How many miles will a 2019 Ford Explorer last?

With proper maintenance, a 2019 Ford Explorer can typically reach around 200,000 miles, and many owners report hitting 250,000 miles or more with diligent upkeep.

What determines the Explorer's longevity

The longevity of a 2019 Explorer depends on a combination of maintenance discipline, driving conditions, and the specific powertrain. The factors below have the biggest influence on how far the vehicle will go.

• Regular preventive maintenance on schedule, including oil and filter changes, and fluid replacements


• Prompt repair of emerging issues, especially with the transmission, cooling system, and ignition components


• Consistent care of the cooling system, brakes, tires, and alignment to reduce stress on the drivetrain


• Climate and storage conditions, with extra attention to corrosion protection in salt-prone areas


• Driving habits and vehicle usage, such as highway commuting vs. frequent short trips or heavy towing

These variables interact to determine whether a 2019 Explorer reaches higher-mileage milestones or experiences earlier wear. A disciplined maintenance routine and sensible use are strong predictors of long life.

Maintenance practices to maximize life

To maximize the lifespan of a 2019 Explorer, owners should follow Ford’s recommended service schedule and use appropriate fluids and parts. The following practices help keep engines and transmissions performing over time.

• Adhere to the official maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid, coolant, and other inspections


• Use the fluids and viscosities specified in the owner's manual, and consider synthetic oil if recommended


• Monitor and maintain transmission fluid levels and condition; address shifting issues promptly


• Stay up to date on recalls and service campaigns and complete repairs as advised by Ford


• Maintain tires, wheel alignment, and braking components to minimize uneven wear and drivetrain stress


• Protect against rust and corrosion in regions with harsh winters or road salt


• Avoid exceeding towing capacities and practice smooth driving to reduce engine and transmission strain

Following these maintenance habits consistently is the most reliable way to extend the Explorer’s life and preserve its performance over time.

Engine options and longevity considerations

The 2019 Explorer offered two primary engine choices, each with its own maintenance profile but capable of long life when properly cared for. Understanding these options can help set expectations for durability and ownership costs.

Two common engine choices for 2019 Explorer

The 2019 Explorer typically came with either a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 or a 3.5-liter V6. The smaller engine delivers better fuel economy, while the V6 provides more power and towing capability. Neither option is inherently short-lived when serviced regularly and used responsibly.

• 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4: efficient and widely used; with regular maintenance, it can contribute to long vehicle life


• 3.5L V6: robust and powerful; durability largely hinges on maintenance and proper service intervals

Engine choice affects performance costs and maintenance needs, but with consistent care, either option can reach high mileage without dramatic compromises.

Summary

In practical terms, a well-maintained 2019 Ford Explorer can be expected to last around 200,000 miles, with many examples approaching or exceeding 250,000 miles. Real-world results depend on how faithfully the vehicle is serviced, how it is driven, and the environment in which it operates. Regular maintenance, careful driving, and timely repairs are the best formula for maximizing the Explorer’s lifespan.

Is the 2019 Ford Explorer reliable?

The 2019 Ford Explorer has a mixed reliability record, with some sources giving it good ratings while others point to below-average reliability. It received an average rating from consumer organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, with some owners reporting issues such as problems with the infotainment system, brakes, and fuel system, although many also report excellent reliability, particularly with the EcoBoost engine. 
Points to consider

• Mixed owner reviews: Some owners report excellent reliability and performance, especially with the EcoBoost engine, while others have experienced issues like a problematic infotainment system and quality control problems. 
• Below-average predicted reliability rating: U.S. News & World Report gave the 2019 model a below-average predicted reliability rating. 
• Consumer Reports data: Consumer Reports notes several recalls and owner-reported problems, including issues with the brakes, fuel system, and sensors. 
• Positive aspects: Despite some issues, the 2019 model is considered much more reliable than the 2013–2017 models. It also received a perfect 5-star government crash test rating and has a spacious interior with good cargo space. 
• Warranty: The 2019 Ford Explorer comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. 

How to ensure reliability

• Proper maintenance: Sticking to the recommended service schedule and promptly addressing any minor problems can help extend the vehicle's lifespan and reduce the risk of major issues. 
• Check maintenance records: When buying a used 2019 Explorer, check its maintenance history, as lax maintenance can negatively impact its reliability. 
• Test-drive: Take a test drive to check for any unusual symptoms, such as transmission problems or brake issues. 

What is considered high mileage for a Ford Explorer?

between 200,000 and 250,000 miles
For a Ford Explorer, high mileage is typically considered to be between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. However, with proper care, many Explorers can surpass this range. Key factors include driving habits and regular maintenance.

What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?

You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
 
2002–2006 models 

• These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix. 
• Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions. 

Other years to approach with caution

• 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank. 
• 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect. 
• 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls. 

How many miles can you get out of a 2019 Ford Explorer?

A 2019 Ford Explorer's life expectancy is typically between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, or about 15 to 20 years, with many lasting longer with proper care. Factors like regular maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks), driving conditions (highway versus stop-and-go), and how you use the vehicle (towing) will significantly impact its lifespan. 
This video discusses the common problems and issues with Ford Explorers from 2011 to 2019: 24sQuiteAlrightYouTube · May 14, 2023
Factors that influence longevity

• Maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid replacements is crucial for extending the life of the engine, transmission, and other components. 
• Driving habits: Highway driving is generally easier on a vehicle than frequent city driving with stop-and-go traffic. 
• Vehicle usage: Frequent heavy towing or driving on rough terrain will cause more wear and tear on the vehicle's components compared to normal commuting. 
• Specific model year issues: While the 2011-2019 generation of Explorers was more reliable than earlier ones, some issues, such as those with the infotainment system, have been reported. Additionally, some models have a known potential water pump failure, which can be an expensive fix if not addressed proactively, according to a YouTube video. 

What to do

• Perform regular maintenance: Adhere to the recommended service intervals to keep the engine and other systems in good condition. 
• Be aware of potential issues: If buying used, ask about the water pump replacement history, especially if the vehicle has high mileage, as this is a common point of failure that is expensive to fix. 
• Drive responsibly: Avoid aggressive driving and be mindful of how your driving habits might affect the vehicle's lifespan.