What year does the Ford Explorer have the most problems?

There isn't a single "worst" year for the Ford Explorer; reliability varies by generation and vehicle history. Data from major consumer-research sources show the early-2000s models tend to attract more owner-reported problems, but a specific year isn’t universally the most problematic.

Understanding the reliability picture

To understand where problems tend to surface, it helps to look at the Explorer by generation and summarize the common failure points reported by owners and noted in recall data. This approach shows how age and design changes affect maintenance needs.

First generation (1991–1994)

In early Explorers, owners commonly reported issues with transmission behavior, drivetrain wear, and some rust and electrical quirks as mileage climbs. These models are now aging, so high-mileage examples can show more wear than newer vehicles.

• Common issues reported by owners include transmission shifting concerns and drivetrain wear.


• Electrical system quirks such as failed window motors or door locks are occasionally noted.


• Rust and body sheet-metal wear can appear in older examples.

Overall, these early units are the oldest and have reliability challenges tied to age rather than design alone.

Second generation (1995–2001)

Owners frequently reported engine and transmission problems, door lock/electrical issues, and suspension wear as these models aged. The popularity of four-wheel-drive configurations also meant more drivetrain maintenance in some trims.

• Frequent reports of transmission problems and rough shifting.


• Electrical complaints, including instrument cluster and power equipment issues.


• Suspension and steering components wearing with mileage.

For this generation, aging components can drive the perception of higher problem rates, particularly when the vehicle has high mileage.

Third generation (2002–2010)

The 2002–2010 Explorer went through substantial updates, but owner forums and reliability trackers note persistent transmission and engine-related complaints in some model years, as well as electrical and blend-air conditioning concerns in others.

• Reported transmission reliability issues in certain model years.


• Engine misfires or rough idle issues occasionally documented.


• Electrical and HVAC problems appear in some year-to-year variations.

Given the broader production span, reliability varies by year; some late-2000s models show fewer widely reported problems than early 2000s examples.

Fourth generation (2011–2019)

With a modernized platform and updated components, this generation generally shows improved reliability in aggregate reviews, though some model-year quirks remain, including transmission behavior and powertrain software updates—areas that benefited from later fixes and recalls.

• Improvements in overall reliability compared with the earlier second generation, according to some consumer data.


• Some model-year-specific claims include transmission behavior and software-related updates.


• Electrical and infotainment system issues are occasionally reported, typically covered under warranties or recalls.

As with any aging vehicle, mileage and maintenance history strongly influence outcomes in this generation.

Fifth generation (2020–present)

The current lineup has benefited from modern diagnostics, engineering refinements, and updated safety features. Reliability data show generally strong performance, though new models can still experience teething issues in the first year or two of production.

• Early reports tend to focus on software updates and optional features rather than fundamental mechanical failures.


• Owners occasionally report tire, brake wear, and infotainment quirks typical for new SUVs.


• Recalls occur intermittently as new production runs ramp up, but are tracked and fixed under warranty.

For shoppers, the latest model years typically offer the best reliability, provided there is thorough pre-purchase inspection and clear recall status.

What to check when buying a used Explorer

When evaluating a used Ford Explorer, you should assess both the model year and the vehicle’s maintenance history. The following steps help you identify potential problem years and avoid costly surprises.

• Review service records for transmission service, engine work, and major maintenance (fluids, timing components, and drives).


• Check for open recalls and ensure they have been addressed; confirm with the VIN via NHTSA or Ford’s recall portal.


• Run a vehicle history report (Carfax or AutoCheck) to confirm prior accidents and title status.


• Have a qualified mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection focused on the transmission, engine, suspension, steering, and electrical system.

These checks help you gauge whether a particular Explorer year is well-maintained or carries higher risk of future problems.

Summary

There isn't a single worst year for the Ford Explorer. Reliability varies by generation and maintenance history, with early-2000s models often showing more owner-reported problems in several datasets. For buyers, the prudent approach is to examine the specific vehicle’s service history, recalls, and inspection results rather than assuming a year is inherently bad. A thorough pre-purchase check and understanding of the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory will typically reveal the true risk level of any given Explorer.

What year did explorers have transmission problems?

Quick Answer: 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006. The 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 models have the most Ford Explorer transmission problems.

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 year did Ford Explorers have problems?

Ford Explorer years to avoid include the 2002-2006 models, primarily due to severe transmission and engine issues, and the 2016 and 2020 models, which suffered from poor quality control leading to problems with transmissions, electronics, and structural components. Other years to be wary of are the 2013 (transmission and exhaust leaks), and 2017 (continued transmission issues). 
This video discusses the Ford Explorer years to avoid and common problems: 59scar PROblemsYouTube · Nov 2, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2002-2006: This entire generation is frequently cited for being unreliable. 
  • 2002: The most criticized model, with significant complaints about transmission failure. 
  • 2003-2005: Continued problems with transmissions, engines, and electrical systems were reported. 
  • 2006: Known for major engine and transmission issues, and several recalls. 
• 2013: Plagued by transmission failures, rough shifting, and exhaust fumes entering the cabin. 
• 2016: Faced numerous quality control issues, including faulty fuel tanks, suspension components, poor interior assembly, and problems with the 3.5L V6 engine. 
• 2017: Continued the trend of transmission problems seen in earlier years. 
• 2020: Experienced quality control problems, including transmission issues, recalls for control arm bolts, and poor fit and finish. 

What to look for in reliable models

• Generally, the years that appear most reliable include 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2019. 
• Newer models (2021 and beyond) tend to have better reliability ratings, although they are still under warranty. 
• If buying a used model, always get a pre-purchase inspection and review the maintenance history. 

What is the best and worst year of Ford Explorer?

The best Ford Explorer years are 2007–2009, 2010, and 2019, with the most reliable models being 2007–2009 and newer models like 2019 and 2023. The worst years are 2002–2006 and 2011–2019, with the latter having reported electrical and steering issues. The 2002–2006 models are particularly notorious for transmission problems.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the best years for Ford Explorer: 51sNexologyYouTube · Sep 17, 2025
Best years for Ford Explorer

• 2007–2009: These years are frequently cited for their reliability. 
• 2010: This model year marked the end of the third generation and is known for reliability, with strong V6 and V8 engine options. 
• 2019: A solid choice for a newer model with good reliability ratings. 
• 2023: Another strong contender in recent years. 

Worst years for Ford Explorer

• 2002–2006: This period is widely considered the least reliable, primarily due to common transmission failures and other issues like engine problems, electrical malfunctions, and suspension wear. 
• 2011–2019: While generally more reliable than the early 2000s, some model years in this range had complaints about electrical system issues. The 2012–2017 models, in particular, received a high number of complaints, with the 2015 model year standing out for steering problems. 
• 2020: The first model year of the current design, which did not rate well due to issues with the powertrain and other components. 

This video explains why you should avoid some Ford Explorer years: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · Nov 2, 2025