2018 Ford Explorer ReliabilityScore, Problems, Costs & Verdict

The 2018 Ford Explorer is a midsize, three-row SUV designed for families and drivers who want everyday comfort with available towing and all-weather capability. It sits in a highly competitive segment against rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, offering strong engine choices and a quiet highway ride. The 2018 model is part of the fifth-generation Explorer (introduced for 2011), benefiting from years of refinements rather than a full redesign. It’s ideal for buyers who value available turbo power, user-friendly tech, and flexible seating for up to seven.

Shoppers researching 2018 Ford Explorer reliability should know it can be a solid family SUV, but there are several 2018 Ford Explorer problems that show up more often than owners expect. Not every vehicle is affected, yet these are among the most commonly reported issues: - Water pump leaks (3.5L V6 and 3.5L EcoBoost): The internal water pump design on certain Ford 3.5L engines can leak coolant into the engine area. Some owners report symptoms between roughly 60,000–120,000 miles, including overheating, coolant loss, or milky oil. Because the pump is labor-intensive to access, repairs can be expensive—catching leaks early is critical. - Exhaust odor in the cabin (especially EcoBoost): Some owners report a fuel/exhaust smell inside the vehicle, sometimes more noticeable during hard acceleration. This can be related to exhaust sealing issues. A proper inspection of exhaust connections and seals is important for safety and comfort. - Steering and suspension wear: Clunks, loose feeling, or wandering can develop as components like tie rods, control arm bushings, or wheel bearings wear—often becoming noticeable around 70,000–100,000 miles depending on road conditions. Alignment and tire wear can worsen if worn parts aren’t addressed quickly. - Infotainment and electrical glitches: SYNC 3 freezing, Bluetooth connection drops, backup camera intermittency, and random warning lights are common complaints. Many cases improve with software updates, but some require module diagnosis or battery/charging system checks.