Ford Explorer Years to AvoidThe weakest years — and the one you should buy instead
After reviewing every Ford Explorer we've analyzed (11 years), these are the 3 weakest. Each one has either an absolute low reliability score, chronic repair issues, or unusually high ownership costs relative to other Explorer years.
Proceed with caution
2015 Ford Explorer
The 2015 Ford Explorer presents a mixed bag, offering spacious utility but demanding a cautious approach due to several well-documented, potentially expensive failures. While strong engines and a comfortable ride are notable, prospective owners must be prepared for known issues, especially concerning the drivetrain and cooling systems, or risk significant repair costs down the line.
Why this year scores low
Internal water pump failure on 3.5L V6 engines (non-EcoBoost) is a critical concern, often leaking internally and contaminating oil, leading to engine damage. The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) on AWD models is also highly prone to overheating and failure, manifesting as a loud whine or grinding.
The 6F55 6-speed automatic transmission is prone to harsh shifting, shuddering, hesitation, and occasional complete failure, often related to valve body issues or clutch pack wear. While some can be addressed with software updates, mechanical repairs are common.
MyFord Touch/SYNC infotainment system is notoriously glitchy, freezing, slow, or losing connectivity. Beyond that, A/C evaporator leaks are a widespread issue, requiring extensive dashboard disassembly for repair, leading to high labor costs.
Proceed with caution
2016 Ford Explorer
The 2016 Ford Explorer, while offering ample space and decent power, presents a moderate reliability risk due to several known critical flaws. Prospective buyers should proceed with significant caution, particularly scrutinizing the transmission and engine health, as these can lead to extremely expensive repairs.
Why this year scores low
Owners frequently report shuddering, harsh shifts, delayed engagements, and complete transmission failure. This often stems from valve body issues, torque converter problems, or worn internal components, necessitating costly rebuilds or replacements.
The water pump on the 3.5L V6 is internally mounted, meaning its failure can lead to coolant leaking into the oil or catastrophic engine damage. The repair is extremely labor-intensive, often requiring engine removal, leading to very high costs.
Reports of persistent water leaks from sunroof drains, A-pillars, or roof rails are common, leading to water in the footwells and potential damage to electrical modules, affecting everything from SYNC to power accessories.
Proceed with caution
2021 Ford Explorer
The 2021 Ford Explorer, while offering compelling features and a spacious interior, is a vehicle you should approach with significant caution. Its early production years of the redesigned platform are plagued with well-documented transmission and electrical issues that can lead to costly and frustrating ownership experiences. While appealing, it demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance budget.
Why this year scores low
The 10-speed automatic transmission is notorious for rough, jerky shifts, hesitation at low speeds, and occasional complete failures. These issues often stem from valve body problems, solenoid malfunctions, or software calibration. Many owners report inconsistent shifting behavior that significantly detracts from the driving experience.
Numerous complaints about the infotainment system freezing, going blank, or experiencing slow responses. Other electrical issues include random warning lights, parasitic battery drain, non-functional backup cameras (TSB 20-2216), and power liftgate malfunctions. These problems are often intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
Early models of this generation, including 2021, show signs of rushed production. Owners report misaligned body panels, poorly fitting interior trim pieces, rattles, and issues with weather stripping. Power liftgate motors can fail, leading to non-operation or excessive noise. Windshield cracking issues were also noted (TSB 20-2051).