2014 Ford Explorer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2014 Ford Explorer
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:rear.
- Outscores the 2013 Ford Explorer by 4 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: electric power-assist steering (epas) (critical severity).
The 2014 Ford Explorer at a glance
- Is the 2014 Ford Explorer reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2014 Ford Explorer 72/100 (grade C-), categorized as moderate risk. A comfortable family SUV that requires careful pre-purchase scrutiny and a budget for potential high-cost repairs.
- Should I buy a used 2014 Ford Explorer?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2014 Ford Explorer. While the 2014 Ford Explorer can be an appealing family SUV with its comfort and capability, its significant and well-documented reliability concerns, particularly with the EPAS, transmission, and 3.5L engine's water pump, make it a high-risk purchase. A very thorough pre-purchase inspection and a dedicated repair f…
- Which Ford Explorer years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: Later 5th Generation (2016-2019) models generally addressed some MFT issues and improved overall component reliability.. Years to avoid: Early 5th Generation (2011-2013) models due to more prevalent EPAS and MyFord Touch problems. The 2014 model is still highly susceptible to these issues..
- What are the most common problems with the 2014 Ford Explorer?
- The top failure points on the 2014 Ford Explorer are Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) (typically around 60,000-100,000 miles), Transmission (6F-50/55) (typically around 70,000-120,000 miles), 3.5L V6 Water Pump (typically around 80,000-120,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2014 Ford Explorer?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2014 Ford Explorer is around 30,000. Early Warning Zone — At this mileage, owners might start experiencing the first signs of MyFord Touch glitches or premature brake wear. Keep an eye out for any unusual noises from the rear suspension.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2014 Ford Explorer?
The 2014 Ford Explorer is a spacious and comfortable family hauler, but it demands caution. While it offers good capability and styling, owners frequently encounter notable electrical gremlins, potential steering system failures, and specific engine and transmission weaknesses that can lead to costly repairs if not properly managed or inspected.
While the 2014 Ford Explorer can be an appealing family SUV with its comfort and capability, its significant and well-documented reliability concerns, particularly with the EPAS, transmission, and 3.5L engine's water pump, make it a high-risk purchase. A very thorough pre-purchase inspection and a dedicated repair f…
Best Model Years
Later 5th Generation (2016-2019) models generally addressed some MFT issues and improved overall component reliability.
Years to Avoid
Early 5th Generation (2011-2013) models due to more prevalent EPAS and MyFord Touch problems. The 2014 model is still highly susceptible to these issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Spacious and comfortable interior for long trips
- Available AWD system provides confident all-weather traction
- Robust 3.5L V6 (naturally aspirated) engine if water pump is proactively addressed
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 Ford Explorer, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Failure of the EPAS system module or motor leads to complete loss of power steering, making the vehicle very difficult to steer. This is a common and serious safety concern, often requiring replacement of the entire steering rack assembly.
Owners report harsh shifts, shuddering, delayed engagement, and occasional complete transmission failure. The lead frame inside the transmission is a known weak point, causing erratic shifting and 'limp home' mode activation.
The water pump on the 3.5L V6 engine is internally mounted, making replacement labor-intensive and expensive. Failure can lead to coolant mixing with engine oil, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage if not caught immediately.
2014 Ford Explorer Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Ford Explorer most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
At this mileage, owners might start experiencing the first signs of MyFord Touch glitches or premature brake wear. Keep an eye out for any unusual noises from the rear suspension.
Mid-Life Checkpoint
This mileage often brings the start of more significant issues. Transmission shudder may become noticeable, and the EPAS system might begin to show intermittent warning signs. This is a critical point for detailed inspections.
Elevated Risk Zone
The probability of high-cost repairs significantly increases here. Internal water pump failure on the 3.5L V6, transmission lead frame issues, and EPAS failure are all common concerns. Proactive assessment is crucial.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, the likelihood of major powertrain component failures (engine, transmission) becomes substantial without meticulous maintenance history. Expect wear and tear on most major systems.
2014 Ford Explorer Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Ford Explorer on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., suspension work, MFT module, transmission service)
How Long Does the 2014 Ford Explorer Last?
Seek out models with under 75,000 miles if possible, as this slightly reduces the immediate likelihood of EPAS or internal water pump failure. However, even lower mileage examples still require careful vetting and budgeting for potential future issues.
What 2014 Ford Explorer Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Spacious and comfortable for families on long journeys
- Smooth ride quality, especially on the highway
- Available powerful V6 engines (including EcoBoost options)
- Good cargo capacity with folded seats for versatility
Common Frustrations
- MyFord Touch system is frequently unresponsive, buggy, and frustrating to use
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6 engines and AWD
- Limited rear visibility due to thick pillars and small rear window
- Third-row access is somewhat cramped for adults
Who Should Buy the 2014 Ford Explorer?
Best For
- Families needing abundant space and comfort on a budget
- Buyers who prioritize ride quality over ultimate long-term reliability
- Individuals comfortable with DIY maintenance or a healthy repair fund
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking appliance-like reliability with minimal unexpected repairs
- Anyone with a tight budget for maintenance and unforeseen issues
How the 2014 Ford Explorer Compares to Rivals
The Explorer offers a commanding presence and comfortable ride, often at a lower price than its Japanese rivals, but it consistently trails them in long-term dependability, particularly regarding its steering, transmission, and infotainment systems.
More Reliable Than
- Dodge Journey (significantly poorer reliability, especially powertrain)
- Nissan Pathfinder (2013-2016) (due to widespread CVT failures)
- Chevrolet Traverse (older models 2009-2017) (engine and transmission issues)
Comparable To
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (similar level of electrical and transmission quirks)
- Acura MDX (older models, some transmission issues)
NHTSA Recalls
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SUSPENSION:REAR
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Explorer vehicles. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
WHEELS:HUB
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain Wheel Hub Bearing assemblies, part number HB5Z-1104-C, incorrectly listed as being for installation on the rear axles of 2011-2017 Ford Explorer 4X2 vehicles. These bearings assemblies were manufactured without a self retention feature, possibly resulting in the separation of the wheel or wheel end.
What breaks on the 2014 Ford Explorer?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
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Ford Explorer by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Ford Explorer. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2014 Ford Explorer
Parts and accessories matched to your 2014 Ford Explorer
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Where the 2014 Ford Explorer report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 2014 Ford Explorer for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Ford Explorer. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Recommended Reading for the Ford Explorer
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Ford Explorer Common Problems and Repair Costs
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How Long Does a Ford Explorer Last? (Real Owner Data)
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