How Long Do Ford Explorers Last?

The Ford Explorer was introduced in 1991 as a four-door SUV with huge cargo space, luxury, and modern functions and features.

If you’re in the market looking to find the perfect SUV for your requirement, then the Explorer should be on the list of cars you are looking at.

Moreover, each SUV should have a few basic features to fulfill the customer’s requirement of buying an actual SUV. The Ford Explorer offers this known feature and much more.

How long do Ford Explorers last?

Is this running through your mind as well?

The Explorer has a life span rate of 200,000 miles which is 10-17 years of outstanding performance from the vehicle.

The life percentage of just about any vehicle, SUV or not, depends on the driver’s maintenance rate and driving habits.

Now that all the informative stuff is out, let’s dive into the features, specs, and overall performance of the Ford Explorer.

So if you are super serious about buying the SUV, I’d suggest reading this article thoroughly, the fun gig, as I like to call it.

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Ford Explorer?

As I just mentioned above, the Ford Explorer has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles, up to 10-17 years of astonishing performance for the SUV.

No engine problems will arise as long as you make sure your vehicle’s maintenance is updated often.

Driving habits, another key factor in over-going the life expectancy of the Ford Explorer is to drive sensibly when on the road.

Does Ford Explorer Last Longer Than Similar Vehicles?

The only correct way to answer this statement is by a comparison.

If you want to know the Ford Explorer’s ability to surpass its competitors in terms of functions, features, specs, performance, reliability, mileage, lifespan, and overall market rating then keep on reading below as I break down these factors for you!

1. Ford Explorer Vs. Toyota Highlander

First up, I have a comparison between the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander.

The Highlander came into the business in 2001, and no doubt has taken the hearts of many but lets us find out which one is more reliable in terms of features.

• The Ford Explorer has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles which, as we discussed above, is 10-17 years of quality performance from the SUV.
• The Toyota Highlander has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles and, if properly and rightly maintained, can go up to 300,000 miles.
• Comparing the two, the Toyota guarantees the lifespan rate of the vehicle will increase with maintenance but so will the Ford Explorer, so for a midsize SUV, I would consider both lifespan to be standard hence a point for both.
• The mileage rate of the Explorer is 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, not bad, I would say, for a mid-size SUV, and with the base, RWD offers 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway whereas,
• The Highlander has a mileage rate of 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Comparing the two, I would say both the vehicles have similar lifespan rates hence another point for both.
• The overall rating of the Ford Explorer is 81 out of 100 for reliability and quality and 9.8 out of 10 for safety and security.
• The overall rating of the Toyota Highlander is 82 out of 100 for reliability and quality, whereas performance-wise, it has 9.4 out of 10. Both the vehicles have amazing ratings; hence the last point goes to both the SUVs again.

There is no doubt the Toyota Highlander is an amazing SUV, and so is the Ford Explorer; hence if the choice ever comes down to these two vehicles, I’d say go for either one.

You won’t be disappointed.

Related: How Long Does A Toyota Highlander Last?

2. Ford Explorer Vs. Chevy Traverse

Next up, I have a comparison between the Ford Explorer and Chevy Traverse. The Chevy Traverse was introduced in 2008-2009. It is a full-size 7 to 8-seater SUV.

It surpasses the Ford Explorer in terms of space but let us find out what more it has to offer over the explorer:

• The Lifespan rate of the Chevy Traverse is 200,000 miles which is 13.5 years for this huge SUV on a 15,000 mileage use per year, whereas,
• The Ford Explorer has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles as well. Still, with 10-17 years of excellent performance, comparing the two rates, even though they’re both stating 200,000 miles.
• I would consider this a win for the Ford Explorer because the vehicle longevity varies from owner to owner. The Ford has been able to surpass the 200,000 miles mark.
• The mileage rate of the Ford Explorer is 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway with a combined total of 23 MPG, and with a base RWD, it offers 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.
• The mileage rate of the Chevy Traverse is 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The Ford Explorer has a higher mileage rate hence a point for the Explorer in this category.
• The overall rating of the Chevy Traverse is 82 out of 100 for the quality and reliability of the full-size SUV, and safety rates are 9.8 out of 10.
• The overall rating of the Ford Explorer is 81 out of 100 for reliability and quality and 9.8 out of 10 for safety features. Comparison between the two in this category isn’t necessary both the vehicles offer an amazing market rate in terms of specs.

I would suggest going for the Ford Explorer over the Chevy Traverse, mainly because Ford has a higher performance rate in the market than the Chevy and because the mileage rate of the Ford Explorer is more than the Chevy Traverse.

Related: How Many Miles Can A Chevy Traverse Last?

3. Ford Explorer Vs. Kia Telluride

The last comparison I have is between the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride. The Kia Telluride was introduced to the market in 2016 as a concept vehicle.

Although its market presence isn’t as long as the Ford Explorer, it has become a rival for the explorer:

• The Kia Telluride has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles with 15,000 miles per year of usage and a longevity rate of 13 years on the dot.
• The Ford Explorer has a lifespan rate of 200,000 miles, but the company offers a longevity rate of 10-17 years. I would give this win to the Ford Explorer as it has a higher percentage lasting in terms of years.
• The mileage rate of the Kia Telluride is 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway and a combined total of 23 MPG, the average MPG rate as it has an 18.8-gallon tank.
• The mileage rate of the Ford Explorer is 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, and with the RWD base, it has 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.
• Comparing the two, the Explorer has a bit of a higher mileage rate; hence, it also wins this category.
• The overall rating of the Ford Explorer is 81 out of 100 for reliability and quality of the mid-size SUV and 9.8 out of 10 in terms of safety specs of the vehicle, whereas,
• The Kia Telluride has an overall rating of 85 out of 100 for reliability and quality and 9.3 out of 10 for safety. Both the vehicles have excellent ratings.

I would say go for the Ford Explorer in this comparison too. If you are buying a mid-size SUV, buy the one with the better specs, the Explorer in this case.

Average Life Expectancy Of Ford Explorer Car Parts

Right under this topic, I will be discussing the car parts of the Ford Explorer and what lifespan you can expect from them in terms of longevity.

Moreover, before you do start reading, know one common fact, the longevity or life expectancy of any car part depends on the owner and its usage. Hence maintenance is key in this term.

Let us discuss it further!

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Brake Pads

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer brake pads is 30,000 miles, to say the least, and 70,000 miles the longest.

If you get tangled up in traffic and overuse your brake pads, then expect them to not as long as you were guaranteed, avoiding driving unnecessarily.

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Battery

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer battery is three years with minimum wage and five years maximum.

Usually, any car battery lasts at this rate what matters is how you use and upkeep your SUV’s battery.

Try not to park outside, especially in extreme weather, and don’t leave the car unused for too long.

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Tires

The lifespan of tires can increase, no doubt that is if you drive less and avoid patchy and bumpy roads.

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer tires is 12,000 miles to 15,000 miles, depending on how the owner uses the vehicle, which is approximately three years of the average lifespan rate of the Explorer tires.

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Transmission

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer transmission is anywhere between 80,000 miles to 180,000 miles.

As I previously discussed, the lifespan of any SUV car part depends on its usage and how the owner maintains it. In contrast, the lifespan of the Transmission varies from model to model.

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Spark Plugs

The spark plugs’ longevity depends on the type of spark plugs, basically quality.

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer spark plugs is 30,000 miles to 50,000 miles, and this is a guaranteed spark plug rate by ford.

The platinum or iridium spark plugs will last you 60,000 miles to the highest rate of 250,000 miles, but the only downside is their price.

Average Lifespan Of Ford Explorer Key Fobs

The average lifespan of the Ford Explorer key fob is 2-3 years for smart keys and 4-6 years for the regular key fob.

The life expectancy of the key fob means the lifespan of the battery. The key fob just needs a quick battery change to work again. You don’t need to replace the whole key.

What Is Good Mileage For A Used Ford Explorer?

The lesser, the better, good mileage for a used Ford Explorer, I would say is between 30,000-40,000, mainly because some models of the Ford have faults that decrease its lifespan rate to 100,000 with annoying problems.

So if the original ford explorer offers a lifespan rate of 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles, the used one should have a lesser mileage for you to properly enjoy all the specs and features of this mid-size SUV.

How To Increase How Long Your Ford Explorer Last

When buying a vehicle of any model or type, it is crucial to know precautionary terms to increase its lifespan rate.

Here are some key factors to look into and make due of to increase the lifespan rate of the Ford Explorer:

• Make sure to change the engine oil properly on regular basis.
• Battery maintenance is one of the key factors in increasing the lifespan of the Ford Explorer. Restart your mid-size vehicle daily to make sure the battery is working sanely.
• Using good quality car parts during repairing or replacing is another key factor in increasing the lifespan rate of the Ford Explorer.
• Parking your car outside when not in use or poor weather conditions are also something you should avoid to increase the life expectancy of the ford explorer.
• Washing your car and keeping it squeaky clean will stop the Ford Explorer from rusting, increasing the exterior longevity of the vehicle.

Above I mentioned some of the key factors you can adopt in your daily life to increase the average rate of the Ford Explorer.

Problems That Limit The Life Of Your Ford Explorer

Yes, sadly, problems are also available with this mid-size luxury vehicle. With all the cool specs the Ford Explorer offers, you’d think it’s a perfect car, but it is far from it.

Here are some common problems faced by Explorer owners:

• Exterior problems with the Ford Explorer have been reported too many times and with every model. The paint is peeling off, and the vehicle is rusting due to various conditions.
• Transmission failure the Ford Explorer has a transmission failure rate of just 100,000 miles which is one of the main reasons for the decrease in its lifespan. Especially in the models from 2002 to 2005, transmission replacement does not come cheap.
• Noises caused by the engine due to worn timing chain cassettes. This means that the timing chains went loose and is caused due to the loose chain vibrating when spinning from the crankshaft.
• Faulty heater system, the Ford Explore overheats due to the heater getting stuck on the highest setting. This is due to the failure of the heater blend door, so you basically won’t have control over your car’s temperature, and that’s chaotic.

These are just some of the problems I listed that I found were more alarming than the others, the Ford Explorer has many other problems, and all Explorer models are faulty in some terms.

Related: Ford Explorer Starting Problems

What To Look For When Buying A Ford Explorer

Keen on buying a Ford Explorer, then don’t worry and be confident as I have listed out some key factors to look into before buying the Ford Explorer. Used or original doesn’t matter.

Keep on reading below:

• The mileage of a used Ford Explorer should be as minimum as possible. This will give you more lifespan and better performance.
• The exterior of the car should be eye appealing to one’s requirements. There should be no signs or possible reasons for rusting.
• The transmission system should be fully intact and working perfectly, with no signs of failure or fault.
• The engine should not be making any weird noises. Look for these factors in used vehicles especially.
• The interior dashboard system should be working smoothly, and your vehicle’s heater should be adjustable and working in stable condition.

These common specs need to be looked into in the Ford Explorer before putting a leash on your very own mid-size SUV by Ford.

Related: Best And Worst Years For Ford Explorer

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is The Ford Explorer A Reliable Car?

Yes, the Ford Explorer is a very reliable car.

This SUV has a reliability rate of 81 out of 100, which is amazing because a rating of 80 and above is considered excellent in the sales-purchase business.

Q2. Does Ford Explorer Have A Lot Of Problems?

Yes, I would say the Explorer has several problems that are a bit too alarming such as:

• Noisy engine, engine failure is very likely in the car, and it decreases the vehicle’s lifespan.
• The faulty engine factor also causes a vibration due to high acceleration.
• Transmission failure, this problem is very common and almost in every Ford Explorer model.
• The heater system is said to get stuck on the highest setting, hence no control over your car’s temperature.

These problems are very annoying and cause a huge con in the name of the Ford SUVs. Because of these problems, the Ford Explorer had a huge downfall in sales in recent years.

Q3. Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Used Ford Explorer?

Yes, I would suggest buying a used Ford Explorer. Still, on a few terms, the mileage rate needs to be as low as possible.

The exterior of the car should be in perfect shape, and the interior, which are common problems with every explorer model, should be looked into.

Other than that, the used Ford Explorer will last you a good amount of time if maintained properly.

Q4. Does Ford Explorer Rust Easily?

Yes, the Ford Explorers do rust, but I wouldn’t say easily. Rusting is a process, and it takes place due to a certain circumstance.

Driving your vehicle in the snow, rain, or on salty roads will cause the Explorer to rust faster than the drier conditions.

Q5. Is Ford Explorer Expensive To Maintain?

Yes, the Ford Explorer is expensive to maintain the mid-size SUV has a maintenance rate of $732 yearly, whereas the average maintenance rate of a mid-size SUV is $573 yearly.

This is a huge price difference, I would say. The Ford Explorer has a higher maintenance rate as compared to its competitors as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can easily sort out factors you liked and disliked about the Ford Explorer.

I made sure to touch on every subject to give you an honest idea of what the Explorer is all about, with no questioning that it is an outstanding mid-size SUV.

Still, some cons do make it a bit out of reach. I made sure to answer all the frequently asked questions, such as how long do Ford explorers last?

How much does annual maintenance cost, does it have problems or not all, and much more, so start reading and see if the vehicle is worth your money.

Tahir Azam

I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.