Ford Explorer Years to Avoid

Why 2011 and 2016 made the avoid list

2011 Ford Explorer

AvoidTop issue: steering · 76% of complaints · median 32,000 miles

Owners describe power steering suddenly cutting out or locking up while driving, often after dash warnings like "Power Steering Assist Fault" or "Service AdvanceTrac," and brakes that go soft or lose stopping power. Many report SYNC and camera electronics issues, with repairs that didn't stick.

Full 2011 report ›

2016 Ford Explorer

AvoidTop issue: engine · 26% of complaints · median 13,000 miles

Owners describe the 2016 Explorer suddenly losing acceleration or stalling, often traced to the throttle body, plus exhaust or fuel odors entering the cabin that dealers repeatedly attempted to fix. Others report power steering stiffening or locking up, preceded by warning messages or grinding noises.

Full 2016 report ›

Questions owners ask

Which Ford Explorer years should you avoid?

Counting complaints owners filed with NHTSA in each year's first five years on the road, per vehicle sold, the 2011 and 2016 Explorer drew the most: each more than twice the rate of a typical Explorer year, spread across more than one problem area. The 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2020 also ran above average; use caution with them.

What is the best year for a used Ford Explorer?

The 2009 Explorer drew the fewest complaints for its time on the road and the number sold (0.1× the rate of a typical Explorer year), followed by the 2019 and 2008. Years from 2022 on haven't had five years on the road, so they aren't rated yet.

What is the most common problem with the Ford Explorer?

Across every year, the problem area owners report most is the engine (19% of complaints), followed by the steering (18%) and the powertrain (transmission and drivetrain) (12%). A complaint can name more than one area.

Has the Ford Explorer been recalled?

Yes. NHTSA lists 104 recall campaigns covering Explorer model years 2008 to 2026, the most recent in September 2026. Enter a vehicle's VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to see whether its repairs were done.