2015 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2015 Ford Explorer
- The system most likely to surface first: engine cooling/drivetrain (critical severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:rear.
- Scores 11 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2017 Ford Explorer earns a 79.
Is the 2015 Ford Explorer Worth Buying?
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.
The 2015 Ford Explorer can be a great family SUV if you find a well-maintained example, particularly one with the EcoBoost engine or a documented water pump replacement on the 3.5L NA V6. However, its significant drivetrain and cooling system weaknesses mean you must proceed with extreme caution, factoring in potent…
Best Model Years
2016-2019 (facelift, some issues addressed, although PTU remains a concern)
Years to Avoid
2011-2015 (pre-facelift, higher incidence of major known issues, especially the 3.5L NA water pump)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust overall structure and crash test performance
- Powerful engine options (especially EcoBoost)
- Comfortable ride and spacious interior for families
What Tends to Fail First on the 2015 Ford Explorer
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2015 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.
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 overheatin…
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, mecha…
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 c…
2015 Ford Explorer Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2015 Ford Explorer most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
This period is generally trouble-free, primarily requiring routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. However, some early brake wear might begin to manifest.
Maintenance Zone
Around this mileage, the Explorer may start showing signs of the more significant known issues. Maintenance becomes crucial; neglecting it here can accelerate serious problems.
Elevated Risk Zone
This is where transmission issues often surface, and any ignored water pump or PTU problems could become critical. Suspension components will likely need attention.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the risk of major engine or transmission failure significantly increases, especially if previous preventative maintenance or repairs were skipped. Expect more frequent and costly repairs.
2015 Ford Explorer Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2015 Ford Explorer on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$800-2,500 occasionally (e.g., PTU, A/C evaporator, transmission work)
How Long Does the 2015 Ford Explorer Last?
Given the critical known issues, I'd strongly recommend looking for a 2015 Explorer with under 70,000 miles and a verifiable service history, allowing you some buffer before major components typically fail.
What 2015 Ford Explorer Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Spacious third-row seating (for an SUV of its class)
- Strong acceleration, especially with EcoBoost engines
- Comfortable and quiet highway ride
- Stylish exterior design with a commanding road presence
Common Frustrations
- MyFord Touch system is consistently frustrating and glitchy
- Poor fuel economy, particularly with the V6 engines
- Large turning radius makes it cumbersome in tight parking lots
- Limited rear visibility due to thick pillars
Who Should Buy the 2015 Ford Explorer?
Best For
- Families needing occasional third-row seating
- Buyers prioritizing style and ride comfort over absolute reliability
- Individuals with a healthy emergency repair fund
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal repair expenses
- Anyone who neglects preventative maintenance
How the 2015 Ford Explorer Compares to Rivals
The Explorer offers more style and power than some rivals but falls short in long-term dependability compared to top Japanese competitors. It's often compared to other large American SUVs, where reliability can be similarly inconsistent.
More Reliable Than
- 2015 Dodge Journey (significantly poorer reliability, less refined)
- 2015 Nissan Pathfinder (CVT transmission issues)
Comparable To
- 2015 Chevrolet Traverse (similar scale of issues, often transmission-related)
2015 Ford Explorer Recall History
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SUSPENSION:REAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
WHEELS:HUB
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.
What breaks on the 2015 Ford Explorer?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Ford Explorer Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford Explorer. Click any year for its full report.
2015 Ford Explorer Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2015 Ford Explorer
Parts and accessories matched to your 2015 Ford Explorer
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Frequently Asked Questions
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