Ford Explorer research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Explorer is one of America's best-selling three-row SUVs. 2011-2019 models offer a 290-hp V6, an efficient EcoBoost four-cylinder, or a 365-hp twin-turbo V6 in the Sport and Platinum. The 2020 redesign moved to rear-drive with a 10-speed automatic, a 300-hp 2.3L, a 400-hp ST and a Hybrid, and the 2025 refresh added a big 13.2-inch screen. Both generations have important recalls (rear suspension and rear axle), so VIN checks matter.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. The Explorer remains in production; verify 2026 trims (including Tremor and Active 100A), engine availability by trim and equipment against current Ford data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Three row seating for up to seven
Strong engine choices
Towing up to 5000 lb or more when equipped
Available four wheel drive
400 hp explorer st performance
Hybrid option 2020 2023
Standard co pilot360 2020 and later
Wide parts and service availability

Things to know before you buy

Engine choice changes by year resolve by VIN
Rear toe link recalls 2011 2017
Internal water pump on 3.5 liter V6
AWD ptu check 2011 2019
Rear axle bolt recall 2020 2022
2020 launch quality issues
Third row is best for kids
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 5 (2011–2019)

The fifth-generation Explorer moved to a car-based unibody (D4 platform) built in Chicago, with FWD or intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management and a 6-speed automatic. Engines: a 290-hp 3.5L V6; a 240-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (2012-2015, FWD only); a 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost (2016-2019); and a 365-hp 3.5L twin-turbo V6 in the Sport (2013-2019) and Platinum (2016-2019). The 2016 refresh brought new styling; 2018 a new grille.

Buyer takeaway: 2016-2019 models are the better buys for features and the 2.3L EcoBoost with 4WD. V6 models need a water-pump and coolant check, 4WD models a PTU check, and 2011-2017 models confirmed toe-link recall repairs.

Generation 6 (2020–present)

The sixth-generation Explorer rides on the rear-drive CD6 platform shared with the Lincoln Aviator, with RWD or 4WD and a 10-speed automatic. Engines: a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost; a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (365 hp in Platinum, 400 hp in the ST); and a 318-hp 3.3L Hybrid (2020-2023). Timberline and ST-Line arrived for 2021; a 2025 refresh added a 13.2-inch screen and simplified trims; Tremor arrived for 2026.

Buyer takeaway: The 2.3L suits most families; the ST is the performance pick; the Hybrid offers better city mpg. 2020-2022 models had many recalls, so confirm completion. 2025-2026 models have the newest tech.

Ford Explorer by model year

2026 Ford Explorer

The 2026 Explorer adds two trims: the off-road Tremor (replacing the earlier Timberline) and a lower-priced Active 100A. Powertrains carry over: a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost and the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp in the ST; also offered on the Tremor), with a 10-speed automatic. Verify 2026 specs and equipment against current Ford data.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 optional on platinum verify by VIN
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Tremor off road trim added
Active 100a entry trim added

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; All terrain tires and underbody if tremor; Large touchscreen operation; Powertrain control module software recall status; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2025 Ford Explorer

The refreshed 2025 Explorer has a new front end and a redesigned cabin with a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital gauges. Trims were cut to Active, ST-Line, Platinum and ST. Active, ST-Line and Platinum use a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost (about 20/29 mpg RWD); the ST has a 400-hp twin-turbo V6. Several 2025 recalls exist, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 optional on platinum verify by VIN
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

New front styling and larger grille
Standard 13 2 inch touchscreen and 12 3 inch digital cluster
Trims cut to active st line st and platinum
Several first year recalls

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Transmission crossmember and valve body recall status; Front subframe and brake caliper bolt recall status; Powertrain control module software recall status; Large touchscreen operation; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2024 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Explorer is the last year before the 2025 refresh. The retail Hybrid is no longer listed, so engines are the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost (about 21/28 mpg RWD) and the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp in the ST), with a 10-speed automatic. Some 2024 2.3L models were recalled for a powertrain control module reset that can affect Park; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Retail hybrid no longer listed
Last year before the 2025 refresh

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Powertrain control module software recall status; Ten speed automatic shift quality and park function; Trailer hitch bolt recall status; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2023 Ford Explorer

The 2023 Explorer carries over with the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost, the 365- or 400-hp 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and the 318-hp Hybrid, all with a 10-speed automatic and RWD or 4WD. EPA listings show 2023 as the last year of the retail Explorer Hybrid. Trims span XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST and Platinum, so confirm the trim and engine by VIN.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 380 lb ft platinum; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.3 liter V6 hybrid 318 hp combined
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last model year EPA lists a retail explorer hybrid

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear axle bolt and driveshaft recall status; Ten speed automatic shift quality and park function; Powertrain control module software recall status; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2022 Ford Explorer

For 2022, a rear-drive ST, a Platinum Hybrid and the sporty-looking ST-Line (2.3L) joined the lineup. Engines remain the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost, the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (365 hp, or 400 hp in the ST) and the 318-hp 3.3L Hybrid (about 27/28 mpg RWD). 2020-2022 Explorers have recalls for the rear axle mounting bolt and for powertrain software that can affect Park, so confirm all remedies, including re-repairs.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 380 lb ft platinum; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.3 liter V6 hybrid 318 hp combined
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Platinum hybrid added
RWD explorer st available
St line appearance trim with 2.3 liter
Xlt appearance package

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear axle bolt and driveshaft recall status; Ten speed automatic shift quality and park function; Powertrain control module software recall status; Intake valve recall status 3.0 liter; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2021 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Explorer adds the off-road-styled Timberline, added mid-year with the 2.3L, 4WD, all-terrain tires and unique trim. Powertrains carry over: a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost, 365- and 400-hp 3.0L twin-turbo V6s and the 318-hp Hybrid, all with a 10-speed automatic. Some 3.0L engines are covered by an intake-valve recall, and 2020-2022 rear axle bolt recalls apply.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 380 lb ft platinum; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.3 liter V6 hybrid 318 hp combined
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Timberline off road trim added mid year
Powertrains carry over
Rear axle bolt recall applies

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear axle bolt and driveshaft recall status; Ten speed automatic shift quality and park function; Powertrain control module software recall status; Intake valve recall status 3.0 liter; All terrain tires and underbody if timberline; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2020 Ford Explorer

The 2020 Explorer was redesigned on a rear-drive platform shared with the Lincoln Aviator. Engines: a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost (about 21/28 mpg RWD), a 365-hp 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (Platinum), a 400-hp version in the new ST, and a 318-hp 3.3L Hybrid rated about 27/29 mpg RWD, all with a 10-speed automatic. Early builds had widely reported quality fixes and many recalls; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 300 hp 310 lb ft; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 380 lb ft platinum; 3.0 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 415 lb ft st; 3.3 liter V6 hybrid 318 hp combined
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

All new rear drive based platform shared with lincoln aviator
Standard co pilot360 driver assists
New 400 hp explorer st
Explorer hybrid added
Launch quality problems reported

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear axle bolt and driveshaft recall status; Ten speed automatic shift quality and park function; Powertrain control module software recall status; Build quality fit and finish and electrical glitches; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2019 Ford Explorer

The 2019 Explorer is the final year of the front-drive-based fifth generation, with new packages such as the XLT Desert Copper and Limited Luxury. Engines remain the 290-hp 3.5L V6, 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost and 365-hp twin-turbo V6. It is a well-known design, but the 2020 redesign is roomier, more powerful and has standard driver aids.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 280 hp 310 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Last year of the fifth generation
Xlt switches to synthetic leather seating
New option packages

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2018 Ford Explorer

For 2018 the Explorer received a new grille and front fascia, LED fog lamps on most trims, and an optional Safe and Smart Package with driver-assist features (standard on Platinum). Powertrains carry over: a 290-hp V6, a 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost and the 365-hp twin-turbo V6, all with a 6-speed automatic. Check the internal water pump on V6 models.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 280 hp 310 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

New grille and front fascia with LED fog lights
Available safe and smart driver assist package
Quad exhaust tips on sport and platinum

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2017 Ford Explorer

The 2017 Explorer carries over the refreshed 2016 design; SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is found on many later fifth-generation trucks (verify by VIN). Engines remain the 290-hp 3.5L V6, 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost and 365-hp twin-turbo V6 (Sport and Platinum). 2017 is the last year covered by the rear toe-link recalls, so confirm the remedy by VIN.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 280 hp 310 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Sync 3 availability varies verify by VIN
Turbo oil supply tube recall on some twin turbo models

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Infotainment and smartphone integration; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2016 Ford Explorer

The 2016 refresh brought new styling, standard LED low beams and a new 2.3L EcoBoost turbo four (280 hp, 310 lb-ft) that, unlike the old 2.0L, is available with 4WD. The 290-hp V6 stays standard on most trims, and a new Platinum trim joins the Sport with the 365-hp twin-turbo V6. Expect about 19/27 mpg FWD with the 2.3L and 16/22 mpg with the twin-turbo.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.3 liter ecoboost turbo I4 280 hp 310 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Refreshed front and rear styling with LED lights
2.3 liter ecoboost replaces 2.0 liter and offers 4wd
New platinum top trim with 365 hp V6
Available front camera and enhanced park assist

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Front camera and parking sensors if equipped; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2015 Ford Explorer

The 2015 Explorer is the last year of the original fifth-generation look and of the FWD-only 2.0L EcoBoost (240 hp). The 290-hp 3.5L V6 and 365-hp Sport continue with a 6-speed automatic. Like other 2011-2017 models, it falls under the rear toe-link recalls, so verify the latest remedy was performed, especially in road-salt states.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 240 hp FWD only; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Last year of the original fifth generation styling
Last year of the 2.0 liter ecoboost

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2014 Ford Explorer

The 2014 Explorer carries over: a 290-hp 3.5L V6 (FWD or 4WD), a 240-hp 2.0L EcoBoost (FWD only, about 20/28 mpg) and the 365-hp twin-turbo Sport. Several recalls cover the rear suspension toe links on 2011-2017 models, including a weld-quality recall for some 2014-2015 builds, plus a half-shaft bracket recall on FWD 2.0L models. Confirm all are done.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 240 hp FWD only; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Some 2014 2015 toe links covered by a weld quality recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Front half shaft bracket recall status FWD ecoboost; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2013 Ford Explorer

The 2013 Explorer added the Sport, with a 365-hp, 350 lb-ft 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, standard 4WD, firmer suspension and bigger brakes (about 16/22 mpg). The 290-hp V6 and FWD-only 240-hp 2.0L EcoBoost continue. A police version (Police Interceptor Utility) also launched, so former fleet vehicles can appear on the used market; check history.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 240 hp FWD only; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 350 lb ft sport
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

Explorer sport added with 365 hp twin turbo V6
Sport has stiffer suspension and larger brakes
Police interceptor utility version introduced

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Fleet or police history check; Turbocharger and intercooler leaks if sport; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2012 Ford Explorer

For 2012, Ford added a 240-hp, 270 lb-ft 2.0L EcoBoost turbo four as an option, offered only with front-wheel drive and rated about 20/28 mpg. The 290-hp 3.5L V6 remains the choice for 4WD and heavier towing. Both use a 6-speed automatic. Confirm the engine by VIN, since the two feel and tow quite differently.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft; 2.0 liter ecoboost turbo I4 240 hp 270 lb ft FWD only
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

2.0 liter ecoboost four cylinder added
Ecoboost offered with front wheel drive only

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

2011 Ford Explorer

The 2011 Explorer was all-new: a car-based unibody three-row SUV replacing the old truck-based design, built in Chicago. Every 2011 uses a 290-hp, 255 lb-ft 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic, rated about 18/25 mpg FWD and 17/23 mpg with 4WD, which uses a Terrain Management dial. Towing is up to 5,000 lb when properly equipped. Several suspension and trim recalls apply, so check the VIN.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 290 hp 255 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Intelligent 4wd all wheel drive
Body style: Midsize three row SUV

What changed:

All new unibody design replacing body on frame
Terrain management system on 4wd models
First inflatable rear seat belts available
Myford touch infotainment
North american truck of the year

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Rear suspension toe link recall status; Coolant level and oil condition internal water pump V6; AWD power transfer unit noise leaks or odor; A pillar trim recall status; Myford touch screen response; Third row seats and folding mechanisms; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Towing history and hitch; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

Rear Suspension Toe Link Recalls (2011-2017) (2011–2017)
Ford recalled 2011-2017 Explorers because the rear suspension toe links can fracture, which can suddenly change handling. Related recalls covered some 2014-2015 links with poor welds and, in road-salt states, 2013-2017 vehicles whose cross-axis ball joints can corrode and seize; some previously repaired vehicles needed to return for a newer remedy.
What to do: Confirm every rear toe-link recall shows complete, especially on vehicles from salt-belt states.
Internal Water Pump on 3.5L V6 Engines (2011-2019) (2011–2019)
The 3.5L V6 and 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in 2011-2019 Explorers use a water pump mounted inside the engine and driven by the timing chain. If it leaks, coolant can mix with engine oil and damage the engine, and the repair is costly because of the labor involved. A class action over the design was dismissed in 2020; it is a known risk, not a certainty.
What to do: On V6 Explorers, check coolant and oil condition carefully; a documented water-pump replacement is a plus.
AWD Power Transfer Unit Overheating (2011-2019) (2011–2019)
On 2011-2019 4WD Explorers, the power transfer unit (PTU) sits near hot exhaust parts and holds little fluid, so it can overheat and wear internally. Ford revised the part several times. Symptoms include grinding or whining, a burnt-oil odor and leaks.
What to do: On 4WD fifth-generation Explorers, check for PTU noise and leaks and ask about fluid service.
A-Pillar Trim Detachment Recall (2011-2019) (2011–2019)
In 2024 Ford recalled about 1.9 million 2011-2019 Explorers because the exterior A-pillar trim clips may not be fully engaged, allowing the trim to fly off while driving.
What to do: Confirm the trim recall is complete or the trim is secure.
2020-2022 Rear Axle Bolt and Powertrain Software Recalls (2020–2022)
On 2020-2022 Explorers, the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt can fracture and let the driveshaft disconnect, causing loss of drive or a rollaway if the parking brake is not set. Software recalls on some 2.3L, 3.0L and Hybrid models addressed unintended powertrain control module resets that can affect Park. Some vehicles were recalled again after incorrect repairs.
What to do: Confirm the rear axle bolt and software recalls are complete, including any follow-up campaigns.
3.0L EcoBoost Intake Valve Recall (2021-2022) (2021–2022)
Some 2021-2022 Explorers with the 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 (Platinum, ST and others) were recalled because an intake valve can break, causing engine failure and loss of drive power.
What to do: On 2021-2022 3.0L Explorers, confirm this recall is complete.
Generation, Engine and Police Interceptor Disambiguation (2011–2026)
2011-2019 Explorers are front-drive-based with a 6-speed automatic; 2020 and later are rear-drive-based with a 10-speed automatic. Engines differ greatly by year and trim. The Police Interceptor Utility is an Explorer variant with different equipment, and the European electric 'Explorer' is an unrelated vehicle.
What to do: Confirm year, engine, drivetrain and prior use before comparing prices.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, build date, engine, drivetrain, state of registration and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies, including follow-up remedies for earlier repairs.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee
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Subaru Ascent
Nissan Pathfinder
Lincoln Aviator

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Ford Explorer?
Which engine does this Explorer have?
What are the Explorer rear toe link and rear axle recalls?
Is the 3.5L V6 water pump a concern?
What is the difference between the Explorer ST, Platinum and Hybrid?
What changed in 2016, 2020 and 2025?
How much can the Explorer tow?
What should I inspect on a used Explorer?
Was this Explorer a police or fleet vehicle?
What similar three-row SUVs should I consider?