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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  This Beast is a Beauty - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Patrick J. Richmond - October 4 - 6:53 am

  Ive owned six different trucks in the past 15 years from a 1990 Chevy Blazer to a 1992 Toyota 4Runner, a 1995 and 1997 Ford Explorer and a few pickup trucks in between, but this one crushes them all. Awesome styling inside and out, very well thought out ergonomics. Fits me (6 feet 2 inches) and my wife (5 feet 6 inches) equally well. Very comfortable on long trips, very quiet on the highway, good power (with the 4.6L) for hauling a heavy load. Second row Captains chairs and third row power fold-down seats are clutch with three kids and gear.

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  Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By 4x4 XPLR - October 1 - 10:00 am

  This is my third explorer and its been the best out of the three. This one a 2003 rides a lot better than my 1998, and 2000 that i had previously owned. Although I miss the 302 5.0L V8 the 4.0L I have now still has enough power and acceleration. The 2003 performs well on and off road and in hazardous weather conditions such as snow, down- poors, and is a fun car to cruise around in on nice days with the sun- roof open. Overall I like the new explorer I feel ford did a good job redesigning it.

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  buds review - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By bud - October 1 - 10:00 am

  I got the v-8 with the tow package as I have a boat to pull. I am impressed with the performance and the high quality of the fit and finish. I have had the vehicle for over 3 months and have not found one defect.

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  Best SUV especially for value - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By FacialBlaster7 - October 1 - 10:00 am

  This years Exlorer included remarkable handling,ergonomic,style and comfort improvements over my 99 exlorer. Loves deep snow and rain. I am buying a 2005 Explorer for my wife.

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  Good Car - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Taylor - September 30 - 4:03 pm

  I love driving my SUV but it has been plagued with problems. All were fixed by the dealer under warranty. They gave us an extended warranty to compensate for all the problems. However, the transmission has been slipping for over a year and the dealership cannot duplicate the problem to fix it. I agree with the other posts. If Ford has had so many complaints about the transmission, they should recall it to encourage customer satisfcation and future sales.

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  my ford - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Martin Smith - September 28 - 1:46 pm

  fun to drive,fast,tows trailer with ease,great for snow, drag racing at stop lights,looks cool

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  2003 Ford Explorer NBX - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Herm - September 27 - 3:19 am

  Purchased this vehicle new in November 2002. Currently has 145,000 miles on it. Rear end always had a whine which was especially noticeable around 60 mph, but a few years ago, I changed to more highway friendly tires which reduced the whine. I did not know this model has this issue until I read other reviews here. When the air conditioner is off, it still seems to blow cooler air as I think the way it is designed air flow continues past the coils into the cabin, so you have to have the heat on a low setting to counteract it. Had the transmission rebuilt at 115,000 miles. The dealer wanted over $4,000 for the rebuild, AAMCO did it for $2,600 and gave me a two year warranty. The gas gauge has never worked correctly, but it is intermittent. Took it in years ago under warranty, but the dealer could not find anything wrong with it. I just make sure I gas it up once a week. It has the rear window frame crack like every other NBX/XLT I have seen on the road. This is a design error which Ford should have fixed, but now that the vehicle is 15 years old, who cares (I read on another website some owners are pursuing a class action lawsuit). When the car was new, I used to get 15 mph in town and 21 on the freeway at 70 mph. Nowadays, I get about 17-18 mph for combined driving. My major complaint is the Ford dealership here in Colorado Springs. I do not trust them, so I take my vehicle in for service elsewhere now that it is not under warranty. The dealer here is very high priced, and is ALWAYS suggesting repairs for a couple of thousand dollars (e.g., new Macpherson struts. When I ask what is wrong with the original struts, the answer is nothing, we recommend you replace them based upon mileage. Struts are high tensile steel which should last the life of the vehicle in my opinion). Anyway, I good vehicle. I like to drive it around as it still has pep and power, and has always had a nice sound system. Sits up high too. One more issue. The airbag warning light comes on occasionally, but I think it is because the connection under the seat has come loose over the years, so I reach under there and squeeze it. That seems to take care of it. No body rust, but the paint on the posts did not take long to degrade after only a couple of years. I use Chevron Techron every 6 months, rotate the tires at every oil change, and change the oil every 5,000 miles. And I pretty much follow Fords other recommendations for maintenance.

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  Another Throttle Body Issue - VERY Dangerous - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Explorer29 - September 26 - 12:43 am

  My 2016 Explorer only has 7,300 miles and hasnt even had its first oil change yet. Last week, while driving on a major highway at 70mph in the center lane, it just shut off. Im so lucky that I didnt cause an accident. Finally got it working again and was able to get home. The dealer scheduled it for service but didnt seem concerned and it would be a week before they could see it. The next day, it did it again on another major road 4 TIMES. I barely made it home and then called a tow truck. Its been at the dealer now for 6 days. The Throttle Body Sensor is on backorder (probably from so many cases) and they have no idea when it will be in. They would not offer a rental car because I didnt pay for the extended warranty. So not only was this VERY dangerous, Im now without a vehicle for almost a week or more b/c of this. Ford should at least offer a rental car.

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  2002 Explorer is a Lemon - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By fordjunk - September 22 - 6:00 pm

  When we purchased our 02 Explorer in 03, we were so happy we found an affordable SUV with plenty of room, power and comfort. Little did we know it was an ABSOLUTE LEMON! Luckily, we purchased the extended warranty that covered the MANY problems we had within the first couple years of ownership. The vehicle now has about 87,000 miles on it and the transmission IS COMPLETELY SHOT! $3,100 later, we are wishing we had spent the extra money and bought a Toyota.

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  Worst Vehicle Ever Owned! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By noseylarge102 - September 14 - 4:03 am

  First of all do not buy Ford brand vehicles; Mercury is a way better bet. The interior of this vehicle is very uncomfortable with the nylon cactus seats, and it hurts with shorts on, Second the flex fuel v6 stinks with gas mileage and power, third the trim is very cheap; it has black handles on a silver truck and all black trim - my 1992 Sable looked better than this truck.