2021 Ford Explorer

Introduction

The 2021 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that offers a range of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 3.3-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic transmission with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine.

The Explorer is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive towing capacity. However, it has also received some criticism for its unintuitive infotainment system and lack of off-road capability.

Engine

3.3-liter V6

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of oil, low oil pressure warning light, engine knocking
  • Solution: Replace piston rings or engine block
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Valve Deposits
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, engine knocking
  • Solution: Clean or replace intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3-liter EcoBoost

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, excessive exhaust smoke, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0-liter EcoBoost

• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, difficulty starting, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace fuel pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, check engine light
  • Solution: Repair or replace cooling system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic

• Lack of Responsiveness
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or delay in shifting, lack of power
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid change
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, loss of power, grinding noises
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Lowered rear end, difficulty towing, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace rear springs or shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, weak battery, parasitic drain
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system, replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Slow response, freezing, software bugs
  • Solution: Software updates, hardware repairs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Blind Spot Monitor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, delayed response, lack of functionality
  • Solution: Replace radar sensors, reprogram computer
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 20V526, 21V217
• Tailgate Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing tailgate
  • Solution: Replace tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Recliner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty reclining or adjusting driver’s seat
  • Solution: Replace seat recliner mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or creaking noises from the steering wheel
  • Solution: Replace steering wheel, lubricate components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Ford Explorer has a range of potential issues, particularly with its engines, transmission, and exterior components. Some issues, such as timing chain failure and excessive oil consumption, can be severe and expensive to repair. Others, such as battery drain and infotainment system glitches, are less serious but can still be frustrating for owners. Overall, the vehicle’s reliability and cost of ownership should be carefully considered before purchasing.