What kind of frame does a Ford Explorer have?
The Ford Explorer today uses a unibody chassis, a shift that Ford implemented starting with the 2011 model year and has continued through the latest generations. This article explains the type of frame the Explorer uses, how it has changed over time, and what it means for owners and buyers.
What kind of frame does a Ford Explorer have?
The modern Ford Explorer uses a unibody construction rather than a traditional body-on-frame chassis.
In detail, Ford redesigned the Explorer around a unitized body with independent suspension, focusing on on-road comfort, efficiency, and family practicality. All-wheel drive is available on several trims, and the unibody framework is shared with Ford’s other midsize crossovers. By contrast, earlier Explorer generations relied on a body-on-frame setup derived from pickup-truck platforms, which offered heavyweight towing and rugged off-road credentials but sacrificed ride comfort and efficiency.
Historical frame types by generation
The following timeline highlights how the Explorer’s frame type has evolved across its generations:
- First generation (1990–1994): Body-on-frame
- Second generation (1995–2001): Body-on-frame
- Third generation (2002–2010): Body-on-frame
- Fourth and fifth generations (2011–present): Unibody (unitized body) with independent suspension
For buyers, the shift to unibody means improved ride quality and fuel efficiency, but it generally changes the SUV’s rugged, off-road-centric capabilities compared with the earlier, truck-based designs.
Current platform details
In the current lineup, the Explorer sits on a unibody chassis with front- or all-wheel drive available, depending on the powertrain and trim. It shares engineering with Ford’s other crossovers, prioritizing refined handling, safety features, and daily usability while maintaining practical towing and seating options.
What this means for buyers and owners
Understanding the frame matters for towing, maintenance, and expected performance in different conditions. The unibody design influences cost, repair procedures, and the way the vehicle behaves on pavement compared with older, body-on-frame SUVs.
- Current models offer strong on-road handling and comfort thanks to the unibody construction.
- Off-road capability is good with appropriate trims and AWD, but not as extreme as traditional body-on-frame designs.
- Maintenance and parts are aligned with modern unibody Ford crossovers, affecting repair approaches and crash safety design.
Overall, the Explorer’s frame reflects Ford’s shift toward asphalt-friendly SUVs that prioritize everyday practicality and safety while retaining respectable towing and versatility.
Summary
The Ford Explorer currently uses a unibody construction, a transition that began with the 2011 redesign and continues in today’s models. This unibody design provides a smoother ride, better efficiency, and modern safety features, while offering capable all-wheel-drive options and practical towing for family-oriented use.
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.
What frame is the Explorer built on?
unibody
the Ford Explorer is not currently built on a truck chassis. It is classified as a crossover SUV and uses a unibody construction, similar to many passenger cars, rather than the traditional body-on-frame design of a truck chassis.
What year did Ford go to aluminum frame?
2015
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well.
What is the difference between body-on-frame and unibody Explorer?
You might come across terms such as “unibody” and “body-on-frame.” These terms describe how vehicles are put together and can affect safety, performance, and comfort. You can usually find unibody designs in cars and crossover SUVs, while body-on-frame construction is more common in trucks and tough off-road vehicles.
