Is the Explorer reliable?

[Huntpsu1]

Thanks

I appreciate all the feedback to my initial post. I agree a first model year run always comes with quirks, and I have endured some with prior purchases. What alarmed me were the number of posts about issues I would consider beyond quirks. I did read a good post from a new LTD owner, and it seems his 2012 model isn't experiencing many of the issues.

All in all, i think I will wait for the 2013s, and also wait for a review of a production model MFT.

 

[deerfarm]

As Sgt1411 said it is TSB1-11-11-12

Also the following was posted by blwnsmoke on 11-11-2011 New TSB on auto wipers.
12Tsb 11-11-12. Replaced processor, BT4Z-17D547*B

(thread is on page 9 as of this post)

Thanks to both of you. I'll get mine fixed next time I take it in for service.

 

[FordService]

Hi guys,

I’m available to help by forwarding the details to the Customer Service Manager in your area. If you haven’t already, please send a PM with your contact info, VIN, approximate mileage, and dealer name/state.

...However, after reading this forum for a few months I am really questioning the reliability of this vehicle. I can understand more people are likely to issue complaints than praise on a forum that has Ford reps monitoring (such as Cory), but there are several issues that seem pervasive and would steer me from a purchase...

Huntpsu1,

As you can see from the community replies, many customers love their Explorers. When it comes time to shop for yours, let me know what I can do to help.

BTW, a big “thanks” to all those who took the time to reply.

...Regarding everything else, it seems to me like Ford is putting a pretty high priority on fixing the problems the Ex is having. I can't think of any common problems on this board that do not have a TSB already. If you're concerned, you might want to wait for the 2013 model year, which will start hitting dealers in March (according to Cory)...

Thanks for the shout-out, maerlim.

...I have the occasional minor MFT problem (V2.4) that clears up on its own. Streaky window problem still exists but it isn't as bad as it was. I still get the occasional 'courtesy' wipe but haven't bothered to take it in to have it fixed under the existing TSB...

peterk9,

When you have a chance to take it in to the dealer, keep in mind you can call the Ford of Canada Customer Relationship Center @ 1-800-565-3673 for more help.

Cory

 

[FordService]

...However, after reading this forum for a few months I am really questioning the reliability of this vehicle. I can understand more people are likely to issue complaints than praise on a forum that has Ford reps monitoring (such as Cory), but there are several issues that seem pervasive and would steer me from a purchase...

Huntpsu1,

As you can see from the community replies, many customers love their Explorers. When it comes time to shop for yours, let me know what I can do to help.

...The only issues I have are 1) with the A pillar noise which will be fixed soon once I take it in for its first oil change and 2) MFT but primarily just my Microsoft Zune skipping about 30 seconds of a song once or twice a day...

...My dealer fixed my streaky windows (at least in the front) and the A-Pillar rattle....now I'm just waiting on the MFT update, and I'll have everything fixed.

...the only problem I can really complain about is the bluetooth audio...

...All the extra stuff that you would actually buy the Explorer for is the major issue such as the MFT not working...

Jackal01, JustB_Rad, thinkthis, & 1995E,

Have you checked with Rebecca (FordIVTteam) yet on your MFT concern? She’s really great at troubleshooting!

...I still get the occasional 'courtesy' wipe but haven't bothered to take it in to have it fixed under the existing TSB. Other than that, I have not experienced any of the other problems.

peterk9,

I’m really glad you’re enjoying your Explorer! Keep us in the loop.

...If you're concerned, you might want to wait for the 2013 model year, which will start hitting dealers in March (according to Cory)...

Thanks for re-posting that here, maerlim.

...I'll get mine fixed next time I take it in for service.

deerfarm,

I’m confident your dealer will take care of you. Drop me a line via PM if you need any help.

Cory

 

[peterk9]

Thanks to both of you. I'll get mine fixed next time I take it in for service.

I have an appointment to take mine in this Friday for TSB 11-11-12. The part has been ordered.

 

[orlando711]

Unhappy with my Explorer

Hello - Just wanted to let you know that I've had many problem with my 2011 Explorer. . . it's currently in the shop waiting for a part that is heavily backordered. We had problems since we first got it, first it was the overheating issue, which was fixed. But it was heartbreaking to see my brand new truck being taken away on a flatbed. Now we are dealing with a multitude of issues, such as windshield rattle, brake noises/grinding, MFT issues, bottom front molding coming off, something that feels like a transmission slip, amongst other things. I originally loved my explorer, but now I don't feel safe in it and cannot recommend one to anybody.

 

[FordMomof3]

I'm afraid I have to take issue with the level of dealer service provided by Ford. I have owned 15 fords in my life and 4 Toyotas/Lexus. I have yet to experience a Ford service department that gives a rip about whether I am a satisfied customer. The first thing out of their mouth is "if we can't see or hear it, then we can't fix it". My local Toyota dealer is totally different. When I have had a rattle, they work on it even if they don't hear it. They do something and then say that if that didn't fix it, let them know. One time the service advisor that you check in with actually took action immedialty so that I didn't even have to leave the truck. To no surprise the Lexus dealer is just as good. Maybe it is just these two dealerships that are great, but it certainly impresses me!

I will say - I've been in a Ford family for my whole life. My husband and I *very briefly* went to Saturn and quickly came back when we bought a 1999 Windstar. We very soon figured out what customer service meant when we were dealing with service departments. I know vehicles well enough to know how to tell someone what I'm hearing. We found a great one - it shut down. We found horrid ones - they shut down. (during that whole shut down time frame - they were dropping like flies here in the Detroit area). Now - there are several very close we refuse to deal with due to horrid customer service and we drive 1/2 hour to get to the one we'll be buying my new EX from within the next month. So keep looking. Keep trying and just change dealers until you find the service dept that does it right. You don't have to take your vehicle to the place you bought it. I am new to this forum (now that the light is at the end of my tunnel ) but I had to comment when I saw this. Good luck to you!

 

[peterk9]

Hello - Just wanted to let you know that I've had many problem with my 2011 Explorer. . . it's currently in the shop waiting for a part that is heavily backordered. We had problems since we first got it, first it was the overheating issue, which was fixed. But it was heartbreaking to see my brand new truck being taken away on a flatbed. Now we are dealing with a multitude of issues, such as windshield rattle, brake noises/grinding, MFT issues, bottom front molding coming off, something that feels like a transmission slip, amongst other things. I originally loved my explorer, but now I don't feel safe in it and cannot recommend one to anybody.

It is unfortunate that you have had problems with your EXplorer. But keep in mind that it is not unusual for first year production models to run into a few problems. I believe there is a TSB on the brakes, depending on what your problem is. The front molding is rather low so the driver has to be cautious when approaching raised objects. I have scrapped mine a few times but it has never come off. The MFT problems will hopefully be addressed and cleaned up with the new release scheduled for Q1.
Mine was built in late February and I'm still on V1.4 for the MFT. I am very happy with it and would not hesitate to recommend it. Love it more everytime I drive it.

 

[peterk9]

I will say - I've been in a Ford family for my whole life. My husband and I *very briefly* went to Saturn and quickly came back when we bought a 1999 Windstar. We very soon figured out what customer service meant when we were dealing with service departments. I know vehicles well enough to know how to tell someone what I'm hearing. We found a great one - it shut down. We found horrid ones - they shut down. (during that whole shut down time frame - they were dropping like flies here in the Detroit area). Now - there are several very close we refuse to deal with due to horrid customer service and we drive 1/2 hour to get to the one we'll be buying my new EX from within the next month. So keep looking. Keep trying and just change dealers until you find the service dept that does it right. You don't have to take your vehicle to the place you bought it. I am new to this forum (now that the light is at the end of my tunnel ) but I had to comment when I saw this. Good luck to you!

Welcome to the Forum FordMomof3:wavey: and Happy New Year.

I have been very happy with my dealership. Free coffee and vehicle wash everytime I've come in. Called to make an appointment to take the Ex in to have the unexpected windshield wipe fixed and gave them the TSB number. The service advisor said they would have to check it out first before ordering the part. A few minutes later I received a call back and the advisor said he had been told to order the part. It will be installed when I drop in tomorrow.
No matter what the reason for my service visits, I always receive a phone call from the dealership within a day or two asking if I was satisfied with the service received.

Peter

 

[luvmyfords]

So far I have to give my '11 X-Plorer a 5 star report card. The few little hiccups that I've encountered seem to be alliviated. Just had one issue with the stereo volume not working. It froze at one level, couldn't go + or - at all. Had the dealership install the 2.11V update and bada-bing, bada-bang, she works like a charm now, and it's been 4 months since it was done.

It's hard to relate to all the issues when it doesn't happen to anybody else, such as myself. But I know Ford is on to something with the new tecky equipped vehicles. It's such a broad range of things that can go wrong, and will go wrong with any new design. Don't kid yourself if you think brand X is gonna be any better when they release something new out of the box. Time and time again, I can't emphasize the importance of having a good relationship with your dealer. I know I'm fortunate to live close to my Ford dealer who has never left me hang'n on any issues with any of my vehicles. Last count I've purchased 12 vehicles from them, all with excellent service.

 

[Jackal01]

I say it is somewhat reliable however I am more than likely going to trade it in very soon for a JGC Lardeo 4x4. I havent taken it in for the repairs needed (a pillar rattle, streaking windows, MFT and interior lighting issues). 5k miles and I am done with it. Sucks.

 

[davek4]

I have 11,000 miles on my Explorer Limited since May & other than some occasional glitches with MFT, vehicle has been perfect. No brake squeals, no noises, no transmission issues, etc.

Dave