2018 Ford Explorer Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners report several electrical issues with the 2018 Ford Explorer, with common problems including failures of the APIM module and battery-related issues. Complaints frequently mention the APIM module causing the backup camera, radio, and climate controls to malfunction, with some reports indicating these issues worsen in colder weather. Battery failures often involve acid leaks or explosions, with some incidents resulting in engine compartment fires. Multiple owners describe water leaks affecting electrical components, leading to dashboard and air system malfunctions. These issues typically emerge at various mileages, with some reports around the 70,000 to 138,000-mile range. Safety implications are significant, with reports of fires and locked doors during such events, posing potential risks to occupants.

Owners report frequent transmission issues with the 2018 Ford Explorer, including transmission failure, torque converter problems, and rough shifting. Symptoms commonly described are excessive vibration, loss of power, and the vehicle getting stuck in gear, often occurring around 60,000 to 120,000 miles. Some complaints mention safety implications, such as sudden power loss on highways and difficulty controlling the vehicle, which could lead to dangerous situations. Additionally, some reports indicate recurring issues even after repairs, suggesting potential ongoing reliability concerns for prospective buyers.

Owners report frequent issues with the 2018 Ford Explorer's engine and cooling systems, particularly involving water pump failures and coolant leaks, often leading to engine overheating. These problems are typically noted around 40,000 to 131,000 miles. Symptoms include illuminated check engine lights, overheating warnings, and visible coolant leaks. Several owners also describe strong exhaust or sulfur odors inside the vehicle, which can cause nausea or dizziness, with one case reporting an injury. Additionally, there is one report of black smoke and potential engine fires, indicating possible safety risks.

Owners report frequent issues with the steering system of the 2018 Ford Explorer, with symptoms often including a sudden loss of power steering, making the vehicle difficult to maneuver. Complaints frequently mention warning lights such as the "Power Steering Assist Fault" and steering wheel seizures, typically occurring around 20,000 to 74,000 miles. Two incidents involve crashes, highlighting significant safety implications, including loss of vehicle control at high speeds. Additionally, some owners note issues with steering rack and column failures, with repairs often involving costly replacements. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers regarding the vehicle's steering reliability and associated safety risks.

Owners report frequent issues with the suspension system of the 2018 Ford Explorer, particularly involving the rear toe link and control arm failures. Common symptoms include sudden loss of steering control, swaying, and abnormal noises from the rear, often leading to loss of vehicle control. These issues are reported at various mileages, with some instances occurring as early as 2,000 miles and others around 137,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple complaints involve crashes resulting from these failures, including two incidents where the vehicle veered off the road. Used car buyers should be aware of these patterns and consider inspection for these specific suspension components.

Owners of the 2018 Ford Explorer frequently report issues with the braking system, including brake failure and loss of braking power. Common symptoms include extended stopping distances, brakes locking up, and brake fluid leaks, with some owners noting missing components in the brake assembly. These problems often occur at various mileages, with reports as early as 982 miles and others around 50,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes—one resulting in injury—and another describes a fire linked to brake line failure. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider having the braking system thoroughly inspected prior to purchase.

Owners of the 2018 Ford Explorer report several issues related to the airbag system. A common pattern involves the front passenger airbag indicator inconsistently indicating status, especially with lighter passengers, leading to uncertainty about airbag deployment during a crash. Another significant issue is the non-deployment of airbags during collisions, as described in a crash where the vehicle's airbags did not activate upon impact with another car. Additionally, one owner expresses concern about the dashboard vinyl potentially affecting airbag deployment due to its separation. These complaints, which sometimes involve vehicles with varying mileage, highlight potential safety risks, including crashes and injuries.