2018 Ford Explorer Safety Report
2018 Ford Explorer: High crash test ratings, but significant recalls and complaints for structural integrity and suspension issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Ford Explorer
Reliability Score
The 2018 Ford Explorer receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Ford Explorer
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Ford Explorer:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-Pillar Trim Detachment Retention clips for the A-pillar trim may not be properly engaged, leading to detachment and becoming a road hazard, increasing crash risk. This is covered by NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Rear Suspension Toe Link Fracture Rear suspension toe links may fracture, resulting in a loss of steering control and increasing the risk of a crash. This is covered by NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V101000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Engine Block Heater Electrical Short An electrical short circuit in the engine block heater can increase the risk of a fire. This is covered by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Pressure Sensor Leak Due to an assembly error, the fuel pressure sensor may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source. This is covered by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Roof Rail Cover Detachment Retention pins could loosen and allow the roof rail covers to detach from the vehicle, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Ford Explorer:
The most frequent complaints, 239 out of 670, relate to structural issues, primarily involving exterior trim detachment like A-pillar and roof rail covers, which are also subjects of recalls.
53 complaints are related to the engine, with some reports of rough idle, check engine lights, and potential cylinder head issues.
24 complaints mention power train issues, including problems with acceleration and transmission.
13 complaints are for suspension, specifically rear toe link issues, which are also covered by a critical safety recall.
18 complaints are for the electrical system, including issues like horn malfunction, airbag indicator problems, and infotainment system glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ford Explorer
Is the 2018 Ford Explorer safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Ford Explorer received excellent 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash ratings, and a 4-star rollover rating, indicating strong crash protection. However, it has 670 total complaints, 12 crashes, 6 fires, and 12 injuries reported, along with 6 safety recalls addressing significant issues like rear suspension toe link fractures, A-pillar trim detachment, and fire risks from the engine block heater and fuel system. While crashworthy, its reliability regarding certain components is a concern.
What are common problems with the 2018 Ford Explorer?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Ford Explorer are related to 'STRUCTURE' (239 complaints), often involving detaching A-pillar trim and roof rail covers. Other common problems include engine issues (53 complaints), power train malfunctions (24 complaints), and suspension problems (13 complaints), particularly concerning the rear toe links.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Ford Explorer?
Yes, the 2018 Ford Explorer has 6 recalls. These include recalls for fracturing rear suspension toe links, electrical shorts in the engine block heater that can cause fires, detaching A-pillar trim, detaching roof rail covers, improperly assembled front seat recliner mechanisms, and fuel pressure sensor leaks that can increase fire risk.
What should I know about the 2018 Ford Explorer's crash test performance?
The 2018 Ford Explorer performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for frontal crash protection, 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating a high level of occupant protection in these scenarios.
Are there fire risks associated with the 2018 Ford Explorer?
Yes, there are reported fire risks. NHTSA data shows 6 fires reported for the 2018 Ford Explorer. Additionally, there are two specific recalls addressing fire hazards: one for an electrical short circuit in the engine block heater and another for a fuel pressure sensor that may leak fuel, both of which can increase the risk of fire.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but numerous recalls and complaints, particularly for structural and suspension components, potential buyers should ensure all 6 recalls have been addressed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on structural integrity and suspension components.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Ford Explorer
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Ford Explorer. The data includes 670 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 12 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Ford Explorer an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.