Are you shopping for an SUV for driving in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania? If so, you may be wondering, “Are Ford SUVs reliable?” Reliability matters if you travel on I-76 daily or take your kids to weekend activities through Pennsylvania’s unpredictable weather. Ford’s reputation has fluctuated over the years, so keep reading as we discuss the best Ford SUVs from the brand’s 2025 lineup to help you find the ideal model for your needs.
Ford SUV Reliability Rankings for 2025
Ford reliability varies widely for the brand’s SUVs. The Bronco Sport is the most reliable Ford SUV, with a score of 88 out of 100 from J.D. Power. The Explorer follows with 87 out of 100, while the Escape scores 85 out of 100. These numbers put Ford’s best models among trusted competitors.
The Bronco sits in the middle with a score of 76 out of 100, while the Expedition sits at 77 out of 100. Ford models in 2025 averaged 208 issues per 100 vehicles, representing a slight improvement over the previous year. The Escape needs 0.31 unplanned repairs yearly versus the 0.4 for typical compact SUVs, with an 11% major repair probability.
Model-By-Model Reliability Analysis
Consumer Reports’ data predicts that the 2025 Escape should outperform the average new car. It ranks No. 11 among Hybrid SUVs, scoring 8.3 out of 10, and 68% of consumers recommend the 2025 model, according to Kelley Blue Book.
The 2025 Explorer earns an 8.7 out of 10 from U.S. News, ranking it at No. 14 in the Midsize SUV category. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives it a five-star overall safety rating. Many older models have few reported issues. The 2009 model is one of the best years for the Ford Explorer, with an 85 out of 100 J.D. Power score, demonstrating that newer isn’t always better.
J.D. Power named the 2024 Bronco Sport a Quality Award winner. This award recognizes vehicles with the fewest owner-reported problems per 100 owners in the first 90 days.
Best and Worst Model Years for Ford SUVs
It’s vital to choose wisely from Ford model years to avoid significant reliability issues. For Escapes, target models from 2023 and newer. If you’re looking for an older model, those from 2015 through 2018 with a 2.5-liter engine are particularly notable. J.D. Power gave the 2018 Escape an 83 out of 100 reliability score and the 2017 model an 86 out of 100, making both excellent used options.
Problem years for the Explorer include the 2002 model, which has 3,620 NHTSA complaints. Car Complaints reports that the 2002 Explorer is one of the worst vehicles on record, primarily due to transmission failures.
Common Ford SUV Problems and Solutions
Ford SUVs have several common trouble spots. Older Explorers often experience transmission problems, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and acceleration noises. Ignition coil and spark plug issues in Escapes cause rough idling, misfires, and poor fuel economy.
Edges (2015-2018) and Escapes (2013-2019) can have EcoBoost coolant leaks. Broncos and Explorers (2021-2022) may develop noisy intake valve problems. Electrical issues affect Escapes and Explorers, affecting power windows, dash displays, and door locks.
Many of these problems have affordable fixes. According to RepairPal, ignition coils typically cost between $114 and $178 to replace. Engine hesitation often stems from faulty exhaust gas recirculation valves, which cost between $432 and $579 to replace. Transmission repairs can be costly, averaging between $3,000 and $7,000 for a 2002 Explorer.
Ford SUV Maintenance and Ownership Costs
Ford models vary significantly in terms of maintenance and ownership costs. The Escape costs the least to maintain at $2,959 in the first five years of ownership, with the Bronco Sport close behind at $2,971, according to CarEdge. The Explorer averages a cost of $3,123 during the first five years, while the Bronco costs $3,319. The Expedition tops the chart at $3,391.
Ford gives you decent protection with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. Bronco owners typically spend $100 to $300 per maintenance visit, though if you’re an off-road warrior, you should budget extra for specialized checks after trail runs. For added peace of mind, the Ford Protect plan can extend coverage up to 10 years or 175,000 miles beyond your factory warranty’s end.
Ford vs. Competitors: Reliability Comparison
Ford faces stiff competition in the reliability game. Subaru now wears the reliability crown, surpassing Lexus and Toyota for the 2025 model year. Consumer Reports ranks Toyota third, while Honda comes in fourth. Buick leads the American models, with Ford close behind.
Vehicle type plays a significant role in reliability stats. SUVs average a 49 out of 100 reliability score compared to 60 out of 100 for cars, while pickups are last at 36 out of 100. The Edge beats its rivals — the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Chevrolet Equinox — in terms of technology and performance, while the Bronco outshines the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner in key reliability metrics.
Expert Tips for Maximizing Ford SUV Reliability
To ensure your vehicle’s reliability, follow the recommended maintenance schedule and use factory-approved parts and fluids. Get multipoint inspections with every oil change, check the brakes regularly, and don’t ignore the cooling system. Change the engine air filter every 30,000 miles, and after 100,000 miles, replace the spark plugs and inspect the drive belts. Pay extra attention to transmission fluid changes, software updates, and battery maintenance.
If you love heading to off-road trails near Conshohocken, your SUV’s suspension needs special attention. Regular inspections and thorough cleaning after trail days will save you money in the long term. These extra checks may cost more, but they’re far cheaper than having to replace suspension components because mud and grit have worn them down.
Choose a Reliable Ford SUV for Your Conshohocken Drive
Are you ready to explore the Ford SUV lineup? Stop by John Kennedy Ford of Conshohocken and take your preferred model for a test drive. Our team knows what works for local drivers and can help match you with the right Ford SUV for your lifestyle. Contact us today to see why so many Conshohocken families trust Ford SUVs for their daily adventures.
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