What are the most common Ford Explorer problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,679+ owner reports, the 2018-2018 Ford Explorer has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.5L Internal Water Pump Failure, Power Transfer Unit (PTU) overheating and bearing failure on AWD models, Internal timing-chain-driven water pump failure leading to coolant-in-oil and possible engine destruction. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford Explorer reliable?
The 2018-2018 Ford Explorer has 6 known issues documented across 1,679+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: 3.5L Internal Water Pump Failure and Power Transfer Unit (PTU) overheating and bearing failure on AWD models and Internal timing-chain-driven water pump failure leading to coolant-in-oil and possible engine destruction. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford Explorer problems?
Repair costs for known Ford Explorer issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 3.5L Internal Water Pump Failure, typically costs $1,500-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer 3.5L Internal Water Pump Failure?
The 3.5L V6 engine (both naturally aspirated and EcoBoost versions) features an internal water pump located under the engine front cover. When this pump fails, it can leak coolant internally into the engine crankcase, contaminating the oil and potentially causing catastrophic eng… Repairs typically run $1,500-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer Power Transfer Unit (PTU) overheating and bearing failure on AWD models?
AWD Explorers use a compact Power Transfer Unit bolted to the transaxle that sends drive to the rear wheels. It holds only ~300-400ml of 'lifetime fill' fluid and sits next to the exhaust, so heat cooks the fluid and it degrades well before 100k miles. Once the fluid breaks down,… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,100. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer Internal timing-chain-driven water pump failure leading to coolant-in-oil and possible engine destruction?
On the 2011-2019 transverse Explorer, Ford located the water pump INSIDE the engine, behind the timing cover, driven off the primary timing chain. When the pump's internal shaft seal fails, coolant first weeps from a passage on the passenger side of the block, but if ignored (or… Repairs typically run $2,000-$4,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer PTU (Power Transfer Unit) Failure?
The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) on AWD-equipped Explorers is prone to premature failure due to its proximity to the exhaust pipe and catalytic converter, causing overheating. Fluid leaks from disconnected vent hoses are common, and if fluid level drops too low, the PTU can fail com… Repairs typically run $400-$2,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer Exterior A-pillar windshield trim can detach and become a road hazard (Recall 24V031 / 24S02)?
Ford recalled approximately 1.9 million 2011-2019 Explorers because the exterior A-pillar trim applique (the molding flanking the windshield) may not be properly secured—the retention clips can be unengaged due to improper assembly or prior repair—allowing the trim to detach duri… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer 6F50/6F55 six-speed automatic harsh 'bump' shifts, sluggish low-speed response and torque-converter shudder?
The 2011+ transverse Explorer switched to the 6F50/6F55 six-speed automatic, which is widely reported for a sluggish 0-5 mph roll-out followed by a harsh 'bump' or clunk, plus torque-converter shudder and occasional shift flare. Ford addressed the low-speed bump with TSB 11-12-10… Repairs typically run $150-$3,500. Severity: medium.
