It is a ride that can take you anywhere and get you back safely. Surprisingly, the 2004 Ford Explorer was the subject of five recalls and over 1,200 NHTSA complaints. The models listed below are the versions of the vehicle that you may want to steer clear of. Also, during the side impact test, the drivers door popped open. A couple of hiccups with my 2002 Explorer. More on that in a bit. Performing thorough research is probably the key if you dont want to get a lemon vehicle. The years to avoid are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005. Web2007 Ford Explorer 4.0 Engine. Research, compare, and save listings, or contact sellers directly from 4 2017 Explorer models in There is a ton of cheap plastic used on this model. "@type": "Question", So, simply avoid those to get a better experience. Source: gtcarlot.com. That was in the past. These years saw a variety of complaints, from 827 in 2005 to a high of 3,956 in 2002. . National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). As the SUV approaches the 100,000-mile mark, a variety of symptoms appear, including a blinking overdrive warning light and a clunking noise. You should leave the inspection to a trusted mechanic that knows what transmission slipping feels like, just to be safe. It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. The drivers seat doesn't go back or fourth its jammed. These have the most reports for problems on carcomplaints.com. "acceptedAnswer": { Engine problems with the 4.0L V6 were also reported, namely failures, and blown head gaskets. "@context": "https://schema.org", We would not recommend looking for this model year if you are inexperienced in the used car market. YoullYoull notice that the third generation models made between 2002 and 2006 produced the highest number of problems. Zayn John Zayn Smith is a passionate truck enthusiast, writer, and expert in the automotive industry. A $500 repair was necessary when the panel under the back window cracked, which typically happens about 80,000 miles. However, not all of its models are purchase-worthy. Very few issues have been reported with the majority of the models sold during the first generation (19911994), second generation (19952001), fourth generation (20062010), fifth generation (20112019), and sixth generation (2020present). In terms of engines, we can say that there were two engine options. Elaine is an insurance writer, speechwriter, and screenwriter. Furthermore, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV that occasionally has a great engine and exceptional amenities. This SUV became even more affordable, In todays world, a 2002-2005 used Ford Explorer usually will go for a little under $5K. Wheel bearings, tranny, door controls. Many car drivers claimed that the transmission frequently failed, the gears occasionally even leaped without warning, and they were sometimes exceedingly challenging to change. CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. The armrest on drivers door has split seams and it seems like I've had to work on brakes multiple times since I've owned it. The 2011 model? The explorer has plenty of storage and a durable towing and hauling rating. year to help you gain confidence about one of your largest purchase decisions. Download the. TrueCar has 305 used Ford Explorer models for sale in Mapleton, UT, including a Ford Explorer Limited 4WD and a Ford Explorer XLT The wheelbase stayed the same at 113.7 inches and an overall length of 192.4 inches. "@type": "Answer", Just make sure you skip the 2006 model if youre looking at the Explorer's fourth-generation options. Nowadays the Explorer is really popular when it comes to government fleet vehicles and greatly replaced the good old Ford Victoria Police Interceptor as well as the Ford Taurus. Its not only important to choose the right vehicle for your familys lifestyle, but its also crucial to get the right coverage to fit your driving needs. The main problems of the 2016 Ford Explorer are the following: Related: 8 Most Common Ford Explorer Problems (Explained). Though the newer models arent as bad as the 2002 version, theres still been over 3,000 transmission complaints. So, if you want something more reliable, always go for a model that is less prone to issues." The luxurious and roomy inside, on-the-road solid performance, and outstanding high-tech features are only a few amazing qualities. A few minor problems with my 2002 Explorer. Ford Explorers Worst Years Are Marked by Failed Transmission, Possible Carbon Monoxide Leak. The reliability of the 2006 and 2007 models is rather poor. The worst model years of the Ford Explorer are 2020, 2013 to 2017, 2011, 2006, 2002, 2003, and 2004, and those that were produced between 1996 and 2000. During the past 11 or 12 years, the Explorer has experienced very few significant problems. There are hundreds of models and each of these has different generations and each one of them has different problems. 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. With only 80 miles it broke down for no reason in the middle of a road. We would advise you to go for the 4.6L V8 with manual possibly if you want something more reliable. Now in its sixth generation, the first-ever four-door SUV produced by Ford is roaring louder than ever with a commanding exterior design, a powerful engine and updated electronics. So, if you want something less of a headache, these will be the ones. The NHTSA issued 14 recalls, most fairly minor. It has remained a reliable vehicle that many buyers have fallen in love with. Jeep Wrangler / Tj Unlimited Insurance Cost, Toyota Tacoma Prerunner Access Cab Insurance Cost. What is important with this model is that mainly retained the specs from the previous generation. The drivetrain reportedly begins to fail after some miles, primarily on the 2002 model. These model years have the most reports on More on that in a bit. But still, we are going to cover these generations and learn more about them in the following chapters. Fuel economy for this model is well above par, whether you choose the gas-only or hybrid option. Allowing the implementation of new technologies made this model far more reliable. What Are The Best Alternatives To The Ford Explorer? 2018 and 2019 have the least reports from any model year. Overall, this is just one of the more unreliable used Ford Explorer SUV years worth avoiding. Cons: Less-than-impressive handling. 4.14 Owner Reviews 195 Models & And of course, most dealt with transmission } This one, in particular, began to exhibit symptoms at about 75,000 miles and required a $450$500 repair, depending on the severity of the problem. Most of the model years produced have recorded few complaints. And Ford Explorers from the 2004 model year often surprised owners with a cracked panel below the rear window. Come find a great deal on used Ford Explorer in Salem today! 2013 Explorer has poor quality headlights. I couldnt believe how smooth the explorer was, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and luggage room.. The 2006 Explorer had a total of 776 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 719 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. When it comes to problems, there were some issues reported with the transmission, even though it is a 10-speed, it simply does not work well with the car and people claim that shifts come rather not as smooth as they should. No idea how it happened. In other words, it has so many issues that you cannot have a day of rest from this car and you just cant wait to get rid of it. I had to replace some power steering mechanisms, the low profile tires do have a short lifespan. Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year! When it rains it will shut off at random. But what about the Ford Explorer years to avoid? 2002 Ford Explorer. "text": "When it comes to the best year, we would recommend going for a 2018 or 2019 model year. Radiator leaks could pop up after about 60,000 miles. There are several Ford Explorer model years, both old and new, that have received numerous complaints through the years. Also, the weight is pretty much the same, ranging from 4,345lbs to 4,727lbs. In 1991, the first Ford Explorer was introduced, and since then, it has been one of Fords vehicles with the longest production runs. The 2013 Explorer had a total of 506 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,932 problems at CarProblemZoo.com. And they also tend to have transmission issues, and sensor issues. A 3.5L V6 and a 3.7L V6 EcoBoost engine options. I am in the market for my first car, but I want to get all my finances figured out before I get ahead of myself. The 2019 Ford Explorer captured a 4.3 out of 5.0 review rating on Kelley Blue Book and bagged a rating of 4.2 out of 5.0 over at Edmunds. In this article, well provide you with all the knowledge you need about the Ford Explorer model years to avoid. It tends to fade. Hey all, I'm working on buying my first Explorer. Here Are The Ford Explorer Years To Avoid, dealer refuses to cancel your extended warranty, CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars, Here Are The Chevy Avalanche Years To Avoid, The Top 3 Least and Most Reliable Car Brands, The Most Common Problems with Used Ford Explorers (And Which Year Models to Avoid), Nissan Frontier Towing Capacity: What To Know. In terms of transmissions, this model includes the 10-speed Ford automatic. Common problems, best years, as well as the Ford Explorer years to avoid. The only big problems I have had so far is some suspension trouble. Unexpectedly, owners said the vehicle also had a paint corrosion problem, with a typical repair bill of about $500. However, there are also a lot of great alternatives. The 2019 Ford Explorer may not be the best, but it should be considered one of the best value in terms of pricing and vehicle age. To learn more about the best and the worst of this iconic midsize SUV, continue reading. The tensioner fails and causes the chain to jump and fail. After extensive testing by the NHTSA, there is no clear evidence of an identifiable problem. "mainEntity": [{ Motor Verso is an automotive website; for car enthusiasts, run by car enthusiasts. The XLS, XLT, NBX, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. Below is a list of the most problematic Ford Explorer models and some of the worst problems that they face., The 2002 Ford Explorer has recorded the highest number of complaints since the SUV was launched into the market in 1991 and should be avoided. The 2016 model has a ton of problems with throttle body failures. Users save an average of over $800 a year. Best Dodge Challenger Years: Best & Worst Years (Is It Reliable? With CoPilot, you'll save time, money, and frustration. The main problems of the 2006 Ford Explorer are the following: Transmission issues plagued these three model years with thousands of Explorer owners leaving negative reviews, especially by those with mileage counts of around 100,000 miles, which is when a lot of issues arose. "text": "Yes, newer Ford Explorer models are really reliable vehicles. Which is the 4.6L V8. There are way too many family vacations to plan to be overcharged every month by your car insurance. Hopefully, they will sort it out. 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