The 2014 Ford Explorer engine lineup contains two V6 options and a turbocharged inline-four option. Although there are no active recalls with any of the engines, the Duratec non-turbo 3.5-liter V6 has a costly water pump issue.
Key Points
- Across its four trim levels, the 2014 Ford Explorer has three engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter standard V6, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo Ecoboost V6.
- The 2.0-liter inline-four Ecoboost engine only comes in a front-wheel-drive layout. It offers up to 28 mpg highway and makes for a great family road trip or around-town vehicle.
- The standard Duratec 3.5-liter V6 suffers water pump failure, costing thousands to repair. Unfortunately, this engine is found in most 2014 model year Explorers.
- Ford’s Explorer Sport trim is the only way to get the 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 engine, the most powerful of the entire lineup.
- In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of Ford vehicles that use the 3.5-liter V6 engine, including the Explorer. The judge dismissed the case; however, there is a chance it will be re-filed.
Mighty Ecoboost 2.0-liter Puts out Impressive Power for its Size and Tops the Lineup in Fuel Economy with Up to 28 mpg Highway
Available on Base and XLT trim Explorers only, the 2.0-liter Ecoboost inline-four engine makes an impressive 240 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque. The Explorer is not a light vehicle by any standard, however, the torquey punch of the 2.0L engine is plenty to get up to speed and keep up with traffic.
Additionally, the 2.0L offers the best fuel economy of the entire 2014 Explorer lineup. With EPA ratings of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, it dramatically reduces time and money spent at the pump with many comparably-sized SUVs. However, the 2.0L engine comes at the cost of only being available with a front-wheel-drive drivetrain.
According to Tuning Pro, the 2.0L is a reliable engine with no major mechanical failures. They state that some may develop cracks in the exhaust manifold or suffer from a boost solenoid failure at higher mileage. Additionally, they are prone to carbon buildup on valves due to being direct-injected. However, these are all relatively minor issues that likely won’t net massive maintenance bills.
Duratec Non-turbo 3.5L V6 Engine Steps up the Power, and, Unfortunately, Steps up the Problems with Water Pump Failure, Expensive Repairs
The next step in the engine lineup for the 2014 Ford Explorer is the Duratec naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) 3.5-liter V6. It gives the horsepower figure a healthy bump to 290, though the torque dips compared to the 2.0L with a rating of 255 lb.-ft.
As one might expect, it also drops the fuel economy ratings. Explorers equipped with the Duratec 3.5L receive EPA ratings of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for all-wheel-drive models. Front-wheel-drive examples maintain the city rating but increase to 24 mpg highway. They also offer Flex Fuel capability with E85 ratings reaching up to 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.
While a glance at the NHTSA page for the 2014 Explorer nets no engine-related recalls, it shows a concerning number of owner complaints pertinent to the engine. Most of these complaints are about the Duratec 3.5L V6 and its failure-prone water pump. Unfortunately, the Duratec 3.5L uses an internal water pump. So, when it fails, it mixes coolant with the engine oil. This may result in complete engine failure. Some owners report a replacement engine with install costs over $7,000.
In 2019 a class-action lawsuit was filed against Ford for the faulty water pump design. However, according to Ford Authority, the case was dropped with prejudice barring a refile in 2020. They state that the judge may release the prejudice and allow the lawsuit to be filed again once all parties involved have presented their arguments. As of now, any repairs resulting from this issue will be out-of-pocket expenses for vehicle owners.
3.5-liter Ecoboost Twin-turbo V6 Offers Exciting Acceleration and a Massive Jump in Power. However, it’s Only Available on Sport Trim Models and Sacrifices Fuel Economy
The final engine option for the 2014 Ford Explorer lineup is the almighty Ecoboost 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engine. It makes a whopping 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, eclipsing the other two engine options in power and performance. Explorers with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost will accelerate from 0-60 in just 6.5 seconds, and if you need to tow a trailer you have a max hauling capacity of 5,000 pounds.
However, naturally, it comes at the cost of fuel economy. The Sport manages only 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, and it is only offered in all-wheel-drive.
Though it is rare, Tuning Pro reports that the 3.5L Ecoboost V6 may run into timing chain issues that need immediate attention to prevent engine failure. Other minor reported issues include carbon build-up and spark plug/coil pack issues.
Shoppers Looking for the Best Value in the 2014 Explorer Lineup Should Turn to the 2.0L Ecoboost
Though it is a bit unfortunate that it is unavailable with an all-wheel-drive system, the 2.0L Ecoboost engine offering blends outstanding fuel economy with all the practicalities of the Explorer. Furthermore, it’s far more dependable than the Duratec 3.5L V6, providing peace of mind while saving shoppers money. Though it isn’t the best for extreme weather or off-road conditions, front-wheel-drive models will suffice for most daily SUV users.
Photos: Ford
