2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Honda Pilot
Reliability Side-by-Side
2021
Ford Explorer
Grade C+
A tempting family hauler, but its known mechanical and electrical gremlins make it a moderate reliability gamble.
2021
Honda Pilot
Grade A-
A supremely practical and mechanically solid family hauler, though its tech stack might test your patience occasionally.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2021 Honda Pilot
Score 88/100 vs 68/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2021 Honda Pilot
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2021 Honda Pilot
$450-650
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2021 Ford Explorer | 2021 Honda Pilot★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $600-900 (routine service, oil changes, tire rotations) | $450-650 |
| Moderate Repairs | $1,000-3,000 (e.g., infotainment module, suspension components, transmission solenoid repair) occasionally, but potentially more frequently. | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., power tailgate, VCM-related spark plugs) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 21 / 28 | 20 / 27 |
| MSRP (New) | $33,470 | $32,250 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2021 Ford Explorer
Transmission System
20,000-70,000 mi
Electrical & Infotainment
5,000-45,000 mi
Interior & Exterior Build Quality
10,000-50,000 mi
2021 Honda Pilot
Infotainment/Electrical System
5,000-60,000 mi
Power Tailgate Mechanism
30,000-80,000 mi
Engine (VCM-related)
60,000-120,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
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Editorial Take
The 2021 Ford Explorer and 2021 Honda Pilot represent two of the most popular choices in the competitive mid-size, three-row SUV segment. Both vehicles cater to growing families seeking versatility, passenger comfort, and ample cargo space, making them frequent cross-shop contenders. Buyers considering the Explorer might prioritize a sportier driving experience and a wider range of powerful engine options, including a performance-oriented ST model and a fuel-efficient hybrid. Conversely, those leaning towards the Pilot are often looking for proven reliability, a consistently comfortable ride, and a highly practical, user-friendly interior layout. The key decision factors typically revolve around driving dynamics, overall fuel economy, interior spaciousness, and long-term ownership costs. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2021 FORD EXPLORER: 1. 10-Speed Automatic Transmission Behavior: Some owners of the 2020-2022 Explorer models have reported rough or clunky shifts, particularly at lower speeds or when downshifting. While often remedied by software updates, it was a common early complaint for this new transmission. 2. Electrical Glitches: Infotainment system freezing, unresponsive touchscreens, or issues with various driver-assist sensors have been noted, though less frequently than transmission complaints. These often require software resets or minor component replacements. 2021 HONDA PILOT: 1. 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation: While generally smooth, some upper-trim Pilot owners (which utilize the 9-speed) have reported occasional hesitation or jerky shifts at low speeds, particularly between first and second gears. This is typically not a widespread failure but rather a characteristic of the transmission’s programming. 2. Infotainment System Freezing: Similar to many modern vehicles, the Pilot's Display Audio infotainment system has been known to occasionally freeze or become unresponsive, often resolved by a system restart or a software update.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When purchased new, the 2021 Ford Explorer offered a slightly lower starting price for its base model compared to the Pilot, but its upper trims could be significantly more expensive, especially the ST and Platinum. On the used market, both vehicles tend to hold their value reasonably well, but the Honda Pilot typically demonstrates slightly stronger resale value over time due to its reputation for reliability. Insurance costs for both vehicles are generally comparable for mid-size SUVs, but the Pilot may be marginally less expensive to insure due to its slightly lower average repair costs and less powerful standard engine. Maintenance costs for the Honda Pilot are often cited as being lower than the Ford Explorer for routine service, a common characteristic of the Honda brand. Ford parts and service are readily available, but the Explorer's more complex engine options (especially the twin-turbo V6 and hybrid system) could lead to higher specialized repair costs outside of warranty.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2021 Ford Explorer
Products for 2021 Honda Pilot
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