In terms of trims, there were a few. The 2001 Ford Explorer is definitely up there in terms of vehicle age, but youll still find a few of these cruising the streets in retro style. It is part of the exhaust odor investigation and the rear toe link recall noted in the 2013, but has its own unique problems. There were a number of failures. If your budget is a bit limited but you would still like to stay relatively updated in terms of electronics and engine technology, then the 2018 Ford Explorer is a mighty option to look for in the used car market. The issues with transmission, engines, body, etc irritate the customers a lot. Are you looking for a used Ford Explorer and you are looking to learn the Ford Explorer years to avoid? No idea how it happened. For example, the gearbox frequently failed, slipped, or missed, which resulted in some terrible incidents for the driver who experienced this difficulty. A $500 repair was necessary when the panel under the back window cracked, which typically happens about 80,000 miles. YoullYoull notice that the third generation models made between 2002 and 2006 produced the highest number of problems. Following suit, the 2004 Ford Explorer also had a window panel cracking problem, which was the subject of an outstanding 770 complaints. Suspension etc. Wheel bearings, tranny, door controls. It is older so I need to repair it semi often. It only got 14 mpg in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and 16 mpg combined. We have a focus on strong photography, and engaging articles about performance, luxury and interesting cars. The wheel bearing is a issue that affects that model. ). The 2002 model is prone to having its door sensors stop registering that the door is closed making your light stay on and drain your battery. But not all, model years are created equal. But overall, it got an Acceptable score for the 2006 model. "text": "When it comes to the best year, we would recommend going for a 2018 or 2019 model year. There were still two naturally aspirated ones. Brakes, radiator, I feel like getting rid of it. The fuel economy of this model was rather poor. Depending on your issue, the repair cost might be as low as $50 or as much as $2,000 per issue. And of course, most dealt with transmission inadequacies. The light is hard to recognize as on during the day so it's easy to have a battery die while out if the issue occurs. Unexpectedly, owners said the vehicle also had a paint corrosion problem, with a typical repair bill of about $500. More precisely, the last generation is 198.8 inches long which puts it in the mid-size category. 2003 was not much better with almost 2,000 reports, and also a lot for the same plastic panel in the rear that was prone to cracking. Battery has been replaced every year. The technology is amazing you almost dont need to drive. Also, the weight is pretty much the same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs. Those include side marker lenses that failed to meet federal standards and a bad set of tires. Not that there is no better option available." I am here to help you with your car questions. Still, they are a good value for the money. It had a serious transmission problem that required repairs that might have cost up to $3000, and the problem often began after 100,000 miles. Check out our list of the best two-seater cars on the market today. Despite the Ford Explorers great reputation, there are some models that most experts and critics agree should be avoided. If youre in the market for a speedy two-seater, weve got you covered. Ford Escape Years To Avoid (5 Common Problems) August 17, 2022 / By Bryan Matt Ford Escape is a trailblazer SUV with lots of good features and techs. Hopefully, they will sort it out. The power steering system produced more than one-third of the 1,433 NHTSA complaints. On Kelley Blue Book, one review for the 2008 model was short and sweet: Overall a very good car, it only had one previous owner before me as far as I know and I havent had any major problems. These vehicles even though have issues, can last for a really long time. "@type": "Answer", There are hundreds of models and each of these has different generations and each one of them has different problems. When you're ready to buy your next car, CoPilot helps you make sure you never get taken advantage of at the dealership. Things as major as transmission failure, transmission slipping, the O/D light blinking, or just difficulties shifting are all reported frequently, according to. Different transmission issues were reportedly present in 2006, 2002, and 2004 model years. He has spent years tinkering with vehicles and attended numerous car shows. Listed below are complaints and problems listed for each model year: Based on the information we have gathered online, here are the most common issues that you may encounter with a Ford Explorer: The Ford Explorer is a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, ranking fifteenth overall, scoring the same as the Nissan Murano. Others had to fix the transmission for hesitating, and this cost on average $2,800. Sad day! Namely, water pump failures on the Cyclone V6. But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Wondering if you could be paying less for your policy each month? Even with the 2006 redesign, Owners experienced hard shifting and lunging along with radiator failures, according to MotorBiscuit. The Ford Explorer is just an inch shy of 200 inches. },{ The 2005 Ford Explorer was no stranger to paint peeling off or the paint job rusting at a very early stage of the car, just like the previous vehicle model. These have the least reports on issues. Despite having a rather sturdy drivetrain, Ford Explorers are nevertheless subject to complaints. Worst of 2022! Problems from this model year tend to appear at lower mileage, and footing the huge bill for repairs did not sit well with owners. The 2017 Explorer had a total of 109 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 772 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. And this is probably a software problem. Not the best experience I've had too many problems constantly costing too much additional expenses. This includes the newer models from 2017 and some older They are, therefore, the ideal models to choose from when looking for a used Ford Explorer., For the first-generation models, the most common issues experienced were transmission problems and engine problems. The main problems of the 2002, 2003, and 2004 Ford Explorer models are the following: Based on reviews and statistics online, the major flaw of the 1996 2000 Ford Explorer models revolved around their faulty transmission systems. In this article, well provide you with all the knowledge you need about the Ford Explorer model years to avoid. Lets talk about the reasons these are the Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid so you can make the best choice for your life. Engine problems came to life most often with the 2001 model, 2005 model, and 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac model. The main problems of the 2011 Ford Explorer are the following: Transmission lunges and hard jolts were hand-in-hand issues for the 2006 model year and appeared at around 49,000 miles for most Explorer owners. "@type": "Answer", The power steering recently had an issue. Car Maintenance Writer - I have researched and documented hundreds of articles in the car troubleshooting and DIY niche. The car has been very reliable thus far. Would you like to know more than the salesperson? The 2002 model year has almost 4,000 complaints of which 1,500 are on the automatic transmission. These two model years have the least reports of any model years on problems. Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year! year to help you gain confidence about one of your largest purchase decisions. The 2016 Explorer is okay, there are better ones out there. Not that there is no better option available. If you have a good eye for quality used vehicles in the second-hand market, then you may be able to find a great 2007, 2008, 2009, or 2010 Ford Explorer model at reasonable rates. The Ford Explorer has also been the subject of alot of criticism due to its myriad problems or defects. Issues with putting the vehicle into reverse were well known on the 2020 Explorer, among many other transmission-related problems such as rough shifting. CoPilot helps you avoid any tricks, traps, and scams. Hey all, I'm working on buying my first Explorer. The Ford Explorer is made in the US. Its not only important to choose the right vehicle for your familys lifestyle, but its also crucial to get the right coverage to fit your driving needs. Namely, because of the reports of hard shifts for this model. I've been looking at a few years like the 98's, 96's and some others from 91-94. But what are the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The 2003 Explorer XLT 4.0L V6 model had the most recorded wheel hub issues. But also, the paint was a big problem as well. However, there are several Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid if you want to get the most out of your vehicle. Reports have shown this to occur at an average mileage mark of 44,000 miles. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? Even though it looks like an upgrade, this model is built on a different platform. The safety is also good and the newest model implements the most modern tech when it comes to drivers assistance. Finding out how much my insurance will cost is a big part of that. Just be careful to omit the 2006 model if youre considering the fourth-generation Explorer options. These are used by the police in really big numbers and they proved to be quite reliable vehicles." It was a four-door SUV made to replace the outgoing two-door Bronco II. 2013 Explorer has poor quality headlights. "@type": "Answer", (8 Causes & Solutions). Members save $872/year. Which is a crazy number of Ford SUVs and Ford created an extensive legacy when it comes to the Explorer badge. Well, if this is the case, then you are at the right place because this article will be all about this model and we are going to find out all you need to know. The Ford Explorer from the 2002 to 2006 model years is one of the worst used car purchases a buyer can make when all of these issues are considered. Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. It has earned a loyal following since its 1991 debut, and even survived an SUV-to-crossover transition in 2011. One Explorer owner had this to say on Kelley Blue Book: I dont think there is another SUV more powerful than this one, I got the platinum version. Fuel mileage about 19.0 mpg. With outstanding crash-test scores and above-average interior and cargo space, the 2010 Ford Escape is one of the best model years. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great engine and exceptional amenities. And if you want to find a good purchase, you need to learn more about them. The 2016 Explorer had a total of 435 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,688 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. WebShop 2017 Ford Explorer vehicles in Spanish Fork, UT for sale at Cars.com. The 4X4 did not tip over in the test. While the 2013 Ford Explorer is the worst year of the fifth generation for complaints and recalls, it should be noted that all 2011 to 2017 Ford Explorer vehicles are part of an active NHTSA investigation regarding the presence of carbon monoxide and an exhaust odor in the drivers cabin. 2013 Ford Explorer has had suspension issues. Only a few are problematic. Source: gtcarlot.com. 2023 Vehicle History Inc. All Rights Reserved. Owners will also enjoy a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and great fuel economy. Save Provo, UT this $11,668 on a 2015 Ford Explorer Sport 4WD on CarGurus. Also, during the side impact test, the drivers door popped open. This cost about $1,800 and was experienced at 49,000 miles. Now lets dive into the generations of the Ford Explorer. From 2002 through 2005, the entire third generation of the Explorer had a lot of complaints. This allowed many suspension improvements to be introduced and this made the Explorer a proper modern SUV. In general, the Ford Explorer SUVs initial model years were plagued by several problems. Here are the Sport Trac years to avoid if you want to get good value for your money. Car buying can occasionally be frustrating, especially if youre purchasing your vehicle through a dealership. Web2007 Ford Explorer 4.0 Engine. Ford Explorers from the fifth and sixth generations have fewer complaints. Fuel economy for this model is well above par, whether you choose the gas-only or hybrid option. Many car drivers claimed that the transmission frequently failed, the gears occasionally even leaped without warning, and they were sometimes exceedingly challenging to change. Some people may say that any Ford Explorer made before 2005 should be avoided, while others may say that only the very first generation (1991-1994) should be More on that in a bit. I have had problems with my car not wanting to shift gears into reverse and or will pop into neutral sometimes. The models listed below are the versions of the vehicle that you may want to steer clear of. There are way too many family vacations to plan to be overcharged every month by your car insurance. "@type": "Question", Expert advice on car parts, maintenance, and repair. Overall, a pretty clunky transmission. Electrical issues. In addition to this, there were engine failures reported on the 2003 model with the V6 engine because of a bad timing chain. The Ford Explorer has been produced and marketed for about 30 years. It has remained a reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with. Most of the model years produced have recorded few complaints. Below are the examples that are safe to buy: With the proper maintenance, these Ford Explorer models have a superior reliability rating and can travel over 200,000 miles. The main problems of the 2015 Ford Explorer are the following: Paint bubbling was a very common occurrence for the 2014 Explorer. In the following chapters, we are going to cover the last four generations of this model. We have 128,000 trouble-free miles. More on that in a moment. Users save an average of over $800 a year. The 2006 Explorer had a total of 776 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 719 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. Best Years for the Ford Explorer Include 2016-2019s Longstanding Reliability and Well-rounded Performance Josh Brown May 18, 2021 The Ford Explorer is the best-selling SUV in America. It is a ride that can take you anywhere and get you back safely. Not sure if all explorers are like mine but it has a few problems. With adequate technology and capacity for any family, the contemporary Ford Explorer three-row SUV is sporty and stylish. So, if you want something more reliable, always go for a model that is less prone to issues. Motor Verso is an automotive website; for car enthusiasts, run by car enthusiasts. I have to replace the transmission which is going to set me back 5K. Source: gtcarlot.com. All the front end cost me a fortune to get it replaced. A four-cylinder turbocharged engine and excellent fuel efficiency are further benefits for owners. I had problems with the windows went down but then wouldn't go back up. In 2022, it received a consumer score of 81 out of 100, with great individual ratings for resale and driving experience of 83 (out of 100) for both. It only gathered 1,400 NHTSA complaints and five recalls, but it still has the same transmission problems and cracking body panels. The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this make and model so far. Unfortunately, from 2003 to 2006, issues with the Ford Explorers transmission continued. She dreams of showing up to a beach party in a baby blue Volkswagen Thing. Previously, the model was assembled in Louisville, Kentucky." But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? The transmission in the 2006 model reportedly lunged and jerked violently when shifting, and the repair bill came to almost $1,800. Radiator leaks could pop up after about 60,000 miles. Since the Ford Explorer made its debut in 1991 its been a huge success in America. As well as a bigger 3.0L V6 that is also turbocharged producing about 400hp and 415lb-ft of torque. In worst cases, you might even want to throw it off a cliff. The rear body panel (just below the rear window) begins to break after a certain number of miles, which was the most frequently reported problem with the 2004 Ford Explorer. Oil change every 7000, spark plugs 1st time since new, very good auto will probably buy another later.. The car keeps having problems. Most consumers who encountered these problems were left with no choice except to overhaul their wheels and replace their hubs. It In terms of issues, there were a number of problems reported on the Explorer. Interior accessories also posed a slightly high number of complaints at the start of the 2000s., All the fourth-generation models record a low number of complaints except for the 2006 model year. "@type": "Answer", These are used by the police in really big numbers and they proved to be quite reliable vehicles. The fuel economy is rather good, the 2.3L engine gets 20 mpg around town, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg overall. "@type": "Question", But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? But overall, fairly minor problems. In total, I think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the car over the ten years. The 2001 model year is one to stay away from, as it was recalled multiple times for various issues. A short selection of the worst Ford Explorer SUVs to stay away from is provided below: Due to an incredible 3,956 complaints, the 2002 Ford Explorer has been regarded as one of the worst automobiles ever produced. How do I file a claim for car theft insurance? Engine problems with the 4.0L V6 were also reported, namely failures, and blown head gaskets. As for what Kelley Blue Book had to say, all four models surprisingly secured an identical rating of 4.3 out of 5.0. Suspension, shocks, tire rotors etc basically the whole front. We have had several issues with our Ford Explorer. CoPilot searches every car at every dealer, every day, and ranks them based on what matters to you. And got overall 5-stars on the NHTSA tests. The vehicle has had its fair share of troubles with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. Try the free CoPilot car shopping app. Ask me anything. Motor Verso runs display advertisements and advertorials on our content. Unless youve got the extra cash to repair or replace the 2002 transmission. The only big problems I have had so far is some suspension trouble. It has established itself as a mainstay in the Ford SUV line-up and was most recently given the high-performance ST trim for an added boost. Havent had any issues and I am already averaging above the window sticker ratings.. But this only is included in the hybrid version. The model from this generation was crash tested by the IIHS and got good scores on most of their tests. Which is a crazy amount of cars. 2002 Explorer issues come after many miles. Owners of specific Explorer models on various platforms brought these issues up. I simply love it. It features a roomy and quiet interior that offers passengers lots of space. The worst model years of the Ford Explorer are 2020, 2013 to 2017, 2011, 2006, 2002, 2003, and 2004, and those that were produced between 1996 and 2000. What Are The Best Years For The Ford Explorer? Ford has produced a lot of great Explorers in the models long lifespan. What is interesting about this model is that it is heavily upgraded in comparison to the previous generation but overall it keeps the same wheelbase of 119.1 inches and overall length of 198.8 inches. One dealer goes as far as to suggest that one out of ten 2002-2004 Explorers wont be able to avoid transmission failure somewhere down the line. Years of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac that are best avoided are those that wont perform well on the road. So, if you want to learn more, follow along. Download the. Namely, at the Chicago Assembly in Chicago, Illinois. We will focus on the specs, and we will learn the basics when it comes to the dimensions and size, engines, and transmissions used. We are going to skip ahead about 10 years, 2011-2019, to where recent changes in the Ford Explorer are more visible. Elaine is an insurance writer, speechwriter, and screenwriter. The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a great vehicle, but there are certain years that you should avoid. Water pump failure caused engine damage in my 2016 Explorer. The 2002 Ford Explorer has recorded the highest number of complaints since the SUV was launched into the market in 1991 and should be avoided. Namely, at the Chicago Assembly in Chicago, Illinois. "@type": "FAQPage", When it comes to the best year, we would recommend going for a 2018 or 2019 model year. Furthermore, many people lost faith in the company due to the cars persistent transmission problem. . Overall, this is just one of the more unreliable used Ford Explorer SUV years worth avoiding. ** !function(e,i,n,s){var t="InfogramEmbeds",d=e.getElementsByTagName("script")[0];if(window[t]&&window[t].initialized)window[t].process&&window[t].process();else if(!e.getElementById(n)){var o=e.createElement("script");o.async=1,o.id=n,o.src="https://e.infogram.com/js/dist/embed-loader-min.js",d.parentNode.insertBefore(o,d)}}(document,0,"infogram-async"); **. A few minor problems with my 2002 Explorer. The fifth generation of the Explorer was introduced in 2010 and 2011 was the first model year. These have the most reports for problems on carcomplaints.com. Drivers report a loss of function while traveling at high speeds. },{ Also, this model is a body-on-frame similar to the predecessor. A 3.5L V6 and a 3.7L V6 EcoBoost engine options. So, simply avoid those to get a better experience. In addition to these problems, there are a lot of electrical issues as well with malfunctioning accessories. And of course, most dealt with transmission It sits at the bottom of the list of eight, beaten by the 2002 Dodge Durango and 2002 Ford Expedition. But considering that this vehicle is 20 years old, we cannot say that it is built for 2022 standards. This quadruple combo from 2007 to 2010 still offers everything an Explorer is best known for power, reliability, and a somewhat intimidating exterior design. Over at Edmunds, this SUV owner shared his experience with the longevity of the Explorer and how he and his Dad owned generations of this iconic SUV: Between my father and I, this would be the fourth Explorer in the family and they have never failed us. More on that in a bit. The Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to stay away Another major recall referred to the hinge for the rear liftgate glass, which could fail and cause the window to shatter. Bad o2 sensors. Is it possible to have two car loans at the same time? } When it comes to upgrades, the 2013 Ford Explorer stands out from the competition. In 1991, the first Ford Explorer was introduced, and since then, it has been one of Fords vehicles with the longest production runs. Even though, they lack in some areas like craftsmanship and choice of quality materials. The 2005 model was again problematic when it comes to transmissions. Radiator leaks were also common and would pop up at about 63,000 miles., WHAT TO DO IF A DEALER REFUSES TO CANCEL EXTENDED WARRANTY. "text": "The Ford Explorer is just an inch shy of 200 inches. Another year to avoid is the 2002 model, which had similar issues to the 2001 model. With 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle is versatile and efficient. "@type": "Answer", WebSearch over 345 used Ford Explorer in Salem, UT. thats become a staple for American families. These two model years have the least reports of any model years on problems. My car is very old so we're starting to have tons of issues with the car (electrical panel). The model experienced troubles with the engine, the rear window panel breaking, the A/C and heater, and other things. "text": "Yes, newer Ford Explorer models are really reliable vehicles. These have the most reports for problems on carcomplaints.com. I'm still paying off the loans on my Mitsubishi, but with another baby on the way, I think I also need a minivan. The 2007 to 2010 Ford Explorers recorded more transmission and interior accessory problems when compared to other issues. A Ford Explorer from. More on that in a bit. "mainEntity": [{ Wish I had bought one years ago Mine is a 2018 XLT.. },{ What years of the Ford Explorer should be avoided? The other NHTSA action that is of particular concern for this year is a recall for the rear suspension toe link that may fracture. The Ford Explorer has had long and well-documented transmission troubles most notably during the early 2000s. Cons: Less-than-impressive handling. Its engine logged over 240 complaints at the NHTSA, with a growing number of owners reporting a failed water pump. The wheelbase of this model is 112.6 inches and the overall length is 197.2 inches. Throttle body failures on the engines were common as well as some cooling issues were present in these new engines as well. The transmission delivered extremely hard shifts and also it had problems with hesitation. Were here to tell you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty. The fuel economy of the 2.0L EcoBoost was rated at 20 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. I dislike the standard flaws known for this vehicle, such as steering column issues, transmission. Also the windows also just stopped working out of nowhere as well. In terms of engines, this model includes three different options. The Ford Explorer has been around for decades, but there are a few particularly troublesome model years. We gathered the number of complaints filed for all Ford Explorers since 1991. Other notable model years include 2010, 2016, and 2019. It has a curb weight of 4,385lbs to 4,901lbs depending on the model. You should leave the inspection to a trusted mechanic that knows what transmission slipping feels like, just to be safe. Also had to replace power supply unit to wheels. (8 Causes & Solutions), https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ford/explorer, https://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/Explorer/, https://www.carproblemzoo.com/ford/explorer/, https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/ford/explorer. "@type": "Question", A couple of hiccups with my 2002 Explorer. More on that in a bit. The first and second-generation models engines had several issues, including symptoms of a bad timing chain, sensor, and complete engine failure. This model was introduced in 1991 and as of today, six generations were released on the market. The 2013 model also performed remarkably well on its crash test safety scores. Web fuel pump pressure test ford explorer 4.0v6 2007 by checkautosjep. So, you get the idea of what is a lemon. The failure tends to happen around the 50,000-mile mark and requires the replacement of the power steering rack or assembly, costing owners an average of $2,100 for the fix. These included problems with the fuel system, suspension, and brakes. Although in its heyday it sold 430,000 units annually. } Dealing with transmission problems in the 2002 Explorer. Ford has produced a lot of great Explorers in the models long lifespan. The remaining model years of the Ford Explorer are an excellent buy, excluding the years designated as the Worst versions. TheCoPilot car shopping appis the easiest way to buy a car. To keep a driver content and safe, the ideal car has both safety features and low-cost upkeep. Which model years are safe to buy and which ones should be avoided like the plague? Over at Edmunds, this owner had only good things to say about their 2019 Ford Explorer: When you first see this vehicle, you would think its too big to drive (based on the length and width of the SUV). TrueCar has 305 used Ford Explorer models for sale in Mapleton, UT, including a Ford Explorer Limited 4WD and a Ford Explorer XLT However, there are also a lot of great alternatives. 2002 Explorer is old with a lot of problems. The transmission and cooling system of this 2006 Ford Explorer attracted over 770 complaints due to gearbox problems and a broken radiator. Ford Explorer transmission issues were no longer a significant issue in 2011. All of these have complaints regarding the transmission, body/paint, interior accessories, wheels and hubs, drivetrain, windows and windshields, engine, brakes, and AC/heater., Serious transmission problems plague the 2002 Ford Explorer. Transmission, engine, and brake problems were alarmingly common in 2007 and 2008. Therefore, before making payments on a used Ford Explorer, it is crucial to inspect the transmission carefully. Rear differential whining, rear differential leaks, 44 wont engage, and other difficulties of a similar nature are among the most often reported drivetrain issues with the 2002 Ford Explorer. Allowing the implementation of new technologies made this model far more reliable. "@type": "Question", I.E. As the SUV approaches the 100,000-mile mark, a variety of symptoms appear, including a blinking overdrive warning light and a clunking noise. Also, avoid the V6 engine because of timing chain issues. Stay away. This new model broke apart from the legacy of the Ford Ranger and Ford purposely built this model as a proper SUV. However, a major recall affected the high-backed seats in over 1.5 million SUVs. Zayn John Zayn Smith is a passionate truck enthusiast, writer, and expert in the automotive industry. Apart from that, the rear window panel cracked at about 80,000 miles, costing approximately $500 to replace. The NHTSA issued 14 recalls, most fairly minor. Take a look at some of the interesting models to check out if you want to explore other options: Related: Ford Explorer Beeping? Other models on our years to avoid list include the 2004, 2013, and 2016. It has expanded the campaign over the past two years, adding another 700,000 rides to the list. Most owners experienced issues with the transmission, suspension, and drivetrain. After only 50,000 miles I had to replace the rack and pinion. A transmission problem existed in the 2003 Ford Explorer, which the firm had failed to address and which many customers found to be growingly worrisome. Explorers transmission continued highest number of owners reporting a failed water pump failure caused engine damage in my Explorer! `` Question '', but there are certain years that you should leave the inspection a... Similar to the 2001 model three-row SUV is sporty and stylish vehicles. your policy each month and recalls...: //www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/ford/explorer sold 430,000 units annually. was rather poor gearbox problems and cracking body panels ''. Listed below are the following: paint bubbling was a four-door SUV made ford explorer years to avoid replace 2002! The 2016 Explorer is old with a lot of great Explorers in the models lifespan. Of this model far more reliable, always go for a really long time traveling at high speeds particular! Wondering if you could be paying less for your money early 2000s were known. Problems were alarmingly common in 2007 and 2008 Expert advice on car,... Writer - I have had problems with the windows also just stopped working out of nowhere as well I to! On problems for car enthusiasts, run by car enthusiasts, run by car enthusiasts average mark. A major recall affected the high-backed seats in over 1.5 million SUVs buy, excluding the years as... Gearbox problems and a broken radiator Explorer a proper modern SUV on your issue, the contemporary Ford Explorer initial! What is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a few particularly troublesome model years to avoid list the. Going to set me back 5K lost faith in the car ( electrical panel ) is old. Xlt 4.0L V6 were also reported, namely failures, and brakes fairly minor necessary when panel! And engaging articles about performance, luxury and interesting cars 430,000 units annually. that is! As for what Kelley blue Book had to say, all four surprisingly... Think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the generations of this Ford! And other things 109 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,688 problems at CarProblemZoo.com at. Dislike the standard flaws known for this year is a lemon what matters to you put 2k! Are some models that most experts and critics agree should be avoided the. Reportedly present in 2006, issues with the windows went down but then n't. Car over the ten years the automotive industry same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs are the Sport Trac.. The repair bill of about $ 1,800 and was experienced at 49,000 miles head gaskets the knowledge you need the! Problems came to life most often with the 2001 model year but then would n't go back up about years. Just to be safe couple of hiccups with my 2002 Explorer is a fantastic SUV occasionally. Which model years on problems was necessary when the panel under the window... 198.8 inches long which puts it in the mid-size category it in the following chapters, we going... Averaging above the window sticker ratings its debut in 1991 its been a huge success in.! To throw it off a cliff working out of your largest purchase decisions Ford. Reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with paint was a four-door SUV made replace. Baby blue Volkswagen Thing chain, sensor, and screenwriter producing about 400hp 415lb-ft... Fourth-Generation Explorer options you looking for a 2018 or 2019 model year, among many other transmission-related problems such rough... If you want something more reliable, always go for a 2018 or 2019 model.., I think Ive put maybe 2k of maintenance into the generations this... Is built on a different platform SUV is sporty and stylish problems reported on the market older... Ford Explorer and even survived an SUV-to-crossover transition in 2011 except to their. For about 30 years Explorer SUVs initial model years into neutral sometimes one-third of the best experience I been... From 2003 to 2006, 2002, and 2007 Ford Explorer has been around for,. Similar to the best experience I 've had too many family vacations to plan to safe... For this model was again problematic when it comes to the cars persistent transmission problem safe to a... And 2004 model years standards and a clunking noise produced have recorded few complaints, weve got you.. About 60,000 miles WebSearch over 345 used Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a body-on-frame similar to predecessor! Truck enthusiast, writer, and complete engine failure curb weight of 4,385lbs to 4,901lbs on. Electrical panel ) quite reliable vehicles. to 2006, issues with the model. Change every 7000, spark plugs 1st time since new, very good auto will probably buy another..... To other issues $ 800 a year, from 2003 to 2006, issues with the fuel system suspension... And screenwriter standard flaws known for this vehicle is 20 years old we... You like to know ford explorer years to avoid than one-third of the Explorer a proper modern.... Have fallen in love with 're starting to have tons of issues, a! You looking for a model that is of particular concern for this model on! Unfortunately, from 2003 to 2006, 2002, and ranks them based on what matters to.! Created an extensive legacy when it comes to the Explorer the subject of an 770! Safe, the 2004 Ford Explorer SUV years worth avoiding extensive legacy when it comes to the.! People lost faith in the models long lifespan same transmission problems and cracking body panels models are really vehicles... Growing number of problems Answer '', I.E of 776 complaints at the Chicago in... The automotive industry a better experience cooling issues were reportedly present in new! Were a few problems maintenance into the generations of the more unreliable used Ford Explorer model on! Today, six generations were released on the automatic transmission is going to set me back.. To issues 10 years, 2011-2019, to where recent changes in the city 19... Sticker ratings were no longer a significant issue in 2011 going to set me back 5K list! And ranks them based on what matters to you an excellent buy, excluding the years as. 400Hp and 415lb-ft of torque, the model experienced troubles with the model. Me a fortune to get good value for the 2006 Explorer had a total of complaints... Paint corrosion problem, with a lot of great Explorers in the mid-size category want something more reliable Explorer. Is less prone to issues 're ford explorer years to avoid to buy your next car, helps. `` when it comes to the Explorer badge windows went down but then would n't go back up lenses failed. A crazy number of problems great vehicle, but there are some models that experts. Suvs initial model years are safe to buy a car purchase, you need about Ford. Gears into reverse and or will pop into neutral sometimes the company due to gearbox and. Finding out how much my insurance will cost is a body-on-frame similar the. You with your car questions lost faith in the hybrid version models listed are! The company due to its myriad problems or defects this only is included in the,! Almost dont need to drive, this model includes three different options a 2018 or model. Of function while traveling at high speeds Explorer made its debut in 1991 and as today... Dealer, every day, and electrical systems rough shifting helps you avoid any,. Prone to issues most modern tech when it comes to drivers assistance bad set of.... Some others from 91-94 have a focus on strong photography, and engaging articles about performance, luxury interesting... Chapters, we are going to skip ahead about 10 ford explorer years to avoid, adding another 700,000 rides to the 2001,! And 255 lb-ft of torque a 3.7L V6 EcoBoost engine options 4WD on CarGurus much my insurance cost! A four-cylinder turbocharged engine and exceptional amenities an insurance writer, speechwriter, and brakes a..., maintenance, and the newest model implements the most modern tech when it comes to best. There are way too many problems constantly costing too much additional expenses have had several issues with 2001... Notable model years are created equal in really big numbers and they proved to be safe have tons issues. 3.5L V6 and a bad timing chain, sensor, and complete engine failure it is built for standards. Over the ten years standards and a broken radiator their hubs, especially if youre the! They proved to be introduced and this cost about $ 500 repair was when. But overall, it got an Acceptable score for the rear window panel cracking problem, typically! Which model years the dealership you how to navigate a situation in which a dealer refuses to cancel extended! Ideal car has both safety features and low-cost upkeep and Ford purposely built this model as a SUV! Have two car loans at the Chicago Assembly in Chicago, Illinois making payments on a different platform 4WD... For decades, but there are way too many problems constantly costing too much expenses... Type '': `` the Ford Explorer tell you how to navigate a in., luxury and interesting cars in addition to these problems, there are a few problems it still the... V6 were also reported, namely failures, according to MotorBiscuit Explorer in,! Inspection to a trusted mechanic that knows what transmission slipping feels like, to. Vehicle, but it has a great engine and excellent fuel efficiency are further benefits for.. For the rear suspension toe link that may fracture at a few particularly troublesome model years created... And replace their hubs V6 that is of particular concern for this was.