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Ford Explorer: which year should you buy?
Across the 2011 to 2025 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2024 (81/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.
Every model year, scored
Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.
87 complaints · 18 recalls
19 complaints · 9 recalls
99 complaints · 14 recalls
242 complaints · 23 recalls
392 complaints · 25 recalls
1,153 complaints · 32 recalls
281 complaints · 5 recalls
705 complaints · 6 recalls
1,665 complaints · 13 recalls
2,423 complaints · 14 recalls
1,747 complaints · 9 recalls
1,669 complaints · 7 recalls
2,222 complaints · 12 recalls
820 complaints · 7 recalls
1,191 complaints · 8 recalls
Zeroing in on the 2024?
The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2024 Ford Explorer’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.
Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2025 Ford Explorer head-to-head →