Ford Explorer RWD
Ford · Cars · 2026
Ford Explorer RWD
89
12 complaints
status.verdict
status.safe
status.safe_sub
product.verdict_safe_minor
product.specifications
specs.g_fuel_economy
specs.city_mpg20
specs.highway_mpg29
specs.combined_mpg24
specs.annual_fuel_cost$2800
specs.ghg_score5 / 10
specs.g_engine_drivetrain
specs.engine_size2.3 L
specs.cylinders4
specs.fuel_typeRegular
specs.transmissionAutomatic 10-spd
specs.drivetrainRear-Wheel Drive
CO₂377 g/mi
specs.g_classification
specs.vehicle_classStandard Sport Utility Vehicle 2×2

specs.data_sourced_from FuelEconomy.gov (specs.energy_dept)

product.complaints_section12 total
FORD EXPLORER 2026 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
medium
I purchased this new car from Bell Ford on XXX. Since I have owned it, it has been under Ford’s care for almost 2 weeks at 2 different service departments. (I have owned for 90 days.) The car sputters and stops when putting on the gas from a start position. I ended up stalling in a busy intersection on [XXX] All the dash lights come on and then the engine light comes on. Says, take to dealer. They are replacing the fuel pump now and trying that. This car has less than 4900 miles on it. The car they have given me to use is not comparable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSAUSJun 2026Source →
FORD EXPLORER 2026 VISIBILITY/WIPER
low
I have a brand new 2026 Ford Explorer ST. There is a permanent haze on or between the glass windshield that does not come off with any cleaning agent and appears to be between the layer. The service manager at the dealership acknowledges seeing the haze and the reduced clarity but clains Ford will not warranty since it is not on a recall. It is dangerous when the sun glare causes it to "glow" impairing clear visibilty of the road. It is also evident and impairs during rain. The difference is very evident when looking through the windshield versus the side windows at the same object,
NHTSAUSJun 2026Source →
FORD EXPLORER 2026 POWER TRAIN
medium
Description On your vehicle, it may be possible that one or more engine camshaft roller finger followers were not properly installed at the time of engine assembly. Safety Risk An improperly installed engine camshaft roller finger follower may result in engine failure, resulting in a no-start condition or a loss of motive power. A loss of motive power increases the risk of a crash. Your vehicle may also experience engine ticking or tapping noise, and or a low-volume oil leak due to this condition. Remedy A remedy is not yet available. Ford Motor Company is working to provide parts for this repair. When the remedy becomes available, Ford Motor Company will notify you via mail to schedule a service appointment with your dealer for repairs to be completed free of charge. The remedy is anticipated to be available 4TH quarter of 2026. Next Steps Contact your dealer for more information to schedule the free service.
NHTSAUSMay 2026Source →
FORD EXPLORER 2026 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
high
At approximately 1,700 miles, my brand-new 2026 Ford Explorer ST (3.0L EcoBoost) suffered a sudden, catastrophic engine failure while driving, causing an immediate and dangerous loss of motive power. Prior to the failure, the engine experienced severe misfires. Following manufacturer Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) guidance regarding EcoBoost engine misfires, a step-colder spark plug heat range (NGK LTR7IX-11) was utilized to remedy pre-ignition. Ford Motor Company has denied warranty coverage for this catastrophic powertrain failure, falsely claiming the TSB-compliant heat-range plugs caused the destruction. The sudden loss of engine power poses an immediate safety hazard on public roads. I request an investigation into 2025-2026 Ford 3.0L EcoBoost spark plug issues, pre-ignition failures, and unfair warranty denials leaving dangerous vehicles unresolved."
NHTSAUSApr 2026Source →
FORD EXPLORER 2026 ENGINE
high
While driving my new Ford explorer, with 638 miles on it, on the highway I heard a loud pop, and lost power steering. I was barely able to pull the vehicle over to the shoulder to get off the highway. If I would have been on an interstate or a busier highway it could have been very dangerous. I believe that this has put me in danger having to maneuver the vehicle to the side of the highway and sit there while waiting for a tow truck. The Vehicle was towed to the dealership where we bought it. the service manager told us that the engine had blown, it was a catastrophic failure. There were holes in the oil pan as well as through the top part of the engine from it exploding. I believe that we are lucky that the engine wasn't hot enough to start a fire, as we were only a few miles from the start of our drive. there were no warning lamps or messages prior to the engine exploding. The vehicle is currently at our dealership in Monroe Wisconsin, Alphorn Ford is the dealership.
NHTSAUSApr 2026Source →
product.discussion0 product.comments
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product.status_history
status.certifiedstatus.safe19 Jun 2026
Lemon Score: 89. 11 data points. v3 scoring.
status.uncertainstatus.certified31 May 2026
Lemon Score: 92. 8 data points. v3 scoring.
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