2012 Ford Explorer Review: A Good Model Year For The Explorer With Reliability Improvements

Jan 6, 2022

The 2012 Ford Explorer is an SUV with a price range of $11,803 to $16,271. An affordable price point and a better driving experience than other large SUVs help the Explorer earn our recommendation.

The Good

Fantastic fuel economy with an optional 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine, great interior materials for the price, and a more comfortable suspension than the competitors.

The Bad

Power is weak for an SUV as large as the Explorer, the infotainment system is difficult to use, and there are some lingering steering problems from earlier years.

2012 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview

New features for the 2012 model year include a new 2.0L EcoBoost engine, and new paint colors including Ginger Ale Metallic, Cinnamon Metallic, and Dark Blue Pearl Metallic.
Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the outgoing 2011 model year.
Two engine choices are available, including a very efficient 4-cylinder.
Fuel efficiency is great, and is in 1^st place out of 9 full size SUVs with a combined rating of up to 23 miles per gallon.
Safety scores are good for an SUV, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The 2012 Ford Explorer ties for 7^th place out of 9 full size SUVs, based on owner reviews. For a three-row SUV, the Explorer is a decent choice, but has less cargo space and power than the competition.

Expert Ratings

KBB

3.7/5

US News

7.8/10

Cars.com

4.2/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Jonathan m

It can take a beating and continue on going without any issue.

The reliability of the engine is what i like the most. It is also very comfortable and spacious. The gas mileage is not the best, but the power output is great. My main dislike is the difficulty of changing some parts, they're put together in a way that requires many extra steps.

Janet F

Love my explorer’s comfort and gas mileage.

Do not really have any problems with it at all. I tote my young nieces around comfortably. Air conditioner works well in entire car. Navigation is exceptional. Leather interior looks beautiful. Large area in back for shopping. We had a small camper which it pulled nicely.

Collette K

Future planning for Room to Grow

I'm pleased with the value, mileage, and cabin room. Perfect for 2 growing kids. Planned purchase of a used vehicle so that as the kids age into teen-hood, and have accompanying friends and family, that we're able to travel with ease.

Anne B

Easy handling. Turns easy and always feels secure.

Love the way it drives and the size. Had an explorer before this one and had it 13 years. A great vehicle!

Victoria S

The lights is very appealing and bright.

Every time I start it, the engine purrs and it run smoothly on the road. I think the seating is very comfortable and the vehicle is super reliable to get me and my family around. The features of the vehicle is very appealing to look at. I like the fact it fits all for when we go on family road trips.

Lyn C

Ford Explorer is excellent family vehicle.

I have had few problems with my vehicle in 7 years of ownership. All issues so far have been covered under my 100, 000 mile warranty. The vehicle still has a smooth drive and is extremely comfortable for our family of four. The driver and passenger seats are the most comfortable of any vehicle I have ever been in. I love the sync radio system and the hands free phone connection is excellent (much better than other vehicles I have been in).

Stephanie D

It is easy to have a child in hand and alter the seats as needed for storage.

Comfortable and smooth drive. Minimal leg room in the second row which is hard for adults with long legs to be comfortable. Bucket seats are great with my small children. My backup camera views backwards and is an expensive fix. Overall reliable vehicle with minimal issues and have had it 5.5 years.

William P

Ford explorer limited 2012 review.

The ford explorer is a car that I would recommend to anyone looking for a practical vehicle. Not only do people confuse you for a cop, the explorer is a well performing car that has more features than you need. With great driving and handling, the explorer is a great car for any person.

Negative Owner Reviews

Melissa J

Good for space, not for driving.

The vehicle has had lots of problems. Particularly with navigation and Bluetooth. We have to constantly bring the car in for navigation and Bluetooth settings to be updated. The seats do not keep the memory as it is supposed to do and the in seat cooling and heating does not work.

Abby H

I guess the color of the car.

Worst car ever. Hate how it looks. Hate how it smells. Hate everything about it. It's a good car overall but just not my cup of tea. Maybe for someone else but just not for me. Anywho, want to get rid of this car. It has been into an accident before hand. It also has a great deal of problems with it.

Amy T

It jerks as if it has been hit from behind.

It is an uncomfortable ride and we have had to fix this car more times in the past two years than any other car we ever had. It also jerks every so often as if it has been hit from behind. I will never buy a ford again.

Elise B

Poor purchase... Will not buy again.

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. Cheaply made car. Will not buy another.

rebecca c

Hate the blind spots. Hate that the catalytic converter had to be replaced so early because of a poor design. Hate that it's not that old and things have already stopped working

HORRIBLE BLIND SPOTS. When you are pulling out of a driveway you cannot see people standing on the sidewalk. Very poor design!

lauren o

It is uncomfortable to drive and breaks down alot.

It is very uncomfortable to drive. My hips and legs hurt because the seat and the pedals do not have enough adjustments. Also the back seats do not tighten very well for car seats

Julie B

I do not recommend it, it is just to wide.

It is just way too wide. Have hit the side view mirrors multiple times because of that. Parts breaking down on interior, the vinyl on the door split. The vent plastic cracked. Lots of little frustrations.

Tabetha M

Good space, but terrible gas mileage.

The 2012 ford explorer has terrible gas mileage, only getting about 14-16 mpg. The radio no longer works and we've had to replace almost every major part of this vehicle. I am comparing this to an older model car that I own, in which I have not had to replace any major parts. The amount of space has been decent for our family of five, but will not be sufficient when we have our fourth child. We do like that we can adjust the seats into cargo mode and haul larger items.

What Problems Does the 2012 Ford Explorer Have?

The 2012 Ford Explorer has an average number of complaints compared to other SUVs on the market. There are fewer problems than the newer 2013 version, making 2012 a better choice.

Body and paint problems, including paint cracking and flaking on the hood, are the most common issues. The only solution to fix failing paint is to repaint the affected panels, costing about $1,050 depending on local labor rates.

Interior problems are also a frequent complaint from owners. The most common issue is the armrest on the door cracking. Replacing the door panel is the only solution, costing about $600.

Power steering failures are another problem. A new steering gear assembly fixes the problem, and is covered by a recall in some cases. If your vehicle isn’t covered by the recall, then the parts cost about $2,000.

There are 6 recalls, which is average for an SUV from 2012. The recalls include the steering gears, electric power steering assist, interior door handle, hub unit bearing, and rear suspension. All are serious and affect the mechanical reliability of the vehicle.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2012 Ford Explorer is average-priced for an SUV, with a range of $11,803 to $16,271, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $28,280 to $39,855. Deprecation is average, dropping about 40% in value over the first 5 years of ownership.

Base is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, roof rails, a 6-way power driver’s seat, and a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback and AUX jack.
XLT is in the middle of the lineup and has 18-inch aluminum wheels, improved cloth seating, automatic headlights, fog lights, parking sensors, a keyless entry pad, and a 4.2-inch voice-controlled Sync infotainment system.
Limited is the flagship choice with 20-inch wheels, leather seating, keyless ignition, remote start, 12-speaker stereo system, power liftgate, 8-way power driver’s seat, and 8-inch infotainment screen with navigation.

Base

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

XLT

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

Limited

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

How Long Will the 2012 Ford Explorer Last?

A 2012 Ford Explorer will last about 200,000 miles when properly maintained, which is average for the class. Annual regular maintenance costs are more expensive than other SUVs on the market. Repair Pal estimates them to be about $820.

RuthAnn M

No problems other than usual maintenance. I am close to its 100,000 tune up now. And just bought my 1st battery since having her.

Maggie R

Yes, I have not had any major problems with the car. I trust it on long car rides and on uneven terrain and dirt roads. The computer system in the car is the only problem because sometimes it is slow or does not connect to my phone with Bluetooth.

Shelvin B

Yes the car is very reliable, it does not have any problems the car is just right for my family if I could I would buy everybody in the world a ford explorer.

Bobby C

Reliable, depends how you drive but if you 52(3 care of it it'll take care of you. Not too bad on maintenance as well.

Linda D

We have had no problems other than replacing the wheel bearings at 118000 miles. Other than that we have had no problems with our ford explorer.

Tiago O

Never had any problems with my ford explorer! To be honest is better than I thought! I have 180 thousand miles on it.

Shannon r

It has had no problems I have gone out of town numerous times and it has drove perfects day if I ever had a pro it was a easy fix.

Onetta F

The ford explorer is very reliable I have no problems at all this is a great vehicle very roomy very comfortable and durable.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology features are average in the 2012 Explorer and are the same as what was found on the older 2010 model, when the fifth generation was launched.

Base technology includes a simple AM/FM/CD stereo with AUX connectivity paired to a 6-speaker sound system.
Upgrades include a 4.2-inch or 8-inch infotainment system with Ford Sync, Bluetooth, navigation, and an upgraded 12-speaker Sony stereo.
Standard safety features include antilock brakes, airbags, stability and traction control, as well as trailer sway control. Upgrades include a rearview camera, and parking sensors.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is average for an SUV, but there is no longer a V8 option for the Explorer. With the V6 engine, the SUV goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.3 seconds. The V6 also tows up to 5,000 pounds, which is lower than the V8-powered rivals.

The base engine is a 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower.
A fuel-efficient 2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder is available and makes 240 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Explorer?

The 2012 Ford Explorer is smaller than other full size SUVs on the market, but is larger than a midsize. Passenger room is good with plenty of space in the first two rows. Legroom in the third row is cramped compared to some of the larger competitors. Cargo space is also a bit smaller than other large SUVs with 21 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 43.8 with the third row folded flat, and 80.7 with both rear rows folded flat. There’s enough room to fit 5 suitcases with all the seats up.

How Does the 2012 Ford Explorer Compare to Other SUVs?

Ranking 7^th out of 9 full size SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Explorer is near the bottom of the list.

In first place is the larger Nissan Armada, which is in a similar price range as the Explorer. Where Nissan stands out is with better passenger room, and a more powerful V8 engine. The Explorer wins out with better technology, and a nicer interior. Overall, both are decent SUVs, but the Armada is a more capable choice.

Another competitor is the more expensive Chevrolet Tahoe. Styling, passenger room, towing capacity, and power are all better in the Tahoe. The interior materials, infotainment system, and ride quality are all better in the Explorer. If you’re looking for a large SUV testing out both is a good idea since they offer very different driving experiences.

Ranks #7 Full Size SUV by Owners

2012 Nissan Armada

4.55

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe

4.54

Tie

2012 Ford Explorer

4.34

Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ford Explorer a Good SUV?

Yes, the 2012 Ford Explorer is a good SUV based on information from 306 verified owner reviews, and 16 government and automotive websites. Positives include high-quality interior components, and a smoother ride than the competition. Where it loses some points is with less power than other SUVs, and the infotainment system is tricky to use. Overall, the 2012 model is a good choice for shoppers since there are fewer problems than other years.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Loretta M on June 21, 2021

Speed performance drive well fit 6 ppl.

It could be bigger in the front well made car. It fine for 6 ppl. There are no problems so far. Very happy with my car. Very reliable drive. Didn't have any more to say the car is a good car what more do you ask of me please good paint job good seats good dashboard. Good everything.

Mary C on May 26, 2021

Ford explorer - nice but unreliable.

Drives a bit bumpy, shakes when I brake too fast. Have had lots of problems with residue on the battery. The cabin itself is comfy and the heating unit reliable. The backup camera goes in and out a lot, and is not reliable at all. The entertainment system is easy to use and has bluetooth features.

Michael R on May 20, 2021

The 2012 ford explorer is a very good vehicle for traveling long distances.

The seats are very comfortable with heated seating during the winter which are very comfortable. It has Bluetooth so it can connect to your phone. 12 speakers in the car so music can be heard perfectly. It has power seats on the side of the seats so you do not have a hard time adjusting the seats.

Brandon P on April 20, 2021

This car is top of the line. Every person should buy this car.

Nothing is wrong with my car. It does the job. There are never any issues with my car. If I had any issues I would not drive this car. Tomorrow I will drive my car to the store with no issues. I cannot wait to drive this car. It is so great. Anyone should invest in buying this car for themselves.

DEBORAH G on April 15, 2021

The gas mileage is amazing!

I love the mpg on the vehicle, it's been easy to maintain, no big issues, if you sign up for ford.Com it sends you recalls and you can get your car serviced. The miles per gallon on the Hwy is amazing 400 miles, on long trips I can drive 5-6 hours before I have to fill up. It is very spacious inside seats 7. I've used the car for coast to coast trips. The dash lets you know if anything is wrong with the car.

gloria h on April 1, 2021

How it handles and the safety of the car.

I have no complaints. It's a safe car, which is the reason I bought the explorer. Smooth ride and good gas mileage.

Achele M on April 1, 2021

Great in the snow. Handles smoothly and gives confidence when driving

Like the overall feel and drive. Love the color. Hate how at 5 years everything starts to break

Bethany R on March 27, 2021

It is a safe car and great to drive a busy family around, especially to different sporting events.

I love the space, especially the third row. I like how it drives in the winter and snow. I do not like how it is rusting on the back and the drivers side door is ripping.

Gina R on March 20, 2021

It's a safe SUV. I haven't had any issue with the car.

I like the size of it. Has a good ride in bad weather. Don't like that it doesn't have extras in it.

Si O on March 20, 2021

There is automated back seats.

It drives very well. Much more reliable than previous cars. The breaking is smooth. Only had to bring it in twice. Not much to say about it. My family likes all of the features like heated seats and dual air conditioning. We like the car. It is comfortable.

James B on March 19, 2021

Overall it has been a very reliable vehicle.

Gas mileage is good on the road for a vehicle weighing 4000 pounds, I have gotten 25 to 28 on the road. The v6 seems to have enough get up & go. The ride is good. Tires are on the expensive side. So far it has started every time, even in the dead of winter.

Paris D on March 13, 2021

The temperamental SUV that can.

Everything is really great, except, when it has shut off randomly when coming to a complete stop. Other than that mystery problem, the space is great. It rides smooth, handles turns great, and love the heated seats. The touch screen is a great feature and I like that I have a third back seat for people if I need it or it is extra space for hauling stuff.

kristi p on March 12, 2021

It has tons of room and rides smooth. It has great options.

I love the style and options. I hate how many miles it has. I love the size of it.

Jennifer C on March 11, 2021

Awesome vehicle for our family.

Performance is a smooth ride with decent gas mileage. It has been a reliable vehicle with only a few recalls and one time computer did get faulty but was replaced and under warranty. It is comfortable for our family of four and nice trunk space for groceries and sports gear. I love the leather seats and connection to my phone.

Heath D on March 10, 2021

Back up camera and Bluetooth m/navigation capabilities

Extremely reliable, never had any issues. Love the back-up camera and the ability to connect mobile devices via Bluetooth. It is spacious and has plenty of room for children as there is 3rd row seating.

Wanda S on March 3, 2021

The most important thing others should know is that it has everything needed to just take off to wherever.

My E250 van was converted into a class B RV. I like the amenities that it has but I dislike the lack of storage space. I like the design because it's easily driveable.

Piper R on February 27, 2021

Great vehicle that rides smooth.

The vehicle rides very smoothly and has a very touchy gas pedal which I like. The front and back seat of the car is very roomy and can fit 7 people. I really recommend this car to large families or families that participate in sports because it has great gas mileage.

Tiffany W on February 15, 2021

Mom Car You're Not Embarrassed to Drive

Love the Sync system; it is easy to set up and use. I frequently stream things like Audible, podcasts, and music services. I love all the room and ease of folding up seats for storage. I can fit a lot of things in my car very easily and quickly. I run on gravel roads a lot. The Explorer holds up well on them and handles nicely, even in mud and snow.

Erin W on February 8, 2021

It's a safe car for my family.

One of the best cars we've purchased. Just wish doors weren't so thick and heavy, not much space once you open the door to get kids in and out.

Jessica O on February 3, 2021

Pros and cons of ford explorer.

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. It also has the capability of a towing package which comes in handy if you like to camp or go boating/fishing. The interior is comfortable with memory seat positions for up to two people on the driver's side.

Christy N on February 1, 2021

Love my ford explorer. Despite the ford critics!

I love my vehicle! I have not had any major issues with it in the last 7 years I have been driving it. Only regular wear and tear. It is very good on gas, considering it is a larger vehicle and I feel safer in this car than a regular sedan! I will probably purchase a newer version soon.

Sammy A on January 29, 2021

Ford explorer review after 2 years driving.

I been driving 2012 ford explorer for 2 years now I love this car it is so comfortable to drive and you get a lot of space in the back when you fold all the chairs down. There is a common problem I found out that the rubber on the bottom of the front glass under the wipers will start to break to pieces after a while and you have to buy a new replacement for that and the plastic piece on the edge of the front glass also will fly from your car if you do not glue it before it does since you know the problem now. Other than those little silly plastic pieces I think the car is amazing and I really love it is even a gas saver.

Angela B on January 28, 2021

Comfortable SUV for Families

I have enjoyed our Explorer. It has a smooth ride and is comfortable for many people. It has held up quite well over the past 6 years we have had it. There are several things I dislike. The back doors are strangely shaped which makes them larger than the opening. This is an issue when parked next to someone and trying to get children in and out. Also, the cup holders and door compartments are poorly placed. I also dislike not being able to set a temperature like most other cars have. We have had to do regular maintenance but nothing too major.

Jenny C on January 21, 2021

Reliable and great third row of seats

The car drives well. Love the third row of seats. I do not like that I have to turn on the headlights. I was surprised that they didn't turn on automatically. I also had trouble when I needed to get the windshield replaced. The windshield has a special trim that really can only be changed at the dealership. Since I have had it I have had the brakes replaced, the rotors replaced. Overall it has been very reliable.

William P on January 16, 2021

Ford explorer limited 2012 review.

STEPHAN S on January 16, 2021

It has a big truck and adjustable seats for more room

It seats 6 comfortably and it's big. They see you coming down the road. It's red and has the best air condition for the hot place we live in (Texas)

Abby H on January 14, 2021

I guess the color of the car.

Kara G on January 14, 2021

Great family car! Room for the kids plus enough storage.

I love my 2012 ford explorer! I have 3 children and love that it has 3 rows of seating with the option to put the last row down for more storage in the back. I do wish there was a bit more room between the front seats and the middle row of seats. It is very tight fitting for my son's rear-facing car seat. Spacious up front and a nice overall ride. I have not had any issues with my vehicle since we bought it and I will get another when needed.

Fran C on January 13, 2021

Ford explorer for dependability.

I have always owned ford cars and have and have always been very satisfied with them. They have been very dependable, safe and comfortable. I have had no major mechanical problems with any ford car I have owned other than normal service like oil changes and service recommended by ford.

Sean C on January 10, 2021

My engine gas over 100,000 miles and never have had to replace anything in 5 years...except tires of course.

Having most of my family work and retire from Ford Motor company I grew up always believing Fords are the best... And they are. Everything about the company history to the product.

ashley O on January 1, 2021

The ford explorer is a amazing vehicle. Very spacious with third row seating.

This vehicle is awesome if you have kids. It's so spacious and roomy. It drives great very smooth. Dependable good looking vehicle. I would recommend this SUV to anyone! It has all new features, heated seats, backup camera, some even have the DVD installed.

MIchelle W on December 31, 2020

Comfy, might be d***y from kids all the time. Good pick up and go.

Pick up and power I like. Too far off the ground-sometimes hard to get in and out.

Javier C on December 18, 2020

Gas friendly economical great suspension and spacious

This Ford has about 160k plus miles and no problems. Very reliable, spacious and smooth ride. Multi terrain capabilities and two package available.

Mark A on December 17, 2020

Careful of the sync entertainment center - it doesn't always work right.

I like all the cargo space and that I have enough seats for everyone. However the back-up camera doesn't always work and it often freezes with my iPod.

Caitlin S on December 15, 2020

It is easy to drive. Very user friendly and keeps my family very happy.

I do like my car, but I wish I had a little more room for luggage and storage. My kids have room but I would like to have a little more for their stuff.

Ty L on December 14, 2020

Towing package really slows down the acceleration that's the only thing that took me getting used to.

Overall I have been happy. Nice comfortable ride, good vehicle dependable.

Beckie T on December 7, 2020

This SUV is overall a great car and the gap control is my favorite detail.

I really enjoy the gap control which allows you to set the cruise to a certain speed and when you approach a car going slower in front of you it automatically slows down keeping a certain distance between you then when that car is no longer in front of you it returns to your cruise control speed without you ever having to step on the brake or gas pedal. I also like the backup camera, and alerts to oncoming cars or objects. The warning light on the side mirrors are helpful to alert you to cars in your blind spot. The front seats are very comfortable with all their adjustments and heat and ac systems. Love the voice command and navigation system. Really enjoy the sun and moon roof. Another perk I enjoy is the automatic windshield wipers that come on when water hits the windshield. This size of SUV seems to be the perfect size for my lifestyle. It accommodates my grandchildren well and still has plenty of room to transport large items with third row seat down. Love the automatic push button storage seat system. I also enjoy the size of the large touch screen as compared to some of the newer models with a. Smaller touch screen. I like the key bob and the push button start. You still have a push button code on the outside of door if you do not have key fob. It will not allow you to accidentally lock key fob in car. On this particular year model 2012, the hazard light button is placed directly below the radio and touch screen controls which causes you to accidently hit it often. Bad design on that part. The middle and back seats are stiff and not very comfortable. I have also experienced wind noise coming from front windshield when traveling on interstate and when wind is hitting it in a certain way. The leather stitching on front door armrest has started to come apart. Not particularly fond of the body style. I have a white one but wish the white color had more of a paralyzed affect and not such a common white color.

Kr P on December 5, 2020

My car is comfortable and family friendly. We love using my car.

It has high mileage. It is comfortable to drive. It could do better in gas mileage. It has a lot of space for my family. It is easy to drive. It has everything I would want or need. My family loves my car. I love the navigation system. I would buy another one just like it. I wish it had less mileage.

Ben M on December 3, 2020

Safely is import. Great price and reliable. Love my car

Had Ford cars for the last 20. Very happy with them.

Justin F on December 2, 2020

Good car, good on gas, not the best family vehicle.

The vehicle is noisy, very underpowered. It is got a lot of great room inside. Electronica consul and infotainment system is confusing and not user-friendly. Also it does not have car seat hook ups in all of the seats as expected. In all it is a great car for a high school student or a single person.

Ellie H on November 29, 2020

Ford Explorer a reliable car...until it isn't.

It's a great car overall but it's required a lot of maintenance, especially the last year. I definitely feel safe driving it. I also wish it was roomier - it always seems a bit crowded with our family of just three.

Isabella L on November 29, 2020

Everything about the vehicle is amazing love everything about it.

My car drives very smoothly, helps me get from point a to point b. It has really cool features where I can change colors in my car to different colors of the rainbow. It can pick up speed easily and brakes work amazing too. It has leather seats. Is had both heated and ac seats. Connects to multiple phones on Bluetooth where I can play music with one phone and also have my phone connected to the Bluetooth. Has a very clear backup camera. If I want to put up the very back seats I can just press a button and it automatically put the seats up. To put them down I just press the button again and decline.

Courtney M on November 24, 2020

That it is a very good car, not too bad on gas

I like the size. It is very good for the amount of people I need it for. And I don't like it because it has a few problems

Rose C on November 23, 2020

It is convenient to take long trips with a family of 7.

I love my explorer because it is a 4wd. I can store anything in the back and it is very affordable. Very easy to clean the carpets. Very nice comfort. If I ever get another car my explorer would be my option again. It has a cruise control and the navigation system it is very easy to manage.

Crystal H on November 22, 2020

Family safe and comfortable ford SUV.

I find my explorer to be very comfortable to drive and I feel that my family would be well protected in the event of an accident. It has been very reliable for the most part other than a few issues with the motorcraft battery going dead on me without reason. It drives and handles very well even in bad weather. I do have an ongoing issue with the rack on top leaking down into my back hatch and into the spare tire compartment which has caused a foul odor and molding which has been difficult to get rid of. We have a large family and can easily and comfortably fit 7 people in the vehicle and still have plenty of leg room as well as room for our belongings. I like that all of the seats in the back fold down to make room accessible to haul larger items if needed. The back up camera is a plus that I have never had before and I enjoy it other than the beeper going off even when you aren't very close to anything. The camera is not overly large and distracting like some others I have seen in other explorers. Also I have had a few problems with sensors coming on and going off at random time the check engine and air bag but overall the vehicle has performed very well. It goes fast when I want to and stops well when I need to. When it's time to purchase another vehicle is most likely will lean toward another explorer or similar SUV.

Darian P on November 21, 2020

There are so many customizations available.

I have the limited edition. The features are great. Touch screen for air, radio, phone, and navigation controls. It has park assist, blind spot assistance, and beeps when you are getting close to something you may hit. The dash screen tells you what area of the car is setting the beeper off. Double sunroof (front and back seats) and third row seating. Back seats are folded up and down by button.

Mike S on November 19, 2020

Very comfortable with the leather interior.

Very comfortable ride. Handles all conditions well. Better mileage than my previous SUV - Ford edge. Very nice having the third row seats to bring along additional passengers. A friend has the next model up with power seats in the third row and that is even more convenient.

Chris A on November 14, 2020

2012 Ford Explorer madness.

Motor problems with the seats o have had to replace the motors twice. The seatbelts seem to get stuck constantly. How is not updated so it is easier to use your phone, car key needs a new battery like every month outlet breaks all the time and has to be put back in.

Heather R on November 7, 2020

Ford Explorer a modern luxury vehicle with many extras, but also rugged.

My Explorer is perfect. I love the size and all of the extras! Leather seats are comfy, I love the dual climate control and rear climate control. My explore is four wheel drive, I have never been stuck. The Explorer goes great they mud, snow and on ice. I really like that the Explorer has leather seats, heated and cooled seats, and so many extras similar to a luxury vehicle, but it is also tough and rugged enough to drive off-road.

Melanie M on November 6, 2020

Arm rests split apart a seam.

The armrest split open a the seam so had to glue them. It drives and rides nice love the look of it, I have never had any major problems with it so far.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.