Avoid: 2020, 2017, 2016, 2013, 2003, 2002, 2000 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2010 · Best recent: 2019
24 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 31 model years, the Ford Explorer has 37,520 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 350 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and structure. 2002 drew the most complaints (7,244), 2009 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (33).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Ford Explorer vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $15,520–$26,999.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 39 |
| 2025 | 104 |
| 2024 | 27 |
| 2023 | 112 |
| 2022 | 270 |
| 2021 | 449 |
| 2020 | 1,233 |
| 2019 | 299 |
| 2018 | 734 |
| 2017 | 1,706 |
| 2016 | 2,481 |
| 2015 | 1,807 |
| 2014 | 1,679 |
| 2013 | 2,235 |
| 2012 | 829 |
| 2011 | 1,196 |
| 2010 | 115 |
| 2009 | 33 |
| 2008 | 148 |
| 2007 | 208 |
| 2006 | 635 |
| 2005 | 568 |
| 2004 | 1,408 |
| 2003 | 2,626 |
| 2002 | 7,244 |
| 2001 | 765 |
| 2000 | 1,133 |
| 1999 | 1,568 |
| 1998 | 2,248 |
| 1997 | 1,981 |
| 1996 | 1,640 |
Highest: 2002 (7,244 complaints). Lowest: 2009 (33).
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The current-generation Explorer (2020+) is frequently praised for its spacious interior, particularly the generous cargo and third-row space, comfortable ride, and strong performance in ST and Platinum trims.
Includes rough shifting, laggy response, complete failure, and concerns about longevity. Noted as a weak point across the model line, with failures occurring at both low and high mileage.
Reports of engines overheating, internal flooding, and repeated catalytic converter failures requiring multiple replacements.
Broad statements about Ford reliability being "average to below average," with specific mentions of expensive repairs and the need for significant maintenance budgets.
Isolated reports of intermittent electrical problems, particularly in older models (e.g., 1994, 2013).
Mention of a technical service bulletin for exhaust smell entering the cabin during hard driving, and potential PTU vent odor in all-wheel-drive models.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Explorer. Individual model years are broken down above.
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