Free used car buyer guide / Fifth generation / D4 platform / 2011-2019
Ford Explorer common problems and best years
By BYBA Research - how we score cars
Updated 2026-06-12
BYBA Buy Score
5.6/10
2 walk-away risks, 4 serious faults, 2 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: internal v6 water-pump failure. Score methodology.
The 2011-2019 Explorer is a roomy family SUV that can work well, but it is one of the used Fords where drivetrain layout matters more than mileage. The expensive traps are internal water-pump failure on transverse V6 engines, AWD PTU overheating and seizure, exhaust/CO odor through the rear body, rear toe-link recalls, electric power-steering failure on early cars, and A-pillar/roof-rail trim that can detach or leak. The safest buy is a 2017-2019 naturally aspirated 3.5 FWD with toe-link/trim recalls closed and cooling-system proof, or a later AWD only if the PTU has been serviced and stays quiet. Current owners should treat coolant loss, exhaust odor under acceleration and rear tire inner-edge wear as urgent Explorer-specific warnings.
Faults covered
8
Highest risk
Internal V6 water-pump
Best years
2017-2019
Best buys
- 2017-2019 3.5 V6 FWD with dry coolant weep area, closed toe-link recall and no exhaust odor.
- 2016-2019 2.3 EcoBoost if engine-block-heater recall does not apply and transmission shifts cleanly.
- Police Interceptor Utility only after idle hours, carbon-monoxide repair history and rear suspension alignment are verified.
Inspect hard
- 2011-2015 V6 AWD: water pump, PTU, steering recall and exhaust odor all need proof.
- Sport/Platinum 3.5 EcoBoost: turbo heat, PTU load and cooling-system history matter.
- Any 2016-2019: roof-rail/A-pillar trim recall and water intrusion around sunroof/headliner.
Avoid
- Coolant disappearing on a 3.5/3.7 V6, especially with milky oil or timing cover seepage.
- AWD PTU whining, burnt gear-oil smell or brown paste around the vent.
- Exhaust smell in cabin under hard acceleration after Ford's prior repair attempts.
Next checks
Before you contact the seller
Check the car's history first. Then bring the right tools if it still looks worth viewing.
Primary next step
Check history, title, and recall status
The faults above matter more if the car also has accident history, finance flags, missing service records, or open safety recalls.
Viewing kit
Bring the right tools
Four cheap tools catch most of the faults on this page at a Ford Explorer viewing.
Printable workflow
Take the inspection pack
The PDF is the ordered checklist for the viewing: documents, walk-around, test drive, and scan.
Open PDF optionSome links here are partner links. If you buy through one, BYBA earns a commission. The price you pay does not change. How we make money.
Engines and trims
Which Ford Explorer should you buy?
On most used cars, the engine and trim choice changes the risk more than the mileage does. Narrow this down before you start viewing cars.
3.5L Ti-VCT V6
2011-2019
GOOD ONLY WITH WATER-PUMP PROOF
This is the common Explorer engine and it drives the SUV well. Its internal chain-driven water pump is the ownership risk: coolant can leak into the crankcase or timing area, turning a pump job into engine loss. Buy the engine on coolant history, oil condition and evidence of pump/timing work.
3.5L EcoBoost V6
2013-2019 Sport/Platinum
FAST, BUT HARDER ON PTU AND COOLING
The twin-turbo Explorer is quick and desirable, but it puts more heat and torque into an already marginal AWD PTU package. A clean Sport is enjoyable; a neglected one combines turbo, PTU and water-pump risk in one expensive car.
2.0L EcoBoost I4
2012-2015 FWD
OK FOR LIGHT USE
The early four-cylinder avoids the V6 internal water-pump story and AWD PTU load, but it is working hard in a heavy SUV and is not the towing or mountain-road choice. Inspect turbo boost, cooling and transmission behavior.
2.3L EcoBoost I4
2016-2019
SENSIBLE LATER PICK
The 2.3 replaced the earlier 2.0 and is a reasonable compromise for buyers who want to avoid V6 water-pump exposure. Check engine-block-heater recall coverage on 2016 builds and do not buy one with coolant or underboost history.
Year notes
Year-by-year buyer advice
Use this to narrow the search before you spend time travelling to view a car.
2011
Fifth-generation unibody Explorer launched with 3.5 V6 and electric power steering. Early cars later became known for steering-assist complaints, exhaust odor and toe-link recall exposure.
Buyer: Buy only with steering recall/service proof and a careful V6 coolant inspection. A cheap 2011 with warning lights is rarely cheap after repairs.
Owner: Keep steering and rear suspension recall records. Start monitoring coolant loss before mileage climbs further.
2012
2.0 EcoBoost FWD availability expanded, while core 3.5 V6 models continued.
Buyer: The 2.0 avoids V6 pump risk but feels strained. For V6 cars, cooling and steering checks stay central.
Owner: If you have AWD, service the PTU even if Ford's original schedule treated it lightly.
2013
Sport model with 3.5 EcoBoost arrived, adding performance and heat load.
Buyer: A Sport needs better records than a base XLT. PTU, turbos and cooling system must all be quiet and dry.
Owner: Shorten PTU fluid intervals. Burnt smell near the transfer unit is not normal.
2014
Continued D4 production with ongoing exhaust-odor and rear suspension scrutiny.
Buyer: Hard acceleration with HVAC on should not pull exhaust smell into the cabin. Test it before negotiating.
Owner: Document any exhaust odor with dates and conditions; intermittent complaints are easy to dismiss.
2015
Last pre-facelift year, still within major toe-link recall populations and V6 pump exposure.
Buyer: Check rear alignment and tire wear carefully. Inner-edge wear can mean toe-link or alignment trouble after recall work.
Owner: After rear suspension work, get an alignment printout and keep it.
2016
Facelifted Explorer introduced updated styling, 2.3 EcoBoost, and new trim walk. Some 2.3 vehicles had engine-block-heater recall exposure.
Buyer: This is the first year where a 2.3 makes sense, but do not ignore trim/roof-rail recalls and rear suspension work.
Owner: If equipped with a block heater, verify recall status before winter use.
2017
Mature facelift production; toe-link recall coverage still relevant for many vehicles.
Buyer: A 2017 FWD 3.5 with cooling proof is one of the cleaner choices. AWD adds PTU checks.
Owner: Keep rear tire wear even. Toe issues destroy tires quickly on this chassis.
2018
Continued facelift production; later complaints and recalls highlighted A-pillar/roof-rail trim detachment and water intrusion.
Buyer: Inspect roof rails, windshield trim and headliner staining. A tidy exterior trim repair matters at highway speed.
Owner: Do not tape loose trim and forget it. Flying trim is a safety issue and can let water into the roof area.
2019
Final D4 model year before the rear-drive 2020 redesign.
Buyer: Best year for age, but not immune to water pump, PTU, toe-link or trim issues. Buy the records, not the year badge.
Owner: This is the moment to refresh coolant, PTU fluid and rear suspension inspection before the car ages into bigger bills.
Common problems
Faults to check before buying
What fails, what it looks like, what it costs, and the quick checks you can do at the viewing - ranked by how badly each one can hurt you.
Fault 1
Internal V6 water-pump failure
Affects
2011-2019 3.5 V6 and 3.5 EcoBoost; related 3.7 Police Interceptor Utility.
Symptoms
Coolant loss, overheating, timing-cover seep, coolant smell, milky oil, chain rattle, engine replacement quote.
Typical repair cost
EUR 1,800-3,500 pump/timing service; EUR 5,500-9,000+ engine replacement.
Codes / scan clues
Overheat and misfire codes may appear late; many failures start without a useful DTC.
Root cause: Chain-driven internal pump can leak into the timing case or crankcase when seals/bearings fail.
Quick check
- Inspect coolant level cold and look for recent top-up evidence.
- Check oil cap and dipstick for coolant contamination.
- Look and smell around timing cover.
- Ask for pump/timing receipts on high-mile cars.
Buyer note
Coolant loss on a V6 Explorer is not a small bargaining chip. Without proof, price it as a major engine-risk car.
Owner note
Stop driving if coolant and oil mix. Continuing to run it is how a pump job becomes an engine replacement.
Fault 2
AWD PTU overheating, leaks and seizure
Affects
2011-2019 AWD Explorer, worst on Sport/Police/high-heat use.
Symptoms
Whine, grinding, burnt gear-oil smell, brown fluid paste near vent, AWD warning, no drive in severe cases.
Typical repair cost
EUR 250-500 fluid service if healthy; EUR 1,500-3,500 PTU replacement.
Codes / scan clues
AWD/PTU temperature and driveline codes vary.
Root cause: The compact power transfer unit runs hot and was often under-serviced; fluid cooks and bearings/gears fail.
Quick check
- Inspect PTU for leaks and vent residue.
- Listen under load and on decel.
- Ask for PTU fluid service records.
- Reject burnt smell or grinding.
Buyer note
AWD adds real Explorer value only if the PTU is healthy. A noisy PTU is not a tire noise to sort later.
Owner note
Service PTU fluid proactively. Waiting for whine means metal is already circulating.
Fault 3
Exhaust odor and carbon-monoxide intrusion concern
Affects
2011-2017 especially, with complaints across 2011-2019 and Police Interceptor use.
Symptoms
Exhaust smell in cabin under hard acceleration, headache complaints, tailgate/rear body sealing repairs, Ford CO customer satisfaction records.
Typical repair cost
EUR 0 if Ford program applies; EUR 300-1,500 sealing/exhaust repair; more after collision damage.
Codes / scan clues
Usually none.
Root cause: NHTSA investigated exhaust odor/CO complaints; Ford service actions involved rear body sealing, liftgate drains, HVAC calibration and exhaust changes on some vehicles.
Quick check
- Accelerate hard with HVAC in normal mode and smell for fumes.
- Inspect rear hatch seals, drains and body plugs.
- Check for Police Interceptor upfit holes or rear collision repair.
- Use a CO meter if buying an ex-police unit.
Buyer note
Any cabin exhaust smell is a rejection unless the cause is found and repaired before sale.
Owner note
Do not drive children in a car that smells of exhaust. Document conditions and push for a proper sealing/exhaust inspection.
Fault 4
Rear toe-link fracture and alignment fallout
Affects
2011-2019 Explorer recall populations, with 2011-2017 and later expansions.
Symptoms
Rear clunk, unstable rear steer, inner rear tire wear, recall record, post-recall alignment problems.
Typical repair cost
EUR 0 under recall; EUR 400-1,200 arms/tires/alignment outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
Usually none.
Root cause: Ford recall data identifies rear suspension toe links that may fracture due to stress; later complaints also describe alignment/tire wear after repairs.
Quick check
- VIN-check all toe-link recalls.
- Inspect rear tires for inner-edge wear.
- Ask for alignment printout after recall work.
- Check rear suspension bushings and links on lift.
Buyer note
A completed toe-link recall without alignment proof is only half the story. Tire wear tells you whether the rear geometry is right.
Owner note
After toe-link work, insist on alignment specs. Bad rear toe can destroy tires quickly.
Fault 5
Electric power steering assist failure
Affects
Mostly 2011-2013/2014 early Explorer, VIN-specific recall/service action.
Symptoms
Steering assist fault, heavy steering, sudden loss of assist, warning chime, recall/service history.
Typical repair cost
EUR 0 if covered; EUR 1,000-2,500 rack/control repair.
Codes / scan clues
PSC/EPAS faults vary by module scan.
Root cause: Early fifth-gen Explorers had enough electric power-steering failure reports for NHTSA investigation and Ford recall/service action.
Quick check
- VIN-check steering recalls.
- Turn lock-to-lock at idle and during parking.
- Scan EPAS module.
- Reject any steering assist warning.
Buyer note
Heavy steering on a big crossover is a safety issue, not character. Early cars need proof this has been handled.
Owner note
If steering assist warnings appear, do not keep driving until failure becomes repeatable.
Fault 6
A-pillar and roof-rail trim detachment
Affects
2016-2019 roof-rail recall; broader 2011-2019 trim complaints.
Symptoms
Loose A-pillar moulding, roof rail cover lifting, wind noise, trim flying off at highway speed, water intrusion.
Typical repair cost
EUR 0 under recall; EUR 200-900 trim/seal repair outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
None unless water damages electronics.
Root cause: Ford recall data identifies retention pins that can loosen and allow roof rail covers to detach; owners also report A-pillar moulding failures.
Quick check
- Pull gently on roof rail covers and inspect clips.
- Check A-pillar trim for gaps or tape.
- Look at headliner and sunroof area for water stains.
- Run recall status for 2016-2019.
Buyer note
Loose trim is not just cosmetic on this SUV. It can detach at speed and may point to water entry.
Owner note
Repair loose trim promptly and document recall completion; highway loss can damage other vehicles.
Fault 7
6F50/6F55 automatic harsh shifts and torque-converter complaints
Affects
2011-2019 Explorer, especially high-mile and police/tow use.
Symptoms
Harsh 2-3/3-4 shifts, flare, torque-converter shudder, delayed engagement, fluid dark/burnt.
Typical repair cost
EUR 250-600 service/adaptation; EUR 1,200-2,500 valve-body/torque converter; EUR 4,000-7,000 rebuild.
Codes / scan clues
Ratio, solenoid and converter clutch codes vary.
Root cause: Heat, towing, old fluid and calibration/adaptive issues wear the 6-speed automatic and converter.
Quick check
- Cold shift P-R-D and road test through every gear.
- Check fluid condition if serviceable.
- Scan TCM for ratio/converter history.
- Test uphill under light throttle for shudder.
Buyer note
A transmission that only shifts smoothly after warming up is already telling you something. Do not buy it as a fluid-change gamble.
Owner note
Service fluid earlier on AWD, Sport and towing use. Waiting for shudder limits repair choices.
Fault 8
Water intrusion through roof, windshield or rear body
Affects
2011-2019, often tied to trim, sunroof drains or prior body repair.
Symptoms
Wet headliner, damp cargo area, sunroof motor faults, musty smell, electrical glitches after rain.
Typical repair cost
EUR 150-500 drain/seal service; EUR 800-2,500 if modules/interior are damaged.
Codes / scan clues
Body module, sunroof and low-voltage codes if water reaches wiring.
Root cause: Roof rail/A-pillar trim issues, sunroof drains and rear body seals can admit water; police/upfit holes add risk on fleet vehicles.
Quick check
- Inspect headliner corners and spare-wheel/cargo area.
- Pour-test only if seller agrees.
- Check sunroof operation and drains.
- Smell carpets after rain.
Buyer note
Water in an Explorer often travels before it shows. A musty smell can mean hidden wiring and module damage.
Owner note
Dry the car properly after a leak. Leaving wet padding in place invites corrosion and mold.
Inspection pack
Printable checklist for the viewing
The free page helps you decide whether the car is worth seeing. The paid guide is the ordered, printable checklist you use at the car.
Documents
- VIN recall printout for steering, toe-link, roof rail, seats and block heater where applicable.
- Water pump/timing receipts for V6 cars over 100k miles.
- PTU fluid service history on AWD.
- Any Ford CO/exhaust odor repair record.
Walk around
- Inspect roof rails, A-pillar trim and windshield seals.
- Check rear tire inner-edge wear and rear suspension links.
- Look under AWD cars for PTU leaks.
- Check coolant level before engine is warmed.
In the car
- Smell for dampness and exhaust.
- Check steering assist warning and turn lock-to-lock.
- Test sunroof, camera, HVAC recirculation and all warning lights.
- Read idle hours on fleet/police units if available.
Test drive
- Hard acceleration with HVAC on to test exhaust odor.
- Listen for PTU whine under load and decel.
- Check transmission shifts cold and hot.
- Brake and steer over uneven road for rear clunks.
Scan tool
- Full PCM/TCM/EPAS/ABS/body scan.
- Check misfire/overheat history.
- Look for steering assist, AWD/PTU and transmission faults.
- For ex-police cars, scan every body/upfit-related module.
Bottom line
Buy: The cleanest Explorer in this range is a later FWD 3.5 or 2.3 with closed recalls, no exhaust smell, dry body and proof the cooling system has been watched. AWD Sport models are worth considering only with PTU and cooling records.
Avoid: Avoid coolant loss on any V6, PTU whine, cabin exhaust odor, unresolved steering warnings, loose roof/A-pillar trim, or rear suspension work without alignment proof.
Quick answers
Ford Explorer buyer questions
The short versions of what this page answers in full.
What are the most common Ford Explorer 2011-2019 problems?
The highest-impact documented faults are: Internal V6 water-pump failure; AWD PTU overheating, leaks and seizure; Exhaust odor and carbon-monoxide intrusion concern. This guide covers 8 faults in total, each with symptoms, typical repair costs, and checks you can do at a viewing.
Which Ford Explorer years are the best to buy?
2017-2019 stand out in this generation. The cleanest Explorer in this range is a later FWD 3.5 or 2.3 with closed recalls, no exhaust smell, dry body and proof the cooling system has been watched. AWD Sport models are worth considering only with PTU and cooling records.
Which Ford Explorer should I avoid?
Avoid coolant loss on any V6, PTU whine, cabin exhaust odor, unresolved steering warnings, loose roof/A-pillar trim, or rear suspension work without alignment proof.
Is the Ford Explorer 2011-2019 a reliable used buy?
BYBA scores it 5.6/10 (cautious buy). 2 walk-away risks, 4 serious faults, 2 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: internal v6 water-pump failure.
Get updates when this guide changes
Recalls get added, repair costs shift, and new fault patterns show up in the data. Leave an email and we'll tell you when the Ford Explorer guide gets a meaningful revision. Nothing else, no selling your address.
Research basis
- NHTSA recalls API, 2016 Explorer
- NHTSA complaints API, 2018 Explorer
- NHTSA PE16-008 Explorer exhaust odor
- Ford CO dealer bulletin
- CarComplaints 2011 Explorer
- CarComplaints Explorer cooling system
- Consumer Reports 2019 Explorer reliability
- FordProblems fifth-generation Explorer
- Reddit mechanic water-pump rebuild discussion
- Motor & Wheels Explorer common issues
- FordExplorer subreddit PTU owner discussion
- Ford dealer Q&A / NHTSA MC-10149785
- NHTSA recall lookup
- NHTSA complaints API, 2011 Explorer
- CarProblemZoo 2011 Explorer complaint statistics
- FordFaults 2019 Explorer issue list
- RepairPal Ford Explorer repair data