2020 Ford Explorer Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Transmission issues are the primary concern, with many owners reporting failures and erratic shifting at low mileage, significantly impacting drivability and potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Electrical system faults are also common, ranging from minor glitches to complete system shutdowns, which can affect vehicle operation and driver information.
- A high recall count of 77 indicates numerous potential component and safety system issues that must be verified as addressed.
- Despite a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, specific recalls and complaints highlight risks in critical areas like braking and powertrain.
2020 Ford Explorer
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent reports of hard shifting, slipping between gears, failure to engage gears, and transmission fluid leaks.
Early detection can help you avoid a $5,000-$10,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 400HP
- Torque
- 415 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing strong safety scores and performance who are willing to accept a higher risk of mechanical issues.
+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
2020 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Ford Explorer.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Horsepower
- 400 hp
- Torque
- 415 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 19
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 384 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 165 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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Full FAQ
Is the 2020 Ford Explorer reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Ford Explorer is 3.4/10. Reliability score is 3.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 77. Owner complaints: 1,480.
How practical is the 2020 Ford Explorer for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 515 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Ford Explorer?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Ford Explorer is 5.6/10. Overall score is 5.6/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Tuning 7.0/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Ford Explorer?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $6,000+).
What engine is in the 2020 Ford Explorer?
Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.3. Output is 400 hp • 415 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2020 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2020 Explorer require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Ford Explorer?
EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Ford Explorer?
15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2020 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Ford Explorer, fuel economy range is 18-24 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2020 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Ford Explorer, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2020 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Ford Explorer, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Ford Explorer?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2020 Ford Explorer good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 7/10. The 2020 Ford Explorer ST is a performance-oriented SUV with a potent 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. Popular platforms: Ford Explorer ST.
Should I tune the 2020 Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer ST is a performance-oriented SUV with a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, making it a good candidate for tuning. It has a cult following among enthusiasts, and aftermarket support for performance parts is generally available for Ford vehicles. The ST trim specifically targets a more performance-minded buyer, indicating a higher likelihood of aftermarket modifications.
How to get more than 400 hp out of a 2020 Ford Explorer?
Tuning potential is rated 7/10, indicating headroom beyond the factory 400 hp output.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2020 Ford Explorer?
Top complaint category: power train (384 reports, 25.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Ford Explorer?
This model year has 77 official safety campaigns listed.