2011-2105 Explorers/Reliability with engines?

[AndoAv8R]

My dad is starting consider what he wants to replace his current 2007 Grand Cherokee with.

One of the main vehicles he is considering is a 2011-2015 Explorer, likely cant afford anything with under 60,000 to 70,000 miles.

Ive been doing research for him and Im concerned with 3.5L Duratec/Ecoboost, and having the water pump back behind with the timing chain.

I'm just curious from folks who have/have had them what their experiences were? If you have any major issues what we're cost/costs?

 

[peterk9]

FYI

3.5 NA reliability

Hi guys, was reading a thread on Facebook about issues with both 3.5 engines but I'm more interested in the NA as it's what I have. I bought my 2017 xlt with the 3.5l NA and I came to the forum and ask about the new explorer but never read about engine issues. I sold my 2015 kia optima sxl with...

www.explorerforum.com

enough doom and gloom, lets hear some high mileage, reliable 5th gen. stories.

I am wondering if anyone here has a high mileage 5th gen Ford Explorer and I am wondering if anyone has run into any issues or has any positive feedback? I am really planning to drive mine until it dies so I really want to see what kind of problems I might run into in the future.

www.explorerforum.com

Water pump failure leads to dead engine

I hate being the guy that joins only to have his first post be about needing help, but I’ve been lurking here for the better part of a year and now have a depressing reason to reach out for assistance. This is long, so the summary is 1k miles over warranty, water pump failed without any check...

www.explorerforum.com

Yes, the internal water pump can definitely be a concern. It's a bit of a 'crap-shoot' if you ask me. There are many that haven't had any issues and others that have. If it is really a deal-breaker, you could always take out a Ford ESP Warranty. There is a thread in the 'Stickies' at the beginning of this 'Discussion' forum.

Peter

 

[Red92lx]

FYI

3.5 NA reliability

Hi guys, was reading a thread on Facebook about issues with both 3.5 engines but I'm more interested in the NA as it's what I have. I bought my 2017 xlt with the 3.5l NA and I came to the forum and ask about the new explorer but never read about engine issues. I sold my 2015 kia optima sxl with...

www.explorerforum.com

enough doom and gloom, lets hear some high mileage, reliable 5th gen. stories.

I am wondering if anyone here has a high mileage 5th gen Ford Explorer and I am wondering if anyone has run into any issues or has any positive feedback? I am really planning to drive mine until it dies so I really want to see what kind of problems I might run into in the future.

www.explorerforum.com

Water pump failure leads to dead engine

I hate being the guy that joins only to have his first post be about needing help, but I’ve been lurking here for the better part of a year and now have a depressing reason to reach out for assistance. This is long, so the summary is 1k miles over warranty, water pump failed without any check...

www.explorerforum.com

Yes, the internal water pump can definitely be a concern. It's a bit of a 'crap-shoot' if you ask me. There are many that haven't had any issues and others that have. If it is really a deal-breaker, you could always take out a Ford ESP Warranty. There is a thread in the 'Stickies' at the beginning of this 'Discussion' forum.

Peter

Seems like the 3.5L N/A is great other then the water pump. The ecoboost 3.5 is fun, but like most hot rod type engines you need to pay to play. The turbo 4 is probably working pretty hard to move this large vehicle and I would be wary. Honestly, I love my 3.5l n/a and other then the water pump issue ( my was covered under cpo warranty @87K) it has been a great, reliable suv. I would suggest a powertrain warranty to cover the water pump.