Is the Ford Explorer unibody or body-on-frame?
The Ford Explorer is a unibody SUV, meaning it has a monocoque body construction rather than a traditional body-on-frame design. This construction method has become increasingly common in modern SUVs and crossovers, offering improved handling, ride quality, and fuel efficiency compared to body-on-frame vehicles.
Unibody vs. Body-on-Frame Construction
In a unibody design, the body and frame are integrated into a single, unified structure. This provides enhanced rigidity and a more cohesive overall vehicle design. Unibody construction is typically found in passenger cars, crossovers, and many modern SUVs.
In contrast, body-on-frame construction features a separate body that is mounted on a distinct frame. This design is more common in trucks, larger SUVs, and some off-road-focused vehicles, as it offers greater towing and payload capacity, as well as improved durability for heavy-duty use.
The Ford Explorer's Unibody Design
The Ford Explorer has utilized a unibody design since its introduction in the 1990s. 1 This construction method allows the Explorer to offer a more comfortable, car-like ride while still providing the spaciousness and capability expected of an SUV. 2
The unibody design also contributes to the Explorer's improved fuel efficiency and handling characteristics compared to older, body-on-frame SUVs. 3 This makes the Explorer well-suited for everyday driving, while still maintaining the versatility and off-road potential that buyers expect from a midsize SUV.
Advantages of Unibody Construction
- Improved Ride Quality: Unibody vehicles typically offer a smoother, more refined ride due to the integrated body and frame design.
- Enhanced Handling: The unitary construction provides a more rigid platform, resulting in better handling and responsiveness.
- Increased Fuel Efficiency: Unibody designs are generally lighter than body-on-frame counterparts, leading to improved fuel economy.
- Increased Passenger and Cargo Space: The integrated design allows for more efficient use of interior space.
Overall, the Ford Explorer's unibody construction is a key feature that sets it apart from traditional body-on-frame SUVs, offering a more refined and efficient driving experience while still maintaining the versatility and capability expected of a midsize SUV.
Is the Ford Explorer body-on-frame or unibody?
However, this design can also result in a heavier and less agile vehicle. While earlier versions of the Ford Explorer featured a body-on-frame design, the shift to a unibody structure in later models highlights the industry trend toward crossover design.
Are expeditions built on truck frames?
Built with body-on-frame construction, the 2022 Ford Expedition has more in common with the Ford F-150 than it does with other Ford SUVs.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
What Are the Least Reliable Ford Explorer Years? No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models.
What is better, Ford Expedition or Explorer?
If you're trying to decide between the Ford Explorer vs. Expedition, both SUVs have pros and cons. If you need more room and a high tow capacity, the Expedition is probably the better choice. However, you'll need to consider that it delivers less gas mileage and is harder to maneuver.
Are Ford Explorers full frame?
In a major change, Ford moved the Explorer from a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame platform to a car-based, unitized front-wheel-drive platform. Though still marketed as an SUV, it was now more accurately a crossover. The largest engine was a V-6, while turbocharged four-cylinders.
What years did Ford make the unibody?
Ford's unibody trucks were only available from 1961-1963, and only on Ford's F-Series “styleside” pickups. The idea was to make the cab and the bed one long continuous piece. Even though they're referred to colloquially as unibody trucks, it's a bit of a misnomer.
Is Ford Explorer built on Ranger frame?
The Explorer ceased sharing the same chassis as the Ford Ranger but retained its body-on-frame design. In 2002, the two-door version of the vehicle ceased production, making the Explorer a four-door exclusive SUV.
What is the most reliable year of Ford Explorer?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
We recommend buying a used Ford Explorer beginning with the fourth generation, or model years of 2006 to 2010. In particular, we'd single out the 2009 and 2010 editions as among the more reliable earlier model years.
What is the biggest problem with the Ford Explorer?
The most significant issue with the Ford Explorer 2023 has been the recall of approximately 230,000 vehicles due to a faulty rear axle bolt. This defect can cause the vehicle to lose power and potentially roll away, posing serious safety risks.
Which is better unibody or body-on-frame SUV?
Unibody frame cars tend to be lighter in construction than body on frame vehicles, which means they get better fuel efficiency right off the bat. This is a major reason why so many Orlando Toyota crossovers and SUVs use this type of frame construction. Safer. Unibody frame vehicles also offer a high degree of safety.
