2013 Ford Explorer Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.01/5 Average
68 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2013 Ford Explorer receives a new performance-oriented Sport trim level that features a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. All Explorers this year have a new front passenger knee airbag, while a heated steering wheel, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist are offered for the Limited trim level. The available xenon headlights now feature automatic high-beam control.

Pros:
  • Available fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder.
  • Abundant high-tech features
  • Upscale cabin
  • Excellent ride/handling balance
  • Excellent crash test safety scores
Cons:
  • Feels bigger than it is behind the wheel
  • MyFord Touch is slow to respond and can be difficult to use.
  • Less third-row and cargo room than some rivals

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 68.00
  • Sync Issues - Ford cannot fix - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We go this car 4 months ago and in that time it has been back to the garage 8 times for them to try and fix the My Ford Touch/SYNC system. It still is not fixed and Ford dont know how to fix it. The car itself is lovely but if you want the SYNC system to work then dont buy this car. their solution to the navigation not working was to buy us a Garmin!!! no buy back, no switch out and no cash compensation - very dissappointed with Ford and their technology that doesnt work

  • Best Value in safety, tech, style - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    My previous car was a BMW 5 series. We wanted something utilitarian to support our lifestyle with two kids, visiting family, road trips to the mountains, beach etc. Minivan was out of the question. We could have spent $70K+ on a comparability equipped Benz GL or Audi Q7. We netted a fully loaded Explorer for $45K - a great value in my book. We have 5,000 miles on it over 6 month and its been positive. The car does not provide a thrilling drivers experience like the 5 series does, but thats not what you get this car for. We will put the $25k we saved over a benz/audi and put it towards a real drivers sports car as our other car.

  • Towing Issues - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I just bought a 2013 Explorer with a tow package with the intent of occasionally needing to rent a trailer as I had done with my previous vehicle (a 2009 Edge). I found out after the purchase that U-Haul has black-listed all model years of Explorer and will not rent towable equipment that will towed by any Explorer. This fact was not know by the dealer.

  • 2013 Explorer Limited FWD - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Really like the room & Technology of Sync & MyTouch on the controls. I know a lot has been said about Microsoft & MyTouch but its easy and I have not had any problems. It feels like the future and using a new smart phone when playing with the navigation screen. The 3.5 V-6 engine has plenty of power and the cabin is very quite & smooth ride with the 20 inch wheels. Its more than I expected when you compare the price with import luxury models. One Test Drive is all it takes !

  • Two weeks old and already water damage - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    I must admit, I really love this car. This is my third new car purchase. My last car was a 2005 Honda CRV, and the 2013 Explorer is a great upgrade providing plenty of space for my family. However, after owning the car for only two weeks, following a heavy rain, I was hearing what sounded like water sloshing around in the car doors and dashboard. I also discoverd that the carpet underneath the driver door was saturated. I took the car back to the dealer today and was told its unusual to happen in a new car, and that I must have parked it under a tree to cause a clog?!? In any event, after indicating it was fixed, its not. I dont know if this is a model defect, or just my bad luck.

  • 2013 Ford Explorer Base model Needed the Space - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Just traded in my 2012 Dodge Journey (one of the worst cars I have ever bought - Never again). I was looking at a Pilot, Tahoe and Explorer. Went into the dealer on Saturday morning and test drove it. Fell in love almost immediately. I am a fairly big guy, so I needed the room. While driving I noticed that I didnt feel cramped, had plenty of leg room. I thought, this seat must be pushed all the way to the back, but NO. Back seat passengers had plenty of leg room. For family with plenty of people, this is the car for you!

  • Well done Ford!!! - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    This isnt your daddys Ford thats for sure! WOW! I have had the pleasure of owning a Ford Ranger, Explorer Sport Trac and an Escape (all leased vehicles) and this new 2013 Explorer not only sets the standard for others to follow, it has its fingers on the pulse of what Americans want in a Made in the USA vehicle. its about time Ford and an amzing job! The ride, the ammenities, the quality of the interior and exterior and the comfort are outstanding in my book, the Explorer is a tad bit shy on the towing but 5,000 lbs in a 7 passenger, wil still allow the urban family to get away for a weekend and the gas wont hit you in the pocket. Give it a look and drive. You wont be disappointed!!

  • Love it but check that middle row for rattles - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Love the explorer and would give it 5/5 if not for just one very annoying problem. The middle row passenger side seat vibrates and rattles. Every bump or rough road provides an irritating rattle. Headed back to the dealer for a second try at a repair. I found the suggestion to put something heavy in the seat funny but disturbing.

  • 2013 Limited - Recommended - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    Only 2K miles so far, but there is quite a bit to recommend for this vehicle. Mine has all of the options, and features like the backup camera make all of the difference. The safety options are outstanding -- airbags even on the rear seat belts! Ive used it mainly in town, from commuting to work to hauling 7 adults the flexibility with the power 3rd row is great. The electronic controls may seem intimidating at first, but they are really quite simple to use. In my opinion, the interior and exterior styling is very good -- I never liked the old Explorer. This vehicle drives very smoothly and does not feel too big. Have to wait a few more months to see how it handles ice and snow.

  • First day and issues - 2013 Ford Explorer
    By -

    We traded in our 09 Odyssey that was starting to have Tranny issues at 31,000 miles. Honda stone walled us so we went looking. Almost got the Highlander limited but tested the Explorer, liked it more, and got a good deal. About an hour after getting home I couldnt get the Navigation the Salesman said was on the vehicle to load up (like on a different explorer we test drove to get the feel, got a different color one). I called the dealer and they said I didnt have the voice touch screen Navi, just the Sync one. POd is all I have to say, Sync is horrible and my now "deal" looked normal to overpriced.There is also a high pitched chirp/whistle from the engine 3.5 V6 Returning it tomorrow!!!

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