What are common problems with the 2018 Ford Explorer?
The most frequently reported issues involve the transmission, electronics/infotainment, and occasional engine or climate-control concerns.
The 2018 Ford Explorer sits in Ford's midsize SUV lineup with options that include V6 and EcoBoost engines and rear- or all-wheel drive. While many owners report solid reliability, a subset have encountered repeat problems that show up in owner forums, consumer guides, and recall data. This article outlines the major issues that have been most commonly reported, what you might notice on the road, and how to verify recalls before buying or during ownership.
Transmission and Drivetrain Problems
Common symptoms center on the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and shudder, delayed engagement, and occasional loss of drive power.
Typical symptoms to watch for
- Shuddering or harsh shifts when moving from a stop or accelerating, especially in cold weather or low-speed driving.
- Transmission slipping or failing to engage gears, which may require service or replacement.
- Delayed or inconsistent upshifts or downshifts that affect acceleration or towing performance.
- Vibration or unusual noises from the transmission area while in operation.
- Torque-converter-related concerns such as surging or slipping under light throttle.
Frequent transmission issues tend to center around notable shifts in behavior rather than a single catastrophic failure, and some cases are addressed with software updates or fluid/valve body servicing.
Infotainment and Electrical System Problems
Electrical gremlins and infotainment glitches are a common source of frustration for 2018 Explorers, particularly with the MyFord Touch/Sync interface.
Common electrical and media problems
- Unresponsive or slow-to-react touchscreen, especially on the MyFord Touch/Sync system.
- System freezes, reboots, or resets of the infotainment software while driving.
- Bluetooth connectivity dropouts or pairing failures with smartphones and audio devices.
- Voice-recognition misinterpretation or failure to execute commands reliably.
- Navigation errors or map data occasionally failing to load.
Owners who rely on the built-in system for navigation and hands-free calls may notice the impact more acutely, though many issues are addressed via software updates or replacements under warranty.
Engine Performance and Reliability
Some 2018 Explorers experience engine performance issues, particularly with EcoBoost powerplants that use direct injection and turbocharging.
Engine-related concerns to consider
- Intermittent loss of power or reduced acceleration under load, such as when climbing hills or towing.
- Rough idle or occasional misfires indicated by a check engine light.
- Carbon buildup on direct-injection EcoBoost engines leading to performance dips and potential maintenance needs.
- Higher-than-expected oil consumption on some engines, requiring monitoring and timely oil top-offs or service.
- Fluctuating or lower-than-expected fuel economy.
Engine concerns can vary by engine choice and driving style; regular maintenance and timely attention to codes can help mitigate longer-term effects.
Climate Control, Interior Comfort, and Miscellaneous
Interior comfort and climate-control performance have produced a mix of reports, including cooling/heating issues and nuisance noises.
Interior and climate-related issues
- A/C cooling not as strong as expected or compressor cycling irregularly.
- Heater fan or blend door problems leading to inconsistent cabin temperature.
- Electrical glitches affecting interior features such as power seats, mirrors, or lighting.
- Noise, vibration, or rattles from interior panels or the suspension during rough road conditions.
While these issues rarely affect safety, they can impact daily comfort and may require component replacement or software adjustments.
Recalls, Safety Campaigns, and How to Verify
Because recalls are safety-related and not limited to a single model year, buyers and owners should verify the specific vehicle's recall status with the VIN and review Ford service campaigns and NHTSA records.
What to check and how to verify recalls
- Use the VIN to search the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Ford recall databases for open campaigns.
- Check whether prior owners completed any required service, including transmission software updates or infotainment recalls.
- Contact a Ford dealership to confirm whether all campaigns have been completed and whether any service advisories apply to your vehicle.
- Be aware that some service campaigns may be performed at no cost under warranty or recall obligations.
Staying up to date on recalls can reduce risk and improve performance, safety, and reliability of an older model year like the 2018 Explorer.
Summary
The 2018 Ford Explorer commonly shows a pattern of transmission-related behavior, infotainment and electrical glitches, and occasional engine or climate-control concerns. While many owners report reliable operation, a meaningful subset experience issues that can affect daily use or resale value. Prospective buyers should obtain a full vehicle history, verify recall statuses with the VIN, and have any reported symptoms evaluated by a qualified technician. Regular maintenance and timely software updates can help mitigate some problems, and understanding these patterns will help owners manage expectations and plan preventive care.
