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    Ford Explorer

    EPA MPG: 23 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 12 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2023 Explorer is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2023 Ford Explorer has been recalled 12 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2023 Ford Explorer owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen freezes up

    "Driving touched the screen and nothing happened It froze...tapped it several times...nothing Stopped the vehicle turned off the ignition screen stayed on...googled frozen screen and found solution"

    Anonymous, ON (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Display screen goes blank

    ""screen would go black every oftentimes called Ford and they sent out a representative to repair, no more problems""

    Anonymous, TX (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    In-dash navigation system (GPS)

    "It has an issue understanding the name of the location. It will list locations that are not even close to the one I stated. It will take me through numerous side roads instead of staying on a main road. It does not show congestion ahead or blocked roadways. I use my Iphone a lot for directions."

    Anonymous A., NJ (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)
    Radio

    "Radio was off when I stopped. When I started it again the radio was on and would NOT turn off."

    Anonymous, PA (2023 Ford Explorer Platinum 3.0-L V6 turbo)
    Voice control commands

    ""It does not understand commands or gives wrong destinations for navigation, then it gives a long list of instructions on what to say to it. When trying to make a phone call it will give a list of three contacts to pick from some of which do not even sound close to the one I wanted.""

    Anonymous A., NJ (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other noises & leaks problem

    "windshield washer fluid reservoir sloshes out of the filler neck and leaks onto an wiring harness connector right in front of the filer neck. you can not keep the fluid reservoir full because of it and Ford has no solution"

    Anonymous, VA (2023 Ford Explorer ST 3.0-L V6 turbo)
    Squeaks or rattles

    "IT SOUNDS LIKE A LOOSE STRUT THAT CONTINUOUSLY RATTLES ON BUMPY ROADS. AND WHEN YOU SHUT THE DOORS THE LOWER PART OF THE DOOR RATTLES LIKE IT ISN'T VERY SOLID. IT SOUNDS CHEAP."

    Anonymous, AZ (2023 Ford Explorer XLT 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "A noise insulation panel was loose. Dealer fixed problem."

    Anonymous A., FL (2023 Ford Explorer XLT 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    "There is a rattling noise at highway speed. Sounds like something rattling in door pocket. Dealer service says it is splash guard under car and is a common complaint that Ford does not recognize as a problem to fix."

    Anonymous, WI (2023 Ford Explorer XLT 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "gps not working properly"

    Anonymous, MI (2023 Ford Explorer XLT Unsure)

    "Broken shock that rattled excessively and once found the part ordered and replaced."

    Anonymous, (2023 Ford Explorer King Ranch 3.0-L V6 turbo)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Driveline vibration

    "It was this way when we bought it. There was a vibration in the right side of the driver seat between 35-45 mph"

    Anonymous A., IL (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 3.3-L V6 hybrid)

    ""After, balancing the tires, having shims put into the drive line, and being told this is a problem that ford knows about, but has no fix for, I still get a rough vibration through the entire vehicle, especially on cold or damp days.""

    Anonymous A., NS (2023 Ford Explorer Limited 3.3-L V6 hybrid)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "Ford can't fix the garbage under carriage cover rattling, loading rigidity and rattles entire vehicle"

    Anonymous A., FL (2023 Ford Explorer ST 3.0-L V6 turbo)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Shocks or struts

    "Ford any build a front strut that doesn't fall apart"

    Anonymous A., FL (2023 Ford Explorer ST 3.0-L V6 turbo)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    Other electrical system problem

    "Dash lit up with warnings. A rear wheel rotation sensor had a bad connection. Connector was replaced under warranty. All good now."

    Anonymous A., CO (2023 Ford Explorer Base 2.3-L 4 Cyl turbo)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    2023 SUVs Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
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    NA

    NA

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
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    Engine Major
    NA
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    Engine Minor
    NA
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    Engine Cooling
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
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    Engine Electrical
    NA
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    Transmission Major
    NA
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    Transmission Minor
    NA
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    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    EQUIPMENT
    Oct 10, 2025
    An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
    What should you do:
    Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed October 24, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated February 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V685000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 59006
    FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
    Jul 07, 2025
    An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
    What should you do:
    The remedy is under development. Interim notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed July 16, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated March 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V455000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 850318
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    Jun 27, 2025
    A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V442000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 200186
    SEATS
    Jun 13, 2025
    A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V393000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 304662
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    Mar 14, 2025
    Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V159000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 49399
    EQUIPMENT
    Nov 08, 2024
    Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
    What should you do:
    Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 24V852000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 27678
    STEERING, SUSPENSION
    Feb 08, 2024
    A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can cause improper tire alignment, resulting in a steering pull or require increased steering effort. Additionally, the brake hose may contact the tire and become damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak and a loss of braking ability. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles. The right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut may be loose or missing.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect the fasteners, and tighten or install them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 08, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S04.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 24V091000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 121
    BACK OVER PREVENTION, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
    Oct 13, 2023
    A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles equipped with a standard rearview camera. Due to a manufacturing error in the wire harness, the rearview camera may display a blue image on the SYNC screen when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect the rearview camera wire harness and repair any loose splices, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C31.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V686000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2866
    ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
    Aug 25, 2023
    An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines. The turbocharger oil supply line may be damaged, which can result in an oil leak inside the engine compartment.
    What should you do:
    Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as soon as possible if they see an oil pressure warning light or smoke coming from the engine compartment. Dealers will replace the turbo oil supply line assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S50.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V597000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 10
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    May 12, 2023
    Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V342000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 442973
    POWER TRAIN
    Feb 10, 2023
    The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The transmission may contain a loose bolt which could prevent the transmission from engaging the park gear, although the gear shifter position may indicate that the vehicle has been shifted to "PARK."
    What should you do:
    Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S06.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V070000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1138
    BACK OVER PREVENTION
    Jan 23, 2023
    Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V022000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 382759
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