When did Ford Explorer go unibody?
The Ford Explorer, one of the most popular SUVs in the United States, transitioned from a body-on-frame to a unibody construction in 2011. This shift in the vehicle's architecture marked a significant change in the Explorer's design and engineering.
The Evolution of the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer was first introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the Ford Bronco II. It was initially built on a body-on-frame platform, which is a traditional SUV construction method where the body and frame are separate components. This design provided the Explorer with robust off-road capabilities and a rugged, truck-like feel.
However, as consumer preferences shifted towards more car-like ride and handling characteristics, Ford decided to redesign the Explorer for the 2011 model year. The company moved the SUV to a unibody platform, where the body and frame are integrated into a single, unified structure.
The Benefits of the Unibody Design
The transition to a unibody construction offered several advantages for the Ford Explorer:
- Improved Ride and Handling: The unibody design provided a more refined and car-like driving experience, with better handling, responsiveness, and ride comfort compared to the previous body-on-frame setup.
- Increased Fuel Efficiency: The unibody construction, combined with other engineering improvements, helped the Explorer achieve better fuel economy ratings than its body-on-frame predecessor.
- Enhanced Safety: The unibody design allowed for more effective crumple zones and improved crash energy absorption, enhancing the overall safety of the vehicle.
- Increased Cargo Space: The unibody platform enabled a more efficient use of interior space, resulting in increased cargo capacity for the Explorer.
While the unibody design sacrificed some of the Explorer's off-road capabilities, it better aligned the SUV with the needs and preferences of the majority of its customers, who prioritized on-road performance, comfort, and practicality over extreme off-road prowess.
The Impact of the Unibody Transition
The shift to a unibody platform was a significant milestone in the Ford Explorer's history, as it marked the SUV's transition from a more rugged, truck-based vehicle to a more refined, car-like offering. This change helped the Explorer remain competitive in the evolving SUV market and continue its success as one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States.
What year did Ford have a unibody truck?
Ford's unibody pickup trucks were relatively low-production vehicles, and they were produced only from 1961 to 1963.
What year did Ford Explorer go unibody?
| Ford Explorer | |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Body-on-frame (1991–2010) Unibody (2011–present) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Ford Bronco II |
| Successor | Ford Territory (Oceania) |
Why did Ford stop making unibody trucks?
Additionally, repair costs needed to maintain Ford's first unibody pickup trucks posed a challenge to owners. Considering that the chassis and body were a single unit, significant damage to any part would entail repairs for the entire body, making the units impractical for long-term use.
Is a Ford Explorer body-on-frame?
2011-2019 Explorer
In a major change, Ford moved the Explorer from a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame platform to a car-based, unitized front-wheel-drive platform. Though still marketed as an SUV, it was now more accurately a crossover.
What year did Ford go to aluminum frame?
2015
In 2015, Ford introduced the aluminum-bodied F-150 and spent the last six years refining mass market aluminum manufacturing best practices.
What is the biggest problem with the Ford Explorer?
Transmission issues are among the most frequently reported problems with 2020-2023 Ford Explorers. These issues include harsh and jerky shifting, delayed gear engagement, and transmission slipping out of gear.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
What Are the Least Reliable Ford Explorer Years? No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models.
What is the best year of Ford Explorer to buy?
We recommend buying a used Ford Explorer from the fourth generation, or model years 2006 to 2010. Roughly 35 years and six generations in, the Ford Explorer remains a serious contender in the midsize SUV space.
Is body-on-frame better than unibody?
Body on frame vehicles are heavier, which means they can be slower and don't offer the same fuel efficiency perks as unibody frame vehicles. Not as safe. Unfortunately, it's easier to integrate safety features into a unibody vehicle.
What year did the Ford Explorer have a bad transmission?
The 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 models have the most Ford Explorer transmission problems. The other models offer a much better experience on the road with this valuable component.
