Are Ford Trucks Reliable?

Since its launch, the Ford Explorer has become a firm favorite among SUV drivers in the U.S. With over 8 million units sold, it's clear that this adaptable vehicle has a loyal following. But let's be honest — not all model years are created equally when it comes to reliability. If you're shopping for a used Explorer, you'll want to know which years are the most dependable to avoid expensive breakdowns and repairs. more Used Explorer Inventory Understanding the Ford Explorer's Legacy The Ford Explorer made its debut in 1990 and quickly gained popularity as America's appetite for SUVs grew. Unlike its smaller predecessor, the Bronco II, the Explorer gave families ample room while still tackling both city streets and off-road trails with equal confidence. Over the past three decades, the vehicle has changed significantly, evolving to meet shifting consumer demands and keep pace with technological advancements. Through it all, Ford has successfully maintained the Explorer's relevance in a competitive market. Identifying the Best Years for the Ford Explorer The Explorer received a thorough refresh for the 2016 model year, with later fifth-generation models including a fuel-efficient 2.3L EcoBoost engine as standard that's paired with a reliable six-speed automatic transmission. They also include a suite of premium safety features previously found only in luxury vehicles. The interior offers comfortable seating, intuitive technology, and abundant storage space, which is ideal for families and adventurers alike. When properly equipped, these Explorers can tow up to 5,000 pounds — sufficient for most recreational needs. This combination of capability, reliability, and modern features makes later fifth-generation models an excellent choice for used SUV shoppers. Newer sixth-generation models (2020-present) maintain this trend, with the latest 2025 model earning 83/100 from J.D. Power for quality and reliability and a five-star NHTSA score. This generation offers improved performance and towing power. Also worth considering is the fourth-generation 2009 model, which is particularly notable for its low number of complaints on Car Complaints and a J.D. Power quality and reliability score of 85/100. How To Avoid the Less Reliable Ford Explorer Years Not all Ford Explorer model years perform equally well. The 2002 model, in particular, stands out for its number of negative reviews, with 3,617 NHTSA complaints and 3,967 Car Complaints reports, mostly related to transmission issues. Fixing a 2002 Explorer's transmission can cost you around $3,000 — a significant expense. Fourth-generation (2006-2010) models are known for developing timing chain issues, which can lead to engine failure. Plus, the third-generation 2005 Explorer was part of a huge recall involving over four million vehicles due to faulty cruise control switches that could potentially start fires. Add in frequent transmission failures and suspension issues, and it's clear why experts often warn buyers away from this year. What To Look For When Buying a Used Ford Explorer Research is crucial when buying a used Explorer. Always check the vehicle history report and maintenance records. Take a test drive, evaluate the vehicle's transmission shifting and suspension performance, and listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate underlying expensive problems. Investing $100 to $200 in a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is your best protection against purchasing an unreliable vehicle. This small expense could save you thousands by revealing hidden issues and helping you to negotiate better on price. While well-maintained vehicles from problematic years can still perform adequately, you'll generally find more peace of mind with the reliable models mentioned earlier. Is the Ford Explorer the Right Choice for You? There's no doubt about the Ford Explorer's popularity. With around 200,000 sold annually, it remains one of the country's top-selling SUVs. Its blend of spacious interiors, capable performance, and modern features attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But is it right for you? That depends on your needs and driving habits. The best way to find out is to get behind the wheel. Contact us at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken to arrange a test drive and explore our inventory. Our team can help match you with the perfect Explorer for your lifestyle, whether you want brand new or gently used.

When you're buying a car, reliability matters — with cars these days more expensive than ever, finding one that will last is a key concern. Toyota has built a strong reputation for reliability over the years, and for good reason, but Ford has stepped up its game big time. The truth is that today's Ford vehicles are built differently. They're engineered for quality and durability, meaning the gap isn't just closing — often, Ford is leading the pack. So, why are Ford cars reliable? And when it comes to Ford versus Toyota, why are so many smart buyers choosing the blue oval? Let our team at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken take you through the facts. more New Ford Inventory Manufacturer Specials Historical Reliability Toyota made its name in the U.S. in the 80s and 90s. Back then, American cars had some consistency problems. This created a perception that still lingers for a lot of people, but things have changed — over the last 10 years, Ford has transformed its approach to quality, completely reinventing its engineering and manufacturing standards. The results speak for themselves. Recent studies show Ford vehicles scoring above the industry average in reliability rankings. Toyota still makes dependable cars, but it's had its share of problems, too, with several major recalls affecting millions of Toyota vehicles. Build Quality and Engineering "Built Ford Tough" isn't just a catchy slogan — it's how these vehicles are made. Ford engineers use advanced materials science to gives their cars and trucks a real edge. Take the F-Series trucks. Ford turned to high-strength aluminum alloy, which other brands were slow to adopt, allowing engineers to make these trucks more durable while cutting weight. It's this kind of smart engineering that explains why Ford's reliability has improved so much. While Toyota plays it safe with small improvements, Ford makes bold moves that pay off in the long run, creating vehicles that stay reliable year after year. You can check out our entire lineup of Built Ford Tough cars, trucks, and SUVs in our inventory of new vehicles. Durability Testing What happens before a car hits our lot is critical in making sure it's ready for you to drive it home. Ford's testing program is seriously intense, pushing vehicles to limits far beyond normal driving. At its Michigan proving grounds, Ford subjects its vehicles to brutal conditions. The Silver Creek test track compresses 10 years of suspension stress into just days, and testing goes on in temperatures ranging from 40 below zero to 120 degrees. Before it gets to you, Ford makes sure your vehicle can handle far more than the streets of Conshohocken have got in store for it. Toyota tests its vehicles too — but not quite like this. We think this explains why Ford owners report so few unexpected issues. Their cars were built to handle much more than daily driving will ever throw at them. Longevity and Maintenance Want to know about true reliability? Look at vehicles with over 100,000 miles on the clock. A huge number of Ford F-150 trucks sold in the last 20 years are still going strong despite the mileage they've racked up — that matches or beats Toyota's famous longevity. Maintenance costs tell an interesting story, too. Toyota used to have a clear advantage here, but that's not true anymore, with 5-year maintenance costs between similar models, such as the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4, now almost identical. We see customers trading in Fords with 200,000 miles or more that still run smoothly. That's real proof that these vehicles last and that those drastic tests aren't for nothing — when it comes to extreme conditions, Ford's engineering makes the difference. Technology Reliability Cars today are rolling computers, where tech reliability matters just as much as the durability of mechanical parts. Ford's SYNC system has become one of the most stable and user-friendly systems around, with a longer development background than Toyota's Entune. Ford also jumped on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration earlier than Toyota, showing its commitment to keeping you connected. This matters because you interact with these systems every day. Ford aggressively updates its software, too, giving you a tech experience that actually improves over time instead of feeling outdated after a few years. Customer Satisfaction Engineering specs only tell part of the story — when it comes to reliability, owner experiences reveal the truth. Recent J.D. Power studies show Ford vehicles score higher than Toyota in initial quality. Even more telling are the long-term responses. Our customers often tell us how surprised they are by their Ford's reliability — they expected good but got great. This real-world feedback confirms that Ford reliability is the real deal. Protection You Can Count On Ford stands behind their vehicles with comprehensive warranty coverage. Every new Ford comes with a solid 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection plan. Need more coverage? Ford offers optional protection plans that extend up to 8 years or 150,000 miles. Their roadside assistance runs 5 years or 60,000 miles, giving you peace of mind wherever you drive. Ford's extended service plans, called Ford Protect, are tailored to your needs. Select the plan that is right for you when buying your new Ford. Make the Reliable Choice With John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken The reliability gap between Ford and Toyota hasn't just narrowed — in many important ways, Ford has taken the lead. Through dedicated engineering, extensive testing, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Ford vehicles now offer the dependable performance that today's drivers demand. Your new Ford is even more affordable than you think. Check in with our finance team to get pre-qualified with an online application. To experience this reliability revolution firsthand, visit us at John Kennedy Ford Conshohocken. Contact us today to schedule a visit or test-drive and ask our service technicians about the improvements they've witnessed in Ford reliability over the years.

The Ford Expedition is known for its bold performance, spacious interior, and go-anywhere attitude. Whether you're hauling the family across town or heading out for a weekend escape, it's designed to go the distance. But how does it stack up when it comes to long-term reliability? In this guide, we’ll break down reliability scores, maintenance insights, and standout model years—so you can shop with confidence. more New Expedition Inventory How Reliable Is the Ford Expedition? The Expedition continues to be a top contender in the full-size SUV category. According to RepairPal, it earns a 3 out of 5 for reliability, putting it in the upper-middle tier of its class. J.D. Power also gave the 2024 model a solid score of 75 out of 100 for quality and reliability. Here’s the good news: when properly maintained, Expeditions can last well beyond 200,000 miles. Recent models—especially from 2018 onward—have improved in build quality and performance, earning spots on iSeeCars' list of longest-lasting SUVs. That means more miles, more memories, and fewer worries. Maintenance & Ownership Costs Like most full-size SUVs, the Expedition does come with some expected maintenance costs—averaging around $861 per year. That’s slightly above the segment average, but not by much. The silver lining? Owners typically experience fewer unscheduled repairs compared to competitors, with most major fixes needed only once every five years. Stay on top of routine service, and the Expedition proves to be a smooth, low-stress ride year after year. What Are the Most Common Issues? No vehicle is without flaws, but Ford has continued to address common concerns over the years. Older models (especially 2003–2006) were more prone to issues like ignition coil or sensor malfunctions. In contrast, newer models—particularly those from 2018 to 2019—have far fewer reported problems and have earned top safety ratings. If you're shopping used, aim for those standout years to enjoy all the perks with minimal hassle. How Does the Expedition Compare? When measured against rivals like the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, the Expedition holds its own. It may not always top reliability charts, but it shines in areas like interior tech, towing power, and off-road capabilities. It’s this well-rounded versatility that keeps families and adventurers coming back. Safe, Strong, and Smart Beyond reliability, safety is a top priority—and the Expedition delivers. Later-generation models boast strong crash-test ratings and come equipped with advanced driver-assist features, including: Adaptive cruise control Lane-keeping assist Blind-spot monitoring Combine those with a reinforced frame and modern safety engineering, and you’ve got a full-size SUV designed with your family's protection in mind. Top Ford Expedition Years to Look For Shopping used? Here are some of the best model years to consider: 2017 – Low repair costs and solid dependability 2018–2019 – Excellent reliability scores and modern safety tech 2010 – Fewer recalls and consistent performance Try to avoid older models from 2003–2006, which had more frequent issues. Keep Your Expedition Running Like New The Expedition thrives when properly cared for. Here are a few simple maintenance tips to help maximize your investment: Change the oil every 3,000–5,000 miles Use high-quality synthetic oil—especially for EcoBoost engines Rotate tires and inspect the battery every 6,000 miles Replace the air filter and check hoses around every 15,000 miles Pro tip: If you're buying used, a pre-purchase inspection is always a smart move. Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Ford Expedition? Absolutely—especially if you're looking for a capable SUV that balances space, strength, and long-term value. While earlier models had a few rough spots, today’s Expeditions are built to perform and made to last. With the right care, it’s a vehicle that can serve your family well for years to come. Ready to experience it for yourself? Browse our current Ford Expedition inventory and schedule your test drive today!