Ford Explorers were introduced in 1991 to replace the Ford Bronco II. It has become one of the most famous family cars in the United States. But, given its outstanding functionality, phenomenal safety track record, and load-carrying capabilities, it’s natural to wonder about the longevity of your Ford Explorer.
Now let’s investigate how long a Ford Explorer lasts. We will base our assertions on statistics and actual evidence, ensuring that you will have every reason to accept what we disclose in this article. But before we get into the details, we should say that a Ford Explorer is a car with a lot of great features that are meant to make it last longer.
Location, maintenance, how you use your car, and a lot of other things, some of which we’ll talk about later, all affect how long it will last. For example, if you occasionally service your Ford Explorer, it ought to last at least 16 or 17 years, which is a considerable amount of time comparable to the longevity of other cars.
How Long Do Ford Explorers Last?
With frequent servicing, a Ford Explorer could last for 10–17 years or 220,000 miles. The longevity of your ford explorer depends on how you use the car, upkeep, location, and a number of other factors. If you drive 12,000–14,000 miles per year and do regular maintenance, a Ford Explorer can carry your family for 16 years.
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How Many Miles Do Ford Explorers Last?
A Ford Explorer should travel between 80,000 and 200,000 kilometers overall, on average. You could discover some individuals with odometer readings as far as 300k if you join the Explorer forum.
At first, this was another of Ford’s most inefficient vehicles ever, while the car remained relatively new on the market. It has, nevertheless undergone some important changes that enable it to be suitable for both on- and off-road travel. When you get your car, you’ll need to take good care of it if you want it to go the long distances mentioned earlier. If a car is serviced regularly, it can gain an extra 150k miles.
After reaching that point, your powertrain, handling, and suspension will require expensive life updates if you regularly drive a Ford Explorer. After 200,000 kilometers, you might anticipate experiencing some link problems with your car. To prevent them from getting worse, you must address these problems as soon as possible.
You shouldn’t anticipate your secondhand car to reach 200k miles if the former owner utilized it improperly.
Factors That Affects How Long a Ford Explorer Lasts
Your Ford Explorer’s longevity is impacted by numerous factors. You may make better judgments and guarantee your car’s life expectancy by becoming conscious of these impacts.
1. The Way You Drive
Careless driving will damage your car. The motor, powertrain, brake pads, and other components of your Explorer will become worn out if you drive hard, making quick accelerations and abrupt stops, for example.
The Explorer will suffer if it is used to tow vans, campers, or other big objects. This will eventually reduce the Explorer’s longevity. You’ll pay more for maintenance and repairs as well. Treat your Explorer with care. If there is no exigency, try to avoid rapid velocities and pauses.
2. Your Geographical Area
Your geographical area will have an impact on your car’s longevity. Hill residents may frequently travel up rocky mountainous terrain and roadways. Your engine will become more worn as a result of this ascent, which demands more work.
People who live in cooler regions will endure extended, snowy winters. To avoid ice, the majority of towns and cities will salt the roadways. The metalwork on the underbelly of your Explorer will corrode and develop fractures as a result of this ice.
By moving more slowly across mountainous terrain, you lessen these problems. Clean your car frequently to remove salt, debris, and other waste that could harm the surface of your car.
3. Routine Servicing
Wondering about the best way to prolong the lifespan of your Ford Explorer? Adopt effective maintenance measures.
Regular oil changes and sporadic fluid replacements are ways of maintaining your car. Keep tabs on the changes in your Ford Explorer and fix it as soon as you detect something strange.
Your Explorer should continue to operate at its peak for many years with routine servicing.
How Quickly Might a Ford Explorer Start to Corrode?
After roughly four years, a Ford Explorer, particularly those from model years 2000 and above, will likely start to corrode.
Ford previously employed steel to construct an Explorer. But the business substituted more resilient steel for aluminum in its pursuit of lightweight, more gasoline-efficient models.
Due to its reduced mass, aluminum decreases mass while enhancing fuel efficiency. But the lightweight metal lacks steel’s toughness and weight.
Many Ford Explorer customers claim that their car corrodes too quickly. Enamel blisters on the bonnet signal an issue that spreads to other areas of the car.
A dissent case has been filed against Ford because of the Explorer’s rusting issue. The business has provided dealers with a number of technical service bulletins (TSBs) since 2004 regarding how to handle corrosion on Explorers.
If you intend to purchase a used Explorer made after 2000, look for blisters, corrosion, and flaking paint on the bonnet and other exterior elements. Purchasing a car with rust may result in costly repairs and lower resale prices.
Steel paneling from vintage Ford Explorer models does not corrode too quickly. However, modern customers could find them to be out of date.
How Durable Is the Ford Explorer in Comparison to Other Vehicles?
From their rough beginnings, Ford Explorers have advanced significantly.
The Explorer can compete with biggest rivals like the Honda Pilot, Jeep Cherokee, and Chevrolet Traverse in areas of dependability and lifespan.
With routine servicing, the Pilot can travel over 400k miles, while the Jeep Cherokee can survive for 15 to 20 years. These numbers are comparable to the Explorer’s longevity of 17 years and 300,000 miles.
To attain such a long life span, these models will require that they be handled with special caution.
How Reliable Is a Ford Explorer?
An explorer was designed with a number of issues.
Models from the 1st and 2nd generations frequently rolled over in the middle of a turn. Additionally, there were numerous instances of timing belt degradation and transmission malfunction.
The breakdown of the Explorers’ factory-assembled Firestone tire caused a major controversy to break out.
The Ford Explorer receives a really low dependability rating. The 202 Explorer ranks 19th out of 26 medium SUVs according to J.D. Power, which gives it a rating of 3.5 out of 5.
The Explorer is not necessarily undependable as a result. It does not, nevertheless, excel in its field.
However, since its difficult early years, the Ford explorer has developed, and you may currently experience decades of convenient driving from the model.
Vintage Models of the Ford Explorer
Vintage Ford Explorer models have a tendency to last better than more recent ones.
For instance, the 1996 Ford Explorer is reported to have more than 200,000 miles; in contrast, modern vehicles start to have serious issues after 150,000 miles.
A Ford Explorer customer claimed to have driven 185,000 miles in their 2002 model. Some other person has covered 192,000 miles in their 2001 Explorer. This proves that Explorers from this time period will last you for close to 20 years.
Why are more recent Ford Explorers less trustworthy? Producers’ increased emphasis on lowering pollution and enhancing efficiency is one explanation for this.
Lightweight components are needed for a car that consumes less gasoline. Nevertheless, compared to sturdy materials, these lighter ones have a tendency to become more brittle.
Regular Servicing Problems
Ford Explorer customers may have a number of distinct problems, and as the car ages, each one becomes more problematic.
For the 2006 model, the transmission has several of the most frequent issues.
When shifting, the 2006 Ford Explorer experienced a number of problems, including rattling and slamming, difficulty entering the drive, and much more.
The toughest automotive component to acquire that continues to function effectively after a number of years is the transmission, yet no matter how aged the 2006 Explorer became, the transmission never functioned properly.
Transmission problems were a common occurrence with 2006 Ford Explorers.
With the Ford Explorer, poor idling and motor stopping are common issues as well, particularly with earlier versions.
The lifespan of the car ought not to be greatly impacted by this problem, which is typically simple to fix.
Air conditioner unit issues have been reported by several Ford Explorer users. These issues affect various model years. It typically has to do with the antifreeze.
There have been a number of reports on the 2020 Explorer for a wide range of various problems.
Additionally, it has appeared on a few models. There was a chance that gasoline could escape, which could start a fire.
There were problems with the airbag, including bad wiring that may have damaged other interior components like the air conditioner belt or the harness if it had come into proximity with them.
Although it appears that the majority of the other reports involve much less serious problems than those previously stated, this serves to highlight the sheer number of potential problems.
The fact that there were so many reports when the car was just put on sale is particularly alarming.
Ensure the safety of your Ford Explorer if you want it to last for many years.
This entails performing fluid maintenance, replacing your wheels, and replacing the lubricant every four months, among other things.
The Explorer’s lifespan would indeed be contingent on the climate and location in which you drive it.
Lastly, as the vehicle ages, some components will need to be replaced, but maintaining them in excellent condition will guarantee a prolonged, joyful, even evolutionary lifespan for your Explorer.
The Best Year for Ford Explorer
What model year is the right choice? We’ve previously addressed how the 2006 Ford Explorer is the current worst vehicle.
Fewer consumers worry about Ford Explorers manufactured prior to 2002. Additionally reliable for motorists are the Explorerss made from 2007 and 2012.
The 2010 and 2011 Ford Explorer, however, are, without a doubt, the ideal vehicles to date. Given that it is the final model of an era, motorists rank the 2010 as one of the best models.
The 2010 Ford Explorer retains this appearance, although subsequent Explorers have a distinctive appearance. A modern period of exploration began with the 2011 Ford Explorer.
Motorists have required the capability to modify the drive based on the geography of an adventurous car.
The 2011 Ford Explorer featured topography navigation instead of the straightforward 2WD/4WD controls utilized by earlier models.
How Long Do the Ford Explorer Brakes Last?
The brakes are well-engineered, and you can anticipate a lifespan of about 40,000 kilometers under typical driving conditions. The driving environment affects the lifespan of your brake. Your brake system should typically last 25,000 miles or more before needing to be replaced. Since changing your brakes would only cost you less than $200, you do not need to panic.
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What Is the Lifespan of the Ford Explorer Hybrid Battery Cells?
Ford estimates that the hybrid cells will last 80,000 miles or, at minimum, eight years before needing change. Nevertheless, because hybrid cells will be released in 2020, it ought to be highlighted that users aren’t entirely certain about them. We are inclined to believe that the hybrid cells can endure that much time because the Ford Escape Hybrid is a dependable vehicle. To replace the cells, you will need about $5,000, so take very good care of them.
How Long Do the Ford Explorer Wheels Last?
The average American motorist travels 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, and their Ford Explorer wheels last at least five years. Although they appear to have had some tread life, the manufacturer advises its customers to replace their vehicle wheels no later than six years.
You must consider this advice extremely seriously because automobile wheels are essential for maintaining vehicle performance. Even if everything else is in working order, you won’t have the liberty to control your car correctly without decent wheels.
How Long Do the Ford Explorer Transmission Last?
Between 80,000 and 180,000 miles should be the expected lifespan of your transmission if it is in good working order and has no defects. Nevertheless, it should be noted that transmission issues are extremely prevalent across several Ford Explorer versions. Therefore, it must be managed precisely if you want to increase its lifespan.
Production flaws cause the majority of the problems you will note. Fortunately, the company’s warranties will always address these flaws. The topography and user practices will also significantly impact transmission longevity.
How Long Do the Ford Explorer Ignition System Last?
The expected lifespan of your Ford Explorer is between 30,000 and 50,000 kilometers. Next, consider purchasing iridium or spark plugs with a platinum edge. These will last between 60,000 and 250,000 miles, but they are more expensive.
To keep your car in tip-top shape, you should budget $4171 every month, which comes to approximately $2,052 annually. However, because they have a significant effect on spark plugs, crucial parameters, including geography, yearly mileage, insurance services, and driving history, should be taken into account.
Ways to Increase the Lifespan of Your Ford Explorer
Below are some pointers to assist you in keeping your Explorer in operation for just as long as you intend:
1. Adhere to the approved maintenance manual from the company
Numerous Explorer-related issues are the outcome of users disregarding manufacturers’ advice.
Regularly repair your Explorer as soon as it needs to be serviced to maintain it in peak condition.
2. Keep an eye on the oil; your car’s lifeline is lubrication.
For your motor, gearbox, steering wheel, and other parts, inspect the oil gauge and add more or replace it as needed.
You’ll avoid a significant number of issues this way.
3. Constantly Check Wheel Pressure
Constantly keep your wheels correctly pumped to reduce unnecessary wheel deterioration, bad usage, and unpleasant trips.
For your Explorer, incorrect wheel pressure might lead to expensive issues.
To prevent these problems, spend money on a tire thrust level.
4. Be a Mindful Driver
Your driving style may contribute to failing transaxles, damaged connectors and tires, gasoline recession, and other problems.
If you want your Explorer to live an extended life, do not abuse it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ford Explorer model year is the most reliable?
The 2016 Ford Explorer is generally considered the most reliable model year of Explorer. The engine, transmission and other components have been updated since that time, so more recent models may be reliable as well.
Is repairing a Ford Explorer costly?
Compared to the national total of $573 for medium sport utility vehicles and $652 for all kinds of vehicles, the yearly price of inspection and replacements for a Ford Explorer is $732.
Why is the Ford Explorer so well-known?
The Ford Explorer is well-known for its reliable performance, spacious interior, and modern safety features. It has been a top-selling SUV since it first debuted in the mid 90s. The Explorer offers a smooth ride with good fuel efficiency and plenty of power under the hood—all at an affordable price point that appeals to many consumers.
Additionally, its long list of convenience features makes it an attractive choice for families who may be looking for something more than just transportation from place to place. Its combination of value and practicality has made the Ford Explorer one of America’s most popular SUVs across multiple generations.
How many miles can a Ford Explorer safely travel?
Ford Explorer vehicles can safely travel between 10,000 and 15,000 miles per year with consistent routine maintenance. Most models will easily reach beyond 180,000 miles with continued regular maintenance.
Does Ford Explorer have good mileage?
The Ford Explorer SUV has an EPA-estimated gas mileage of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for a 22 mpg combined average. Depending on driving conditions, this mileage can vary significantly from one trip to another. has an estimated fuel rating of 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, depending on engine size and model year. These ratings are slightly lower than comparable vehicles in its class, but this is due to their larger size.
Ford Explorer or Ford Escape, which is superior?
The Ford Explorer is superior because it has a larger engine and more features, such as three-row seating and more cabin space. The Escape is smaller and better suited for city driving.
Do Ford Explorers have 4WD or AWD?
Some Ford Explorers have AWD, while others are available with 4WD.
Final Thoughts
Even though this article is long, it has everything you need to know about how long a Ford Explorer will last. This post will be helpful if you intend to buy this outstanding SUV. If you’re a user desiring ideal procedures to improve your SUV’s performance, ensure to get it serviced frequently.
Although the Ford Explorer is a fantastic SUV with amazing features, not all of its variants will meet your needs. So please always ensure that you conduct your research before making a purchase. For instance, the models produced between 2004 and 2006 frequently have numerous issues that could cost you a fortune to fix.
Nevertheless, just as with any other vehicle, how you treat your Ford Explorer will determine how well it serves you. Driving responsibly is important, and you should replace your wheels no more than every six years. Contact a professional as soon as you spot a mechanical malfunction to prevent it from getting out of control.
The hybrid cells look intriguing, but given that they are so recent, it is difficult to predict how long they will last. Whenever we discover more about Ford’s new hybrid cells, we’ll be certain to modify this article.
Roughly 49,000 miles into its lifespan, the 2006 Explorer began to experience antifreeze and transmission technical glitches, which were the most frequent problems. Additionally, customers mentioned wheel bearing deterioration, motor malfunction, and radiator leakage.
We urge you to stay away from the 2002 and 2006 models of the Explorer if you desire peace of mind. These types are more susceptible to a wide range of issues, have greater maintenance expenses, and are susceptible to becoming wastes of money very rapidly.
Motorists report below 100 issues for the latest model, which ranges from 2017 to 2020.