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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  Great dependable vehicle, bulletproof - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By JohnnyMartin - April 21 - 2:34 pm

  Well I sold my 1997 Ford Explorer with 292,000 that was an excellent car and bought an 05 with 4x4. My job is very hard on my car. I drive up the side of mountains, through mud holes, over steep sharp rocks, and through swampy areas. My Explorer has been in the Rocky Mountains, Nebraska fields, and Wyoming plains in winter covered in snow. I put an average of 40,000 miles a year on my Ford. I now have 62,000 miles and my Explorer has always gotten me home. I hit a large mudhole one night at 3am and spun the truck sideways and i hit a pole, nearly rolled it, smashed 2 windows, my hood, a fender, and 1 tire. I patched the tire and it got me home 30 miles. Very dependable.

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  burning bag on your doorstep - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By William Clay Ford - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Chronologically, we have had to repair/replace: -tranny (1 week after purchase) -transmission valve body -Throttle body -New keyless entry keypad -Air sensor (once it fails you are rewarded with an exhilirating 30 minute period during which the truck will not start) -Fuel Pump -Throttle body -New tires (the original firestones had a nasty tendency to kill you) -Ball Joints (No grease points. if they ever need grease, they need to be replaced. Top notch!) Currently, I am eagerly anticipating having to replace another throttle body, as the car stalls every so often now, and well, it has been 10,000 miles since I replaced it. I guess its time.

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  Exceptional Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Sam Shafer, Jr. - April 19 - 12:47 am

  Great vehicle, fun to drive on all roads and in all weather. Wonderful utility, best utility of any mfg in type class. Good service experience at dealer. Reasonable economy for this type vehicle given what is available on the market today. Has Class II hitch and tow package, handles trailers very well. Great brakes - lasted 50,000 miles before replacing pads on front, rears still on. Great overall vehicle and we checked all makes prior to buying this Ford product.

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  Nice vehicle...but oh, those seats! - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By paul dekoekkoek - April 13 - 1:50 am

  Full disclosure--Im reviewing based on a week traveling with this as a rental vehicle as sort of an extended test drive before making an expensive purchase! Maybe this wont get published as a result and interpret accordingly. Ive read all the online reviews of the 2016 model, looked at all the specs, compared to several other competing models that Ive researched and test driven, and had some extended seat time before arriving at my conclusions. Disregard required ratings for things that can only be evaluated with months and years of ownership time like reliability, maintenance costs, etc. under the "Reliability" and "Value" categories. Overall, this is a great vehicle and I understand why many people ultimately decide to purchase one. It has the combination of luxury, styling, technology and performance thats hard to beat. The turbo v6 is a treat and I averaged 22-23mpg across over 500 miles of driving 70-75mph. City mileage in true urban/suburban traffic leaves a bit to be desired as I was more in the 12-14mpg range then, though perhaps not appreciably different from the normally aspirated standard v6. I also appreciate the lane-keeping assist (though not always reliable even when lanes clearly painted and favorable conditions for it to work). Most of the electronics and "Sync" were good, though I kept getting a "usb input error" message on screen from one of the charging ports used to charge phones that I dont get anywhere else. Will chalk that up to Microsoft and perhaps the next generation Sync3 on next years model will improve some of these little annoyances. The highway ride is quiet and smooth, with minimal steering adjustments required to keep it tracking straight. I enjoyed driving it and all the electronic parking aids are useful though I didnt try the parallel parking assist. In the interest of keeping this review fairly short, wont go into all the details of everything I checked, but overall found the technology and features in this model to be very good. Its not going in my garage, however, for one simple reason--seat comfort. I plan for this vehicle to be the family roadtrip hauler and this is the fatal flaw for me. I can nitpick a few other items that I wasnt thrilled about, but could learn to live with, but seat comfort is a major problem area for me at least. Even with the Platinums "Nirvana" leather and seemingly infinite amount of adjustment (including massaging seats), I eventually developed significant lower back pain over the course of many consecutive hours behind the wheel. Im not sure if the highly inboard dead pedal placement is part of the equation, but the seat cushions contours felt too narrow and the bottom cushion too short (at 6 1", Im not tall enough to expect that to be an issue) resulting in sciatica symptoms. I tried to wish them away as I really liked the vehicle enough to strongly consider buying one. Could just be the way it fits me, though Im apparently not alone given what Ive read here and elsewhere. For reference, both the Dodge Durango and Toyota Highlander (the latter with its inflatable front seat edge extender for more thigh support) feel much more comfortable to me. There may be other vehicles in this class with even better seat comfort, though I have ruled them out for other reasons. My recommendation--try to get some extended seat time to confirm long-haul comfort if traveling on long trips is part of the intended use. Such a nice vehicle, though it wont work for me.

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  132,000 miles and counting - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By jlppimb - April 8 - 1:57 pm

  I bought the SUV new in 97. Have taken it off road a couple times and the truck was awesome. With higher mileage some things have started to wear out as is expected. The fuel mileage stinks, but what do you expect, its not a compact car so get used to it. Mileage can be increased by adding a new air filter and changing the computer chip if you want. I will hate the day I have to get rid of the truck but I know its coming soon.

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  They are good until they start to have problems - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By gus heim - April 8 - 6:47 am

  I have had this car for 14 years bought it fro my granddaughter, she needed help! Ehis model was recalled when new because it had a tendency to catch on fire! never had a problem until I needed scheduled maintenance, AND when the transmission finally went out at 123,000 miles. I dont drive very much! A few years ago, I decided to change the spark plugs and couldnt get anyone except the dealer to do it, Very expensive! YOU or I can not get the back plugs out to replace on the V6 4 liter! When the trans. had problems the maintenance is so expensive I decided to replace it myself! It is called the exploder by the shops that work on them. Badly designed and the updates on the 5e55r transmission change the design and engineering to make up for the defects in the original design., original doesnt pump enough oil to lubricate correctly. (No such thing as a recall on this transmission) .Designed badly! The removal of the trans is practically impossible FROM THE BOTTOM for normal people because you must cut the exhaust system out because everything is welded together including the exhaust pipe bolts. (there is very little space to loosen anything) Aluminum engine with iron exhaust manifold is a serious problems, when you loosen bolts they could break easily inside the head! I did the job! and now I will sell because it is a maintenance problem in the future,planned obsolescence! even though beautiful, with a better heavy duty transmission NOW) it is too difficult to work on because of the way it was engineered and put together at the factory,Too complicated,badly designed and hard to fix. BUT , par for the course today.. When I was fixing this SUV I drove my 69 DART GT I HAVE had FOR 40 years! They dont make them like this old car anymore, The question is WHY ? The Explorer is functional and is attractive and comfortable but it is designed to be replaced,not designed to last a long time. These types of vehicles are forced on the people by EPA , I Believe , but all we want is something we can fix and that lasts! 4 wheel drive and automatic, if not necessary is simply in the way of maintenance in the future

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  94 XL 4dr Explorer - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By steve - April 8 - 12:06 am

  An awesome SUV, great off road and in the snow. Only qualms are fuel economy, stiff ride, and lack of power.

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  Pretty Good So Far - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By explorerowner - April 6 - 2:14 pm

  I bought the Explorer over the Cherokee, even though the Cherokee had more options, at a lower price. My truck drives very well, and has incurred very few problems. The paint job of the vehicle is another issue. My black paint is cracking on the roof and hood of the car. I have always washed and waxed the car thoroughly, and wish this would not happen. The paint on the roof racks is also coming off.

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  My 1997 Ford Explorer - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By w4abw - April 5 - 9:53 am

  I bought my 1997 Eddie Bauer 4WD new. It was great for about 4 years. I had put 16,000 miles on it when the factory warranty expired and had zero problems. After the warranty expired the SUV went nuts. Heater quit because of defective blend door and blend door motor. Rear lights went out because of defective wiring (can you believe) and the check engine light would come on and go off as often as a US Senator sticks out his hand for a contribution. On top of that the Ford roll over problem appeared with both Ford and Firestone pointing fingers at each other. When the SUV was about 6 years old the dash lights began to fail one at a time. Now the dash lights are mostly all out. Hood now fails.

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  Dont buy an Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Explorer Headache - April 1 - 6:39 am

  Our rotors warped four (4) times with in 10,000 miles. We had trouble out of the transmission, and various other parts and components. Im pretty sure that we will never buy an Explorer again. We had nothing but a headache and terrible fuel economy (14 miles per gallon). We eventually had to go through the Dispute Resolution Program and won against Ford Motor Co. They had to buy the vehicle back.