What year do Ford Explorers have transmission problems?
The Ford Explorer, a popular SUV, has faced transmission issues in certain model years. While the Explorer is generally a reliable vehicle, some model years have been more prone to transmission problems than others. This article will provide a detailed overview of the years when Ford Explorers have experienced transmission problems.
2002-2005 Ford Explorers
The Ford Explorer models from 2002 to 2005 are known to have experienced widespread transmission problems. These issues were primarily related to the 4R44E and 4R55E automatic transmissions used in these vehicles. Common problems included transmission slipping, delayed engagement, and premature failure.
- Transmission fluid leaks were a common issue, leading to low fluid levels and eventual transmission failure.
- The 4R44E and 4R55E transmissions were not well-suited for the power and weight of the Explorer, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Many owners reported needing to replace their transmission before reaching 100,000 miles.
Ford eventually extended the warranty on these transmissions, but the problems continued to plague owners of 2002-2005 Explorers.
2006-2010 Ford Explorers
The Ford Explorer models from 2006 to 2010 also experienced transmission issues, though not to the same extent as the earlier models. The 6R60 and 6R80 transmissions used in these Explorers were more robust, but still had some common problems.
- Transmission fluid leaks and low fluid levels were still a concern, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Some owners reported issues with delayed gear engagement, particularly when the transmission was cold.
- Transmission failures were less common than in the 2002-2005 models, but still occurred in a significant number of vehicles.
Ford made some improvements to the transmissions in the later 2006-2010 models, but the issues were not entirely resolved.
2011-2019 Ford Explorers
The Ford Explorer models from 2011 to 2019 have generally been more reliable when it comes to transmission performance. The 6R80 and 10R60 transmissions used in these vehicles have proven to be more durable and less prone to the problems seen in earlier models.p>
- Transmission issues are still reported, but at a much lower rate than in the 2002-2010 Explorers.
- Common problems include fluid leaks, delayed gear engagement, and occasional transmission failures.
- Overall, the transmission performance in the 2011-2019 Explorers has been significantly improved compared to earlier model years.
While the Ford Explorer has had its share of transmission problems over the years, the more recent models have shown significant improvements in this area. Owners of 2011-2019 Explorers are less likely to experience the widespread transmission issues that plagued earlier versions of this popular SUV.
How reliable are Ford Explorer transmissions?
Transmission Concerns: While Ford Explorers generally have reliable transmissions, some owners have reported occasional issues, such as rough shifting or transmission failures. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any unusual symptoms can help mitigate these problems.
What Ford models have transmission problems?
In 2023, Ford faced new class action lawsuits alleging dangerous issues with multiple models, including the F-150, Mustang, Expedition, and others using the 10R80 transmission. Plaintiffs assert these vehicles can suddenly lose power and accelerate unpredictably, posing injury risks from collisions.
At what mileage do Ford Explorers start having problems?
Ford Explorer Transmission Problems: A Closer Look
Transmission issues have historically been one of the Explorer's biggest weaknesses. In particular, models from 2002-2010 were notorious for premature transmission problems, often requiring costly repairs or replacements before hitting 100,000 miles.
What years did the Ford Explorer have a bad transmission?
SOME 2002-2009 EXPLORER, MOUNTAINEER, EXPLORER SPORT TRAC, 2002-2006 LINCOLN LS, 2005-2009 MUSTANG, 2002-2005 THUNDERBIRD AND 2003-2005 AVIATOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5R55S, 5R55W, AND 5R55N TRANSMISSION MAY EXPERIENCE SHIFTING CONCERNS.
Which Ford models have transmission problems?
In 2023, Ford faced new class action lawsuits alleging dangerous issues with multiple models, including the F-150, Mustang, Expedition, and others using the 10R80 transmission. Plaintiffs assert these vehicles can suddenly lose power and accelerate unpredictably, posing injury risks from collisions.
How many miles does a Ford Explorer transmission last?
Transmission. Well-maintained Ford Explorer transmissions free from factory defects can last anywhere from 80,000 to 180,000 miles. Like most parts, how and where you drive will affect the lifespan of your Ford Explorer. The Explorer year you choose will affect the life of your transmission.
What year is the bad Ford transmission?
These transmission defects have resulted in thousands of lawsuits against Ford across the United States. Today, in California alone, there are at least 800 current individual lawsuits against Ford Motor Company for issues with the PowerShift Transmissions on the 2011-2015 Ford Fiesta and 2012-2015 Ford Focus.
Which years of Ford Explorer are most reliable?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
We recommend buying a used Ford Explorer beginning with the fourth generation, or model years of 2006 to 2010. In particular, we'd single out the 2009 and 2010 editions as among the more reliable earlier model years.
What years are the Ford engines to avoid?
Here are five least reliable Ford engines we stay away from and five that last forever.
- 8 Least Reliable: 2008 – 2010 Ford Super Duty 6.4-Liter Power Stroke Engine.
- 9 Lasts Forever: 2011 – 2023 5.0-Liter Coyote Naturally Aspirated V8 Engine.
- 10 Least Reliable: 2003 – 2007 Ford Super Duty 6.0-Liter Power Stroke V8 Engine.
What years to avoid with a Ford Explorer?
No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models. These models notoriously experienced significant transmission troubles, with owners often shelling out over $2,000 for repair or total transmission replacements.
