How often does a Ford Explorer need a tune up?
There isn't a fixed tune-up interval for modern Ford Explorers. Maintenance is driven by time and mileage, and a traditional tune-up is largely a relic of older engines. Spark plugs typically last around 100,000 miles, depending on engine, and may not need replacement on every service interval.
In practice, Ford's schedule focuses on regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections at specified mileages or timeframes. The exact intervals depend on the model year and engine, so consult the owner's manual or a dealer for your exact Explorer.
What counts as a tune-up today
Today’s tune-up means following the factory maintenance plan and performing routine checks and component replacements as needed, rather than performing carburetor adjustments or wiring work.
Below is a practical outline of typical maintenance tasks and the general windows people can expect for a Ford Explorer. Exact numbers vary by engine type and year.
- Oil and filter changes: every 5,000 miles with conventional oil, or 7,500–10,000 miles with synthetic oil (often guided by the vehicle’s oil life monitor).
- Air filter replacement: typically every 15,000–30,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and environment.
- Cabin air filter replacement: usually every 15,000–30,000 miles.
- Spark plug replacement: commonly around 100,000 miles for modern Explorer engines; some configurations may specify different intervals. Check your manual.
- Ignition components: modern coil-on-plug designs reduce the need for wires; replace ignition coils only if they fail or show misfire symptoms.
- Fuel system: most newer Explorers don’t require routine fuel filter replacement; if your model has one, follow the manual. Consider a fuel system cleaning if you notice performance issues.
- Belt/chain service: serpentine belts may be replaced around 60,000–100,000 miles depending on model; many Explorers use timing chains that are not replaced at a fixed interval, but should be inspected periodically.
- Fluids and inspections: brake fluid typically checked and replaced as needed (often every 2 years), coolant at specified intervals (often around 100,000 miles or per manual), and transmission fluid as recommended by Ford (some models have dedicated service intervals based on conditions).
In short, there is no universal tune-up interval for the Ford Explorer; follow Ford’s official maintenance schedule for your specific model year and engine. Routine service at recommended mileages remains the best approach to keeping the vehicle reliable.
Model-year and engine variations
Explorers across different years use a mix of engines (for example, 2.3L EcoBoost, 3.0L EcoBoost, 3.5L V6, and various hybrids). Spark plug intervals, belt/chain maintenance, and fluid service windows can differ by engine. Always consult the specific maintenance schedule for your exact configuration.
Engine-specific guidance
As a rule of thumb, the spark plugs for most contemporary Ford engines in the Explorer family are targeted for replacement around 100,000 miles, but check the exact figure for your engine in the owner’s manual. Timing chains in modern Explorers typically don’t have a fixed replacement interval but should be inspected if you’re experiencing noise or performance issues.
Where to find the official schedule
Ford publishes maintenance schedules in the owner’s manual and on its official website. Your dealer can also print a plan tailored to your exact model year, engine, and drivetrain configuration.
Summary
Modern Ford Explorers do not require a traditional tune-up at set intervals. Expect routine maintenance at windows defined by Ford, typically including oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles, filter replacements (air and cabin) around 15,000–30,000 miles, and spark plugs around 100,000 miles depending on engine. Always follow the specific schedule for your model year and engine for the most accurate guidance.
What is included in a Ford tune up?
What's Included in a Car Tune-Up at Bob Tomes Ford?
- Spark plug and ignition system check.
- Engine air and cabin filter replacement.
- Battery and charging system test.
- Brake inspection and fluid top-offs.
- Fuel system cleaning and diagnostics.
- Tire inspection and pressure correction.
- Steering and suspension alignment check.
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 often should a Ford Explorer be serviced?
every 10,000 miles
You should bring your Ford Explorer in for maintenance at least every 10,000 miles. During these regular appointments, service technicians will perform basic maintenance, including giving your SUV an oil change, rotating the tires, and performing a multi-point inspection.
How often should you change spark plugs in a Ford Explorer?
every 30,000 miles
Experts generally recommend replacing spark plugs every 30,000 miles for the best results. If one of your Ford spark plugs gets out of whack, it can cause a reduction in gas mileage and engine problems later on.
