What year Ford Explorers have V8 engines?
V8 engines appeared in the Ford Explorer in two main periods: in the mid-1990s with a 5.0-liter V8, and in the early 2000s with a 4.6-liter V8. Since about 2005, no factory V8 option has been offered in the Explorer; Ford has used V6 and EcoBoost powertrains instead.
V8 options in the 1990s Explorer
During the late Gen 1 to Gen 2 transition, Ford offered a 5.0-liter V8 as an optional engine on certain Explorer models. This provided extra power for towing and acceleration, at the cost of fuel economy and maintenance typical of V8s at the time.
- 1993–1996: 5.0L V8 available on select trims (availability varied by market and build).
Availability depended on market and trim level, and not all 1993–1996 Explorers had the V8. If you’re unsure, check the vehicle’s VIN or original window sticker.
V8 options in the early 2000s Explorer
In the early 2000s, Ford offered a 4.6L V8 as an optional engine on some Explorer trims, aiming to improve power for towing and highway performance over the V6 options.
- 2002–2005: 4.6L V8 available on select trims (availability varied by market and build).
As with earlier V8s, verify with the dealer or VIN to confirm whether a specific Explorer had the V8 option.
Legacy, shifts, and current engine lineup
Since 2005, Ford Explorer models have not offered a factory V8 option. The brand shifted toward more efficient engines, using V6 and EcoBoost configurations to balance power and fuel economy. In the current lineup, the primary powertrains are a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, with the high-performance Explorer ST using the 3.0L EcoBoost V6.
Why Ford stopped offering V8s in the Explorer
Fuel economy standards, rising emissions requirements, and shifting consumer preferences prompted Ford to favor lighter, turbocharged six-cylinder engines over larger V8s for the Explorer. This aligns with the segment’s move toward efficiency without sacrificing capability.
Summary
In short, factory V8 power for the Ford Explorer occurred in two periods: 1993–1996 with the 5.0L V8, and 2002–2005 with the 4.6L V8. No factory V8 option has been offered in modern Explorers, which rely on EcoBoost V6 and turbocharged powertrains. If you’re shopping for a V8-equipped example, verify with the VIN or original paperwork to confirm the engine.
What Ford Explorer has a V8?
The Ford Explorer had a V8 engine in various models, primarily between the second generation (1996-2001) and the fifth generation (2011-2019). Key models with V8 options include the second-generation Explorer with its 5.0L V8 and the fifth generation's 4.6L V8, but modern Explorers do not have a V8 option.
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine of the 2009 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer: 49sShooting CarsYouTube · Aug 31, 2024
- Second Generation (1995-2001): This generation introduced a 5.0L V8 engine as an option for the 1996 model year and onwards.
- Third and Fourth Generations (2002-2010): The V8 engine continued to be available in these generations, with a 4.6L V8 being offered in models such as the 2004, 2007, and 2009 versions.
- Fifth Generation (2011-2019): The 4.6L V8 was available in the early part of this generation before being phased out in favor of new V6 options.
- Newer Models: The most recent Ford Explorer models, including the 2025 model, do not come with a V8 engine.
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.
Is the 2009 Ford Explorer a V6 or V8?
The base Explorer's V6 engine nets 210 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. The optional V8 creates 292 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. According to the EPA, the two-wheel drive Explorer achieves 14/20 mpg city/highway with the V6 engine and 15/21 mpg with the V8 engine.
What year was the Explorer bad?
2002-2006
The third generation of the Ford Explorer, particularly the 2002-2006 models, is widely considered the least reliable. These years were plagued with recurring issues. One of the most common problems was the transmission, with many owners experiencing slipping, hesitation, and complete breakdowns.
