Is the 2019 Ford Explorer reliable?

Overall reliability is average for the class, with many owners reaching high mileage, but it’s important to watch for known issues like water pump leaks on 3.5L engines and occasional transmission or electrical complaints.

What are the most common 2019 Ford Explorer problems?

Common issues include internal water pump leaks (3.5L), occasional exhaust odor concerns, rough or hesitant transmission shifting, and intermittent SYNC/backup camera or electrical glitches.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2019 Explorer?

Routine maintenance is similar to other midsize SUVs, but certain repairs—especially a water pump job on 3.5L engines—can be costly, so preventative inspections and service records matter.

What are the best years to buy a Ford Explorer?

Many shoppers prefer later years of a generation for updates and refinements; 2019 is the final year of the 2011–2019 generation, while some buyers also cross-shop early 2020+ models for the redesigned platform and features.

What should I check before buying a used 2019 Ford Explorer?

Review service records, test all electronics (SYNC, camera, sensors), check for coolant loss or overheating history, confirm smooth transmission operation on a long test drive, and inspect tires, brakes, and any signs of exhaust smell or leaks. For a smarter purchase and easier ownership, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the exact maintenance schedules for the 2019 Ford Explorer.

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

2019 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A spacious family hauler with known transmission and electrical vulnerabilities that demand careful pre-purchase scrutiny.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2019 Ford Explorer?

The 2019 Ford Explorer closes out its generation with some persistent reliability challenges, primarily centered around its automatic transmission and potential for frustrating electrical glitches. While offering strong family utility and a comfortable ride, potential buyers must exercise caution and conduct thorough inspections to avoid costly repairs down the road, especially with higher mileage examples.

Biggest Strengths

Robust engine options (if maintained)
Spacious and comfortable interior for families
Strong towing capability for its class

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2019 Ford Explorer. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6F50/6F55)major

Water Leaks / Electrical Systemmoderate

Power Transfer Unit (PTU) - AWD Modelsmajor

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

NHTSA Recalls

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

STRUCTURE:BODY

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.

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."

What breaks on the 2019 Ford Explorer?

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

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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 →

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Parts and accessories matched to your 2019 Ford Explorer

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Go Deeper on the 2019 Ford Explorer

Written guides covering every angle of this vehicle — problems, maintenance, ownership costs, and lifespan.

Common Problems

Complete guide to 2019 Ford Explorer problems. Known issues, recalls, TSBs, and what to watch for at every mileage range.

Reliability Deep-Dive

Honest 2019 Ford Explorer reliability breakdown. Engine, transmission, electrical ratings plus real owner data.

Maintenance Schedule

2019 Ford Explorer complete maintenance schedule. Oil changes, brake service, tire rotation, fluid flushes — with costs.

Lifespan & Mileage

How many miles can a 2019 Ford Explorer last? Real-world lifespan data, what fails first, and how to maximize longevity.

Issues by Mileage

Every common 2019 Ford Explorer issue organized by mileage. Know what breaks at 50k, 100k, 150k+ miles.

5-Year Cost Breakdown

Real cost to own a 2019 Ford Explorer. Insurance, maintenance, fuel, depreciation, and surprise repair costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report