What are the disadvantages of Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer remains a popular three-row SUV, but it has several drawbacks that buyers should weigh before purchasing. The most notable downsides include limited access and space in the rear seat for adults, higher ownership costs, and mixed reliability and efficiency depending on model year and trim.
Performance and Efficiency
Powertrains and fuel use
While the Explorer offers ample power in several configurations, buyers often report fuel economy that trails rivals in its class, especially when the vehicle is loaded or towing.
- Fuel economy is generally less competitive with similarly sized rivals, particularly with larger or performance-oriented engines.
- Some trims balance strong acceleration with higher fuel costs, leading to higher operating expenses over time.
- When towing or carrying heavy loads, efficiency can drop further, affecting running costs and range between fill-ups.
In short, the Explorer’s performance can come with a noticeable trade-off in fuel efficiency, depending on the engine choice and usage patterns.
Interior Space and Practicality
Third-row usability and cargo space
The Explorer seats up to seven or six, but access and comfort in the third row can be limited for adults, and cargo space with the third row in use is often tight compared with some competitors.
- Adult passengers are typically better accommodated in the first and second rows; the third row is best suited for kids or shorter trips for adults.
- Access to the third row can be awkward in some configurations, especially if second-row seating uses certain captain’s-chair setups.
- With all three rows in use, the available cargo space shrinks significantly, limiting long trips with a full passenger load.
These space considerations can make the Explorer less versatile for families that regularly haul tall passengers or bulkier gear behind the third row.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
Maintenance, recalls, and long-term costs
Owner experiences and recall history have shown variability across model years, which can translate into higher maintenance costs or more frequent service needs for some buyers.
- Some model years have faced reliability concerns and recalls related to powertrain, electrical systems, or other components, affecting upkeep and downtime.
- Overall ownership costs, including routine maintenance, insurance, and potential repairs, can be higher than average for a midsize SUV in this segment.
- Long-term reliability ratings have been mixed, with certain trims or generations performing better than others in consumer surveys and independent tests.
Prospective buyers should review the specific model year’s reliability history and consider extended warranty options to mitigate potential costs.
Technology and Comfort Trade-offs
Infotainment, driving dynamics, and features
Modern Explorers come with a suite of tech, but some owners report issues with the infotainment system and comfort-related trade-offs depending on trim and wheel choice.
- Infotainment systems can be slow to respond or prone to glitches in certain configurations, impacting everyday usability.
- Ride quality can vary by trim; larger wheels or sport-oriented setups may introduce more road noise or a stiffer feel, reducing overall comfort on rough roads.
- Advanced driver-assistance features and high-tech options may be limited to higher trims or optional packages, increasing the effective cost of a fully equipped vehicle.
Technology and comfort are strong in many Explorer configurations, but the downsides noted here highlight that not all trims deliver the same level of polish or user experience.
Bottom Line and Alternatives
For buyers prioritizing interior space and on-road comfort, the Explorer remains a solid option among three-row SUVs. However, the model’s downsides—especially around third-row practicality, operating costs, and reliability variability—mean that rivals in the segment may better suit those with stricter efficiency targets, tighter budgets, or a stronger emphasis on long-term dependability. Prospective buyers should compare specific model years, trims, and competing vehicles to determine the best fit.
Summary
The Ford Explorer offers versatile seating and a comfortable ride, but potential owners should be aware of limited third-row space for adults, higher ownership costs, and mixed reliability depending on year and trim. Its strength lies in family practicality and technology, while its weaknesses center on space efficiency, maintenance concerns, and fuel economy trade-offs. For some buyers, a close competitor may better align with their priorities; for others, careful selection of a well-regarded year and trim can maximize satisfaction.
