The Most Common Problems with Used Ford Explorers (And Which Year Models to Avoid)
If you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, it’s useful to know what to look for before you drive one off the lot. Here are some of the most common problems encountered by owners, how much they cost to fix, and how to avoid buying a faulty Explorer.
Quick Answer: Avoid 2002-2006 Ford Explorers
Don’t buy Ford Explorers that were made between 2002 and 2006 because their transmissions are prone to problems. Other year models are safe.
If you were considering buying a 2002-2006 Explorer and we just ruined your plans, don’t despair. The CoPilot app is the easiest way to find reliable used vehicles in your area - just tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll create a curated list of the best deals in your area.
To learn more about the most common problems encountered by used Ford Explorer owners, read on.
Most Common Problem With Used Ford Explorers: Transmission Failure, 2002-2006 models
Average Cost to Fix: $2,800
The transmission is key to a vehicle’s operation, so unfortunately this isn’t a problem that Ford Explorer owners can put off or work around. While other year models are much more reliable, the 2002-2006 year models of the Ford Explorer were plagued by transmission failure issues that require full transmission replacements – which usually sets owners back about 3 grand. Check out the list below for some of the most commonly-reported signs of Ford Explorer transmission failure:
- Unable to switch gears
- Burning smell
- Leaking fluid
- Grinding or shaking
- Check engine light comes on
- Slipping transmission
Here’s what one Ford Explorer owner on Reddit has to say about the Ford Explorer:
As a general review of an explorer I’d say take the majority of reviews online to heart… I wish I did and I regret ever buying my 02 about a year ago now, since then it’s needed rear diff work, multiple wheel bearings (600 a pop), and as of right now it needs $1k worth of repair in the front end. Also, transmission shudders into overdrive and auto 4x4 does not work…, paid 4k for it exactly a year ago, haven’t gotten any private offers for even 2000 since I’ve listed it 2 weeks ago. Don’t get me wrong, it is a good handling vehicle, attractive, and aesthetically ages well, but this was ford’s experimental generation of truck and the mandatory full time 4x4 is the worst thing I ever ever had to deal with in any vehicle.
While the Explorer is a fine vehicle overall, the 2002-2006 years were plagued with problems. We recommend steering towards a different year model if you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, since a transmission failure will likely set you back a significant amount of your original purchase price.
How to avoid buying a Ford Explorer with a faulty transmission:
This one’s fairly simple – avoid buying 2002-2006 models, because their transmissions were more prone to failure than other year models. If you are considering a different year model, we recommend taking the vehicle for a thorough test drive. Try to get the vehicle onto a freeway or other high-speed road and accelerate aggressively through the gears. If you feel any slipping or stuttering while the vehicle is shifting, it might be worth finding a different SUV.
How to fix:
Unfortunately, there’s nothing that a non-mechanic can do to fix the transmission problems common to Ford Explorers. Take it to a reputable local mechanic to get it checked out.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Wondering what to look out for when buying a used car? With such a large purchase, it pays to be a cautious shopper. Check out this list of the biggest red flags to look out for when buying a used car.
Other Common Ford Escape Problems: Bubbling Paint & Cracked Body Panels
The second most commonly-reported issue with used Ford Explorers are much less severe – bubbling & warping body paint. While paint issues aren’t attractive and might lead to rust, they’re much less severe than a busted transmission.
Average cost to fix: Varies between $150-$5,000
Bubbling paint and cracked panels are among the most common body issues reported by Ford Explorer owners. Unfortunately, these issues seem to be fairly prevalent across all year models, with newer models (2017-2020) having high numbers of reports of bubbling paint, particularly on the hood and around the engine area. This is caused by the aluminum hoods of these models corroding under the paint, causing frequent bubbling, peeling, and other cosmetic issues.
A user on fordexplorer.org, ethanallen5877, detailed their issue with their 2017 Ford Explorer.
“I found about six small areas on the front edge of my 2017 Explorer with bubbling paint. Took it to the dealership and I guess it’s a known issue.”
That’s because it is a known issue – a class action lawsuit was filed against Ford for this issue back in 2019, which led to a recall on many Explorer models. Owners with bubbling paint should be able to get their hood fixed or replaced at the dealership at no cost with this recall. If you’re considering buying a used Ford Explorer, you should check with the seller to see if the hood has already been replaced under this recall.
Many users also report body panelling cracking underneath the rear window – replacement panels can be purchased, painted, and installed at most body/repair shops for $2-300.
SEE ALL FACTORY RECALLS ISSUED FOR FORD EXPLORERS
Factory recalls are issued when a vehicle fails to meet safety or quality standards, such as the bubbling paint above. Before buying a Ford Explorer of any year model, see what factory recalls have been issued.
Should you buy a used Ford Explorer?
With the exception of 2002-2006 models, which were plagued with a variety of problems, absolutely. The newer models are much more reliable, and what issues they do have are mostly cosmetic (and covered by a recall).
Looking for a used Ford Explorer? CoPilot makes it easy to search all of the used Ford Explorers in your area – no need to visit dozens of individual dealer sites to see all of the available used SUVs near you.
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