Ford Explorer Years to Avoid

It hasn't always been a smooth ride for the Ford Explorer family SUV. Which model years are safe to buy and which ones should be avoided like the plague?
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
We all know the well-respected three-row SUV that’s become a staple for American families. But not all Ford Explorer model years are created equal. The 2011 model? We’d take it. A Ford Explorer from 2021? Not so much.
Check out which years to avoid one of
Ford
’s longest-running vehicles.

Repair costs outweigh the value

Whatever you do, don’t get the 2002 Ford Explorer. With more complaints than any other vehicle, about 1,500 of them involve issues with the transmission. 
“Things as major as transmission failure, transmission slipping, the O/D light blinking, or just difficulties shifting are all reported frequently,” according to
MotorBiscuit
. Even after an initial fix. 
Unless you’ve got the extra cash to repair or replace the 2002 transmission, just stay away
Unfortunately, from 2003 to 2006, issues with the Ford Explorer’s transmission continued. Though the newer models aren’t as bad as the 2002 version, there’s still been over 3,000 transmission complaints. Drivers experienced the transmission slipping, failing, and beyond.
As if that wasn’t enough, the problems for these model years (including 2002) don’t stop there. 
According to MotorBiscuit, “The cooling system, engine, body/paint, ac/heat, wheels, interior accessories, and even drivetrain problems are all trailing right behind the transmission.” Not to mention issues with the brakes, windows, and windshields. Sounds like a headache. 
The 2006 Ford Explorer is especially problematic, with almost 13,000 complaints submitted throughout the years. And of course, most dealt with transmission inadequacies. Problems from this model year tend to appear at lower mileage, and footing the huge bill for repairs did not sit well with owners. 
Even with the 2006 redesign, “Owners experienced hard shifting and lunging along with radiator failures,” according to MotorBiscuit. This often happened before the 50,000-mile mark and would cost at least $1,800 to be repaired. Radiator leaks could pop up after about 60,000 miles. 
And Ford Explorers from the 2004 model year often surprised owners with a cracked panel below the rear window.
MORE: The Even Bigger Version of Ford’s Biggest SUV: The Expedition Max
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Ford Explorers that are safe to buy

The good news is, if you’re interested in buying a used Ford Explorer, there are still plenty of safe and reliable model years to choose from. 
According to
CoPilot
, “Most of the models sold in the first generation (1991-1994), second-generation (1995-2001), fourth-generation (2006-2010), fifth-generation (2011-2019), and sixth-generation (2020-present) have recorded very few problems.” 
Just make sure you skip the 2006 model if you’re looking at the Explorer's fourth-generation options. 
We’re a fan of the 2008 Ford Explorer. It’s family-friendly, a joy to drive, and handles like a champ. It features a roomy and quiet interior that offers passengers lots of space. The explorer has plenty of storage and a durable towing and hauling rating.
The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
gave the 2008 Ford Explorer a 5 out of 5 for the frontal barrier crash and side barrier crash rating. And the vehicle ranked 3 out of 5 in its rollover rating. 
In 2011, transmission problems were no longer a major concern for Ford Explorers. And as the company transitioned into its fifth and sixth generations, fewer and fewer complaints were recorded. 
The 2011 Ford Explorer competes with other impressive midsize crossover and SUVs in the industry. With 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle is versatile and efficient. The 3.5-liter six-cylinder Explorer gets 18 miles in the city and 25 miles on the highway. With excellent fuel economy, you can expect your vehicle to last up to 200,000 miles.
If you’re looking for an exceptional upgrade, the 2013 Ford Explorer stands out from the pack. According to
WVDOT
, “Amazing features include the upscale and spacious cabin, substantial on-the-road dynamics, and notable high-tech features.” 
Owners will also enjoy a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and great fuel economy. The 2013 model also performed remarkably well on its crash test safety scores. Other notable model years include 2010, 2016, and 2019.

Insuring a family SUV

It’s not only important to choose the right vehicle for your family’s lifestyle, but it’s also crucial to get the right coverage to fit your driving needs. There are way too many family vacations to plan to be overcharged every month by your car insurance.
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