2014 Ford Explorer Review: A Comfortable and Efficient 3-Row SUV

Dec 1, 2021

The 2014 Ford Explorer is a full-size SUV with a price range of $14,945 to $22,144. More reliable and affordable than some rivals, it’s a good choice for shoppers on a budget.

The Good

The 2014 Explorer has above-average interior materials, excellent fuel economy with the four-cylinder engine, and a comfortable suspension.

The Bad

Passenger space in the second and third rows is cramped for its class. The technology is outdated, and towing capacity is less than competitors.

2014 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview

New features for the 2014 Ford Explorer include electric power steering, and automatic headlights.
Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power. Owner complaints are similar compared to other SUVs.
Three engines are available, including a powerful EcoBoost V6, and an efficient four-cylinder. All are available with either front or all-wheel-drive.
Fuel economy is great, ranking 2^nd out of 9 full size SUVs, getting up to 23 miles per gallon combined.
Safety ratings are excellent, earning a five-star rating in government crash tests.
The 2014 Explorer ranks 7^th out of 9 full size SUVs based on owner reviews. A decent SUV overall, but dull and less passenger room than its competitors.

Expert Ratings

KBB

3.6 /5

U.S. News

7.6/10

Cars.com

4.6/5

Positive Owner Reviews

Theresa H

Ford is a good American brand.

Like sitting up higher. Like roominess. Dislike lower mileage in town. Sometimes difficult to see behind if you are short.

Lisa R

The back up camera is very helpful for seeing what's behind you when backing up.

I like the back up camera. I like how it looks. There's nothing that I dislike. No complaints.

Lora A

Good deal on a Ford explorer.

No problems love my car, comfortable, wish it had better gas mileage, great SUV to have. Somehow my panel in my driver side is coming up wish it didn't.

Josekarlos C

It is free from accidents.

I like the leather seats. I like the mileage. I like the color.

Gina H

Spacious and affordable family SUV with sleek look.

Love the size and features of the Explorer. The third row seating is great and easy to flip up and down. Spacious feeling and plenty of room to store stuff In the back. The large control screen is nice and easy to use. Love Ford Sync and the quality of the back up camera. Fabulous feature I can't live without now is the keypad entry.

Donna K

Ford is a good vehicle and safe.

I like that I feel safe in that car. What I hate is when I turn off the car the radio do not go off until I open the door.

Matt J

My favorite car I have owned!

We love our ford explorer. It is awesome in the snow and so far seems very reliable. It is quite comfortable for short trips and is decent on long car rides. It is a blast to drive and holds the road extremely well on curvy mountain roads. It is very spacious in all seats and the cargo area is easy to use.

Dominique G

Tuxedo black 2014 ford explorer.

I love my car, it is reliable, modern, and dependable. Recently. There has been a problem with my brakes, but I plan on getting it fixed soon. The car is not the best on gas, but it is not an overwhelming cost. My favorite aspect of the car is the 8-seats and the fully functional air conditioning vents on all rows.

Negative Owner Reviews

Tabatha B

Not really understanding but there is nothing interesting about this vehicle.

It is old it is cuts off always smells like tires burning, the driver's side door handle is broke, the part where you read how much gas and how fast you are going broke. The outside of the car is rusted, and some of the seats are Brooke, windshield wipers are also broke front and back.

Susan C

Family car wouldn't recommend if someone is looking into it who has multiple kid.

I have the 3 row and it is an inconvenience because my kids have to climb over the backseat. I have car seats installed so I cannot just lift up a side seat when they get in and out of the car. Not to mention the trunk with the third row up is none. I have 3 little ones which all are in car seats so I have to use the third row.

Robin G

Ford Explorer - do not buy it.

Had a recall for carbon monoxide leaking into cabin making people sick. Touch screen is always on the fritz Front two windows stick on auto feature Horrible blind spots Third row is tiny and makes truck super tiny Always feel like car is hesitating when accelerating Looks good. Inside is nice.

Kayla N

Explorer: the cons on a highly recommended vehicle.

Craftsman ship lacking. Door keeps falling apart. Customer service states it is recalled yet they want me to pay out of pocket for repairs. Also radio screen tends to go blank and have to restart car to fix. Door sensors do not always work thinking door open when they’re all closed.

Sean C

The engine is not the right size for the truck.

I do not like the pickup of the car. The weight distraction is horrible. It does not drive smoothly.

Robin H

Do not buy a Ford Explorer!

There is an odd odor coming from exhaust. There’s a horrible blind spot in front passenger side. The touch screen goes blank often. The two front windows stick 3/4 of the way when cold. The transmission always feels like it slipping. It is difficult to see out the side windows. Recall on door trim. Recall for carbon monoxide in the cabin of the vehicle. Lawsuits against Ford for the carbon monoxide issues.

Nicki B

Tow package capabilities are great and tows with ease.

It is very basic but dependable. Haven't had any issues with it and has been very reliable. We took this on vacation and got great gas mileage for an SUV and were comfortable while driving the 16 states we visited. I like the tow package that came with this vehicle and have had zero issues towing our bayliner. Just wished it had more features for the basic model.

Kathy H

Don't buy a Ford! As the don't stand behind their vehicle.

Paint chipping, bad warranty insurance, sunroof motor stopped. Windshield panel covers fly off. Radiator issues

What Problems Does the 2014 Ford Explorer have?

The 2014 Ford Explorer’s six recalls and over 950 registered complaints cover exhaust leaks and suspension woes. The 2014 Ford Explorer has fewer problems than the 2013 model, but more than the 2015. Overall, complaints are similar in number compared to other full size SUVs its age.

Interior problems, including door panels warping, are a common complaint owners have. Automotive interior shops can glue the panels back together in some cases, or they will need to be replaced with new ones.

Exhaust fumes in the cabin are a frequent problem owners report. There are several complaints, and the usual cause is an exhaust leak, but Ford has not found a solution yet.

Bubbling paint issues are also brought up by owners. The paint will bubble when it doesn’t cure properly after being painted. Repainting the affected areas is the only way to fix the problem.

There are six recalls affecting the 2014 Explorer, average for an SUV its age. The recalls include rear suspension toe links, hub bearings, and link shaft brackets. Most serious are the suspension toe links which can cause an accident if they break.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2014 Ford Explorer is more affordable than other full size SUVs, with a price range of $14,945 to $22,144 depending on the model and mileage. When new, the retail price was $30,015 to $41,675. Depreciation is faster than average in current market conditions, losing about 42% of its value in the first five years.

Base is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, a 4.2-inch driver information screen, power mirrors, cruise control, and a six-speaker stereo system with CD MP3 and AUX connectivity.
XLT is above it in the lineup and comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels, upgraded brakes, leather-wrapped steering wheel, SecuriCode keyless entry, voice control Sync, and USB connectivity.
Limited is built for luxury and has 20-inch aluminum wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, 10-way power driver seat, eight-inch infotainment screen with Sync, rearview camera, remote start and a 12-speaker Sony stereo system.
Sport focuses on on-road performance with a more powerful V6 engine, 20-inch machined wheels, black exterior trim, and suspension improvements.

Base

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

XLT

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

Limited

290 HP 19 MPG

View Details

Sport

365 HP 18 MPG

View Details

How Long Will the 2014 Ford Explorer Last?

A properly maintained 2014 Ford Explorer will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for its class. Maintenance costs are estimated to be $725 per year, according to Repair Pal, more expensive to own than other SUVs.

Matt A

I haven't had any problems since we bought it. Even though it was used. It drives good and never has any problems.

Erica B

It is very reliable. The only problem I had was a recall and they fixed it with no hassles. I have had no other issues thank the lord. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

Judith H

Yes, it is very reliable. I have never had any regular problems with the vehicle, only regular wear and tear.

scott f

Very reliable, the 4 wheel drive in the snow is great especially. It is also very comforting sitting higher up than compared to being in a car. No rust issues yet or anything.

evan r

It is very reliable and never breaks down. The only problem that sometimes arises is that sometimes the hot air does not work in the car.

Cristina C

It is pretty reliable. There were a couple recalls like the lifting of the interior by the doors. It also had some rear tire issues of some sort which were fixed and never became an issue with my vehicle.

Jessie C

As I stated in my previous answer, very reliable and no problems since I bought it. Just performed regular maintenance like oil changes.

Karen H

Yes it is. Only had 1 problem since I have had it but have had several recalls that I had to get addressed.

2014 Explorer Walkaround Video

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

Technology in the 2014 Ford Explorer is average for its class, but doesn’t really stand out from the competition.

Base technology includes a six-speakers AM/FM/CD stereo system with an AUX input port.
Upgrades include a USB port, voice-activated Sync, Bluetooth connectivity, an eight-inch infotainment screen with navigation, and an upgraded 12-speaker Sony stereo system.
For safety, the Explorer comes standard with antilock brakes, stability & traction control systems, and airbags. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, blind spot information system, and rear cross traffic alert.

What Engine Options are Available?

The 2014 Ford Explorer has three engines: 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, standard 3.5L V6, and twin-turbo 365-hp EcoBoost 3.5L. Performance is good in the 2014 Explorer compared to other full size SUVs. The Sport model with the upgraded V6 engine goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is less than other large SUVs.

The base engine is a 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower.
An upgraded fuel-efficient 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine is available and has 240 horsepower.
The most powerful engine is the 3.5L turbocharged V6 and it produces 365 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Explorer?

The 2014 Ford Explorer is smaller than other full size SUVs on the market. It has three rows of seating and can fit up to seven people. Seating in the second and third rows is cramped for adults, but fits kids comfortably. Cargo space is lower than average for its class. It has 21 cu. ft. of room behind the third row, 43.8 behind the second, and 80.7 with all the seats folded flat. Enough room for three to 10 suitcases.

How Does the 2014 Ford Explorer Compare to Other SUVs?

The 2014 Ford Explorer ranks 7^th out of nine full-size SUVs based on owner reviews, placing near the bottom of its class.

In first place is the Toyota Sequoia, which is much more expensive than the Explorer. The Toyota is larger, has a more powerful engine, can tow more weight, and has better reliability ratings than the Ford. Technology is more up-to date in the Ford, but if you’re looking for a large SUV, the Sequoia is a better choice.

Another rival is the Chevrolet Tahoe, which is in the same price range as the Explorer. Passenger room is better in the Chevy, but reliability and technology are similar. The Ford is more refined and comfortable to drive, and feels more nimble on city streets. If you’re in the market for an SUV, you should test drive both to see which you prefer.

Ranks #7 Full Size SUV by Owners

2014 Toyota Sequoia

4.78

2014 Chevrolet Tahoe

4.61

2014 Ford Explorer

4.41

Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Ford Explorer a Good SUV?

After completing our research including 620 owner reviews and information from 16 government and automotive websites, yes, the 2014 Explorer is a good SUV. Positives include nice interior materials, and good power with the EcoBoost V6. Where it falls short is with less passenger space than competitors, and outdated technology. Overall, the Explorer is a decent SUV, even if it’s not class-leading.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Mrs Miles on March 10, 2023

Absolute worst vehicle I've ever had

Bought the car with less than 80,000 miles. Bought it at the end of June. In the first week of October, it broke down. The water pump was leaking. Had to park it or face catastrophic engine failure. The mechanic said it is a huge and expensive fix because it's a timing chain driven water pump. That means that ALL of that has to be replaced, and the motor pretty much has to be dropped. Total cost: $4,500. Yes, you read that right. Not to mention, the ABS light is now on, AND the catalytic converter is broken too. We could've bought a whole other car for this!!!! I hate hate hate hate HATE this car.

Elizabeth M on June 25, 2021

Great family vehicle for road trips.

As a family of 4 we really love the space in the ford explorer. We take road trips often and have plenty of room to be comfortable in the car for a long period of time. The gas mileage is also very reasonable. It drives very smooth and the seats are comfortable to sit in for long periods of time.

Amanda I on June 19, 2021

Ford explorer good for city driving and commuting.

The explorer does not get the best gas mileage. It is a very comfortable car to travel in, however if you are into fast/zippy performance, I cannot recommend it. Maint. And repair costs are average. My model does have things I appreciate such as heated seats, temp control for passengers in the back, and Bluetooth radio.

Ana M on June 19, 2021

2014 limited ford explorer.

No problem, excellent vehicle. Great for long distance travel and short distance. We purchased this vehicle about 4 years ago and we have not had to take it to the mechanic except for oil change. The limited edition includes all leather seats, Sony system, heated seating and three lanes. We feel very safe driving it and is gas efficient as well since it comes with eco fuel.

Hannah B on June 15, 2021

Yes to a ford explorer you will love it.

My ford explorer is actually a really good vehicle! It is really good on king car drives and cruising around town or to and from work. Its kid friendly I fit two car seats in it perfectly and still have a third row for people. It has a good sized trunk and the back seats flip down so it makes it bigger. Would totally recommend this vehicle and it is pretty good on gas.

Bri R on June 9, 2021

Ford explorer good family car, very spacious, and comfortable for long rides.

My vehicle is honestly a very reliable car but I feel like it is such a gas guzzler to be honest, but other than that the comfort level of this car while driving is without speaking. It is a good overall car but I just may be ready for something different now.

Hanna G on June 3, 2021

Comfortable, spacious vehicle that is safe and efficient.

The explorer is really easy to drive. It has three-rows of seating, which makes it easy to fit a lot of people in the car. It is great for traveling, because the gas mileage is excellent. I love this vehicle because I have never had any problems. Fixing it is expensive, however.

Carlene C on June 1, 2021

Fits a large family and can pull a small camper.

Great car!! 3 row for the whole family to sit comfortable. It can pull a small travel trailer and is great on gas. I use it for work and play. We travel out of state with it and my family of 5 and 5 dogs fit great in there. The only thing I would change is the speakers in the back. The people sitting in the back complain they can't hear the radio.

Zach J on May 15, 2021

Excellent car. Cannot beat reliability.

This car has great gas mileage. Plenty of space for cargo. Very comfortable. Sleek style it is one of my favorite cars I have driven. It is my first car with cloth seats but I enjoy it better than leather. The brakes are another good part of this car. It is a very safe car for all ages of drivers.

Alishia G on May 13, 2021

Looking forward to 2021 explorer.

It does what you want. And then some. Explorer limited hybrid. Gas and electric meet to create a performance-first hybrid SUV. Post-collision braking. Lessens the severity of a potential secondary collision. Available reverse brake assist. Side-wind stabilization. 10-speed transmission.

Alissa P on May 8, 2021

Great car but difficult with multiple car seats.

It needs a bigger trunk and better access to the third row. I have multiple car seats and they can be difficult to access. I literally have to climb into the second row in order to reach the far seat in the third row. Also, we have had some issues with the check engine light coming on and something in the fuel line giving us trouble at times. Otherwise, it is a great vehicle and meets our needs.

Alicia M on April 25, 2021

2014 ford explorer limited edition.

I absolutely love the heated seats. My car has heated seats in both front seats and also has 2 heated seats in back. I love my sunroof and my moon roof. I have 3 kids so the 3 row seats are very convenient. I have not had any issues with this vehicle. I love the seat settings that you can program for driver seat also.

Nick A on April 14, 2021

2014 ford explorer. Interior door trim becomes loose.

The vehicle has an issue where the door trim will become to hot under direct sunlight and the glue holding it to the door will melt. This makes the door trim become undone and loose. Sticking up from the door. It looks cheap, and is a poor design. Ford needs to use better glue for its interior trim pieces.

April E on April 12, 2021

Good performance for an SUV.

I love the performance of the engine. Really has a lot of get up and go. My only complaint is the headrest does not fit me right as a short person. Of course that is not the manufacturer’s fault, just something to think about if you considering this vehicle.

Angela C on April 12, 2021

My ford explorer is a good vehicle that has the features that I need.

In the beginning I had problems in which the brakes were not holding and the battery was always dying but once I got that fixed it has been good. It has a moonroof, DVD system, leather seats and a 3 seater. It is silver with beige interior and I love driving it.

Jorge p on April 4, 2021

Nothing really, it performs very well and I have not had any issues with it

No complaints, love the vehicle, I would buy another one

Stacy S on April 1, 2021

So smooth you not notice your speed.

The ford explorer is great for long trips. It is very comfortable and has double ac controls. This SUV is perfect for tailgating anywhere the back seat is reversible and that is the reason it is great for tailgate. The only flaw it has is that it drives so smoothly that you do not notice when you are speeding.

Cynthia S on April 1, 2021

Ford Explorer-big vehicle and big package.

I have had my vehicle for about a year now. I absolutely love it. My 3rd row seats fold completely flat which is great for when I need to do a lot of shopping or trips. One down side to such a big SUV is the cost of gas. Also during the summer the glue that kept the driver side panel down came unglued because it was so hot so I need to fix it soon.

Angela C on April 1, 2021

Seats 7 front and back climate control.

I love my Ford Explorer. It has a smooth ride. It has front and back climate control to keep everyone happy. It seats 7 people. I can put the back row seats down and haul things. Stereo system is great. For its size the gas mileage is not bad. My Explorer has a sunroof/moonroof. I enjoy sitting and gazing at the stars.

charles R on March 31, 2021

My wife fell in love with it when we went to check it out. Impulse purchase.

Had to replace the turbocharger and catalytic converter last year. Cost me 3,600 for the turbo other part was covered under warranty also had to replace the screen. All 3 repairs happened at the same time I paid for 2 of the 3 repairs. Prior to that it had to recall repairs.

Kemian C on March 30, 2021

My car is reliable and I love the sync feature.

Vehicle is pretty sturdy in year 5. Haven't had in major problems. Only thing I've really had to change was the tires. The engine and heater aren't always in sync but that may just be the weather. It's very comfortable even when at max capacity. I also really enjoy the sync feature, because I listen to things off my phone most of the time.

Gage M on March 30, 2021

Good vehicle as long as you maintain its mechanical and electrical parts.

The ford explorer is a very comfortable ride with good performance; however, 6 years later the alternator power surged and caused a computer error and it has been acting up ever since. Do not get me wrong, love my vehicle, but just make sure you keep it maintained or it will have performance and electronic issues. I hope to soon get a newer model explorer because the reviews I have seen on them are more positive than the 2014 model.

Brian P on March 28, 2021

Large, safe reliable vehicle.

The ford explorer is a very reliable vehicle. After 87,000 miles we haven't had to do any major repairs to it. The vehicle is very quiet and comfortable and is great in the snow! There's plenty of storage for our family, it fits car seats and all your gear with ease. With the 3rd row up the 'trunk' is sunken in making a perfect spot to place groceries where they won't fall over.

Angela W on March 27, 2021

Navigation and backup camera. Blind spot sensor.

It is very comfortable. 3rd row seating. Heated and cooled seats in the front and back. It has navigation and Bluetooth. Has a feature that tells you if you go outside of the lines on the road. Back up cameras. I haven't had any problems out of the car yet.

Donna B on March 27, 2021

Best all around SUV. Family car and a workhorse.

I love the amount of space that is available. Even with the third row up there is room in the trunk. The car drives smoothly and has a beautiful interior. I do wish there was more adjustment available on the second row as it can be difficult to fit car seats in rear facing. I do love that the rear seats get their own heating and cooling though and that it can be adjusted from the back seat.

Ian R on March 24, 2021

Some minor issues with the dash, and sync.

The car is made well. The interior has held up very well throughout the years. The sync system in this car is difficult and requires resting often and does not work well with siri. The reliability has been very good and starts every time even in the cold. The dash does tend to make the interior of the windscreen cloudy and hard to see a night and in direct sunlight.

Kristen R on March 23, 2021

Great family car for my family of four is fits us very well

I love my Ford Explorer. It gets great gas mileage for what I use it for and I feel like it came with so many extras.

Tamika H on March 22, 2021

Do not be afraid to explore with the explorer!

Wonderful vehicle. Very reliable. I have had it for five years and it has not had any major issues outside of cautionary recalls. It is good on gas and the features are easy to use. Spacious and great for families and soccer moms. The easy access third row always comes in handy for road trips and commuting. Excellent leg room for adults in the front and back. I love the option to drive in automatic and also manually. This vehicle is great for all types of weather. Especially in the snow. Although it is a big body vehicle it picks up speed swiftly and decreases speed quickly as well. This is an all around great car and I would recommend it to anyone.

Chloe A on March 22, 2021

It's an average car which suits my needs

This car is a good all round drive. I'm a mom and what I like about it is plentiful room for storage i can change the seating layout. But it's hard to get kids in and out of and uses a lot of gas

Mike B on March 22, 2021

Creature Comforts with heated seats and steering wheel and AC seats.

The Limited has a lot of features, is very comfortable to drive and pulls my boat with ease. I have not had any major issues with the car other than typical wear. It is very comfortable for long trips and the back seats are great for hauling and comfortable ride.

John I on March 21, 2021

Black ford explorer, 2014.

My car has been very low maintenance and has more room than my previous vehicles. I can easily commute with other co-workers to and from work without feeling cramped in the car. The gas mileage is average, about 22 miles to the gallon. I general drive on the interstate only, and don't’ drive off road that often. However, when I do drive off road the convenient options to change the drive mode (like dirt, sand, snow, etc.) Is a helpful feature and makes me feel better and safety when driving. I also enjoy the fact the car is a little higher up than my previous car, which helps me feel more safe. The rear facing camera is also great and I use it every day. I have had a little to know problems so far (I currently have around 90,000 miles on the car) and have only had to change the back tail out when it stopped turning on. I have had no additional issues with the car.

Carrie B on March 20, 2021

It is an excellent purchase and as long as you maintain vehicle, it will last.

Custom made with leather seats. Quite roomy, drives smooth and is comfortable. My chief complaint would be I do not have a sunroof. Other than that it is wonderful. I can 'tow my teardrop trailer and it is gas efficient.

Samuel O on March 20, 2021

My car is ford explorer and I love it because the parts are original.

My car is ford explorer. I love my car because I have never seen a car like that before in my entire life. The car is fast and the parts are original. The brakes are sharp and it has never failed me since the day I bought the car. The tires are thick and they go smoothly on the ground.

Janelle W on March 20, 2021

Great vehicle, efficient, reliable, and spacious.

I really love the 2014 ford explorer with ecoboost. It is a higher fuel efficiency model, the best efficiency of any year in fact and I am very thankful for how reliable and efficient it is. The turning radius is very impressive and we live in a very mountainous rough terrain and it never has any problems. It is comfortable, spacious and gets us to our desired destination without problems or setbacks.

Dawn M on March 19, 2021

Great for vacation. Reliable. Good on gas.

I have never had any issues with this vehicle. I have over 150,000 miles on this truck. I was rear ended right after purchase and sustained very little damage and felt completely safe. The kids love the TVs in the back and it is a perfect vehicle for vacation.

Hannah C on March 19, 2021

Very comfy cozy mama ride.

It's an amazing vehicle. I've never had any problems with it and it drives like a dream. Very reliable. Never had issues with anything. Very comfy and cozy and a lot of space for kids and trunk space also. It doesn't have a lot of special features. But it's very nice and I wouldn't trade it in. I love my ford explorer.

addy m on March 17, 2021

It is safe in collisions. Had an Explorer previous to this one and everyone was on their own row and survived the totaled vehicle.

I love that it has three rows of seating. I love my sunroof. The back up camera is big enough. I dislike the exhaust issue it had and I had to try to live with for a while. I love the safety of the vehicle.

Kristin C on March 15, 2021

The Ford Explorer SUV is very comfortable and reliable

This vehicle is Too big and sucks gas. Very comfortable however. Love the room it has

Brian W on March 15, 2021

Good deal for the price! Ford taking cues from Land Rover for the new explorer.

Leather seats are durable, but interior ripped easily. I with it showed tire pressure in number rather than just saying “low”. Reliable, ok gas mileage, good ground clearance! I like the newer body shape of the explorers, like that of Land Rover. Makes it look like a quality automobile! Good quality for the price. Also, I love the moonroof. The paint has healed up well, even though I do a lot of off road adventures.

Paul F on March 13, 2021

Good driving car and comfortable. Good on gas mileage

Not enough cubby holes for misc stuff. Third seat won't adjust. Very good driving car. Love the backup camera

Jimmy L on March 11, 2021

Explore reviews 2014 through 2019.

Sunroof stopped working. No other issues. Gas mileage runs good. Plenty of room. Looks good. Has a lot of pick up goes fast plenty of room nice stereo system nice tires and wheels paint is in good shape had issue with transmission kicking in and out of gear for no reason not sure about the issue but this has been a consistent problem.

Kristi B on March 10, 2021

If you tend to lug a lot of things around, the explorer is amazing.

It was bought used and tends to hum as it is being driven. Nice amount of trunk space: can fit a lawnmower inside with no problem. Leather seats, with seat warmers in front. Back seats can be lowered. The tests can be adjusted to your liking, especially up front.

Elizabeth D on March 10, 2021

Talked into buying explorer.

It rides smoothly!! I did not want an explorer my husband talked me into it. The inside is roomy and it has a nice look as well, this vehicle has not given me any problems. Mostly all we do is change the oil, and keep it up, other than that it is all we do for maintenance.

Angelica A on March 8, 2021

2014 ford explorer pros/cons.

As far as the physical, it is very spacious and convenient. The rear ac is a plus as well as the heated/ac seats. It is decent on gas, however, mechanically it has proven to have some issues. There are constant recalls, the ac temperature is not consistent, the transmission has never shifted correctly.

Tiffany O on March 7, 2021

Good look and power, but numerous recalls and expensive replacement needs.

The Explorer looks good and seems to be reliable. The best part is the great speed pick up after 40 mph. You can feel the power and the steering at that speed is very tight. I have had some issues with numerous essential recalls such as the carbon monoxide issue & door panels. Recently I have replaced all brakes and still have grinding-they say that is normal but it didn't do that before. I also had to pay for an expensive heating part replacement recently that seems to be common in the Explorer.

Jana R on March 7, 2021

Ford explorer- the good and the bad. From a girl who knows nothing of cars.

Favorite vehicle. It is reliable and comfortable. Love the heated seats, sunroof, and 3rd row seating, smart screen, and captain chairs in the second row. Wish it had easy open trunk, power memory seats. The hood is very hard to open and to lock back into place.

Courtney F on March 7, 2021

Ford explorer is the way to go!

My SUV is spectacular. It has never had any major problems that needed repair. We just have the typical maintenance as with all cars. It has been extremely reliable for our family of 6. We love the bucket middle seats leading to a 3rd row bench seat. The added seat warmers and air control for passengers really makes long trips a little easier.

Nicole G on March 5, 2021

2014 ford explorer vs edge.

I preferred my ford edge over the explorer I have had to put a lot of money into the maintenance at 75000. Third row seat sticks. I do like the auto lift gate and the blue tooth. It is not a bad car. Just not what I was hoping. Probably will go back to edge.

Evan W on March 3, 2021

Great Audio, great performance; 10/10 would recommend.

The only issue I have had with my Explorer is freon-related. I feel safe and secure driving the vehicle, it drives smoothly and reacts well. I love the backup camera feature. The touch screen display and navigation need improvements, as do the Bluetooth and USB connections. That being said, the Audio quality is fantastic and you can get some very nice bass if you adjust the levels properly. Overall, this is a vehicle I would recommend to others.

Christi C on February 28, 2021

When on cruise my husband likes the way it slows down.

Very comfortable and so far runs good but I did buy it used. Now in less than 6 months I have to take care of a gasket in the exhaust but my biggest complaint is getting into the car. The floor is a deep well and it's hard to get in and out. Maybe because I am only 5'4'? My husband does not think there is a problem. I hate this so much I want to sell it.

Rosemary O on February 28, 2021

Likes and dislikes of the Explorer.

Acceleration takes a bit long. I do love the space especially on the passenger side. Maybe a little more trunk space would be nice. And passenger side seat is way too low for my preference compared to the driver's side. Has enough charging ports for phones or tablets.

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.