Are Ford Explorers junk?
The Ford Explorer has been a staple in the SUV market for decades, but it has also faced its fair share of criticism. As an experienced auto service provider, I’ve worked on countless Ford Explorers over the years, and I’m here to provide an honest, balanced perspective on whether this popular SUV deserves its reputation—or the criticism it sometimes receives.
The Pros of Owning a Ford Explorer
Ford Explorers have been a favorite among families and adventurers alike for good reasons. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Spacious Interior: The Explorer offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for road trips or daily commutes
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, a trusted auto service provider with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I'm often asked about the reliability and quality of different vehicle models. One model that has come under scrutiny is the Ford Explorer. In this article, I'll provide a detailed analysis of the Ford Explorer and whether it can be considered "junk".
The Ford Explorer's Reputation
The Ford Explorer has been a popular SUV model for decades, but it has also faced its fair share of criticism over the years. Some have argued that the Explorer is prone to mechanical issues, poor build quality, and safety concerns. However, it's important to look at the facts and data to determine the true reliability of this vehicle.
Reliability and Mechanical Issues
According to data from reputable sources, the Ford Explorer has generally been considered a reliable vehicle, with average or above-average ratings in terms of predicted reliability and customer satisfaction. While there have been some specific issues reported, such as transmission problems or engine failures, these are not necessarily more prevalent in the Explorer compared to other SUV models in its class.
Safety Concerns
One area where the Ford Explorer has faced more scrutiny is in terms of safety. There have been some high-profile rollover incidents and concerns about the vehicle's stability, particularly in earlier model years. However, Ford has made significant improvements to the Explorer's design and safety features over the years, and the latest models have earned strong safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Conclusion
Based on the available evidence, it's difficult to categorize the Ford Explorer as "junk." While the vehicle has had its fair share of issues and criticisms over the years, it has also demonstrated solid reliability and safety performance, particularly in more recent model years. As with any vehicle, it's important to do your research, consider your specific needs and driving conditions, and make an informed decision. At Kevin's Autos, we're always happy to provide our expert advice and guidance to help our customers make the best choice for their automotive needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year is a good Ford Explorer?
2018 (Fifth Generation): For those wondering what the best year is to buy a used Ford Explorer, the 2018 and 2019 models are regarded as some of the best due to their advanced technology and dependability.
Why are Ford Explorers not selling?
This chassis was dubbed the cd6. The platform is shared with a Lincoln Aviator. Being a unibody chassis has a ton of advantages. Such as great driving characteristics.
At what mileage do Ford Explorers start having problems?
According to MotorBiscuit.com, the average Ford Explorer can last anywhere from 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles. SUV owners looking to surpass 200,000 miles will need to provide their vehicle with the proper care. This range could mean your vehicle lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
What is the biggest problem with the Ford Explorer?
The most significant issue with the Ford Explorer 2023 has been the recall of approximately 230,000 vehicles due to a faulty rear axle bolt. This defect can cause the vehicle to lose power and potentially roll away, posing serious safety risks.
Are Ford Explorers high maintenance?
A Ford Explorer will cost about $9,329 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular SUV models by $1,079.
What year is the most reliable Ford Explorer?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
Generally, the fifth generation (2011-2019) is not only more welcoming than previous editions but usually more reliable, too. Within the current generation, we'd single out the 2023 Explorer for our list of recommended model years.
Are the Ford Explorers reliable?
The latest 2021 Ford Explorers have received a reliability rating of "Great" from JD Power and Associates in their Vehicle Dependability Studies. For the 2021 model year, ownership satisfaction skyrockets, with 96% of Ford Explorer owners recommending it according to cars.com.
What year of Ford Explorer is most reliable?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
Generally, the fifth generation (2011-2019) is not only more welcoming than previous editions but usually more reliable, too. Within the current generation, we'd single out the 2023 Explorer for our list of recommended model years.
Why do Ford Explorers have a bad reputation?
The Ford Explorer has a mixed record. RepairPal gives the Explorer a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which isn't bad considering the average rating for midsize SUVs is 3.8 stars. Still, several years are notorious for recurring problems, especially issues related to the transmission, engine, or electronics.
Which model year Ford Explorer to avoid?
2002-2005 (Generation 3)
Topping the list for worst model years are all those from Generation 3. This version of the Explorer featured a ground-up redesign, which ended its commonality with the Ford Ranger, including the chassis.
