Does the 2010 Ford Explorer have transmission problems?

The 2010 Ford Explorer is not broadly known for a model-wide transmission defect, but individual vehicles can develop transmission-related issues as they age. Maintenance history and mileage are often the decisive factors in whether problems appear.

Overview of transmission concerns in the 2010 Explorer

Below are the issues most commonly reported by owners or noted in service notes. These symptoms are not universal, but they are the ones historically associated with aging automatic transmissions in Explorers from this era.

• Slipping or harsh/shuddering between gears


• Delayed engagement when shifting from Park or Neutral to Drive


• Surging or unpredictable shifting during highway driving


• Torque converter-related vibrations or shudder


• Transmission fluid leaks or consistently low fluid levels

Concluding: While these issues have appeared in some 2010 Explorers, they are not guaranteed to affect every vehicle, and many owners experience dependable performance with proper maintenance.

How to diagnose and address potential problems

If you notice symptoms, follow a methodical approach to identify the cause and determine the best fix. The steps below are practical guidelines used by owners and technicians.

• Check transmission fluid level, color, and smell; look for leaks under the vehicle


• Note when the problem occurs (cold start vs. hot operation, idle vs. driving)


• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission control or sensors


• Inspect transmission fluid and filter; replace if the fluid is dirty or burnt


• Consider software updates to the transmission control module if advised by Ford

Concluding: Early diagnosis can prevent more serious damage. If symptoms persist after basic checks, consult a qualified mechanic or Ford dealership for a thorough inspection.

Recalls and service notices to watch for

Recall campaigns and service bulletins can address transmission-related issues, sometimes through software updates or specific component fixes. It’s important to verify whether a 2010 Explorer has any active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) affecting the transmission.

• Check recalls by VIN using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database


• Cross-check Ford’s official recall/TSB portal with the VIN for model-year-specific notes


• Ask a dealer to confirm if any recalls or TSBs apply and whether a complimentary fix is available

Concluding: If a recall or TSB covers your vehicle, have the repair completed through Ford or an authorized dealer, as these fixes are typically covered under warranty or recall terms.

Maintenance practices to minimize transmission risk

Regular care can extend the life of a transmission in an aging Explorer. The following practices are widely recommended by manufacturers and service professionals.

• Follow Ford’s recommended transmission fluid change intervals with the correct ATF type


• Address leaks promptly and keep the system sealed and clean


• Avoid towing beyond the vehicle’s capacity to reduce extra strain


• Maintain cooling system efficiency to prevent overheating of the transmission

Concluding: Proactive maintenance and timely repairs reduce the likelihood and severity of transmission problems in the 2010 Explorer.

Bottom line

Overall, the 2010 Ford Explorer does not exhibit a pervasive, model-wide transmission problem. Individual cases exist, particularly as cars accumulate miles, but many owners experience solid performance with proper care. If you’re considering buying one or currently own a 2010 Explorer, check service history, be alert for warning signs, and verify any recalls or service bulletins related to the transmission.

Summary

The 2010 Ford Explorer is not widely plagued by transmission failures, but aging units can show issues such as slipping, delayed engagement, or shuddering. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to symptoms, and keeping up with recalls/TSBs are key to minimizing risk. For anyone owning or purchasing a 2010 Explorer, a thorough diagnostic check and VIN-based recall search are prudent steps.

What problems does a 2010 Ford Explorer have?

Common problems for the 2010 Ford Explorer include issues with the cooling system (leaking thermostat housing, cracked intake manifold, radiator failures), HVAC system (broken heater blend door, AC fan speed changes), and engine components like worn timing chains and rough idle from cracked PCV hoses or sticking EGR sensors. Transmission problems, such as delayed shifting and rough shifts, are also frequently reported, often related to low fluid or worn parts. 
Cooling system

• Leaking thermostat housing: A common issue, especially on the 4.0L V6, can cause a coolant odor and overheating. 
• Cracked intake manifold: This can lead to coolant leaks and rough idle. 
• Radiator failure: Frequent radiator failures can also cause overheating. 
• Overheating: Caused by leaks from the thermostat housing or radiator, or a malfunctioning thermostat. 

This video discusses common cooling system problems in the 2010 Ford Explorer: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 9, 2023
Engine

• Worn timing chain cassettes: Can cause a rattling noise from the engine. 
• Rough idle and stalling: May be caused by a cracked PCV hose, a sticking EGR sensor, or a cracked intake manifold. 
• Spark plug ejection: Some models may experience spark plugs ejecting, a problem often referred to as "spark plug blowouts". 

HVAC

• Broken heater blend door: Can cause the heater to get stuck on the hottest setting and may be accompanied by a ticking noise. 
• A/C fan speed issues: The fan speed may change constantly or the blower motor may fail. 
• Coolant smell: Can be a symptom of other problems, such as a leaking heater core or thermostat housing. 

This video demonstrates how to fix a common HVAC problem in the 2010 Ford Explorer: 59sAbnormal GarageYouTube · May 1, 2021
Transmission

• Delayed or rough shifting: This can be caused by low or contaminated transmission fluid, or faulty shift solenoids. 
• Transmission slipping: May occur between gears, especially under load. 

Other issues

• Phone pairing: Some users report difficulties with Bluetooth phone pairing. 
• Exhaust manifold leaks: Can cause a ticking noise at startup and the smell of exhaust fumes. 
• Rear wiper failure: The rear wiper motor may fail and stop working. 

What year did Ford Explorers have transmission problems?

Specifically, models from 2002 to 2010 are considered the most problematic, primarily due to transmission failures and other expensive repairs. The 2002-2006 Ford Explorers have some of the worst reliability ratings of any year, with many owners reporting frequent repairs and poor performance.

What years did Ford have bad transmissions?

Ford's PowerShift dual clutch transmission was used in 2010. Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.

Is 2010 a good year for a Ford Explorer?

While the Ford Explorer's reliability score has fluctuated over the years, some models have demonstrated dependability and longevity. If you're considering investing in an Explorer, consider these model years: 1993, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2019.