2011 Ford Explorer

Introduction:

The 2011 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV offered with a choice of three engines and two transmission options:

• 3.5L V6 (290 horsepower/255 lb-ft torque) with 6-speed automatic transmission
• 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (355 horsepower/350 lb-ft torque) with 6-speed automatic transmission
• 2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder (240 horsepower/270 lb-ft torque) with 6-speed automatic transmission

The Explorer is praised for its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and powerful engine options. However, it has faced some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Cam Phaser Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise at engine start-up, rough idle, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replacement of cam phasers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Guide Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, illumination of check engine light, possible engine damage
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain guides
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 14S07, 14S08
• Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, hesitation during acceleration, increased emissions
  • Solution: Replacement of intake manifold runner control motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: 11S08

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased oil consumption, loud noises from engine
  • Solution: Replacement of turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: 14S01, 16S26
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, hard starting, reduced fuel economy
  • Solution: Replacement of high-pressure fuel pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder

• Direct Injection Fuel Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, engine stalling, rough idle
  • Solution: Replacement of direct injection fuel pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replacement of torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting issues, illumination of check engine light, limp mode
  • Solution: Replacement of transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from suspension, vibration during braking
  • Solution: Replacement of lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, reduced stability, noise during driving
  • Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Draining:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical system, possible replacement of battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not opening or closing properly, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replacement of power window motors or switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Struts Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear hatch not opening or closing properly, sags or falls
  • Solution: Replacement of rear hatch struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate not opening or closing properly, rattling or wobbling
  • Solution: Replacement of tailgate hinges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sync System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen not responding, Bluetooth connectivity issues, system crashes
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting system, possible replacement of Sync module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower not blowing air properly, intermittent operation, excessive noise
  • Solution: Replacement of blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Ford Explorer has faced some reliability concerns, particularly with its engine, transmission, and suspension. While the severity of the issues can be significant, the cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific problem. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and take proper maintenance steps to mitigate their risk.