Ford Explorer ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2015–2025)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Ford Explorer we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Explorer across generations.
Average Score
74/100
Best Year
2017 Ford Explorer
Score 79
Weakest Year
2015 Ford Explorer
Score 68
Every Ford Explorer Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A capable family hauler, but be prepared for a few expensive, common mechanical Achilles' heels.
Top risks: Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) · Internal Water Pump (3.5L V6) · Power Transfer Unit (PTU - AWD Models)
A feature-rich family SUV that demands diligence to overcome its reliability weak spots.
Top risks: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission · Electrical System & Infotainment · Interior Fit & Finish / Body Hardware
A spacious family hauler with known transmission and electrical vulnerabilities that demand careful pre-purchase scrutiny.
Top risks: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6F50/6F55) · Water Leaks / Electrical System · Power Transfer Unit (PTU) - AWD Models
A modern family SUV offering strong performance and utility, but be prepared for potential software and transmission quirks.
Top risks: Electrical / Infotainment System · 10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R80) · Power Liftgate Actuator
A powerful and spacious family SUV, but its powertrain and electrical systems demand a vigilant ownership approach.
Top risks: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission · Electrical System & Infotainment · Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (AWD models)
A refreshed family hauler with solid fundamentals, but anticipate teething issues with its new tech suite.
Top risks: Infotainment/Electrical Systems · Transmission Shifting Logic · Interior Fit and Finish
A family hauler with power and space, but demanding proactive maintenance and a budget for known high-cost repairs.
Top risks: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) · Engine (3.5L V6 Internal Water Pump) · Electrical / HVAC System
A capable family hauler, but early production woes and persistent electrical issues make it a gamble.
Top risks: Electrical System & Infotainment · Transmission (10-speed automatic) · Body & Interior Quality
A roomy family hauler that demands diligent pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance budget.
Top risks: Engine Cooling/Drivetrain · Transmission · Electrical/HVAC
A spacious SUV with significant powertrain risks that demand a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Top risks: Transmission (6F50/6F55) · Engine (3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6) · Electrical & Water Intrusion
A tempting family hauler, but its known mechanical and electrical gremlins make it a moderate reliability gamble.
Top risks: Transmission System · Electrical & Infotainment · Interior & Exterior Build Quality
Problems That Follow the Explorer Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Electrical System & Infotainment
Appears in 3 model years · 27% of generations
10-Speed Automatic Transmission
Appears in 2 model years · 18% of generations
Explorer vs. the Competition
Head-to-head reliability comparisons with the Explorer's main rivals.