The 2021 Ford Explorer Is the #1 SUV You Need to Avoid
Check it out. The 2021 Ford Explorer just got a new award. However, the Ford Explorer and other SUVs really don’t want this title. The Explorer is listed as the most unreliable midsize SUV. Yikes, what problems does it have?
The 2021 Ford Explorer is the least reliable SUV
According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Ford Explorer is the least reliable midsize SUV. It’s not alone on this list, just the SUV with the most potential issues. The list of the top five unreliable SUVs for 2021 includes:
- 5. 2021 Jeep Wrangler
- 4. 2021 Volkswagen Atlas
- 3. 2021 Subaru Ascent
- 2. 2021 Dodge Durango
- 1. 2021 Ford Explorer
Consumer Reports ranks vehicles for a predicted reliability score based on owner surveys. Actual owners of the vehicle report on 17 potential trouble spots ranging from engine and transmission problems to body integrity, electrical issues, and more. Then the vehicles get a score between zero and 100 based on the results.
What’s wrong with the Explorer?
The 2021 Ford Explorer earned a score of 1 out of 100 for its predicted reliability rating. That’s one of the lowest scores of the year! Owners of the Ford Explorer mentioned that they faced transmission problems, engine issues, drive system trouble, electronic failure, and drive system issues.
Problems with the Ford Explorer emerged when the model was redesigned for 2020. Some say that the Explorer was redesigned too quickly, and it was launched with multiple problems. The 2020 model had 12 recalls to support that claim.
The recalls included a loose motor mount for the engine, defective drive shafts for the powertrain, seat belt failure, a wiring issue for the air conditioning, parking brake failure, and more.
There are two recalls for the 2021 Explorer, including the engine mount recall and a recall for the improper deployment of a side airbag. But he, going from 12 recalls to two, could mean that the Explorer is improving.
Is there any reason to buy a Ford Explorer?
Yes, the 2021 Ford Explorer is a good SUV. It might have a low-reliability score, but it received a score of 79 out of 100 for the driving experience. This metric includes acceleration and handling, so it’s fun to drive.
It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds with the ST trim. It’s pretty responsive and provides a sporty feel. The Explorer provides plenty of grip with excellent cornering. But it can be slow to shift in city traffic.
The Explorer also scored a 75 out of 100 for its comfort. This metric includes the seats, climate control, noise, and ride. While rival SUVs have more passenger space, the Explorer can still accommodate adults in the second row. The third row is for kids only.
A standard 8.0-inch touchscreen comes standard, but you can upgrade to a 10.1-inch unit. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are included. The system is easy to use and pretty responsive.
You can get started in a 2021 Ford Explorer for about $32,925. The issues that lead to its low-reliability rating could have been solved. The recalls addressed a variety of problems. Don’t count it out just yet!
