2021 Ford Explorer Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Powertrain issues are the most significant concern, accounting for over 20% of all complaints. Expect potential transmission and engine problems.
- A high recall count of 56 indicates numerous factory-addressed issues, but also points to potential underlying systemic problems.
- The rear axle bolt fracture is a critical mechanical concern that could lead to drivetrain disconnect, demanding thorough pre-purchase inspection.
- While safety ratings are excellent (5-star overall), recurring back-over prevention (rearview camera) issues, despite multiple recalls, warrant attention.
2021 Ford Explorer
The 2021 Ford Explorer presents a mixed bag for used-car shoppers. While it boasts a top safety rating of 5 stars overall, its reliability record is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. With 56 recalls and 456 complaints logged with NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of the elevated risk profile. The most frequent complaints center on the powertrain, engine, and electrical systems, suggesting potential for costly repairs. Given the high number of recalls, potential repair costs are a factor to consider. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 19 MPG.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints include transmission slipping, hard shifting, and failure to engage. These issues can arise early in the vehicle's life.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy shoppers who understand the risks and are prepared for potential repairs, perhaps those with a trusted mechanic and a budget for unexpected 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
2021 Ford Explorer Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Ford Explorer.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Seating Capacity
- 6
- 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: 92 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 37 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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Full FAQ
Is the 2021 Ford Explorer reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Ford Explorer is 5.2/10. Reliability score is 5.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 56. Owner complaints: 456.
How practical is the 2021 Ford Explorer for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 6.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Ford Explorer is 5.8/10. Overall score is 5.8/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.0/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 4.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Ford Explorer?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $4,500).
What engine is in the 2021 Ford Explorer?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.
What transmission does the 2021 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Explorer, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2021 Explorer require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Ford Explorer?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Explorer, seating capacity is 6.
What body style is the 2021 Ford Explorer?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Explorer, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Ford Explorer use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ford Explorer, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Ford Explorer?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Ford Explorer good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2021 Ford Explorer, while a capable SUV, presents considerable challenges for performance tuning.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2021 Ford Explorer?
Top complaint category: power train (92 reports, 20.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Ford Explorer?
This model year has 56 official safety campaigns listed.