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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  No More Fords - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Jim - April 12 - 2:38 pm

  Here is the issue..bought new 2006 Ford Explorer thought Id buy American big big mistake numerous mechanical problems latest is the transmission. (Numerous problems with Radiator has leak-could be another $1,000.) Dealer advises could be low of $1,700- $3,000. to repair/replace. Many Internet sites from buyers suggest this is a manufacturing defect some suggest the updated operating software could have helped both for the trans and the radiator. SUV has only 29,000 miles on it check the internet 100s of problems with the transmission. Ford consumer services really doesnt care. I will never buy a Ford product again. I am shopping foreign SUVs now.

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  Do not buy a 2003 Ford exploder - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Bigjimmy - April 12 - 12:28 pm

  Since I purchased this car used for $11K Ive spent another $12k in repairs the transmission needed to be rebuilt the engine a moth later both rear bearings went out causing the knuckles to get damaged Ive replaced the A/C compressor THREE TIMES in 3 years the fuel pump went out the wiring is bad the stereo has CDs in its changer that will never come out again the check engine light goes on every two weeks or so the tailgate has a crack where the (Fix Or Repair Daily) emblem is and it gets lousy mileage costing me about $100.00 a week in gas alone just to drive to work. I HATE this car but thanks to all the money Ive spent fixing it, I cant afford to buy something else.

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  Junk that looks good - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Richard Potter - March 31 - 9:04 pm

  Two weeks after we bought the Explorer the transmission went out. The transmission man who replaced it said it was the worst transmission Ford ever made. Five months later the trans mission went out again and was replaced under warranty. The transmission just went out again. Im going to haul it to the Junk yard. The door locks dont work, the seat is broken, the AC doesnt work, cruise control quit and it is running bad now. It isnt worth the trouble to fix it. I always took care of it and never ran it hard so it shouldnt have had these problems.

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  What a RIP OFF! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Rachael - March 25 - 2:16 pm

  I have had problems for the past 2 years w/ this vehicle. I have replaced 3 wheel bearings w/ in the past year and now they are loose again. I have the infamous rear panel crack, replaced fuel pump, replaced intake manifold, replaced fuel line, had starter problems, rear passenger door does not lock, door ajar light will not stop (WD40 is a temporary fix). I am afraid to drive it because the check engine light is always on. This truck is high maintenance. Ford Motor company does nothing to help. Basically every month I make a payment I feel like I am being robbed. CHECK OUT ALL REVIEWS BEFORE BUYING THIS SUV.

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  used better - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By rey - March 1 - 4:54 pm

  By now some of the interior plasic parts are giving out like sun visors or driver seat parts, important stuff. Drive train noises like either bearings or rear end oil. After all it does have 165,000 miles and these things are expected, however ive had Nissan and Toyota whan I was thinner and small vehicles dont work but they lasted forever, its just good for BASIC transportation. Rough ride and cheap.

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  Heap of JUNK!! - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Fee - February 23 - 10:08 pm

  At this current time my Ford 2006 Explorer XLS is at the service department at the purchase dealership. This time it was returned for the recall on and having too heavily accelerate when in reverse and especially in drive. They think it maybe an engine or transmission problem at (108000 miles). The joke is the transmission is sealed and must be returned to the service department for servicing and of course money. Also, the radiator has been replaced twice. I am very afraid to maintain this vehicle due to the current and previous mechanical problems. This vehicle is American Made but it’s a heap of joke and I wonder was it assembled on Monday or Friday.

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  Transmission Fiasco - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By idahojoe - February 23 - 3:00 pm

  Bought new off the lot and the car would shake violently over 60mph. Ford finally replaced the complete rear drive train due to defects. Guess what, started shaking again about a month later. They replaced it again. Now at 80,000 the transmission that was "replaced" is toast and the radiator cracked.

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  Dealership Busted My Radiator - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Fix or repair daily - February 5 - 1:04 pm

  I have had a bad experience so far with the vehicle. Radiator problems started 10000 miles after owning! Major complaint is that I took it into the dealership (Hoffman Ford, Harrisburg PA) without leaks from the radiator, then they ran there pressure test, and all of sudden the leak appears out of no where gushing out the bottom. Now I looked over the radiator several times over a few weeks and didnt see a leak, in fact they didnt either when I had to them a few months ago, it was a hose at that time. But the smell persisted so I took it back. Bottom line, they performed another pressure test and now its costing me $1000 to have it fixed. What an insult!

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  Transmission Problems - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Matt - January 26 - 10:19 pm

  I bought this car with 40,000 miles on it and with service records. 6 months later the Transmission was shot and I spent $2,300 having that rebuilt. 18 months after that the Transmission is starting to slip and the service engine light is on. All I want to do is trade in this hunk of junk for something that isnt going to make me worried that I am going to have to drop $2,000 every year or so on repairs.

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  Piece of Car - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By sdexplorer - January 16 - 6:33 pm

  First family SVU. Thought of buying XTerra but decided to stick with american built.