What are the most common problems with the 2015 Ford Explorer?

**Exhaust fume intrusion** is a significant and persistent issue, often causing headaches and dizziness. This is the primary ownership risk.

How many recalls does the 2015 Ford Explorer have?

The 2015 Ford Explorer currently has 20 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2015 Ford Explorer a good buy used?

Verdict: High risk. **Exhaust fume intrusion** is a significant and persistent issue, often causing headaches and dizziness. This is the primary ownership risk. **Steering system failures**, including loss of assist and locking, are a serious safety concern requiring immediate attention during inspection. **Suspension issues**, particularly with rear toe links, are noted in recalls and complaints, warranting careful examination. While safety ratings are high (5-star overall), the **below-average reliability verdict** necessitates a cautious approach to purchasing. Confirm all **20 recalls** have been addressed, especially those concerning the parking brake and rear suspension components. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2015 Ford Explorer?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2015 Ford Explorer.

2015 Ford Explorer Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

High risk

Key Takeaways

Exhaust fume intrusion is a significant and persistent issue, often causing headaches and dizziness. This is the primary ownership risk.
Steering system failures, including loss of assist and locking, are a serious safety concern requiring immediate attention during inspection.
Suspension issues, particularly with rear toe links, are noted in recalls and complaints, warranting careful examination.
While safety ratings are high (5-star overall), the below-average reliability verdict necessitates a cautious approach to purchasing.

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Overview

2015 Ford Explorer

The 2015 Ford Explorer offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, making it a practical choice for families. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. Significant concerns include recurring issues with exhaust fume intrusion into the cabin, which can pose health risks, and critical steering system failures. With 20 recalls and over 2,000 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential buyers must prioritize thorough inspections. The vehicle achieves a combined EPA-estimated 18 MPG, with its 3.5L V6 engine and All-Wheel Drive providing capable performance.

Critical Failure Risk

Reports of steering becoming stiff, unresponsive, or locking up. This is a critical safety concern that can lead to loss of control. Early reports suggest issues can arise at low mileages.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls20

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2052

Steering327

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing space and safety ratings over long-term dependability.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2015 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 18

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 327 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 223 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

20 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Full FAQ

Is the 2015 Ford Explorer reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 Ford Explorer is 4.5/10. Reliability score is 4.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 20. Owner complaints: 2,052.

How practical is the 2015 Ford Explorer for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2015 Ford Explorer?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 Ford Explorer is 5.7/10. Overall score is 5.7/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 Ford Explorer?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Rack (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $2,500).

What engine is in the 2015 Ford Explorer?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2015 Ford Explorer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 Ford Explorer?

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 Ford Explorer?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2015 Ford Explorer?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Ford Explorer, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2015 Ford Explorer use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Ford Explorer?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2015 Ford Explorer good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2015 Ford Explorer, while a capable SUV with excellent safety ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side crash; 4-star rollover), presen...

What are the most common steering problems on the 2015 Ford Explorer?

Top complaint category: steering (327 reports, 15.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2015 Ford Explorer?

This model year has 20 official safety campaigns listed.