2007 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2007 Ford Explorer
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2005 Ford Explorer earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (v6 models) (major severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the visibility:glass, side/rear.
2007 Ford Explorer: Buy or Avoid?
The 2007 Ford Explorer offers a robust body-on-frame SUV experience with ample space and towing capability, but it's a vehicle that demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection and dedicated maintenance. While the V8 engine is generally solid, the notorious 5R55S automatic transmission in V6 models and susceptibility to rust mean you must proceed with significant caution to avoid costly repairs.
While the 2007 Ford Explorer offers a lot of utility for the money, its significant vulnerabilities, particularly the V6 transmission and widespread rust potential, mean it is not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle. A confident purchase requires an extremely diligent pre-purchase inspection and a clear understanding o…
Best Model Years
2008-2010 (later 4th Gen models tend to have fewer reported issues, though 5R55S is still present)
Years to Avoid
2002-2005 (earlier 3rd Gen models had more widespread transmission and early V6 engine timing chain issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Rugged body-on-frame construction
- Spacious interior for families
- Strong towing capability with V8 engine
2007 Ford Explorer — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2007 Ford Explorer, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 5R55S transmission is prone to solenoid body failures, delayed shifts, slipping, and harsh engagements, often requiring significant repair or replacement due to design weaknesses and wear.
Significant rust and corrosion on the frame, suspension components, brake lines, and fuel lines are common, especially in regions exposed to road salt, leading to structural integrity concerns and component failure.
The blend door actuators frequently fail, leading to improper temperature control (e.g., only hot or only cold air) or air only blowing from defrost vents. Repair is labor-intensive due to dash removal.
2007 Ford Explorer Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2007 Ford Explorer most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
This period typically involves routine maintenance. Ensure all factory recalls (if any) have been addressed and basic fluid changes are up to date.
Maintenance Zone
Many wear items like spark plugs, drive belts, and potentially suspension components will start needing attention. Frame rust should be monitored closely from this point.
Elevated Risk Zone
Transmission issues for V6 models often begin to surface here. Expect more significant suspension wear and increased vigilance for frame rust. HVAC blend door actuators are also frequent culprits.
High Risk Zone
Major component fatigue becomes a real concern. Transmission replacement (V6), serious rust repair, and potential engine issues (V6 timing chains) are all possibilities. Requires significant preventative care or budget for major repairs.
2007 Ford Explorer Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2007 Ford Explorer on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., blend door, ball joints)
How Long Does the 2007 Ford Explorer Last?
Focus on low-mileage examples that have comprehensive service records, especially for transmission fluid changes and rust proofing. Avoid high-mileage V6 models unless you have a confirmed transmission overhaul.
What 2007 Ford Explorer Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Commanding driving position and good visibility.
- Comfortable ride for long journeys.
- Ample cargo space with folding third-row seats.
- Impressive towing capacity for a mid-size SUV (especially V8).
Common Frustrations
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 engine.
- V6 transmission reliability is a constant source of anxiety.
- Persistent issues with HVAC blend door actuators.
- Significant struggle with frame rust in northern climates.
Who Should Buy the 2007 Ford Explorer?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers needing a V8 for towing
- Families needing abundant space on a tight budget
- DIY mechanics comfortable tackling common repairs
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking peak fuel efficiency
- Drivers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership
How the 2007 Ford Explorer Compares to Rivals
The 2007 Explorer sits in the middle of the pack for its segment, offering strong capability but falling short of Japanese rivals in terms of long-term reliability due to specific systemic weaknesses, primarily its V6 transmission and pervasive rust issues.
More Reliable Than
- 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (often more electrical issues, comparable frame rust)
- 2007 Dodge Durango (mixed reliability, fuel economy)
Comparable To
- 2007 Nissan Pathfinder (similar V6 transmission issues, rust potential)
- 2007 Toyota 4Runner (V6 is more robust, but V8 could be comparable)
Safety Recalls on the 2007 Ford Explorer
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
EQUIPMENT
MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
What breaks on the 2007 Ford Explorer?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Ford Explorer — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Explorer. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2007s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2007 Ford Explorer
Parts and accessories matched to your 2007 Ford Explorer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
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