Overview & Reviews

The Ford Explorer is widely regarded as the catalyst that started America's love affair with the SUV back in the early 1990s. Certainly there were SUVs before the Explorer, but they were mostly utilitarian in nature. The Explorer was the first go-to SUV for the Everyman. Throughout its life, the Ford Explorer has delivered versatility, a reasonable amount of comfort, affordability and, perhaps most importantly, more style than a station wagon or minivan. New or used, the justifiably popular Explorer should be part of any serious SUV search.

Current Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a large three-row SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers. There are four trim levels: base, XLT, Limited and Sport.

Though even the base version comes well-equipped, moving up the list provides luxuries such as leather seating, the Sync voice command system, a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry and upgraded audio systems. In addition to its potent engine, the Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension as well as unique interior/exterior trim details. Optional highlights (depending on trim level) include a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and even an automatic parallel-parking system. Stability control and a multitude of airbags are standard, with blind spot and collision warning systems available on upper trims.

A 3.5-liter 290-horsepower V6 is standard on all but the Sport trim, which comes with a turbocharged version good for 365 hp. Optional on all but the Sport is a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. All engines are hooked up to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but the Sport, which has all-wheel drive standard. The latter is optional for all other Explorers equipped with the 290-hp V6.

In reviews, we've found the Ford Explorer to be one of the best choices for a family-oriented SUV. It drives well, gets good fuel economy for its class and still retains the versatility that made people like SUVs in the first place. Fitted with most of its optional high-tech features, the Explorer is also one of the most advanced SUVs available, luxury brand or not. The Explorer's most notable downside is that it doesn't provide as much third-row and cargo space as some rival large crossover SUVs, and its MyFord Touch electronics interface can be finicky to use.

Used Ford Explorer Models
The current-generation Explorer bowed for 2011. Among the big changes was a switch from body-on-frame to unibody architecture for more carlike driving dynamics and improved space efficiency. Changes have been minimal since; the turbocharged four-cylinder engine wasn't offered until 2012, while the powerful Sport trim didn't debut until the following year.

The third-generation Explorer ran from 2002-'10. A longer wheelbase and an independent rear suspension allowed room for a fairly accommodating third-row seat while also improving ride and handling performance. A 210-hp V6 was joined by a new 4.6-liter 239-hp V8, and both were matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Initial trim levels included the XLS, XLT and more upscale Limited and Eddie Bauer.

For 2003, a few new trim levels debuted, including XLS Sport and the NBX (no boundaries experience -- we're not making that up). The latter came with all-terrain tires, special trim and a Yakima roof rack. An off-road package became available as well, complete with a beefed-up suspension and skid plates. The following year, equipment levels were shuffled, stability control was made available on most trims (previously it could only be had on V8 models) and Limited and Eddie Bauer models got a quad bucket seating option. The stability control system was upgraded with roll stability control for 2005.

For 2006, a substantial update took place that included revised styling inside and out, an improved frame, enhanced safety systems and a more powerful V8. The latter made 292 hp (up from the previous 239 hp) though the 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 continued unchanged. The V8 came paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. Safety equipment was upgraded, too, as front-seat side airbags and stability control were made standard on all Explorers. More recent Explorers benefited from the arrival of the voice-activated Sync music/phone interface (2008) and a revised navigation system (2009).

In general we liked this Explorer and found value in the excellent ride and handling characteristics, comfortable and roomy cabin and, on V8 models, strong power and high towing capacity. Though later outclassed by newer crossover SUVs in terms of comfort and design, this Explorer is a solid pick, particularly if you plan to use a V8 model for towing.

Model years 1995-2001 represent the second generation Explorer. Though neither as refined nor as powerful as the generation that followed, this group is still a respectable choice for an SUV. For most of this generation's run, three engines were available: a standard 160-hp V6, an optional 210-hp V6 ('97 and later) and a 210-hp 5.0-liter V8. The familiar XL, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited were the available trims, and there was a two-door Explorer known as the Sport. Editorial reviews of the time noted that the Explorer had a comfortable cabin and decent utility but fared poorly in terms of road handling and off-road ability.

The original Ford Explorer debuted in 1990 as a 1991 model, and it replaced the Bronco II in Ford's lineup. It achieved instant success in a market that it ultimately defined, if not created. Based on the Ford Ranger pickup, the original Explorer had the winning combination of size, style and utility that people wanted in an SUV. It came as the volume-selling four-door or a less popular two-door. Initially, just XLS and XLT trim levels were available. In 1992, an Eddie Bauer edition joined the lineup, and a Limited model followed shortly thereafter. For power, these Explorers had a 155-hp V6. Output went up slightly to 160 hp in 1993; this was also the year Ford made antilock brakes standard equipment.

User Reviews:

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  transmission problems--cracked REAR panel (2 cracks) - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By marie517 - June 6 - 6:57 am

  I have replaced TWO transmissions in the past 2 years--there are 2 cracks on the rear panel door--I have seen soo many other vehicles(Ford Explorers) with the same cracks!! WHAT IS FORD DOING ABOUT THIS..I CALLED AND COMPLAINED TO FORD AND THEY SAID THEY HAVE NO RECALLS OR ISSUES ON THIS.[violative content deleted]

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  2006 traded for a 2004 Tahoe thats better - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By chevylover229 - April 2 - 2:19 pm

  we have 7 kids (4 at the time we bought it in(2006) it looked OK, were we ever wrong. The only good thing about it was it broke down under warranty(16,320 miles) it was used with 15,000 miles on it we barley owned it. every thing under the hood needed to be fixed, Everything. and ford wouldnt fix it. and it was under warranty.

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  2000 ford explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By 10phantom1 - November 15 - 2:00 am

  We bought a 2000 Ford Explorer from a friend. All the doors dont work except the driver. We had to change oxygen sensors 3 times. The driver seat broke. The trunk broke. This car awful

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  Piece-O-Junk - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By James - March 3 - 10:00 am

  Here it comes!!! Window sticks, tail light plug breakes, handle on driver seat breakes off, engine skips (new plugs/wires= no change) TRANNY Stinks!, hard shifting into rev & 2-3. (Changed fluid w/ synth & additive= Helped for 2 months but back to same!, Drivers rear wheel bearing went out 64K mi, ($489), Squeaks in front suspention all the time, Radio cuts itself up (I do not have steering wheel cntls), Cds will not eject=New radio from ford=Warranty=Same problems, Dampers broken under dash that work airflow=plastic pieces broken=fix w/drill & metal nut bolt, overhead cnsol fell off=again plastic mount broke=Epoxy repair. Tire sens bad

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  didnt even get 70,000 miles - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Ed C. - January 26 - 9:16 am

  Ford puts out another horrible product. This is my secnd ford explorer, my mistake, first one 1998 engine failed 70,000. Culdnt afford repair so took advantage of a special offer and purchased a brand new 2002 one. Well after paying it off and enjoying only one car payment in this economy, after only 67,551 miles this engine died. I will never purchase Ford product again. Reliability terrible Ford service terrible, ford customer service center.. terrible.

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  Heap Of Junk - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Chilly - January 8 - 9:17 am

  This Model Ford is a piece of Junk. Every issue that everyone has with this car we have had. Bought it used, we have had to replace the radiator twice now. The lurching problem with the transmission fixed twice(36k) and now the breaks at low speed breaking make an awful noise, oh and thats right after ford installed new brakes. All service done at a local ford dealership and they seem clueless as how to fix there own car! We were honda faithfuls but thought we would try a FORD (buy American... right). Stand in line call me an idiot later. Car now has 76k another radiator to buy. I think Ill take this hunk out back and put it out of its misery! STEER CLEAR OF THIS JUNK!

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  Ford Explorer - poor design and quality - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By TKenn - December 7 - 12:07 pm

  1. Roll-over alarm goes off at 20 mph on straight road. Dealership said it was a "short" in the system. 2. Both Vanity Mirror covers broke off allowing the light to stay on and drain battery. Dealership replaced with visors having cuts in the fabric. 3. Tail light assembly missing both attaching screws. 4. Eyelash (decorative trim at wheel area) pulling away from body. 5. Oil changed - but the oil indicator was not reset. Found out the oil indicator only tracks mileage and time - not actual oil life. Second Explorer - same visor problem. Paint failure. Technicians failed to reset oil indicator.

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  HATE IT!!!!!!! - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Andy - November 22 - 11:11 pm

  I bought this suv with 20,000 miles on it and it drove good, until the rear window wiper broke, passenger handle droke. Also the radio button is broken and cant turn it off. The windows shake when you roll them down, and it makes a weird sound when you go over rocks and bumps. The lock in the back of the suv broke and now makes a load sound when you lock the doors.

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  Useless gas hog - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Steven - October 12 - 4:02 am

  Purchased brand new 2017 Ford Explorer XLT 2.3 ecoboost. These vehicles run expensive and have no idea why. Car runs nice and quiet but would I recommend it? Only if I didnt feel pity for you. The 280hp turbo engine is underpowered always need to step on the throttle to go up steep hills and the fuel consumption isnt geat either, averaging 18.7mpg on road trips. Thats pretty pathetic for a four banger. It does however have an intelligent 4WD system but whats the point if the bumper clearance is only like 2 inches? This car was engineered by a bunch of morons. Dont come with roof racks. Also when a phone is plugged in charger phone screen is displaying not letting my change radio stations or anything at all. Resale value on these isnt great either do expect a 20k price drop after 3 years or so. Dont be fooled with fords ecoboost system its another expensive system when it breaks down making good business for ford. There are better rivals out there. Youll regret like me if you dont look else where

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  Do not buy Ford Explorer not worth the money - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Hueber - October 10 - 1:04 am

  We’ve had older Honda’s over the years with no issues with them besides normal ware and tare when things “should” go wrong and we paid way less for these cars. So once we decide to give Ford a try and we spend a $30K on a car and get a newer car, all within a year of having a new $30,000 Ford Explorer with 20,000 miles on it we’ve a had a ton of problems with it since day 1. It’s pitiful a $30K car is made so cheap and is basically a [non-permissible content removed]. The first two weeks we had it the drive belt snapped in half while we were driving to Dayton. Within the next month both motors on windows broke and needed both motors replaced. Then we take it in to get brakes checked and they tell us all 4 rotors were rusted and had pits in them at like 28,000 miles, wow rust and pits in rotors already when the car is pretty much brand new. We’ve had the car looked at again prior to 36K warranty expiration for belts because it sounds so bad and loud and they supposedly say everything is ok but you watch one of these belts are going to break again. The leather seats in front are so horrible looking and look worn and wrinkled already and the heated seats barely work but it’s past the warranty and they wouldn’t do anything about it when we took it to Ford so we left as is. Then 2-3 weeks ago my passenger side door would not shut and a piece of the chrome handle fell off around the lock and we finally got the door to shut, went to open door the next day and the handle completely came off and lock fell off. I am surprised the whole door has not fell off the cheap ass thing. Really??? a 2 year old car where the handle completely falls off???? And now we are getting a $380 bill to replace all this shit in the door when Ford did not obviously put it together correctly in the first place. And it’s funny almost every ford has recall on their doors except of course the Explorer. This is so freakin ridiculous. Anyone know what we can do about the door issue with all the other recalls going on with all of their other cars??? Should we call Ford Corporate??? Once we fix the door, looks like we will be trading it in for a Honda Pilot and WILL NEVER BUY FORD AGAIN.