Ford Explorer Used Buying Guide: Known Issues

• The Explorer’s most common issues run the gamut from pretty basic (high-mileage transmission issues) to completely outlandish (attracting rats).
• Not every model year faces the same potential problems, making it easier to narrow down your options!
• Before you make a final decision, plug your used Explorer’s VIN into the NHTSA website to verify that it’s up-to-date on recall repairs.
• We only select the most outstanding Explorers for our used lot! Visit us at Banner Ford in Monroe for a safe, reliable ride.

The most numerous Explorer issues come from older models, making used Explorers from around 2018 through the current model some of the most reliable options. That said, there are a few things you need to look out for, even with late-model SUVs.

Rats Love the Explorer’s Soy-Flavored Wire Coating

So far, not a lot has gone wrong with the latest and greatest generation of Explorers (2020-current model). Except, that is, for the fact that rodents seem to find their soy-coated wiring pretty enticing. Meant to be both cost-efficient and environmentally friendly, varmint seem to enjoy chewing through and making nests out of the wires’ soy-based exterior coating. Incidentally, Ford isn’t the only automaker aiming to reduce its plastic consumption with soy wire coating; Honda and Toyota drivers have reported the same issue.

Nip the problem in the bud by popping your hood and checking for signs of life — such as rodent poop or shredded wire. Move your Explorer from where it’s parked and look for any detritus that may have fallen out from under the vehicle. Don’t keep any food in the cabin, and carefully vacuum any crumbs. Some drivers wrap their wiring in spicy, capsaicin-laden anti-rodent tape. Others tuck mothballs or dryer sheets under the hood (though it’s essential to remove them before driving).

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Watch out for deadly fumes in the fifth-generation used Explorer (2011-2019). To its credit, Ford launched a complimentary service to curtail the issue. Your local dealership will inspect qualifying Explorer models, update the climate control module’s software, and inspect the rear liftgate sealing (replacing it as needed). If you’re thinking about buying a used SUV from this era, check its vehicle history to ensure it’s had the necessary repairs!

Self-Ejecting Triton V8 Spark Plugs

Although the F-150 and Expedition are the vehicles most likely to experience a Triton V8 spark-plug blowout, it’s not unknown to happen in 2002-2006 Explorers equipped with one of these engines. Since the issue seems to be related to thread wear-and-tear, Ford recommends getting the jump on the problem by installing Lock-N-Stitch thread inserts inside the cylinder heads to help secure the spark plugs.

High-Mileage Transmission Failure

The third-generation used Ford Explorer (2002-2005) has a bit of a transmission problem. Around 100,000 miles, you may see signs of pending transmission failure — like slippage or rattling sounds. Get your Explorer serviced at any hint of impending doom. Unfortunately, this can be an expensive fix. If it’s available, we recommend planning ahead with extended warranty coverage! Alternatively, it wouldn’t hurt shoppers to skip this generation altogether.

Over the course of the Explorer’s history, the 2020 model year has racked up the most recalls, with 22, followed by the 2000 (with 16) and 1999 (with 15) models. Meanwhile, the 2002 Ford Explorer inspired the most NHTSA complaints, with 3,618 unhappy incidents. You may want to watch out for the 2016 Explorer as well, which is currently the subject of 2,020 complaints.

On the NHTSA website, it’s easy to see whether any used Ford Explorer needs recall repairs. We recommend doing so before making a final purchase. Here’s a quick look at a few recent recalls to watch out for:

• 2020-2015 Explorer missing dashboard air bag warning label: This important indicator may be completely absent, a federal safety violation.
• 2020-2022 Explorer rear-axle bolt fractures: A troublesome rear-axle mounting bolt could fracture, separating the driveshaft and half shafts, resulting in a loss of rear-wheel torque. In park (without the parking brake engaged), this torque loss could allow the Explorer to roll away.
• 2024 Explorer battery cable may short-circuit: After chafing against a nearby part, the high-voltage battery cable could degrade and short-circuit, potentially damaging various electrical components or the battery.