CarComplaints.com Notes: The previous generation of Explorer was so awful that the redesign in 2006 was greeted with much optimism. That didn't last long.
The transmission continues to be the Explorer's worst reliability problem. Owners report shifting hard & lunging, typically starting as low as 40k miles with a $1,600 average repair bill. On top of that, the radiator is prone to failure around 60k miles. Repairs for the radiator run $500 to $1,000 & many owners report they've had to replace the radiator multiple times for leaks, indicating a possible design defect in the OEM replacement parts.
Ford did make some significant changes to improve handling and safety. Electronic stability control was added in addition to side impact air bags, but beyond that this is a vehicle that should be avoided at all costs.
When I get in the car and start the engine, all of the dash lights go off and then suddenly turn on again like there is a short or glitch in the connection. Also, at the same time, my headlights (no matter if they are off or set to automatic) turn on and then off. Occasionally, the air bag light on the dash also stays on the entire time the engine is running. Has anyone had similar problems? I am concerned that these issues are only the beginning to a problem that may be very costly.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
When I get in the car and start the engine, all of the dash lights go off and then suddenly turn on again like there is a short or glitch in the connection. Also, at the same time, my headlights (no matter if they are off or set to automatic) turn on and then off. Occasionally, the air bag light on the dash also stays on the entire time the engine is running. Has anyone had similar problems? I am concerned that these issues are only the beginning to a problem that may be very costly.
- Michael O., Birmingham, AL, US