Is the 2018 Ford Explorer reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, but it has known weak spots—most notably potential water pump leaks on 3.5L engines and occasional electrical/infotainment glitches.

What are the most common 2018 Ford Explorer problems?

Frequently reported issues include water pump/coolant leaks on 3.5L engines, exhaust odor concerns on some EcoBoost models, steering/suspension wear, and SYNC 3 or backup camera intermittency.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2018 Explorer?

Routine maintenance is typical for a midsize SUV, but certain repairs (like a water pump job on a 3.5L) can be expensive due to labor, so budgeting for preventative care and inspections is wise.

What are the best years to buy for a Ford Explorer?

Many shoppers look at later fifth-generation years due to incremental updates; comparing 2016–2019 models can be a good starting point, and reviewing service history matters more than model year alone.

What should I check before buying a used 2018 Ford Explorer?

Verify complete service records, check for coolant loss or overheating history, test all electronics (SYNC, camera, sensors), inspect tire wear/alignment, and get a pre-purchase inspection that includes a cooling system and underbody/leak check. For full specs, trim-by-trim features, fluid capacities, and the complete maintenance schedule, get a complete 2018 Ford Explorer owner’s guide before you buy.

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

2018 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C-

A family hauler with power and space, but demanding proactive maintenance and a budget for known high-cost repairs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2018 Ford Explorer

Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2017 Ford Explorer earns a 79.
The system most likely to surface first: power transfer unit (ptu) (major severity).
Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the seats:front assembly:recliner.

2018 Ford Explorer: Buy or Avoid?

The 2018 Ford Explorer offers spacious utility and robust engine options, but buyers must be acutely aware of its few, albeit significant, reliability weak points. While generally comfortable and capable, neglecting known issues like the internal water pump or Power Transfer Unit (PTU) can lead to substantial repair costs. Approach this SUV with a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear budget for potential maintenance and repairs to avoid unpleasant surprises.

The 2018 Ford Explorer can be a great family vehicle with substantial utility, but its specific, high-cost reliability issues prevent a confident recommendation. Buyers must be diligent with pre-purchase inspections and have a contingency fund for potential repairs, especially concerning the PTU and 3.5L engine's wa…

Best Model Years

2016-2019 (late 5th Gen) offered refinements, but the 2020+ (6th Gen) is a completely redesigned platform with different reliability trends.

Years to Avoid

2011-2013 (early 5th Gen) due to more frequent complaints and original design flaws.

Biggest Strengths

Spacious and comfortable interior for families
Strong engine performance, especially with EcoBoost options
Capable AWD system for varied weather conditions

2018 Ford Explorer — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that tend to fail first on the 2018 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.

Power Transfer Unit (PTU)major~60,000-100,000 mi

The PTU, particularly on AWD models, is prone to leaking fluid, overheating, and eventual failure due to poor design and inadequate cooling. Symptoms include grinding noises, clunking, or burnt oil smell.

Engine (3.5L V6 Internal Water Pump)critical~80,000-120,000 mi

On 3.5L V6 engines (both naturally aspirated and EcoBoost), the water pump is located internally within the engine, driven by the timing chain. Failure often leads to coolant leaking into the oil, potentially causing catastrophic engine…

Electrical / HVAC Systemmoderate~30,000-70,000 mi

Owners frequently report issues with the SYNC infotainment system (freezing, unresponsiveness), A/C blower motor or resistor failure, and occasionally power liftgate malfunctions. While not always critical, these can be persistent annoya…

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

2018 Ford Explorer Mileage Danger Zones

The mileage windows when the 2018 Ford Explorer most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.

30,000

Low Risk Zone

At this mileage, most issues are minor electrical glitches or early warning signs of wear. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations.

60,000

Maintenance Zone

This mileage often marks the expiration of original warranties. Important service includes spark plugs (EcoBoost), transmission fluid check/change, and thorough inspection for PTU leaks and suspension component wear.

90,000

Elevated Risk Zone

The risk of major component failures increases significantly here. Diligent inspection of the engine's water pump (3.5L V6) and the PTU is paramount to avoid costly breakdowns.

120,000+

High Risk Zone

Beyond 120,000 miles, nearly all major components are past their prime. Be prepared for potentially significant repairs on the engine, transmission, and AWD system. A comprehensive mechanical inspection is a must.

2018 Ford Explorer Ownership Cost Outlook

What it typically costs to keep the 2018 Ford Explorer on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.

Annual Maintenance

$500-750

Moderate Repairs

$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., PTU seal, A/C blower, suspension components)

How Long Does the 2018 Ford Explorer Last?

Focus on purchasing a 2018 Explorer with well-documented service history, ideally under 75,000 miles, to mitigate the immediate risk of major component failures. Budget for critical maintenance and potential repairs as mileage approaches the 100,000-mile mark.

What 2018 Ford Explorer Owners Actually Say

What Owners Love

Spacious and comfortable for families, offering ample cargo room.
Strong acceleration and towing capacity, particularly with EcoBoost engines.
Quiet cabin and smooth ride quality on highways.
Optional AWD system provides confidence in adverse weather.

Common Frustrations

Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6 engines.
Third-row access can be cumbersome for adults.
Frustrating and glitchy SYNC infotainment system experience.
High repair costs for specific known mechanical issues (water pump, PTU).

Who Should Buy the 2018 Ford Explorer?

Best For

Families needing significant passenger and cargo space.
Buyers prioritizing available engine power and towing capacity.
Individuals who need capable AWD for winter weather or light off-roading.

Not Ideal For

Budget-conscious owners seeking ultimate long-term reliability.
Individuals who neglect routine maintenance or skip inspections.

How the 2018 Ford Explorer Compares to Rivals

The Explorer offers a more traditional SUV feel and available power than some rivals, but often at the expense of long-term reliability compared to segment leaders, especially from Asian manufacturers.

More Reliable Than

Dodge Durango (certain model years for general reliability)
Early 5th generation Ford Explorer (2011-2013)

Comparable To

Chevrolet Traverse
Nissan Pathfinder (pre-2022 models)

Safety Recalls on the 2018 Ford Explorer

6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L or 3.5L GTDI engine. Due to an assembly error, the fuel pressure sensor may leak fuel.

What breaks on the 2018 Ford Explorer?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2018 Ford Explorer? Keep it that way.

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

Ford Explorer — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores 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 →

Competing 2018s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report