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Ford · Full-Size SUV · 2019–2024

Ford Explorer 6

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Engine Overview

The Ford Explorer 6 is available with one engine variant at 457 hp.

3.0L EcoBoost V6 · Benziner Plug-in-Hybrid· 457 PS
2019 2024
Be Careful 7 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Ford 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Benziner Plug-in-Hybrid, 457 PS) has the BQWA (3.0L EcoBoost V6) — rated: "Be Careful", 7 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Recall: Rear axle bolt can fracture (2018-2020)

Ford recalled over 250,000 Explorers worldwide (model years 2018–2020). A rear axle mounting bolt could fracture, leading to a risk of rolling away and loss of control. A software update and mechanical reinforcement were the fix.

Symptoms: Loud noises and vibrations when accelerating, vehicle rolls away despite being in Park.
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 Low
✖Recall: Propshaft can separate (2022-2023)

Ford recalled Explorer vehicles of model years 2020–2021 (NHTSA 23V675000) because the propshaft mounting bolts could loosen and the shaft could separate from the drivetrain — resulting in loss of drive and a risk of rolling away.

Symptoms: Vibrations and heavy noises from the drivetrain, sudden loss of drive, vehicle rolls away despite being in Park.
Ad Ford Explorer prop shaft VIprop shaftn-Schraube recall Ford Explorer
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
2,035 complaints · 2019–2024
Powertrain
617 ⚠ 10
Other
364 ⚠ 10
Electrical
269 ⚠ 7
Body Structure
211 ⚠ 1
Engine
193 ⚠ 4

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (617 complaints)
⚠ Other (364 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (269 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Ford Explorer 6 (2019–2024) — 7 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Electronics, Gearbox, Brakes.

Explorer (BQWA, 2019–2024) — Be Careful: Twin-Turbo System Wear, DPF and Injector Combined Failure, Head Gasket Failed — Coolant Loss. Power: 457 PS.

What to watch out for with the Ford Explorer? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Ford Explorer 6 have? +
The Ford Explorer 6 has 7 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Ford Explorer 6? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: BQWA (3.0L EcoBoost V6). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the BQWA (3.0L EcoBoost V6).
Which Ford Explorer 6 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Ford Explorer 6 — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} The Ford Explorer Plug-in Hybrid with 457 hp system output is surprisingly dynamic for its size. A modern muscle SUV.
Is the Ford Explorer 6 worth buying used? +
The Ford Explorer 6 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Ford Explorer 6? +
The Ford Explorer 6 is available with engine variants from 457 to 457 hp. Petrol: BQWA (3.0L EcoBoost V6).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee