
Time to break out those detective hats for the Ford Explorer. We are investigating this popular SUV for transmission issues. The Ford Explorer isn’t the most reliable SUV of the bunch, but is the transmission to blame?
Does the Ford Explorer have transmission problems?
Why Ford Explorer Transmission Problems Are In The Top 10 Most Common Problems For This SUV It’s not nearly as bad as it used to be. According to car complaintsEarlier Explorer models used to have problems with the transmission.
Some of the Explorers involved are from 2002, 2004, and 2006. So, if you have such an old Explorer, you probably already faced the issue. However, the most common 2016 Ford Explorer complaint is about transmission failure.
There are replays of hard shifting, sudden loss of power, unintentional acceleration, jolting, and grinding. Transmissions started to fail between 16,000 and 95,000 miles, casting a pretty wide net.
But there are no recalls or investigations into streaming issues. Also, the Explorer was redesigned in 2020. That’s when it got a new smooth shift 10-speed automatic transmission.
Since 2016, there have been fewer reports of transmission problems. The 2020 model has seven complaints, the 2021 model has three reports, and the 2022 has no transmission issues listed. This indicates that the problem may have been corrected.
What are the most common Explorer problems?
The biggest Ford Explorer problems are reported for models produced between 2000 and 2010. The sixth generation Explorer or models produced after 2020 have a much lower rate of problems and complaints.
However, some feel that the last generation of Explorer was rushed. He had a rocky start, with 14 retirements. But those issues should have been fixed for free. The 2021 model only has five recalls and the 2022 model has four.
Some of the recalls about the underbody and ineffective parking brakes are concerning, but Ford has addressed these issues.
The most common problem with the 2021 Explorer includes powertrain issues. There are 10 reports of slipped gears, the vehicle rolling while parked, and sudden loss of power.
The 2022 Explorer has five complaints so far. The most common problem includes problems with the front camera sensor. But a recall fixed this malfunction.
Is it worth buying the Explorer?

Yes, the Ford Explorer is an excellent three-row SUV to consider. Ford Explorer transmission problems are a thing of the past. While the Explorer gets a bad rap, it’s getting better.
Owners love how the Explorer drives and handles. It is rated as a comfortable and spacious family option. It has a smooth ride and wind noise is kept at bay. Plus, it scores highly for being attractive inside and out.
Various different embellishments are available here to meet various needs. The Explorer Timberline is geared for off-road adventures, the King Ranch trim adds plush amenities, and the ST is incredibly athletic.
Explorer’s biggest problem seems to be its value. For its price, it could have better interior materials and more standard features. Don’t let your troubled past keep you from enjoying a newer model.
RELATED: 3 Reasons To Buy The Ford Explorer Over The Toyota Highlander