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).

Is 2019 a good year for the Explorer?

Across the 10 Explorer model years we track, complaint volume runs from 19 (2024) to 7,240 (2002). With 281 complaints, the 2019 Explorer sits belowthe model's median of 1,568.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

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…

  • 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.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Explorer. See the full Explorer owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

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

Other Explorer model years

Compare every Explorer year side by side to see how 2019 ranks against the rest.

Compare the Explorer against its rivals