2024 Ford Explorer
Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2024 models.

- Class
- Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
- Body styles
- 4dr SUV, 4dr SUV Hybrid
- Engines
- 2.3L 4-cyl turbo, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo, 3.3L 6-cyl
- Drivetrain
- Rear-Wheel Drive, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Regular Gasoline, FFV
- MPG (best)
- 24 combined · 21 city / 28 hwy
- Length
- 198.8 in
- Curb weight
- 4,458–4,969 lb
- NHTSA rating
- ★★★★★
- Recalls
- 10 campaigns
Pros & cons
What's good
- AWD / 4WD available
- 5-star NHTSA safety ratingTop overall score in federal crash tests.
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Few owner complaints21 complaints filed with NHTSA versus about 86 for similar models.
Watch out for
- 10 recallsMore than similar models (about 4). Confirm repairs with the VIN.
Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 28 similar 2024 models — not a review. How we calculate this →
Overview
The 2024 Ford Explorer is a standard SUV offered with 3 engines (2.3L 4-cyl turbo, 3.0L 6-cyl turbo and 3.3L 6-cyl) and rear-wheel drive and part-time 4-wheel drive.
It measures about 199 inches long and 79 inches wide on a 119-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,458 lb (4dr SUV).
EPA rates its most efficient version at 24 MPG combined (21 city / 28 highway), 14% better than the 2024 standard SUV average of 21 MPG, for an estimated $2,800 a year in fuel.
In NHTSA crash testing it earned the top 5-star overall rating.
It has 10 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 21 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the unknown or other.
What changed for 2024
- No hybrid version any more
- Best combined MPG down from 27 to 24
Compared with 2023; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2023 Explorer →
Trims, performance & features
Trims
Safety & driver-assist features
Built in: Chicago, Illinois
NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2024 Explorer configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →
Dimensions & weight
| Body | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Track F / R | Curb weight | Weight F/R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4dr SUV | 198.8 in | 78.7 in | 70.1 in | 119.3 in | 66.9 / 66.9 in | 4,458 lb | 50/50 |
| 4dr SUV Hybrid | 198.8 in | 78.7 in | 70.1 in | 119.3 in | 66.9 / 66.9 in | 4,969 lb | 52/48 |
Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.
Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →Engines, MPG & running costs
| Version | Engine | Transmission | Drive | City / Hwy / Comb | vs. class | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explorer RWD | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 21 / 28 / 24 | +14% | $2,800 | 370 |
| Explorer AWD | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | 20 / 27 / 23 | +20% | $2,900 | 387 |
| Explorer RWD | 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 / 26 / 21 | 0% | $3,200 | 426 |
| Explorer Timberline AWD | 2.3L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | 19 / 22 / 21 | +9% | $3,200 | 433 |
| Explorer RWD | 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 / 25 / 20 | -5% | $3,350 | 437 |
| Explorer AWD | 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | Automatic 10-spd | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | 18 / 24 / 20 | +4% | $3,350 | 444 |
| Explorer AWD | 3.0L 6-cyl turbo | Automatic (S10) | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | 18 / 24 / 20 | +4% | $3,350 | 445 |
| Explorer FFV AWD FFV | 3.3L 6-cyl | Automatic 10-spd | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | 17 / 24 / 20 | +4% | $3,350 | 444 |
EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2024 EPA class average. How we calculate this →
Safety ratings & technology
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Driver / passenger | Side | Side pole | Rollover | Rollover risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Ford Explorer SUV 4WD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 5★ / 5★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 15.1% |
| 2024 Ford Explorer SUV RWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 5★ / 5★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 14.7% |


Similar 2024 standard SUVs
| Model | Best MPG / range | NHTSA overall | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Ford Explorer (this car) | 24 MPG | ★★★★★ | 10 |
| 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser | 23 MPG | Not rated | 5 |
| 2024 Toyota 4Runner | 17 MPG | ★★★★★ | 1 |
| 2024 Toyota Highlander | 36 MPG | ★★★★★ | 7 |
| 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 23 MPG | ★★★★★ | 18 |
| 2024 Kia Telluride | 22 MPG | ★★★★★ | 5 |
| 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe | 36 MPG | ★★★★★ | 7 |
Recalls (10)
Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly · Jul 14, 2026
NHTSA campaign 26V451000 · 387,911 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2027 Aviator and 2020-2026 Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, tipping, or sliding unexpectedly.
- Risk
- A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters explaining the safety risk were mailed August 19, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Lincoln Aviator owner notification letters were mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S52. This recall expands Recall 25V393. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 16, 2026.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · Jun 9, 2026
NHTSA campaign 26V371000 · 58 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 10R60 automatic transmission. An unintentional powertrain control module (PCM) reset may occur while the vehicle is in motion and result in park system damage.
- Risk
- A park system that is damaged may not shift into "PARK," resulting in a vehicle rollaway and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect for park system damage and replace the park system components as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2026. Owners may contact customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S39. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 12, 2026.
Seat Belts · Mar 17, 2026
NHTSA campaign 26V159000 · 561 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The seat belt anchor bolts at the second-row outer seating positions may be improperly secured.
- Risk
- A loose seat belt buckle may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect the second-row outer seat belt lower anchor bolts and replace or repair them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 30, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C18. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 19, 2026.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Mar 3, 2026
NHTSA campaign 26V123000 · 889,950 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2020-2024 Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The image on the center display may flip or invert, resulting in an incorrectly displayed rearview image when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Risk
- An incorrectly displayed rearview image can reduce the driverâs view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C11. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 5, 2026.
Equipment › Electrical › Engine Block Heater · Jan 15, 2026
NHTSA campaign 26V012000 · 2,403 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Focus, 2019 Explorer, and 2024 Explorer vehicles. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in.
- Risk
- An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Fix
- Owners are advised not to plug in their block heater until the vehicle is remedied. Dealers will replace the block heater, free of charge. Owners will also have a alternative option to replace engine block heater element with a threaded blanking plug, and remove the block heater electrical cord. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed February 13, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in December 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on January 16, 2026. This recall expands previous recall number 25V685.
Trailer Hitches · Oct 10, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V687000 · 1,412 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.
- Risk
- While towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach. Either of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and tighten the trailer hitch bolts, or replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA3. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.
Back Over Prevention › Software · Jun 27, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V442000 · 200,237 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
- Risk
- A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly · Jun 13, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V393000 · 304,662 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
- Risk
- A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.
Equipment › Other › Labels · Nov 8, 2024
NHTSA campaign 24V852000 · 27,678 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Risk
- Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Fix
- Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.
Hybrid Propulsion System · Sep 13, 2024
NHTSA campaign 24V685000 · 61 vehicles
- Problem
- Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Ford Explorer vehicles equipped with 3.3L Hybrid engines. The 12-Volt battery cable may chafe against the Belt-integrated Starter Generat (BiSG) and short circuit.
- Risk
- A short circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Fix
- Dealers will install a tie strap between the battery cable and high voltage cable, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 8, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S61.
Not every 2024 Ford Explorer is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.
Owner-reported problems
Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.
Used 2024 Ford Explorer buyer's checklist
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 10 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
- Visibility/Wiper — 3 owner reports. Check all exterior lights, wipers and the windshield for cracks.
- Suspension — 3 owner reports. Drive over bumps and listen for clunks; look for uneven tire wear.
- Steering — 2 owner reports. Turn lock-to-lock while parked and on the road; listen for noises and feel for heavy or loose steering.
- Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 11,103 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
- Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.
Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2024 Ford Explorer. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Other Explorer years
Compare all years →| Year | MPG (best) | Length | Overall | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 Explorer | 23 | – | Not rated | 2 | 0 |
| 2026 Explorer | 24 | 198.8 in | Not rated | 15 | 42 |
| 2025 Explorer | 24 | 198.8 in | ★★★★★ | 22 | 109 |
| 2023 Explorer | 27 | 198.8 in | ★★★★★ | 15 | 113 |
| 2022 Explorer | 27 | 198.8 in | Not rated | 25 | 273 |
| 2021 Explorer | 27 | 198.8 in | ★★★★★ | 27 | 456 |
| 2020 Explorer | 28 | 198.8 in | ★★★★★ | 35 | 1,249 |
| 2019 Explorer | 22 | 198.4 in | ★★★★★ | 6 | 300 |
| 2018 Explorer | 22 | 198.4 in | ★★★★★ | 7 | 737 |
| 2017 Explorer | 22 | 198.4 in | ★★★★★ | 14 | 1,713 |
| 2016 Explorer | 22 | 198.4 in | Not rated | 14 | 2,484 |
| 2015 Explorer | 23 | 197.2 in | Not rated | 8 | 1,815 |
Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Ford. How we calculate this →