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How big is the gas tank on a Ford Explorer XLT?

The gas tank on most recent Ford Explorer XLT models is about 20 gallons (roughly 75 liters).

The Explorer XLT is a popular three-row SUV offered in multiple model years and configurations. While the standard gas-powered XLT generally shares a similar tank size, exact capacity can vary by year, drivetrain (two-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive), and whether the model includes hybrid hardware. This article breaks down what to expect and how to verify your specific vehicle’s capacity.

Typical capacity for gas-powered Explorer XLT

Before listing specifics, keep in mind that the following reflects common configurations among recent non-hybrid XLTs. The figures can differ slightly with each model year and drivetrain option.

Gas-powered Explorer XLT (2WD or AWD): Approximately 20 gallons

In practical terms, this means a typical driver of a gas-only Explorer XLT can expect a full tank near 20 gallons, subject to the exact year and drivetrain of the vehicle. For owners seeking precision, consult the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s door jamb label for the official capacity of their specific unit.

Is your exact tank size different? How to confirm

To ensure you have the precise number for your SUV, rely on authoritative sources tied to your specific vehicle, such as:

The official Ford website’s model-year specifications page for Explorer

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual

The driver’s-side door jamb sticker, which lists basic specifications and may include fuel capacity for some models

Vin-specific documentation or a dealer service department

Because capacity can vary across model years and markets, checking these sources is the best way to confirm the exact tank size for a particular Explorer XLT.

Impact on range and fuel economy

Around 20 gallons of usable fuel, combined with the XLT’s engine efficiency, dictates the real-world driving range. Range changes with driving conditions, load, and climate, so owners should not rely on a single fuel-up figure. In general, a full tank provides a multi-hundred-mile potential depending on highway versus city driving and the engine option in the vehicle.

Summary

For most recent gas-powered Ford Explorer XLT models, the fuel tank is about 20 gallons. Exact capacity can vary by model year and drivetrain, so verification with the owner’s manual, Ford’s specifications for your year, or the vehicle’s door jamb label is recommended. Understanding the tank size helps in planning trips, estimating range, and budgeting fueling needs.

How far can a Ford Explorer go on a full tank of gas?

A Ford Explorer can go between approximately 350 and 525 miles on a full tank, depending on the model year, engine, and driving conditions. For example, a 2025 model with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine can get up to 501 highway miles on a full tank, while an ST model with a 3.0L EcoBoost engine can get up to 525 highway miles.

2025 Ford Explorer (2.3L EcoBoost): Up to 501 miles on the highway and 375.9 miles in the city with rear-wheel drive.
2025 Ford Explorer ST (3.0L EcoBoost): Up to 525 miles on the highway and 363.6 miles in the city with rear-wheel drive.
2024 Ford Explorer: Some users report a range of up to 525 miles under ideal highway conditions.
2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid: Up to 500 miles on the highway with front-wheel drive.

Factors that influence range:

Driving conditions: Highway driving generally results in a longer range than city driving.
Engine and drivetrain: Different engines and whether the vehicle has rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive will affect fuel economy and range.
Driving habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration or high speeds, can decrease the range.

How big is a Ford Explorer gas tank?

A Ford Explorer gas tank is either 17.9 gallons or 20.2 gallons, depending on the model and trim level. For example, the base model with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine typically has a 17.9-gallon tank, while the ST model with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine comes with the larger 20.2-gallon tank. Some hybrid models may have a slightly different capacity, such as 18 gallons.

17.9 gallons: This is standard for many trims, including the Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, and some Platinum models equipped with the 2.3L engine.
20.2 gallons: This larger size is found on higher-performance trims like the ST, King Ranch, and Platinum that have the more powerful 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine.
18 gallons: This capacity is sometimes seen in hybrid versions of trims like the Limited and Platinum.

What year Explorer to stay away from?

You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid

2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.

Other years with potential issues

2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.

How many gallons does a Ford Explorer XLT hold?

The Ford Explorer XLT has a gas tank size of 17.9 gallons. This size is standard for the XLT trim and other models with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, such as the Base, ST-Line, Timberline, and Limited trims.

XLT gas tank: 17.9 gallons
Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Other trims with this size: Base, ST-Line, Timberline, and Limited

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.