Are Ford Explorers high maintenance?
Ford Explorers are not inherently high-maintenance; routine upkeep is generally in line with other midsize SUVs, and total ownership costs depend on the model year, engine choice, and how well the vehicle is maintained.
What affects maintenance costs
Maintenance costs for the Explorer hinge on three main factors: the generation or model year, the engine and drivetrain, and how diligently the vehicle is serviced. Here are the key considerations owners should track.
- Engine and powertrain choices: The Explorer has offered engines ranging from efficient turbocharged four-cylinders to V6 options and turbocharged variants in higher trims. Each has its own maintenance profile and parts costs.
- Drivetrain configuration: Front-wheel drive versus all-wheel drive (or 4x4 for rugged use) can influence component wear, tire costs, and maintenance routines.
- Regular service cadence: Oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid checks are routine across all versions and heavily influence long-term costs.
- Preventive maintenance versus repairs: Proactive maintenance (coolant, transmission fluid service per manual, battery health checks) tends to reduce the odds of expensive repairs later.
- Electrical and infotainment systems: Some model years have reported software glitches or electrical gremlins; keeping software updated and addressing recalls promptly helps minimize disruption.
- Age and mileage: As with any vehicle, higher mileage increases the likelihood of wear items needing replacement (brakes, tires, suspension parts, etc.).
- Maintenance location: Dealer service can be convenient but often costs more than independent shops. A capable shop familiar with Ford SUVs can help contain costs.
Keeping up with these routine tasks on schedule commonly keeps Explorer ownership affordable and minimizes major repairs.
Reliability and model-year considerations
The Explorer’s reliability profile has evolved across generations. Here is a concise overview of what tends to vary by era and how that informs maintenance planning.
- Older generations (1990s–early 2000s): These models are more prone to transmission and suspension wear as they age, so buyers should scrutinize service history and look for a clean record of transmission maintenance and component replacements.
- 2011–2019 redesign: This generation brought modernized electronics and updated powertrains, generally improving reliability. However, some owners report brake wear, infotainment glitches, and occasional transmission hesitation in heavy use; thorough maintenance history matters here.
- 2020–present models: Built on a newer platform with updated engines and systems, these Explorers tend to offer solid reliability for a modern SUV. Still, some owners have noted electronic/software issues with the SYNC system and occasional electrical quirks; routine software updates and recalls addressed by dealers help mitigate these problems.
Overall, a well-maintained Explorer from any generation can provide dependable service comparable to peers in its class. When shopping used, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection that focuses on transmission health, braking components, suspension, and the electronics suite is especially valuable.
Summary
Bottom line: Ford Explorers are not universally high-maintenance. Regular maintenance tailored to the specific engine and model year is the key to controlling costs. Newer models generally spare owners from many of the older-generation reliability concerns, while older Explorers benefit from careful maintenance history. Prospective buyers should weigh model-year notes, inspect maintenance records, and address recalls promptly to keep ownership predictable and affordable.
