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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  2006 Explorer Limited - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By rateabc2001 - September 11 - 10:50 am

  All experiences are great. Traded in a 2002 Jeep Liberty, which is a much inferior rig in all regards.

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  2003 Explorer 4x4-XLS - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Arlene Harrell - September 11 - 10:00 am

  This is our third Explorer we have purchased. We also have owned three Ford trucks, ranging from the Ranger, F-150 and 250 Diesel. As we have owned Ford throughtout the years we have never had a problem with any of them. I guess we are a Ford family. I like my new Explorer and feel I will get excellent usage from it.When it is paid off it will be traded in on another Ford Product. There are a lot of features to choose from.

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  2010 Explorer long-term review! - 2010 Ford Explorer
  By golf - September 5 - 6:09 am

  Update from 70k to now 80k -- Bought XLT used in 2012 w/16384 mi. turned ~80k~! No problems to speak of. Been great! The 2010 is the last model year of this style before the new/current style came out in 2011, so youd think most every problem was worked out by 2010 :>) I bought a battery 1/16 to rpl orig. One set of tires around 45k is all. MPG rating of 14/20 is wrong - I consistently get 17.5 mpg around town [ in New England] and strictly hwy is 23+mpg...! All around excellent SUV; comfort, 7 passenger, rear AC, 4WD etc... The 200hp V6 is a very good engine. What it might lack in [V8-like] power, it makes up for in mpg and all other areas. And you feel safe driving it! AnFeels like a nice, good sized solid SUV that rides like a car! Whats your life worth, right :>) Problem areas [typical at 70k+ on most any vehicle]: 1.>- On the 2010 Expl - If you smell antifreeze or notice ever so slight wetness on top of engine at BASE of rad hose housing, its because housing for the thermostat is made of plastic and where bolts to manifold, gasket leaks. Theres a metal therm housing for sale, though what I did was simply add a small bottle of Stop Leak [pellets] to the radiator, think is about 12-16 oz.(?). No more small leak there. Note-Make SURE you shake bottle well and ENSURE the PELLETS go into the rad too-first time I tried it, I poured in half the bottle thinking that would do it, what didnt realize is none of the pellets went in-pellets heavy and sink to bottle bottom, SO drain/syphon 12-16 oz coolant out of the radiator [not overflow tank] and try stop leak. Prior to this, my rad CAP was bad [yes, really;>)] <$5 solved that-new cap. 2.> Common: Rear diff seal drips very slightly, forget specific name for it, costs about <$80? to have mech replace. 3.> People complain of 5 spd auto trans clunking on occasion. For me its been simply the re-engaging of the trans after coasting. Ex. Youre in traffic [5-20mph] you move up then coast, THEN gas again-thats when it may clunk back into gear - is in my case anyway, maybe 4x/yr. No problem with mine here at 80k. Change trans fluid, oil, and diff 80w gear and transfer case fluids, and coolant flush when needed and you should be good to go. Good luck.

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  explorer as a towed vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By doris leslie - September 5 - 2:00 am

  we previously owned a gmc jimmy. this vehicle rows much better and gives us better gas mileage. I love my eddie bauer explorer.

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  Fun but Noisy - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Blanston12 - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Good performance, comfortable to ride, very stable but corners slopy, interior noisy at freeway speed. Have had some problems under fixed under warrenty, rear wiper (x2), Transmission, gas tank sensor. It performed well but not sure I would buy another.

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  Average vehicle - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By ryster - September 3 - 2:00 am

  The 2000 Explorer is a comfortable, yet flawed vehicle. The ride is very good but there is just a bit too much wind and road noise. Build quality is only fair, as mine had two significant manufacturing defects. The B-Pillar was misaligned and the body welds were not correct. This necessitated 5 trips to the dealer to repair, with the 5th trip requiring the dealer to have the truck for 17 straight days. I was provided with a loaner free of charge. Aside from a horrendous rattle in the dash I have experienced no ther problems although it is gradually loosening up (creaks in the dash and door and other trim pieces). Performance is adequate, although there are times I wish for slightly more power. The truck will cruise easily on the interstate at 75-80. The seats are very comfortable. My truck, with the 4.0L OHV V6 averages 17-18 mpg in mixed driving. I have been doing my own oil changes with synthetic blend oil and have noticed improved and quieter engine performance. I would not hesitate to look at the 2002+ Explorer if I were considering a new SUV. However, I think I will go back to a mid or full-size sedan next time around. Disappointed with the high d

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  2003 Ford Explorer Report - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By terry730a - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Purchased 2003 Ford Explorer XLS new at Courtesy Ford...Got a great deal including $3000 rebate..Driveability, reliability, and ergonomically, it is first rate. It has good acceleration and gas mileage; averaging about 18-19 MPG with 89 Octance..Even tho 87 is recommended.It is a fun car and a hoot to drive..Great value in the field of SUVs--bar none...

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  Hate this Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By unhappywith Explorer - August 30 - 2:00 am

  Ive had nothing but problems with this truck. The interior lights never go on!! when the car sits and you open the door- nothing-darkness. ive taken it to get looked at several times and no one can help. The driver seat track has already been replaced but still the seat moves when you come to a quick stop or turn. Also several of the interior handles and cargo nets have broken.- as well as the homelink receiver. I would love to dump this SUV but the trade in value isnt close to what I still owe!! Never will I buy another Ford- for the high end model- Im more than disappointed

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  More trips to the shop than I expected - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By DML - August 30 - 2:00 am

  In two years I have been in for service many times.Every 2 months it just wont start until the 3rd time and has even died while in drive a couple times-no fix yet,had the A/C blender replaced-it was either really hot or cold,backdoor child lock was stuck on lock-couldnÂ’t get out from inside- replaced,rear window motor went out (maybe used 10 times)-replaced, and I just had the half shaft replaced.I buy new to avoid trips to the mechanic, but that really has not worked this time.

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  Very pleased with my Explorer Limited - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JCLJorgenson - August 30 - 2:00 am

  It shocks me how well this SUV drives. The steering feels so good that now when I drive other cars, it feels like they are lacking power steering. The audiophile sound system is the best "stock" stereo system I have heard! The door handles are placed near the front of the door so you need to pull the handle and push the door open with your elbow. The door locks are right underneath the handle and you can’t see the locks from where you are sitting looking down. So when I have guests, I need to remember to press the "unlock doors" switch for them or it wont be long before they start cursing at me to let them out.