2019 Ford Explorer: common problems and reliability

The 2019 Ford Explorer has 281 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are structure and power train. Owners most often flag transmission reliability problems — 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. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2019 model year

281
Owner complaints
5
Recalls
2
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2019 Ford Explorer vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

structure
142
power train
34
electrical system
19
engine
18
fuel/propulsion system
13

Recalls affecting the 2019 Explorer

structure:body

Campaign 21V316000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Explorer vehicles. The retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle.

seats:front assembly:recliner

Campaign 19V633000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped w…

structure:body:roof and pillars

Campaign 24V031000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles. The A-pillar trim retention clips may not be properly engaged, allowing the trim to detach.

equipment:electrical:engine block heater

Campaign 26V012000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater i…

What owners say across generations

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. T

  • Transmission reliability problems — 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. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Engine and cooling system problems — Reports of engines overheating, internal flooding, and repeated catalytic converter failures requiring multiple replacements. Frequency: recurrent.
  • General reliability concerns — Broad statements about Ford reliability being "average to below average," with specific mentions of expensive repairs and the need for significant maintenance budgets. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Electrical issues — Isolated reports of intermittent electrical problems, particularly in older models (e.g., 1994, 2013). Frequency: isolated.
  • Exhaust/Power Transfer Unit (PTU) odor — 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. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Explorer.

Typical used price

Used Explorer listings typically run $29,360–$51,264 across 2015 to 2026 model years.

Other Explorer model years

2024 Explorer2018 Explorer2016 Explorer2011 Explorer2006 Explorer2003 Explorer2002 Explorer1999 Explorer1996 Explorer
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