MODEL
Ford Explorer
NHTSA safety across every Ford Explorer model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Ford Explorer we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2019 at 85 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2023 at 71. 126 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Ford Explorer is a three-row midsize SUV that has anchored the family hauler segment for decades. Aimed squarely at households needing flexible seating and everyday practicality, the 2019 through 2025 generation competes in one of the most hotly contested spaces in the American market. Its combination of mainstream appeal and Ford's broad dealer network makes it one of the most scrutinized vehicles on the road today.
The Ford Explorer's safety picture across the 2019 to 2025 model years is genuinely mixed, and shoppers deserve a clear-eyed look at the full data set before signing anything. On crash-test performance, the Explorer shows real strength at its best. The highest NHTSA Safety Index recorded across these years is 85 out of 100, placing that version in the Strong band. Frontal and side star ratings reach 5 out of 5 in the best-tested configurations, though rollover protection settles at 4 out of 5, a common limitation for taller, heavier SUVs and worth noting for any family that prioritizes that specific risk. Where the Explorer's record becomes harder to defend is in its recall volume. With 126 recalls spanning just six model years, the frequency is notably high for a mainstream family vehicle and reflects a pattern of engineering and manufacturing corrections that Ford has had to address repeatedly across this generation. Owner complaints also carry weight here. The 2,252 complaints on file include 79 alleged crashes, 94 reported injuries, and 19 fire-related allegations. These are unverified claims, not confirmed incidents, but the sheer volume warrants attention. The Explorer remains a capable, popular choice, but buyers should check the NHTSA recall database for their specific VIN before purchase and stay current on any open recalls after ownership.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Explorer as a well-rounded three-row SUV with broad family appeal, praising its spacious interior and driving composure for the segment. Most acknowledge it as a competitive mainstream choice while noting that the ownership experience can vary, and some suggest shoppers cross-shop carefully given the competitive midsize SUV landscape.
- The Explorer's best NHTSA Safety Index of 85 out of 100 applies to a specific model year in this generation. Scores vary across years, so check the rating for the exact year you are considering rather than assuming all years perform equally.
- With 126 recalls across the 2019 to 2025 model years, the Explorer carries an unusually high recall count for its segment. Always run the VIN through the NHTSA recall lookup tool to confirm whether any open recalls remain unaddressed on a specific vehicle.
- Rollover protection is rated 4 out of 5 stars even in the best-tested years, which is typical for midsize SUVs but is a meaningful data point for buyers who prioritize that risk category, particularly those who frequently carry full passenger loads.
- The 2,252 owner complaints on file include 19 fire-related allegations and 94 reported injuries. These are unverified claims, but the volume and nature of the allegations suggest shoppers should review complaint details on NHTSA's website for the specific model year they are targeting.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Ford Explorer with 32 recalls.