Ford Explorer Reliability: How Long Will It Last?

Feb 23, 2022

Since 1991, the Ford Explorer has remained renowned as a durable SUV, with many vehicles lasting up to 200,000 miles. However, design flaws in the third and fifth-generation may limit your ride to just 80,000 miles. Especially if it has a bad transmission or rear suspension flaw.

2018 Ford Explorer-Ford

Key Points

The Ford Explorer can reach 200,000 miles when properly maintained. However, serious problems in two different generations lower their average longevity to 100,000 miles or fewer.
Performing all suggested maintenance including the recommended 18-point inspection can help identify problems before they become serious.
Some major issues that sideline a Ford Explorer before its time include failing suspensions on the fifth generation and a bad transmission on the third.
Avoid problem years and stick to a rigorous preventative maintenance schedule to extend the functional life of your Ford Explorer.

2019 Ford Explorer Limited Luxury Edition - Photo by Ford

While Some Ford Explorers Make it Well Past the 200,000-mile Point, Serious Problems in Two Generations Drive Down the Average Lifespan

Ford has built a solid reputation for its trucks and SUVs over the years. But, the Ford Explorer suffers from some serious reliability issues for model years 2002 to 2006, and 2012 to 2016. For this reason, the expected mileage range for the Ford Explorer runs from a low 80,000 up to a reasonable 200,000 miles.

However, when you pay careful attention to its maintenance and repair schedule, you can enjoy your SUV for many more miles as indicated by a fleet of long-term owners chatting over at Car Gurus.

In 2021, one Explorer owner claimed, “I have a ’98 Ford Explorer 4.0 V6 (Eddie Bauer edition) with 178,000 miles to date.”

Another owner said, “My Explorer has over 310k miles on the original engine and transmission; just replaced timing chain guides. Maintenance is key.”

Those shining examples of longevity do not always prove true. At J.D. Power, the SUV maintains only average reliability over the years 2010 to present, which indicates for every hyper-miler, there is another vehicle that struggles to make it past that 80,000 mark.

2015 Ford Explorer Sport - Photo by Ford

Explorer’s Average Cost of Annual Maintenance is Higher than Comparable Models But Crucial to Keeping the SUV On the Road

Both mechanics and drivers agree that to get your Ford Explorer to last longer, following the suggested maintenance schedule is vital.

It does cost more to care for a Ford Explorer when compared to other SUVs in its segment, averaging around $732 a year for oil changes and repairs as reported by Repair Pal. But getting the oil and filter done every 7,500 miles is necessary if you want to reach the legendary 300,000-mile mark.

A thorough 18-point inspection is also recommended with each visit to the garage. Ford suggests that you check everything from the brakes to the wheels to detect any early signs of wear and tear.

The owner’s manual also indicates that changing spark plugs, coolant, and drive belts should be done at the 100,000-mile mark. Skipping a repair to save money will only lead to a system failure that will be much more expensive to fix, especially when it comes to the engine and transmission.

2002 Ford Explorer-Ford

Fifth-generation Ford Explorer’s Longevity may be Affected by Common Problems with Failing Suspensions and Faulty Transmissions

When you purchase a new car these days, it’s a good bet that it’s designed to sail past 100,000 miles. The Ford Explorer built during the problematic fifth generation of 2011 to 2016 may not always meet those expectations.

One major problem these model years face is corrosion in the rear suspension toe link that can lead to a fracture. The related recall was issued in several stages through 2021 and applies to nearly a million vehicles.

Areas that use salt on roads have seen more failures on the SUV, because the salt kick-starts the corrosion process. The ball joint corrodes, swells, and leads to the fractured toe link. It does make you wonder if a rusted part is replaced, will it simply rot out again under the same conditions?

The 2012 to 2017 Ford Explorer models also have reported problems with cracked engine blocks, leaking coolant, and an open investigation into foul odors in the cabin emanating from the engine that may or may not be associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you’re looking at an older Ford Explorer, a problematic transmission on 2002-2006 model years led to many of those vehicles experiencing an early death. Symptoms start with hard shifts or slipping gears and end with a replacement transmission costing around $2,000.

However, if you want to keep it, replacing the transmission on a 15-year-old vehicle is a reasonable investment.

Care for Your Ford Explorer, and it can Pay You Back with a Long Life up to 200,000 Miles

While some years of the Ford Explorer struggle to stand up to the sterling Ford reputation, the popular sport utility vehicle is still ranked by J.D. Power as one of the 10 best midsize SUVs.

When you regularly bring in the SUV for service, the Explorer can make it up to 200,000 miles. But, keep in mind that any vehicle running past 100,000 miles may need extensive work done on major systems. But it should not deter you from considering a Ford Explorer.

Photos: Ford

Owner Reviews

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Coleman R. on December 12, 2023

2008 4.0 SOHC Eddie Bauer with 5r55 Trans

I have owned this vehicle a little over a year. I love the look and feel of this truck. It still rides so smoothly despite its age. The cargo space/3rd row seating has come in handy. I can recommend the 4.0 SOHC v6 as a good engine overall. However, the vehicle has had serious reliability issues that, if I were not a very handy person, would have led me to part ways with it - My wife still wishes I would! Specifically, during the 165,000 - 175,000 mileage span, the vehicle began to seriously deteriorate. Over this mileage span, I have replaced the oil pump, timing chain and guides, the radiator, thermostat housing, various coolant lines, the transmission pump, torque converter, and O/D servo (Shout out to AJ1E Solutions!). With meticulous care and timely maintenance, I have kept it on the road. However, if you do not enjoy tinkering on your car, I would say to pass on this generation (2006-2010) of explorer and especially this series of transmission.

Bill H. on April 2, 2022

Cracked 300,000 last month

Got a 1999 Ford explorer from my Dad 7 yrs.ago. It had 197,000 hard shuttle service miles on dirt roads mainly. Since then I've put 103,000 miles on it. Dad taught me something, the more you keep changing the oil, the more wear and tare it puts on the motor. Dad changed it 3 times in 197,000 and I've changed it once in 103,000. Replaced the belts once and that is it. Oh and a thermostat and sparkplugs once. It still runs like a champ. Had a 1976 Ford Futura put little over 700,000 in 9 yrs., changed the oil 3 times. The floor boards rusted completely out before retiring it. Motor still ran good. Put it in a buddy's car. Oil changes are so over rated. It just puts more money in their pockets. I know what your thinking, I'm full of it. Nope, these are true stories.

Rick B on March 29, 2022

Surprising for a 20 y.o. Car

First off, know we have a 2nd Gen. 98 Eddie Bauer with the 4.0 SOHC and selectable 4WD on the dash. 246k miles on the odometer. I think we ended up having to replace the transmission shortly after getting it because I screwed up by switching into 4WD Low but not shifting into neutral first. Other then that, it's had no major issues I wouldn't expect out of such an old vehicle. It's in great shape for its age and use. The only other downside is the thirsty engine, but it becomes quite a bit more forgivable when it doesn't need to be driven to the shop. Eventually we'll get something else, but most likely because we're annoyed by all the little things that have failed because it's an old vehicle. Until then, it keeps trucking along!

John on January 21, 2024

Perfect...after 100k miles

We purchased a 2002 Explorer new. It was a V8 4x4. We purchased the extended warranty and it got plenty of use. The transmission failed twice within the extended warranty period of 5 years. Ford uses a cheapy replacement just intended to get off warranty. At about 80k we had the transmission rebuilt by a reputable shop, end of all problems. We passed the truck on to our son, that was 100k miles ago and it has been totally problem free since then. It was always among the best steering and driving cars I've ever owned, and that includes a MB E350. The Explorer is easy to drive long distances, has great packaging, and is an easy size. So in the end it turned ou to be a terrific vehicle.

Matt on July 20, 2022

2005Ford Explorer V8

Despite the transmission failures at 86k and 178k miles, the car has been absolutely flawless. At 210,000 miles, the engine has never missed a beat and the car still runs/drives fantastic. I’ve done regular maintenance, but 95% of the components on the car are still original (minus the suspension which I just did for the first time). The car is still a pleasure to drive and I generally take it on my long road trips over my 2018 F-150 (which is also a pleasure to drive). In the 10 years I’ve owned my explorer (bought it at 61k miles) I’ve only ever had the check engine light come on once and it was for a small vacuum hose that was easily replaced.

Dave on January 30, 2023

I disagree with the mileage quote..

I have a 2001 Explorer Sport Trac with 250,000 Mi on it. It still starts runs and shifts like brand new.. You treat the truck right it'll treat you right, my friend behind me has a 2002 Ford Ranger with the exact same drivetrain and he went over 300,000 miles middle of last summer.. Only things I've had to do other than routine maintenance was the three little valves in the transmission went out it cost me $700 to get it fixed.. So I'm one saying it you can get really good mileage out of them if you just treat them right..

Joseph P. McDonald on April 18, 2023

One thing after another

2015. I went through four recalls with a fifth one pending. The extended warranty covers the evaporative emission system malfunction. After having both front door panels replaced (Recall) due to delaminating they started doing it again. The power seat stopped working, $1,100 repair needed. Intermittent air bad warnings and computer glitches, enough was enough. 81,000 miles. The car was comfortable but when the engine would occasionally shudder while stopped at a light, that did it. Traded it in on a different brand.

Joseph P. McDonald on April 18, 2023

One thing after another

Molly on December 30, 2021

2004 Eddie Bauer Edition Ford Explorer Is A Money Trap

I Bought an Eddie Bauer edition 2004 Explorer at 193000 miles in April 2019. After the first week needs a new starter motor, a month after, a new belt tensioner. Four months Later 2 new tires, and then 2 months after the radiator and heater coil were replaced. After a year of purchase, a whole transmission was rebuilt. Now, a year and 1/2 later, I am taking in for radiator leak, possible oil or transmission leak, serpentine belt replacement or pulleys, and Heater circuit sensor repair or replacement.

Renne Gryzbowski on August 30, 2023

My 2002 Ford Explorer is at 305,000 and still purring

I've traveled in the city and country with the truck and it is as good as when I bought it with just over 200,000 miles on it. I thought I would get at least 20,000 miles on it before having to look again but after all these years this truck keeps running. I think it's true that if a truck crosses that 100,000 mark you know its a good one and can go the extra mile. I do like to change the oil but avoid doing anything like that in the cold winter months--I think its too stressful for the truck!

Frank Spinelli on April 6, 2022

Retired auto tech instructor

Stay away. Transmissions. Major engine problems ex spark plugs blowing out cracked intake manifolds timing chains turbo problems suspension problems ex rack and pinion wheel bearings control arms front and rear and a lot of electrical issues just to name a few. Ford did not care they just kept producing. The vehicles I am talking about were my families and ashamed l recommended them. I had a loaner car for our family members because of constant repairs

Joel on March 29, 2022

Jolred@comcast.net

I have a 1991 explorer that we had since new, it has about 125k, Ihad the transmission rebuilt around 85k and did most of the minor maintenance myself. It's been a good car for my wife ,she loves it. It's two tone red and grey and we get a lot of offers to buy and complements.i think the rust will get the best of it eventually, useless i have it repaired. It's been in the garage since new but new england weather/salt isn't good.

Joe on June 3, 2023

1999 Eddie Bauer @ 225k miles

I have replaced a few things here and there. I'm going to change Changing the transmission fluid and filter this weekend. Door locks need work. Changed seat covers and have some rust, but still drive it nearly every day. Love it. I hope it's one of the 300k +. Think I will keep driving it as long as it runs, well. Even thinking about a total rebuild and a new coat of clear. Has always been a pleasure to drive.

Cynthia Goss on November 8, 2022

Mostly Good

Ongoing issue I’ve had with my 2002 explorer is the gear indicator on the steering column. Have replaced 5 times. I can drive by feel when it’s not working, but can’t leave car with a valet or anyone. Did get a new transmission at maybe 150,000, $1600. Overall, it’s still going with pretty much no repairs needed other than rat damaged items repaired, I pretty much do no maintenance sad to say,

Joe Rivas on April 2, 2022

Joerivas90805@yahoo.com

I have a 1996 Ford explorer. And it is still going. The only problem I can see now is my mileage meter broke. Not the mile per hour gauge that's still works.all of my driving kids driven it and still going my younges daughter drove it to her first job 300 mile a week for 6 months and it's still going. Iplan to keep it until it finally dies. Ford explorer the beast.

Michae P on March 30, 2022

Starting to show age

I have a 2015 xlt with 72000 miles. At about 70 k, the rack and pinion broke in half. 2300 to replace. Now the rear coil springs broke. Dealer wants $900 to replace. Vehicle otherwise good. Few annoying issues, torn weather stripping, small clear coat failures, and power liftgate needed repair. Hopefully that's it for a long time.

Dave K. on March 28, 2022

Great so far,

Almost a year ago we found a deal on a 2016 Explorer Sport, had 160,000 miles on it, had the carfax showed owners never missed maintenance, or oil change. Still runs perfect, everything works.We had our local Ford dealer inspect and service it, fixed two recalls. We are planning on replacing the windshield, though.

Grunt 11b on May 22, 2023

02/08/17

I have a 2002 v8 /2008 V6 and a 2017 2.3 02 / 198k miles still chugging along, biggest issues is wheel bearings 08 / 283k miles handed off to my son, the original starter finally went bad , tranny solenoid pack at 220k 2017 Ido not foreseethis lasting as long as my previous models , cvt trans , all plastic

Jason on April 6, 2022

Owner

Have owned several explorers over the years and loved them all. My 99 Eddie Bauer was my favorite! Sold it at 275k and was still going strong. My 2004 saved my family in a bad accident head on in 2006. Will always stand by my explorers. All cars have issues overtime. But never had Trans or engine failure.

Shawn R on January 10, 2022

My Issues With The 2004 Ford Explorer

The problems include transmission, brakes, electrical issues. Transmission is encased and cannot be accessed unless it's taken to a dealership with a high cost attached to have the fluid changed. The transmission is now slipping and doesn't want to go in reverse brakes were replaced several times.

javier urquijo on February 8, 2024

Great car to work hard like taxi uner or car service

Hi i do uber i jave a ford explorer 2018 v6 3,5 L .it have 274000 miles great car i have problem with air condition at 201000 miles and suspension part replaced that is all ,yhe rest still from factory trasmision motor started altenator is all from factory hight recomended this car very good car

Elise B on November 20, 2021

The 2012 Ford Explorer Has Leak Problems

The back door leaks when there is any form of rain outside. The water runs down the back seat belt and puddles on the ground causing it to mold and smell. The car shakes while accelerating. The door broke without any hard pressure being put on it. The sensors are constantly going off.

Leslie M on February 19, 2022

Disappointed In The 2013 Ford Explorer

The air conditioner and radio quit working at 7 years old. The computer chip had to be replaced for the air conditioner to be fixed which was $400. The radio transmitter went out which is an $800 part to be able to listen to FM/am radio. Very disappointed in the 2013 ford explorer.

Amber on November 26, 2023

Reliable reliable reliable

Bought my 2015 cot 4x5 with 40k . I am second owner and the only problems I’ve had is the water pump 1100 and the blend motor actuator. It currently has 151k in it and starts right up every time. Daily driver for my wife now since I’ve got a work vehicle. Love me old Nelly!

LORDCAPCOM on March 29, 2022

So FAR AN ENJOYABLE JOURNEY

I HAVE LOVED IT FOR THE MOST PART RADIO HAS NEVER STAYED CONNECTED TO BLU TOOTH SADLY EVEN PAID $500 FOR NEW STRAIGHT FROM FORD REPLACEMENT RADIO SAME PROBLEM . BUT I AM AT 198,000 AND ONLY BASIC REPAIRS BEYOND ONE RADIATOR PROBLEM$1100 . LETS KEEP RIDING FORD !

Shawn on April 2, 2022

1999 Ford Explorer Limited

I have had my Explorer for over 22 years. It drives well and currently has over 193,000 miles. I am still in love with my vehicle. I have only had minor issues. The timing belt was replaced, along with the heating and AC. This V8 is still going strong.

Jon on March 29, 2022

500k

My 1996 Explorer which I bought new has over 500k miles on it. I did put a new transmission in at about 250k but have really only done brakes, tires and oil changes for most of my ownership. It’s been my “ farm” vehicle for about 10 years now

Cassandra R on September 19, 2021

I Would Never Recommend A Ford Explorer To Anyone

It had several engine issues and the tires have gone bad on it several times within the past 5 months. We bought it and the alignment was fine, it's just progressively gotten worse. We got the alignment fixed, and it just did the same thing.

Jimmy O on June 14, 2023

2017 sport explorer

Just hit 200,000. No issues. Lots of highway miles. Front brakes at 180k and rears at 110k. Change oil at 5k at ford and everything else per book religiously. It will go 300k but there will be fuel pump etc kind of stuff I’m sure of.

Virginia L on December 27, 2021

Same Problems With All Of The Ford Explorers

Same problem in all explorers. The transmission and driver side door panel doesn't work. Not reliable at all. I haven't even had mine for even 2 years and it's been broken down for months now. Heat and air don't work right as well.

Sarah H on January 24, 2022

The Issues With 2011 Ford Explorer

2 years of driving my 2011 ford explorer XLT AWD tow package. Problems: had 2 recalls fixed at no charge to me, exhaust leak, replaced the stereo fuse, front end control arms replaced, and issue with the rear hatch not adjusting.

Jerry Olson on March 29, 2022

Mr.

My 1998Explorer made it to 225000 miles then my son took it to his first Army base and drove it another 20000 miles , then sold it to another G. I. Who drove it another 5000 miles . The 4.0 V 6 ran true with regular maintenance.

MM on April 2, 2022

Transmission issues

2020 Explorer XLT had retransmission issues around 20,000. The worst part was geetting it repaired. Took months of going back and forth. Horrible customer service. Finally got a new transmission. Would never recommend a Ford.

Victoria C on June 15, 2021

The Ford Explorer Still Feels Reliable With 180,000 Miles.

The car ran really well until it reached 100,000 miles. The only repairs were ones that were expected-tires, brakes, etc. After 100,000, we needed tie rides, u-joint, shocks, the ac went out and was repaired twice.

Zanita Zofia M on August 12, 2021

2002 Ford Explorer: Problems Continue To Pop Up

My car tends to have a lot of issues with the starter. I have countless problems with the starter just going out and me needing to fix it. I have also had to replace numerous parts just to keep the vehicle alive.

Chayne on June 28, 2022

1998 explorer 287,000 .miles

Still running strong. Besides maintenance, had coolant leak thermostat housing, lower ball joints, and just did head gasket at 286,000 miles. But still going strong and getting 18.5mpg highway.

Summer B on August 25, 2021

My Ford Explorer Can Last

I have not had any problems with it and it is a 2012 with 87k miles on it. It's been very reliable and I have only had to do the regular maintenance on it, oil changes, tires, brakes, etc

Larry Maughan on March 3, 2023

94 Explorer

Have owned since 95. Only major problem intake gasket and transmission went at 150000 miles. Put used transmission in and still going 207000 miles. All other repairs are just consumables.

Amy M on July 22, 2021

My Ford Explorer Is Reliable

They are spacious, reliable, and comfortable. The vehicle handles great in all weather conditions. I love the knob to switch into four-wheel drive. The vehicle is extremely reliable.

Jwable on September 27, 2023

2014 Ford Explorer Limited

Mine is running great with no issues. Do the maintenance before ford recommends it. Why would you wait until 150k to change transmission fluid? Maintenance is key. Don’t be lazy

Colleen on March 29, 2022

97' Ford Explorer XLT

I love my Ford Explorer ! 171,424 miles and still a work horse. I have to say, I haven't treated her very well, keeping up with the maintenance and all, but she still purrs ..

Bonnie G on December 23, 2021

No Major Problems: Ford Explorer

The vehicle has no major problems. The Explorer is extremely reliable. The only slight issue I have with this vehicle is that the blind spot is a bit larger than most.

Frank Tomaskovic on March 28, 2022

I have had good luck with my 2013 explorer

I bought my 2013 explorer brand new in 2012.I follow all the recommendations for maintenance and never had a problem.Right now my vehicle is at 112,000 miles.

Susan D on June 15, 2021

After 125k Miles Constant Parts Need Replaced: 2003 Ford Explorer

I have been required to have it fixed several times. Brakes replaced the rear end, replaced the starter. Replaced the battery after the starter burned it up.

Jessica O on July 4, 2021

Minor Problems, But Long Lifespan: Ford Explore

This vehicle is known for door clips breaking and power window failures. It does have a reliable engine that with proper maintenance will last a long time.

Cody S on September 13, 2021

2004 Ford Explorer Has 100s Of Problems

You will have 100s of problems. My transmission went out 2 times in one year as well as multiple wheel bearings, sensors, and emergency brake.

Mark B on May 25, 2023

2015 Explorer 133,000 miles

Has been good and I have maintained as the manual suggested. Only issue now is a water pump leak, Dealer wants 4k to repair it??!!!

Amari G on July 16, 2021

The Ford Explorer Is Not Very Reliable

My ford explorer is not very reliable. It will break down all the time. It has had several electrical problems in the past.

Sean C on July 30, 2021

Ford Explorer Is Extremely Reliable And Only Has One Problem

The car has over 200k miles. The car still drives well and is reliable. The car does go through brakes and tires too fast.

Liz C on January 8, 2022

Haven't Had The Ford Explorer For Long, But No Issues

This is a very reliable vehicle, I have only had it for less than a year but so far it has given me no problems.

Henry Suriel on January 27, 2024

Still going strong

I have a 07 explorer with 230k , honestly can say that maintenance is the key replace tranny at 170k.

MWL L on February 11, 2022

Ford Explorer Reliable For 170k

No problems until now, 8 years and 170,000 miles later. Beginning to have emissions breakdowns.

Dainya M on June 22, 2021

Reliable And Comfortable: Ford Explorer

I love the reliability, we have over 100,000 miles and no major issues

S.D. Grady

Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show.