2019 Ford Explorer Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Structural integrity is the primary concern, with numerous reports of detached A-pillar trim and roof rails.
- Powertrain issues, including transmission performance and engine problems, are frequently cited.
- Exhaust fumes entering the cabin are a notable complaint, posing a potential health risk.
- Safety ratings are strong, with an overall 5-star NHTSA score, but inspect exterior trim for security.
2019 Ford Explorer
Critical Failure Risk
Exterior trim pieces, particularly A-pillar covers and roof rails, can become loose or detach from the vehicle. This is a recurring issue with multiple recalls and a high volume of owner complaints. The cause is often related to improper assembly or faulty clip attachments.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.
Full Recall History →Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing safety ratings and interior space over long-term mechanical dependability.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Ford Explorer.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 18
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Most Common Issues
1. Structure & Body
Most reportedUsage: 89 reports
2. Structure & Body
Usage: 33 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tires) - Multi-Point Inspection - Inspect Automatic Transmission Fluid Level - Inspect Brake System (Parts: Brake Pads, Brake Rotors, Brake Hoses, Parking Brake) - Inspect Engine Cooling System (Parts: Coolant, Hoses) - Inspect Exhaust System (Parts: Exhaust System Components, Heat Shields) - Inspect Rear Axle and U-Joints (4WD only) (Parts: Rear Axle Components, U-Joints)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Ford Explorer is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 288.
How practical is the 2019 Ford Explorer for daily use?
Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2019 Ford Explorer?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Ford Explorer is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 3.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Ford Explorer?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tires) - Multi-Point Inspection - Inspect Automatic Transmission Fluid Level - Inspect Brake System (Parts: Brake Pads, Brake Rotors, Brake Hoses, Parking Brake) - Inspect Engine Cooling System (Parts: Coolant, Hoses) - Inspect Exhaust System (Parts: Exhaust System Components, Heat Shields) - Inspect Rear Axle and U-Joints (4WD only) (Parts: Rear Axle Components, U-Joints) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: A-Pillar Trim / Roof Rails (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Ford Explorer?
Base MSRP is $34,400.
What engine is in the 2019 Ford Explorer?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.
What transmission does the 2019 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2019 Explorer require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Ford Explorer?
EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Ford Explorer?
10 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2019 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Explorer, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2019 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Explorer, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2019 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Ford Explorer?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2019 Ford Explorer good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. This guide details tuning and modification options for the 2019 Ford Explorer, emphasizing a realistic approach given its limited performanc...
What are the most common structure problems on the 2019 Ford Explorer?
Top complaint category: structure (89 reports, 30.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Ford Explorer?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.