difference Im telling you. Ive seen Explorers run perfect at 220000 miles and Ive seen them falling apart at 70000 miles.

So let me save you from making an expensive mistake ok. This guide is everything Ive learned from actualy working on these SUVs every single day in my shop like literaly every day. Im gonna tell you exactly which years to avoid which years are the best to buy what common problems to watch for and how to spot a good Explorer from a bad one cause theres definately a difference.

Ford Explorer Years to Avoid – Complete List

If theres one thing Ive learned from working on Explorers its that you should stay far away from certain years especialy the early 2000s models. After working on literaly hundreds of Explorers over 14 years these are the years I tell people to stay completly away from like dont even look at them.

2002-2006 Explorer – The Absolute Worst

This is the big one like the really big one Im serious. The 2002 to 2006 Ford Explorer is hands down the worst generation Ive ever worked on and Ive probly seen like 50 of them come through my shop with major problems maybe even more than that I stopped keeping track. If someone asks me should I buy a 2002-2006 Explorer my answer is always absolutley not like dont even think about it just walk away and find something else anything else would be better.

Major Problems with 2002-2006:

Transmission Failures: The 5R55 transmission in these years is horrible like realy realy bad the worst Ive seen. The transmission fails completly usualy between 70000 and 100000 miles which is way sooner than it should I mean most transmissions should last way longer than that. When it fails you get slipping hard shifting delayed engagement and eventualy the transmission just quits working completly.

I remember one customer had a 2003 Explorer with only 78000 miles and the transmission failed while he was driving on the highway like just cruising along. Transmission completly gave up like it wouldnt even go into gear. Had to get it towed to my shop which cost him like 150 bucks just for the tow. Then the transmission rebuild cost him like 2500 bucks maybe even 2800 with labor I forget exactly. He was so mad cause the car wasnt even that old and he took good care of it too like regular fluid changes and everything.

Engine Problems: The engines on these years overheat all the time like constantly. Radiator leaks cooling system failures timing chain problems head gasket failures. Ive replaced so many radiators on 2002-2006 Explorers I lost count probly like 20 or 25 at least.

One customer with a 2004 Explorer had the engine overheat three times in six months. First time it was the radiator second time it was the water pump third time it was the thermostat. Each time cost him like 400 to 800 bucks depending on what broke. After the third time he just sold it cause he was tired of dealing with it.

Electrical Nightmares: Power windows stop working door locks fail dashboard lights flicker backup cameras quit. The whole electrical system on these years is problematic I mean its pretty bad actualy.

Suspension Wear: Ball joints wear out early tie rod ends fail control arms break. The suspension components dont last as long as they should. Ive replaced so many ball joints on these years its crazy.

Why 2002 is the Worst: The 2002 Explorer had the highest number of NHTSA complaints like 577 complaints which is insane. Thats more than any other Explorer year. Most complaints were about transmission failures suspension problems and drivetrain issues.

Ive probly rebuilt like 30 transmissions on these years alone maybe even more I stopped counting after a while cause after a while they all start to blend together you know.

Repair Costs:

• Transmission rebuild: $2,500-$3,500
• Engine overheating repair: $400-$1,200
• Electrical system fixes: $200-$800
• Suspension work: $600-$1,500

If you see a 2002-2006 Explorer for sale even if its cheap just walk away like seriously just dont do it. The repair costs will be way more than you save on the purchase price I guarantee it Ive seen it happen so many times.

2020 Explorer – First-Year Problems

The 2020 Explorer is another year I tell people to be carefull with cause its the first year of a new generation and first years always have problems you know like they didnt work out all the bugs yet.

What Happens: The 10-speed automatic transmission on the 2020 has all kinds of issues. Jerking bucking gear slippage sudden acceleration total transmission failure. Some customers reported the transmission would just jump to neutral while driving which is super dangerous especialy if your on the highway.

I had one customer with a 2020 Explorer and the transmission was slipping at only 15000 miles which is crazy like brand new basicaly. He brought it in three times for the same problem. First time they did a software update second time they replaced some sensors third time they finaly replaced the whole transmission under warranty. He was not happy at all about spending so much time at the dealer.

Electrical System Failures: All-wheel-drive control failures backup camera problems tailgate latches opening unintentionaly false warning lights. The electrical system on the 2020 is not great I mean its pretty bad for a new vehicle.

Engine Problems: Some 2020 Explorers had faulty welding in the engine overheating oil leaks stalling failures to accelerate. There were recalls for some of these issues.

Structural Issues: Center console detaching doors detaching windows shattering vibrations. Some of these are serious safety concerns.

Now the 2021 and 2023 are actualy pretty good but that 2020 had alot of problems cause it was the first year. If you can afford it skip the 2020 and get a 2021 or later.

Repair Costs:

• Transmission replacement: $3,500-$5,000
• Electrical system repairs: $500-$1,500
• Engine work: $1,000-$3,000

2016 Explorer – Mid-Generation Issues

The 2016 had some weird problems that I didnt see in other years like realy specific issues.

Warped Door Panels: The door panels warp and crack for no reason. Not a huge problem but it looks terrible and can cost like 300 to 500 bucks per door to fix.

Exhaust Fumes in Cabin: This is a serious safety issue. Exhaust fumes leak into the cabin especialy when the rear hatch is open or the AC is on. Can cause headaches dizziness nausea. Ford issued a recall for some of these but not all.

I had one customer with a 2016 who complained about smelling exhaust every time she drove. Turned out there was a leak in the exhaust system near the cabin. Cost her like 600 bucks to fix.

Weak Suspension Arms: The rear suspension arms are weak and break easier than they should. Can cause alignment problems uneven tire wear handling issues.

Consumer Reports Rating: Consumer Reports rated the 2016 Explorer as “much worse than average” for reliability which is pretty bad.

Repair Costs:

• Door panel replacement: $300-$500 per door
• Exhaust leak repair: $400-$800
• Suspension arm replacement: $500-$1,000

The 2016 is not as bad as 2002-2006 or 2020 but I stil wouldnt recommend it to be honest. Too many weird issues.

2013-2014 Explorer – Caution Years

These years arent terrible but they have enough problems that you should be carefull especialy if your looking at one with higher mileage.

Power Steering Failures: The electric power steering system fails on 2013-2014 models. Steering gets stiff or quits working completly. Super dangerous especialy at highway speeds.

I had one customer with a 2013 Explorer and the power steering failed while she was driving like just stopped working. She could barely turn the wheel and almost got into an accident. Scared her half to death she said.

Water Pump Problems: Water pumps fail early causing overheating and engine damage if you dont catch it quick.

Paint Issues: Paint peeling clear coat failure oxidation. Looks bad and can lead to rust if you dont fix it.

When to Consider: If you find a 2013-2014 Explorer with good maintenance records low mileage and a clean inspection it might be okay. But make sure to check the power steering water pump and paint condition before you buy.

Repair Costs:

• Power steering motor: $800-$1,200
• Water pump replacement: $400-$700
• Paint work: $500-$2,000

Best Ford Explorer Years to Buy

Okay so now for the good news cause there are actualy some realy solid Explorer years out there that I recommend all the time like these are good vehicles.

2009-2010 – Fourth Generation Sweet Spot

The 2009 and 2010 Ford Explorers are hands down some of the best years of the fourth generation like no question about it. These years got excellent reliability scores from J.D. Power and had way fewer problems than the 2002-2006 models.

Why I Like 2009-2010:

• Strong reliability ratings across the board
• Only 227 NHTSA complaints for 2010 (way less than 2002)
• Engine and transmission are reliable
• Excellent resale value
• Parts are stil easy to find

Ive worked on probly 20 of the 2009-2010 models and havent seen any major problems like nothing serious at all. Just regular maintenance stuff like brakes oil changes tires you know the normal stuff. Thats what you want in a vehicle just normal wear and tear not major expensive repairs.

I had one customer with a 2009 Explorer that had like 220000 miles on it and it was stil running strong like realy strong actualy. He does oil changes every 5000 miles and transmission fluid every 60000 miles and hasnt had any major repairs at all just normal stuff. Thats the kind of reliability you want from a vehicle you know where it just keeps going and going without breaking down all the time.

What to Look For:

• Check for rust especialy on older models
• Make sure transmission shifts smooth
• Test all electrical systems
• Look for maintenance records

Value Proposition: You can find 2009-2010 Explorers for like 8000 to 12000 bucks depending on mileage and condition. Thats a good value for a reliable SUV with three rows.

2011-2012 – Early Fifth Generation

The 2011 and 2012 Explorers marked a big change cause Ford switched from body-on-frame to unibody construction. This made the ride smoother and handling better.

Why These Are Good:

• Unibody design = better ride quality
• Improved fuel economy
• Modern safety tech
• Good reliability scores
• Comfortable interior

The 2011-2012 models are pretty solid overall. Ive seen a few with minor issues but nothing major like transmission or engine failures.

Best Features:

• EcoBoost engine option (better mileage)
• MyFord Touch infotainment
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Price Range: You can find 2011-2012 Explorers for like 10000 to 15000 bucks depending on mileage trim and condition.

2018-2019 – Late Fifth Generation Excellence

The 2018 and 2019 Explorers are especialy good cause they have all the improvements from the fifth generation plus modern tech and safety features.

Why These Stand Out:

• Advanced safety features (automatic emergency braking lane-keeping assist)
• Solid reliability
• Modern infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Good resale value
• Low complaint rates

Ive worked on probly 10 of these newer ones and havent seen any major problems yet like nothing major. Just regular maintenance like oil changes tire rotations that kind of stuff.

Technology:

• SYNC 3 infotainment system
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
• Adaptive cruise control
• 360-degree camera

Price Range: 2018-2019 Explorers usualy cost like 20000 to 30000 bucks depending on mileage trim and options. More expensive than older models but you get way better tech and reliability.

2021, 2023 – Sixth Generation Mature Years

The 2021 and 2023 Explorers are the newest ones and theyre actualy pretty good especialy compared to the 2020 first-year model.

Why 2021 and 2023:

• Fuel-efficient hybrid options
• Improved reliability over 2020
• Latest safety features
• Modern design
• Good warranty coverage

The 2021 especialy is solid cause Ford worked out most of the bugs from the 2020. The 2023 is even better with more refinements.

Hybrid Option: The hybrid Explorer gets like 27 mpg combined which is realy good for a three-row SUV. Saves you money on gas especialy if you drive alot.

What to Expect: These are expensive usualy like 30000 to 45000 bucks depending on trim and options. But you get the latest tech best safety features and good reliability.

Common Ford Explorer Problems by Generation

Let me break down what Ive seen with each generation cause this will help you know what to look for when buying used.

First Generation (1991-1994) Common Problems

Coolant Leaks: The first-generation Explorers have coolant leaks from the radiator water pump and hoses. Can cause overheating if you dont fix it quick.

Transmission Issues: The automatic transmission has shifting problems and failures. Not as bad as 2002-2006 but stil something to watch for.

Overall Reliability: The first generation is actualy pretty reliable for its age. Built on a truck platform so its tough and durable. Parts are cheap and easy to find.

Second Generation (1995-2001) Common Problems

Transmission Problems: The 4R55E and 5R55E transmissions have issues with slipping hard shifting and failure. Common problem on these years.

Engine Issues: Intake manifold gasket leaks timing chain problems head gasket failures. The 4.0L V6 especialy has these issues.

Rollover Concerns: The second generation had rollover issues due to high center of gravity. Ford issued recalls and made improvements but stil something to be aware of.

Windows and Windshields: Power window regulators fail windshield seals leak. Minor issues but anoying.

Third Generation (2002-2006) Common Problems

This is the worst generation like I said earlier. Everything goes wrong on these years.

Transmission Disasters: The 5R55 transmission fails way too early. Slipping hard shifts complete failure. Repair costs like 2500 to 3500 bucks.

Engine Failures: Overheating timing chain failures head gasket problems. Can lead to complete engine failure if you dont catch it early.

Electrical Problems: Power windows door locks dashboard lights backup cameras. Everything electrical has issues.

Suspension Wear: Ball joints tie rod ends control arms. All wear out way too early.

Body and Paint: Cracks below rear window peeling paint rust. The body quality on these years is not great.

Ive probly done like 40 transmission rebuilds on 2002-2006 Explorers maybe even more. Thats how bad these years are.

Fourth Generation (2007-2010) Common Problems

Improved Reliability: The fourth generation is way better than the third. Fewer major problems overall.

Minor Issues: Some transmission problems but not as common as 2002-2006. Interior accessories failing. AC and heater issues.

Overall: The 2009-2010 models are especialy good. If you find one with good maintenance records its a solid buy.

Fifth Generation (2011-2019) Common Problems

Early Years (2011-2013): Some power steering failures water pump problems paint issues. Not terrible but worth checking.

Mid Years (2014-2015): Pretty solid overall. Few major complaints.

Late Years (2016-2019): The 2016-2017 have warped door panels exhaust fumes suspension issues. The 2018-2019 are much better.

Overall: The fifth generation is generaly reliable especialy the later years. Good choice for used SUV buyers.

Sixth Generation (2020-Present) Common Problems

2020 First-Year Issues: Transmission glitches electrical faults exhaust system problems paint and trim issues rearview camera failures. Lots of recalls.

2021-2023 Improvements: Way better than 2020. Most of the bugs worked out. Good reliability scores.

Current Issues: Some minor electrical problems infotainment glitches. Nothing major like transmission or engine failures.

The sixth generation is solid if you skip the 2020 and go for 2021 or later.

Ford Explorer Transmission Problems – Deep Dive

Transmission problems are the biggest issue with Explorers especialy 2002-2006 so let me explain exactly what happens cause Ive rebuilt probly 40 of these transmissions over the years maybe even more.

5R55 Transmission (1997-2010) Issues

The 5R55 transmission is used in Explorers from 1997 to 2010 and its notorious for problems especialy in the 2002-2006 years.

Design Flaws: The transmission has weak internal components that wear out too early. Clutch packs burn up valve body sticks solenoids fail. The whole design is problematic.

Common Symptoms:

• Slipping between gears
• Hard shifting especialy 1st to 2nd gear
• Delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive
• Transmission overheating
• Check engine light with transmission codes
• Complete transmission failure

Personal Experience: Ive rebuilt so many 5R55 transmissions I could do it in my sleep at this point. The most common failure is the clutch packs burning up cause they cant handle the heat and stress. When they fail you get slipping and eventualy the transmission just quits working.

One customer had a 2005 Explorer with 92000 miles and the transmission was slipping so bad it wouldnt even move. Had to tow it to my shop. Opened it up and the clutch packs were completly fried like burned to nothing. Rebuilt the whole transmission which cost him like 2800 bucks.

Repair Costs by Problem:

• Transmission fluid change: $150-$250
• Solenoid replacement: $300-$600
• Valve body replacement: $800-$1,500
• Complete rebuild: $2,500-$3,500
• New transmission: $3,500-$5,000

Prevention Tips:

• Change transmission fluid every 30000 to 40000 miles (dont wait for 60000)
• Use only Ford-approved transmission fluid
• Dont tow heavy loads if you have high mileage
• Fix any transmission problems imediately before they get worse

10-Speed Transmission (2020+) Problems

The 10-speed automatic transmission in 2020 and newer Explorers has had early issues too especialy in the 2020 first-year model.

What to Watch For:

• Jerking and bucking during acceleration
• Harsh downshifts
• Transmission hunting for gears
• Sudden jumps to neutral
• Software glitches

Current Status: Ford has issued software updates to fix some of these issues. The 2021 and later models are much better cause they worked out most of the bugs.

Repair Costs:

• Software update: Free under warranty
• Transmission replacement: $3,500-$5,000

Warning Signs Your Transmission is Failing

If you notice any of these signs get your Explorer checked imediately:

• Slipping gears
• Hard or delayed shifting
• Grinding or whining noises
• Burning smell
• Leaking transmission fluid (red or brown fluid under the vehicle)
• Check engine light

Catching transmission problems early can save you thousands of dollars. Dont ignore warning signs.

Ford Explorer vs Competitors – Reliability Comparison

People always ask me how the Explorer compares to other SUVs so heres what Ive seen from working on all of them.

Explorer vs Honda Pilot

Reliability: The Honda Pilot is generaly more reliable than the Explorer especialy compared to 2002-2006 Explorers. But 2009-2012 and 2018-2019 Explorers are pretty close to the Pilot in reliability.

Common Problems:

• Pilot: Transmission issues (2016-2019), infotainment glitches, paint problems
• Explorer: Transmission failures (2002-2006, 2020), electrical issues, suspension wear

Which is Better: If your comparing a 2002-2006 Explorer to any Pilot the Pilot wins hands down. But if your comparing a 2018-2019 Explorer to a 2018-2019 Pilot theyre pretty close. The Pilot might have a slight edge in reliability but the Explorer has more power and better towing capacity.

Personal Recommendation: For used SUVs under 15000 bucks Id go with a 2009-2012 Pilot or a 2009-2012 Explorer. Both are solid choices. For newer SUVs the Pilot is safer but the Explorer has better features.

Explorer vs Dodge Durango

Reliability: The Durango and Explorer are pretty similar in reliability. Both have had their problem years.

Common Problems:

• Durango: Electrical issues, transmission problems, engine failures (especialy Hemi V8)
• Explorer: Transmission failures, electrical issues, suspension wear

Which is Better: The Durango has more power especialy with the Hemi V8 but it also has worse fuel economy. The Explorer is more fuel-efficient and has better tech.

Personal Recommendation: If you want power and towing get the Durango. If you want better mileage and tech get the Explorer. Both are about equal in reliability if you avoid the bad years.

Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee

Reliability: The Grand Cherokee is hit or miss. Some years are great some years are terrible just like the Explorer.

Common Problems:

• Grand Cherokee: Electrical issues, transmission problems, engine failures, suspension wear
• Explorer: Transmission failures, electrical issues, suspension wear

Which is Better: The Grand Cherokee has better off-road capability but the Explorer has more cargo space and better third-row seating.

Personal Recommendation: If you need off-road capability get the Grand Cherokee. If you need three rows and cargo space get the Explorer. For reliability theyre about the same if you pick good years.

Ownership Costs: All three SUVs have similar ownership costs. Parts and labor are about the same price. The Explorer might be slightly cheaper cause parts are more common.

Buying a Used Ford Explorer – Complete Guide

Alright so if your gonna buy a used Explorer heres exactly what I check when customers ask me to do a pre-purchase inspection cause Ive found so many problems that buyers had no idea about.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Transmission Test (30-Minute Drive): This is the most important part. You need to drive the Explorer for at least 30 minutes to warm up the transmission and see how it shifts.

What to check:

• Start the engine and let it warm up for 5 minutes
• Shift from park to reverse – should be smooth no clunking
• Shift from reverse to drive – should engage quickly
• Drive on the highway for at least 15 minutes
• Pay attention to how it shifts from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd
• Try hard acceleration – transmission should downshift smoothly
• Coast to a stop – transmission should downshift without jerking
• Any slipping hard shifting or delayed engagement is a red flag

I always tell customers if the transmission feels weird at all dont buy it. Transmission repairs are too expensive to risk it.

Engine Inspection:

• Check for oil leaks around valve covers oil pan and rear main seal
• Look for coolant leaks at radiator water pump and hoses
• Check oil level and condition – should be clean not sludgy
• Listen for any ticking rattling or knocking noises
• Check for white smoke from exhaust (head gasket failure)
• Make sure check engine light isnt on

Electrical System Check:

• Test all power windows and door locks
• Check backup camera and infotainment system
• Test all lights (headlights taillights brake lights turn signals)
• Check dashboard for warning lights
• Test AC and heater
• Check all USB ports and power outlets

Suspension and Steering:

• Turn the wheel all the way left and right while parked – listen for noises
• Drive slow in a parking lot and make tight turns
• Get on the highway and make sure steering feels normal
• Check for any vibrations or pulling to one side
• Look under the vehicle for leaking shocks or broken springs

Brake System:

• Test the brake pedal – should feel firm not spongy
• Try hard braking from highway speeds
• Listen for any grinding or squealing
• Make sure it stops strait without pulling
• Check brake fluid level

What to Listen For:

• Transmission whining or grinding
• Engine ticking or knocking
• Suspension clunking or rattling
• Brake squealing or grinding
• Exhaust leaks

Test Drive Tips

What to Feel For:

• Smooth acceleration no hesitation
• Transmission shifts smoothly
• Steering feels tight not loose
• Brakes stop the vehicle quickly
• No vibrations at highway speeds

Warning Signs:

• Any weird noises
• Transmission slipping or hard shifting
• Engine hesitation or stalling
• Steering feels loose or wandering
• Brakes feel spongy or take too long to stop

If you notice any of these walk away. Dont buy a vehicle with problems hoping you can fix them cheap cause it never works out that way.

Maintenance Records

What to Look For:

• Regular oil changes every 5000 to 7000 miles
• Transmission fluid changes every 60000 miles
• Brake service records
• Any major repairs (transmission engine suspension)
• Recall work completed

Deal Breakers:

• No maintenance records at all
• Long gaps between oil changes
• Evidence of major accidents
• Salvage or rebuilt title
• Odometer rollback

If the seller cant provide any maintenance records thats a huge red flag like a really big red flag. Walk away and find something else cause that usualy means they didnt take care of the vehicle.

Questions to Ask Seller:

• Why are you selling it?
• Has it ever had transmission problems?
• Any engine or electrical issues?
• Has it been in any accidents?
• Do you have all maintenance records?
• Are there any warning lights on?

Listen to how they answer. If they hesitate or seem unsure thats a red flag.

Common Negotiation Points

Known Issues to Check:

• Transmission condition (most important)
• Engine leaks or noises
• Electrical problems
• Suspension wear
• Paint condition

Price Adjustments:

• Needs new tires: $600-$1,000
• Needs brakes: $400-$800
• Minor electrical issues: $200-$500
• Paint work needed: $500-$2,000

Use any problems you find to negotiate a lower price. If the seller wont budge walk away.

Ford Explorer Maintenance Tips

If you already own an Explorer or your gonna buy one heres how to keep it running as long as possible based on what Ive seen work over the years.

Oil Change Schedule: Change your oil every 5000 miles with synthetic oil. I dont care what the owners manual says about longer intervals especialy with the EcoBoost engines. Change it at 5000 and your engine will last way longer.

Ive seen engines with 250000 miles that had oil changes every 5000 miles and they were stil running perfect like brand new almost.

Transmission Fluid: This is critical especialy on 2002-2010 models. Change the transmission fluid every 30000 to 40000 miles. The manual says lifetime fluid but thats not true at all. Fresh fluid can prevent alot of transmission problems.

Costs like 150 to 250 bucks and its worth every penny trust me. Ive seen so many transmissions fail cause people never changed the fluid.

Brake System Maintenance:

• Check brake pads every 15000 miles
• Replace pads when they get to 3mm thickness
• Flush brake fluid every 3 years
• Check brake lines for rust or damage

Suspension Care:

• Have suspension inspected every 30000 miles
• Replace worn ball joints tie rod ends and control arms
• Check for leaking shocks or struts
• Keep tires properly inflated and rotated

DIY vs Mechanic Work: Some stuff you can do yourself:

• Oil changes (if you have the tools)
• Air filter replacement
• Cabin filter replacement
• Wiper blade replacement
• Battery terminal cleaning

Leave these to a mechanic:

• Transmission work
• Engine repairs
• Electrical system diagnosis
• Suspension work
• Brake system repairs

Cost-Saving Tips:

• Buy parts online (cheaper than dealer)
• Use independent mechanic instead of dealer
• Do simple maintenance yourself
• Fix small problems before they become big problems
• Keep up with regular maintenance (prevents expensive repairs)

Change your transmission fluid every 60000 miles I dont care what the manual says. This one thing can save you thousands of dollars in transmission repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year Ford Explorer to avoid? Avoid 2002-2006 especialy 2002 which had the highest complaints. Also skip 2016 and 2020. The 2002-2006 models have major transmission and engine problems that cost thousands to fix. The 2016 has exhaust fumes in cabin and suspension issues. The 2020 is the first year of a new generation and has transmission electrical and structural problems. Ive worked on probly 50 of the 2002-2006 models and they all have transmission issues.

Is Explorer or Pilot more reliable? The Honda Pilot is generaly more reliable especialy compared to 2002-2006 Explorers. But 2009-2012 and 2018-2019 Explorers are pretty close to the Pilot in reliability. The Pilot might have a slight edge overall but the Explorer has more power and better towing capacity. For used SUVs under 15000 bucks both are solid choices if you get good years. Ive worked on both and the Pilot has fewer transmission problems but the Explorer is easier to work on.

How long do Ford Explorers last? A well-maintained Explorer can easily hit 200000 miles maybe even 250000 if you take care of it. The key is regular oil changes transmission fluid changes and fixing problems early before they get worse. Ive seen 2009-2010 Explorers with over 220000 miles stil running strong. The worst years like 2002-2006 usualy dont make it past 150000 miles without major repairs. Change your oil every 5000 miles and transmission fluid every 60000 miles and your Explorer will last alot longer.

What year Explorer has transmission problems? The 2002-2006 models have the worst transmission problems with the 5R55 transmission. The 2020 also has transmission issues with the new 10-speed automatic. Some 1995-2001 models have transmission problems too but not as bad as 2002-2006. Ive rebuilt probly 40 transmissions on 2002-2006 Explorers. Repair costs range from 2500 to 3500 bucks for a complete rebuild. The 2009-2012 and 2018-2019 models have way fewer transmission problems.

Are Ford Explorers expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs are about average for a midsize SUV. Regular maintenance like oil changes brakes and tires costs about the same as other SUVs. Major repairs like transmission or engine work can be expensive especialy on 2002-2006 models. Parts are cheaper than imports cause theyre more common. Labor costs at independent shops are usualy 80 to 100 bucks an hour. Dealers charge like 120 to 150 an hour. Overall if you avoid the bad years and keep up with maintenance costs are reasonable.

Best used Ford Explorer to buy? The best used Explorers are 2009-2010 (fourth generation) 2011-2012 (early fifth generation) and 2018-2019 (late fifth generation). These years have good reliability scores low complaint rates and reasonable prices. For budget buyers the 2009-2010 models are great value at like 8000 to 12000 bucks. For newer tech and safety the 2018-2019 models are worth the extra money at like 20000 to 30000 bucks. Avoid 2002-2006 2016 and 2020 no matter how cheap they are.

Conclusion

The good news is that if you avoid the problem years especialy 2002-2006 and 2020 you can get a realy solid SUV that will last 200000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Just do your research before you buy.