Loading

What year is the Ford Explorer most reliable?

The Ford Explorer is one of the most popular and long-running SUV models on the market. When it comes to reliability, certain model years of the Explorer stand out as being more dependable than others. According to the available data, the Ford Explorer is most reliable in the 2020 model year.


Reliability Ratings for the Ford Explorer


The Ford Explorer has been in production since 1990, and over the decades, its reliability has varied. To determine the most reliable model year, we can look at expert reviews, consumer surveys, and data from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.


According to J.D. Power, the 2020 Ford Explorer received a reliability score of 4 out of 5, indicating "better than average" reliability. This was an improvement over previous model years, which had scored lower on reliability.


Consumer Reports also rated the 2020 Explorer as one of the more reliable models in its class, with a predicted reliability score of 4 out of 5. This was a significant jump from the 2019 model, which had received a lower reliability rating.


Factors Contributing to the 2020 Explorer's Reliability


There are a few key factors that contributed to the 2020 Ford Explorer being one of the most reliable model years:



  • Redesign and Improved Engineering: The 2020 Explorer underwent a complete redesign, which allowed Ford to address some of the reliability issues that had plagued previous generations of the SUV.

  • Fewer Reported Problems: Owners of the 2020 Explorer have reported fewer issues with the vehicle's powertrain, in-car electronics, and other key systems compared to earlier model years.

  • Mature Platform: The 2020 Explorer is built on a more mature platform that has been refined over time, contributing to its overall reliability.


While no vehicle is perfect, the data suggests that the 2020 Ford Explorer is one of the most reliable model years for this popular SUV. Buyers in the market for a used Explorer may want to prioritize the 2020 model year for its strong reliability ratings.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.