Overview & Reviews

The Ford Explorer is widely regarded as the catalyst that started America's love affair with the SUV back in the early 1990s. Certainly there were SUVs before the Explorer, but they were mostly utilitarian in nature. The Explorer was the first go-to SUV for the Everyman. Throughout its life, the Ford Explorer has delivered versatility, a reasonable amount of comfort, affordability and, perhaps most importantly, more style than a station wagon or minivan. New or used, the justifiably popular Explorer should be part of any serious SUV search.

Current Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a large three-row SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers. There are four trim levels: base, XLT, Limited and Sport.

Though even the base version comes well-equipped, moving up the list provides luxuries such as leather seating, the Sync voice command system, a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry and upgraded audio systems. In addition to its potent engine, the Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension as well as unique interior/exterior trim details. Optional highlights (depending on trim level) include a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and even an automatic parallel-parking system. Stability control and a multitude of airbags are standard, with blind spot and collision warning systems available on upper trims.

A 3.5-liter 290-horsepower V6 is standard on all but the Sport trim, which comes with a turbocharged version good for 365 hp. Optional on all but the Sport is a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. All engines are hooked up to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but the Sport, which has all-wheel drive standard. The latter is optional for all other Explorers equipped with the 290-hp V6.

In reviews, we've found the Ford Explorer to be one of the best choices for a family-oriented SUV. It drives well, gets good fuel economy for its class and still retains the versatility that made people like SUVs in the first place. Fitted with most of its optional high-tech features, the Explorer is also one of the most advanced SUVs available, luxury brand or not. The Explorer's most notable downside is that it doesn't provide as much third-row and cargo space as some rival large crossover SUVs, and its MyFord Touch electronics interface can be finicky to use.

Used Ford Explorer Models
The current-generation Explorer bowed for 2011. Among the big changes was a switch from body-on-frame to unibody architecture for more carlike driving dynamics and improved space efficiency. Changes have been minimal since; the turbocharged four-cylinder engine wasn't offered until 2012, while the powerful Sport trim didn't debut until the following year.

The third-generation Explorer ran from 2002-'10. A longer wheelbase and an independent rear suspension allowed room for a fairly accommodating third-row seat while also improving ride and handling performance. A 210-hp V6 was joined by a new 4.6-liter 239-hp V8, and both were matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Initial trim levels included the XLS, XLT and more upscale Limited and Eddie Bauer.

For 2003, a few new trim levels debuted, including XLS Sport and the NBX (no boundaries experience -- we're not making that up). The latter came with all-terrain tires, special trim and a Yakima roof rack. An off-road package became available as well, complete with a beefed-up suspension and skid plates. The following year, equipment levels were shuffled, stability control was made available on most trims (previously it could only be had on V8 models) and Limited and Eddie Bauer models got a quad bucket seating option. The stability control system was upgraded with roll stability control for 2005.

For 2006, a substantial update took place that included revised styling inside and out, an improved frame, enhanced safety systems and a more powerful V8. The latter made 292 hp (up from the previous 239 hp) though the 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 continued unchanged. The V8 came paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. Safety equipment was upgraded, too, as front-seat side airbags and stability control were made standard on all Explorers. More recent Explorers benefited from the arrival of the voice-activated Sync music/phone interface (2008) and a revised navigation system (2009).

In general we liked this Explorer and found value in the excellent ride and handling characteristics, comfortable and roomy cabin and, on V8 models, strong power and high towing capacity. Though later outclassed by newer crossover SUVs in terms of comfort and design, this Explorer is a solid pick, particularly if you plan to use a V8 model for towing.

Model years 1995-2001 represent the second generation Explorer. Though neither as refined nor as powerful as the generation that followed, this group is still a respectable choice for an SUV. For most of this generation's run, three engines were available: a standard 160-hp V6, an optional 210-hp V6 ('97 and later) and a 210-hp 5.0-liter V8. The familiar XL, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited were the available trims, and there was a two-door Explorer known as the Sport. Editorial reviews of the time noted that the Explorer had a comfortable cabin and decent utility but fared poorly in terms of road handling and off-road ability.

The original Ford Explorer debuted in 1990 as a 1991 model, and it replaced the Bronco II in Ford's lineup. It achieved instant success in a market that it ultimately defined, if not created. Based on the Ford Ranger pickup, the original Explorer had the winning combination of size, style and utility that people wanted in an SUV. It came as the volume-selling four-door or a less popular two-door. Initially, just XLS and XLT trim levels were available. In 1992, an Eddie Bauer edition joined the lineup, and a Limited model followed shortly thereafter. For power, these Explorers had a 155-hp V6. Output went up slightly to 160 hp in 1993; this was also the year Ford made antilock brakes standard equipment.

User Reviews:

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  Not found on road dead - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By LMS - August 16 - 10:49 pm

  I woud say that this SUV has proven it is reliable and durable. I put over 400,000 miles on the vehicle in 10 years. The mechanical difficulties that I encountere were to do with the breaks and the roaters. I have replaced them 3 times. The engine has been very reliable. It has been comfortable to ride in. I do not like the rear seat and the shortness of the back for neck support, but for some this is not an issue. I would have liked the seats to fold down compleatly for hauling purposes. The leather has held up and is just now begining to crack and tear in some places. The gas mileage is ok, but could be better. My Explorer was never found on road dead.

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  Reliable and has taken some abuse - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By MBR - August 16 - 5:51 pm

  Bought this vehicle used in 2002. Now has 100,000 miles and have not had any seriously major problems. Have had to replace ball joints but Ive run some heavy treaded Mud Tires for the past 2 years. It goes good in the mud and has ample ground clearance. Even though this is a great daily driver it is rugged enough to take you to some serious back woods adventures. Dont be afraid to get this vehicle off road.

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  Cockpit is uncomfortable - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By knee hurts - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 97 explorer which was a great vehicle. The 04 eddie bauer I bought, fot the most part is a stronger, more responsive suv. However if your 6 feet tall or taller the cockpit is very uncomfortable. They shortened the seats and made them too hard. My knee constantly hits the center console and when I switch from gas to brake pedal my knee hits the keys hanging from the ignition. My advice drive it on a trip of at leasr 200 miles before you buy. I will be trading mine next year.

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  xlt 98 - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By nick lupu - August 14 - 10:00 am

  1. 44,000 miles: replaced both drive shafts. 2. 50,000 miles: replaced transfer-case. 3. 60,000 miles: repaced upper left arm an d all schock-absorbers. 4.Clonking and radlle noise in the front end still there. 5. 40,000 miles: defective manifold and lifters. 6. 60,000 miles: defective ball-joints front left.

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  I love my Explorer! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Christina - August 13 - 1:54 pm

  For an SUV the mileage is pretty good. Had a recall issue about six months in, but they fixed it without a problem and have had no problems since. I put a lot of miles on my car and it has held up well with nothing but general maintenance. I would recommend an Explorer to anyone.

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  2003 Explorer LTD - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Tom - August 13 - 8:52 am

  In the last year, this car has givem me fits. The exterior is fine, but I have had multiple problems. CD player malfunctions. AC does not work when outside temperature passes 85. If its hot outside and I am on the highway, the temperature gauge somtetimes spikes to "H" and I get dashboard warnings. But several checks to repair places and two dealers could not correct the problem. The back bumper mounted sensors also stopped working after two years.

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  Monochrome Black Rocketship Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Commander - August 11 - 7:02 pm

  Great Truck, great V-8 economy. Its fun to drive, sounds great roaring up to speed, and hits 60 in just about 8 seconds. Factory tires began to dry-rot after 3 years and 35k miles, replaced with Michelins, averaging 18.5 mpg. I wish RSC was available prior to the 05 model. I wish we had rear a/c in the AZ summers. I love the factory sound system in the Eddie Bauer. Im glad I didnt pop for the 4x4. Friend with an 05 4.0 4x4 is only averaging 15 mpg.

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  Chevy Guy - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Chevy Guy - August 10 - 10:00 am

  I finally gave in and bought this Ford SUv for my wife and kids. What a surprise and pleasure it is to drive. the V8 is almost too powerful for what I need but great to have when you need it.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Happy Travelers - August 10 - 2:00 am

  We also own a Lexus RX 330. The Eddie Bauer is right there in performance, features and quality. The V-8 is a must. The motor is quite and the ride is very good. No problems to date. The only problem is the message screen. It is much too small and cannot be read in the sunshine. There are data on this screen that needs to be seen.

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  Explorer has wheel bearing issues - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Phil Gilbert - August 8 - 11:02 am

  Like the truck except front wheel bearings need replacing after only 52,000 miles at a cost of $1,000. Ford would not assist, not covered by warranty. Dealer says that most issues are rear end failure with low miles. This is clearly a design or parts issue that Ford should assist owner with Will not purchase another one.