2023 Ford Explorer

Price Range: $18,800 - $44,998

Ford Explorer King Ranch 4dr SUV Exterior

Good

The 2023 Ford Explorer has uncommonly good balance and poise for a midsize three-row SUV. It's not the roomiest, but its standard infotainment and safety tech offerings are competitive. Two things hold it back: subpar materials quality and high pricing.

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Appraise My 2023 Ford Explorer

Pros

Strong engines for quick acceleration
Rear-wheel-drive platform improves handling and towing
Impressive collection of safety features
Roomy cargo area

Cons

Hybrid is modestly more fuel-efficient and unavailable for most trims
The price can get frighteningly expensive in a hurry
Adults may find the third-row seat to be uncomfortable

What's new

Revised availability of standard and optional equipment
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

Overview

Written by automotive expert Christian Wardlaw

Updated: 10/21/2022

The Ford Explorer is one of the longest-running SUVs on the road. It debuted more than 30 years ago and kick-started an American love affair with sport-utility vehicles that persists to this day. Our editors have praised the current-generation Explorer for its powerful engines, generous cargo space and standard safety features. However, its subpar interior materials don't often match up to its price tag, which can get into luxury SUV territory on higher trim levels.

While we find aspects of the Explorer appealing, the crop of midsize SUVs has grown significantly since the SUV debuted, and it is no longer the class leader it once was. The Kia Telluride and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, have taken the top spots for our recommendations in recent years. Both are more comfortable and feel more premium inside than the Explorer, and each gets a refresh for the 2023 model year. A redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot is rolling out, too, and the lineup includes a new TrailSport version that offers improved off-roading capability.

Rumor had it the 2023 Explorer would get updates, too, but for now the SUV carries on without major changes. When Ford bestows a freshening upon its family hauler, probably for the 2024 model year, the company will likely update the Explorer's styling, interior design and materials, and technology. Look for Ford's next-generation Sync infotainment systems and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assist system at that time.

In the meantime, if you can't wait for the 2024 Explorer, check out what our test team has to say about the current model in our Expert Rating below.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.7

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Ford Explorer on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the Explorer drive? The Explorer is the three-row SUV to get if your priorities include balanced handling and strong acceleration. Unlike a lot of other SUVs in this class, it feels eager and light as you drive around turns. There's a lot of grip too.

The latest Explorer can handle lots of power, and Ford takes full advantage. The sturdy turbocharged four-cylinder base engine easily outpaces the competition. And there's a bonkers turbo V6 in the Explorer ST for those who believe too much is never enough. Both are helped along by a 10-speed transmission. It kicks down faithfully when you need it to, but its shifting is too indecisive in city traffic, when you're just lightly getting on and off the gas.

Comfort

7/10

How comfortable is the Explorer? The Explorer's front seats are nicely shaped and comfortable. But we don't recommend the optional massaging ones — the mechanism behind the massaging can make the seats feel lumpy when it's off. Seat comfort gets progressively less cushiony as you move back to the second and third rows. Our Explorer Limited test vehicle rode smoothly most of the time, but smaller road imperfections were a little more noticeable than in some other SUVs.

Operating the automatic climate control system can require more manual adjustments than expected; the air vents won't pump out as much air as you want when you lower the temperature, for instance. Another drawback is that the Explorer isn't as quiet as it should be. The sound of the engine isn't well masked, and you can hear gusty wind noises at even moderate highway speeds.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? Things look decent from the driver's perspective. Front seat space is abundant, and the driving position is nicely adjustable. It's generally easy to see out thanks to adequate glass area and good-size mirrors.

But middle- and rear-seat passengers aren't as well taken care of. Middle-row knee room and legroom are not up to the standard set by others in the class, and the third row is unlikely to impress taller-than-average adults. Rear door access can be clumsy if the doors can't be opened past the first detent because space is tight between the large door map pockets and the prominent rear wheel arches. The third-row power-folding mechanism is nice, but raising the row for passengers must be done from the hatch area.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? The Explorer comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, the Sync infotainment system, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. The Explorer is well equipped with driving safety aids. All Explorers come standard with automated emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, cross-traffic and blind-spot warning alerts, and automatic high beams, and additional features are either optional or standard depending on the trim. These systems work well. However, the alerts sound overly similar, and the lane centering system may falsely accuse you of taking your hands off the wheel.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The Explorer's cargo hold is generous. With the third-row seats up, it's a bit tighter than in some other SUVs, but you can still fit three or four rolling suitcases back there. There's a good amount of small-item storage up front for your odds and ends, and child seats are easy to install in the middle row.

The Explorer's rear-wheel-drive architecture makes it especially well suited to towing, even if the max tow rating isn't particularly distinctive. The trailer tow package comes with an easily accessed receiver hitch, four- and seven-pin wiring, full support for an add-on electric trailer brake controller, a tow-haul transmission mode, and an enhanced blind-spot monitoring system that covers the length of the trailer.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? On paper, the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine has slightly better EPA fuel economy estimates than its closest competition. The rear-wheel-drive version gets 24 mpg combined, and the all-wheel-drive model gets 23 mpg combined. Depending on what you compare it to, that's generally 1 or 2 mpg better.

But we could not match these figures in practice, possibly because this turbocharged engine feels overeager. Our test average was 21.1 mpg, and our driving included a long freeway stretch. This number lined up more or less exactly with lower-rated competitors that we drove in the same way.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Explorer a good value? You don't have to look very far or very hard to see plasticky interior plastics, unsightly gaps and mediocre design details. These would be understandable if this vehicle was a bargain, but it's not. You'd have to be the sort who puts a high premium indeed on mountain road agility and powertrain performance to offset these drawbacks. On paper at least, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost will reward you with better fuel economy. But we found it hard to replicate the EPA estimates in the real world, and in our tests the Explorer came out no better than its rivals.

Wildcard

8/10

You'll still peg the latest model as an Explorer, and this latest generation has a strong stance and sleek proportions that suggest motion. And this is no hollow promise because it offers a much better driving experience than any previous Explorer — or the majority of its competition. It's fast, it has poise and balance, and it likes to be hustled through corners. This Ford is the one to get if your daily drive includes mountain roads or interesting corners.

For sale near Columbus, OH

7,449 listings

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Price Drop
2023 Ford Explorer
XLT 4dr SUV
$19,948
great price
$5,251 below market
- 64,538 miles
- 6 Seats, 21 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- 2 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Third-row seating
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
Oxford White 2023 Ford Explorer XLT RWD 10-Speed Automatic 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 ***Clean AutoCheck***, LEATHER, XLT.Recent Arrival! 21/28 City/Highway ...
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
1FMSK7DH7PGA56851
Stock:
PGA56851
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
10-07-2026
Price Drop
2023 Ford Explorer
Timberline 4dr SUV
$29,447
great price
$5,307 below market
- 26,299 miles
- 6 Seats, 19 City / 22 Hwy MPG
- 6 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Third-row seating
Close
Located in Columbus, OH
The 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline delivers premium capability and comfort for those seeking adventure without compromise. With a 2.3L EcoBoost engine ...
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (19 City/22 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
1FMSK8JH9PGC06727
Stock:
C06727C06
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
08-11-2026

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2023 Ford Explorer trim level differences

The Ford Explorer is available in multiple trim levels. Expect to find a Base model plus Explorers with XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch and Platinum trim designations. Lower-priced Explorers have a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque), while higher-priced models include a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine (400 hp, 415 lb-ft). A 318-hp hybrid drivetrain employing a 3.3-liter V6 is available on selected Explorers. All versions of the SUV use a 10-speed automatic transmission, and most offer standard rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is an option across the board, except for the Timberline, which has it as standard equipment. Feature highlights include: Compare the 2023 Ford Explorer trim levels in-depth.

Which Explorer trim does Edmunds recommend?

There are many appealing Explorers available, but we think the XLT is your best bet for all-around value and customization. You can stick with the standard package of equipment, or you can upgrade the SUV's appearance, convenience features, and safety tech as your budget allows.

Ford Explorer Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.3

39 reviews

5(72%)

4(13%)

3(2%)

2(3%)

1(10%)

See all 39 reviews of the Ford Explorer

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2023 Ford Explorer videos

Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride vs. Hyundai Palisade -- 2020 Midsize SUV Comparison Test

NOTE: This video is about the 2020 Ford Explorer, but since the 2023 Ford Explorer is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

We think the Kia Telluride is the best midsize SUV on sale today, but the Ford Explorer and the Hyundai Palisade would like to say otherwise. We brought the three of them together and put them through our expert and exhaustive rating process and then sat down to talk it out. Will the Telluride remain the leader, or will the stylish Palisade or all-new Explorer take the top…

2023 Explorer Features & Specs

Type:

SUV

Trim:

Base

Est. Market Value	$26,941
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$197/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Reliability

The 2023 Ford Explorer has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 15 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average

#23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$556/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

1.07x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

16.8%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

Recalls

15 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 26V451000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 26S52
Number of vehicles affected:: 387911
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
Defect Consequence:: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.

Recall Number:: 26V159000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 26C18
Manufactured from:: 2019-05-09 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 561
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
Defect Consequence:: A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.

Recall Number:: 26V123000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 26C11
Number of vehicles affected:: 889950
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: The remedy is currently under development. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed April 17, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated second quarter of 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.

Recall Number:: 25V685000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25SA4
Manufactured from:: 2021-05-10 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 59006
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Lincoln MKC, 2016-2023 Explorer, 2019-2020 Fusion, 2019-2024 Ranger, 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair, Escape, 2021-2024 Bronco, Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
Defect Consequence:: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed October 24, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated February 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

Recall Number:: 25V455000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S75
Manufactured from:: 2021-07-01 to 2022-07-31
Number of vehicles affected:: 850318
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving.
Defect Consequence:: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: The remedy is under development. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 14, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S75.

Recall Number:: 25V442000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S72
Manufactured from:: 2019-04-25 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 200061
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Defect Consequence:: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.

Recall Number:: 25V393000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S67
Number of vehicles affected:: 304662
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Defect Consequence:: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.

Recall Number:: 25V159000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S27
Number of vehicles affected:: 49399
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 23V-342. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the Image Processing Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S27.

Recall Number:: 24V852000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24C39
Manufactured from:: 2019-07-29 to 2024-09-13
Number of vehicles affected:: 27678
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

Recall Number:: 24V091000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24S04
Manufactured from:: 2023-12-19 to 2023-12-19
Number of vehicles affected:: 121
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles. The right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut may be loose or missing.
Defect Consequence:: A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can cause improper tire alignment, resulting in a steering pull or require increased steering effort. Additionally, the brake hose may contact the tire and become damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak and a loss of braking ability. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the fasteners, and tighten or install them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 08, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S04.

Recall Number:: 23V686000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23C31
Number of vehicles affected:: 2866
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles equipped with a standard rearview camera. Due to a manufacturing error in the wire harness, the rearview camera may display a blue image on the SYNC screen when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the rearview camera wire harness and repair any loose splices, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C31.

Recall Number:: 23V597000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23S50
Number of vehicles affected:: 10
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Explorer vehicles equipped with 2.3L GTDI engines. The turbocharger oil supply line may be damaged, which can result in an oil leak inside the engine compartment.
Defect Consequence:: An oil leak in the presence of an ignition source such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire. In addition, the loss of oil can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as soon as possible if they see an oil pressure warning light or smoke coming from the engine compartment. Dealers will replace the turbo oil supply line assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S50.

Recall Number:: 23V342000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23S23
Manufactured from:: 2019-01-07 to 2022-12-15
Number of vehicles affected:: 442973
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the 360-degree camera, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on July 10, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in July 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S23. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 23V-022. Vehicles previously repaired under 23V-022 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Recall Number:: 23V070000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23S06
Number of vehicles affected:: 1138
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2023 F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Bronco, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. The transmission may contain a loose bolt which could prevent the transmission from engaging the park gear, although the gear shifter position may indicate that the vehicle has been shifted to "PARK."
Defect Consequence:: The inability to secure the vehicle in the park position can result in a rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transmissions, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S06.

Recall Number:: 23V022000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 23S02
Number of vehicles affected:: 382759
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles equipped with a 360-degree camera. The video output may fail, preventing the rearview camera image from displaying.
Defect Consequence:: Loss of the rearview camera image can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the image processing module (IPMB) software, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 25, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S02. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 21V-735. Vehicles previously repaired under 21V-735 will need to have the new remedy performed.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

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Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse is one of the Ford Explorer's primary rivals, but it's a different kind of family-size crossover SUV. Based on a front-wheel-drive platform, the Traverse is larger inside for people and more accommodating of cargo, but it can't match the Explorer for powertrain diversity or driving dynamics. Ford also offers sport- and off-road-tuned versions of the Explorer, while the Traverse comes in layers of the same thing. But if you need a roomy third-row seat, the Chevy is the way to go.

Compare Ford Explorer & Chevrolet Traverse features

Ford Explorer vs. Hyundai Palisade

Hyundai gives the appealing Palisade several updates for 2023, including updated exterior styling and interior design and enhanced infotainment, safety and convenience technologies. Still on tap are its excellent warranty and cabin design. But the Palisade doesn't offer a hybrid powertrain or a performance-tuned or off-road trim level like the Explorer does.

Compare Ford Explorer & Hyundai Palisade features

Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride

Last year, the Kia Telluride was our top-rated choice across all mainstream-brand SUV segments. For 2023, Kia isn't sitting still, giving the Telluride updated exterior styling and interior detailing, new technology, and off-road-oriented X-Line and X-Pro trim levels. It can even tow up to 5,500 pounds now, which is almost as much as the Explorer. Nothing about the Telly's updates suggests we'll think any less of it, so it remains a formidable foe of the Ford's. Be sure to find what it's like to live with a Kia Telluride in our long-term road test of the SUV.

Compare Ford Explorer & Kia Telluride features

Safety

Our experts like the Explorer models:

Post-Collision Braking: Applies the brakes after a collision to reduce the effects of a secondary collision.
Lane Keeping System: Alerts the driver as the Explorer starts to drift out of its lane. Also applies pressure to the wheel to guide the car back into the lane.
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains the distance between the Explorer and the car in front. Also includes a system that keeps the Explorer centered in the lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	14.7%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Good
Side Impact Test – Original	Good
Side Impact Test – Updated	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good

Research other Explorer years

FAQ

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Explorer both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford Explorer. Learn more

What's new in the 2023 Ford Explorer?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Ford Explorer:

Revised availability of standard and optional equipment
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

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Is the Ford Explorer reliable?

To determine whether the Ford Explorer is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Explorer. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Explorer's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2023 Ford Explorer a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Ford Explorer is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Explorer and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Explorer is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2023 Ford Explorer?

The least-expensive 2023 Ford Explorer is the 2023 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $36,760.

Other versions include:

4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $36,760
XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $38,570
4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $38,760
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $40,570
ST-Line 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $46,005
Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $47,070
ST-Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $48,005
Timberline 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $48,980
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $49,070
ST 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $50,005
ST 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $52,005
Limited Hybrid 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) which starts at $53,005
Platinum Hybrid 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) which starts at $53,820
King Ranch 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,075
Platinum 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,220
Limited Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) which starts at $55,005
Platinum Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) which starts at $55,820
King Ranch 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $56,075
Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $56,220

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What are the different models of Ford Explorer?

If you're interested in the Ford Explorer, the next question is, which Explorer model is right for you? Explorer variants include 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), and XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of Explorer models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$197/mo

$317/mo

Avg. Large SUV

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