2025 Ford Explorer Safety Report

The 2025 Ford Explorer presents a mixed safety picture, demonstrating excellent crash test performance but a concerning number of recalls and emerging complaint patterns for a new model year. NHTSA awarded the vehicle a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests, and a 4-star rollover rating. This indicates strong occupant protection in tested collision scenarios. However, the vehicle has already accumulated 17 recalls, which is a high number for a new model year, addressing critical issues ranging from potential loss of motive power due to engine defects and EGR valve issues, to improperly secured seat belt anchor bolts and brake caliper bolts. These recalls highlight significant manufacturing and design flaws that could compromise safety if not addressed. Complaint data, though relatively low at 69 total for a new model, reveals several concerning patterns. The 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category leads with 7 complaints, often detailing catastrophic mechanical and electronic failures, sudden loss of motive power, and issues with driver-assistance systems like Blue Cruise. The 'POWER TRAIN' category, with 5 complaints, includes instances of uncommanded shifts to neutral at highway speeds and transmission slipping. 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (4 complaints) and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (4 complaints) also show recurring issues, such as windshield defects, non-functional rear window buttons, and persistent 12V battery drain. The 6 reported crashes and 2 injuries, despite 0 fatalities, underscore the potential severity of these issues. Specific recall details further elaborate on the breadth of potential problems. Recalls address critical safety components such as the rearview camera (loss of image), seat belts (improperly secured anchor bolts), engine (loss of drive power due to EGR valve or connecting rod defects), exterior lighting (headlight turning incorrectly, trailer tail light failure), windshield visibility (air bubbles), trailer hitches (loose bolts), and service brakes (improperly tightened caliper bolts). The high volume and critical nature of these recalls, coupled with early complaint trends, suggest that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, there are significant reliability and manufacturing quality concerns that could impact real-world safety.

Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and emerging complaint patterns for a new model year, potential buyers should ensure all 17 recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty, as early reliability appears to be a concern despite excellent crash test performance.