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How reliable are 2013 Ford Explorers?

The reliability of 2013 Ford Explorers is mixed: they can be dependable with proper maintenance, but a noticeable share of examples experience transmission, electrical, or climate-control issues as they age. Use and maintenance history strongly influence outcomes.

In this article, we examine what reliability data say about the 2013 Explorer, the kinds of problems most owners report, what ownership costs look like, and practical tips for anyone considering a used example. We also offer guidance on what to check when shopping for one, so buyers can make an informed decision based on typical risk factors for this model year.

Reliability data and owner sentiment

What researchers and consumer feedback generally indicate helps frame how the 2013 Explorer performs in the real world. The model year sits in the mid-pack for reliability among midsize SUVs from the era, with a tendency for certain frequent fault areas to appear as mileage increases. Below are high-level impressions drawn from broader reliability reviews and owner reports.

Overall ratings tend to be average to slightly below average for age and class, with variations based on maintenance and mileage.

There have been recalls and service campaigns on some 2013 Explorers to address drivetrain and electrical concerns; verifying recall clearance before purchase is important.

Owner feedback frequently highlights that routine maintenance and timely repairs can keep the vehicle performing well, but neglect or high mileage can lead to more noticeable faults.

In short, reliability is not uniformly poor, but prospective buyers or owners should expect to monitor for specific wear items and plan for potential repairs as with many older family-sized SUVs.

Common mechanical issues reported by owners

To understand what to watch for, it helps to group likely trouble spots by system. The 2013 Explorer’s most often-discussed problems fall into drivetrain/transmission, electrical/HVAC, and chassis components. The following sections summarize typical patterns seen in ownership data and service histories.

Transmission and drivetrain

While many Explorers run smoothly, a subset of owners report transmission-related concerns as the odometer climbs. The list below highlights the kinds of transmission and drivetrain issues that appear most frequently in reports and some of their symptoms.

Rough or delayed shifting, especially when the vehicle is cold or after sustained highway driving.

Torque-converter shudder or hesitation during upshifts or deceleration.

Audit trail of transmission fluid leaks or a noticeable drop in fluid levels (if leaks are present).

In some cases, failure or early wear of transmission components leading to costly repairs.

Associated drivetrain noises or search for driveline vibrations at certain speeds.

Owners with higher-mileage examples often emphasize the importance of documented transmission service history and addressing issues early to avoid more significant failures.

Electrical and HVAC systems

Electrical gremlins and climate-control concerns appear with some regularity as these SUVs age. The following items are among those most commonly cited by owners and service technicians.

Power window regulators and door lock actuators that fail or operate intermittently.

A variety of sensor or wiring faults triggering warning lights or misbehavior of infotainment or dash electronics.

A/C compressor or HVAC control failures resulting in reduced cooling or heating performance.

Battery or charging-system issues that can cause intermittent starting troubles or electronics resets.

Electrical problems can be intermittent and may require patience to diagnose, sometimes involving module updates or wiring harness inspections.

Chassis, suspension, and brakes

Many owners report wear-related concerns typical of an aging SUV with a family-use footprint. Common observations include:

Worn front suspension components (control arms, bushings, ball joints) leading to clunks or degraded steering feel.

Brake wear or pulsation at higher mileages, sometimes accelerated by heavy use or towing.

Steering-related play or alignment drift due to suspension wear.

Occasional noise from the undercarriage or exhaust as components age.

As with other aging SUVs, regular inspections of suspension, brakes, and steering help prevent more serious issues and maintain a smooth ride.

Maintenance costs and ownership considerations

Understanding ongoing costs is key to assessing reliability in a used 2013 Explorer. Maintenance needs tend to rise with age, mileage, and prior service history. The following points summarize what owners typically encounter and plan for.

Routine maintenance costs include oil changes, tire replacement, brake service, and periodic fluid changes for cooling, transmission, and axle fluids.

Some repairs—particularly transmission work, suspension components, or electrical system repairs—can be costly if major parts fail or if the vehicle has high mileage.

Fuel economy is modest for a midsize SUV of its generation, so ongoing fuel costs should be anticipated as part of total ownership outlay.

With a careful purchase and diligent maintenance, many 2013 Explorers provide satisfactory ownership experiences; the key is to budget for typical wear items and address problems promptly to avoid cascading failures.

What to check when buying a used 2013 Ford Explorer

To minimize risk, buyers should perform targeted checks and obtain thorough records. The itemized checks below help prospective buyers gauge condition and avoid common pitfalls.

Obtain a complete maintenance and service history, including any transmission work, electrical repairs, and HVAC service.

Check for any open recalls and confirm that repairs were performed, with documentation from a Ford dealer or qualified shop.

Test drive with attention to transmission behavior: note smoothness of shifts, hesitation, and any shudder at engaging drive or in gears.

Inspect the engine bay for leaks, look at the transmission dipstick/fluid condition, and check for clean, amber-colored fluids without burned odor.

Inspect electrical components (windows, door locks, infotainment) and verify climate control performance in both heating and cooling modes.

Have the suspension, steering, and brakes inspected for play, noises, or uneven tire wear that could indicate worn components.

Review tire tread wear patterns and brake pad thickness to estimate remaining life and anticipated costs.

By prioritizing these checks, buyers can identify a well-maintained example and avoid models with hidden or looming repairs.

2013 Ford Explorers offer practical space and a comfortable ride, but reliability is variable. Transmission and electrical issues are the most frequently reported trouble areas as cars age, while routine maintenance and careful shopping can substantially influence the ownership experience. Prospective buyers should verify recall completions, review maintenance records, and perform a thorough test drive to assess how well a specific vehicle has aged. With diligence, a well-maintained 2013 Explorer can still be a sensible used-purchase option in the midsize SUV segment.

Is 2013 a good year for a Ford Explorer?

A 2013 Ford Explorer is considered a good car for its strong performance, comfortable and roomy interior, and respectable fuel economy, but its reliability is a mixed bag with common issues like water pump failure, which can lead to significant repair costs. While many owners report a positive experience with its handling and practicality, others have faced expensive and frequent repairs, so a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.
Pros

Driving experience: Praised for its confident and smooth ride, especially at highway speeds, with responsive steering.
Interior: Features a roomy and practical interior with a usable third-row seat and ample cargo capacity.
Performance: Offers sufficient power, with the base V6 being capable for most tasks, and the optional EcoBoost engine providing even quicker acceleration.
Fuel economy: Has respectable fuel economy, particularly with the EcoBoost engine, and is more fuel-efficient than many larger SUVs.

Cons

Reliability: Has received mixed reliability ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, with several reported issues.
Common problems: The water pump is a known weak point, with a potential for failure around 100,000 miles, and repairs can cost between $2,100 and $3,000.
Other issues: Other reported problems include electrical glitches, clogged drains leading to leaks, and issues with the climate, suspension, and exhaust systems.
Tow rating: The 5,000-pound tow rating may be a limitation for some buyers.

Recommendation
The 2013 Ford Explorer can be a good value if the potential for expensive repairs is factored into the purchase decision. It's crucial to get a pre-purchase inspection and to be prepared for the possibility of a water pump replacement or other issues, especially if it hasn't already been addressed. If you're looking for a comfortable and practical family SUV and are willing to take on potential repair costs, it can be a solid choice.

How long does the Ford Explorer 2013 last?

With proper care and maintenance, a Ford Explorer can easily last 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more, offering reliable service for up to 20 years. Factors like driving habits, regular maintenance, and the vehicle's model year all contribute to its lifespan.

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.

What is the most common problem with a 2013 Ford Explorer?

The most common problem with a 2013 Ford Explorer is exhaust fumes leaking into the cabin, often accompanied by other issues like water leaks, throttle body failures, and problems with the rear suspension. Multiple owners report a noticeable odor of exhaust gas inside the vehicle when the A/C is on, and some have experienced headaches as a result.
You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 23, 2020
Exhaust leaks

Symptom: Exhaust fumes enter the cabin, often triggered when the A/C is turned on.
Cause: A leak in the exhaust manifold can allow fumes to enter the air intake system.
Consequence: This can cause headaches for occupants.

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.