What is the diff ratio for the Ford Explorer?
There isn’t a single number—the Ford Explorer’s rear differential gear ratio varies by year, drivetrain, and trim. In modern Explorers, common ratios are around 3.39:1 or 3.73:1, with other ratios possible depending on the configuration.
Understanding differential gears in the Explorer
The differential ratio, or final drive ratio, determines how many times the driveshaft must turn to rotate the wheels once. A lower numeric ratio (like 3.31:1) generally improves highway efficiency and fuel economy, while a higher ratio (like 3.73:1) can improve towing capability and launch performance. The exact ratio your vehicle uses is set by the factory to balance performance, efficiency, and payload capability for that specific model year and trim.
Common rear-axle ratio ranges you'll see
These figures reflect typical configurations in recent Explorers; your exact ratio depends on model year, drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD), and any towing or premium packages.
- 3.39:1 — a frequently observed baseline on many AWD configurations and mid-range trims.
- 3.73:1 — common on models with towing or higher-torque setups and certain trims.
- Other ratios (less common but observed in some years or packages) around 3.31:1, 3.55:1, or, on rare/market-specific configurations, 4.10:1.
In practice, the most commonly encountered rear-axle ratios for recent Explorers are near 3.39:1 or 3.73:1, but the exact figure varies by build sheet and options.
How to find your exact diff ratio
To determine the precise rear-axle ratio for your specific Ford Explorer, use official sources or inspect the vehicle’s data.
Where to look and how to decode
- Window sticker or build sheet: The axle ratio is usually listed on the original window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet for the vehicle.
- VIN-based decode: Ford’s official Owner or Build & Price tools can reveal axle specifications tied to your VIN.
- Axle tag or differential stamp: Some Explorers have an axle code stamped on a tag near the rear axle or on the differential cover; this code maps to a specific gear ratio.
- Owner’s manual and dealership records: These documents often note the axle configuration, especially if a tow package is installed.
If you’re unsure, contact a Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm the exact diff ratio for your vehicle’s year, drivetrain, and trim.
Notes on changes over model years
Gear ratios can shift across generations, trims, or after mid-cycle refreshes as Ford updates drivetrains and towing capabilities. Always verify with the specific model year and configuration to avoid assumptions based on a different Explorer.
Summary
The Ford Explorer does not have a universal differential ratio. The exact rear-axle gear ratio depends on the model year, drivetrain, and options, with common modern values around 3.39:1 and 3.73:1. To know your precise ratio, consult the window sticker/build sheet, decode the VIN through Ford’s official tools, or ask a dealer for the exact specification for your vehicle.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid
- 2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
- 2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
- 2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.
Other years with potential issues
- 2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
- Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.
How do you tell if you have 3.73 or 4.10 gears?
You can tell if you have 3.73 or 4.10 gears by manually counting, checking the differential cover for a tag, or finding the ratio stamped on the ring gear. The most direct method is to lift the rear wheels, rotate one tire one full revolution, and count how many times the driveshaft turns; 3.75 turns indicates 3.73 gears, while slightly over 4 turns indicates 4.10 gears.
This video demonstrates how to check your gear ratio by counting the driveshaft turns: 48sBent Motorsports OffroadYouTube · Sep 22, 2023
Method 1: Manual count (with the vehicle jacked up)
- Jack up the vehicle: Safely lift the rear of your vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Ensure the wheels are off the ground.
- Mark the driveshaft and a tire: Place a mark on one of the rear tires and a corresponding mark on the driveshaft.
- Rotate the tire: Rotate the marked tire forward one full revolution. For an open differential, you may need to lift only one wheel and have someone hold the other stationary, or lift both wheels and rotate one tire twice while the other tire is on the ground. For a locked differential, lift both rear wheels and have one tire rotate once while the other rotates once in the opposite direction.
- Count the driveshaft turns: Count how many times the mark on the driveshaft has rotated.
- 3.73 gears: The driveshaft will turn approximately 3.753.753.75 times for one full tire revolution.
- 4.10 gears: The driveshaft will turn a little over 444 times for one full tire revolution.
Method 2: Check the differential cover tag
- Locate the tag: Look for a small metal tag that is usually bolted to the differential cover. It may be on one of the bolts.
- Read the ratio: If the tag is still present, the gear ratio will be stamped on it. It will likely be a number like "3.73" or "4.10".
You can watch this video to learn how to find the differential cover tag: 51sFlawed OffroadYouTube · Apr 18, 2022
Method 3: Read the ring gear stamps
- Locate the ring gear: This requires removing the differential cover to get a clear view of the ring gear.
- Find the numbers: Look for two numbers stamped on the teeth of the ring gear, such as "41" and "11".
- Divide the numbers: Divide the larger number (teeth on the ring gear) by the smaller number (teeth on the pinion gear).
- 41÷11≈3.7341 divided by 11 is approximately equal to 3.7341÷11≈3.73
- 41÷10=4.1041 divided by 10 equals 4.1041÷10=4.10
This video shows how to read the ring gear stamps to find the gear ratio: 46sJL LIFE OFFROADYouTube · Nov 18, 2022
Which is better, 3.31 or 3.55 axle ratio?
A 3.55 axle ratio is better for towing and hauling because it provides more torque for quicker acceleration and reduces strain on the engine when climbing hills. A 3.31 axle ratio is better for fuel economy on the highway, as it results in lower engine RPMs for a given speed.
Choose 3.55 if you:
- Prioritize towing or hauling: It gives you more pulling power for heavy loads and reduces the need for frequent downshifting on inclines.
- Plan to install larger tires: Larger tires can negate the benefits of a 3.31 ratio, and the 3.55 ratio compensates for the added size.
- Drive in mountainous or hilly terrain: This ratio keeps the engine in its power band on steep grades, even with a heavy load.
Choose 3.31 if you:
- Prioritize fuel economy: It will generally provide better gas mileage on the highway because the engine runs at a lower RPM.
- Primarily drive on highways: It's ideal for comfortable highway cruising where you don't need maximum pulling power.
- Towing needs are moderate: For lighter towing or flat-ground towing, the 3.31 ratio is often sufficient.
What is the rear diff ratio of the Ford Explorer?
This rear diff can be configured with either a 3.55, 3.73, or 4.10 gear ratios, depending on the stock configuration of your Explorer SUV.
