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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  great car - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By carl steinberg - October 7 - 2:00 am

  great suv, quieter than its competition, better ride, huge improvement on the prior year models

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  Where Did Quality Go - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Tinsley - October 6 - 6:00 pm

  I can only evaluate the 2003 Explorer by comparing it to my previous 1994 Explorer. In short, the 1994 Explorer was a quality vehicle. No major problems were experienced during the 9 years (108,000 mi) I owned it. On the other hand the 2003 Explorer has been a maintenance nightmare! The following items were replaced: light switch, back window motor, universal joints, then complete drive shaft, front wheel bearings, emergency brake parts. The rear end was replaced twice and then TSB 05-23-3 was installed all with the same results-- the rear end whine always returned after a few thousand miles. Where did Fords quality workmanship go? The 2003 Ford Explorer is a substandard vehicle!

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  Why am I driving a Ford? - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By T in Miami - October 5 - 10:27 pm

  Honeymoon period was over too quickly. Although I love driving it--great pick- up at start up and highway--the problems soon began. Electrical malfunctions: Windows, power seats get stuck when adjusting, a/c sometimes dose not turn on, etc. But the worst-- the transmission. The transmission rises to 2 revolutions and revs there all by itself. It gets stuck in 2nd, and I often (more often lately)have to pull over. Car also turned off (at 25 mph) while driving and all functions were stuck--very scarey when steering and brakes dont work! Technicians finally reparied after three weeks-- say it can happen with any car. I dont buy that.

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  Great car - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By Matthew Smrzlick - October 5 - 11:03 am

  We purchased this car with 150,000 miles. It now has 364,000 miles and if still going fine except for the transmission and transfer case. It is so shot that it actually causes it to overheat while trying to shift. You have to drive it like a manual. You start off in first and work your way to drive. It actually makes this humming noise like it is an electric car. Other than that it runs fine.(We can only go to school and back though or else it over heats). The only other complaint is that the windows fall off the tracks too much and we have given up trying to keep the on track. Also the locking mechanism in the door handle fell out and had to be replaced and the hinge is messed up.

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  Problems with 2002 Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Wade Troutman - October 4 - 7:04 am

  Ford let my Explorer out of the factory with some strange problems. High beams stay on-cant fix without replacing steering column (dont use high beams, and if I forget and use them I have to disconnect the battery to turn them off). Replaced noisy wheel bearings at 70K. Power window motor on rear drivers side door out at 30K. Door ajar light on and off since 10K (gave up taking it to dealer after three visits). AC/heater floor vents leak. Transaxle seals replaced at 90K. Rear passenger side turn signal out at 100K. Lights work, but turn signal doesnt work. Clear coat started peeling on the passenger side of the vehicle in 2007. I am tired of the nagging little problems..

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  2002 xlt 4wd explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By rbreeden - October 3 - 2:00 am

  Overall good vehicle; however, have had some transmission problems. Gas mileage is pretty bad.

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  Shame on Ford! Faulty Throttle- Dangerous! - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Alisa - October 2 - 1:29 pm

  I have a 2016 Explorer with about 15,000 miles on it. Last week when I was coming home from the beach driving over the Robert Moses bridge, the car lost power.The wrench light came on with a message to check the manual. Somehow I managed to cross lanes to get into the right lane. However, there was no safe lane to be in. Cars are driving at a speed between 65-75 mph. There was the railing and the ocean below!! I had my son and his two friends in the car. I was terrified we were going to get hit and go into the ocean! I had my hazard lights on but I think it was difficult for drivers to see in the daylight. Cars had to swerve to avoid hitting me or stop short when unable to get in the middle lane. Luckily no one was hurt, but this could have easily turned out differently. When I brought the car in to be serviced the sales department seemed to be aware of the problem. Turns out the throttle needed to be replaced. Ford needs to correct this problem before someone is seriously injured or killed! Now Im afraid it will happen again.

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  Ups and Downs - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By FordedR - September 30 - 2:03 pm

  So, I do love my Explorer. Though there are some problems like others have said. The head rest that get in the way, engine takes forever to get up there. I do love the limited. I love the automatic side steps, DVD, navigation, great stereo system.

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  Hate the 2006 Explorer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Connie - September 29 - 12:35 pm

  I bought a used 2006 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer in March 2008. I have had it at the dealership five times. Ive had the shifter replaced and the whole fan assembly for the heat and air. I have had an ongoing problem with a loud noise coming from under the dash when I first take off. Overheard the mechanic telling the service guy that its a vacuum problem and its because of the design. Now it wont start, the road slippery light comes on and stays on even when driving on dry pavement. It also shifts hard and jerks when taking off. This is my third Explorer. I will NEVER buy one again.

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  Lemon Lemon - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By LEMON LEMON - September 26 - 2:40 pm

  I purchased Explorer Limited in 3/2006. In the 6 months I have owned it, it has been at the dealer for repairs 6 times (1 1/2 months). First it was the transmission. Then it was the cooling sensors that are supposed to prevent the engine from overheating. I was driving 70 mph on the highway when it just turned off. I lost power steering and almost ran other cars off the road while trying to maintain control. Since then it has been in & out of the dealership with cooling sensor issues. It doesnt turn on if it is cold out. I have been stranded 4 times, missed hours of work, and feel unsafe in the car. Ford doesnt stand behind product, Now must go through lemon law process which takes months. Buyers beware!