Last updated: 2026-05-15

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110: Reliability Compared

More ReliableFord Explorer reliability comparison

Ford Explorer

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good
VS
Land Rover Defender 110 reliability comparison

Land Rover Defender 110

60
GoodReliability score: 60 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Ford Explorer and the Land Rover Defender 110? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Ford Explorer currently leads with an average score of 66/100 compared to 60/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Defender 110 Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Ford Explorer is in its sixth generation (U625), which was introduced in 2020. Being relatively early in its generation cycle, potential buyers should be aware that newer platforms can sometimes exhibit first-year issues. The Explorer's previous generation, the fifth (U502), ran from 2011 to 2019 and included a significant facelift in 2016, marking a mature period that often indicates well-sorted reliability. In contrast, the Land Rover Defender 110 lacks detailed generation history, making it challenging to compare directly with the Explorer. Without specific generational data, potential buyers should consider other factors such as brand reputation and model reviews when evaluating reliability.

Verdict

The Ford Explorer is more reliable than the Land Rover Defender 110, scoring 66/100 vs 60/100.

The Ford Explorer demonstrates a marginally better reliability profile than the Land Rover Defender 110, with an average reliability score of 66/100 compared to the Defender's 60/100. Despite the Explorer's high recall count of 117 over nine years, its owner complaints per 10,000 sold are significantly lower at 6.8, compared to the Defender's 20.7. Additionally, independent repair cost estimates for the Explorer are available at $732 annually, providing clearer maintenance expectations. While both models have common issues with their electrical systems, the Explorer's lower complaint rate and transparent repair costs give it a slight edge in reliability.

Key Differences

  1. 1Land Rover Defender 110 has 94 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Ford Explorer has 13.9 fewer complaints per 10k sold
  3. 3Ford Explorer scores 6 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

2Ford Explorer
—
1Land Rover Defender 110
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110: Which Is More Reliable?

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110 at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricFord ExplorerLand Rover Defender 110
Reliability Score66/10060/100
Years Tracked96
Total Recalls11723
Complaints per 10k Sold6.820.7
Year Wins50

What Are the Common Problems With the Ford Explorer and Land Rover Defender 110?

The Ford Explorer exhibits a higher frequency of complaints compared to the Land Rover Defender 110, with significant issues in the power train and structure, indicating potential reliability concerns in these areas. Notably, the Explorer has a substantial number of crash-linked complaints, particularly in the power train and service brakes, which could imply more severe safety implications. Conversely, the Defender 110, while having fewer overall complaints, shows a concentration in the electrical system and visibility/wiper categories, though these are less frequently linked to crashes. Both vehicles have issues with their electrical systems, but the Explorer's broader range of problem areas, especially those linked to crashes, suggests more pervasive reliability challenges.

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110 common problem areas comparison
ComponentFord ExplorerLand Rover Defender 110
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM0.7Very Low6.5Average
VISIBILITY/WIPER—None4.3Average
POWER TRAIN1.6Low1.1Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER1.1Low1.3Low
STEERING0.2Very Low1.8Low
EXTERIOR LIGHTING—None1.7Low
STRUCTURE1Very Low0.4Very Low
ENGINE0.4Very Low0.6Very Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION0.2Very Low0.2Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.2Very Low—None
SUSPENSION0.1Very Low—None
SEATS0.1Very Low—None
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING0.1Very Low—None
AIR BAGS0.1Very Low—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL—None—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE—None—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM—None—None
FUEL SYSTEM—None—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Ford Explorer or Land Rover Defender 110?

Based on independent repair cost data, the Ford Explorer incurs an annual repair cost of $732 with a repair frequency of 0.2 visits per year and a 14% risk of major repairs. While specific data for the Land Rover Defender 110 is unavailable, industry observations often note higher repair costs and frequency for luxury brands like Land Rover. The Explorer's lower repair frequency and moderate risk of major repairs suggest it is a more reliable choice for cost-conscious buyers. Over a typical 5-year ownership period, the Explorer's predictable costs could save owners substantial amounts, making it a more economical option compared to the potentially higher expenses associated with the Defender 110.

How Does Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110 Reliability Compare by Year?

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110 year-by-year reliability scores
YearFord ExplorerLand Rover Defender 110Edge
202572/10014R / 65C59/1001R / 8CFord Explorer
202473/1006R / 14C64/1004R / 16CFord Explorer
202371/10012R / 84C57/1007R / 70CFord Explorer
202265/10021R / 208C59/1004R / 61CFord Explorer
202162/10022R / 354C59/1007R / 32CFord Explorer
2026(predicted)72/100(predicted)60/100(predicted)Ford Explorer

Best years to cross-shop: The 2024 Ford Explorer scored 73/100 and the 2024 Land Rover Defender 110 scored 64/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Ford Explorer vs the Land Rover Defender 110?

If you prioritize reliability and lower running costs, the Ford Explorer may be the better choice for you. With a reliability score of 66/100, it surpasses the Land Rover Defender 110's 60/100. The Explorer also benefits from lower owner complaints at 6.8 per 10,000 sold, compared to the Defender's 20.7. Additionally, independent repair cost estimates suggest an annual cost of $732 for the Explorer, while similar data isn't available for the Defender, indicating potentially higher unpredictability in maintenance expenses. On the other hand, if you are drawn to fewer recalls and perhaps a more unique driving experience, the Land Rover Defender 110 could suit your tastes. It has significantly fewer recalls at 23 compared to the Explorer's 117. However, be prepared for higher complaint rates and undefined repair costs, which may lead to unexpected expenses. Consider your priorities and budget flexibility when making your decision.

Ford Explorer vs Land Rover Defender 110: Common Questions

Is the Ford Explorer more reliable than the Land Rover Defender 110?
Based on our data, the Ford Explorer is more reliable with an average score of 66/100 compared to 60/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Ford Explorer or the Land Rover Defender 110?
The Ford Explorer has more recalls (117) compared to the Land Rover Defender 110 (23). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Ford Explorer or the Land Rover Defender 110?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Ford Explorer has a lower complaint rate at 6.8 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 20.7 for the Land Rover Defender 110. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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