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:

• 

  Loved the car first, Now on the Fense - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By mercuryfordlover715 - March 29 - 6:33 pm

  When my parents bought this Ford Explorer, I was in love with it. Plenty of get up and go from the 5.0 liter V8. Awesome comfort for me and 4 of my friends. But about 3 weeks after I purchased the car, I began to have problems. Needed a new EGR Valve,$300. Front End Alignment, $80. Sway Bar $200. And lastly, a Wheel Bearing, $150. After that though it seems to run like a top. But I do experience some rough idling from time to time. Even though I have experienced these problems, my other family members have been very lucky with their Fords. Uncle, 1997 Ford Expedition 187,000 miles before he traded it in, No Problems. Sister 1996 Ford Explorer V6, 167,000, traded in, No Problems.

• 

  I know this car - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By rmmiller2050 - March 26 - 3:18 pm

  At 220,000 xfer case destroyed itself costing 1500.00 rebuild, at 300,000 transmission destroyed itself costing 1250 rebuild $, 4 liter v6 motor has still got another 100,000. Leather interior seats are holding up very well. Do not by cheap door handles from auto parts stores not even from napa , they are Chinese and made from wrong plastic. Original Ford oem made from frp resin are the only ones that will not break until many years of service, these cost 30% more than the crummy ones at autozone or napa or pep boys. I do all my own work, m teh 1995 has serious design flaws in xfer case and 4wdv control scheme. I know this car well, 330,000 miles, 150 miles per day comm.

• 

  Lasted a long time - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Chauncey - March 26 - 12:10 am

  I bought my explorer from carmax with about 36k miles in 98. Initially I had a lot of minor problems going back and forth to carmax and then 1 big problem that never got fully resolved. I had a problem with heating and a/c system switching from heat to air conditioning. After that no major problems with this vehicle lasted a long time 226k before it died on me. The body and interior held up very good still in very good condition. Had a lot of class for an SUV and fun to drive and take on long trips. Overall I was very satisfied with my explorer got my money out of it.

• 

  What a RIP OFF! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Rachael - March 25 - 2:16 pm

  I have had problems for the past 2 years w/ this vehicle. I have replaced 3 wheel bearings w/ in the past year and now they are loose again. I have the infamous rear panel crack, replaced fuel pump, replaced intake manifold, replaced fuel line, had starter problems, rear passenger door does not lock, door ajar light will not stop (WD40 is a temporary fix). I am afraid to drive it because the check engine light is always on. This truck is high maintenance. Ford Motor company does nothing to help. Basically every month I make a payment I feel like I am being robbed. CHECK OUT ALL REVIEWS BEFORE BUYING THIS SUV.

• 

  ESC too active - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By bignet - March 21 - 5:30 pm

  Not impressed. Didnt like it after the first month and I was stuck in a lease. When is below 40 deg. the ESC actives on turns even when the roads are dry. Especially frustrating while trying to accelerate on a cloverleaf on-ramp on to highway. The 9V power supply is in a bad spot, near the center console. Radar and GPS power cords have to stretch from the console to the dash. No Ash tray/trash. Eddie Bauer edition doesnt come with steering wheel audio controls

• 

  Tailgate Recall - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Bob - March 19 - 11:57 am

  They need to recall the tailgate on this model for design defects relating to the crack at the emblem. Dealer says no. If not a design defect, why the design before and after this year include only the glass that would lift. Nearly every vehicle of this type has the crack at the emblem located on the tailgate. Can be fixed to the tune of nearly $800 at my cost.

• 

  no problems here - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By jim g - March 16 - 5:44 pm

  This is my 3rd Explore and by far my best. Plenty of power and the ride is very smooth. Every feature works as expected. Very stable on the highway and easy to drive in town. No comparison to the explores of the early years.

• 

  couldnt believe - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Cynic - March 16 - 12:01 pm

  couldnt believe that I would love an American built car/truck so much. no major issues, owned for 6 yrs. rides good (knock on wood), handles good, reliable (again knock on wood - dont want to jinx myself). :-)

• 

  the money pit! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By lisa - March 10 - 7:52 am

  I fell in love with the "look" of the explorer xlt, and had always heard that Ford built a good vehicle. Everything started out great. But, around 70,000 miles that all started to change. I have replaced 6 wheel bearings, rebuilt the transmission, changed window switch, the interior lights works only when they want too, heat doesnt work anymore, volume knob is broken, clicking noise coming from dash, 4x4 doesnt work, trim started fading to quick, leather seats dont hold up, rear passenger door wont lock and after all this the transmission is going out again. Dont waset your money on what is now known as the Ford exploder.

• 

  1996 Ford Explorer XLT 5.0L V8 - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By HeZ777 - March 5 - 7:42 pm

  Ive owned this car since October 1997, buying it with about 11,000 miles. It now has over 203,000 miles and still running strong. The 302 V8 is a strong and efficient runner, with a strong and durable transmission. Pre-Ethanol highway economy 22 MPG. Post-Ethanol highway economy 18 MPG. Very practical car, tows 5500 lb loads with ease, plenty of ramp torque, and horsepower to run up hills with ease. Recurring issues: this car eats up upper/lower ball joints, water pumps, radiators. Subwoofer not a standard size. On the plus side: 190,000 miles on a fuel pump, 170,000 miles on the air conditioning system. Engine, tranny, fuel system, computer top notch reliable on this car.