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 Great - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By explorer - April 16 - 7:57 pm

  Ok car in theory, but not built very well. Console cover broke off after a few days, power windows almost have stopped working and take a long time to put up. Transmission shot at 75,000 miles. Multiple blown head gaskets, ABS problems, AC compressor almost killed engine when accidentally switched on for a minute. The list goes on and on.

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  high pitched noise 2009 - 2009 Ford Explorer
  By high pithed noise - April 13 - 4:34 pm

  We havent had this new vehicle but 6 month already we hear a high pitched noise that is so loud that everyone stares. You would expect to see a clunker for the noise that is heard. We have taken it to the dealership but the noise goes away. We will soon be driving 2000 miles and am afraid for our safety. The mechanics at Ford simply took off wheels and put them back on only to have the same noise. They should investigate this problem or do more.

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  Money Pit - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By MissouriEric - April 12 - 9:34 pm

  Currently, my ABS light, Advance Trac, and 4x4 lights are on so Im going to have to get that fixed now. In 2007 - wheel bearings (no big deal). In 2008 - motor blew up. Changed oil every 4,000 - 6,000 miles. In 2009 - transmission was rebuilt. Never buying another Explorer. Never had these problems with a Ford before. My family members worked at a Ford assembly plant so I always bought Fords. This may be my last Ford.

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  No More Fords - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Jim - April 12 - 2:38 pm

  Here is the issue..bought new 2006 Ford Explorer thought Id buy American big big mistake numerous mechanical problems latest is the transmission. (Numerous problems with Radiator has leak-could be another $1,000.) Dealer advises could be low of $1,700- $3,000. to repair/replace. Many Internet sites from buyers suggest this is a manufacturing defect some suggest the updated operating software could have helped both for the trans and the radiator. SUV has only 29,000 miles on it check the internet 100s of problems with the transmission. Ford consumer services really doesnt care. I will never buy a Ford product again. I am shopping foreign SUVs now.

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  Do not buy a 2003 Ford exploder - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Bigjimmy - April 12 - 12:28 pm

  Since I purchased this car used for $11K Ive spent another $12k in repairs the transmission needed to be rebuilt the engine a moth later both rear bearings went out causing the knuckles to get damaged Ive replaced the A/C compressor THREE TIMES in 3 years the fuel pump went out the wiring is bad the stereo has CDs in its changer that will never come out again the check engine light goes on every two weeks or so the tailgate has a crack where the (Fix Or Repair Daily) emblem is and it gets lousy mileage costing me about $100.00 a week in gas alone just to drive to work. I HATE this car but thanks to all the money Ive spent fixing it, I cant afford to buy something else.

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  3rd XLT - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tim - April 11 - 8:31 pm

  Have had three Explorers since the first in 91, No unusual trouble with any of them. The latest, a 2002 has been with us the longest 103,000 + miles. Just replaced the rear struts, the only other real expense was tires at 75,000 miles. Bought all 3 new and was pleased with every one. Quality is job one - well done!

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  Still going at 300,000! - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By Jeff - April 8 - 3:32 pm

  Yes! 304,000 miles and still going! The gas mileage is at 14.6 right now. Original engine...replaced transmission four years ago at $1300. A little rust at the rear rocker panels. Clear coat is gone. Seats are just now getting uncomfortable. Replaced the radius arm bushings several times. This has been one good vehicle!

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  Dont Buy - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By XpLoDeR - April 6 - 4:28 pm

  First of all its gas sucker to the max i have the 4.0 liter and its still sucks gas at 200 miles to the tank its at 184k and is drove a little rough but its had minor problems but i can tell the transmission is going i had to replace the alternator, belt, idler pulley, front end needed multiple alignments, rear bumper bends really easy, but i did make mine pretty nice its all off road style with big tires loud exhaust and custom gauges and rims

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  Junk that looks good - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Richard Potter - March 31 - 9:04 pm

  Two weeks after we bought the Explorer the transmission went out. The transmission man who replaced it said it was the worst transmission Ford ever made. Five months later the trans mission went out again and was replaced under warranty. The transmission just went out again. Im going to haul it to the Junk yard. The door locks dont work, the seat is broken, the AC doesnt work, cruise control quit and it is running bad now. It isnt worth the trouble to fix it. I always took care of it and never ran it hard so it shouldnt have had these problems.

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  FORD fan for life! :) - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Karen - March 31 - 7:55 pm

  We bought this car [used] five years ago with 22,000+ miles on it. It has served us perfectly well in all of this time until its untimely demise in an auto accident a few days ago. I walked away from the accident with not one scratch. With an impact of more than 45 MPH, it could have been much, much worse. "Built FORD tough..." Yes INDEED! In addition to the car itself, the fact that Ford did not take any of the government stimulus money keeps me faithful to such a sturdy and independent organization. Sure, nobodys perfect, but FORD is perfect for me! I am in the market for a new car and am searching far and wide for another FORD to call my own! :)