Tempted by a used 2011 Ford Explorer? Read this first

The 2011 Ford Explorer may look like a deal (it might even be one), but don’t skip the fine print

The Ford Explorer was built more for suburban families than serious off-roaders. With seating for seven, it offered the features you’d expect in a mid-size SUV.

Ford gambled with the 2011 Explorer, and in the long run, it hasn’t entirely paid off.

Once a traditional, truck-based SUV known for its off-road durability, the Explorer was completely re-engineered that year into a car-like, front-wheel-drive crossover. The move was meant to appeal to suburban families more than weekend trail riders. And while the redesign delivered better fuel economy and modern in-vehicle technology, it also came with long-term reliability concerns.

The shift marked a complete departure from the Explorer’s roots. Built on a unibody platform shared with the Ford Taurus sedan, the 2011 Explorer focused on comfort and efficiency rather than rugged capability.

Engine options included a 3.5-litre V6 with 290 horsepower or a 2.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder introduced later in the model year. Both used a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available, along with selectable drive modes for mud, snow, sand and hill descent control. AWD systems automatically send power to all four wheels when needed, offering improved traction in rain, snow or loose surfaces.

The new platform brought a smoother, quieter ride and introduced more features aimed at family comfort. Three trims were offered in Canada: base, XLT and Limited. As you moved up the lineup, features included leather seating, a backup camera, power tailgate, ambient interior lighting and even a power-folding third-row seat on the Limited model.

Fuel economy was a major selling point. The EcoBoost four-cylinder offered highway ratings near 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres—impressive for a seven-passenger SUV at the time. But the smaller engine didn’t have the same hauling power as the V6, especially when fully loaded.

Ford’s MyFord Touch and SYNC infotainment systems, developed with Microsoft and Sony, were also key selling features. They offered touchscreen controls, voice commands and Bluetooth connectivity. But many owners reported freezing screens, unresponsive controls and frequent software issues that required resets or reprogramming.

Reliability was the 2011 Explorer’s biggest weakness. Consumer Reports gave it a “much worse than average” rating. Problem areas included the cooling system, audio electronics, climate control and body hardware. At the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 200 complaints were logged, including multiple reports of power steering failure while driving.

Ford had issued some recalls, including two in Canada—a minor labelling issue and a possible weakness in the rear seat recliner mechanism. In 2024, a new recall covered trim panels near the windshield that could detach at highway speeds.

Some of the most costly and commonly reported issues include:

• Water pump failure: The pump is located inside the engine. If it leaks, coolant can mix with oil and destroy the engine. Repairs can be expensive and may require engine replacement.
• PTU (power transfer unit) failure: Found in AWD models, the PTU can overheat, leak or seize. Replacement costs are high and failure typically occurs around 150,000 kilometres.
• Power steering failure: Sudden loss of electric assist, often caused by faulty sensors or control modules. Can occur with little warning and may persist after repairs.
• SYNC/MyFord Touch failures: Freezing screens, Bluetooth dropouts and system crashes have continued to frustrate many drivers.
• Other issues: Premature brake wear, suspension problems, ignition coil faults and cooling system leaks appear frequently in high-mileage units.

One former owner from Calgary wrote on AutoTrader: “It was fine for the first year, but then the steering got stiff, the touchscreen froze all the time, and the rear air conditioning stopped working. Cost me thousands before I finally sold it.” A Saskatchewan owner shared: “Ours has 230,000 kilometres and still runs well—just had to replace the water pump and rear shocks. As long as you keep up with maintenance, it’s a good family hauler.”

If you’re shopping for a 2011 Explorer today, look for a full service history with water pump and PTU work, confirmation of recall repairs, smooth drivetrain performance and a functional infotainment system. As with any older vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended, especially for AWD models.

Expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on mileage, condition, trim and drivetrain. All-wheel-drive and EcoBoost versions tend to cost more, but they also carry more risk.

Our Verdict

The 2011 Ford Explorer marked a major shift toward refinement, technology and family convenience but also introduced complexity and mechanical risks that have hurt its long-term reputation. If you find a well-maintained example and are prepared for possible repairs, it can still offer value.

| Auto Desk