What are common problems with a 2015 Ford Explorer?
The most frequently reported problems with the 2015 Ford Explorer center on the drivetrain, electrical systems, and wear-related components such as suspension and brakes. These issues are not universal, but they appear with enough regularity in owner reports and recalls to merit attention from prospective buyers and current owners.
Below is a detailed look at the categories of problems commonly cited by owners, along with typical symptoms, what to watch for, and guidance on maintenance or remedies. The Explorer from this era uses a traditional automatic transmission and available all-wheel-drive, along with an electronic infotainment system that can be a frequent source of trouble for some owners.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Typical symptoms and reported concerns
Before diving into the items, note that drivetrain issues in the 2015 Explorer most often involve the transmission, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, and related components. Here are the issues most frequently mentioned by owners and service notes:
- Transmission shudder or harsh shifting, particularly during light throttle or between certain gears.
- Slipping, delayed engagement, or overall transmission performance problems that may require servicing or replacement.
- AWD Power Transfer Unit (PTU) or transfer-case problems, including whining, clunking, or leaks, which can affect all-wheel-drive performance.
- Rear- or front-differential noise or wear symptoms in AWD configurations, sometimes accompanied by changes in ride feel or handling.
- General transmission fluid leaks or fluid-level concerns that can lead to abnormal shift behavior if not addressed.
Issues in this category typically show up as shifting irregularities, noises, or warning lights, and they can affect drivability if not diagnosed and repaired.
In summary, drivetrain and transmission problems are among the most commonly reported concerns for the 2015 Explorer, particularly in higher-mileage examples or those with AWD.
Electrical and Infotainment
Typical symptoms and reported concerns
Before listing the items, it helps to know that many electrical and infotainment problems relate to Ford’s MyFord Touch/Sync system, as well as common power and wiring issues that can affect multiple features. Typical complaints include:
- MyFord Touch/Sync system freezing, rebooting, or becoming unresponsive, with slow touchscreen performance or lag.
- Bluetooth pairing problems, audio dropouts, or inconsistent connectivity with mobile devices.
- Back-up camera display issues, navigation glitches, or intermittent loss of dashboard information on the main screen.
- Electrical accessories (power windows, door locks, seat memory) working inconsistently or failing to respond.
- Instrument cluster flickering or dimming, and occasional warning lights that turn on without a cleared fault.
These electrical and infotainment concerns are a common source of owner frustration and may be addressed with software updates, module re-flashes, or component replacements.
Overall, the 2015 Explorer’s electrical systems and MyFord Touch interface tend to be the most frequently reported trouble spots outside of drivetrain issues.
Suspension, Steering, and Brakes
Typical symptoms and reported concerns
Before listing the items, consider that wear-related components and handling are typical concerns in midsize SUVs like the Explorer. Reported problems include:
- Premature brake wear or pulsation due to warped rotors or caliper issues, leading to reduced stopping efficiency or noise.
- Steering assist issues with electric power steering (EPS), including reduced assist, heavier steering feels, or intermittent assist failure.
- Front-end clunking or knocking noises from worn ball joints, control arms, or suspension bushings, especially over bumps.
- Wheel bearing wear producing rumbling or humming noises at certain speeds.
- Suspension sag or uneven ride height over time, sometimes affecting alignment or tire wear.
Handling, braking performance, and ride quality can be affected when these components wear, prompting inspections or replacement during routine maintenance or at the onset of symptoms.
In short, suspension, steering, and braking issues are a notable area of concern for the 2015 Explorer, particularly in vehicles with higher mileage or challenging driving conditions.
Engine Performance and Consumption
Typical symptoms and reported concerns
Before the list, it helps to understand that engine-related problems in this model year often show up as misfires, power delivery concerns, or oil and gasket-related leaks. Common reports include:
- Engine misfires or rough idle, often related to ignition coils or spark plugs in older maintenance cycles.
- Loss of power or hesitation during acceleration, which can trigger stored fault codes and a check-engine light.
- Oil leaks around valve covers or gaskets in some engines, requiring repair and resealing.
- General fuel economy or performance variance due to throttle body or sensor wear.
Engine performance concerns are typically addressed through diagnostic testing and component replacements (such as ignition parts or gaskets) as needed.
Overall, engine performance issues are less common than some drivetrain or electrical problems, but they do appear in some 2015 Explorer vehicles, especially with higher mileage.
Recalls, Maintenace Tips, and How to Check Your SUV
To ensure you’re up to date, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and your vehicle’s service records for any open campaigns related to transmission, PTU, electrical systems, or suspension components. Service bulletins (TSBs) from Ford may also address specific symptoms with recommended diagnostics and fixes.
What to do if you’re shopping for a used 2015 Explorer or own one today: prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission in both normal and AWD modes, a test drive that includes acceleration and braking at different speeds, a detailed infotainment system check, and a quick inspection of the suspension and brakes. Regular maintenance—oil changes with manufacturer-recommended intervals, transmission fluid changes, and brake inspections—can help mitigate many of these common issues over time.
Summary
The 2015 Ford Explorer experiences a range of common problems, with the most frequently reported being drivetrain/transmission issues, electrical and infotainment glitches, suspension and steering wear, and engine performance concerns. While not every vehicle will suffer these problems, potential buyers and current owners should be attentive to symptoms such as rough shifting, AWD noises, touchscreen freezes, brake concerns, and engine misfires. Regular maintenance and prompt diagnostics when warning lights appear can help manage these issues effectively. Always consult your vehicle’s recall and service history for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
