Is a 2007 Ford Explorer reliable?

It can be reliable when well maintained, but reliability varies heavily by service history. Regular fluid changes and prompt repairs to cooling or driveline issues make a big difference at higher mileage.

What are the most common 2007 Ford Explorer problems?

Frequently reported issues include transmission shifting problems, rear differential whining/bearing wear, coolant leaks from cooling system components (often on the V6), and smaller electrical items like window regulators or door sensors.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2007 Explorer?

Costs are usually moderate for a midsize SUV, but they can spike if you inherit a neglected transmission or differential issue. Budget extra for driveline maintenance and repairs on high-mileage examples.

What are the best years of the Ford Explorer to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later examples within a generation because early-production bugs are often improved over time. Within the 2006–2010 generation, choosing a well-documented, well-maintained vehicle matters more than the exact year.

What should I check before buying a 2007 Ford Explorer?

Confirm smooth transmission operation (no shudder, slipping, or delayed engagement), listen for rear-end whine on the highway, check for coolant leaks and stable operating temperature, and verify all power accessories and warning lights function correctly. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, capacities, recommended fluids, and the exact maintenance schedules to keep a 2007 Ford Explorer running strong.

HomeVehicles

Vehicles Compare Blog Get Report

Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2007 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A practical but potentially problematic SUV, where careful selection and preventative maintenance are non-negotiable.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2007 Ford Explorer?

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.

Biggest Strengths

Rugged body-on-frame construction
Spacious interior for families
Strong towing capability with V8 engine

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2007 Ford Explorer. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Automatic Transmission (V6 models)major

Frame and Underbody Rustcritical

HVAC Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2007 Ford Explorer? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Ford Explorer by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Ford Explorer. Click any year for its full report.

All Ford Explorer years ranked →Ford Explorer years to avoid →Ford Explorer common problems →

If You're Considering This, Also Look At

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.

2005 ChevroletSuburban

2005 JeepGrand Cherokee

62/100

Relevant Products for Your 2007 Ford Explorer

Parts and accessories matched to your 2007 Ford Explorer

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report