Ever since the Ford Explorer was introduced back in 1991, it has been one of Ford's best-selling vehicles. However, buying one today requires some due diligence as drivers reported certain Ford Explorer years to avoid due to their common issues.
The Explorer has one of the largest datasets of complaints about its model years, thanks to its extended history of manufacturing. So, we'll help you by portraying the best and worst Ford Explorer years ranked based on NHTSA submissions, consumer ratings, and official recalls to help you identify the worst ones to avoid.
How we rated the best and worst Ford Explorer years
Ranking the Ford Explorer years by best and worst wasn’t easy, so our team first started compiling data from renowned sources like NHTSA. We found out about the major complaints drivers were experiencing and have used that to learn about the most common issues.
Of course, we also relied on genuine driving experiences and reports provided through sites like Cars.com, Edmunds, KBB, and Consumer Reports. Our final ingredients were popular Ford Explorer forum threads and safety ratings of various Explorer years, and we used all of those for our final assessments. Since models before 2002 didn’t have any major issues and the vehicle has been produced for more than 30 years, we’ll start with the third generation:
| Ford Explorer Generation | Best Ford Explorer Years | Worst Ford Explorer Years |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd generation | N/A | 2002, 2003, 2004 |
| 4th generation | 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 | 2006 |
| 5th generation | 2019 | N/A |
Most common Ford Explorer problems
The chances of finding a Ford Explorer from the first generation today are slim, but you should pass it up if it does. The Ford Explorer from the 2002 to 2006 model years is one of the worst used car purchases a buyer can make when all of these issues are considered, and we’ll discuss the common problems that plagued this one, as well as other problematic Explorer generations.
1. Transmission problems
Different transmission issues were reportedly present in the 2002, 2004, and 2007 model years. The worst part is that the problems can start early. The transmission in the 2006 model reportedly lunged and jerked violently when shifting.
Hard shifting, slipping out of gear, and deadly failure are other transmission faults associated with earlier Ford Explorer models (the transmission stops working). Therefore, before making payments on a used Ford Explorer, it is crucial to inspect the transmission carefully. You should leave the inspection to a trusted mechanic who knows what transmission slipping feels like, just to be safe.
2. Cracked body panel paint issues
The rear body panel (just below the rear window) begins to break after a certain number of miles, which was the most frequently reported problem with the 2004 Ford Explorer. This problem, which recurred multiple times, was experienced by over 1,000 owners of the 2004 Ford Explorer model.
Many folks who experienced this problem found a solution by changing the rear panel. While they waited for a recall, a few others vowed never to purchase another Ford Explorer.
3. Problems with wheels and wheel hubs
The 2004, 2006, and 2010 models came with serious wheel and hub issues. In some situations, wheel bearings also failed which often led to improper control and stability.
According to reports, the wheels and hub of many Ford Explorer vehicles made in the years above failed early. The 2003 Explorer XLT 4.0L V6 model had the most recorded wheel hub issues.
Most consumers who encountered these problems were left with no choice except to overhaul their wheels and replace their hubs.
4. Problems with the drivetrain
Despite having a rather sturdy drivetrain, Ford Explorers are nevertheless subject to complaints. The drivetrain reportedly begins to fail after some miles, primarily on the 2002 model.
Rear differential whining, rear differential leaks, 4x4 won’t engage, and other difficulties of a similar nature are among the most often reported drivetrain issues with the 2002 Ford Explorer.
5. Engine problems
The first and second-generation models’ engines had several issues, including symptoms of a bad timing chain, sensor, and complete engine failure.
The most severe engine issues tend to show up as these SUVs age, and fixing them isn’t cheap.
Worst Ford Explorer years to avoid
In general, the Ford Explorer SUV’s initial model years were plagued by several problems. Owners of specific Explorer models on various platforms brought these issues up. So, by now, you must be wondering - what are the worst Ford Explorer years?
The worst Ford Explorer years are by far 2002 and 2004, but here’s a complete list:
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2006
Our team will help you gain a better understanding of why that’s the case, so we’ll consider all those model years in-depth with their common problems in mind.
Third-generation Explorer (2002-2005 model years)
Due to an incredible 3,295 NHTSA complaints, the most of any Explorer year, the 2002 Ford Explorer has been regarded as one of the worst Explorer models ever produced. It had a serious transmission problem that could require costly repairs. A wheel bearing problem also developed.
Owners also reported the panel under the back window cracking. Although the charges listed may be the worst-case scenario, consider that costs vary depending on the problem’s seriousness.
A transmission problem existed in the 2003 Ford Explorer, which the firm had failed to address and which many customers found to be growingly worrisome.
The transmission issue was reportedly the subject of a lot of complaints, which were all made about this particular car type. For example, the gearbox frequently failed, slipped, or missed, which resulted in some terrible incidents for the driver who experienced this difficulty.
The model experienced troubles with the engine, the rear window panel breaking, the A/C and heater, and other things. Like the 2002 model, similar problems also began to surface as the miles added up. Furthermore, many people lost faith in the company due to the car’s persistent transmission problem.
Following suit, the 2004 Ford Explorer also had a window panel cracking problem, and it drew 1,304 NHTSA complaints overall.
Unexpectedly, owners said the vehicle also had a paint corrosion problem.
The paint often began to peel off early. Like its predecessors, this car also had a transmission issue; over time, it became difficult for the driver to shift into reverse.
The car’s braking system and engine suffered from numerous serious gearbox problems. The car exhibited aberrant acceleration and deceleration, abrupt braking, and sudden acceleration.
Fourth-generation Explorer (2006 model year)
Although this model had a redesign, it needed to improve its ability to address the fundamental problems of the vehicle, which continued to plague all owners.
The 2006 Ford Explorer drew 630 NHTSA complaints, and owners reported gearbox problems and broken radiators.
The problem with the transmission deteriorated to the point where it kept coming back.
What are the best Ford Explorer years to buy?
The remaining model years of the Ford Explorer are an excellent buy, excluding the years designated as unreliable versions. This contains more recent models like the 2019 and some older versions from 2007 to 2010.
With the proper maintenance, these Ford Explorer models are the best years to buy:
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2019
Except for the 2006 model year, none of the fourth-generation cars have received many complaints. Once the fifth generation was introduced in 2011, transmission issues became less of a problem.
Ford Explorers from the fifth and sixth generations have drawn more complaints and recalls, though: the 2013, 2016 and 2020 each have over 1,000 NHTSA complaints, and the 2020 has 34 recalls, so check the recall history carefully. The best model overall is the 2009 one.
2009 Ford Explorer
Among the best-rated models of the Explorer, the 2009 one stands out, especially among the ones produced during the 2000s. While more recent options like 2019 and 2020 are pretty safe themselves, this one established itself as possibly the only model from 2000 to 2019 without any major issues or complaints.
Drivers often choose it due to decent engine options and a dependable transmission, while the only few reported issues were related to the electric system, ECU, and interior accessories and their performance.
If you’re shopping for one with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, see our 3.5 EcoBoost problems and years to avoid for the engine’s worst years, recalls and service bulletins.
Is the Ford Explorer worth buying?
The good news is that there are still several secure and dependable model years to pick from if you’re interested in purchasing a used Ford Explorer.
Most of the models sold during the fourth generation (2006–2010) have only had a small number of issues reported.
Just be careful to omit the 2006 model if you’re considering the fourth-generation Explorer options.
Ford Explorer transmission issues were no longer a significant issue in 2011.
When it comes to upgrades, the 2013 Ford Explorer stands out from the competition. The luxurious and roomy inside, on-the-road solid performance, and outstanding high-tech features are only a few amazing qualities.
A four-cylinder turbocharged engine and excellent fuel efficiency are further benefits for owners. Additionally, the 2013 model scored exceptionally well regarding crash test safety, but it also drew over 2,000 NHTSA complaints, so check its history carefully. The model years 2010 and 2019 are other noteworthy ones.
Furthermore, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great engine and exceptional amenities. If you take care of the car, it can be your best buddy.
Additionally, it may function as a typical daily commuting SUV, and its powerful engine can let you haul hefty loads and move heavy luggage.
Curious about the years to steer clear of? Our comprehensive guides like the Mazda CX-9 years to avoid, Toyota Highlander years to avoid, and Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid pinpoint the years you might want to stay clear of. With our guidance, you’re equipped to navigate the car buying landscape with the confidence that stems from insightful, trustworthy advice.
What’s the worst year for a Ford Explorer?
From 2002 through 2005, the entire third generation of the Explorer had a lot of complaints. At NHTSA, complaints range from 497 for the 2005 to a high of 3,295 for the 2002.
What years did the Ford Explorer have transmission problems?
The 5R55-series automatic transmission used in the third-generation Ford Explorer from 2002 to 2005 frequently became quite unreliable as the miles added up.