by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2013 Ford Explorer Review: An Updated SUV With Some Owner Complaints

Rating: 4.49
Based on 112 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025

The 2013 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that's part of the fifth generation, which debuted in 2011. This generation moved away from a truck-based platform to a car-based unibody, offering a smoother ride. Key trims include the base, XLT, Limited, and Sport. New, the pricing ranged from around $30,000 to $40,000+. The Explorer is popular due to its spacious interior, comfortable ride, modern styling, and available technology, making it a family-friendly SUV with decent fuel economy for its class.

The Good

The 2013 Ford Explorer offers a blend of advantages. Performance-wise, the Sport trim provides a powerful engine. Comfort is a key selling point, with a spacious and well-appointed interior. The design is modern and appealing. For practical buyers, the Explorer offers decent fuel efficiency for its class and good overall value. Emotionally, the Explorer provides a sense of security and capability.

The Bad

Some known weaknesses of the 2013 Ford Explorer include potential issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system, which can be slow or buggy. Water leaks, particularly from the sunroof, have also been reported. Additionally, some owners have experienced issues with the transmission. It's crucial to check these areas thoroughly before purchasing a used model.

2013 Ford Explorer: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.5L V6 (Base, XLT, Limited): 290 hp, 255 lb-ft torque
    • 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (Available on FWD models): 240 hp, 270 lb-ft torque
    • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Sport): 365 hp, 350 lb-ft torque
  • Horsepower: 240-365 hp depending on engine choice.
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • 3.5L V6 (FWD): 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • 3.5L V6 (AWD): 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
    • 2.0L EcoBoost (FWD): 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
    • 3.5L EcoBoost (AWD): 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 0–60 Times:
    • 3.5L V6: Around 8.3 seconds
    • 2.0L EcoBoost: Around 8.7 seconds
    • 3.5L EcoBoost (Sport): Around 6.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Cloth seats, basic infotainment system, steel wheels, standard safety features.
    • XLT: Upgraded cloth seats, alloy wheels, SYNC infotainment, automatic headlights.
    • Limited: Leather seats, heated front seats, MyFord Touch infotainment, premium audio system, power liftgate.
    • Sport: 3.5L EcoBoost engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique styling cues, leather seats with red stitching, paddle shifters.

2013 Ford Explorer Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Ford
Model Explorer
Trim -
Style 4WD
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City CHICAGO
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 2204 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 178.82 cm
Overall Length 500.63 cm
Overall Width 200.41 cm
Wheelbase Length 286 cm
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.5-L V-6 DOHC 24V
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $40,720 USD
Invoice Price $37,972 USD
Delivery Charges $825 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2013 Ford Explorer Have?

The 2013 Ford Explorer has a history of reported problems, with the MyFord Touch infotainment system being a significant source of complaints. Users have reported sluggish performance, freezing screens, and difficulty connecting devices. While Ford issued software updates to address these issues, some problems persisted. Water leaks, particularly from the sunroof and liftgate area, are another frequently reported issue. These leaks can lead to mold growth and electrical problems.
Transmission issues, including rough shifting and slipping, have also been reported by some owners. While not widespread, these issues can be costly to repair. There have been recalls related to suspension components and fuel system issues that owners should be aware of. Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the infotainment system and potential for water intrusion. Regular maintenance, particularly addressing potential leaks and ensuring software updates are installed, can help mitigate some of these issues. Overall, while the 2013 Explorer offers many desirable features, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect any used model before purchasing.

How long will the 2013 Ford Explorer last?

With proper maintenance, a 2013 Ford Explorer can realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. The longevity heavily depends on maintenance habits. Owners who diligently follow the recommended service schedule, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely repairs, can expect a longer lifespan.
Long-term durability weaknesses often involve the infotainment system, potential water leaks, and suspension components. The engine and transmission, if properly maintained, are generally reliable. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear, significantly reducing the vehicle's lifespan. The interior trim and electronics may also show wear and tear over time.

Positive Owner Reviews
John S.
We've had this Explorer for 10 years and it's been a great family vehicle. It's comfortable for long road trips and has plenty of space for cargo. Maintenance has been reasonable.
David L.
For a used SUV, the 2013 Explorer is a good value. It offers plenty of features and is relatively reliable. I would recommend it to someone looking for a budget-friendly option.
Sarah M.
I love the comfort and space of the Explorer. It's perfect for hauling kids and all their stuff. The ride is smooth and the seats are comfortable, even on long drives.
Negative Owner Reviews
Emily R.
The Explorer is a nice vehicle, but the fuel economy is much worse than advertised. I find myself filling up the tank quite often, which is frustrating.
Michael B.
I've had some minor electrical issues with my Explorer, mostly related to the infotainment system. It can be a bit glitchy at times, but overall, it's a decent vehicle.
Robert K.
I've noticed some occasional rough shifting in the transmission. I've had it checked out, and the mechanic says it's a common issue with this model year. It's something to be aware of.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Ford Explorer offered a range of built-in tech and safety features. Standard features included Ford's SYNC infotainment system (upgraded to MyFord Touch on higher trims), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Entertainment options included a premium Sony audio system.
Driver-assistance features varied by trim. Available features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Safety features included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags.
Optional features included a dual-panel sunroof, navigation system, and heated/cooled front seats. The MyFord Touch system, while offering advanced functionality, was often criticized for its slow response and complex interface.
The 2013 Ford Explorer received good crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), providing reassurance in terms of safety. The NHTSA gave it an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in several crash tests.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat
Ingot Silver Metallic
Magnetic Metallic
Tuxedo Black Metallic
Red Candy Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Blue Flame Metallic
Ginger Ale Metallic
Dark Blue Pearl Metallic
Interior Colors
Stone
Charcoal Black

2013 Ford Explorer Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2013 Ford Explorer's price ranged from approximately $30,000 for the base model to over $40,000 for the Limited and Sport trims. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, mileage, and trim level.
The Explorer has depreciated significantly over the years. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and trim level. Models with lower mileage, clean titles, and well-documented maintenance records command higher prices. The Sport trim, with its more powerful engine and unique styling, tends to hold its value better than other trims. The infamous MyFord Touch system negatively impacted resale value due to customer dissatisfaction.

2013 Ford Explorer Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Ford Explorer's ownership costs are generally moderate. Insurance rates are typical for a mid-size SUV. Fuel costs depend on the engine choice and driving habits, with the EcoBoost engines offering better efficiency. Maintenance costs are average, but potential repairs, especially related to the MyFord Touch system or transmission, can be expensive.
Long-term ownership can become costly if major repairs are needed. Overall, the Explorer is not the most economical SUV to own, but it's not excessively expensive either, especially if preventative maintenance is performed regularly.

2013 Ford Explorer Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 70.41 liters
City Mileage 7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage 9.78 km/l

2013 Ford Explorer Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2013 Ford Explorer Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2013-03-27
Recall no. 13v109000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln Mks, and Model Year 2013 Explorer Vehicles Manufactured July 19, 2011, Through March 15, 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Fuel Tanks MAY Have A Marginally Sealed Seam IN THE Side OF THE Tank. AS A Result, THE Fuel Tanks MAY NOT Provide THE Expected Strength IN THE Event OF AN Impact. THE Tanks MAY Also Leak.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Fuel Tanks and Replace Them AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 9, 2013. Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 13s03. Owners MAY Contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2013-05-31
Recall no. 13v227000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility Vehicles; and Certain Model Year 2013 Lincoln Mks, Mkt, and MKZ Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Fuel Delivery Module MAY Develop A Crack, Allowing Fuel TO Leak.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Delivery Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 20, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 13s04.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Recall date 2013-06-26
Recall no. 13v270000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Ford Explorer, Taurus, and Lincoln MKS Vehicles Manufactured November 29, 2012, Through December 12, 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, With Sufficient Door Openings and Closings, THE Child Safety Locks MAY Change From AN Activated Position TO A Deactivated Position Without Notice.
Consequence IF THE Child Lock IS Deactivated, THE Door Could BE Unlocked and Opened From THE Inside Which Could Lead TO Personal Injury TO AN Unrestrained Child.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Safety Locks. IF Necessary, THE Locks Will BE Replaced Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 2, 2013. Ford's Recall Number IS 13s07. Owners MAY Contact THE Ford Customer Relationship Center AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:electric Power Assist System
Recall date 2014-05-29
Recall no. 14v286000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Ford Explorer Vehicles Manufactured MAY 17, 2010, Through February 28, 2012. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience AN Intermittent Connection IN THE Electric Power Steering Gear, Which CAN Cause A Loss OF THE Motor Position Sensor Signal Resulting IN A Shut Down OF THE Power Steering Assist.
Consequence IF THE Vehicle Experiences A Loss OF Power Steering Assist IT Will Require Extra Steering Effort AT Lower Speeds, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Power Steering Control Module (Pscm) Software, Free OF Charge. IF A Vehicle Shows A History OF A Loss OF Motor Position Sensor Signal When THE Vehicle IS Brought IN FOR THE Recall Remedy, ITS Steering Rack Assembly Will BE Replaced, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 23, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-800-392-3673. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 14s06.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2015-12-02
Recall no. 15v812000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln Mks, and Lincoln MKT Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Fuel Delivery Module MAY Crack, Allowing Fuel TO Leak.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Delivery Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 21, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 13s04-s1.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:door
Recall date 2015-03-24
Recall no. 15v171000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2013 Explorer Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Interior Door Handle Return Spring MAY Unseat, Resulting IN Interior Door Handle That Does NOT Return TO THE Fully Stowed Position After Actuation.
Consequence IF THE Interior Door Handle Return Spring IS Unseated, THE Door MAY Unlatch IN THE Event OF A Side Impact Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect All Four OF THE Interior Door Handles and Either Repair or Replace Them, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 23, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 15s11.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2017-08-28
Recall no. 17e048000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Wheel HUB Bearing Assemblies, Part Number Hb5z-1104-C, Incorrectly Listed AS Being FOR Installation ON THE Rear Axles OF 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 Vehicles. These Bearings Assemblies Were Manufactured Without A Self Retention Feature, Possibly Resulting IN THE Separation OF THE Wheel or Wheel End.
Consequence A Loss OF THE Wheel or Wheel END CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Notify THE Distributors OF THE Hubs Specifying That They ARE TO Only BE Used ON Drive Axles. IT IS Believed That None OF THE Hubs Were Purchased From Ford Dealers FOR THE Incorrect Application. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Wheels:hub
Recall date 2017-08-28
Recall no. 17e048000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Wheel HUB Bearing Assemblies, Part Number Hb5z-1104-C, Incorrectly Listed AS Being FOR Installation ON THE Rear Axles OF 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 Vehicles. These Bearings Assemblies Were Manufactured Without A Self Retention Feature, Possibly Resulting IN THE Separation OF THE Wheel or Wheel End.
Consequence A Loss OF THE Wheel or Wheel END CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Notify THE Distributors OF THE Hubs Specifying That They ARE TO Only BE Used ON Drive Axles. IT IS Believed That None OF THE Hubs Were Purchased From Ford Dealers FOR THE Incorrect Application. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2020-10-30
Recall no. 20v675000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 Explorer Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin That Were Previously Repaired Under A Prior Recall Numbers 16v-245 or 19v-435. THE Outboard Section OF A Rear Suspension TOE Link MAY Fracture.
Consequence A Rear TOE Link Fracture CAN Result IN A Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Cross-Axis Ball Joint (Cabj) Knuckle Attached TO THE Rear Suspension TOE Link and Replace IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 27, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 20s62.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2019-06-10
Recall no. 19v435000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2017 Explorer Vehicles. THE Rear Suspension TOE Links MAY Fracture DUE TO Stress ON THE Rear Suspension.
Consequence A Fractured Rear TOE Link Will Cause A Sudden Change IN Vehicle Handling and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Ford Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links, and Inspect Both Rear TOE Link Ball Joints, Replacing THE Rear Wheel Knuckle(S), IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 26, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 19s17.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2021-09-22
Recall no. 21v746000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2013 Explorer Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. These Vehicles MAY BE Equipped With A Cross-Axis Ball Joint (Cabj) Replacement Part That Could Seize, and Result IN A Fracture OF THE Outboard Section OF THE Rear Suspension TOE Link.
Consequence A Rear TOE Link Fracture CAN Result IN A Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealer Will Inspect FOR THE Presence OF A Cabj. IF A Cabj OF ANY Design IS Found, THE Dealer Will Inspect THE Tightness OF THE Cabj, and Replace THE Cabj, Knuckle, And/Or TOE Link AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Interim Notification Letters Were Mailed November 10, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 17, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21s43.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2021-07-15
Recall no. 21v537000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 Explorer Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. Exposure TO Road Salt CAN Cause THE Cross-Axis Ball Joint TO Corrode and Seize, Resulting IN A Fracture OF THE Outboard Section OF THE Rear Suspension TOE Link.
Consequence A Rear Toe-Link Fracture CAN Result IN A Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace AS Necessary, THE Cross-Axis Ball Joint (Cabj) Knuckle, and Replace THE Rear Suspension TOE Links, Free OF Charge. This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Previous Nhtsa Recall Numbers 16v-245, 19v-435, and 20v-675. Certain Vehicles Previously Repaired Will Need TO Return FOR THE NEW Remedy. AN Interim Notification Letter Notifying Owners OF THE Safety Risk Were Mailed ON September 10, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON March 16, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Ford's Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 21s32.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Recall date 2024-01-19
Recall no. 24v031000
Source NHTSA
Summary Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2019 Explorer Vehicles. THE A-Pillar Trim Retention Clips MAY NOT BE Properly Engaged, Allowing THE Trim TO Detach.
Consequence A Detached Trim Piece CAN Fall OFF THE Vehicle, Becoming A Road Hazard and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE A-Pillar Trim AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON April 2, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 24s02.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2013 Ford Explorer Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2013 Ford Explorer Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 Ford Explorer is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 Ford Explorer Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2013 Ford Explorer competes with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, and Nissan Pathfinder. In terms of performance, the Explorer Sport offered a distinct advantage with its EcoBoost V6. Feature-wise, the Explorer was competitive, though the MyFord Touch system was often less user-friendly than rivals' systems.
Reliability is where the Explorer lagged behind the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, which have consistently higher reliability ratings. The Chevrolet Traverse and Nissan Pathfinder offered similar levels of reliability. In terms of price, the Explorer was generally comparable to its competitors when new, and used prices reflect this.
Alternatives to the 2013 Explorer include the Toyota Highlander, which offers superior reliability. The Honda Pilot is another reliable choice with a spacious interior. The Chevrolet Traverse offers similar size and features, while the Nissan Pathfinder provides a comfortable ride. For buyers prioritizing reliability, the Highlander or Pilot are better choices. If performance is a key concern, the Explorer Sport is a strong contender. For similar value and features, the Traverse and Pathfinder are worth considering.

Ranks #601 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
601 2013 Ford Explorer (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Ford Explorer a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2013 Ford Explorer is ideal for families seeking a spacious and stylish mid-size SUV with decent performance. It's worth buying used if thoroughly inspected for common issues like water leaks and infotainment problems.
The Sport trim is appealing for those wanting more power. The XLT and Limited trims offer a good balance of features and value. Before purchasing, carefully review the vehicle's maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. If reliability is a top priority, alternatives like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot might be better choices. If the 2013 Explorer is in good condition and priced competitively, it can be a worthwhile purchase.

2013 Ford Explorer Owner Reviews

4.49
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

John S. on March 18, 2025

Reliable Family Vehicle

We've had this Explorer for 10 years and it's been a great family vehicle. It's comfortable for long road trips and has plenty of space for cargo. Maintenance has been reasonable.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Emily R. on March 18, 2025

Disappointed with Fuel Economy

The Explorer is a nice vehicle, but the fuel economy is much worse than advertised. I find myself filling up the tank quite often, which is frustrating.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

David L. on March 18, 2025

Good Value for the Price

For a used SUV, the 2013 Explorer is a good value. It offers plenty of features and is relatively reliable. I would recommend it to someone looking for a budget-friendly option.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Sarah M. on March 18, 2025

Comfortable and Spacious

I love the comfort and space of the Explorer. It's perfect for hauling kids and all their stuff. The ride is smooth and the seats are comfortable, even on long drives.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Michael B. on March 18, 2025

Some Electrical Issues

I've had some minor electrical issues with my Explorer, mostly related to the infotainment system. It can be a bit glitchy at times, but overall, it's a decent vehicle.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Jessica P. on March 18, 2025

Great for Road Trips

The Explorer is fantastic for road trips. Plenty of room for luggage and passengers, and the ride is very comfortable. I especially appreciate the features like cruise control and the sound system.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Robert K. on March 18, 2025

Transmission Concerns

I've noticed some occasional rough shifting in the transmission. I've had it checked out, and the mechanic says it's a common issue with this model year. It's something to be aware of.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Ashley T. on March 18, 2025

Love the Third-Row Seating

The third-row seating is a lifesaver for our family. It's easy to access and provides plenty of room for extra passengers. It makes carpooling a breeze.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Kevin G. on March 18, 2025

Okay, but Could Be Better

It's an okay SUV, nothing special. Does the job, but I wouldn't rave about it. I think there are better options in the same price range.

Was this review helpful?
0
0

Brittany H. on March 18, 2025

Reliable and Safe

I feel very safe driving my Explorer. It's a solid vehicle with good safety features. I've never had any major issues with it.

Was this review helpful?
0
0
Author Image
Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.