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 worth the money! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By michelle n - March 28 - 4:00 pm

  I purchased this vehicle three years ago, with only 30,000 miles. I had to replace the brakes/rotors all around, shortly after purchasing, all four wheel July, and I just found out that I needed all of these items replaced again. This thing had 17" wheels, and I had to replace them every 10 months. The transmission had a whine in it, there was a clicking noise and a really loud roaring sound in the front, drivers side. The cruise control didnt work. It would frequently take spells of not starting. It would grind really fast, like it had been flooded, and I would just have to sit and wait for it to start. It was quite roomy, but it was hard on gas and tires, and very expensive to fix.

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  Piece of junk!!!!!!!! - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Petty - March 28 - 2:00 am

  The first and LAST time I will ever own a Ford. On average it goes into the shop every 3,000 - 4,000mi. Transmission went bad at 25,000mi, and then two more times after that. Ball joints replaced 15 times, 2 leaf springs broke while driving down the road. Numerous electrical problems. Tailgate doesnt open properly. not enough room to list every problem! NEVER BUY A FORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have owned 3 Subarus, and I never have to fix a thing.!!!!!!!!!!

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  Its Cold Back Here - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Webslingah - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I recently took a 1400-mile trip and the second row seat is incredibly uncomfortable after about 500miles. Second, climate control, the driver sweats while the second row passengers freeze. I cant see the digital compass when driving. After about 5000miles the floor compartment handles are very flimsy, Ive already broken one. Its roomy, and comfy for the regular about town drive. The buying experience was horrible. There was a mistake in the incentives and I actually received an extra $500 off the price. When the finance guy realized it, he called me up,insulted me, and threatened to sue me if I didnt write him a check. Jerk!

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  Too Bad - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By dannyboy - March 26 - 12:08 pm

  Too bad Ford shot themselves in the foot with this model.. Beautiful ride, but the transmission has a severe flaw in the valve body. It was NOT milled correctly meaning the fluid equals out to not let it shift.. Ford should have redesigned a new trans and recalled all 02,03,04 . What are they thinking selling us a $30,00 dollar defective SUV?

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  Front Driver seat very Uncomfortable - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By S. Vannoy - March 20 - 8:53 pm

  First Be ready to re-place the Throttle body Air intake Bet - 9,000- 13,000 mile mine went out in the middle of traffic at 10,000 mile Ive read that several other owners parts went out also on the 2016 Explorer. Ive had 6 other explorers over the years and my wife has had 3 and the driver seat on the 2016 is the most uncomfortable that we have every had, beside that we love the explorer .

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  Love This New 2006 Explorer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By DMRs 2006 Explorer - March 17 - 11:30 pm

  I had a 2004 Explorer (V8) which I liked a lot. Power, comfort and reliability. But the new 2006 is even better. New v8 engine is terrific! Much improved interior, very quiet. Handling is excellent and fuel economy is better than the 2004 (new V8 engine). Perfect vehicle used for hunting, fishing, huge cargo room, as well as using for business and clients. Two vehicles in one - perfect for my lifestyle! Like having a truck and a luxury car.

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  Very Solid Vehicle - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Frank - March 16 - 10:03 am

  I bought my Explorer used from CarMax with 29,000 miles on it. In nearly 4 years, I have put 40,000 miles on it with one major problem, a rebuilt transmission that cost me $2500. Other than that, just oil changes, tires, brakes-- the usual stuff. If not for the transmission, it would have been a near-perfect vehicle.

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  Could Be Better - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jay - March 15 - 2:43 pm

  Well gas mileage stinks I only get 13- 14mpg. Could have bought at Expedition they do better. This vehicle has been reliable and I like it except for the transmission it stinks. It shifts hard,it feels like it trips, or doesnt know what to do. When slowing down it clunks into a lower gear. Supposedly though dealer says its fine. So put aside tranny and bad mpg Im pleased.

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  Great value ! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By MIKE E. - March 14 - 7:56 am

  Bought in jan.2008.The only issue was a recall on transmission clunking in reverse...dealer fixed over a year ago for free, no problems since.For the price you get a lot of features and room to haul a lot of stuff on vacation, or a trip to the home improvement center.Excellent in snow even with the cheap tires I have on it right now... a lot of other vehicles were getting stuck this winter while I drove right around them no problem!Not as good as Toyota/Honda but I hear that the new Edge and Flex are now on par with them.Great overall truck for thousands less than the competitors...just do the maintenance and you should have no problems.

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  Good car, few faults - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Scott - March 13 - 12:11 pm

  I bought this car 2 months ago, and have had nothing but problems. The next morning after i bought it, somehow there was a hole in the exhaust and i needed a completely new one. Dealer replaced it after much arguing, and now my check engine and check suspension light are on, I believe i need a new mass air flow sensor and a ball joint. On top of this, my ABS sensor failed, and it doesnt work. Apparently this truck passed safety, but it definitely shouldnt have.