Was 2014 a good year for the Ford Explorer?

Yes, 2014 was a solid year for the Ford Explorer, marked by continued sales momentum and practical updates that kept the SUV competitive in a crowded field.

Market Context in 2014

In 2014 the midsize SUV segment remained a crowded space, with family-friendly vehicles competing on space, safety and technology. The Explorer faced strong competition from rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Traverse. Ford kept the Explorer as a core pillar of its SUV lineup, relying on a blend of capability and value to maintain consumer interest.

What Changed in 2014

The 2014 model year introduced a few engine and feature updates that broadened the Explorer's appeal without a full redesign.

Powertrain options

The Explorer lineup maintained its V6 momentum while adding a turbocharged option to improve fuel efficiency and offer an alternative power profile.

• Introduction of a 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 as an available engine for improved highway efficiency


• Continued availability of the 3.5-liter V6, delivering strong step-in power for towing and family hauling


• All-wheel drive remained available across multiple trims, expanding capabilities in varied conditions


• Other refinements to gearing and transmission tuning helped balance performance with efficiency

Overall, the 2014 powertrain strategy gave buyers a choice between robust performance and improved fuel economy without sacrificing capability.

Technology and usability

Ford continued to refine the Explorer's interior technology and features, aiming to balance modern connectivity with reliability.

• Updates to the MyFordTouch infotainment system sought to improve responsiveness and ease of use


• Expanded standard features on mid-range trims (bluetooth, USB, rearview camera) and availability of advanced safety options on higher trims


• Cabin materials and noise reduction were tuned to deliver a more refined ride for a family SUV

While the tech refresh moved the Explorer closer to its rivals in terms of convenience, some owners and reviewers still noted early-generation infotainment quirks in certain trims.

Sales and Market Performance in 2014

In a year when families counted on spacious seating and safety, the Explorer maintained a steady sales trajectory and remained a key option in Ford's SUV lineup despite strong competition.

• The Explorer stayed competitive within the midsize SUV class, appealing to buyers seeking three-row seating and towing capacity


• Competition from the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Chevy Traverse and others kept pricing and incentives at play


• Ford leveraged its broad dealership network and a mix of trims to appeal to a wide range of buyers, sustaining interest through model-year cycles

Overall, 2014 reinforced the Explorer's standing as a practical choice in the midsize SUV segment, benefiting from updates while facing the usual competitive pressures of the market.

Quality, Reliability and Ownership Experience

Owners and reviewers weighed the Explorer's strengths in space, towing and ride comfort against the realities of technology reliability and ongoing service needs.

• Strong interior space, comfortable seating for families, and solid towing capability


• Engine choices offered a balance between power and efficiency, with the EcoBoost option delivering better mpg than some rivals


• MyFordTouch and related electronics were a persistent talking point, with some trips requiring troubleshooting or updates


• General maintenance and ownership costs aligned with other large SUVs in its class

For many buyers, the Explorer's overall package outweighed the tech quirks, especially for those prioritizing seating, cargo space and versatility.

Safety and Standards

Safety features and ratings continued to define the Explorer's appeal in 2014, with a mix of standard protections and optional driver-assistance gear across trims.

• Standard safety features included airbags, stability control, and traction control across most trims


• Available driver-assistance options included features like rearview cameras and parking aids on higher trims


• Ford addressed service campaigns as part of ongoing product support to maintain safety and reliability across the lineup

In sum, the Explorer offered a competitive safety package for the class, reinforcing its suitability for families seeking a capable three-row SUV.

Bottom Line: Verdict for 2014

2014 was a constructive year for the Ford Explorer. It benefited from a broadened engine lineup, continued feature updates, and steady sales momentum within a tough segment. Some concerns about in-car technology persisted, and competition remained fierce, but the model year helped Ford maintain the Explorer's relevance for buyers seeking space, power, and practicality.

Summary

In 2014, the Ford Explorer stayed a competitive and practical choice within the midsize SUV market, balancing new powertrain options and tech refinements with the familiar strengths of space and capability. While not a transformative year, it solidified the Explorer's role as a reliable family SUV in Ford's lineup and kept it in the conversation among its key rivals.

What years to stay away from for a Ford Explorer?

2002-2006
No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models. These models notoriously experienced significant transmission troubles, with owners often shelling out over $2,000 for repair or total transmission replacements.

What is the best and worst year of the Ford Explorer?

The best Ford Explorer years are generally considered to be 1993, 2009–2011, 2019, and 2023, due to improvements in reliability. The worst years are typically the 2002–2006 models, which are known for frequent transmission failures and other issues, as well as later models like the 2012–2017 range for having a high number of owner complaints. 
This video discusses the reliability of Ford Explorer, including specific models and common problems: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · Nov 2, 2025
Best years

• 1993: Considered a highly reliable model year. 
• 2009–2011: These years are frequently cited for solid reliability ratings, with 2009 and 2010 models noted as particularly strong for their generation. 
• 2019: This year stands out for its reliability and modern features, including the Sport trim. 
• 2023: A more recent model that receives strong reliability ratings. 

Worst years

• 2002–2006: These models are widely regarded as the least reliable due to severe problems with transmissions, engines, and electrical systems. 
• 2012–2017: These years saw a high number of customer complaints, with the 2013 model being particularly problematic regarding steering issues. 

You can watch this video to learn about some common problems with Ford Explorers: 59sDriven By GearsYouTube · Feb 28, 2025
What to consider when buying

• Check maintenance records: For any used model, verify that it has been well-maintained, which can significantly impact its longevity. 
• Avoid specific problem years: Stay away from the 2002–2006 models and be cautious with other models that have a history of complaints. 
• Newer is often better: While the 2019 and 2023 models are good options, newer generations generally have more modern features and improved stability control, though the 2016 and 2020 models have drawn some criticism. 
• Get a pre-purchase inspection: Always have a mechanic inspect any used vehicle before buying it. 

Is the 2014 Ford Explorer reliable?

Reliability. The 2014 Ford Explorer has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 7 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you'll find our owner reviews.

Do 2014 Ford Explorers have transmission problems?

If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2014 Ford Explorer transmission will slip.