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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  Car has issues and ford has too - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By bpk - June 25 - 10:34 pm

  I bought a 2013 for explorer LTD. was very happy to buy my first new car. But, when I drove through wet weather, all the dirt and mud is getting inside lower portion my all doors. I guess the gaskets are missing or not properly aligned. I went to the dealer ship and was surprised to hear that "This is a common problem and that is how the ford has designed. You have to live with this." Who would like to see dirty doors every day when they open their new car. Atleast I am one of those. I called the Ford customer relations and all they had to say is they honor they dealers judgement. Wow...... They 1 of my tires blew and dealer didnt agree to honor the warranty & ford said the same as before.

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  Sell it when you hit 120k - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By saben - June 20 - 7:52 am

  Purchased the car in 2005 with 30k on it. The truck operated fine until I hit 125,000 miles. at 125, the transmission went out and I had to put a new one in. at 135k, the timing belt went out. I guess the way they designed the belts, they have to pull the engine out of the truck to replace them, so were talking approx 3,000 to replace the belt. The tow truck guy and the mecanic both said that whoever designed these was an idiot. lovely.

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  DO NOT BUY or LEASE THIS CAR!!!! - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By modernart1 - May 25 - 8:03 am

  In May of 2011 I leased a Brand New 2011 Ford Explorer. In July of 2011 I began to have problems with the tire pressure monitor fault sensor. It was going off ever 10 minutes or so every time we drove on a highway. I brought the car into a certified ford dealer to get fixed and 3 days after they fixed it the sensor kept going off again. I had to bring the car in in August and November for the same issue. In March of 2012 my car OVERHEATED!!They had to replace the engine coolant fan.. Yesterday my ford touch screen that controls heat, ac and radio went blank...I have called Ford a few times and they say it does not have enough problems with it to replace the vechile..They are also VERY RUDE!!

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  Never again - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By vr2usone - April 2 - 3:53 pm

  This is my first Ford and I will never again purchase another. My problems are small but trying to find parts is a pain and theres not an easy fix. The visors, the seat, the crack in the back are all common complaints for this make and model and Ford refuses to acknowledge these defects or offer an expensive fix. Each part I need starts out at $100 and goes up. If I can ever find some cheap replacement parts Im going to fix them and trade this vehicle in for a Chevy.

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  a real disappointment - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By stillsearchun - February 28 - 3:43 pm

  Ive had my 2012 Explorer for 15000 miles. I wish I didnt. The sync, even upgrade, freezes. It happened on a 1300 mile trip and I was without Nav, radio, etc. for 16 hours of driving over two days. Not the first time. It also has very poor voice recognition, takes 15 to 20 minutes to connect to my phone. The touch controls are very distracting and dangerous, and balky. Also, set the dash display the way you like for a long trip, stop for gas, and when you restart, EVERYTHING has defaulted to factory settings. It seems intentionally designed to frustrate and endanger the driver. Also, the side view mirrors are too small. There is no way to adjust them to eliminate a massive blindspo

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  Fix Or Repair Daily - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By kxteem - January 31 - 6:00 pm

  We purchased our new 2011 Ford Explorer in March of 2011 because the looks sold my Husband and I. From that moment until November 2011 when we finally got rid of it were those most aggravating months dealing with Ford, Ford Reps and several Ford dealers. The My Ford Touch is a driving disaster and constantly takes yours eyes off the road because it does not work. Our screen froze so many times, and we were left without a/c or heat or radio. This system is the main brain of this vehicle. The voice commands would not operate either. We have been to the dealer for an upgrade, and they keep saying that "This will fix the problem". Also problem with Gas vent hose. Do not buy this vehicle!!

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  MY Ford Touch *&)(*&(*^(*&%(*&^ - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By neverfordagain - January 25 - 5:58 pm

  Ford Explorer 2011 fully loaded, including the My Ford Touch piece of crap. I have read the reviews with comments of Ford is working on it & its complicated & they are trying to make it more intuitive & easier to use. BS. It doesnt work. IT locks up. When its 10pm &-10 below out & youre leaving work & it locks up & you have NO HEATED SEATS, NOTHING WORKS WHEN IT LOCKS! & there is no override of any sort. Ill be going back to GMC thanks! Whatever happened to the lemon law & where the hell are all of the media reports on this! I had this vehicle since July & nothing from FORD!

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  1996 1 owner Ford Explorer 4wd 4 dr - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By drbobe - November 20 - 4:58 pm

  When I purchased the 96 Explorer it was my 2nd one. I had a 91 2dr 4wd and sold it to my Dad. My 96 was fine till 55,000 miles when the odometer broke. It was already out of warranty and cost $1000 to fix due to it being one of a cluster . I had to repair the a/c twice costing $1000 each time. I replaced the radiator at $800. Ive replaced the transfer case at $3500 and the Transmission at $2000. This vehicle is only used to go to and from work and school 5-10 miles away. Recently, my daughter was driving it on I-95 coing home from college and the engine failed costing me $400 to tow it home 71 miles. It appears it is only worth $2000 when running.

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  Unbelievable - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By stobias - October 25 - 6:50 pm

  6 radiators Ladies and Gents. You read that correctly - 6 radiators. Averaging about 1 radiator for every 20K miles. I brought a 2006 Explorer for my 16 year old son in 2008 - only had 26K miles on it. We have replaced the radiator 6 times since purchase at $700 a pop. This vehicle is so unreliable that it now sits in my driveway, I cant trust it to be a reliable vehicle for my son, who is now 2 hours away at college. Huge mistake on my part for buying it, huge mistake on Fords part for not recalling it. BTW, tranny jerks when you shift into reverse.

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  Buyer Beware, many problems - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By layhe - October 8 - 5:45 pm

  We picked up our 2011 Ford Explorer Limited about 3 months ago. I have never owned a vehicle with this many problems. It is in the dealer service department more often then it is at home. It is in my opinion a nice looking vehicle but that is the only thing it has going for it. We have had issues with the sync system, most of the features will quit working at some time. The radio will come on and off, the rain sensing wipers will turn on and off for no reason. The cruise control speeds up and slows down. The windshield has been replaced and the side mouldings twice now because of a whistling noise and the problem persists. The front axle seals have been replaced because they leaked.